Tag Archives: Luton Town Ladies

Cup Final Special – Stevenage FC Women v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 21st May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Moving onto this season’s ERWFL League Cup Final, played this season between two sides vying for runners up spot in the league as they meet in two crunch games at the end of the season, first in the cup with Stevenage FC Women taking on Luton Town Ladies. The Hertfordshire County Cup Champions playing the Bedfordshire County Cup Champions a little bit of neighbourly county rivalry to add the the mix.

The ERWFL League Cup the regional league senior cup competition with the Division One North and South sides contesting the 1st two rounds with 4 going on to join the 12 Premier Division clubs in the 3rd round.

This afternoon’s prize

The ERWFL Premier Division representing tier 5 of the women’s football, often competitive with a high level of talent on show. A tough league to get out of with only the winners guaranteed promotion to the FAWNL above. AFC Sudbury Women achieving that dream this season with a tremendous campaign to secure back to back promotions. Both Stevenage an Luton have tasted life in the FAWNL and the aim is to get back there themselves both amongst the title challengers this season but just missing out.

Stevenage FC Women relegated from the FAWNL last season, when there were 4 sides to be relegated following the FA’s re adjustment of the leagues following the disruption caused by the Covid pandemic. Harsh were close to hanging on to their league status, amongst the favourites to bounce straight back retaining a good portion of their squad under coach Fadi Mazloum in the top two for much of the season as the race for the title heated up with more sides emerging as strong contenders, Mazloum stepping down as head coach, assistant David Perry taking on the role on an interim basis guiding Stevenage to a fifth Hertfordshire County Cup win now given the role on a permanent basis. Amy Makewell Stevenage’s top scorer this season with 15 goals.

Luton Town Ladies themselves enjoying a long spell in the 4th tier before being relegated from the FAWNL were aiming to bounce straight back but Covid got in the way building a strong squad ready to mount a new promotion push were top of the league winning their opening 8 games only to see a points adjustment as Harlow Town Ladies withdrew from the league drop them back amongst the other challengers some competitive tussles at the top of the table have two games left to play one huge one against Stevenage at Barton Rovers this coming Thursday with the winner virtually  gaurenteed runners up spot. Will be smarting from their other league encounter with Stevenage leading 1-0 going onto the closing stages Stevenage came back to score a winner at the death to take all three points. Captain Jess McKay and Elizabeth Sanders are joint top scorers each with 17 goals to their name, with Leyah Maddix all into double figures on 11.

  Road to the Final

  As I said the Premier Division Clubs entering in the 3rd round joined by the 4 Division One sides to progress from rounds 1 and 2 of the competition. Stevenage away to ERWFL Division One South leaders Barking FC Women in the 3rd Round. Emily Schofield scoring a 2nd half brace with Rosy Wodhams also getting a goal in the 1st half for Stevenage and goal for Amy Makewell early in the 2nd period securing a 4-1 win. Luton at home to Bedfordshire rivals and fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies, the pair often vying for the County Cup, Luton were the dominant side on this occasion, Elizabeth Sanders with a brace and a goal apiece for Jess McKay and Fiona Constable sealing a 4-0 win.

Stevenage away again in the quarter finals taking on Hertfordshire rivals Royston Tow Women who they would also beat in this season’s County Cup final. Tilly Fidler getting Stevenage off to a great start scoring in the 2nd minute, Nicole Farmer adding a 2nd late in the half, Royston scoring twice themselves, another goal from Fidler plus one from captain Lucy Webster seeing Stevenage into the last 4 with a 4-2 win. Luton hosting Colney Heath Ladies in their quarter final tie, the game though abandoned through an injury to a Colney Heath player rescheduled for a later date Luton leading 1-0 at the break going on to win 4-1 in the 2nd half with goals from Sanders, McKay, Tanya Blacksley and Tsaianne Leander.

A tough semi-final line-up with the Premier Division top 4 into the semi-finals, Both newly promoted sides Needham Market Women and AFC Sudbury Women doing very well. Stevenage travelling to Suffolk to play Needham Market. Amy Makewell from the spot to fire Stevenage into a 9th minute lead were to give away a penalty to see Lina Nagib equalise for Needham Market then hit another spot kick to put Needham Market in front. Becky Shephard striking in injury time to see it all square 2-2 at the break. A competitive 2nd half Rosy Wodhams curling in a strike to put Stevenage 3-2 ahead with 20 minutes left and secure their place in the League Cup Final. Luton at home to AFC Sudbury Women in their quarter final tie goals from Tsaianne Leander and Shanice Lewis the difference for Luton as they won through to the final.

A break to edit some pictures from the earlier game time to get back into The New Croft and refuel a cheeseburger ordered and get ready for the 2nd game of the day. The cloud cover hanging around, the supporters gathering the general consensus being for a close and physical match. Paving around the pitch with a small seated stand on one side beside the main building opposite the new dugouts.

Stevenage FC Women

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Mia O’Brien, Hannah Nesbitt, Lucy Webster (C), Nicole Farmer, Vicky Neal, Erin Price, Hannah Bodily, Rosy Wodhams, Amy Gooderham, Kelsey Millen & Amy Makewell. Subs – Grace Brooks, Jodie Bellinger, Becky Shephard, Emily Schofield & Tilly Fidler.

Luton Town Ladies

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Angelika Kopec-Knurec, Lilac Wilson, Adrienne Milton, Tanya Blacksley Elly Wade, Andie Dickens, Elizabeth Sanders, Ellie Sargeant, Fiona Constable, Jess McKay (C) & Shanice Lewis. Subs – Nancy Tucker, Hannah Major, Leyah Maddix, Maria Taylor & Shakeela Hussain.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Stevenage to get this season’s WERFL League Cup Final underway kicking-off the first half wearing red coloured shirts fading to black with red shorts and white socks. Luton lined up opposite wearing orange shirts and socks with dark blue shorts. The ball played back to Erin Price in midfield out to captain Lucy Webster on the right Luton rushing in to close the ball down out of play for a throw in. Stevenage looking to get the back on down the right for Kesley Millen, Ellie Sargeant moving to close her down clearing the ball.

  Price getting the ball back into goalkeeper Mia O’Brien to clear as Luton’s Fiona Constable left lifts the ball up to Shanice Lewis in attack. Lilac Wilson getting across to the left to tackle Amy Gooderham on the left as she looks to get a throw under control. Luton captain, Jess McKay picking the ball up through the middle travelling strikes the ball from 30 yards out her low ball straight into O’Brien to claim. 

Stevenage’s Amy Gooderham with Luton’s Adrienne Milton

  McKay winning the ball in the middle lifting it into the right channel, cut out but Hannah Nebbitt for Stevenage played forwards for Gooderham through the middle, closed down the ball regain by Rosy Wodhams as Stevenage push on tries to get it back into Gooderham left, Adrienne Milton defending for Luton back up the line Nebbitt closing down to knock the ball on into Gooderham left of the D 20 yards out curls a strike over the Luton crossbar. 

 

Elizabeth Sanders getting in to win the ball for Luton right side back for Milton put inside for Andie Dickens play spread into the left channel Constable with a low shot running in towards goal safely gathered by O’Brien. Gooderham looking to travel left on the ball for Stevenage a crossfield pass put out to Millen tracking on right side, Wilson getting in to steal the ball put it back for goalkeeper Angelika Kopec-Knurec to clear. A fast paced start to the game Luton rushing on to close Stevenage down win the ball get it into McKay and Lewis up top.

Andie Dickens

 

 Kopec-Knurec out to the top of her area to gather the ball before Millen can get to the pass on the right as Webster drives on with the ball through the middle for Stevenage. Luton very vocal encouraging one another to get into the opposition. Sanders getting about the park looking to win the ball puts it out to Sargeant on the left, Webster winning the header to clear. Luton from a throw on the left inside the Stevenage half to Lewis right of the area knocks it down to the top of the area right of the D for Dickens to run onto her 1st time strikes swerving through the area as it sails wide of the right post. 

Vicky Neal

 Sanders looking to plough her way through the middle going shoulder to shoulder with Stevenage centre back Vicky Neal heading for the box Neal does well holding her up, getting the free-kick. Wodhams threading the ball forwards into the left channel for Makewell making a move out to the flank deep, Milton putting in the challenge the ball out for a throw. Nebbitt getting forwards to support Gooderham as Stevenage attack on the left the ball held up well fed inside to Makewell left corner of the area, holding off a defender plays the ball across the top of the area Wodhams leaving in to Hannah Bodily to run onto a strike beyond her the shot blocked by Luton’s Elly Wade out behind for a corner. 

Elly Wade

  In low towards the near post Kopec-Knurec down well to grab it Luton look to counter the ball with Milton on the right lifted on for Lewis going through the middle won by Nicole Farmer for Stevenage. A tense encounter the two sets of players into each other Luton looking to close the ball down. Nebbitt on the left outside the box turns on the ball to cross in central, Makewell seeing her shot charged down deflected out for Constable to clear. Bodily on for Wodhams central Stevenage send it on for Makewell inside the area, Wade blocking her shot the ball deflected behind for the corner.

  The ball angle in under the crossbar Kopec-Knurec up well to get a fist on the ball turn it wide out the left side for another corner. Cleared straight bac to the corner taker tries to hit it back in across goal on the volley goes behind. Webster picking the ball up for Stevenage driving on through the middle going all the way as she exchanges a one two with Wodhams, arriving top of the area, Wade in to close her down. Wodhams sending a great ball into Gooderham on the left, Milton getting in to defend well for Luton. 

Luton goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec-Knurec

Luton sending players up from the back as they win a free-kick inside the Stevenage half to the right of the centre circle, Wilson on the ball played in deep to the far post Wade knocking the ball down into the keeper. 

 GOAL! Constable up on the left playing the ball into Lewis laying it into Mckay driving on central central taking the ball on into the right of the D before getting her foot over the ball to smash a powerful strike past the keeper to put Luton into the lead midway through the 1st half 0-1.

Jess McKay putting Luton into the lead

  Stevenage looking for a quick response out to Nebbitt forwards on the left putting the ball on for Gooderham takes the ball down into the corner turning inside moving into the box  her low cross put straight at the keeper. Bodily getting the ball out to Millen on the right for Stevenage coming to the top of the area squares a cross in near side for Makewell, Tanya Blacksley in to close her down for Luton as she goes to shoot.

Tanya Blacksley

  Wade bringing down Wodhams inside the box as she looks to turn on the ball played into her from the right, the referee pointing to the spot, Penalty! Makewell on the ball goes for power looking to place it top corner, instead misses sending it over the bar. 

  Blacksley in again to put in the block on Makewell right of the area as she looks to turn and shoot the ball coming into her off a throw. Luton looking to break from a Stevenage corner the ball right put on for McKay attempt to head it on for Lewis racing on left channel, Farmer intercepting for Stevenage. Farmer in again to cut the ball out stepping out to head the ball away as Sanders right turns to play the ball in along the top of the area. 

 Luton closing the ball down in the middle well, Sargeant then Dickens playing the ball out to Lewis top right corner outside the box puts a shot in across goal narrowly wide of the far post. Lewis across to the left to press the ball high putting it back to McKay 20 yards out to blast goalwards, O’Brien down to save pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left. Wade knocking the ball on near side, the free-kick given away as Sanders fouls Nebbitt going for the ball. Neal winning the ball well against Luton’s Sanders as the ball lifted on for her. 

  Sanders covering alot of ground for Luton getting across the pitch to close the ball down on the right has Milton bursting on past her given the ball, Milton sends a cross in low across the top of the Stevenage area cut out by Price. The ball on Luton’s left rolled inside for McKay 25 yards out sees it across her body turning to strike sends the ball over the crossbar. 

  Stevenage come left themselves Nebbitt getting ahead of Gooderham as she plays the ball on into the full back using the outside of her boot to deliver a cross into the top of the six yard box, behind Millen closing in central lays it out to the onrushing Wodhams to strike on the run from 10 yards out the ball crashing into the base of the right post and out for a goal kick. Sargeant down over on the far side with an injury for Luton the trainer on to administer treatment is back to her feet able to play on as plays come over to the benches to take on fluids.

Stevenage’s Amy Makewell

  Into the closing stages of the first half Stevenage with a free-kick right of the circle players up from the back as the ball in dropped into the area, Milton in to take the ball off the head of Neal to clear for a corner kick. Into the mix Price looking to attack it, Luton defending well close to goal to win a goal kick as the ball is turned wide far side. Sanders fouling Farmer as the Luton midfielder looks to take the ball on left channel, Luton not amused with the decision.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-1 Luton Town Ladies

  A highly committed tussle Luton working hard to close Stevenage down get hold of the ball, players winning their individual battles, Sanders looking to get on with McKay and Lewis in the attack making some good runs, McKay driving on to open the scoring mid way through the first half. Stevenage have had chances to equalise missing a penalty and striking the post, a close game as everyone predicted a single goal in it all to play for in the 2nd half. 

  Doesn’t appear to be any changes as the sides come back out for the start of the 2nd half, Stevenage looking to get at Luton as their opponents get the 2nd half underway. Stevenage almost undone straight away as Dickens closes the ball down put forwards for McKay breaking in into the right channel wide of the D going shoulder to shoulder with Neal holding off the defender to shot sending it past the on rushing O’Brien the ball crashing against the post deflected out across the goal loose, Farmer able to get there first to launch clear. 

  Milton pressing on down Luton’s right, Nebbitt in to challenge for Stevenage. A concern for Stevenage Wodhams hurt in the build up, has been a strong player for Stevenage in recent game unable to continue Stevenage forced into a change bringing on Becky Shephard. Sanders disrupting the Stevenage midfield closing players down. Milton tackling Gooderham the ball back into the middle of the park Sanders in to win it back for Luton on for Dickens puts it into McKay pulling right 25 yards out sends a shoot up to land on the roof of the net. 

 GOAL! Luton surge forwards Constable away on the left down towards the top of the area wide to flash a cross in central, attacked by Sanders, Price in to close her down the ball ricocheting off the pair out to Lewis free to the right of goal reacts quickly the ball into her feet digs out the shot lifting it rising into the top corner to double Luton’s lead 0-2. 

Shanice Lewis doubling Luton’s lead

Luton building on a strong opening to the 2nd half to score a 2nd goal, a further set back for Stevenage as they look to rally coming left the ball from deep cross to Gooderham breaking into the box from the right Kopec-Knurec out well to close her down sliding in to save at her feet. Intense as Luton go to close the ball down no quarter given the bench vocal encouraging Luton to get after the ball, Dickens and Sanders strong in the middle. Sanders getting back to challenge Millen as Webster bombs on through the middle Millen putting the ball in as Webster enters the D, Wade close putting in the blocking tackle. 

Lucy Webster

  Shephard on for Makewell central as Stevenage look to add some urgency to their play, lifted on for Gooderham on the left, Luton hold thier line catching her offside. Dickens sending the ball out to Constable on the left curls a cross in to the top of the area won by Stevenage’s Price. Stevenage making a double change bringing off Makewell and Gooderham for Emily Schofield and Tilly Fidler in attack. Stevenage with a throw high on the right the cross long charged down by Sargeant cleared Luton threaten to break, Lewis looking to get away through the middle, Price getting back on her defending well for Stevenage. 

Elizabeth Sanders

Luton come right Sanders up with Lewis the cross into the top of the area won by Bodily. Stevenage struggling to clear the ball as Luton push up on their box half cleared to the left falling to Constable hits it wide on the half volley. Lewis taking the ball out to right on for Sanders wide to lift a cross into the box, Neal winning the ball up against McKay, then gets fouled trying to play it out. 

  Wade getting in the way of everything inside the box up the other end as Stevenage attempt to find a way through on goal. Millen tracking back hurt as her goes to defend for Stevenage. Another double change made with Millen coming off along with Nebbitt, Grace Brooks on at left bac with Jodie Bellinger on to attack on the right with a little over 20 minutes left to play. A few tempers flaring is an intense contest. 

 Luton getting a free-kick out wide Constable to put a dangerous ball into the six yard box central in front of the keeper, O’Brien beating it down as she goes down the ball loose Neal doing brilliantly as she gets in to protect the keeper letting the ball roll across her body as Lewis closes her down. O’Brien stays down after but is okay after treatment. Luton looking strong on their right Milton getting on to support Sanders as she pulls wide the cross flashed into the area cut out by Neal away for a throw in. 

Erin Price with Shanice Lewis

  Into Mckay wide smashes a hard shot across the face of goal, Sanders closing in far post stretching can’t quite get there to divert it home. Luton with a strong spell Stevenage struggling for an answer. Another free-kick for Luton put in from wide cleared by Price, no break on however as Dickens gets the ball back for Luton to keep the pressure on. Sargeant with a turn and swing from distance dragged wide of the left post. 

Hannah Bodily

 Stevenage frustrated trying to lift it as they look to get themselves back into the game. Luton hungry for the ball determined to close it down. McKay with a wild strike over from the angle.  

 GOAL! Stevenage with a diagonal ball up into the top of the area for Schofield left of the D, looking to see it down take inside to shoot is fouled by the on rushing keeper. Penalty! Kopec-Knurec shown the yellow card. Grace Brooks over Stevenage’s 2nd penalty hits it to the keepers left Kopec-Knurec going the right way getting something on the ball but too much power behind the ball to keep it out Stevenage with a goal back in the 77th minute 1-2.

Grace Brooks scoring from the spot

  Sargeant picking up a yellow card for Luton. Sanders driving on down the right firing a cross in along the face of goal neither Dickens nor Lewis chasing in can get a touch. Webster at the back on for Shephard left lifts a diagonal ball up towards Fidler top of the  turns to put her strike wide past the right post 

Luton making a double change bringing on Hannah Major and Maria Taylor for Sanders and Wilson. The game moving into the final 5 minutes of regular play opening up as Stevenage look to press on leaving opportunities to exploit at the back as they have to gamble. Luton digging in Constable looking to relieve the pressure on the eft taking the ball on Farmer getting it back for Stevenage inside for Bodily looks for Schofield, Wade defending for Luton then wins the ball for a 2nd time a Shephard plays it back in from the left.

  Bellinger fouled on halfway to the right Farmer putting the free-kick inside, Taylor defending for Luton lifted forwards for Lewis in attack, Farmer getting back on her just about winning the ball. Tense Lewis taking the ball into the corner looking to eat up time into injury time Makewell back on for Stevenage an extra attacker bringing of Webster in defence. Leyah Maddix on for Luton replacing Lewis up top. Everybody sent up for Stevenage bar the keeper Luton defending their box, Wade strong, Dickens back too. 

Jodie Bellinger with Fiona Constable

 Stevenage with a free-kick out on the left into Price helps it out to the right with Farmer up joining Bellinger given the ball cuts inside Blacksley blocking for Luton they get on the counter attack the ball Maddix running on with the ball through the middle Neal in to charge her down well, McKay out the loose ball to the right shooting over. 

 Sargeant out to Maddix on the left goes into the corner before being fouled, the Luton free-kick cleared by Neal, then Dickens with a high boot giving the free-kick away top of the area. Wade cutting out a ball fed into Fidler up top. Stevenage with one last chance to push everyone up winning a free kick left of the circle played long goes through every one out wide for a goal kick. 

Full time Stevenage FC Women 1-2 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton Town Ladies celebrate winning a cup double adding the ERWFL League Cup to their Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup success. A strong combative performance to get in to win the ball through out showing great energy to get amongst Stevenage leading by a single goal at the break were strong at the start of the 2nd half hitting the post before doubling their leaf. Stevenage struggling for an answer at times getting a goal back from the penalty spot to set up a tense final 10 minutes however Luton were determine in defence holding on giving nothing away to win the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day again another difficult choice to make several strong contenders. Stevenage’s Amy Gooderham getting on well down the right creating opportunities linked up well with Hannah Nebbitt coming forwards. Vicky Neal putting in some vital tackles. Rosy Wodhams looking to get forwards into some good positions before coming off injured. For Luton, Elly Wade was superb at the back winning the ball, and getting out to block. Andie Dickens solid in the middle winning the ball preventing the midfield getting on, in turn allowing Elizabeth Sanders to get on put herself about wining the ball and making some excellent runs into the channels. The award though goes to full back Adrienne Milton had a excellent game at right back getting in to win the ball and winning her tackles. 

Luton Town Ladies 2022/23 ERWFL League Cup winners

Congratulations to Luton Town Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Cup Final.

 Another enjoyable day at Haverhill for the ERWFL Finals Day, rarely does the league disappoint with action, alot of talent on show. An entertaining game, tense tight as predicted, Luton joyous to emerge as victors. My thanks to Daniel Forde an Chris Abbott from the ERWFL committee for their help today… one game left and the season’s one.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 5th February

ERWFL Premier Division

It is becoming an intense battle at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division with just 4 points separating the top 6, all with ambitions to win the title an achieve promotion to the FAWNL. Today’s it’s a clash of the top two with leaders Luton Town Ladies away to Hertfordshire rivals Stevenage FC Women.

  Luton Town Ladies now back on top after setting the pace early on, the chasing pack gaining ground Stevenage FC Women briefly on top themselves just 2 points back in 2nd. Behind them all on 18 points newly promoted sides AFC Sudbury Women & Needham Market Women along with Haringey Borough Women and Essex side Bowers & Pitsea Ladies.

  Stevenage FC Women looking to bounce back to the FAWNL at the 1st attempt suffering relegation last season ending a 6 year stay in the FAWNL, recoding a 6th placed finish along the way. Achieving promotion to the FAWNL though no easy task as today’s opponents Luton Town Ladies will testify. The ERWFL Premier Division featuring some strong sides very competitive with just the title winners going up. Stevenage though are well placed to mount a title challenge assembling a strong squad, briefly taking over the lead a fortnight a go a 1-0 loss in a controversial game at Haringey Borough Women last Sunday seeing them drop back to 2nd. Amy Makewell leading goal scorer with 11 goals from 10 appearances, Becky Shepard and Emily Schofield with 6 and 5 respectfully. Have played 3 games more than Luton so a positive result is vital to stop them pulling away.

  Luton Town Ladies themselves a long established side in the FAWNL their run in the 4th tier coming to an end 3 season’s ago. The Covid pandemic disruption no doubt hindering their attempts to get back to the FAWNL are no back in strength ready to make a solid promotion push. Got off to a flying start with a 100%, 8 game winning streak seeing them pull away from the chasing pack. Were dragged back into the mix by the sad withdrawal of Harlow Town Ladies due to the pitch issues at the Harlow Arena, those points 6 in total wiped off saw those behind right back in it. A draw with King’s Lynn Town Ladies their only points dropped so far returned to the top with a 3-0 home win against Royston Town Ladies last Sunday. Jess Mckay and Lil Sanders are both on 11 goals from 13 appearances each with Leyah Maddix netting 8 from 13 played. Nikki Baker stepping down as first team manager, Rob Burton taking on the role this season with Myles Maddix as head coach.

The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, situated by the Hertfordshire FA’s offices the artificial pitch and stadium seeing a number of improvements in recent seasons with an updated bar and cafe area behind the main stand serving hot and old drinks. The main stand covered offering plenty of seating with terraced stands behind one goal and the opposite side of the pitch, where I headed to today to have the low sun at my back, albeit putting me in the shade in what was otherwise a pleasant, mild and still day with no wind or rain forecast excellent playing conditions.

Stevenage FC Women

 Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Tea Oldroyd, Lucy Webster (C), Anna Re, Nicole Farmer, Vicky Neal, Holly Greenwood, Hannah Bodily, Erin Price, Jodie Bellinger, Kelsey Millen & Emily Schofield. Subs – Katie White, Shianne Swarres, Becky Shephard, Amy Gooderham & Amy Makewell.

Luton Town Ladies

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Angelika Kopec, Maria Taylor, Hannah Major, Tanya Blacksley, Elly Wade, Kiera Palmiero, Jess McKay (C), Fi Constable, Andie Dickens, Lil Sanders & Leyah Maddix. Subs – Hannah Payne, Shanice Lewis, Shakeela Hussain, Adi Milton & Lilac Wilson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   Both sides naming 5 on the bench with plenty of attacking options to bring on, Luton to get the match underway wearing orange shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing red top coloured shirts fading to black about the middle, red shorts with white socks.

The ball played back to captain Jess McKay in the centre of midfield she clips a diagonal pass long out to the right as Andie Dickens breaks up the line, Anna Re dealing with the threat at left back for Stevenage. Play paused with an injury on the far side of the pitch, Stevenage’s Emily Schofield having taken a knock before the dig outs the trainer called on, Schofield accessed and waved back on as play resumes. Lil Sanders showing good pace in attack linking up well with Dickens on the right in the early exchanges as Luton press the ball and get it moving quickly.

Stevenage captain Lucy Webster at right back has a decent throw on her as she looks to get Kelsey Millen away up the flank, McKay tracking back to lunge in with the challenge take the ball away from the attacker. From the resulting throw higher up the pitch Webster gets the return pass down the line and wraps her foot around the ball to send a dangerous cross into the six yard box, long Jodie Bellinger latches onto her inside the area but can’t smuggle her shot past goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec as she stoops to grab up the ball.

Stevenage’s Jodie Bellinger

A competitive midfield battle going on Luton moving in quickly to close Stevenage down on the ball, Erin Price however managing to evade a tackle stretching forwards to lift her pass long out to Millen breaking on the right wing in behind, Tanya Blacksley comes out from the centre to charge down her cross. Millen finding space on the right a good outlet for Stevenage as they continue to be harried on the ball in the centre of the park, bringing the ball inside links up with Price the midfielder unable to thread the ball behind an organised Luton back line.

Luton’s Tanya Blacksley

Two sides looking to get at each other no one afforded much time on the ball, neither wanting it looking to get the ball moving, Stevenage caught out with a high line as Kiera Palmiero sends the ball forwards for Sanders racing clear out wide left her ball driven into the box from the angle racing through the six yard box Leyah Maddix getting it under control left side turning back inside unleashing a low drive towards goal, a Stevenage defender blocking it with goalkeeper Tea Oldroyd down having it covered behind.

Stevenage’s Hannah Bodily with Luton’s Leyah Maddix

Luton with good pace up top Maddix getting onto the ball central carrying it forwards, sending it through for Sanders clear of the defence, Oldroyd aware of the threat quickly out of her area to kick the ball clear, Fi Constable closing down well to take on possession left side bringing it down for the shot, swerving in towards goal, the curl may well have seen it race narrowly wide of the top corner, however Oldroyd has gotten back into position and leaping up snatches the ball down safely. Luton getting on top in midfield putting the Stevenage defence under pressure with Constable wriggling free on the left wing driving into the corner her cross into the box headed away by Vicky Neal, coming back to Constable, winning a corner kick. Players up from the back the far post attack as the inswinging delivery comes in however a push is spotted by the referee Stevenage have the free kick.

Luton’s Fi Constable

McKay is dominating the midfield for Luton in the opening 15 minutes with the ball at her feet powers her way forwards evading two tackles before releasing a long pass out to the right, a little too much on it for Maddix to chase down. Millen out on the right remains the best outlet for Stevenage to counter as Price picks her out with the past in behind whips a great ball into the box bouncing through the six yard box to the far post Schofield after it held off by a defender the attacker can’t get enough on the ball to send it past the keeper as Kopec comes to claim.

Luton captain, Jess McKay

Neal with a timely interception at the back cutting out the attempted through ball for Sanders as she attempts to spin in behind. A strong pressing game from Luton getting into Stevenage forcing errors inviting mistakes while getting the ball moving quickly when they have possession. Sanders is down for Luton on halfway looks to have picked up a knock, needs to come off the visitors making a change sending on Shanice Lewis to join Maddix in attack. The game being played at a high tempo while having a cagey edge to it.

Stevenage’s Vicky Neal

Luton with a free-kick inside the Stevenage half right of the centre circle players coming forwards from the back as the ball is flighted in to the near post attacked Elly Wade very nearly connecting with the header, wouldn’t have counted however as the offside flag is up against her. Luton showing good energy frustrating Stevenage who want to press themselves but have the middle so congested it’s had to pick a pass. Hannah Major doing well at the back for Luton on the right as Stevenage look to get forwards with Schofield and Bellinger combining.

Emily Schofield

Constable attacking on the left for Luton cutting back inside across the top of the box 20 yards out fires it across to the right side, Re turning to charge down Dickens as she lines up a shot. Kopel’s turn to come rushing out of her area to clear as Re clearing the ball from the back almost sends Bellinger through to attack the area. Stevenage need someone to get thing’s going give the hosts some thrust and that person is the captain herself as brings the ball under control halfway on the right she shifts infield going to a powerful run forcing her way all the way into the box left of the D, before being chopped down by Major. Penalty!

Stevenage captain, Lucy Webster

Major is shown a yellow card. Bellinger the player placing the ball on the spot to take the set piece for Stevenage. Her strike send it low to close to the keeper, Kopec going the right way down to her left to get her body behind the ball and save turning it away to the left, scrambling across goal between the keeper and her defence prevent any follow up getting through the ball cleared long.

Angelika Kopec saving the penalty

Lewis coming forwards with the ball for Luton heading central has Sanders up in support, the move breaking down as she fouls Neal off the ball. Dickens a threat on the right for Luton going on before sending a cross from the touchline deep into the box, Webster heading it clear for Stevenage at the far post. Half a hour played and Stevenage make their first change in midfield bringing off Greenwood and sending on Shianne Swarres. Straight into the action in to win the ball on the left linking up with Bellinger the ball crossed into the Luton area cleared by Maria Taylor. Stevenage press the ball in the final third coming to Swarres 20 yards out clips a high ball up into the box has Kopec back pedalling back on her line the ball drops onto the crossbar and over.

 Webster getting forwards on the right tracking inside sees a deflected shot claimed by the keeper. From Oldroyd’s goal kick Swarres on halfway heads the ball on for Millen her touch up top taking her away to the right away from her marker moving into the right channel opts for the early shot 20 yards out rising but never troubling the keeper. Swarres’ introduction having an immediate impact. Stevenage getting after the ball better taking the game to their opponents. Swarres winning control of the ball on halfway threading a pass into Schofield left channel knocking in on heads for the box has her heels clipped right on the edge by Major, risky when already on a yellow. Stevenage have a set-piece in a dangerous position left corner outside the box players forwards as Swarres stands over it.  Strikes it well angling in towards goal past Kopec smashes down off the cross bar then scrambled clear by the Luton defence. Stevenage ending the first half strong Swarres from another set-piece from distance to the right smashing it low past the far post.

Stevenage (& Women’s Football East sponsored player) Shianne Swarres

  Sanders ready to return to the field for Luton coming back on for Lewis. Wade defending well top of the area on Schofield as the Stevenage attacker looks to bring the ball on from the left. Maddix pulled down on the right Luton with the free kick 30 yards out the strong ball in no one can reach it as it whistles in past the far post. Maddix bringing the ball on well through the middle for Luton lifting it out to the right wing for Dickens her cross dipped in near post held well by Oldroyd getting down to catch. 

 Kopec out smartly to the left corner of her area to get hold of the ball as Millen looks to break as a good diagonal pass is released from Price in the middle. The first half draws to a close with the goals still intact… just!

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-0 Luton Town Ladies

  Goalless at the break, Stevenage with the better chances striking the woodwork twice and seeing a penalty saved. That said for much of the first half Luton were the better side starting the game well closing the ball done, competitive in the middle showing good energy though out. Frustrating Stevenage moving the ball about looking to carve out an opening. The middle of the park often congested, Webster looking to get her side going with a thrusting run that led to the penalty ultimately saved by Kopec. A change on the half hour seeing the introduction of Swarres and Stevenage getting hold of the ball in the middle and applying some pressure of their own ending the first period strong while Luton look a threat on the counter with pace up top. Well poised for the 2nd half.

  Both sides unchanged at the start of the 2nd half, Luton out early ready to go as Stevenage get the 2nd half underway. The ball sent on the diagonal out to the right, dealt with comfortably by Taylor for Luton. Webster getting forwards well on the left for Stevenage at start of the 2nd half tracking inside picking out Swarres central 30 yards out she sends it on for Millen attacking right wing her cross whipped into the box cleared by Blacksley. Stevenage press the ball in the final third successfully appealing for a hand ball and getting the free-kick in a threatening position 25 yards out to the right of the D. Players forwards as Farmer stands over it, catches it well floating it in towards goal loops down onto the cross bar the woodwork coming to Luton’s rescue again.

Nicole Farmer

   The free-kick count beginning to add up Stevenage with another from deep flicked on outside the box cut out well by Blacksley at the back for Luton. Re with an ambitious attempt from half way that sails over. Luton have the ball in the middle Maddix surging on has Constable to the left sends the ball on in turn threaded into the box for Sanders pulling off her marker left of goal Oldroyd rushing out to close her down goes to ground at her feet the striker taking the ball around her and shooting, the ball cleared off the line by Neal for Stevenage! 

Luton’s Lil Sanders

  GOAL! Looking threatening at the start of the 2nd half Luton expose Stevenage on the right to open the scoring. The midfield pass finding Dickens bursting away on the right wing heading for the by-line before sending a superb cross in along the face of goal to be met by Maddix at the far post to turn back across the keeper and in 0-1.

Leyah Maddix with the goal for Luton

  Luton make an immediate change after scoring breaking on Lilac Wilson for Major with Palmiero going to right back. Almost straight away an opportunity to extend the lead and McKay’s pin point pass from midfield finds Sanders pulling off into the channel right of goal into the box, setting up a 1 v 1 versus the keeper, Oldroyd back in her six yard box poised, as Sanders goes to strike it across her into the bottom corner, Oldroyd down smartly low getting a touch to deflect it wide beyond her far post for a corner kick. Oldroyd coming to claim as it is flashing in near side.

   Wade in hard on Bellinger catching her on the toes a painful one a free-kick out wide Webster to launch it into the box headed clear by the Luton defence. Dickens with the neat flick on as the ball is fed into her knocked on for Sanders the bounce however favouring Re allowing the full back to nick it away with her boot outside the D. Dickens with a 25 yard strike that swerves wide of the right post. Stevenage make a double change in the 57th minute bringing off Bellinger and Schofield with Becky Shephard and Amy Gooderham joining the attack. 

Luton’s Andie Dickens

  Webster strong going forwards on for Price the midfielder making ground evading two tackles before laying the ball off for Gooderham out wide left the substitute winning a throw then a corner. On the left a high looping ball dropping into a crowded six yard box, an infringement spotted Luton have possession. McKay is hauled down as she bursts forwards with the ball a free-kick top of the circle players up from the back the ball dropped into the box, Wade attacking it getting a glancing header sending it wide of the left post.

   Another shirt pull spotted, this time on Webster some 30 yards out players up into the box spots Gooderham totally unmarked free left sends her the pass shifting inside Gooderham attempted cross/shot flashes behind the goal. Luton with another change bringing off Dickens for Adi Milton. Is a competitive tussle between two committed sides. Millen appeared to have brought down Sanders, however it’s the Luton player that recieves the booking. The free kick right of the circle played early long to the far post with Gooderham closing in the ball too close to the keeper however Kopec claiming it. 

Luton goalkeeper, Angelika Kopec

   Luton attack on the right Sanders with McKay in support the ball taken to the by-line the cross lifted in taken by Oldroyd. Luton defending their box as Stevenage press, Milton unlucky to have a handball adjudged against her another set-piece for Stevenage in a threatening position 20 out left of the D. Before it’s taken Luton making a change bringing off Maddix with Lewis going back on. 

  GOAL! Webster over the set-piece a two player wall giving her a good sight on goal, strikes it high looping up towards the far post has Kopec worried the keeper throwing herself across her goal can’t reach it as it drops under the cross bar and goes in off the upright for the equaliser 1-1.

  20 minutes left to play Stevenage getting back on level terms the woodwork on their side at last as Webster sends the free-kick home. Katie White introduced for Stevenage out on the right replacing Millen. Swarres holds of Milton as the Luton player attempts to get forwards her attempted shot from 30 plus yards out falling wide. A robust challenge on Re sees another decision going against Luton whose frustration is beginning to show. McKay with a fantastic turn in the middle to release the ball forwards Sanders looking to deceive Neal drawing her one way then turning inside, Neal experienced however getting her left heel up to stop the ball in it’s tracks kill off the attack. 

Adi Milton

  Swarres not afraid to have a go from distance with a vicious strike fired over from 25 yards out. Luton making a change bringing off Taylor for  ex-Stevenage player Shakeela Hussain. Bodily with a rare surge forwards on the ball  threatening as she links up with Price who finds Swarres to the right back inside Bodily is fouled outside the box by Wade. Webster over the set-piece a little further out than her goal, sweeps the ball in to be attacked far post Price the closest to it but no contact out for a goal kick. 

Hannah Bodily

  Webster with good defensive work having already gone to ground trying to deal with the initial threat posed by Sanders right of the D, sweeps the ball away before the attacker can reclaim it. Luton get a free-kick inside the Stevenage half Wade up from the back getting onto the end of it inside the box heading over. Luton bring Dickens back on for Luton replacing Sanders with 10 minutes left on the clock. Both sides still after one another the energy levels haven’t dropped the fouls adding up Stevenage using the width more with Gooderham on the left and White on the right. Bodily the latest player substituted with striker Amy Makewell coming on.

Luton’s Elly Wade

  White fouled out wide on the right Stevenage with another free-kick look a threat from a dead ball situation. Swarres to deliver the ball knocked down across the six yard box skips up to White at the near post lifts her hurried shot over the bar. Stevenage applying all the pressure now late in the game attacking on the right Makewell taking the ball off White on the right shifting inside to angle a cross into Gooderham inside the box at the far post, stooping to head the ball doesn’t get a firm enough touch to take it past Kopec the keeper claiming solidly. 

Shanice Lewis

  Lewis carrying the ball on for Luton left side sending a cross in towards the top of the area cut out by Neal. Stevenage are straight on the counter attack, Prices pass cut out by Wade at the back for Luton. Dickens with the ball on the right combining well with Hussain the cross into the box easy for the keeper. Gooderham driving on with the ball on the left Wade coming back to challenge on the by-line Gooderham winning a corner off the defender. Lifted in near post Kopec up well to knock it down and clear. The game moving into stoppage time Price with a diagonal ball out to the left looking for Shephard a corner won.

Erin Price with Jess McKay

  GOAL! One last chance for Stevenage to send players forwards into the box, one of those Neal hasn’t come forwards for a corner all 2nd half but then they have all been from the left this one is on the right. Shephard with a superb kick to angle the ball in across the face of goal with pace, players racing into meet it one of those Neal nails the header to bury the ball into the back of the net to win the game for Stevenage and races over to Shephard in celebration 2-1. 

Vicky Neal (6) scoring the winning goal

Little time left on the clock for Luton to get a goal back a sucker punch right at the end of the game, Stevenage scoring from another set-piece. The clock ticking down game management now from Stevenage win a free-kick run the ball into the corner.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 2-1 Luton Town Ladies

 The final whistle blows and Stevenage come back from a goal down to win it at the death to claim the 3 points and return to the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Strong and a threat from set-pieces all game the tally adding up as the game progressed. Luton starting the game the better winning the ball well and keeping Stevenage quiet, the game changing with a thrusting run from Stevenage’s captain and the resulting penalty, saved but it gave Stevenage the kick they needed then Swarres’ introduction brought a more competitive edge to the midfield. Goalless at the break Luton were to make a fast start to the 2nd half scoring early and with 2 good chances to add goals. Webster was to strike home the equaliser with 20 minutes left Stevenage coming back strong taking the game to Luton, almost held on but the set-pieces kept being given away with the winner coming from a corner at the death. A thrilling game at the top of the ERWFL.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a great game a good contest between two committed sides and several performances of note to mention. Firstly for Luton. Elly Wade was strong at the back with a number of important tackles and looked a danger from a set-piece. In the middle captain Jess McKay was strong, ran the show in the early stages with good tacking movement and passing. Andie Dickens was also excellent out on the right a threat going forwards creating opportunities in the final 3rd. For Stevenage, Vicky Neal had a strong game at the back reading the game well especially when her side was under pressure, popping up to score the winning goal. Shianne Swarres’ introduction changed the game for Stevenage making them more competitive in the middle and adding and edge to their attack. The award winner however was chosen before the final whistle and an in agreement with the match day award, goes to Stevenage captain Lucy Webster. Had a fantastic game at the back. When the game needed something extra she provided it giving her side the lift they needed got forwards well and scored the equalising goal.

  Another excellent contest from the top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Expect little else these days is a great league to watch and highly underrated. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups today much appreciated onto the next one.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 8th December

ERWFL Premier Division

 Back on the road this Sunday, a trip down to Essex to watch a game from the ever competitive ERWFL Premier Division, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies v Luton Town Ladies.

Highly competitive in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, Harlow Town Ladies leading the way opening up a gap at the top with 9 straight wins unbeaten so far this season. Incredibly close behind with just 5 points between the sides 2nd to 9th in the table. The standard improving year on year. 

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies playing at the highest level the club has been at winning promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division last season following a 2nd placed finish in Division One collecting their first piece of silverware too the Essex Women’s Trophy. Going from strength to strength since becoming Bowers & Pitsea having previously been Little Thurrock Dynamo’s. The main club itself housing excellent facilities that ground undergoing redevelopment. The core of the squad made up of players who have been with the club since it started this season bringing in a few new faces to bolster the ranks, Donna Fletcher from Hatfield Peveral, also joining from Hatfield Peveral attacker Yasmin Cowley who scored plenty of goals for her previous club as Hatfield rose through the league injured for much of last season undertaking a scholarship in America come the end of the season. Danni Jennings and Megan Harley from Rayleigh Town Ladies also coming in  along with Sade Walters and goalkeeper Violet Hickman. 

 Made a promising start in the Premier Division winning three of their opening 4 matches a run of poor results followed but the club have improved getting back to winning ways back to back wins putting them back amongst the chasing pack well clear of the bottom. Announcing this week an addition to their management team, Terry Harrison coming to the club from Harlow to work along side Darren Fraser and Daniel Foord.  Brings with him coaches Scott Chickelday and Ray Wells as the club looks to kick on.

Luton Town Ladies suffering relegation from the FAWNL last season. Following a period of relevant success in South East Division One challenging for a top 4 finish on several ocassions. Lost a few experienced players blooding alot of young players. Continue to do so have a strong youth set-up with several doing well for the first team. Have brought in defenders Elly Wade and Tanya Blacksley to give experience at the back. Set the early pace in the Premier Division as they look to bounce back straight away. A run in the FA Women’s Cup seeing them fall away from the top, amongst the chasing pack have lost just the once this season. Jess McKay top scorer on 11 goals not available today. Missing a few other presenting opportunities for younger players manager Nikki Baker giving 16-year-old Ellie Sargeant her first start. The sides meeting already this season in the FA Women’s Cup, Luton winning 3-0.

The Len Salmon Stadium the venue for today’s match the ground undergoing redevelopment a state of the art 3G playing surface and surrounding barrier already installed plus seated stands either side of the dugouts. The new addition the main stand a new one being build. Covered seating above the new changing rooms with plans ongoing for more improvements. The old clubhouse with bar and large function room. The weather overcast but dry little threat of rain the sun low in the sky quite a strong wind blowing from one goal mouth to the other.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Violet Hickman, Keira Adcock, Holly Moore, Donna Fletcher, Danni Jennings, Taylor Adcock (C), Yasmin Cowley, Courtney Fraser, Ebony Moore, Georgia Fraser & Megan Harley. Subs – Danielle Styles, Sade Walters, Sophie Dowman & Atlanta Fuwa.

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Kezia Hassall, Rebecca Ferris, Tanya Blacksley, Anne Folan, Elly Wade, Zara Carroll (C), Ellie Sargeant, Erica Byron, Olivia Abraham, Funmi Babalola & Rebecca Kane. Subs – Jade Horsley, Kelsey Gibson & Leah Tomlin.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  An accident on the M25 causing heavy delays affecting Luton’s journey kick-off put back 10 minutes. Luton switching ends at the coin toss to have the wind at their backs first half, Bowers & Pitsea to get the game underway wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. Luton in their all navy away kit. The ball pressed in the middle Luton gain possession play the ball out to the left wing, Olivia Abraham looking to take the ball on Keira Adcock across to defend gets fouled in the process winning a free-kick. 

Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on through the middle Yasmin Cowley on for Courtney Fraser she spreads play to the right, Ebony Moore looking to get in behind is tackled by Luton’s Tanya Blacksley. Bowers & Pitsea getting players up to press Luton in their final third, captain Taylor Adcock in to win the ball Ebony Moore almost through to the right can’t quite take the ball in her stride. Cowley fouled inside the Luton half a free-kick to Bowers & Pitsea players up as Donna Fletcher sends it in towards the top of the area the ball running through to Georgia Fraser right of the D, aims to turn into the shot Rebecca Ferris throwing out a leg defending for Luton, Bowers & Pitsea press the ball not cleared out to the right Taylor Adcock winning a corner taken short a shot blocked on the edge of the area, Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on the ball put across to Georgia Fraser left of goal curls a ball in towards goal, Kezia Hassell with a low catch claiming the ball in goal for Luton.

Olivia Abraham battling for possession of the ball with Bowers & Pitsea’s Keira Adcock.

A good start from the hosts closing the ball down well spreading play. Luton come forwards Ferris on the right putting the pass on for Rebecca Kane running into the channel, Danni Jennings going with her for Bowers & Pitsea putting in a great tackle to win the ball back. Jennings called into action at the back moments later for Bowers & Pitsea again against Kane as a fortunate deflection sees the attacker run in behind taking the ball into the area forced left by Jennings recovering well the defender preventing the cross. Luton beginning to find some momentum of their own Ferris forwards as the visitors attack making a run into the box as the ball is helped on Bowers & Pitsea goalkeeper Violet Hickman down bravely to save at her feet.

Taylor Adcock captaining Bowers & Pitsea bringing the ball on

Courtney Fraser with a long range shot struck 30 yards out off target as a defensive clearance is put straight to her. The wind behind then Luton have pace in attack with Kane and Funmi Babalola looking to make runs central and into the channels. Erica Byron getting forwards from a central position as the ball is fed through to her left side outside the box good close ball control jinks inside getting a shot away as she is closed down the ball put wide across the face of goal.

GOAL! 15 minutes gone and Luton open the scoring with a goal that is as route one as you’ll ever get. The ball in the hands on Hassell at the back launches it forwards wind assisted the Bowers & Pitsea centre backs both go for it and both miss bouncing on in behind Kane is clear to take it on into the box and set herself to send it wide of the keeper 0-1.

The tail wind strong and Luton are looking to use it to their advantage, a high clearance from Ferris on the right puts Kane away on the flank and she races after it, the angle against her as she strikes the ball on the volley her cross/shot put across the face of goal. Byron left side strikes a shot from 25 yards out the ball racing wide past the far post. Bowers & Pitsea build through the middle Taylor Adcock out to Ebony Moore right side down the line cuts it back for Georgia Fraser to fire in a diagonal ball low towards the near post Cowley with the run, Elly Wade defending for Luton.

Courtney Fraser playing the ball for Bowers & Pitsea

 Kane a constant threat in attack for Luton getting in behind after the ball put long on the left wraps her foot around the ball crossing the ball in towards the near post, Hickman able to get her gloves around the ball first not put off by Babalola running in. Folan defending for Luton, firstly stepping out from the back to break up a Bowers & Pitsea move through the middle, the 2nd time heading behind for a corner as the ball is crossed in from the right. The delivery from the corner over Fletcher jumping near post falls to Georgia Fraser no shot on lays it back to the top of the area for Courtney Fraser her ball fizzed back in collected by Cowley can’t dig it out of her feet to get a shot away before being closed down.

Luton’s Funmi Babalola challenging for the ball

  Abraham is brought down on the left attacking for Luton a free-kick awarded. Luton captain Zara Carroll a dead ball specialist to take out wide players forwards into the box she takes on the shot struck well the ball smashing against the crossbar dropping down into the area presented to Byron outside the six yard box her instinctive shot sent over on the volley.

Zara Carroll’s free-kick striking the bar for Luton

 The game quite open Bowers & Pitsea enjoying the better possession getting the ball forwards well the final ball lacking at times Luton keeping a good shape at the back. Kane in attack for Luton getting hold of the ball 25 yards out drives on twisting and turning to get into the area, Jennings getting back on her lunging in to make the tackle prevent her shooting the ball loose comes to Abraham to strike outside the area fires it wide across goal 

Rebecca Kane breaking in behind for Luton Town Ladies

 Half an hour gone and Bowers & Pitsea make the first change Fletcher coming off at the back to be replaced by Danielle Styles. Hassell kicking the ball long again bouncing on through Kane looking to get it under control, Jennings having given herself space to adjust getting to her to make the challenge and win the ball back. Megan Harley taking the ball on down the left makes ground winning a throw in in the corner, the ball headed on from the side of the area looping up, Hassell can claim above her head no one coming in, her resulting kick up field running on getting Luton a corner. 

Megan Harley bringing the ball forwards for Bowers & Pitsea

  Ellie Sargeant solid in the middle along side Carroll for Luton gets forwards running into space right as players are attracted to the left firing in a low cross Hickman down well at the top of her six yard box to pluck the ball into her body. 

  GOAL! 35 minutes played and Luton double their lead, Byron making some useful runs from midfield forwards in the left as Luton build 25 yards out strikes the ball well, a looping shot that flies over the keepers head and into the back of the net 0-2.

Erica Byron doubling Luton’s lead

  Harley with a great ball forwards cuts inside Luton defend, Cowley regains possession central presses on closed down top of the area plays it wide to Ebony Moore who wins Bowers & Pitsea a corner. Whipped in central taken confidently by Hassall. Attacking right side a throw in high up the pitch Keira Adcock plays in Ebony Moore tuning inside the box to get a shot away drilled wide at the near post. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying a strong spell towards the end of the first half another corner won left side Georgia Fraser putting in across the face of goal met on the volley at the far post by Jennings send over. 

 Entering the closing 5 minutes of the first half Bowers & Pitsea on the attack Harley on the ball left side playing the pass on for Courtney Fraser making the run into the channel cuts inside well to deliver a cross central into Georgia Fraser her first touch wrong footing the defender giving her space to shot set to pull the trigger Carroll dives in get a foot in to block the ball. Bowers & Pitsea keep the pressure on a throw won deep on the left Georgia Fraser crossing in Cowley can’t get it under control cleared out to the top of the box Keira Adcock latching onto it her shot held by the keeper. 

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll.

  Luton always ready to break hit Bowers & Pitsea on the counter Kane peeling off the defence onto a through ball to turn and strike left of the D, Hickman making a good save with her legs keeping the ball out. Carroll fouled bringing the ball forwards 35 yards out picks herself up to take it put in on target Hickman behind it palming the ball up clattering into the post as she pushes it away from the advancing attacker chasing in on the follow up. Okay after treatment. Bowers & Pitsea with one last attack in the first half Courtney Fraser winning the ball her pass forwards unable to fin Georgia Fraser running clear on the right, cleared straight to Cowley right outside the area can’t get a clean strike of the ball her scuffed shot gathered by the keeper.

Half-time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-2 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton leading 2-0 at the break have created the better opportunities in front of goal using the wind to their advantage. Solid at the back Bowers & Pitsea unable to get in behind have enjoyed the majority of the possession looking to move the ball around get players forwards the final ball lacking at times and the clinical finish lacking. Trailing by 2 goals pressure late on to try and find a goal to narrow the advantage Luton always ready to hit on the counter attack.

 A change for Bowers & Pitsea at half-time Sade Walters on for Courtney Fraser. The light starting to fade and with it the wind as Luton get the 2nd half underway. Taylor Adcock putting her foot in to win the ball in the middle for Bowers & Pitsea passes the ball forwards for Fraser she looks to release Ebony Moore on the right in behind the ball running into the box, Hassell quickly out able to claim first for Luton. Bowers & Pitsea pushing forwards at the start of the 2nd half Harley’s shot from outside the box taking a deflection as it runs wide across the six yard out out for a corner. The delivery into a congested six yard box, Luton scramble it away to safety. 

Tanya Blacksley looking to clear the ball for Luton

 Bryon takes hold of the ball in attack for Luton right side has support from Babalola out wide plays her in she takes on the shot on the angle Hickman down in front of goal central pushing the ball wide past the far post for a corner kick. Folan putting the ball in over.

  Jennings busy at the back for Bowers & Pitsea winning the race with Babalola to take the ball as Kane flicks it on. Kane beating the offside trap runs in behind central into the box, Jennings with a great recovery to get back on her putting in a challenge six yards out to prevent the shot getting the ball back to her keeper. Cowley up the other end 30 yards out with time and space not closed down encouraged to shoot puts the ball wide. Up the other end Kane is played through central into the box gets a shot away Hickman sliding in to block saving well the rebound out favouring her defence to clear. 

Ellie Sargeant battling in midfield for Luton Town Ladies

  Sargeant on the ball for Luton spots Abraham moving on the left the pass into her feet the flag goes up as she strays offside. Play stopped for an injury as Sargeant and Holly Moore collide the latter coming off worse is okay after receiving treatment. A higher line from Bowers & Pitsea now as they look to get a goal back Kane finding room in behind as she moves across the field away to the right strikes a shot on the half volley on target fizzed in Hickman palms the ball up into the air taking the catch even as Byron closes her down on the line. Hickman catching well from another Kane ball in from the right as she moves across the back line to get in behind beating the flag. 

  Sargeant putting the ball on for Abraham breaking left her diagonal ball into Kane top of the area, Styles in to make the tackle win it for Bowers & Pitsea. Luton make a change with just over 20 minutes left to play, Abraham coming off on the left, coming on Jade Horsley to make her Luton debut. Sophie Dowman on for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ebony Moore. Jennings with more superb work in defence for Bowers & Pitsea first defending against Kane as she looks to get away then standing up to block Babalola as she looks to drive on with the ball. The floodlights needed are switched on. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Danielle Styles

 Horsley on the left picking out Kane as she makes the run ahead of her into the channel Holly Moore defending for Bowers & Pitsea. The hosts get forwards to win a corner the ball played in near post defended by Luton’s Blacksley. The game open both sides looking for the next goal Bowers & Pitsea to pressure Luton late on, the visitors to make the 3 points safe Luton’s Horsley adding pace to the attack runs into space on the ball whips a great cross in across goal Babalola racing in heads over from six yards out. 

  Carroll back to cut out a cross put in from the left, Harley getting a 2nd opportunity to put the all in lands on the roof of the net. Byron brought down in the middle a free-kick for Luton another opportunity for Carroll to put the ball forwards knocked down well by Kane central top of the area into the path of Babalola her shot from 20 yards out straight into the gloves of the keeper. Ebony Moore back on for Bowers & Pitsea with a good piece control central lays the ball back for Holly Moore to curl in a shot from 25 yards out doesn’t trouble the keeper the game entering the final 5 minutes.  

 The wind returning getting decidedly chilly too. Harley firing in a shot from range drops short controlled by Fraser turns to lay it back to Dowman top of the box leaning back her attempt put over the bar. 

GOAL! Into the final minute and Luton hit Bowers & Pitsea with a late sucker punch to kill off the game. Byron lifting a great pass forwards Kane having beaten the offside trap on several ocassions is offside this time but no flag raised continues her run carrying the ball to the top of the area right of the D puts her foot through the shot sending a fiercely struck low drive past the keeper 0-3.

2 goals for Luton’s Rebecca Kane

  From the restart Fraser takes on the long range effort in an attempt to catch the keeper off guard, falls short however Hassell gathering. Kane and Babalola combining in attack on the right winning Luton a corner kick, defended by Fraser, Bowers and Pitsea race forwards on the counter attack Holly Moore carrying the ball forwards on to Ebony Moore inside to Dowman 25 out lays it back to Holly Moore to hit first time the ball racing narrowly wide of the post. 

Full time Bowers & Pitsea Ladies 0-3 Luton Town Ladies

  Luton winning 3-0 to claim the 3 points lift them up the Premier Division table. A solid performance keeping it tight at the back waiting for their opportunities to attack, 3 clinical finishes to win the game. Tight at the back hard to break down. Bowers & Pitsea enjoying good spell of possession moving the ball well, just lacking in the final third, good opportunities created just not exploited. 

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, several contenders as usual. For Bowers & Pitsea no doubting has to be Danni Jennings put in a real shift at the back on hand on several ocassions to put in the vital tackle. Overall hard to single out an individual for Luton the defence solid keeping a good shape. Carroll in the middle and Kane up front with some good runs the award though goes to Erica Byron several timely runs through the middle setting up Kane for her 2nd goal and a superb hit for her goal.

Always competitive in the ERWFL the Premier Division a strong league this year. Good to get a trip down to Essex in been a while. Safe to say I haven’t missed the M25 though. My thanks to both clubs for the team details as ever much appreciated.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 20th May

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Millie Daviss bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

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

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

Norwich City Ladies, Jodie Drake

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

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

Eilish Brogan claims the ball for Norwich City Ladies

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

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

Nicola Henman opens the scoring for Luton Town Ladies

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

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

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

Norwich City Ladies, Luka Goodfield

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

Jess McKay score for Luton Town Ladies to restore their lead

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

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

Norwich City Ladies, Sasha Diston

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

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

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

Luton Town Ladies captain, Zara Carroll

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

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

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

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

Nicola Henman on the attack for Luton Town Ladies.

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

Jodie Drake clearing the ball

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

Luton Town Ladies, Funmi Babalola

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

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

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

Luton Town Ladies, Dionne Manning

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

Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full time  Norwich City Ladies 2-3 Luton Town Ladies

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

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

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

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

 

Match Report – Luton Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

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

Match Report – Luton Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luton’s Zara Carroll with Cambridge’s Tahnee Perfect

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

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

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

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

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

Michelle Byrne on the ball for Luton Town Ladies


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cambridge United WFC right back, Emma Jenkins

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

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

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