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Cup Final Special – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

Friday 17th May

Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final

Beginning another long weekend of cup final football action this Friday evening with a trip to Newmarket Town FC’s, Tristal Stadium to watch the final of this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup, between the top two in the Women’s Premiership, runners-up Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds play league winners, Whittlesey Athletic Ladies going for an impressive treble having won the Women’s Invitation Final just over a week ago.

The Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup contested by the sides playing across all three divisions in the county, this time around the final featuring the two sides who have proved to be strongest in the top flight within that set-up. The competition proudly sponsored by The Alan Boswell Group that has been involved with the league in Cambridgeshire in various guises for close to 20 years now.

This evenings prize.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds one of the longest established sides within the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership under the leadership of Ashley Hunt and Ryan Lee have grown throughout the season finishing strongly with 7 wins in a row to pull 12 points clear of the pack to secure 2nd spot behind winners, Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Both are to step back from the dugout after this evenings final with the club bringing in Shane Lebbon to manage the side, has a wealth of experience coaching within the woman’s game in Cambridgeshire having previously been with Newmarket Town Women, coaching at all levels, developing and bringing youth players into the 1st team. 

Fulbourn with a strong attacking quartet, scoring plenty of goals between them this campaign, Ellie Woodley on target to score 41 goals so far this season in 21 games. Captain, Marie Stubbings, often amongst the goals has 21 to her name while Ebony Crook and Eve Seyf has scored 18 and 14 respectfully. Face a tough test in this evenings final having lost heavily to Whittlesey in both there matches this season.

They aren’t the only club to lose heavily to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies this season however, with the club reforming it’s women’s side this season, pulling in players from a strong talent pool in the Peterborough area, easily equipped for tier 6. Can’t enter at that level however and have to be promoted from a county league, going straight into the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, hit the ground running and never looked back a 100% record on their way to the league title after 16 of there 18 league matches, strong in the cup competitions too as they proved in the final of the Women’s Invitation Cup final last Thursday, beating Cambridge United WFC’s U18s 2-1 to make it a league and cup double.

Emma Pollard opening the scoring for Whittlesey back then has enjoyed another 50 plus goals season in front of goal, 58 last season as she helped Cardea FC Ladies to a league and cup double too, has 52 this season in just 15 matches. Tara Parker with 15 goals and Taylor dean also into double figures on 10. A cup hangover (maybe) saw them lose their 100% record last Sunday, a 1-0 defeat away to Cambridge University Women. Tonight though a chance to complete the treble.

 Road to the Final

 Both sides receiving a bye in the 1st round of the League Cup. The goals flowing for both in the 2nd road. Fulbourn especially as thy were at home taking on Division Three side Cambridge Rangers WFC Reserves. Ellie Woodley alone firing home 7 goals. Ebony Crook and Marie Stubbings getting 4 apiece. with a brace each for Eve Seyf and Katie Luddy in a 19-0 romp. Whittlesey at home against fellow Premiership side Cambridge University Women, Emma Pollard smashing home 4 goals, Jenna Nairn was to net a brace with Hannah Murphy, Taylor Dean and captain, Leah Barnes all getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.

Fulbourn continuing their goal scoring form in the League Cup as they took on Chatteris Town Lillie Ladies, from Division Two in the 3rd Round of the competition. Woodley and Crook both scoring a hat-trick, surpassed by Stubbings who grabbed another 4 goal haul with Hollie Turner also on target in an 11-0 win. Whittlesey handed the away win having been drawn against Division Three side, Willingham Wolves Women.

Into the last 8 of the League Cup, Fulbourn on the road this time taking on Division Two side, Waterbeach Colts WFC. Their attackers continuing their strong form in front of goal, Crook getting herself a hat-trick with Seyf firing in a brace, Woodley scoring too in a 6-1 victory. Whittlesey away to in the quarter finals up against Division Two title chasing Godmanchester Town Ladies, a rare game where Pollard didn’t score, they progressed into the semi-finals courtesy to a 2-0 win, Taylor Dean and Jenna Nairn with the goals.

Into the semi-finals an all Premiership line-up, Fulbourn at home taking on Newmarket Town Women Development, Woodley’s goals seeing them into the final, scoring a hat-trick to advance with a 3-1 win. Whittlesey at home too taking on Leverington Sports Ladies, who had improved over the 2nd half of the season pulling away from the bottom of the table. Goalless at the break, Whittlesey would break the deadlock in the 2nd half to into win the game 3-0 with goals from Murphy, Pollard and Megan Strickland.

Newmarket Town FC’s Tristal Stadium hosting some big matches this weekend, not only this evening’s Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup Final, but a huge game for the men’s first team on Saturday as they take on Mulbarton Wanderers in the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division Play-off final. Onto Sunday the ground hosting this season’s ERWFL Finals Day. The ground featuring a state of the art cork based artificial playing surface. A seated stand on one side beside the clubhouse and changing rooms with the bar and kitchen hatch open. A warm evening, dry with a few clouds around but no rain likely.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Julie Brown, Nat Wells, Seema Grewal, Jess Anderson, Jess Adams, Mollie Turner, Dani Quinn, Marie Stubbings, Ebony Crook, Eve Seyf & Ellie Woodley. Subs – Rachel Fallow, Sarah Bodger, Gaby Gallegos Garrido & Amy Smith.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies starting XI – Zoe Shepherd, Megan Strickland, Maisie Homden, Hannah Johnson, Alice MacNicol (C), Hannah Murphy, Jenna Nairn, Taylor Dean, Mia Wilson, Tara Parker & Emma Pollard. Subs – Grace Spencer, Katie Barber, Jorja Badcock & Olivia Smith.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  An injury blow for Whittlesey with captain, Leah Barnes out on crutches. Played a big part in there Invitation Cup success, however they do welcome back Hannah Murphy and Hannah Johnson to the starting line up with Jorja Badcock on the bench. Alice MacNicol captaining the side as they get the League Cup final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing an all blue kit. Fulbourn lined up opposite wearing sky blue coloured shirts with claret trim and sleeves, claret shorts and sky blue socks. The ball rolled back to Hannah Johnson in defence, fed up to Jenna Nairn looks to pick out Emma Pollard in attack pulling into the left channel, Jess Adams intercepting the ball for Fulbourn.

Fulbourn looking to press the ball win a series of throw ins on there left looknig to get forwards. Playing the ball into midfield, Hollie Turner into Eve Seyf looks to play Ellie Woodley in behind, MacNicol closing her down to tackle regain possession for Whittlesey. Fulbourn positive pushing on up the right, Seyf combining with Woodley out wide, her cross clipped into the area, cleared by Hannah Johnson for Whittlesey.

Fulbourn’s Eve Seyf with Ellie Woodley

Seyf making a nuisance of herself on the right in attack looking to see the ball into her feet, skip past her marker, turning inside is brought down, winning Fulbourn a free-kick in an inviting position 25 yards out. Ebony Crook over the set-piece, floated the ball in towards the far post, runners closing in however Whittlesey goalkeeper, Zoe Shepherd takes the ball cleanly above her head.

Fulbourn have Whittlesey penned back in their own half as Seema Grewal plays the ball into the middle helped on up to Seyf in attack as captain Marie Stubbings making a move to race in between the centre backs threads the pass on for her to attack, Shephard quickly out of her area gets there in the nick of time to kick the ball clear the ball out for a throw on the right.

For all there forward play at the start of the game Fulbourn have to be wary of the counter attack, Emma Pollard ready and waiting up top for the ball to be cleared into her path, Nairn lifting it into the left channel Pollard, clips it across to the right for Hannah Murphy into the right channel attempts to send, Tara Parker into the box, Adams close on the attacker getting her foot in to stop the ball reaching its target.

Fulbourn quick to turn play around launch the counter attack, Dani Quinn playing the ball forwards Crook left helping it on for Seyf racing in behind the Whittlesey defence into the box the keeper coming to close the angle, Seyf shoots, the ball racing wide of the right post, a corner given the keeper with the merest of touches keeping it out. The corner whipped into the six yard box by Crook, over Quinn jumping central, cleared back out to Crook on the right, sends her cross over.

Whittlesey’s Maisie Homden after Fulbourn’s Ellie Woodley

Parker loosing her boot as she is fouled trying to break clear wide on the left on halfway. Whittlesey bringing players up as the ball is lifted into the top of the Fulbourn box, Quinn heading the ball away. Fulbourn move the ball right Crook over on that side putting it on for Woodley central, in turn playing it forwards into Seyf, close control wriggles her way through the defence into the area, one on one with the keeper as Shephard comes to close her down, stays big as Seyf looks to place her shot past her, the keeper getting her left glove on the ball making a superb save to concede the corner. Curled in near post defended by Maisie Homden. A pause in play with MacNicol down inside the box with a knock, but okay to play on.

Whittlesey goalkeeper, Zoe Shepherd

GOAL! The deadlock is broken, Whittlesey having had to work hard at the back in the opening 10 minutes to keep a lively Fulbourn out hit their opponents on the counter, Nairn playing a great ball into Pollard left channel combines well with Parker in attack the pair playing the ball back and forth making their way forwards Pollard inside to Parker getting the return pass slipping the ball into the box behind the Fulbourn defence for Parker bursting into the area, before smashing her shot into past the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

Tara Parker celebrates after scoring Whittlesey’s opening goal

Two good chances for Fulbourn not taken, Whittlesey clinical in their first meaningful attack open the scoring. Energised now get forwards Nairn combining with Pollard in the middle spots Homden on the move left wing breaking down the wing in behind with the ball, pushed to the by-line, can’t keep her cross in play. Murphy playing the ball onto Taylor Dean, who is fouled inside the Fulbourn half beside the centre circle on the right. Nairn to send the ball long towards the far post, MacNicol up from the back tries to get her head on the ball but can’t quite reach it as it runs behind for the goal kick.

Stubbings putting Woodley in on the right plays the ball down the line for Seyf to attack a race for the ball with Homden the defender seeing the ball out for a corner kick. Crook lifting an in swinging ball in high central, Shephard up well to make a comfortable claim. Fulbourn getting the ball moving in the final 3rd, Seyf feeding the ball out to Woodley wide right this time, looking to take the ball on, Homden with her the full back challenging to win the ball back.

 GOAL! Whittlesey always looking for Pollard up top whenever they regain position and the attacker is always looking to make herself available pulls left as Nairn wins the ball in the middle, picks her out with the past, Pollard racing away down the win, pace to cut back into the area before flashing a ball in across the face of goal, Julie Brown in goal looking to get something on it, the ball deflected into the onrushing Parker for her to turn the ball home for her 2nd of the game 0-2.

Tara parker doubling Whittlesey’s lead

Nairn comes close to putting Pollard through to score Whittlesey’s 3rd moments later lifting the ball into the left channel, Pollard seeing it drop over her shoulder top of the area, ready to latch onto her shot, Brown reacting sharply out to the top of her area, making the blocking save with her legs to deflect the ball away from danger.

GOAL! Whittlesey upping their game midway through the first half winning a corner on the right, players up rom the back, the initial corner lifted into the near post defended cleared out to the right lands at Dean’s feet, blasts the ball back into the box, blocked coming back out to the right a measured cross curled in across the goal the the far post with MacNicol in position to nod the ball down into the back of the net. 0-3.

Alice MacNicol heads Whittlesey into a 3 goal lead

A huge blow to Fulbourn with 2 good chances to take the lead, find themselves 3 goals down in the opening 23 minutes. Whittlesey lively as Murphy finds Dean out wide on the right her cross in towards the top of the area intercepted by Fulbourn’s Jess Anderson. Woodley central threads the ball on for Stubbings looking to break in behind, Johnson having dropped off, having a crucial half yard head start on the attacker getting to the ball first to put out for a throw in the corner. Fulbourn press well to bring themselves a corner.

Played into the near side helped on across the six yard dropping far post, Homden covering the post sees it out for another corner on the right. Crook’s delivery knocked down into the area, Seyf looking to latch onto it central, Murphy charging the ball down for Whittlesey.

Parker fouled on halfway as she looks to break away with the ball. Nairn to play the ball from right to left in towards the far post, Murphy jumping but over the attacker, nevertheless retrieves the ball on the by-line to spin back inside and flash the ball in across the face of the Fulbourn goal. Pollard with the ball at her feet right, Nat Wells sliding in slows her down by Pollard stays on her feet to cut the ball back into the area from the by-line, Parker looking to hit it first time, fires her strike wide.

Stubbings 30 yard out central with Crook to her left the pass into her played forwards with Woodley looking to surge into the box, MacNicol getting in close to prevent the shot, Woodley’s attempt deflected off her legs up over the crossbar.

Nairn winning the ball for Whittlesey central attempts to pick out Pollard pulling into the left channel once again, her touch a little too heavy this time allowing Adams the opportunity to get her foot through the ball before she can take it on. Woodley fouled outside the box on the left for Fulbourn the free kick fired in towards goal, Shepherd reacting late saving the ball with her legs, Whittlesey looing to mobilise a counter attack, Quinn stopping the advance for Fulbourn.

Fulbourn undeterred by falling 3 goals behind still going forwards looking to create something, win a throw high on the right, put into Seyf’s feet turns well to put a cross into the top of the area, Stubbings running in making contact with her knee places the ball wide of the near post. MacNicol just about gets there to tackle Woodley top of the area as Crook looks to play her in on goal.

Nairn strong to win the ball turns to pick out Pollard going left, has Homden on the sprint to get ahead of her on the overlap, Brown has to come racing out of her area to kick the ball clear. Whittlesey press on the right Dean with Wilson a corner kick won, Lifted in near side defended knocked out to the right, Murphy latching onto the shot, the ball fired into the crowded near post area, blocked turned behind for another corner, again defended at the near post back to the corner taker the cross turned over the bar.

Whittlesey bringing of Wilson, send on Katie Barber. Woodley left on for Seyf ahead of her, Johnson on her shoulder to pressure the shot, put straight at the keeper. Seyf getting about the pitch in the final 3rd stealing into the box on the right as the diagonal ball comes into her, can’t dig the shot out of her feet however instead putting the ball in central for Woodley, Whittlesey quickly into her to close the ball down.

Quinn getting up the pitch to win the ball for Fulbourn central plays it forwards into Woodley before making a run to the right, Woodley linking up with Seyf beside her who in turn picks out Quinn wide inside the box, her shot curled in across goal wide at the far post. Fulbourn pressing for a goal late in the first half, Crook on to Woodley left forwards into Seyf looking to race into the box Johnson looking to stay on her shoulder, Seyf gets her shot away looking to go across goal into the bottom corner, Shephard diving down to her left making another fine save getting her gloves on the ball.

Grewal getting forwards on the right picking out Woodley ahead of her turns to release Seyf down the right wing before making a run into the D, Seyf looking to find her with the cross, MacNicol in to close her down the shot blocked taking the sting out of it runs safely through to the keeper.

Pollard’s pace attacking down the right wins Whittlesey a corner, an in swinging delivery across the six yard, MacNicol nodding in down into the mix at the far post, the ball scrambled over the bar. Fulbourn get on the move left Grewal inside for Woodley, running in behind, Johnson looking to stay on her into the box, Shepherd coming the other way to block the ball deflected out to the left, Stubbings looking to race onto it, Strickland sliding in to get to it first clear the threat.

Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 0-3 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  The sides head into the changing rooms at the break with Whittlesey holding a 3-0 advantage. Could have been a very different score line had Fulbourn put away their early chances, the difference between the sides in the first period Whittlesey clinical when they’ve had their chances, making them counter looking a threat on the break. Fulbourn undeterred have kept getting forwards looking for an opportunity to score and have forced goalkeeper, Zoe Shepherd into making some excellent saves. Still a lot of work to do if they are to get themselves into the game 2nd half, will have to come forwards and Whittlesey with the advantage an be patient with Pollard up top ready to spring into action.

The floodlights taking full effect as the sides emerge for the 2nd half. Fulbourn to get the 2nd half underway have changed their keeper, with Rachel Fallow in in place of Brown, Whittlesey immediately into hustle the ball, nick possession to lift the cross field pass out to Pollard on the right, sends it across the top of the area for Homden getting on down the wing, Grewal challenging to get the ball away from danger for Fulbourn.

Homden needing to defend up the other end putting the ball out for a throw as Seyf looking to march on down the wing. The ball taken to the by-line fired in central, Woodley looking to attack it, Strickland clears back to the right for Whittlesey, lifted into the near side right of goal Johnson defending the ball back out wide before the cross is flashed in wide across the face of goal.

Whittlesey’s Hannah Johnson

Fulbourn prepared to push on take on the Whittlesey defence, Stubbings with room in the middle picking out Seyf with her pass on the right, knocking it on down the line, Homden getting across her body to shield the ball out of play for a goal kick. Fulbourn pushed up the ball coming into Wells deep on the left lifts the ball high into the box at the near post, Shepherd up well to take with Seyf closing in.

Fulbourn captain, Marie Stubbings

Stubbings across to put in the challenge on Dean as the Whittlesey forward looks to advance on the right. Again Fulbourn press the ball well in the final 3rd without finding a way through then Whittlesey with a couple of passes forwards spring the counter, Pollard looking to race on with the ball into the left channel, however Anderson gets out to close her down tackles to win the ball back.

Whittlesey’s Taylor Dean

Dean on for Pollard on the right travels with the ball squaring a dangerous ball into the top of the six yard box, a vital touch from Fallow getting her gloves on the ball knocking it down to claim, especially with Barber running in behind the keeper ready to turn the ball home.

Fulbourn goalkeeper, Rachel Fallow

MacNicol down again for Whittlesey, having pulled up a couple of times in the first half, needs to come off this time, Whittlesey sending on Jorja Badcock. Fulbourn pushing on looking to cause problems for the Whittlesey defence winning a throw high on the left the ball flighted into the area, headed away by Johnson. Nairn getting the ball into her feet playing it into Murphy on for parker outside the box right of the D, moves inside looking for room to shoot, Anderson staying on her as Adams closes ranks the moment lost. 

Jess Adams

 Seyf getting on with the ball right side for Fulbourn sends the cross into the box turned behind by Strickland for a corner kick. Flung in near post players up to attack it, knocked on across goal out beyond the far post. Whittlesey dropping back inviting Fulbourn on allowing Quinn and Turner to press higher. Parker back on the cover to clear a Fulbourn free-kick launched up field for Pollard to chase down on the right, her initial cross into the box blocked comes back out to her Wells moving in to close her down Pollard playing the ball off the defender for a corner. Curled into the six yard box from the right, Pollard the player under it at the far post turns her header wide.   

  GOAL! Whittlesey powerful on the counter attack, Nairn seeing what’s ahead of her s she wins the ball back in the middle, lifting her pass up towards the right of the D for Pollard to attack, in a race with Wells, the defender trying to play it back to her keeper, but rushing out the other way they get too close, Fallow slicing the ball inside towards the penalty spot, Pollard reacting faster ducking inside to get onto the ball and side foot it into the empty net 0-4.

Emma Pollard extending Whittlesey’s lead in the 2nd half

  Whittlesey extending their lead midway through the 2nd half, Pollard getting herself on the score sheet. nip in to regain possession high Parker on the ball feeding it up to Pollard, Anderson lunging in to make the tackle. Barber advancing on the right as Whittlesey look to up the tempo comes inside heading for the box, Wells closing her down as Anderson makes the blocking tackle. Dean with Homden up on the left the ball played into the box headed away for a throw in the corner.

 GOAL! The throw in played into Pollard who turns on the ball and breaks into the box, left corner, angles her powerfully hit strike across the keeper into the corner of the net to make it 5. 0-5

 Whittlesey with two quick fire goals from Pollard pulling into a 5 goal lead. Making a change with 20 minutes to play as Dean comes off, Olivia smith on. Fulbourn having pushed on don’t let their heads drop, continue to attack looking for a goal of their own, Quinn letting fly from 20 yards out right of the D sees her shot come back of the post, Fulbourn pushing up winning a corner on the left. Knocked on across goal to the far post running out to Quinn on the angle her shot blasted in blocked by the Whittlesey defence. 

Hannah Murphy

  Turner playing the ball on for Stubbings central in attack looks to twist and turn find a way through the Whittlesey defence, Johnson closing her down. Wells putting the challenge in to put the ball out for a throw on the right as Barber drives down the right wing for Whittlesey. Badcock seeing the ball into her feet in attack central has Barber running past her rolls the ball into her path her 20 yard shot blocked at close range by Anderson. Badcock up with Pollard the ball played into the attacker 20 yards out, puts her shot straight at the keeper. 

  GOAL! Fulbourn awarded a free-kick inside the Whittlesey half to the right of the centre circle the ball floated into the area headed out to the right drops straight to Quinn beyond the far post, puts her foot through the ball and blasts her shot from an acute angle into the back of the net, their endeavour getting them a deserved goal 1-5.

Dani Quinn pulling a goal back for Fulbourn

 10 minutes left on the clock, Fulbourn pulling one goal back scoring against Whittlesey at last but their opponents still have a commanding lead. Wells firing the ball inside to Turner in the middle on for Quinn linking up with Stubbings through the middle, Murphy back to defend for Whittlesey. Nairn’s balls forwards up to Pollard so dangerous, the striker getting on the move, Anderson quick to close her down, nick the ball for Fulbourn. 

Eve Seyf

  Wells coming forwards has Seyf up ahead of her, the ball played on Seyf feeding it to Woodley left of the D, turns playing it across to Crook on the right, Homden cutting out the cross, back with Crook her 2nd attempt behind for a corner kick, the ball dropping in near post headed on across the six yard falling before Seyf, can’t get it out from under her feet before Whittlesey close her down.

 Fulbourn keep going Wells playing the ball up to Seyf left level with the box fires an inviting cross in along the face of the Whittlesey goal, Woodley racing in far post can’t quite get there. For a moment it looked as if Fulbourn had won a penalty, as they attack right t left Stubbings playing the ball into Seyf central is brought down, the foul however right on the line a free-kick awarded nevertheless. The set-piece struck low hitting the wall deflected behind for a corner on the right The delivery teasing flashing in  through the six yard box no one can get a touch.

Megan Strickland

  Seyf, cleaned out by Johnson out wide on the left another free-kick awarded. Fulbourn with the late pressure the ball in to the near post cleared by Strickland for a throw out on the left. The ball put across the top of the area Fulbourn pushing up the wing to get a corner on the right as the game moves into stoppage time, curled in near side, a turn on the ball and shot, the ball blocked on the line back out to the right then fired back in across the face of goal. 

 Whittlesey adsorbing a late Fulbourn push make a double change, Pollard and Nairn coming off, Wilson and Grace Spencer on. Woodley letting the ball roll cross her 30 yards out, sends a shot arrowing in straight at the keeper. Seyf sending a cross into the box from the left attacked at the far post, Homden with the block on the post. The final whistle blows and Whittlesey have done it won a league and cup treble with their newly reformed team.

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 1-5 Whittlesey Athletic Ladies

  An impressive achievement for Whittlesey to win the league and two cup finals. Were clinical on the night putting away their chances. Counter attacking well and working hard at the back pushed back at times. A great effort from Fulbourn never gave up two great chances to take the lead themselves were hit on the counter to concede the opener, Whittlesey upping their game to put two further chances away before the break with goal keeper, Zoe Shephard called into action to keep the clean sheet on a couple of occasions. Fulbourn not prepared to settle back 2nd half gave it a go to try and find away back into the match, Whittlesey could bid their time however wait for the right moment to pounce get up the other end and Pollard was on hand with a quickfire double to put the game beyond doubt Fulbourn remained positive getting the goal their attacking play deserved and never let Whittlesey settle.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, again it’s a fairly straight forward one and too a player that has won a few of these before. A few performances to mention first, for Fulbourn they worked hard up top t find a way through no one more than Eve Seyf who got about the flanks looking to take the ball down create openings unlucky not to score,. Marie Stubbings too covering a good amount of ground to make herself available for the ball and help out in midfield. Dini Quinn making some great runs forwards took her chance well, also tracking back the other way to help the defence. For Whittlesey, Tara Parker was lively up top looking to get into the box on hand to score the opening goals. Zoe Shephard made some vital saves in the first half to keep the Fulbourn out. Jenna Nairn winning the ball played some fantastic passes forwards. The award winner once again Emma Pollard, played a part in all the goals assists and putting two away in the 2nd half. Running into the channels made herself a read outlet throughout.

Emma Pollard with this season’s haul

 Congratulations to Whittlesey Athletic Ladies on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup and for claiming an impressive treble, there aren’t many sides that can claim that.

Whittlesey Athletic Ladies 2023/24v Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup winners

  A good evening out at Newmarket, an entertaining final. Whittlesey strong all season finishing in style one game left to play. Fulbourn with a spirited performance can be proud, gave it there all. Ashley and Ryan leave the team in great shape, improved ready to challenge for honours next season. My thanks to both teams and referee Carlton Joseph for the help with the teams this evening. Back to Newmarket on Sunday for the ERWFL Finals Day, into the final run 5 games to go… 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Eaton Socon Ladies

Sunday 8th October

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

 A return to county league action this Sunday on Women’s Football East with a trip into Cambridgeshire to watch a game from the Women’s Premiership with Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds taking on Eaton Socon Ladies.

 Cambridgeshire like the other county leagues across the East seeing a rise in the number of sides playing as the women’s game continues to grow across the country. The county now featuring 3 divisions with a total of 33 sides. 10 sides competing in the Premiership.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds one of the longest established clubs within Cambridge competing in the counties top division. Of course can’t go past this without mentioning the heartfelt loss of Sam Issacson losing her battle with bowel cancer a well loved member of the Fulbourn team, taking part in the Kick Cancer Cup along with her Fulbourn teammates raising money for charity before final succumbing to the decease. A bench erected by the pitches at the Recreation Ground in her honour and the new coaching team of Ashley Hunt and Ryan Lee adding a tribute to the with the words Sam 10 on the shirt sleeves the number 10 shirt retired in her name. 

Sam’s bench, erected in memory of much missed Fulbourn player Samantha Issacson.

 A side that was often amongst the goals last season where they averaged 6.44 goals per game they featured in unfortunately not winning as many as they lost though, to record a 7th place finish. Ebony Crook and Marie Stubbings scoring 40 goals between them last season with Crook getting 18, Stubbings 22. Neither coming close to Ellie Woodley who found the back of the net for 40 goals during the campaign. Just two league matches played so far this season, suffering a 1-0 defeat against Cambridge Rangers WFC before bouncing back well away to Cambridge University Women last time out winning 5-0 with Marie Stubbings netting a hat-trick, Eleanor Woodley and Natalie Wells also on the score sheet.

 Eaton Socon Ladies joining the Cambridgeshire Women’s football league back ii the 2019 season, initially affected by the Covid pandemic season’s have progressed up the league’s winning Division One North in 2021. Promoted to the Premiership last season enjoyed a strong debut season at that level unbeaten in their first 6 matches, only losing 5 matches along the way with 4 of those being against the two sides vying for the title finishing 4th overall.  Sasha Tristram now out in the US to enjoy her football top scoring during that campaign with 12 goals. 

Due to unforeseen circumstances Eaton Socon Ladies having to bringing in a new manager just a few weeks before the season was due to start with Dan Dodson taking charge of the squad. Looking to bring in a different style of play it has been a tougher start to the campaign with 3 consecutive losses beginning with a 1-0 home defeat against Real Bedford Reserves then back to back losses on the road 2-0 and 6-0 away to Cambridge Rangers WFC and Whittlesey Athletic Ladies. Will be hoping to turn their fortunes around with their 3rd successive away trip.

Having not been to the Fulbourn Recreation Ground for a while I was still sure I knew the way, but I didn’t as I turned right at the pub bringing me out behind the pitch so a quick turn around and I sorted thing’s out. A large community facility with numerous sports activities on offer the grass pitches over looked by a large pavilion and cricket square. Today’s game on the pitch furthest from the changing rooms the whole area surrounded by trees. At first appearances the pitch appearing to be covered in dew in places but was in fact a carpet of spiders webs…  

Part of the pitch covered in a carpet of spiders webs

…with numerous little arachnids scuttling about getting disturbed by the arrival of the players and supporters alike. The weather remains beautiful for the time of year with it again over 20 degrees, dry and the sun high in a relatively blue sky.

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Rachel Fallow, Seema Grewal, Julie Brown, Sarah Bodger, Jess Anderson, Dani Quinn, Hollie Turner, Ebony Crook, Katie Luddy, Marie Stubbings (C) & Ellie Woodley. Subs – Jody Hoenink & Gabby Gallegos.

Eaton Socon Ladies

 Eaton Socon Ladies starting XI – Keeley Robinson, Abby Jones, Faye Prout, Gemma Cooksley (C), Georgia Bickley, Kelly Bingham, Hannah Hutchinson, Shannah Anico, Charlotte Crisp, Chloe Parncutt & Lily Horsler. Subs – Kayleigh Clarke, Hollie Radford-Dare, Cara Howell, Rebecca Jones & Leah Falzarano. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Gemma Cooksley and Marie Stubbings with Richard May

The spiders might have enjoyed their Sunday so far, but now 22 football players are about to descend upon them. Eaton Socon doing the league double over Fulbourn last season will be hoping for a victory today to kick start the new campaign the sun moving around the pitch with the tree line leaving one goalmouth in shade with Fulbourn winning the kick-off attacking that end first half wearing sky blue shirts with claret sleeves, claret shorts and sky blue socks. Eaton Socon themselves usually playing in claret colours wearing a white away shirt with red on the sleeves, white shorts and claret socks. The ball rolled back to captain Marie Stubbings to clip long out to the right as Katie Luddy breaks forwards on the wing, Faye Prout clearing the danger for Eaton Socon.

 The visitors hustling in midfield the ball played out to the right for Shannah Anico to attack up the line whipping a dangerous cross into the Fulbourn six yard box players running no one can get a touch as it bounces on at the far post. Retrieved on the left the cross back in taking a deflection straight into goalkeeper Rachel Fallow’s gloves. Hannah Hutchinson battling for the ball in midfield for Eaton Socon picking out Anico with the diagonal pass out to the right, Fulbourn full back Julie Brown getting across her to take the ball out for a throw.

Kelly Bingham on the ball for Eaton Socon

  Eaton Socon looking to make a positive start pushing up into the Fulbourn half to press and win the ball, Anico providing an outlet on the right looking to take on Brown a good contest looming between the pair, Brown throwing a leg out to take the ball away from Anico. A high line from the visitors Fulbourn looking to expose the defence as Hollie Turner gets hold of the ball inside the centre circle attempts to thread it in behind into Stubbings as she pulls into the left channel, Abbey Jones with a timely interception for Eaton Socon.

Fulbourn captain, Marie Stubbings

  The Eaton Socon defence back peddling as Fulbourn turn play around with a high clearance from the back players rushing forwards, Georgia Bickley getting her boot up well to hook the ball away to safety. 

  GOAL! The ball contested hotly in the middle Fulbourn bring it on the attackers combining Woodley on for Stubbings breaking into the area left of the D, goalkeeper Keeley Robinson coming to close her down, saves with her foot as Stubbings shoots the rebound gathered by Stubbings who lays the ball in central for Woodley to turn unmarked and open up her body to slot the ball into the bottom corner 1-0. 

Ellie Woodley opening the scoring for Fulbourn

  A goal inside the opening 5 minutes from Fulbourn, a blow for Eaton Socon having made a positive start winning a free-kick on half way the ball floated in to the top of the area the header won by Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger.

  GOAL! Fulbourn’s attackers carve open the Eaton Socon defence to double their lead as Stubbins picking the ball up on halfway travels on well before threading it through the middle for Woodley to race clear into the box and shoot low wide of the keeper for her 2nd goal in 3 minutes 2-0. 

Two quick fire goals for Ellie Woodley

  Eaton Socon well and truly on the back foot now, looking for a response as Hutchinson takes the ball on into the right corner before whipping a dangerous back in across the face of goal, no one there to turn it home however. The visitors getting a throw high on the right, Anico and Jess Horsler combining as another teasing ball is flashed across the six yard box, Seema Grewal able to clear for Fulbourn beyond the far post. 

  Fulbourn winning a free-kick on the left 35 yards out as Crook bringing the ball on is bundled to the ground. Over the set-piece herself strikes the ball in towards goal a curling ball that crashes down off the crossbar, Dani Quinn racing in on the follow up as the ball drops wide of the right post, Robinson on the ground having dived attempting to get to Crook’s effort scrambling up to make the blocking save, Quinn able to get hold of the ball for a 2nd bite looking to drag it round the keeper can’t believe it as she rakes her shot wide past the far post. 

Ebony Crook’s free-kick comes down off the bar

Dani Quinn, frustrated to see her shot race wide

  The visitors on the ropes coming close to conceding a 3rd scrapping for possession in the middle, Kelly Bingham on for Horsler, turns Bodger in to close her down. Turner and Quinn working together in the middle for Fulbourn the ball lifted forwards, cleared by Eaton Socon captain, Gemma Cooksley as she backs up towards her area, Stubbings racing in to steal the ball finding its way into Crook inside the D, turns inside looking to strike the ball sends her effort wide of the top corner. 

Fulbourn’s Ebony Crook

  Eaton Socon riding their look still aiming to get forwards with Hutchinson carrying the ball out to the right linking up well with Anico on the line to deliver a cross in along the top of the area, Horsler getting up to head the ball down towards goal, drops straight into Farrow back on her line. Hutchinson making some powerful runs on the ball again on the right winning a throw the ball down for Anico to cross, Charlotte Crisp looking to get it under control outside the box, turns into Jess Anderson as she closes her down.

   Bickley clearing at the back for Eaton Socon as she drops back on Woodley as Stubbings attempts to play the ball up to her. Brown lunging in to deny Anico getting in behind on the right. Eaton Socon pressing on the right with Bingham the latest player to take the ball on force her way through into the box, running into traffic. Crisp brought down presenting Eaton Socon with a free-kick 25 yards out to the right of goal. Takes on the shot the Fulbourn wall doing it’s job the ball deflected out to the left as the referee stops proceedings for a drinks break.

  25 minutes played a chance for Eaton Socon to regroup. Play resuming with an Eaton Socon throw on the right, Chloe Parnett crossing the ball in high headed clear by Bodger. Bodger then clearing as she closes down Hutchinson looking to drive on with the ball on the left side. Hutchinson sending a ball over the top into the area for Horsler and Crisp to attack, Anderson holding them off to see the ball safely back to her keeper.

Eaton Socon’s, Hannah Hutchinson

 Stubbings getting the ball down inside the Eaton Socon half off of their own goal kick knocks it forwards into Woodley inside the D, looking to turn inside to shoot Bickley stretching out a leg for Eaton Socon deflects the ball away. The visitors get on up the left winning a throw high leading to a looping cross dropping into the six yard box, Crisp under challenge trying to get something on it unable to connect as Fallow lays claim to it. 

  Eaton Socon winning the first corner of the game taken from the right a great delivery curled in across the face of goal over everyone, no one able to connect as it bounces past the far post. Fulbourn happy to drop invite Eaton Socon on defend around their box knowing the counter is always on the ball cleared out to the left with Crook looking to turn the defence, Jones just about staying on her stretching her leg to knock it against Crook to deflect it away to the left corner, then as Crook goes to retrieve it Jones prevents the cross coming in the ball off Crook for the goal kick.

  Turner and Quinn putting in a shift to win the ball in the middle for Fulbourn the ball forwards releasing Woodley away through the middle off Cooksley last man she can’t risk bringing her down as Woodley break into the box a chance to net her hat-trick shoots early a tame effort in the finish not troubling Robinson. 

  Stubbings pulling out to the right wide receiving the ball, held up lays it back up the line for Luddy her cross/shot from deep dropping over the Eaton Socon goal. Woodley put in the clear on the right wing sees the keeper way off her line attempts the chip sending the ball over her to bounce inside the six yard box, up onto the crossbar and behind!

Fulbourn’s Hollie Turner

 The chances mounting for Fulbourn to extend their lead. Eaton Socon still pushing for a reply however getting another corner on the right, swung into the near post, Farrow punching it behind for a 2nd corner, this one cleared out of the area, no break on as Eaton Socon put a diagonal ball into Horsley who hits the shot on the turn 30 yards out a good effort, but once again straight into Farrow.

 The visitors winning the ball central on for Horsley, right going in to challenge with Brown the defender grounded the ball deflected forwards, Bingham racing onto it striking the ball on the angle, Farrow scrambling across her goal seeing it crash into the side netting. Leah Falzarano on for Eaton Socon for Anico, up on the right with Hutchinson cut back inside for Horsler her shot blocked by Bodger. 

Eaton Socon’s Lily Horsler

  Eaton Socon overloading the right side getting up the pitch well delivering a dangerous ball into the box bouncing awkwardly at the far post with Parncutt closing down the keeper, Fallow composed taking it high on the bounce. Brown picking up a head injury for Fulbourn in the latter stages of the first half comes off with Jody Hoenink coming on. The game getting a little testy in patches Eaton Socon a little frustrated. The visitors with the opportunity to play the ball into the area off a free-kick on the right Bingham to deliver, Crisp up central can’t get strong contact the ball flicked out to the left gathered by Parncutt who rifles a shot over on the angle. 

  Cooksley winning the ball as she tackles Stubbings inside the D as she attempt to bring down a cross put in from Luddy on the right. Eaton Socon flabbergasted as they fail to win a corner in the dying seconds of the first half with Bingham and Anderson battling for the ball delivered into the box from the right, Bingham adamant it came off the defender.

   Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 2-0 Eaton Socon Ladies

  Fulbourn in control of the first half, despite Eaton Socon looking to make a positive start the hosts capitalising on errors at the back to break away to score two early goals. Woodley on target for both, could well have added a couple more having created some golden chances and hitting the woodwork. Eaton Socon regrouping well after the drinks break to try and pressure the Fulbourn defence getting after the ball getting into some good positions but not testing the keeper. Still at just 2-0 are far from out of the game and as is often the case the next goal is critical. With the pavilion housing the changing rooms a good distance away both teams staying out in the shade for the half-time break. Spiders everywhere one crawling across my notepad and having left my bag open goodness knows how many I’ll be bringing home with me. 

Just one of thousands of spiders descend on Fulbourn Recreation ground this Sunday.

No fresh changes for either side with Jody Hoenink for Fulbourn and Leah Falzarano for Eaton Socon coming on late in the first half. The visitors to get the 2nd half underway. The ball launched forwards out to the right, Hoenink doing the defending for Fulbourn. The hosts straight on the counter with Turner in the centre helping the ball on for Stubbings to race forwards lay the pass out to Woodley on the right her strike on the angle saved low at the near post by Robinson. 

Seema Grewal defending for Fulbourn

 Fulbourn pressing the ball outside the box deflected back into the box, Robinson rushed into the clearance as Woodley closes her down. Quinn tackling in the centre playing the pass forwards into Stubbings sprays the ball out to the right for Luddy, her cross swept in towards goal put behind. 

Eaton Socon getting up on the right winning a corner the ball sent into Horsley top of the area plays it back to the taker driven in towards the near post cleared by Hoenink, Crisp getting back onto the ball from distance striking a shot wide. Bingham putting herself about to try and win the ball back for Eaton Socon get them on the attack driving a pass into Horsler 25 yards out back to goal controls on the turn striking a shot goal wards, Fallow must have a script for this game because the goalkeepers right behind it again to catch. 

Fulbourn’s Jody Hoenink

 Bodger defending as Bingham drives at her getting the ball off Parncutt on the left. Winning a throw on the left level with the top of the area Bingham sees the ball into her before tracking inside to strike the ball, falling back as she does so screws the ball wide of the far post. 

Kelly Bingham slipping as she unleashes the shot

 Eaton Socon remaining competitive looking to take the game to Fulbourn who allow sitting back remain comfortable in defence. The ball lifted into the six yard box off a throw on the left drops in front of Falzarano, the attacker can’t get a telling touch though before Fallow snatches up the ball. Fulbourn patient in attack ready to hit Eaton Socon on the counter Turner out to Stubbings left plays it forwards early into the channel looking to release Woodley, Robinson racing out to the edge of her box able to gather first.

Horsley controlling the ball 30 yards out putting into the path of Hutchinson bursting away into the left channel striking the ball in towards goal on the angle plenty of power behind it Farrow gets down low to save top of her six yard box the ball split running out to the left, Grewal back to hook the ball away from a throw before Parncutt can pounce. Eaton Socon with a double change the fullbacks Prout and Jones coming off Rebecca Jones and Cara Howell coming on. Brown back on for Fulbourn replacing Luddy.

Eaton Socon’s Chloe Parncutt

 Fallow down to stop a shot driven in on the angle by Crisp for Eaton Socon. Crook up on the right for Fulbourn whipping a cross in near post, Woodley closing in on the keeper, Robinson staying big making the blocking save holding onto the ball.

  Quinn tracking back well from the midfield to put the challenge in on Hutchinson top of the area as she drives on through the middle with the ball. Bickley defending for Eaton Socon at the back as Woodley takes the ball into the box a corner conceded on the right. Played in deep across the six yard box Quinn meeting it heads over. Bingham determined to get forwards on the right winning Eaton Socon a corner kick, this time Quinn is up to win the defensive header, Stubbings bringing the ball away to safety. Midway through the 2nd half. Fulbourn breaking away in attack Crook up with Woodley through the middle the latter running through into the area, Robinson coming to close her down saving the ball beat away to the right…

Eaton Socon’s Kelly Bingham

  GOAL! The ball deflected out to the right Crook racing after it the Eaton Socon defence stretched the cross fired in along the face of goal, Robinson can’t get down to it, with Woodley waiting at the far post for a simple tap in to secure her first hat-trick of the season. 3-0.

A hat-trick for Fulbourn’s Ellie Woodley

 A drinks break called immediately after the goal remains warm out there. The game restarted from the spot Eaton Socon sloppy in possession giving it away the diagonal ball out to Crook on the right wing hooks a high ball in towards the far post, has Robinson back peddling can’t get to it, close but lands on the roof of the net. 

  Woodley lining up a strike from 25 yards out as the ball deflects into her feet, races wide of the right post. Eaton Socon with another double switch bringing on Hollie Radford-Dare and Kayleigh Clarke for Horsley and Parncutt off. Crisp curls the ball forwards looking to drop it into the path of Falzarano racing towards the box, Farrow quickly forwards to claim. 

Eaton Socon’s Charlotte Crisp

 Hutchinson upended as she drives forwards with the ball the free kick awarded 20 yards right of the D. Crisp over it her shot deflected up off the wall falling to Hutchinson beyond the right post can’t sort out her feet before she is closed down snatches the ball wide. 

 Grewal winning the ball at the back for Fulbourn hooking it into the middle for Stubbings to who in turn feeds the ball up the left channel into Woodley in space the keeper off her line takes on the shot early slotting it past Robinson but too past the outside of the far post. Fulbourn gaining momentum as Eaton Socon tire Turner into Stubbings she and Woodley combine through the middle bringing the ball on played wide to Crook breaking away on the right fires a pacy ball low into the six yard box, Robinson down well to grab with a smart save with Woodley rushing to close her down.

  Fulbourn making a change at left back bringing on Gabby Gallegos for Grewal with a little over 10 minutes left to play. The hosts in control as Quinn is fouled on halfway. Bodger to send the ball on up into the area, Cooksley clearing for Eaton Socon. Anderson can’t help but collide with her keeper as Fallow makes the decision to come and claim the ball low off an Eaton Socon free-kick from halfway. Down for a moment is okay to continue. Howell picking up a knock on her knee (I know what they feel like) is taken off with Anico back on for the visitors.

  Fulbourn working hard towards the latter stages of the game to keep their clean sheet intact. Hutchinson pushing on with the ball right side winning a corner off Anderson. Into the last 5 minutes, Hoenink out to Quinn on for Stubbings through the middle on for Woodley left of the area 25 yards out her shot wide of the far post taking a nick off a defender the corner awarded. Swept in across the face of goal claimed confidently by Robinson. Crook taking the ball into the corner with the clock ticking down.

  Radford-Dare took out by Anderson a heavy challenge, the free-kick awarded, Bingham getting a warning from the referee after voicing her complaints. Crisp over the ball to the left swept in central one bounce and claimed by the keeper. Crook taking the ball away to the corner getting a late corner deep in stoppage time, the shot from the edge of the box held by the keeper. 

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 3-0 Eaton Socon Ladies

Eaton Socon’s Abbey Jones with Fulbourn’s Ebony Crook

Full time and Fulbourn come away with the 3 points and a 2nd successive clean sheet, Ellie Woodley with all three of their goals. Breaking away to get in behind the Eaton Socon defence to score two early goals in the first half. Creating more good opportunities to extend their lead. Eaton Socon competing for the ball looking to press high making mistakes at the back letting their opponents in. Enjoyed good spells without really testing the keeper. At 2-0 however weren’t out of the game by any stretch and came out strong at the start of the 2nd half looking for a reply, Fulbourn happy to sit back defending comfortably waiting for the right moment to attack getting the crucial 3rd goal to seal the result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Once again not a straight forwards decision a few contenders and some performances of note to mention. First up for Eaton Socon. Hannah Hutchinson looked to be the driving force through the middle getting hold of the ball and making several good runs. Shannah Anico providing a great outlet on the right in the first half, while Kelly Bingham got about well covering the ground looking to win possession and take her team forwards. For Fulbourn Dani Quinn and Hollie Turner with a composed display in the middle of the park. The front 3 outstanding 80 goals between them last season, Marie Stubbings getting onto the ball carrying it forwards well with two assists. Ebony Crook out on the flanks offering some great runs and getting the ball into the attackers well with the other assist. The award though goes to the hat-trick scorer herself Ellie Woodley clinical in her finishes pulling into the channels well and reading the game developing behind her.

  Great to be back at Fulbourn again, has been a while but I can say that about several places, good to catch up though and pleased to finally see Eaton Socon even if they didn’t get a positive result stick together and the results will come. Appreciate the help given by both teams today. I dare say we’ve all taken a spider home with us but they don’t mean us any harm. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Thursday 11th April

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup 

Cambridge City Ladies Development v Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

A trip to Cambridgeshire this evening for a Cup Final double, first up this Thursday the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup, Cambridge City Ladies Development taking on Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium.

An all Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Final, Cambridge City Ladies Development with the chance to win a treble, beginning with a shot at silverware this evening have also reached this season’s League Cup Final to come in May. They are currently top of the league and in a strong position with 4 games left to play to win the title and with their 1st team winning the ERWFL Premier Division title this season their 3rd league title in 4 seasons the club is enjoying a prolific spell with a strong youth section being the bedrock of the club. Megan Tonks top scorer for the Development side has 28 goals to her name so far this season.

A Cup Final appearance for the second season running for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds. Reached the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup last season on their way to winning promotion back to the Premiership. Currently leading the pack in the cluster of sides below the top 3 with 3 points between the sides placed 4th to 7th a top half finish a real possibility with a handful of games left. Marie Stubbings once again leading Fulbourn’s goal scoring charts with 17 goals to her name so far this season.

Road to the Final

    Fulbourn receiving a bye in the 1st Round of the competition, Cambridge City awarded a home win the action moves on to the quarter finals. Cambridge City at home taking on Histon Ladies Reserves, Megan Tonks netting a hat-trick along with a goal for Hannah Lock seeing them win the game 4-1. Fulbourn were at home too in the quarter finals taking on Championship South side Cambridge Ranger WFC, goals from Amy Smith, Yasmine Upson, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings putting them through to the semi-finals with a 4-0 win.

Onto the semi-finals Cambridge City at home to fellow Premiership side March Town United Ladies. Another hat-trick this time from 16-year-old Freya Standing, along with an own goal plus one from Rachel Pearce seeing them comfortably through to the junior Invitation Cup Final winning 5-0. Fulbourn were taking on another Championship South side in the last 4, Burwell Tigers Ladies. A brace each from Stubbings & Pinner aswell as a goal by Katie Luddy securing a 5-1 win to send them through to the final.

Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium the venue for this evenings Junior Invitation Cup Final, it’s a large pitch offering plenty of width seen alot of action over the season. The bar open a large seated stand overlooking the pitch. The food hut open too, only went to get a cup of tea but the burgers did look good and temptation got the better of me, have been good though this believe it or not my first cheeseburger of the season and it was very nice too. The evenings pulling out the light not yet gone at kick-off a warm day beginning to cool, dry with a little cloud cover.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Hannah Lock, Becky Langthorpe, Lucy Hurst, Anna Kanz, Jade Powell, Emily Reed, Rachel Pearce, Ellie Cullum (C), Yaz Crow, Freya Standing & Megan Tonks. Subs – Jess Struthers, Amy Ozakpinar & Bronte Rapley.

 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Isaacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Abi Molloy, Katrina Cloherty, Emma Clark, Sarah Gee, Stacey Kemp, Sharon Pinner & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Amy Smith, Gabby Gallegos, Abi Dowell McGrillan, Nikki Cowan & Katie Luddy.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Pre match handshakes

It’s Fulbourn to get the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup underway wearing claret shirts and socks with navy blue shorts. Cambridge opposite wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Cambridge closing down the ball in the middle quickly get position switch play down the right wing Freya Standing taking the ball on, Krissie Taylor defending for Fulbourn seeing the ball out for a goalkick.

   Fulbourn look to get away on their right the ball won on halfway Yaz Crow playing it on high into the area, Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger getting her head on the ball nodding it behind for a corner. Played in from the left into bodies at the near post pushed out towards the top of the area met by a Cambridge shirt a low shot driven back in towards goal, Samantha Isaacson captain and goalkeeper getting down on her line to stop the ball.

   Cambridge captain Ellie Cullum looks to combine with Standing on the right as they press forwards Fulbourn defending Taylor backed up by Abi Molloy another corner conceded. Cambridge with a bright start closing the ball down. Standing attacks with the ball at her feet, Taylor up against her does well to nick the ball her clearance straight to Cullum her return ball back over the top for Standing sees her flagged offside. Standing seeing alot of the ball early on squares a cross to Cullum central 25 yards out she helps it on to the left Crow getting forwards takes the shot on early her strike racing wide across goal. 

  Fulbourn riding out the early pressure from their opponents break forwards Bodger playing the ball out from the back long for Marie Stubbings to chase into the right channel she pushes it out of her feet before sending a low diagonal ball in towards the top of the area looking for Sharon Pinner who has gotten into an advanced position, pressures the Cambridge defence into a rushed clearance the ball straight to midfielder Sarah Gee she catches it well from 25 yards out the strike the shot over goalkeeper Hannah Lock smashes against the crossbar.

  Cambridge get hold of the loose ball taking it forwards rapidly hitting Fulbourn on the counter the pass into striker Megan Tonks she is tackled 25 yards out the deflected ball running behind for a corner on the right. The delivery in near post Bodger is up well to defend for Fulbourn heading the ball on away past the far post a scramble for the ball sees it run wide of the post adjudged off a Cambridge foot a goalkick given. 

  GOAL! 15 minutes on the clock and Fulbourn take the lead possession on the left the ball is played forwards a great pass finding Stubbings central 30 yards out back to goal turns well pushing on has Stacey Kemp making a fantastic run to her right lay the ball into her path the winger hitting the ball from outside the box well struck to whistle past the keeper into the back of the net and put see Fulbourn lead 0-1. 

  Cambridge get straight on the attack a long distance strike from the right sent wide of goal, Seema Grewal defending at right back stops Crow taking the ball in behind.

  GOAL! Fulbourn’s lead doesn’t last long as Cambridge find an immediate response the ball kept on the left a throw in won inside the Fulbourn half players from both sides drifting across a pass slid forwards comes to Standing 20 yards out left of the D, not closed down takes a touch before taking on the shot the ball bouncing inside the six yard box managing to creep inside the post to see the scores level 1-1.

More good footwork from Standing attacking right a cross swung in looping into the six yard box taken well by Issacson. Grewal on for Kemp on the right getting forwards has support from Stubbing central, Anna Kanz though doing well in defence for Cambridge winning the ball back and playing it forwards into Emily Reed, onto Cullum she turns attempting to play Tonks in behind, Bodger with an important interception for Fulbourn, Cullum latching onto the loose back her shot from distance falling wide of the target. 

  Rachel Pearce plays a fantastic diagonal pass forwards into Standing right side taking the ball on Taylor standing up against her well preventing her getting in behind. Fulbourn make ground on their right a throw in won level with the area, put on into Stubbings inside the box, Kanz tackling wins the ball. Cambridge make a change Hurst coming off at left back on in her place Jess Struthers. Good combination play between Standing and Tonks getting forwards attempting a one two the ball inside the box claimed well by Issacson down at the attackers feet. 

  Play from one end to the other, Fulbourn winning a corner got work from Stubbings on the byline holding it up as Kemp plays it forwards. The delivery from the right defended at the near post Cambridge launching a counter attack, the ball out to the right Standing sending a cross racing into the area long  cleared past the far post along the ground it met well by the advancing Cullum struck back in low cut out inside the six yard box the ball popping up for Tonks central has a stab at it placing the ball wide of the left post. 

   GOAL! Cambridge come back from conceding the opening goal to take the lead a goal out of nothing possession high on the left the ball with Reed inside the area taking it to the byline not tackled looks for options corner of the six yard box, hooks a ball in towards goal the looping shot over Issacson drops over the line to see Cambridge go 2-1 up.

Cambridge City Ladies. Emily Reed

A Cambridge corner on the right dealt well again at the near post by Bodger. Cambridge enjoying more of the ball exerting pressure towards the end of the 1st half make a 2nd change, Kanz the player coming off on comes Amy Ozakpinar. Fulbourn’s Emma Clark playing the ball forwards on the left for Pinner to chase, Becky Langthorpe’s clearance catching her in the face. A stinging blast hitting her in the eye, no chances taken time needed to recover, she is substituted one comes Abi Dowell McGrillan. Stubbings seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out looks to turn in behind Jade Powell getting in the tackle to regain possession.

Becky Langthorpe clearing the ball before Fulbourn’s Sharon Pinner can close her down

  Good hold-up play from Clark on the left for Fulbourn inside the Cambridge half plays it back to Taylor before turning in behind to get forwards in attack the full back with a great past up to Stubbings outside the box cushions it down well aiming to put it on for Clark not quite able to take it in her stride, Struthers clearing for Cambridge. Katrina Cloherty with the ball central for Fulbourn out to Dowell McGrillan left her crossfield ball finding Kemp attacking on the right puts it into the area for Stubbing right of goal she gets a shot away the ball blocked deflected wide. Kemp down with an injury after being fouled far side, a late change for Fulbourn, Amy Smith given her moment runs on the wind taken out of her sails as the whistle blows straight away for half-time.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies Development 2-1 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   An entertaining first half Cambridge with the early pressure Fulbourn coping well in defence breaking well to open the first smash a shot against the ball then open the scoring from a well taken strike by Kemp. Switched off a little to see Cambridge draw level straight away and then go on to take the lead, not as fluid as Cambridge would like but the advantage is theirs at the half-time interval.

Pinner back on for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half, no changes for Cambridge as they get the 2nd 45 minutes underway. Up in the stand to watch the 2nd half. Pearce playing an over the top pass for Standing right side, Taylor getting across her and defending for Fulbourn. Standing with a strong run down the right again gets in behind this time bursting into the box hitting a shot goalwards, Issacson doing well at her near post down to push the ball wide across her six yard box, Grewal the first to it sends the clearance up field. 

  Cambridge on the front foot attacking with purpose at the start of the 2nd half Crow taking the ball on to the byline left does well to get her side a corner. Taken short the angle opened to put in the cross, Grewal is out to the ball jumping to block the ball. Standing with the ball right 30 yards out lays it back to Langthorpe the full back opening her boy to lift a long range diagonal pass into Tonks top of the D, chesting it down to her left tries to place it into the path of the advancing Pearce, the attack not quite coming off. 

  Tonks coming left sends the ball on for Cullum breaking in behind, Grewal with an important interception. Cambridge all attack get forwards left a cross sent in along the top of the area Tonks looking to latch onto it, Molloy gets their just in time to block the ball deflected wide for a corner. In low from the left flicked on into the six yard box, a touch goalwards, straight at Issacson pops out of the keepers gloves a scramble for the loose ball ensues, but Issacson grounded has the ball in her gloves on her goal line.

  Fulbourn make a change Pinner off on comes Katie Luddy, little in the way of attacks so far Cambridge on the front foot. Standing pulled back on the right corner a free-kick awarded, the ball played into the near post, Bodger continues to win it for Fulbourn. Cambridge make a double change Reed and Tonks the players off on come Bronte Rapley with Kanz returning to the action.. Crow away on the left sending the ball inside for Cullum bursting into the box a snap shot not caught cleanly the midfielder snatching it wide of her near post.

GOAL! Against the run of play Fulbourn break and get themselves back on level terms 20 minutes into the 2nd half. A fantastic run with the ball from Luddy on the right getting in behind to fire a cross into the box along the top of the six yard box knocked away at the near post the ball collected by Stubbings central just inside the area a great turn and hit the ball swerving past Lock curling into the back of the net 2-2 game on.

Fulbourn’s Marie Stubbings

   A goal can do wonders for confidence and suddenly Fulbourn are on the front foot themselves looking to attack once more Grewal winning the ball back higher up the pitch pushing it on for Luddy, Struthers tackling to prevent the cross. The Cambridge defence put under pressure Powell clearing. Cambridge make another double switch Reed and Hurst returning in place of Cullum and Langthorpe. Standing drifting over to the left picking up the ball turns well inside the box her shot blocked, a 2nd bite at the cherry for Standing knocked central a shot pushed towards goal Issacson down to push it behind for a corner.

  An injury for Cambridge before it can be taken, Crow can’t continue Tonks is back on. Mayhem from the corner but I’ll do my best the delivery perfect in central top of the six yard box a header downwards cleared off the line put out to the right wide of goal a shot blasted back in smashes against the crossbar dropping into the six yard box players dive in referee Dulcie Asher pointing to the spot Cambridge winning the penalty!

  GOAL! Bronte Rapley placing the ball down a short run up and composed finish, Issacson going the wrong way as she finds the bottom left corner to restore the lead 3-2 with a little under 15 minutes to play. 

  Luddy showing her frustration as she is adjudged to have fouled Struthers after Stubbings plays her in on the right with a good lay off. Standing on the left now gets clear to get her foot wrapped around the ball a drive a cross in across the six yard box, Molloy able to intercept and clear at the far post. Reed with a run from midfield the cross from the byline from Standing just evading her. Fulbourn making 3 changes in quick succession, Luddy first for Cloherty, Pinner return in in place of Gee with Gabby Gallegos for Pinner whose cameo was longer than this paragraph suggests. 

  Fulbourn win a free-kick in a dangerous area just in front of the D, Taylor over it gets her shot in on target past the wall, safely gathered by Lock back on her line, Time running out Cambridge are a young side and they don’t tend to run the ball into the corners attack on their minds. Bodger well placed tracking back to intercept with Tonks on her shoulder as Struthers threads a diagonal ball into her the ball out for a throw on the left. Time up the final whistle blows and Cambridge City Ladies Development celebrate winning the Junior Invitation Cup.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies Development 3-2 Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

   The first part of their potential treble complete, Cambridge weren’t at their best but that only added to the excitement. A strong start but Fulbourn rode it out well hitting on the counter taking an early lead. Their back four playing really well all making some crucial tackles and breaking up Cambridge’s flow. Switched off for both the goals as Cambridge fought back to level straight away then take the lead. An onslaught at the start of the 2nd half from Cambridge without getting the break through of a 3rd goal. Fulbourn taking their chance well through Stubbings to make it 2-2. Cambridge getting the opportunity to restore their lead from the penalty spot Rapley with a composed finish. 

Women’s Football East – Payer of the Match

 On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. An entertaining game with some great moments of defending two well taken strikes from Fulbourn, the award goes to the scorer of Cambridge’s first goal Freya Standing easy to see why she has broken into the first team this season, lively on the wing always available as the ball is won back at the back taking players on and setting up attacks.

Congratulations to Cambridge City Ladies Development on their trophy success this evening.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitation Cup Winners, Cambridge City Ladies Development.

   One final down, back to Cambridgeshire again tomorrow (well it’s today as I write this) for the Division One Cup Final, St Ives Town Ladies Development up against Wisbech Town Ladies at Ely City FC. An enjoyable game under the lights at Histon, my thanks to both sides for the team details.

Cup Final Report – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Histon Ladies Reserves

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup

Thursday 3rd May

Another trip back to Ely City FC this Thursday evening for my 3rd final of the week. The Suffolk and Cambridgeshire League’s Cup Finals previously it’s the final of a new competition this time around the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup, with the top two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South meeting in the final, Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds versus Histon Ladies Reserves.

A new competition introduced by the Cambridgeshire FA this season. Featuring the clubs playing the the Championship North & South. The sides drawn into a groups of 3/4 teams 2 groups representing each league each playing the other once with the overall group winner progressing into the semi-finals. 

  Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds with 3 wins from 3 topping Group A above Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves, Isleham United Ladies and Burwell Tigers. Having a great season are leading the way in the Championship South by 6 points over 2nd placed Histon Ladies Reserves who have 2 games in hand. Losing just the one league game so far this season look well placed for a return to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. 

Histon Ladies Reserves are new to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South this season… well sort of… as their squad is largely made up of the former Milton Ladies. Now part of the women’s set-up at Histon as the club establishes a strong platform for it’s girls youth sides to progress into adult football. Histon’s 1st team playing in the ERWFL. The club overall looking to become a strong rival to the Cambridge sides City and United.

  Would have expected Milton if they had still been there to be challenging for the league title this season, and so it is the case as Histon Ladies Reserves. Lay 2nd in the Championship South 6 points behind Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds with 2 games in hand. Were drawn into Group B in the Division One Cup along side St Ives Town Ladies Development and Cambridge Rangers. A 1-1 draw with St Ives Town a 5-2 win over Cambridge Rangers seeing them top the Group and progress to the semi-finals.

Semi-finals

  Histon Ladies Reserves were involved in a 9 goal thriller at home to Riverside Ladies in the semi-final of the Division One Cup. A 4-1 lead to Histon in the 1st half, Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks with a hat-trick, Riverside battled back to score 3 goals in the 2nd half Histon getting an all important 5th goal to reach the final with a 5-2 win.

I was at the 2nd semi-final to watch Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds at home to Wisbech Town Ladies in the Division One Cup. The Championship North side taking the lead on 20 minutes through top scorer Sophie Gutteridge. Fulbourn battled back to lead 2-1 at the break with goals from Krissie Taylor and a volley from the edge of the box from top scorer Marie Stubbings. Sharon Pinner scoring in the 2nd half to put Fulbourn 3-1 up they held on to win despite Gutteridge pulling it back to 3-2 with 15 minutes left.

So it’s Ely City FC’s Ellgia Stadium for a 2nd night running. It hasn’t changed much in 24 hours. The weather still pleasant a little more cloud around tonight and more tractors on the road but I knew I couldn’t get away with it two nights running. 

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Issacson (C), Seema Grewal, Krissie Taylor, Sarah Bodger, Nikki Cowan, Jo Woods, Emma Clark, Sharron Pinner, Amy Smith, Katie Luddy & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Holly Hayes, Vicky Neal, Stacey Kemp, & Lucy Clarkson.

Histon Ladies Reserves starting XI – Danielle Busby, Lauren Threadgold, Kat Brown, Kirsty Smith, Sarah Freestone (C), Casey Kelly, Sam Cousins, Daniella Briggs, Abi Davies, Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks & Philippa Hayden-Evans Subs – Kirsty Jenkinson, Emma Gillespie, Amanda Binge, Becca McNally & Carly Dawson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Three female officials for this evenings final with Stacey Fullicks fresh from helping Cambridge City Ladies secure runners-up spot in the ERWFL Premier Division in the middle assisted on the line by Dulcie Asher and Romana Bria. Andy Phillips the 4th official. Histon to kick off the Division One Cup Final wearing their blue away shirts with yellow trim, black shorts and socks. Fulbourn kitted out in pink shirts each with an individual message of motivation printed upon the back along with navy shorts and socks.

The Fulbourn players sporting motivational messages on their shirts, this from Marie Stubbings

 The ball played back and forth between the midfield’s Fulbourn spreading the play out to the right wing Amy Smith breaking forwards her cross gathered safely by Histon goalkeeper, Danielle Busby. 

A corner for Fulbourn right side the ball in near post defended a 2nd corner awarded. A higher ball in this time Sharron Pinner up to head the ball down into the six yard box, Philippa Hayden-Evans back defending for Histon shielding the ball before it is cleared out to the left. A good start to the match from Fulbourn pressing forwards Jo Woods winning the ball in the middle playing the ball on to Marie Stubbings moving into the left channel, Lauren Threadgold defending for Histon preventing the cross coming in.

Histon’s Casey Kelly with Fulbourn’s Jo Woods

Nikki Cowan cutting a ball out put in diagonally from the left as Histon’s Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks breaks forwards. Pinner linking up with Stubbings left side the cross played into the box the ball deflected gathered bu Busby. Histon get the ball forwards win a corner kick on the right the delivery long Seema Grewal dealing with it at the far post for Fulbourn launch a counter attack the ball played on for Smith on the right bursts forwards turning a cross in towards the box, Busby claims it at her near post. 

The ball regained in the middle of the park Fulbourn’s Emma Clark into Woods played forwards for Katie Luddy support from Stubbings, Luddy shots her effort from outside the area blocked. Histon make an early switch Sam Cousins coming off, Kirsty Jenkinson coming on. Krissie Taylor gets forwards from left back for Fulbourn, Woods making a good run inside her Taylor playing the ball in towards her a clever flick to control the ball on the run knocking it past her into the area six yards out left of the goal shoots her strike racing wide across the face of goal.

   Histon are beginning to settle, Daniella Briggs out on the left side bringing the ball forwards a wonderful ball sent into the area from deep travelling all the way to the far post Abi Davies running in clear on goal hits it first time her effort smashing against the base of the post spins back out into the six yard box a scramble for the ball Fulbourn manage to get it away. A high ball played on up the right a tricky one for Fulbourn’s Sarah Bodger gets her head on the ball only it lands behind her Davies alert for Histon darts around the defender and sends the cross back towards the top of the area for Hayden-Evans, her shot his charged down, the rebound coming to Briggs to her left she shoots wide.

Histon’s Philippa Hayden-Evans & Fulbourn’s Krissie Taylor challenging for the ball

No sooner have Histon rattled the woodwork at one end then Fulbourn get up the other end in a rapid fire attack and do the same, Luddy with the run in the centre onto the ball striking it from 20 yards out the ball rising as it flies in towards goal has Busby beaten cannons off the crossbar. The woodwork is struck for a 3rd time Histon on the attack the ball on the left the cross into the area Hayden-Evans central helps it on to Davies to her right her rising shot coming at Samantha Issacson in the Fulbourn goal fast gets a touch on the ball as it crashes against the bar, Fulbourn clear and go on the attack Stubbings playing the ball on for Smith on the right, Kat Brown dealing with the threat defends for Histon. 

   Fulbourn with possession Woods with an excellent tackle on for Stubbings, Luddy in support the ball played into her the shot skied over the bar. Grewal comes forwards for Fulbourn right side, Smith receiving the pass tries to turn inside Brown tackles regains possession. Clark gets the ball back for Fulbourn, Stubbings seeing the pass into her back to goal on the edge of the box, looks to turn a shoot, Histon’s captain Sarah Freestone has her closely marked. 

 Cousins returns to the pitch for Histon Casey Kelly coming off. Hayden-Evans breaks clear after the ball as Fulbourn are caught with a high line at the back running towards the box she shoots the ball saved confidently by Issacson. Stubbings is fouled by Freestone on the byline left of the area as she tries to force her way past the defender. The free-kick taken quickly Taylor forwards free top left corner of the area delivers a ball into the far post Pinner up and twisting as she heads the ball sends it goalwards, lacking pace Busby is well placed to claim the ball. 

Histon’s Kirsty Lemmon-Sparks looking to bring the ball under control

  Issacson with another good save off Lemmon-Sparks as the attacker latches onto a poor defensive clearance. The shot in low Issacson diving to her left pushing the ball away from goal. Issacson is hurt making another save soon after the ball fired across the area from the right comes to Hayden-Evans closing in the far post can’t get her shot over the keeper as she goes to ground the ball struck against the keeper. Issacson is okay to continue. Fulbourn do make a change Vicky Neal coming on for Pinner. Neal in the action straight away with the defensive tackle to deny Davies a run into the area cutting in from the right. 

Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 0-0 Histon Ladies Reserves

  The first half ends goalless, has been lively and if the woodwork hadn’t been involved Histon would be leading 2-1 as it is honours even. Two evenly matched sides Fulbourn starting well have looked lively, Histon settling and posing a threat themselves both sides getting the ball out to their wide players. Issacson with a couple of important saves to Fulbourn. No telling as to who might come out on top 2nd half, extra-time and penalties haven’t been called for yet in any final I’ve been… yet.

A change for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd half Stacey Kemp wearing the no 90 shirt on for Smith. It’s Fulbourn to kick off the 2nd period. Luddy out wide right wins Fulbourn an early corner kick the ball cut out and Histon look to counter attack through the middle Woods with the tackle to stop Histon getting beyond halfway. Woods with another strong tackle comes back to help on the right as Davies with Hayden-Evans, tries to play Kirsty Smith in as she makes a run towards the area, Woods coming with her. 

   Kemp bringing the ball on for Fulbourn central shifts it out to Luddy on the right her cross in to the area sees Taylor arriving strikes the shot 1st time, Busby with a good save parrying the ball away then is fouled as she moves in to claim it. Briggs with Lemmon-Sparks attacking left side for Histon the ball won back by Fulbourn played on through the middle, Kemp looking to get her head on it arriving in the box, Busby coming puts her fist through the ball punching it away as she goes over Kemp. 

  Fulbourn are getting crosses into the Histon area, almost all are bread and butter claims for Busby. Histon like the 1st half are a little slow to get going momentum starting to build, an attack is launched players breaking forwards left side play switched out to the right Davies 25 yards out from goal sent a shot back in wide across goal. Taylor gets forwards on the left a one two with Stubbings, Taylor goes on her cross along the top of the area Luddy with the shot charged down by Freestone. 

 Cousins takes the ball on left side on for Hayden-Evans ahead of her, Neal with the challenge denying the attacker a run at goal. Play is stretched a good tempo, both sides moving the ball quickly. Hayden-Evans finds herself clear in on goal coming into the area from the right Issacson comes to close her down the ball past her into the side netting. Briggs with a driving run at the Fulbourn defence rides two challenges before being stopped by the 3rd. Grewal with a vital interception as Briggs looks to run onto a diagonal ball from Cousins in a central position. 

GOAL! The deadlock is broken at last and it’s Histon who get their noses in front a spell of sustained possession, Fulbourn can’t get it away on the left side close to the byline the ball pinging back and forth Hayden-Evans, Lemmon-Sparks and Davies all challenging for the ball before Davies gets hold of it and turning the angle acute fires a shot in across goal to bury the ball inside the far post. Histon celebrate a flag is raised after consulting the officials let the goal stand 0-1.

Abi Davies with the ball putting Histon into the lead

Issacson well placed inside her goal to save the ball as Lemmon-Sparks moves into a shooting position 20 yards out from the right after receiving the ball from Hayden-Evans. Woods claiming the ball drives forwards lays the ball on for Stubbings right her cross in hooked clear by Freestone. Hayden-Evans and Davies both finding space in attack as Fulbourn push on looking for a quick reply. Taylor pulling up has to come off Bodger comes back on. Brown winning the ball for Histon as Stubbings looks to twist inside her into the box. 

  Woods with Luddy  work the ball up the line for Stubbings her cross in cleared for a corner on the right. A short corner from Fulbourn the cross put in from a deep position, Clark running in to attack it near post Davies back defending does well for Histon. Lucy Clarkson intercepts for Fulbourn at the back as Lemmon-Sparkes sends a cross into the box from the left Davies closing in on the right. Carly Dawson comes on for Histon for Threadgold at right back with a little under 5 minutes left. 

   Fulbourn keep coming forwards risk leaving space in behind as they search for the equaliser. Davies bringing the ball on jinks left the right before striking the ball in towards goal her low drive gathered by Issacson. Lemmon-Sparks on for Davies as Histon break, Pinner blocking, Davies’ strike away for a corner. Bodger clearing the ball for Fulbourn, Kemp on it checks back inside Histon close her down scramble the ball away. Into the closing minutes of the match. Fulbourn are getting the ball into the area from wide positions Busby claiming it once again plucks a high delivery into the near post down into her body. 

  Luddy challenged on the right, a last gasp corner for Fulbourn everyone bar Issacson goes up for it the set-piece, the delivery in is played behind goal, the final whistle blows and Histon celebrate as they become the 1st ever winners of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup. 

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 0-1 Histon Ladies Reserves

   A single goal wins the final scored by Histon Ladies Reserves, Abi Davies in the 2nd half. An entertaining contest both sides lively, Fulbourn certainly had their chances. Good movement and competing well against a physical Histon side who themselves created opportunities finding space out wide. The woodwork struck 3 times in the 1st half, Histon looked to have the more direct threat in front of goal. Issacson denying a couple of strikes. Busby at the other end comfortable with anything Fulbourn played into the box from wide. Silverware for Histon Ladies Reserves in their debut season. The two sides are still competing for the league title a double still on however Fulbourn hold the advantage there.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  On to this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As the game wore on the number of potential candidates was slowly whittled down to just one. For Histon she posed a threat all game on the right getting forwards finding space, striking the woodwork twice in the st half and getting the all important winning goal in the 2nd half so the award goes to Abi Davies.

Histon Ladies Reserves, 2017/18 Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup Winners (changed to their regular colours for the presentation)

Congratulations to Histon Ladies Reserves on winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One Cup.

That’s it 3 finals in 3 nights boy was I tired by the last one hence the later publishing I needed the sleep. Still I enjoyed it starting on Tuesday with the Suffolk Women’s League Cup then 2 finals in Cambridgeshire. a brief rest before the first one of two cup final doubles starting in Norfolk on Sunday. Back to Ely again tonight however not for football however but finally to get around to seeing Avengers Infinity War.. I very nearly avoided any spoilers but I’ve waited a week afterall and before you ask I’m not writing a report on that one. Thanks to everyone again for their help last evening.

Match Report – Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds v Wisbech Town Ladies

Sunday 22nd April

  Semi-final action today on Women’s Football East a trip to Cambridgeshire to watch Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds take on Wisbech Town Ladies for a place in the Division One Cup Final.

  A new competition introduced by the Cambridgeshire FA this season. Featuring the clubs playing the the Championship North & South. The sides drawn into a groups of 3/4 teams 2 groups representing each league each playing the other once with the overall group winner progressing into the semi-finals. 

  Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds with 3 wins from 3 topping Group A above Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves, Isleham United Ladies and Burwell Tigers. Having a great season are leading the way in the Championship South by 6 points over 2nd placed Histon Ladies Reserves who have 2 games in hand. Losing just the one league game so far this season look well placed for a return to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership. 

  Wisbech Town Ladies topped Group C also with 3 wins from 3 over Hungate Rovers Ladies, Wisbech St Mary Ladies an Orton Rangers Ladies. Are currently in 3rd spot in the Championship North a competitive tussle at the top of the table. Ketton Ladies currently enjoying a 10 point lead the sides below all have games in hand however. Wisbech Town with 3 games in hand are 12 points behind Ketton. A busy end to the season their squad pushed to the limit with players unavailable and out through injury.

  An opportunity to compete for silverware both Fulbourn and Wisbech Town have a prolific striker in their side this season. Scoring plenty of goals, Marie Stubbings has 38 goals so far this season from 16 appearances. Whilst for Sophie Gutteridge for Wisbech Town has 36 goals to her name from 17 appearances to date. Both are playing this afternoon.

Already through to the Division One Cup Final are Histon Ladies Reserves after the Championship South side won a nine goal thriller with Championship North side Riverside Ladies 5-4 last weekend.

  The venue for today’s match the Fulbourn Recreation Ground a playing field football and cricket with a range of other sports catered for along with the adjoining sports and social club.  Glorious weather for the 2nd Sunday running bright and sunny, possible showers later in the afternoon a breeze helping a little to cool things down. 

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds starting XI – Samantha Isaacson (C), Seema Grewal, Abigail Dowell, Sarah Bodger, Nikki Cowan, Amy Smith, Jo Woods, Katie Luddy, Emma Clark, Krissie Taylor & Marie Stubbings. Subs – Sharon Pinner, Vicky Neal, Yasmin Upson and Stacey Kemp. 

 Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Becky Milner, Leah Hall, Emily Stephenson (C) Amy Hepting, Katie Garner, Annie Rooks, Chloe Riches, Chelsea King, Josie Turner, Faye Kowalewsky & Sophie Gutteridge. Subs – Elizabeth Simpson & Rachael Simpson

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   The sun high over head it’s Fulbourn wearing dark red shirts and socks with navy shorts to get the 1st half underway with Wisbech lined up opposite in their away kit, green shirts with black shorts and socks. Wisbech looking to close the ball down right from the start in the middle the ball pops free releasing Krissie Taylor into space down the left a run with the ball shoots from 20 yards out her effort wide of the near post. A lively start from Fulbourn getting forwards down the left winning a throw deep the ball comes into Taylor crosses the ball into the area, Wisbech goalkeeper Becky Milner claiming the ball.

   Chloe Riches takes the ball on through the middle for Wisbech sends the pass on for Sophie Gutteridge the striker playing in Faye Kowalewsky on the right side getting in behind her cross in intercepted by Fulbourn’s Nikki Cowan inside her six yard box knocked up into the air, Wisbech pressure the ball winning the 1st corner kick of the game. The ball in from the right met by Riches on the volley top of the area central can’t keep the ball down the strike sails wide. Kowalewsky bringing the ball on up the right wing for Wisbech plays the pass inside for Riches breaking forwards from midfield looks to play the through ball in behind for Gutteridge to chase, Isaacson is well positioned getting to the edge of her area to slide in a claim the ball at the attackers feet. 

Wisbech Town Ladies, Chloe Riches

    Fulbourn launch a rapid counter attack the ball brought on by Katie Luddy she releases Taylor on the left her early diagonal ball back into the centre intercepted by Wisbech’s Katie Garner. A corner kick awarded to Wisbech left side players up into the area the delivery in low towards the near post Kowalewsky with the touch puts the ball wide of the post. Chelsea King with the tackle in the middle the ball pushed into Riches played high on for Gutteridge the striker losing sight of the ball for a moment allows Cowan to regain possession for Fulbourn. Josie Turner wide left for Wisbech as players are drawn across, her forwards pass central for Gutteridge, Seema Grewal with her wins the challenge for Fulbourn. 

Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, Emma Clark

  Garner with a vital touch to take the ball away from Marie Stubbings attacking the ball on the right as it is helped on through the middle from a free-kick at the back. The game played at a good tempo both sides attacking Wisbech bringing the ball up the left Turner with the cross into the box for Gutteridge back to goal left side 10 yards out, seeing the ball into her feet a good touch to take it away from her marker and spin in behind closing in on the six yard box as she pulls the trigger Isaacson makes the save a close range the ball off her behind for the corner kick. Kowalewsky stabs the ball wide of the far post as Wisbech pressure the ball from their corner kick preventing Fulbourn getting the ball clear a high ball back into the area knocked on to Kowalewsky, the visitors causing problems for the Fulbourn defence in the opening 20 minutes. 

 GOAL! Wisbech open the scoring 20 minutes played, Gutteridge causing a few problems for the Fulbourn defence pressuring the ball high up the pitch the striker capitalising on some hesitant defending inside the area steals the ball on the penalty spot and shifting the ball to her left slides it wide of Isaacson to score 0-1.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Sophie Gutteridge pictured with Fulbourn’s Seema Grewal scores the opening goal of the tie.

Wisbech make a change Amy Hepting coming off at left back a straight swap for Elizabeth Simpson *(not Rachael as 1st listed apologies).  Fulbourn go straight on the attack from the restart Emma Clark with the ball out left to Taylor her cross it taken cleanly by Milner. Fulbourn get a corner out of nothing on the right the delivery in towards the near post knocked back to the taker crossed back in Luddy can’t bring it under control near post as Leah Hall comes in to clear for Wisbech. Taylor with another run down the left crosses from a deep position the ball striking the outside of the post.

GOAL!  The game closing in on the half hour Fulbourn level the scores Stubbings catching Wisbech in possession on the right steals the ball and burst forwards down the right channel closing in on the byline cuts a high cross back across the face of goal a awkward one to deal with defenders trying to get back Milner can’t reach it as Taylor close in stoops her head onto the falling ball an puts it over the line from close range 1-1.

Krissie Taylor with Wisbech Town’s Chelsea King

 A hot day a drinks break is called a chance for everyone to take on fluids. Play resumes Kowalewsky seeing a cross go wide as she runs clear from a Stephenson clearance at the back for Wisbech. Jo Woods with the tackle the ball on for Clark takes in on through the middle, shifts it into Taylor breaking away on the left then continues her run through the centre Taylor crossing the ball in Garner with a touch deflects the ball out of the area straight to Clark tries to adjust her body as she meets the ball on the volley can’t keep her attempt down. 

Wisbech Town Ladies, Leah Hall

  Fulbourn makes a change, Abigail Dowell coming off for Sharon Pinner. Stubbings alert through the middle nips in to rob the ball as Wisbech hesitate at the back neither defence or goalkeeper laying claim to the ball, Stubbings knocking it on past everyone moving left strikes the ball her her low drive narrowly wide of the near post. A second change for Fulbourn Cowan the player off, Stacey Kemp coming on. The substitute involved straight away the ball rolled into her inside the Wisbech area knocks it to Stubbings close by on her right, Stephenson with a good tackle to deny her a shot on goal. 

  Sarah Bodger defends well up against Turner as the Wisbech attacker tried to get into the box with the ball from the left. Fulbourn make a 3rd change bringing on Yasmin Upson for Luddy the home sides confidence up a notch since their equaliser. Gutteridge pressing the ball high up the pitch gets it out to Kowalewsky on the right her looping cross back in towards the top of the area Riches can’t bring it down under control help it on with Turner free to her left.  

Marie Stubbings

 GOAL! 5 minutes or so left in the 1st half Fulbourn are attacking the ball wide on the right Garner blocking Upson’s cross in the ball out for a throw-in. The ball played into Stubbings top of the area on the right catches the ball sweetly on the volley sending the ball arrowing over the goalkeeper into the top corner to make it 2-1.

 

 Wisbech make a change after the goal Hepting returning to the action Simpson off. Fulbourn push forwards in the closing minutes of the 1st half Kemp taken out as she comes forwards with the ball. The free-kick in a central position Bodger on it goes for goal straight at Milner the Wisbech keeper palming the ball away to the right of goal, Upson quickest to it her snap shot sent wide of the post. A late free-kick for Wisbech inside the Fulbourn half Stephenson to play the ball into the area Kowalewsky knocks it on across the goal, Isaacson gathers for Fulbourn right on the stroke of half-time. 

Half-time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 2-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

   A 2-1 lead for Fulbourn at the break an interesting at enjoyable first half. Wisbech starting the brighter, with Riches in the centre and Gutteridge up top causing problems Gutteridge capitalising to open the scoring. Fulbourn getting back on level terms grew in confidence with the goal and a superb strike on the volley from Stubbing seeing them turn things completely around. Another 45 minutes to go and the semi-final is along way from being settled.

  Wisbech to get the 2nd half started. Kowalewsky from a throw on the right putting an early cross into the area Isaacson can come off her line and claim it before Gutteridge can close it down. Simpson defends well stopping the ball getting beyond her as Fulbourn attack down the left a quick counter attack the pass from Rooks on for Turner breaking on the left for Wisbech, Grewal does enough against her to get the ball back to Isaacson. Turner further up the field central with Gutteridge the two pressure the Fulbourn defence the ball rolled back for Rooks to strike 25 yards out the ball doesn’t trouble Isaacson.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Annie Rooks with Fulbourn’s Emma Clark

  Riches with a strike at goal beats Isaacson however as she lets fly from 30 yards out the ball smashing against the crossbar drops back down into the area, no one attacking it Fulbourn launch it up field. Fulbourn’s turn to attack the ball on the left Upson driving forwards holding off Simpson. Milner coming to the edge of her area looking to gather the ball pulls up suddenly going down in alot of pain. Play goes on Upson pushed wide gets a shot away, Garner back on the cover throwing herself into the block. Play stopped, a Milner in clear discomfort needs treatment. A lengthy pause another injury blow for Wisbech as Milner can’t continue is carried off the pitch. Rachael Simpson getting kitted out ready to take over in goal. 

 Play resumes after a 6 minute delay. Stubbings with support from Kemp on the right the ball into the area cleared by Stephenson. Wisbech’s captain with another great tackle inside the area moments later as Woods plays the ball through to Kemp she picks out Stubbings inside the area right of goal Stephenson times her tackle well knocking the ball against Stubbings and away for the goal kick. Simpson puts her goal kick straight at Kemp, she sends it back in towards goal from 20 yards straight at Simpson as she stops it with her legs on the line.

 GOAL! Fulbourn extend their lead the ball picked up in the middle by Stubbings after Pinner keeps it alive on the left moving across the pitch carrying the ball over to the left side Stubbings covers alot of grass Pinner breaking forwards through the middle times her run perfectly as the Wisbech defence gets stretched Stubbings putting the ball into the area Pinner’s touch putting her clear on goal she sends her shot wide of the keeper to make it 3-1. 

Wisbech look for an immediate response Riches with Rooks through the middle out to Kowalewsky on the right her cross swung in towards the near post Isaacson forwards to claim it ahead of Gutteridge. A free-kick inside their own half as Kemp fouls Hall. Stephenson sends it long up towards Kowalewsky right side the ball evading the Fulbourn defence the winger in in through on goal into the area doesn’t shoot early the angle gone puts the ball straight at Isaacson as the keeper defending her near post goes to ground. 

Wisbech Town Ladies, Faye Kowalewsky

Woods is covering plenty of ground for Fulbourn in the middle of the park getting across to win possession back Kemp, Upson and Stubbings willing runners ahead of her. Bodger at the back with a vital interception as Turner looks to send a looping ball on for Gutteridge. The visitors with a corner kick on the right played in low towards the near post a scramble the ball half cleared comes to King inside the box her shot charged down. Wisbech revert to 3 at the back as they commit players to attacking roles.

 Fulbourn break the ball played into Upson left side she rides a tackle advantage played as she goes on puts the ball into Kemp central 20 yards out slide it into Stubbings on her right her strike hit on the run flashes wide of the post. The home side press the attack Woods coming on up the pitch right side crossed the ball into the middle of the area Stubbing knocking it goalwards the dropping ball cleared off the line away for a corner kick. A crude one from Stephenson as she clatters into the corner taker Stubbings as she looks to control the ball cleared out to her a final warning from the referee. 18 minutes left to play including a hefty portion of stoppage time.

Jo Woods on the ball for Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds

A flowing attacking move by Fulbourn started by Woods bringing the ball with her through the middle passed to Stubbings up with her her pass laid back to Clark put out to Smith on the right her cross into the box finding the head of Kemp the ball directed goalwards claimed by Simpson. A change for Fulbourn Smith taken off Dowell comes back on.

 GOAL! 15 minutes left on the clock and Wisbech pull a goal back a direct goal as the ball his sent on through the middle from a goal kick at the back Gutteridge lively onto it running clear right of goal Isaacson comes out to the edge of her area trying to close the angle down Gutteridge adjusting well to strike the ball high and lob it over the keeper and into the back of the empty net beyond 3-2.

Sophie Gutteridge pulls it back to 3-2 for Wisbech Town Ladies

Fulbourn make a change Luddy back on for Upson. Dowell with a shot from distance Simpson right behind it can bring down safely. Play drawn over to the right Turner with Gutteridge as Wisbech press in attack Kowalewsky taking it beyond them the cross fired in towards the near post Rooks trying to get there but not before Isaacson can gather. A free-kick inside the Fulbourn half for Wisbech. A long way from goal but Stephenson takes the shot on the ball past everyone flashes wide of the post players jumping for it a touch could have easily deflected it towards goal. Fulbourn with the substitutes available make another change at the back this time Kemp coming off up front Vicky Neal coming on to join the back line as Fulbourn look to see out the game. 

Fulbourn Institute Bluebird’s, Katie Luddy

Play stretched Woods winning the ball attacks on the left side her cross going long across the Wisbech area to Dowell on the right, puts a flighted ball back in towards the top of the area Luddy with the looping header forwards Clark ahead of her 8 yards out goes to strike the dropping ball, Rooks back to make the block for Wisbech. A corner given Hepting back on for Wisbech. Deep into stoppage time Isaacson with a low take diving to her left as Turner volleys the ball in towards goal from the top of the area receiving it from a throw on the left.

  Wisbech push on looking for a leveller late on to force the game into extra-time risk being hit on the counter attack. Woods breaking up play in the middle. Stubbings feels the full force of another rash Wisbech block as she attacks on the left a free-kick in a dangerous position outside the area Bodger comes forwards to take her shot bouncing wide across the six yard box and out the far side as the final whistle blows and Fulbourn celebrate as they reach the Division One Cup Final.

Full time Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds 3-2 Wisbech Town Ladies

  An entertaining cup tie this afternoon, between two fairly even sides, Wisbech starting the better just didn’t have the legs to bring on to freshen thing’s up, Fulbourn did and grew in confidence once they got back on level terms in the 1st half going 2-1 at half time. Extending the lead 2nd half, Wisbech regaining a bit of momentum pulling a goal back with 15 minutes set up a tense finish Fulbourn certainly could let their foot off the gas, win 3-2 to set up a final with Championship counterparts Histon Ladies Reserves. That final scheduled to take place in Thursday May 3rd with a 7:30pm kick-off at Ely City FC I will hopefully be there.

  Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award was another close run thing a few contenders narrowed it down to 2 as the game wore on but there can only be one as always and overall I was impressed by Jo Woods in midfield for Fulbourn covering alot of ground to win the ball back break up play and set up others ahead of her.

  I enjoyed this cup tie an entertaining match could have gone either way, bright sunshine too. Good to see both sides in action has been a while. My thanks as always to both clubs for the help with the team details.