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Match Report – Royston Town Women v Watford Ladies Development

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Sunday 2nd November

ERWFL Premier Division

 A trip to Hertfordshire this Sunday to take in a game from the ERWFL Premier Division. Incredibly tight in the league with just 6 points separating the top 10 sides, Royston Town Women currently 5th play host to 2nd placed Watford Ladies Development.

 The ERWFL Premier Division always highly competitive representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. 12 sides competing for promotion to the FAWNL above. Stevenage FC Women having made a strong investment in their squad this season leading the way currently unbeaten gunning for the title, but can’t afford to let their foot of the pedal with the chasing park right on their tail, tight just 6 points between them and current 10th placed side Wroxham Women.

 Royston Town Women themselves have added to their squad this season following a strong campaign last time out that saw the Hertfordshire side, leading the way for much of the season, eventually overhauled by Luton Town Ladies, finished 3rd while retaining the Hertfordshire County Cup following their 1st ever win the competition the season before. Have been busy recruiting new faces to add to the squad while re-establishing their Development side, playing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One.

 Kiaya Payne, Hannah Bodily and Bella Simmons the latest trio to join Royston. Payne joining from today’s opponents Watford Ladies Development. Hannah Bodily joining from local rivals Stevenage after a couple of season’s was regularly a top performer playing in midfield. Bella Simmons joins on a dual registration from FAWNL side Cambridge United WFC and has 4 goals already from her 5 appearances. Emma Slater always amongst the goals for Royston leading the way this time around too, finding the back of the net for 11 goals. With Jordanne Sillitoe and Laura Mills both on 8 goals apiece.

 Watford Ladies Development making the move across to the ERWFL a couple of season’s ago as the league pushed to reach it’s full potential of having 36 clubs playing across it’s 3 Division’s, won the Division One South title in their debut season in the East to win promotion to the Premier Division, retaining that status last season. Ali Abdulkadir taking over as first team manager this season a strong start seeing them win 3 out of their 4 opening matches propelling them into 2nd spot in the table a mixed bag of results since seeing them firmly in the cluster of side sides chasing leaders Stevenage.

 An independent women’s football club have recently joined forces with Watford FC Women playing in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, seeing the two leading women’s football clubs in Watford combine to provide a strong pathway for girls and women’s football in the Watford area, with close to 30 youth teams, have a Development side playing in the Beds and Herts women’s football league. Jada Deane top scorer with 6 goals to her name. Rebecca Lovelace and Olivia Oshodi both on 5 goals. With Madeleine Pollard and Kaya Bamber on 4 each.

 Royston Town FC’s Garden Walk stadium the venue for todays match, the sloping grass pitch situated in a residential area tucked away behind houses. Royston work hard to promote their women’s team an enhance the matchday experience. The clubhouse and bar open along with a food van serving hot and cold drinks. Have a merchandise stand too, selling amongst other thing’s some very stylish trading cards featuring the women’s team’s players and staff. Into November still relatively mild with the sun bright over the stadium, a potential problem at the lower end of the ground, decidedly chilly in the shade however, with a variety of stands seated and terraced dotted about the ground.

Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Dilly Haslehurst, Kiaya Payne, Jodie Donley, Amy Houghton (C). Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Ri Badal, Amy Reed, Laura Mills & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Tilly Want, Emma Slater, Stacey Roper, Eloise Cattini & Ailsa Heal.

Royston Town Women

 Watford Ladies Development starting XI – Shannon Swallow, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads, Georgia Elmer-Roads, Amelie Elliott, Aliyah Cristal Anderson, Phoebe Brown, Ella Parker, Jessica Wright, Rebecca Lovelace (C), Isla Bellamy & Jada-Chey’ah Graham. Subs – Sophie Adamou & Sofia Jones-Ghartouchent.

Watford Ladies Development

A late change in the starting line-up for Royston with, Dilly Haslehurst coming in for Emma Slater who drops to the bench. 5 on the bench for Royston, Watford naming just the two substitute’s, it’s the visitors to have the kick-off in the 1st half attacking down the slope, wearing red and yellow vertical striped shirts with red shorts and red and yellow socks. Royston wearing their home strip, white shirts and socks with black shorts. 

Captains, Rebecca Lovelace and Amy Houghton with today’s match officials

 The ball played back into midfield lifted long through the middle comfortably dealt with by the Royston defence, coming to Sofia Castiglione in midfield looks to thread a ball through into the right channel for Ri Badal to attack, Watford goalkeeper, Shannon Swallow sharp out to the edge of her box to grab the ball up into her gloves. Watford build on the left the ball fed on for Jada Chey’ah Graham, pushes down wing the ball played into the box, Kyana Payne across on the cover from left back to intercept and clear for the hosts.

  Both sides probing in the early exchanges snapping in to try and steal the ball in midfield a few free-kicks given away as a result. Royston with a set-piece on halfway the ball launched up to the top of the area, Amelie Elliott defending for Watford, fouled in the process winning the free-kick. Amy Reed showing attacking intent for Royston pushed up on the left comes inside linking up with Castiglione, bombing on looking for the return pass into the channel, Swallow is again alert to the threat rushing out to the top of her box to claim the ball.

Shannon Swallow coming to collect the ball for Watford

  The visitors look to mount a rapid counter attack, captain, Rebecca Lovelace carrying the ball on through the middle, Jodie Donley closing her down at the back to clear the ball out for a throw. Both sides keen to get the ball into the channels, Royston winning the ball back in the middle, Hannah Bodily combining with Castiglione taking the ball on threaded on for Reed left side, Elliott getting in between her and the ball to see it back to her keeper to clear.

 Royston snapping in to win the ball pushing players on Reed and Badal looking to join Jordanne Sillitoe and Laura Mills in attack. Bodily with Castiglione through the middle again advancing with the ball slid into Reed high on the left, cuts it back into Castiglione 25 yards out left side outside the box, lines up a shot on goal, curled wide past the far post. 

 The visitors looking to get the ball into their attackers quickly, Graham and Isla Bellamy right side pushing on with Lovelace making some surging runs through the middle, Amy Houghton captaining Royston with a vital interception at the back as her defence pushes up. Graham bringing the ball on through the middle sending it out to the right for Bellamy, does well to keep it in play before taking it down the wing  Payne getting back at her, Bellamy charging down her attempt to clear the ball and delivers a cross into the top of the D, met by Phoebe Brown leaning into her shot strikes the ball over the bar.

Watford’s Jada-Chey’ah Graham

 Swallow out again to the corner of her area, getting to the ball first before Reed can race onto it for Royston. Watford aiming to get the ball on rapidly through the middle, Royston’s defence pushed up at times a mis-up sees the ball bounce on clear for Bellamy too latch onto right of the D, blasts a powerful strike in on goal, coming at Carter quickly the goalkeeper, saves well beating the ball down to bounce away to her right post, her defence seeing the ball away to safety.

Watford’s Isla Bellamy

  GOAL! A lively opening 12 minutes with Royston keen to get the ball forwards, Swallow so far coming to the top of her area ready to get hold of the ball, is undo this time however as Mills on the shoulder of defender, Aliyah Cristal Anderson nips in to get her foot onto the ball before the advancing keeper can get hold of it to knock it on past her an chase the rolling ball on into the back of the net 1-0.

Laura Mills opens the scoring for Royston

 Watford behind in the opening quarter hour drive on with the ball left clipped inside, Payne clearing the ball for a corner before Bellamy can steal through on goal. Curled in from the left to the far post the ball cleared to the top of the area, to Brown left of the D, her shot charged down the ball looping up into the area dropping towards goal, Millie Carter bringing it down safely into her gloves for Royston.

 Reed played in on the left for Royston cutting the ball back in across the top of the area looking for Sillitoe, Swallow getting their first to snatch the ball up into her gloves. Mills picking out Reed again on the left, challenged by Watford full back, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads, manages to squeeze a cross into the six yard box, Swallow diving down to get behind the ball. Royston pressing on the right, Badal with Mills winning a throw, lifted on into the area, Elliott heading it behind for a corner kick. Swung into the crowded six yard box, headed away to the left, play stopped with a Watford player down with a head injury.

  A pause in play but all is OK. The hosts pushing on using the flanks, Reed strong forcing a throw, the ball played in across the top of the area, Anderson back to defend tackling Badal right side as she looks to drive into the box. Jessica Wright winning the ball for Watford putting it on for Graham driving forwards plays the ball out to Brown on the left side for Watford strong looking to push her way into the box, Dilly Haselhurst staying on her well to get a challenge in take the ball off her feet before she can wriggle free to shoot.

Royston’s Amy Reed with Watford’s Kayleigh Elmer-Roads

  A competitive tussle in the middle of the park, Ella Parker knocking the ball on through the middle for Watford, Lovelace making some strong runs to get up with the attackers, Donley, and then Houghton called into action to cut the ball out as the visitors press to find a way in behind. Bodily feeding the ball into the left flank for Reed, surging up the line, Kayleigh Elmer-Roads tracking her to challenge deny the cross.

Royston captain Amy Houghton clearing the ball

 Bodily closing the ball down for Royston as Graham and Bellamy combine looking to make inroads on the right. Sillitoe on the ball linking up with Mills and Badal on the right for Royston the ball turned back inside for Sillitoe inside the box, Anderson tackling her the ball going away for a corner kick. Sillitoe hurt in the attack, brought off with Royston sending on Emma Slater to join the attack. Swung in dangerously across the six yard box, Slater leaping almost gets to it but Watford can see it out far side.

  Donley stands up well to close Lovelace down as she takes control of the ball through the middle drives forwards. The ball popping about in the middle, no quarter given rarely still, Bodily dropping the ball into the right channel for Slater, Georgia Elmer-Roads closing her down to see the ball out for a throw. Slater off the throw hooking the ball back up over her shoulder into the Watford area, Elliott getting her head on it to put behind for a corner kick at the near post. 

 

 Royston looking a threat from corners the ball curled into the near post defended knocked down back to the right, Reed onto the ball snatches a shot in back on goal, on the angle, Swallow right behind down quickly to save. The hosts press well on the right Badal linking up with Slater and Mills the latter shooting from distance from the angle her effort wide across the face of goal.

Watford captain, Rebecca Lovelace

 Swallow the busier of the two goal keepers, saving with her legs and she comes out to close the angle on Reed as she is played in on the left. Moments later makes a great one arm save as Slater is played in on goal left inside the box, sending her shot in across goal, Swallow throwing out her left arm to turn the ball away to the right. Royston keeping it alive fired back in from the right, Swallow down behind it to get hold of the ball.

 Castiglione slides the ball on into the right channel, Anderson dives in to deny Slater. Moving into added time at the end of the 1st half, Royston winning a corner, from the right headed on across goal at the near post on target but straight at the keeper as Swallow claims. 

 GOAL! Watford have carried the threat all through the 1st half the ball knocked on up through the middle, Lovelace attacking it, gets the better of the Royston defence caught high too run on in behind central to bear down on the area, Carter racing out to try and close her down, Lovelace releasing her shot early sending the ball low past the keeper and on into the back of the net to equalise 1-1.

Rebecca Lovelace breaking clear to equalise for Watford

Half-time Royston Town Women 1-1 Watford Ladies Development

 Watford with an equalising goal on the stroke of half-time to change the complexion of the game. Royston with more of the ball pressing players on well opening the scoring in the 12th minute through Laura Mills. That after Watford had a couple of good opportunities themselves to take the lead. Carter called into action to deny Bellamy. Shannon Swallow has been the busier of the two keepers however patrolling the top of the box too claim the ball and make some vital stops.

 Decidedly more chilly at the start of the 2nd half as the sun drops lower still remains a problem with Watford now defending that end. Sofia Jones-Ghartouchent on for Watford replacing Brown. Royston unchanged to get the 2nd period underway, play a long hopeful ball forwards into the Watford box, Swallow can see it bounce wide of her goal. Castiglione taking the ball on for the hosts right side played into Badal squared into the top of the area, Slater fouled the free-kick given away in a dangerous position 25 yards out.

GOAL! Mills over the set-piece as Watford set up to defend, the sun low the ball placed to the right of the D. Mills runs up puts her foot through the ball striking it past over the wall, Swallow wrong footed unable to get across to the right of her goal to stop the ball sailing in right side to see the hosts restore their lead right at the start of the 2nd half 2-1.

Laura Mills scores from the early 2nd half free-kick to restore Royston’s lead

 Mills moving into double figures for the season with her 2nd of the game. Royston full of attacking intent at the start of the 2nd half pushing on with the ball, Slater lively played in on the right, knocking the ball on down the wing cuts it back inside to Badal top of the area right of the D, her touch sending it on into the area for Reed ahead of her, drills her snap shot wide of the right post.

  Slater busy, on the right and on the left, coming in from the wing left side lines up a 20 yard strike, Wright lunging in to charge the ball down for Watford. Bodily and Castiglione chasing the ball down in the middle, keeping Watford pinned back, Badal put in on the right surging on with the ball, Anderson closing her down for the visitors. Watford breaking out from the back winning a free-kick inside the Royston half. Left side a long way out, Parker over it an ambitious effort on goal, Carter coming across her goal can see it bounce wide of her left post.

  Badal taking the ball on right side for Royston turning infield pushing it into the middle for Slater, has Reed ahead of her top of the D, she in turn plays it into the box as Badal continues her run looking to steal in on goal, Georgia Elmer-Roads with a timely tackle for the visitors. Royston on top early in the 2nd half Watford unable to get the ball out of their half to get their attackers on the ball. 

Watford’s Jessica Wright

 Slater played in as she makes a run down into the right getting after the ball on the by-line cuts it back into the area into the path of the advancing Mills, leaning back to strike the ball in across goal, rising her attempt narrowly over the crossbar. A brief pause the ball striking a child behind the goal, everyone ensuring all is well, Mills herself checking on the wellbeing to the unfortunate victim.

 Haselhurst racing past Badal on the overlap on the right her cross blocked by Georgia Elmer-Roads turned behind for a corner kick. From the right the ball sung in across a packed six yard box, Swallow coming in amongst the melee to try and claim the ball taking a blow to the head. Down play stopped as she receives treatment. Up okay for now, another corner awarded out on the left. Swung into the near post, Swallow comes for it undeterred diving forwards onto the ball appearing to aggravate her injury.

 Watford’s defence on the back foot pushed back into their box, Elliott, getting her foot in to tackle Slater as she cuts inside from the left. Elliott again called into action diving in to deny Slater the cross as she is played on by Castiglione on the left. Slater turning provider for Castiglione as she plays the ball inside from the left. the midfielder striking from 20 yards out her attempt close over the bar. 

Watford defender, Amelie Elliott

 Royston on top Haselhurst breaking on with the ball right into the corner to sweep a cross into the six yard box, too close to the keeper claimed low by Swallow. A rare opportunity for Watford to break as Lovelace gets onto the ball centrally running forwards attempts to thread it through to Jones-Ghartouchent in the left channel, Donley getting back on her to block her shot, play brought back however with the flag raised for offside.

  Bodily on for Mills bringing the ball on right side on for Badal down the wing her cross turned behind for a corner kick by Anderson. Royston to make a double change before the corner with Payne and Badal coming off to be replaced by Eloise Cattini and Ailsa Heal making her debut for the 1st team.

GOAL! Royston’s corner kicks causing problems as the host push players into the six yard box as the delivery is curled in from the right, swallow going for it near side unable to get a firm touch as it drops down into ground at the far post, stabbed over the line, Royston open up a 2 goal lead, Slater credited with the goal 3-1.

Emma Slater scores Royston’s 3rd

 

 Midway through the 2nd half Royston taking charge of the contest 2nd half, keeping the ball inside the Watford half throwing players forwards. Bodily threading the ball into the box for Slater stealing in clear left of goal, Swallow out well diving in to save at her feet. Kayleigh Elmer-Roads cutting out a diagonal ball flung into the Watford area from the left by Heal. 

Kayleigh Elmer-Roads

 Elliott comes to close Heal down as Royston push on up the left. The hosts awarded a free-kick deep on the left, lifted high into the top of the area, Elliott under it to head clear for the visitors. Some good attacking moves from Royston, Mills taking the ball on down the right inside for Slater top of the area, sends it on into the area for Heal breaking into the box from the left, her snap shot beat away by Swallow as she drops to make the save.

Ailsa Heal

 A corner for Royston out on the left, defended at the near post, no break for the visitors Royston quick to win the ball back, Cattini into Reed shoots wide from range. Watford making a change, Swallow having picked up a knock early in the 2nd half coming off, Watford do have a replacement keeper on the bench as Sophie Adamou enters the action. Royston also making a change, Slater having made an impact since coming on late in the first half coming off, Stacey Roper coming on. 

Watford’s Aliyah Cristal Anderson

 Kayleigh Elmer-Roads tackling Heal as she looks to make ground on the left for the hosts. Reed nipping in to grab hold of the ball left side puts it inside for Cattini to have a wild strike on goal from range, over the bar. Adamou called into action to deny Mills her hat-trick as the attacker is played in on goal left side her shot angled into the near post Adamou down low to push the ball wide for a corner kick.

Watford goalkeeper, Sophie Adamou

  Curled on into the six yard box from the left Adamou getting a glove on the ball turning it on across the six yard box, retrieved by Heal on the right her left foot cross angled back into the far post turned behind for another corner. Adamou getting a stronger hand on this delivery to turn it wide across her goal. Watford’s attacks limited 2nd half haven’t been able to get Bellamy or Graham onto the ball, the latter picking up possession in the middle has support form Georgia Elmer-Road racing on up the left wing, picking her out, her cross into the area is collected cleanly by Carter.

  Mills into Heal on the left, Georgia Elmer-Roads lunging in to put the ball out for a throw. Reed into the box knocking it down for Mills, looks to set up Cattini top of the area, her strike charged down deflected behind for a corner kick.

GOAL! Heal on the corner from the right clipping the ball into the near post, Elliott tracking in to cut the ball out for Watford deflected back out to the right, Heal gathering up the line looking to get the ball onto her left for, lifts the ball back in over everyone to land inside the far post to score on her debut to make it 4-1.

Amelie Elliott rising initially clearing Ailsa Heal’s corner

Ailsa Heal celebrates as she sends the ball back in to score on her debut

 Royston extending their lead in the 85th minute in firm control of the game, Cattini slides in on Anderson to give the foul away. Lovelace with the ball at her feet for Watford going left has support from Parker who helps the ball on for Lovelace to take on the shot from 20 yards out, on target but straight at Carter in the Royston goal. Watford with  free-kick inside the Royston half the ball played on by Parker into the top of the area, Anderson top of the D knocking it on in towards goal, Carter untroubled though gathering the ball up into her gloves.

Cattini mistiming her tackle on Aliyah Cristal Anderson

 A counter up the other end Mills fed onto the ball left channel powering her way into the box, Anderson on her shoulder, Mills wide of goal looking to lift her shot over the keeper, Adamou getting an arm up to save tip the ball down dropping to the advancing Cattini top of the area, her strike clipped up over the crossbar. 

Royston’s Eloise Cattini

 The clock ticking down Royston dropping back a little allowing Watford some relieve, Graham on for Jones-Ghartouchent right side, Roper closing her down for the hosts. Anderson defending on Mills as she takes the ball on down the right. Haselhurst off the throw into Cattini her cross into the box cleared by Elliott. The final whistle blows up and Royston with a dominant 2nd half performance claim the 3 points lifting them up to 2nd in the Premier Division table.

Full time Royston Town Women 4-1 Watford Ladies Development

  Royston with a league double over Watford, continue their recent good form to climb above them into 2nd in the table. Remains incredibly tight with sides jockeying for position, Stevenage 3 points clear at the top Royston heading a pack behind with just 3 points separating 2nd to 8th in the table. Sure to remain competitive all season. Royston taking control of the game 2nd half after conceding a last gasp equaliser in the 1st half. Winning the ball well in midfield stifling Watford’s attempts to get forwards kept the visitors pinned back scoring early on. Adding a 2nd midway through the 2nd half created numerous chances forcing saves from both Watford keepers before adding a 4th goal late in the contest.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As often the case a few contenders but one emerging on top I think. Good performances from both sides, firstly for Watford, Shannon Swallow was proactive in goal, making numerous interceptions and saves getting hurt for her efforts eventually forced off. Aliyah Cristal Anderson with some great tackles in defence got across to win the ball. Jada-Chey’ah Graham with some powerful runs on the ball in the 1st half, Royston did well to keep her off the ball 2nd half. Rebecca Lovelace a threat attacking through the middle caused the hosts defence problems. Royston with a strong 2nd half performance, midfielders, Hannah Bodily and Sofia Castiglione winning the ball well keeping the momentum with their side. Amy Reed offering a potent outlet on the left, Ri Badal equally as effective on the right. Emma Slater had a half hour cameo and was impressive getting hold of the ball driving Royston on getting the 3nd goal. The award goes to Laura Mills broke through to open the scoring, made good runs throughout linked up play adding her 2nd early in the 2nd half from a set-piece, unlucky not to go on and claim her hat-trick.

 Another entertaining contest from the ERWFL Premier Division, the league highly competitive this season will be exciting to see how it unfolds. Good to see Watford Ladies Development at last. My thanks to Royston for their help in getting the details for both teams as always much appreciated.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Stevenage FC Women Development

Sunday 26th October

ERWFL Division One North

 Into the last weekend of October, the clocks go back and the temperature most certainly drops, however the football is hotting up nicely, leagues taking shape and the likely title contenders have emerged, the action this Sunday from ERWFL Division One North, leaders, Histon Ladies with a 100% record, hosting 2nd placed, Stevenage FC Women Development also unbeaten in the league.

  One promotion place guaranteed for clinching the title, the winning side moving up to join the ERWFL Premier Division, representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid across the East. The ERWFL reaching it’s full compliment of 36 sides across 3 Divisions in recent seasons. A 12 strong Premier Division with a Division One North and South, tier 6 in the pyramid.

  Cambridgeshire side, Histon Ladies, returning to the ERWFL a couple of seasons ago, making strides on and off the pitch to become one of the leading women’s football clubs in the county, Matt Payne bringing Kevin Jacklin to the club as manager, now stepping up to oversee the women’s development has a wealth of experience in the women’s game, Darren Marjoram joining the club this season to take on the managers role, after a spell in the FAWNL with Cambridge United WFC, Liz Pamplin joining him from Cambridge, making for a strong team to take the cub forwards.

 Histon have hit the ground running this season too, with a 100% win rate in the league so far to top the table with 8 wins from 8. Building upon a 2nd placed finished last season, have an experienced squad, with some promising young talent coming through. Evie Nicholls runaway top scorer for Histon scoring 13 from her 11 appearances so far with 10 of her teammates sharing another 11 goals between them. Winning several of their games by a single goal margin are proving hard to break down conceding the fewest goals in the league with 6 against them so far. Ella Marden the latest signing for the club, coming too Histon on a dual registration from Cambridge United WFC, adds an attacking threat on the wing.

  Stevenage FC Women Development have emerged as Histon’s main challengers making a fantastic start to the season unbeaten in their opening 8 league games dropping just the two points along the way, manager Chad Foster, like his counter part at Histon seeing their strong starts recognised in the ERWFL’s new manager of the month feature. Stevenage FC taking over from the foundation in looking after the development girls and women’s section transitioning into an Academy, the 1st team also riding high in the ERWFL Premier Division, top of the table gunning for promotion this season.

 Stevenage FC Women Development  are the top scorers in ERWFL Division One North, finding the back of the net for 27 goals so far. Unlike Histon however their goals are scattered throughout the squad with with 13 different goal scorers, Kelsey Millen now with Wormley Rovers Ladies joint top scorer on 4 goals along with Sophie Hendy. Looking to produce players for the 1st team are packed with young talent becoming firmly established within the ERWFL themselves.

 Histon FC’s Bridge Road Stadium the venue for today’s league encounter. The weather blowing in form the North earlier ibn the week has seen a marked change in the temperature with it feeling decidedly chilly, overcast too with the likelihood of rain at some point during the match. The large grass pitch looking in great shape, having already featured an U18s match earlier that day. Offering good width covered viewing all round, the main stand housing the bar at the back serving hot and cold drinks. 

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Kelley Robinson, Abi Davies, Mollie Childerley, Laura Leyland (C), Claire Kreuger, Molly Banks, Sabrina Ghosh, Ella Marden, Gabriella Giussani, Sophie Hopkin & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Tash Collins, Eloise Page, Poppy McCleod, Emily Hope & Bella Howard.

Histon Ladies

 Stevenage FC Women Development starting XI – Tegan Gibbs, Katie Boyle, Jess Preston, Chase Bembridge, Abigail Hunt, Isobel Matfield, Tegan Wilson, Chloe Gregory, Frankie Tilbury, Sophie Hendy (C) & Lilly Kelly. Subs – Charlotte English, Sophie Wade, Isla Martin, Olivia Thornton & Poppy Young. 

Stevenage FC Women Development

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Stevenage to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing an all navy kit with red and white trim. Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to the defence played up through the middle into Tegan Wilson she looks to send in on through the centre into Chloe Gregory making an attacking run at the Histon defence, the pass cut out by Histon captain and centre back, Laura Leyland.

  Stevenage making a bright start looking to shift the ball between them short passes keeping the ball moving, Isobel Matfield getting hold of the ball taking it on through the middle, clipped out to Lilly Kelly making a run on the right flank, controls the ball, checking back inside to play the ball in central, Sabrina Ghosh back to intercept it for the hosts. 

 The visitors winning the ball back inside the Histon half Gregory feeding it into the left channel for Frankie Tilbury to attack, knocks it on, full back Abi Davies thrusting a leg out to cut the ball out divert it out of play for a throw in. The hosts send the ball on up through the middle looking to break in behind the Stevenage defence, Sophie Hopkin with the run, Abigail Hunt getting to it first to put it out for a throw high on the left.

  The throw dropped into Hopkin outside the box left corner, looks to see it down into her feet and turn to release a shot, slips as she goes to pull the trigger seeing her effort screw wide of the left post for a goal kick. Histon coming back at Stevenage to press the ball inside their opponents half, Gabrielle Giussani charging the ball down on the right, can’t pick the pass through for Evie Nicholls up top, cut out by Stevenage’s Jess Preston out for a throw. Lively from both sides rushing in to close the other down. Gregory bringing the ball away to the right on for Kelly has Katie Boyle racing past her on the overlap, Mollie Childerley challenging to prevent the cross.

  Gregory linking up with Wilson through the middle for Stevenage gaining ground the pass threaded out to Kelly on the right driving up the line swings in a cross to the near post grabbed up by Histon goalkeeper, Keeley Robinson. Histon winning another throw high on the left Childerley combining well with Ella Marden to get the ball down into the corner to whip a cross into the near post, goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs down to snatch it up into her gloves not distracted by Nicholls racing in to try and get hold of the ball herself.

Stevenage’s Chloe Gregory

  The visitors working the ball up the pitch quickly Tilbury out to the left, has plenty of support the cross swung in from a deep position, Childerley to clear for Histon central, Stevenage making an appeal for handball but nothing doing. Another Stevenage foray up on the left captain Sophie Hendy on the ball ball left on for Tilbury the ball crossed in to Gregory top of the area, fouls Leyland as the defender goes in to try and clear the foul given even as Boyle right of goal snatches a shot wide of the right post.

Stevenage captain, Sophie Hendy with Histon defender, Claire Kreuger

  Giussani pressing forwards on the right for Histon winning a throw, sees Nicholls turn it into the first corner of the match. Played in long across the six yard box, Stevenage get hold of the ball break forwards Kelly taking the ball on lifting it long into Tilbury charging up the left, slowed up by the Histon defence, playing it back to Hendy her shot from outside the box, deflected through to the keeper. 

  A long ball splitting the Stevenage defence sees, attacker Nicholls racing through in on goal, central pulls the trigger, Gibbs advancing reacting well with a sharp save getting down to block with her leg, the ball looping up lose in the area, no one up with Nicholls who can’t reach it before Stevenage hook the ball clear. 

Goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs preparing to save Evie Nicholls strike

 A lively contest with both sides aiming to get the ball forwards quickly snapping into their tackles, Histon with another probing long pass through the middle from Ghosh sees Hopkin this time stealing away to the right of the D, Chase Bembridge lunging in with the tackle to take the ball away from her for the visitors. 

Chase Bembridge winning the ball back for Stevenage

 Tilbury linking up with Hendy in attack a high ball into the box cleared by Histon who counter the ball forwards into Hopkin, up with Nicholls played down the left wing for Marden to attack, Boyle getting back on her to tackle the ball off her out for a corner kick. Players up from the back for Histon, Claire Kreuger looking to pull of her marker near post make a run to the far side as the corner is swung in towards her, gets a glancing head on the ball, not enough to divert it goal wards as it runs wide past the far post. 

Claire Kreuger intercepts the ball for Histon

  Players from both sides lunging in to try and win the ball some hotly contested 50/50’s, Molly Banks getting stuck in for Histon well backed up by Ghosh as they look to break play up in the middle keep Histon on the front foot. Kelly with some smart footwork to come away with the ball on the right for Stevenage powering forwards has Gregory ahead of her up the line her ball into the box too close to the keeper, Robinson launching it clear.

  Leyland intercepting an attempted through ball from Wilson as Hendy looks to pull in behind. Histon pressuring the ball, closing it down well to get it forward into their attacking players, Hopkin up with Nicholls getting a throw on the left down the line for Marden to wrap her foot around the ball in the corner send a cross into the near post top of the six yard box, Hopkin momentarily free, knocking it down in front of her, Hunt recovering superbly to get back at her deny the shot.

Histon’s Sophie Hopkin

  Kelly picking up a yellow card as she brings Childerley down on the right as she looks to get inside to delivery a cross into the box. Marden coming into the middle sending the cross-field pass into Giussani on the right attempts to play it over the top into the box for Nicholls, too much on it however allowing Gibbs to claim. Midway through the 1st half, a lively contest all action the ball rarely still, Histon beginning to see more of the ball winning it in the middle pushing players on. 

 Banks bringing the ball on well for the hosts playing it on for Marden pushing on down the left the angle against her as she attempts to cross the ball back into the Stevenage area, hits the side netting. Marden played in again on the left to the by-line squares the ball back into the six yard box, missed by Hunt as she goes to clear, however runs on safely for Gibbs to pounce upon it before Histon can capitalise. 

 Hendy fouled as she takes the ball on from Matfield through the middle for Stevenage. Histon strong in defence leaving no room to run in behind cut out by Kreuger, the ball played forwards quickly into Marden breaking on down the left, cuts inside 30 yards out, a miscued attempt to drop the ball into Nicholls path inside the box instead goes out for a goal-kick.

Stevenage’s Isobel Matfield

 A few niggly free-kicks given away but such is the nature of the game the ball being moved so rapidly tackles are bound to be mis-timed, no malice though. Hendy carrying the ball on for Stevenage sends it on for Kelly right side, wide on the angle takes the shot on her effort over the crossbar. 

  Kelly with a late challenge on Childerley, the referee telling her to calm things down, Childerley picking herself up ready to get on with things, the free-kick into the top of the area half cleared, Ghosh onto it firing it on, Nicholls in behind turning to shoot wide of the left post however the flag is up against her. Hunt with  good piece of defending at the back for Stevenage dropping off well on Nicholls to give herself room to tackle as Hopkin attempts to feed the ball into her feet top of the D.

Stevenage defender, Abigail Hunt

  Tilbury lining up as strike from all of 30 yards out for Stevenage central, charged down by Kreuger. 

 GOAL! The clock ticking down in the first half, Nicholls closely marked by the Stevenage defence determined to find a way through, pulls away to the right as Ghosh plays her in from the middle takes the ball into her stride holding off players as she bursts into the box, striking the ball on the angle to blast a vicious strike low past the keeper before she can get down to block 1-0.

Evie Nicholls opening the scoring for Histon

  Stevenage falling behind late in the 1st half, Histon with a long range effort fired into the box, catching Gibbs unawares she lurches forwards palming the ball away, goes down in agony immediately after appearing to get her feet caught in the turf jarring both her ankle and knee, only recently recovered from an ankle injury play is stopped some concern amongst the Stevenage players, needs treatment play paused. The visitors with no recognised goalkeeper on their bench discussing their options, Bembridge putting herself forwards for the role the change delayed however as Gibbs slowly rises to her feet prepared to go on see how she feels for now.

 Not risking kicking the ball, play resumes with Histon quickly in to win the ball back in the middle, Hopkin with a long range tester for the injured keeper, Gibbs back in her six yard box untroubled the ball straight at her gathered. Hendy onto the ball left side in the box shoots low, Robinson down to save it covering the near post.

Histon goalkeeper, Keeley Robinson

 Histon attack down their right, Davies on for Giussani, her cross into the top of the area brought under control by Marden left of goal her initial shot blocked by Hunt, gets another bite at it hooking the loose ball up in towards goal, Gibbs back on her line getting her gloves up above her head to grab hold of the ball. 

Stevenage goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs

 Into stoppage time in the 1st half, Stevenage dropping deep looking to protect their injured keeper, Nicholls full of attacking intent looking to chase Gibbs down winning her side a late corner. Swung into the box cleared by Boyle. Childerley with another throw on the left high inside the Stevenage half sends Marden in down the line, Boyle back on her to defend the ball out for a corner. Defended successfully out for a 2nd corner no time to take it as the referee blows up for half-time. 

Half-time Histon Ladies 1-0 Stevenage FC Women Development

  A lively 1st half drawing to a close Histon heading into the changing rooms with a narrow one goal lead. Made to work hard for it the ball closed down throughout by both sides, Stevenage with a bright start looking to get the ball forwards, Kelly a threat out to the right keeping the defence busy, the midfield hotly contested, Histon getting on top to press the ball create chances, Nicholls closely marked working hard to find an opening put trough to score late in the half. Goalkeeper Gibbs picking up a nasty looking injury a blow to the visitors.

  As suspected Stevenage are not risking Gibbs in the 2nd half making a change, Bembridge donning the spare goalkeepers kit coming out early to get warmed up for her new role. The visitors making double change, Wilson also off with Charlotte English and Isla Martin coming on.

Chase Bembridge warming up going into goal in the 2nd half for Stevenage

  Histon unchanged as they get the 2nd half underway the rain arriving now retreated into the stand to watch the game. The ball from the middle clipped out to Marden on the left knocked forwards, Boyle out to close her down sending the ball out for a corner kick.

 Taken short played up the line, the cross coming in from deep falling to Leyland unmarked top of the area tries to guide her header into the left of the Stevenage goal, Bembridge across her goal face to grab hold of the ball. Histon making a positive start to the 2nd half pressing on with the ball, Banks finding Nicholls breaking into the left channel  wins a corner off a defensive challenge.

Histon midfielder, Molly Banks

  From the left swung in central knocked down central to the left of goal, Bembridge alert down quickly to scoop the ball up into her gloves. Histon’s defence pushed up as Stevenage look to counter, Matfield playing the ball on through the middle, Leyland with a vital interception at the ball or Gregory would have been free with the ball to make a run on goal. 

Histon captain, Laura Leyland

 Davies combining with Giussani on Histon’s right, the latter sending a cross deep into the far post Marden arriving to get her head on the ball drives it wide back across the face of goal. Stevenage frustrated as Kelly is flagged offside attempting to get after a diagonal pass into her on the left. Stevenage defending deeper 2nd half, inviting pressure from Histon, Davies and Childerley able to get forwards to help support the attack. Gregory picking up a knock for Stevenage back helping out in defence but back up on her feet able to play on.

  Childerley with a strong challenge on Martin as the wing cuts inside from the right, play brought back for the free-kick with no advantage. Right of the D 25 yards out, Tilbury over it strikes the ball well past the wall but not troubling Robinson has she holds up her gloves seeing it race wide of her left post. 

 Banks continues to get stuck into the action for Histon making some strong challenges to win the ball back keep her side on the front foot. A free kick won inside the visitors half played out to the left the cross turned behind by English for a corner kick. Curled into the top of the six yard box attacked by Kreuger central her header seeing the ball turned out wide past the far post.

  The rain falling steadily Histon attack on the right Davies going past Giussani to take the ball on slipping as she goes to play the cross. Is still high up the pitch as Giussani lunges in to regain possession put it back on for her wide, this time sends her cross into the box, snatched up by Bembridge at the near post. Giussani given the ball by Ghosh angling a cross into the area from the right, headed clear by Hunt for Stevenage. Marden taking the ball on from Childerley on the left feeding in on into the box for Hopkin sends the ball from the angle up over the bar.

Histon winger, Ella Marden

  Histon making a double switch past the hour mark, Tash Collins and Belle Howard coming on, Giussani and Hopkin coming off. Nicholls seeing the ball into her feet central top of the D, moves right, getting a shot away under challenge, angled back in across goal, Bembridge getting down behind it to make the save. The Stevenage defence riding out a spell of pressure, Preston breaking away with the ball on the left angling a cross into the area, cleared by Childerley far side as Martin looks to run in on the ball.

  Histon’s defence looking solid not leaving many gaps pushed up at time Banks and Ghosh supporting the ball won back Davies and Childerley getting on to support on the flanks. Howard busy after the ball providing good link up play with Nicholls in attack. English cutting a pass out inside the D as the pair combine. Marden flashing a cross into the near post coming at Bembridge quickly makes a grab for it pops up out of her gloves for a split second but recovers quickly to get hold of it before it can evade her trickle over the line.

Histon full back Abi Davies

 Howard hooking the ball forwards on for Nicholls pulling into the right channel bringing the ball down, comes back inside shaping to shoot, Boyle in to close her down the ball off the defender behind for a corner kick. 

 GOAL! Players up from the back for the corner initially defended by Stevenage cleared to the left outside the area Histon closing the ball down en masse the shot struck on with plenty of pace from the angle, head height, on Bembridge quickly makes a grab for it but doesn’t stick in her gloves popping out and agonisingly beyond her over the line to see Histon double their lead with a little over 15 minutes left on the clock 2-0. Leyland the player with the strike congratulated by her teammates scoring her 2nd goal of the season.

Captain Laura Leyland firing Histon into a 2 goal lead

  Niggle as Stevenage want to make a change before the restart, retaken so it can be made Olivia Thornton coming on replacing Kelly. Stevenage picking out Martin wide on the right she wins her side a throw, the ball level with the top of the area helped on into the box headed away by Leyland. Preston pushing on up the left looking to link up with Thornton, Collins getting back to help in defence winning the ball back.

Jess Preston winning the ball back for Stevenage

  Gregory picking the ball up in the middle for the visitors pushing on towards the box, right of the D, is no way through forced out of the area by Kreuger the centre back lunges in to give away the free-kick and earn herself a yellow card. Similar to her earlier attempt, Tilbury over the ball again gets it on target this time but straight forward for Robinson right behind it in goal.

Stevenage’s Frankie Tilbury

  Histon look to launch a rapid counter attack the ball on for Ghosh through the middle lifts it on into the area for Nicholls but too strong out for a goal kick. Thornton taking the ball on to the by-line for Stevenage left flank, Davies back with her challenging to see the ball off the attacker for a goal kick. Into the final 10 minutes Stevenage with a double change, Gregory and Preston coming off, Sophie Wade and Poppy Young sent on. Histon also making a change, Marden coming off to be replaced by Emily Howe.

  Martin getting the better of Childerley attacking on the right inside to delivery a cross into the area, Kreuger though under it to clear for Histon. Leyland on hand at the back for Histon to clear the ball as Thornton stands a ball up into the box from the left. Ghosh firing the ball into Howard she knocks it into Nicholls central, Hunt snaps in to take the ball off her for Stevenage. Collins attacking with the ball out on the right for Histon sees her cross deflected behind off a defender for a corner kick.

Histon’s Sabrina Ghosh

 The light beginning to fade rapidly as we move into the final 5 minutes of the game, Collins pushing on into the box from the right flashing a cross into the six yard box, Nicholls central looking to get it under control release a shot, Boyle in to close her down the ball away for a corner kick. Histon on top in the closing stages of the game winning a free-kick as they look to hold the ball up in the corner, played into the area cleared to the top of the area Ghosh latching onto it strikes the ball in on goal from 20 yards out swerving to the left, Bembridge gets down well to save. 

 Eloise Page coming on in the closing moments for Histon replacing Ghosh. Collins using her experience to keep the ball in the corner on the right for Histon run down the clock, the final whistle blowing up to see the hosts collect the 3 points extending their 100% record to 9 straight wins to extend their lead at the top of the table. 

Full time Histon Ladies 2-0 Stevenage FC Women Development

  Histon with a goal in both halves ensuring victory, on top overall with a strong 2nd half performance to dominate the ball wining their challenges, getting players up the pitch to keep the pressure on while staying solid at the back giving very little away in the 2nd period. An entertaining contest between the two sides at the top of the table, easy to see why both are where they are, Stevenage losing their unbeaten record, will have a chance to get back at Histon straight away as the two sides meet again next weekend in the reverse fixture, sure to be as hotly contested as the first.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual another tough on, although I was fairly certain before the final whistle. Small margins however and both sides with a strong all round team performance. Several to mention, firstly doe Stevenage, Abigail Hunt with some vital interceptions and tackles in defence. Chase Bembridge too stepping up to replace the injured keeper 2nd half. Chloe Gregory with some strong midfield runs. Lilly Kelly a threat on the ball on the flanks looked dangerous throughout. For Histon, Laura Leyland and Claire Kreuger were strong in the centre of defence limited opportunities keeping it tight won the ball well both offering a threat from set-pieces up the other end, backed up well by full backs, Mollie Childerley and Abi Davies. Sabrina Ghosh with some useful tackling played the ball forwards well. Evie Nicholls lively in attack, closely marked but worked hard to find an opening opening the scoring. The award goes to midfielder Molly Banks got stuck in from the start closing the ball down, wining her fair share of tackles and kept her side on the front foot throughout.

 October’s been a lean month for myself football wise, other priorities taking hold but good to be back at it today with an entertaining contest from the top of ERWFL Division One North, thanks to both sides for their help this afternoon always appreciated. Best wishes too to Stevenage goalkeeper, Tegan Gibbs hoping the injury isn’t too serious and she can make a swift recovery. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Hashtag United Women Reserves

Sunday 12th October

ERWFL League Cup

Back at it this Sunday with a game from the ERWFL League Cup, the competition into the 2nd Round, Hashtag United Women Reserves, newly promoted to the ERWFL, 2nd in Division One South travelling to Norfolk to face Premier Division side, Wroxham Women.

The clubs knocked out in the opening 2 rounds of the ERWFL League Cup going on to contest the League Plate.

Wroxham Women, seeing Joe Simpson return to take on the managers role this season following the departure of Adam Race, the Norfolk club doing well in the League Cup in recent season’s since making the switch from Acle to join Wroxham, finalists in 2022 & 2024. Simpson very busy on the coaching front at the moment also interim manager at King’s Lynn Town FC. The club having something of a rebuild with a few senior players moving on, such as former captain Becky Russell. Tigi Robson formerly vice captain stepping up to the role. Currently 9th in the Premier Division table will be looking to push on into the top half challenge the leading pack.

A host of new faces joining the side this season, a younger squad full of players with great potential to go on grow in the game. Some experience added too, Kathryn Stanley formerly playing for FAWNL side, Norwich City Women joining this season. Alice Collins another with a wealth of experience playing for Wymondham, King’s Lynn and most recently Thetford in the ERWFL. Sister’s Katie and Maddie Green made a name for themselves in Norfolk starring for Fakenham Town Ladies last season. Lucy Bradford re-joining the squad this season. Holly Farrow comes to Wroxham having been at Mulbarton last season with Milly Weddle joining having played for Ipswich Academy. Rachel Skinner the most recent recruit previously with King’s Lynn Town. Hannah Fuller always amongst the goals for Wroxham still leading the line has 3 to her name so far this season, Hayley Kindred one ahead netting 4.

  Hashtag United football club bursting onto the football scene in Essex, a new concept showing lots of ambition, on the women’s side taking over the C&K Basildon Women’s side that had reached the 3rd tier of the women’s football pyramid, pushing hard for promotion too from the FAWNL Southern Premier Division, becoming the leading force for women’s football in the county. First saw their Reserves side in the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup back in 2023, played well suffering a narrow 1-0 loss to Billericay Town Women. Reserves sides within the FAWNL struggling to find a settled path in recent season’s.

 Led by Declan Murphy, Hashtag United Women Reserves joined the Essex Women’s Premier Division last season, were a strong outfit emerging out on top to clinch both the league title and lift the league cup making the progression up into the ERWFL and regional football, joining Division One South, with a already strong Essex presence. Performing best amongst the newly promoted sides. winning 4 of their opening 6 league matches with just the one loss to sit 2nd in the table amongst the sides looking to chase down leaders Chelmsford City Women. The highest scorers in the league too finding the back of the net for 29 goals in those 6 matches including 15 in their last 2 matches. Chelise Fleming top scorer so far with 13 goals from 6 matches. Sophia Mylona with 7 from the 2 games she has featured in.

  The Ginger Pickle Arena at Trafford Park the venue for today’s league cup encounter, home to Yachtsmen and Yachtswomen, Wroxham one of a number of clubs that gives great promotion and support to their women’s side. The large grass pitch sloping from one goal to the other, a small covered stand with seating on one side with standing viewing all-round the clubhouse and bar open serving both hot and cold drinks and food. The weather somewhat overcast today but settled and still mild for the time of year.

Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Katie Green, Tigi Robson (C), Poppy Loveland, Jordan Arnoup, Lily Alexander, Katie Knights, Jorja Palmer, Lauren Bullard, Maddie Green & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Milly Weddle, Hayley Kindred, Holly Farrow & Rachel Skinner.

Wroxham Women

Hashtag United Women Reserves starting XI – Aulona Xhema, Macey Rothon (C), Emma Clark, Emily Galea, Sarah Finch, Raissa Taborda, Charis Howell, Leonnie Telford, Motunrayo Ojobaro, Chelise Fleming & Sophia Mylona. Subs – Emily Hamlin, Leyla Priest, Erin Radburn, Mimi Ouacel & Gracie Oxby.

Hashtag United Women Reserves

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Wroxham having played 4 successive away fixtures, glad to be back on home turf, giving a few players a rest have a few missing through injury, new signing Collins and defender Ella Gambell who recently suffered a broken collar bone amongst them. Defender Albany Hodgson, recently announcing her pregnancy, sending her my congratulations. Hashtag themselves a young side, just captain, Macey Rothon and defender Chloe Galea remain from the squad that played in the County Cup final. 

   Wroxham to kick-off the first half attacking down the slope, wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks, Hashtag lined up opposite in their away colours, red and blue patterned halved shirts, red shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into Katie Knights in midfield lifts it forwards into the right channel for Lauren Bullard rushing forwards the ball cleared by captain, Macey Rothon for Hashtag, the hosts looking to press forwards early on get after the ball inside the Hashtag half, Wroxham forcing it on into the left channel, Hannah Fuller, bursting through into the box looking to get onto the ball, goalkeeper, Aulona Xhema rushing forwards to put her foot through the ball to launch clear.

 

  Looking highly competitive in the middle, Charis Howell getting hold of the ball for Hashtag lifting in on into the right wing for Motunrayo Ojobaro to attack breaking forwards with pace, Poppy Loveland moving across to defend for Wroxham sliding in to tackle the ball out for a throw. Lily Alexander battling for the ball in the middle for Wroxham pushed up along side Katie Knights the latter clipping the diagonal pass on for Bullard attacking down the right flank, stands a cross up to the near post, taken cleanly above her head by Xhema. 

  Physical too both sides getting stuck in Alexander and Chelise Fleming tussling for the ball. Wroxham winning throws on either flank inside their opponents half. Jorja Palmer on the left for Wroxham getting help from her captain Tigi Robson the ball squared into the middle for Alexander, send on to the right Katie Green latching onto it sending a high ball into the area claimed by Xhema.

Wroxham’s Jorja Palmer

  Hashtag under pressure, break away with pace the ball from Raissa Taborda in the centre forced on into the path of Leonie Telford charging forwards on the left, takes on the strike early her angled shot from all of 25 yards out racing wide past the far post. 

  Ojobaro back to help in defence as Wroxham build on the left Knights linking up with Palmer and Fuller, Ojobaro snapping in to regain possession for the visitors. 

 GOAL! Hashtag look dangerous on the counter and so proves the case as the ball is cleared out of defence, up to halfway the bounce misread by the defence, sees Fleming break clear with the ball at her feet storming on through the middle pulls the trigger from 20 yards out fiercely struck the ball flies past goalkeeper, Bryony Williams into the back of the net to open the scoring 0-1.

Chelise Fleming breaking away to open the scoring for Hashtag.

  Hashtag into the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, Wroxham look to regroup the ball into Maddie Green played on for Fuller in attack, working hard to close the ball down in the final 3rd comes left, her cross cut back to the top of the area, cleared by Hashtag’s Chloe Galea. The hosts pressing the ball in the final 3rd Palmer squared to Knights left corner turns, looks to play the ball on for Fuller attacking through the middle, cut out by Galea who sets her side away on the counter the ball launched forwards through the middle for Fleming to try and chase down, Williams starts to come, but stays inside her box as she realises the ball has just about enough on it for her to gather safely. 

  Wroxham winning a throw on the right Katie Green putting the pass into Knights inside right 25 yards out looks to line up a strike, Fleming back in the way to charge the ball down for Hashtag. The visitors come away with the ball on the right, Emma Clark taking the ball on from the back launching a diagonal ball into the box, Sophia Mylona the target racing in on goal, Loveland with her even as Williams comes to get hold of the high ball, does well, her momentum however seeing her collide with her own defender, Loveland floored and in need of treatment. A pause in play but she is okay to play on.

 Wroxham come down the left Palmer sending the deep cross into the middle, taken down by Alexander she looks to push on towards the area appears to have her shirt pulled, play goes one however, Sarah Finch in to make the challenge the ball deflected away to the left Palmer latching onto it shooting on the angle low into the near post. Xhema across to cover the angle scooping up the ball. 

Hashtag defender, Sarah Finch

 GOAL! Pushing for a reply get the ball forwards into Palmer out on the left she cuts it back into Maddie Green who plays it in central for Alexander, Hashtag quick to move in close her down, she still gets the ball back out to Palmer left outside the box her cross back in central latched onto by Knights inside the D who makes good contact with the ball smashing her shot past the keeper before she can react to level the scores. 1-1.

Katie Knights fires in the equaliser for Wroxham

  Wroxham back on level terms with 20 minutes on the clock. Shaping up to be a lively cup contest. Loveland with a crucial interception stretching a leg out to cut the ball from Fleming out as she looks to send it on for Mylona through the middle. Rothon sliding in to challenge, Bullard and Katie Green sends the ball on for her down Wroxham’s right wing. 

 Fleming with an over zealous challenge on Loveland getting a stern talking too from the referee, Wroxham awarded the free-kick. A loose goal-kick form Hashtag presenting the ball straight to Maddie Green 25 yards out sweeps the ball out to the left for Palmer, looks to take the ball inside, Clark closing her down well tackling to see the ball out for another Wroxham throw.

Jorja Palmer with Hashtag’s Emma Clark

 Katie and Maddie Green combine on the right as Wroxham attack the deep cross into the near post dealt with well by Hashtag’s Finch. Wroxham sending a shot over from range as they move in rapidly to regain possession. Hashtag with pace to burn in attack, Ojobaro getting hold of the ball on the right surging forwards driving into the box right of goal close to the by-line cuts it back into the middle, just behind the on rushing Mylona. Multiple shots from the top of the area blocked by the Wroxham defence one taking a wicked deflection wide of the right post for a corner kick. 

Hashtag’s Motunrayo Ojobaro

 The corner played into the near post from the right, good pace on the ball, Fleming stretching out a leg looking to strike it on the volley. Alexander close in on her in the way to block the ball. Fleming a real handful to deal with when she gets hold of the ball looking to push on through the middle, strong, Robson does well to stay on her getting a block in as she pulls the trigger top of the area the sting taken off the ball runs on for her keeper to snatch up.

  Arnoup in defence for Wroxham cutting the ball out as Taborda and Fleming combine through the middle the latter’s pass forwards not reaching Mylona bursting in behind. Loveland sends the ball long for Wroxham into the left channel, Fuller moving across to link up with Palmer in attack. Clark snapping on to win the ball back for Hashtag launching a rapid counter…

Emma Clark

 GOAL! … Clark’s ball rolled forwards into Ojobaro with the ball at her feet drives on up the wing before squaring a dangerous ball into the six yard box, Mylona the first to arrive getting onto the end of it to coolly turn the ball past the keeper from close range to put Hashtag back into the lead 1-2. 

Sophia Mylona scoring to put Hashtag back into the lead

  The visitors back into the lead as the first half closes in on the half hour mark. Wroxham frustrated several free-kicks being given away, Fleming with another robust challenge gets another warning from the referee. Fuller taking the ball on from Maddie Green in the right channel looks for force her way through into the Hashtag box, 4 players closing her down, there’s no way through. 

Wroxham’s Hannah Fuller

  Finch getting her head on the ball to defend a Bullard cross from the right gives away the corner kick. Wroxham look to mix things up with a short corner but mess it up losing possession on the left Taborda coming away with the ball for Hashtag pressing forwards, Katie Green across to get back at her defend for Wroxham. Some bruising battles out there, the ball contested strongly through the middle, Arnoup getting there first as Fleming looks to knock the ball on for Ojobaro on the right. 

Jordan Arnoup

  Bullard receiving the ball into her feet on the left plays it on for Palmer, gets inside Clark, but not Finch as the centre back comes round on the cover. Loveland doing the defending for Wroxham at the back as Taborda looks to send Ojobaro clear on the right. Rothon intercepting the ball on the left for Hashtag looks to send Telford away on the wing, Katie Green closing her down to put the ball out for a throw. 

  All action a lively cup contest, Loveland with another good tackle to deny Fleming this time as the attacker looks to plough her way into the left channel. Wroxham with the ball on the right Maddie Green playing it on for Fuller to race onto inside the box right of goal, Finch going with her even as Xhema comes rushing out to slide in try and claim the ball, instead collides with her own defender the ball loose beyond them both Fuller trying to get to it, Rothon back on the cover winning the race instead to clear the ball across the face of goal out to the left. 

  Xhema stays down after the collision in need of treatment, have a replacement keeper in Emily Hamlin on the bench, time taken however and is up and ready to continue. Moving into the final 5 minutes of the first half. Hashtag breaking clear to attack on the right Fleming storming on with the ball her cross into the area deflected by Knights, allowing Robson to clear, only as far as Ojobaro on the right, shifts the ball inside getting into the box to shoot on the angle her low strike saved by Williams as she drops getting her body behind the ball. 

Lily Alexander with Raissa Taborda

 Fleming making a nuisance of herself, a coming together with Arnoup on the left, sees the Wroxham defender penalised shown a yellow card, the visitors presented with the free-kick. Telford over the ball, goes for goal getting her shot on target at the near post, lacks the height though to trouble Williams who has the angle covered.

 Mylona seeing the ball from Howell into her feet turns to play the ball on for Telford on the left, Katie Green lunging in for Wroxham to see the ball out for a throw. The throw finding its way on through to Taborda central 25 yards out has a swing at the ball her shot over the bar. Taborda getting stuck in to her tackles in the middle for Hashtag breaking play up getting her side back on the front foot.

  Wroxham continue to win throws high on both flanks, Finch making a couple of interceptions inside the box as Wroxham press players on around the box. Fleming passing the ball out to Telford left side squares it back into Taborda in the middle 30 yard out goes for another strike on goal, Robson charging it down for Wroxham. 

  Fleming strong holding the ball up well on the right for Hashtag turns to cross into the box, Robson sticking a leg out to cut it out turn the ball behind for a corner kick. Once again flashed into the near post, Fleming the target trying on connect on the volley, evades Knights close on her this time, but not Arnoup covering the post sees the ball wide for another corner kick. 

 Telford to clip another corner into the box from the right, defended by Wroxham’s Bullard, cleared back out to Telford on the right, strikes the ball back into the area on the angle her effort dropping wide past the far post. Loveland sends the ball on from the back for Wroxham into Fuller in the left channel plays it central for Knights is chopped down the free-kick awarded the hosts furious a card hasn’t been shown. Alexander over the set-piece 25 yards out her strike hitting the wall away for a corner on the right. Flung into the near post Hashtag successfully defend as the whistle blows up for half-time.

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-2 Hashtag United Women Reserves

 A hard fought cup tie sees the visitors from Essex leading 2-1 at the break. Wroxham making a strong stat looking to get after the ball inside their opponents half, fiercely contested in the middle Hashtag looked dangerous on the counter attack with plenty of pace in the final 3rd, took advantage to open the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, Wroxham coming back to level the scores midway through the half, another counter saw Hashtag retake the lead. Created further chances, both sides look a threat going forwards, just a single goal in it still all to play for in the 2nd half.

  Hashtag making a change at the break, captain, Macey Rothon picking up a knock in the first half replaced at left back by Mimi Ouacel. Wroxham unchanged the visitors out early wanting to get back underway. The ball played on into the left channel, Katie Green getting hold of it for Wroxham coming forwards played into Knights right of the D to cross in central looking to pick out Fuller, Finch intercepts well for Hashtag.

  The hosts looking to get on with the ball at the start of the 2nd half Maddie Green into Fuller ahead of her on the right, Galea lunging in to defend win the ball back for Hashtag. Galea winning the ball at the back soon after for Hashtag looking to get Ouacel away on the left, Katie Green closing her down well for Wroxham. 

Hashtag’s Chloe Galea

 Maddie Green taking the ball on up the right for Wroxham squaring a cross into the top of the area for Bullard looks to play it into Fuller ahead of her closely marked by Galea the ball stabbed clear out to the left, Robson getting hold of it striking in a shot on the angle from outside the box her effort over the bar. 

 Fleming making a run into the right wing sees the ball into her feet drives down the line before flashing a shot in at the near post, Williams with a sharp save getting a glove on the ball to turn it into the side netting for a corner kick. The corner defended by Wroxham the hosts break quickly the ball with Maddie Green on the right sends it on for Fuller pressing on into the box his held up by Clark, lays it back for Green to clip in towards goal on the angle, not enough on it as Xhema can see it down into her gloves. 

Maddie Green

 Williams comes racing out of her area to slide in and clear the ball away for a throw as Ojobaro threatens to burst clear attacking on the right for Hashtag. Wroxham quick to advance as they play the ball long into Maddie Green right wing pushing on her cross low into the box taking a deflection coming into Bullard top of the area, leaning back as she shoots her effort over the crossbar.

Lauren Bullard

  Hashtag working hard in defence to keep Wroxham out as the hosts look to push up the flanks, Ojobaro back to defend on Palmer as she takes the ball on from Alexander up the left. Hashtag remain a constant threat on the counter attack, Howell getting the ball on for Mylona lifts it into Fleming drifting right her cross into the opposition area, too strong for Telford charging on from the left. 

Charis Howell after the ball for Hashtag

 Knights threading the ball on for Fuller positioned top of the area, Finch stabbing a foot out to take it away from her for Hashtag. Katie Green up with sister, Maddie on the right the cross into the box too close to the keeper, Xhema taking the catch. Wroxham ringing the changes 15 minutes into the 2nd half making a quadruple switch, Robson, Palmer, Arnoup and Bullard coming off, on come Kathryn Stanley, Holly Farrow, Milly Weddle and Rachel Skinner. Fuller now wearing the armband. 

 Knights doesn’t get the connection she wants on her strike from 20 yards out left of the D as the ball bounces up off the turf into the keepers gloves. Taborda fouls Skinner on half way the set-piece leading to a corner being conceded. Played in goes through everyone inside the six yard box. Cleared the ball forwards won by Katie Green into the right flank, Fuller after it as Ouacel turns to defend, looking to get around the defender onto the ball Fuller, accidentally clips her heels bringing her down for the free-kick. 

Katie Green

  Ojobaro with the ball at her feet on the right attacking for Hashtag squares it in central for Taborda, Weddle quickly across her path the deny her the strike from 25 yards out. Wroxham with fresh legs on the pitch looking to press the advantage good link up play between Katie Green, Maddie Green and Skinner on the right the ball crossed into the box for Knights she rolls it outside back to Maddie Green who strikes over from 20 yards out.

  Taborda picking up a blow for Hashtag comes off to be replaced by Leyla Priest. Fuller fouled in the left corner as she is played onto the ball by Knights. Alexander over the free-kick, curls the ball in on the keeper, Xhema throwing an arm up to turn the ball over for a corner kick. Delivered into the area from the right is cut out for a 2nd corner. Taken short to Katie Green looks to exchange passes with Alexander, Hashtag’s Ouacel moving in to close them down the cross angled high into the box taken cleanly by Xhema.

Mimi Ouacel

  Williams rushing out of her box to slide in try and win the ball before Mylona can reach it as Hashtag counter through the middle, the pair coming together the goalkeeper coming off worse. Hashtag’s turn to complain to the referee. A long pause in play so the keeper can receive treatment but is up and okay to continue. Into the final 20 minutes, the clock ticking down as Wroxham look to level the game. 

 

  Howell giving away a free-kick inside her half, Wroxham play it back for Knights to clip a long ball into the right channel for Skinner bursting forwards just a little too much on it Skinner can’t keep it in play. Wroxham winning a throw high on the right, Maddie Green linking up with Skinner a teasing cross flung into the six yard box, Knights jumping for it central can only get a glancing touch with her header not enough to turn it past the keeper travels on out to the left cleared by Clark.

Rachel Skinner up to head the ball for Wroxham

Wroxham making another switch, Fuller the player coming off, Hayley Kindred coming on. Finch defends for Hashtag as Skinner tries to pick out Stanley drifting into the box from the left. Ojobaro coming off for Hashtag, Erin Radburn sent into the action. 

Poppy Loveland

 GOAL! Wroxham have been pressing all 2nd half looking for a 2nd goal, find it as they build on the right, Katie Green on for Maddie Green her lay off seeing Kindred race on up the flank with the ball at her feet digging a cross out dropping into the six yard box for Stanley at the far post to nod down past the keeper and into the goal beyond 2-2.

Kathryn Stanley makes it 2-2 for Wroxham

  Wroxham equalising with a little over 5 minutes of regular play left. Hashtag get straight on the attack from the restart the pass finding Fleming pulling away on the right to strike the ball in on the angle, Williams down sharply at her near post to make the save. Fleming out on the right again, evading a challenge from Loveland to shoot her effort wide across goal past the far post.

  Fleming down with a knock after the attack but back on her feet seeing more stoppage time added. A tense finish to the game. Skinner charging on with the ball right side for Wroxham taking on the early cross into the top of the area cut out by the Hashtag defence, comes back to Alexander, striking it on the volley, over the bar.

Lily Alexander

 Loveland defending well at the back for Wroxham, with the challenge on Fleming as the attacker looks to see the ball into her feet spin away to the right. Skinner carries the ball on up the right for Wroxham playing it on for Kindred, she turns it back into Skinners feet as she checks inside to shoot from the top of the area her looping shot dipping onto the roof of the net.

  GOAL! The 90 minutes almost up Wroxham having fought their way back into the game are undone chasing a winning goal the ball cleared by Xhema at the back finding its way through to Mylona stealing into space in the left channel, getting hold of the ball drives on into the box before striking a rising shot on past the keeper to strike the back of the net and fire the Essex side back into the lead 2-3!

Sophia Mylona fires Hashtag back into the lead late in the game

A hammer blow for Wroxham late in the contest get back on the attack the ball from Alexander into Stanley out side the area top of the D, puts her foot through it the ball taking a couple of deflections off the Hashtag defence on its way through out wide for a corner kick. Fuller sent back into the action for Wroxham. Maddie Green right has Skinner ahead of her, plays her in, Ouacel dives in to see the ball out for a throw in. 

Into stoppage time, plenty to be added, Fuller strong in possession wide left her shot into the near post held by the keeper. Katie Green with the block on Mylona as the visitors threaten another dangerous counter. Kindred on the left now for Wroxham driving up the wing her cut back cut out by Telford back in defence for the visitors. Wroxham throwing players on looking for a 3rd reply with time running out, Kindred on for Fuller left her cross intercepted by Finch.

  Knights with a strike from distance straight at the keeper as Fuller’s cross from the left in cleared straight into her feet. The hosts winning a late corner on the right flung into the box near side, Howell clearing for Hashtag. Howell slides in soon after on Kindred as she attacks on the right the ball away for a throw. Fleming always ready to receive the ball off the counter as Hashtag break, Mylona looking to play her on right side, Loveland on her to tackle see the ball out for a throw. 

 Fuller attacking left flank sees her cross turned behind off a defender for a corner kick. Plenty up in the six yard box, players coming together, the referee needing to have words to calm things down the cross not finding its mark. Deep into injury time Hashtag working hard determined to keep Wroxham out get the ball forwards a run into the corner not a option for Fleming as she blasts a shot in on the angle from the right wide across goal. Hashtag with the ball up the right end with a corner turned behind at the near post from the left, no time for the 2nd corner as the final whistle blows and Hashtag beat higher league opposition to advance in this season’s League Cup.

Full time Wroxham Women 2-3 Hashtag United Women Reserves

  A combative game, Wroxham working hard to find a reply in the 2nd half coming back to level the game as Hashtag worked just as hard to try and keep them out, counter attacks limited in the 2nd half but just as dangerous, Mylona breaking clear into the left channel to fire the visitors into the lead for the 3rd time in the match. Wroxham having fought so hard to get back on level terms suffering a hammer blow tried to level the match up for the 3rd time but to no avail as Hashtag worked hard as a unit to keep them out. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as is often the case another tough decision several contenders on both sides in both attack and defence. A few to mention, firstly for Wroxham, Poppy Loveland make several important tackles in defence covered the ground and stayed focused throughout, Katie Green too strong at the back with a number of vital tackles played some great balls forwards too. Lily Alexander got into some good positions centrally used the ball well and got stuck in was a lively midfield. Katie Knights too in the middle making some good runs on hand to score the first equaliser. For Hashtag was a strong team effort from back to front. Chelise Fleming a real handful all game strong on the ball, always available for the quick counter firing her side into the lead. Sophia Mylona with a brace with some good runs in attack too. Leonie Telford and Motunrayo Ojobaro with pace on the flanks get forwards well to join the attack, both doing their part to defend 2nd half. Raissa Taborda get stuck in closing the ball down in the middle, winning her fair share of tackles got the ball moving. Emma Clark with several well timed tackles on the right of defence. The award goes to central defender Sarah Finch, read the game well getting into the right positions to win the ball inside the box, closed down well and as Wroxham squeezed the defence and midfield together in the 2nd half didn’t let anything through.

 An entertaining and heartily contested cup tie from the ERWFL League Cup, my first trip to the Ginger Pickle Arena this season, good to catch up with Wroxham, see Hashtag United Women Reserves in action too, will certainly be a threat for whoever they face in the next round. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Norwich City Women

Sunday 28th September

FAWNL League Cup

Heading to St Neots this Sunday to catch some action from the FAWNL League Cup, a new format for the competition this season with the Determining Round that traditionally opened the competition being replaced with a group stage, I’ll explain it all in short order. Today’s game group Group L with Cambridge United WFC taking on Norwich City Women, both flying high in South East Division One have it all to play for in the League Cup.

The Determining Round the opening round of fixtures in the FAWNL  in previous seasons was a straight forward one of game with the sides drawn together, the winners progressing onto the League Cup itself the losing sides entering the League Plate. A new format this season with the sides across all 6 divisions cross tiers 3 and 4 of the women’s football pyramid, the FAWNL along with sides from the WSL Academy’s drawn into 22 groups of 4, regionally to play each other once, the 22 group winners plus 10 best runners-up then going onto compete in the knock-out stages of the League Cup. The other 12 runners-up, plus 2 third placed sides going onto compete in the knock-out stages of the League Plate.

Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women drawn into Group L alongside Midlands Division One side, Peterborough United Women and Real Bedford Women newly promoted to the Southern Premier Division. Playing each other once Real Bedford Women have won both there matches to lead the group are are likely to progress to the Cup itself. Peterborough have lost their opening two fixtures and have it all to do against Real Bedford if they are to stay in the competition. That leaves Cambridge United WFC and Norwich City Women to fight it out for runners-up spot most likely, Cambridge edging that on goals scored both need to win to have the best chance of being one of the 10 best runners-up.

Group L

Pos Team Pl  W D L F A GD Pts
1 Real Bedford Women 2 2 0 0 4 1 3 6
2 Cambridge United WFC 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
3 Norwich City Women 2 1 0 1 2 2 0 3
4 Peterborough United Women 2 0 0 2 1 4 -3 0

Cambridge United WFC reaching the final of the League Plate a couple of season’s ago changing their manager over the close season with Sean Greygoose stepping up from coaching the U18s to lead the 1st team. A few changes in playing personnel, the club have recruited well bringing on some useful experience to enhance the squad, most notably bringing in attacker Jade Bell from Northampton Town Women scoring 36 goals last season help Northampton finished runners-up in Midlands Division One, has hit the ground running at Cambridge scoring 7 goals in 7 matches. Kim Farrow and Mia Richards also recruited from Northampton bagging 3 goals each too. Starting the season with an opening day defeat to newly promoted Fulham followed by a narrow cup lost to Real Bedford have since won 5 on the bounce in league and cup climbing to 3rd in the table.

Norwich City Women’s main aim is to win the South East Division One title and clinch promotion to the 3rd tier. Know it isn’t an easy task and finishing runners-up for the past couple of season’s are doing all they can on and off the pitch to find that extra crucial yard. Victory at high flying London Bees last weekend saw them climb to 2nd in the table with an identical record to 3rd placed Cambridge setting both up nicely for this afternoon’s cup clash. Signing a number of players up to professional contracts for the 1st time in the clubs history. A strong group of talented young players with a few experienced heads have bolstered their numbers bringing in, the likes of attacker, Eloise Hall from Spurs Academy. Evie Williams played in defence for Ipswich, goalkeeper, Holly Mears comes form Notts Forest Academy. Grace Riglar with good Championship experience playing for Blackburn. And finally Eloise Page most recently with Billericay, used to terrorise Norwich during her time with Ipswich.

 St Neots Town FC’s Premier Plus Stadium the venue for today’s encounter, the way into the town an ever changing construction site with major works going on redeveloping the area. The stadium itself in a built up area boasting a main grass pitch and 3G beside. Viewing all round with a covered seated stand beside the pitch beyond the clubhouse the bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drink. Raining prior to kick-off not forecast to last the game to be played under bright sunny conditions.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Tally Milles, Lauren Tomlinson, Abbie Jackson, Zoe Wood (C), Mia Richards, Shannon Shaw, Jade Bell & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Sophie Shults, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Josephine Jarvis, Lauren Cullum, Becca Stephenson, Flo Hjaltun-Rayner & Alysia Stojko-Down.

Cambridge United WFC

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Holly Mears, Ellie Bishop, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss (C), Evie Williams, Izzy Moore, Sienna Booty, Lauren Hailes, Lara Densley, Poppy Francis & Eloise Hall. Subs – Sarah Quantrill, Holly Kennard, Olivia Cook, Freya Symonds, Natasha Snelling & Drew Wilson.

Norwich City Women

Both sides with good competition on their squad naming strong benches to support the starting XI. Norwich bringing good numbers to support their side a good atmosphere at the ground. The sun emerging as the sides enter the pitch ready for kick-off.

Captain’s Hope Strauss and Zoe Wood with today’s match officials

Cambridge will kick-off the first 45 wearing their amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Norwich in their away colours pink patterned shirts with marron shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to Sammy Edgar in midfield she sends it long into the left channel looking for Mollie Coupar in attack the ball dealt with by Norwich captain Hope Strauss heading the ball away to the left for a throw in.

Cambridge looking to press early on get after the Norwich defence in the final third winning a free-kick out on the left, angled in towards the area, Ceri Flye dealing with it for the visitors, the pressure stays on Cambridge no having the services of long throw specialist, Lauren Tomlinson, at Norwich prior to joining Cambridge they know all about the threat it can pose, the ball into Shannon Shaw inside the box left side hooks it out to the top of the area, Jade Bell looking to bring it down release a shot won’t sit for her before Norwich move in to close her down.

Cambridge continue to press high captain Zoe Wood getting the ball into Bell right channel out to Coupar on the flank, drives on, Ellie Bishop lunging to block her cross the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Swung into the near post cut out behind for a 2nd corner. This delivery sent long across the face of goal, defender Abbie Jackson rising at the far post can’t quite get her head on the ball to make an attempt on goal.

Abbie Jackson heads clear for Cambridge

Norwich having to work hard early on ride out some intense Cambridge pressure, Izzy Moore getting hold of the ball the visitors turn on the counter attack break forwards with pace the ball threaded into Poppy Francis’ path on the right takes the ball on, angling the cross in central, Jackson stretching out a leg to cut the ball out for Cambridge, however the flag is raised for an offside in the middle.

Izzy Moore

Sienna Booty getting hold of the ball for the visitors playing it on for Lara Densley left side has support from Lauren Hailes with Bishops surging on on the overlap to the by-line the cross lifted up to the near post, goalkeeper Lauren Webb claiming it high above her head for Cambridge. The cup tie has a derby feel about it both sides getting stuck in after the ball. Cambridge’s turn to break the ball on the right Mia Richards on for Bell taking it on to the by-line flashes a cross in along the face of the Norwich goal, Coupar throwing herself at the ball far post can’t get a telling touch.

Jackson up to defend a Norwich free-kick flung into the top of the area from the half way line. Both sides hounding the ball in the middle, often popping about skips forwards for Norwich an awkward ball for the Cambridge defence pushed up to try and dealt with Densley rushing in to dispossess, Lauren Rouse runs in behind, closing in on the box right side releases her shot early pulling it wide of the near post.

Lara Densley

Norwich winning a corner on the right as Hailes looks to take the ball on from Bishop. The referee delaying the kick to have a word with the melee of players gathering in a cluster looking to attack. Curled into the near post, Tally Milles turning it behind for a 2nd corner. Lifted high into the six yard box, defender Evie Williams pulling off her marker round the back rising to meet the ball with her head lifting her effort over the bar.

Norwich coming back at Cambridge strong getting the ball into Hailes and Densley making some good runs into the channels, Densley winning a corner on the right. Players up from the back the ball put into the mix top of the box falls to half clear comes out to Flye wide right to cross the ball back in from the top corner of the box, Moore meeting it in the middle her strike blocked by Jackson for Cambridge. Norwich keep players up in the final word press to regain the ball fed into the right wing Flye taking it on her cross cut out by Jackson inside the box.

GOAL! Cambridge are in trouble struggling to get the ball out of their area, Booty snatching hold of the ball for the visitors, lays it back into the area cut out is presented straight to Flye positioned inside the box left of the D, lines up her shot striking the ball back in from 18 yards low through legs, the diving keeper seeing it late past her into the bottom corner 0-1. 

Norwich celebrate as Ceri Flye fires them into the lead

Norwich taking the lead inside the opening quarter hour, getting numbers forward to press and create the opportunity. Cambridge looking a little unsettled Edgar coming left as they look to regroup sends the ball on up the flank for Bell to take forwards cuts her cross square into the area left of goal, Coupar attacking it wrong footing her marker to give herself an opening to shoot, Norwich keeper, Holly Mears making a great save off of her legs as she comes to close the angle.

Norwich goalkeeper, Holly Mears

Hall on the attack driving on with the ball left side for Norwich angles a cross-field ball into Densley up top central holding it up attempts to play the cross into the far post with Hall powering on, Cambridge appealing for offside, Hall dragging her shot wide of the post. Both sides crunching in with some strong tackles free-kicks given away the game allowed to flow for the most part, Edgar picking up a heavy knock. Shaw seeing the ball into her feet inside the Norwich half hooking it on on the turn high into the area, Mears taking it down well into her gloves with Bell rushing in to close her down.

Norwich look a real threat from the counter break well as a unit, Hall given the ball from Booty surges down the right on for Francis, getting past one defender, but not the 2nd as Tomlinson on the cover behind Jackson cuts out her cross. Wood coming right with the ball for Cambridge launched up the wing into Bell her cross headed clear by Strauss inside the box. Hall with a strong challenge on Edgar little quarter being given.

Densley shifting the ball between her feet coming in off the left wing for Norwich into the top of the area letting loose a strike angled in low on goal Webb down sharply to save, gloves out to stop the ball does quite get hold of it, Tomlinson round on the cover well clearing off the line.

Cambridge captain, Zoe Wood

Lively as Moore finds Hall on the right pushing on for Norwich sending it one for Densley moving into the right channel her cross into the top of the area sees Hailes running onto the ball, Webb rushing out to close her down sliding in well to make the blocking save as she pulls the trigger.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb

Norwich fluid through the middle, Moore and Booty getting stuck in after the ball, players making good runs ahead of them. Densley taking it on looking for Hall up top through the middle, Webb out to the top of her area to deal with the threat for Cambridge. Densley’s shoots wide as she id flagged offside as Francis sends the ball into her from the right.

Norwich’s Sienna Booty

Miles putting the ball on for Richards on Cambridge’s right, wins a corner of Bishop as the defender lunges in to challenge. The delivery curled in on the keeper central, Norwich manage to get it clear to the top of the area, Bell collecting it moving it between her feet sending a shot in looking for the top left corner her attempt narrowly wide.

Edgar picking up another heavy knock, needing treatment, a chance for both benches to get their players over to the side-lines take on some fluids and instruction. Up on her feet feeling the knock Edgar is okay to play on. Moving into the final 10 minutes of a fast paced first half Norwich on the ball left side sending a cross into the area from deep, Hall throwing herself at it can’t get a touch as it flies across the face of goal. The visitors retrieve on the right the ball cut back to the top of the area Moore latching onto it her looping effort dipping just over the crossbar onto the roof of the net.

Miles sending a cross from a deep position on the right into the Norwich box, Coupar central can’t quite get her head onto it as Flye clears. Norwich remain a threat on the counter attack, Booty on for Francis right side level with the top of the area squares the ball inside to Hailes on the corner of the Cambridge area, release her shot angling in to the far post, inches wide, had Hall poked her foot at it she would surely have scored coming in behind the defence.

Lauren Hailes

Tomlinson with a throw high on the left for Cambridge into Bell at the near post, turned behind by the defence for a corner kick. A good delivery into the box from the left Shaw rising high centrally heading the ball back down towards goal aiming for the left post, Mears scrambling across her line snatching it up into her gloves before Rouse closing in can divert it home.

Into the closing stages of the first half both sides creating chances, Edgar into Shaw, looking for Bell right channel, Williams closing her down. Shaw given the ball in a central position puts it on for Bell has Coupar to her right, she angles the ball on for Richards wide right, drives on Bishop closing her down, wins the ball, Richards stays on her the pair tussling, Richards winning a corner kick.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

An intense first 45 minutes comes to an end with Norwich holding a narrow advantage, Ceri Flye’s 13th minute strike the difference between the sides. Very much has a derby feel about the cup tie, both sides putting in some robust challenges looking to keep the ball moving and press in numbers. Both keepers called into action with some vital tackles too, chances for both, all to play for 2nd half.

Neither side making any changes at the start of the 2nd half as Norwich get the game restarted. The ball played back into the middle, Cambridge move in fast to close the ball down put the visitors under pressure, looking to release it into the left channel, Strauss into defend for Norwich on Coupar heading the ball out for a throw in. Cambridge working the ball into the top of their opponents area, Flye clearing it for Norwich.

Norwich captain, Hope Strauss

Booty coming no with the ball combines with Densley on the left for Norwich getting up the pitch, Miles into close the ball down putting it out for a throw in. Strauss defending for Norwich getting the ball back to her keeper, as Bell hooks the ball on for Coupar up top. Norwich break the ball played out to the left Hall, up with Francis the shot drilled into the side netting.

Norwich’s Eloise Hall

Free-kicks continue to be given away, Cambridge awarded one on the half way line on the left, Tomlinson told to move the ball back as Norwich vocalise their objections to where it is being taken. Both sides are up for it, clipped long into the top of the area, Booty winning it to clear for Norwich. Some good individual battles all over the pitch, Richards and Hailes just one example the latter coming off 2nd best as both challenge for the ball, hurt play is stopped, but time is taken to recover she is up back on her feet.

Mia Richards battling for possession with Lauren Hailes

Cambridge looking to push players on better in the 2nd half looking to get at the Norwich back line a back pass, sliced by the keeper behind for a corner kick. Played into the near post Norwich don’t get it clear Cambridge with numbers up around the ball hooked out to the right, Jackson looking to hold it up does well to buy the free-kick off Bishop.

The set-piece driven into the box, defended turned behind for a corner kick.. Cambridge applying good pressure themselves now. Curled into the six yard box, defended, Mears getting hold of the ball. Densley with a late tackle on Miles. Bishop bringing the ball on left side with a long cross-field pass into Francis pushing on right side onto the by-line stands her cross up into the six yard box, Rouse launching it clear for Norwich.

Cambridge frustrated as they attack, play stopped for an injury Strauss with a blow to the head in the build up needs to be assessed, but thankfully is up okay and comes over to the side-lines to wait to be called back on. Cambridge with a drop ball in the centre circle Edgar into the left, Cambridge with a throw, Moore clearing for Norwich as the ball is helped on into the top of the area, comes out to the right Miles attacking it driving the ball low back into the mix, Norwich with plenty back to block.

Strauss into challenge Coupar as she shapes to shoot as she receives the ball of of a throw in on the left. Flye picking out Bishop moving forwards on the left sends the ball in central, Moore picking it up shaping to shoot from range, Wood charging the ball down for Cambridge.

Ceri Flye

Cambridge pushing hard for a goal to draw the tie level, the ball played into Shaw 25 yards out moves inside from the left and pulls the trigger a wonderful strike beating the diving keeper, cannons down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Bell closing in on the follow up seeing it land at her feet skipping up off the turf tries to direct the ball wide of the grounded keeper, throws her head into her hands as the ball runs wide of the left post!

Cambridge attacker, Jade Bell

Norwich mount an attack on the right Densley running with the ball shooting on the angle, Webb down behind it to save at her near post, beat the ball away, her defence launching it to safety. Cambridge making the first change of the match in the 63rd minute bringing on Alysia Stojko-Down to replace Shaw. Tomlinson powering forwards for Cambridge on the left playing the ball on for Coupar down the line her cross/shot wide at the near post.

Mollie Coupar

Bell getting hold of the ball for Cambridge left side 20 yards out does well to keep possession holding off a challenge to squeeze the ball into the area for Coupar pulling free at the back post goes to send her strike back across goal, Mears saving well beating the ball down and claiming it. Bishop winning the clearance for Norwich as Cambridge win yet another free-kick on half-way.

Norwich making a double change bringing off Moore and Hall on come Natasha Snelling and Drew Wilson. Cambridge hit Norwich with a counter, Stojko-Down into Coupar left plays in forwards for Bell, Williams getting across to defend for Norwich sending the ball out for a throw. The chances mounting for Cambridge, Tomlinson’s throw into the near post defended out to the top of the box Cambridge snapping in to keep it alive comes to Richards free to the right of the D, unleashes a shrike from outside the box in across the keeper, strikes the inside of the left post flies across the face of goal, somehow missing Mears and cannons off the right, straight into the gloves of the keeper, who falls smothering the ball, needing to catch her breath!

Mia Richards seeing her shot cannon off both posts before being claimed by the grateful keeper

Norwich are looking to slow the game down, Cambridge still snapping after the ball, free-kicks given away. Miles with a high ball into the area from the right caught by Mears central. Bell gathering the ball into her feet centrally for Cambridge on the move taking on Strauss, getting in behind, Flye is around well in support to tackle halt the attack. Both sides making a change, Freya Symonds into the action for Norwich replacing Hailes, Edgar off for Cambridge with Becca Stephenson as the game moves into the final 15 minutes.

Norwich well drilled absorbing alot of pressure from Cambridge, not overly committing going forwards. Symonds adding a new threat into the action straight away winning a corner kick. Swung in from the right, Stojko-Down doing the defending at the near post for Cambridge. Norwich with the ball Francis seeing her cross on the right deflected behind off Tomlinson for a corner kick. Lifted in deeper, Rouse defending it for Cambridge.

Cleared up to Bell, she is pulled down by Bishop the defender earning the first yellow card of the game. The free-kick coming to nothing, Norwich build through the middle Booty on for Snelling who is pulled down by Rouse midway inside the Cambridge half. Symonds over the set-piece goes for goal her effort well over.

The clock ticking down little time left for Cambridge to find a leveller, Norwich with fresh legs on the pitch looking to extend the lead. Both benches unhappy with the decisions, Wood the latest player to be hauled down, no card shown. On half way the ball up into the box turned behind for a corner kick. Played into the box from the left comes on to Richards at the far post rising looks to head the ball back in across goal, on target, Williams is there back on the line to head the ball away for the visitors.

Evie Williams on hand to head Mia Richards header off the line

Symonds clears the ball out of the ground all the way onto the railway tracks, a high speed train roared through 30 seconds later so Cambridge may never see it again. Into the final 5 minutes another switch for both sides Miles off for Cambridge Lauren Cullum coming on for her first team debut. Densley being replaced by Norwich with Olivia Cook coming on. A long throw from Norwich high on the right Symonds inside the box back for Francis to put the cross in Snelling nodding it down into Wilson top of the area she puts her foot through the ball striking over the bar.

Not long left and little stoppage time signalled much to Cambridge’s amazement, Norwich sending on Holly Kennard to replace Francis. Wood putting the ball on for Richards who has a pop from range her shot over the bar. Williams leaning into Bell, seeing Cambridge awarded a free-kick wide on the right one last chance to throw players forwards. Stephenson brings it down near side wins her side a throw in the corner, Richards heading it on at the near post Snelling snatching it clear, the ball fired back into the mix, Norwich clear their lines and celebrate as the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Norwich City Women

Cambridge pushing hard for a reply in the 2nd half seeing the woodwork struck three times, a draw a fair result however Ceri Flye’s first half strike was enough for Norwich to go on an clinch victory were made to work for it but put in a shift to get the result finish 2nd in their group, enough to progress to the Cup itself I haven’t time to analyse all 22 groups now to work it all out 6 points puts you in with a good shout however. Either way Cambridge finish third and won’t be that upset to go on and compete for the Plate this new format may well favour them. Both will fancy their chances of progress either way. An entertaining game felt like a derby all action robust but in good spirit both riding high in the league the improvement from both is there to see, Norwich now with professional players and you can see the difference.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, it’s another tough one but most of the time they usually are. Good performances from both sides a collective effort in both ranks. Several to mention firstly for Cambridge, Abbie Jackson was strong at the back winning a number of vital challenges got stuck in. Zoe Wood in the middle covered the ground trying to link up play get the ball into the attackers. Mollie Coupar with some good positioning getting into the channels ready for the ball. Mia Richards unlucky not to score worked hard to win the ball got forwards well. Jade Bell lively finding space taking the ball on always looking for an opportunity to score. Norwich with a disciplined performance. Evie Williams strong at the back winning the ball, Ceri Flye getting about the park to win the ball got forwards well to when needed scoring the all important winning goal. Lara Densley and Lauren Hailes moved the ball well creating openings kept Norwich on the front foot for good spells. Izzy Moore in midfield won the ball well back to defend and used it well coming forwards the award goes to Sienna Booty like Moore got about the midfield to win the ball helped drive Norwich forwards and played some great balls forward.

Was all set up to be a thrilling game by two sides in good form and didn’t disappoint, the action rarely let up, two committed sides. Both going strong in the league will fancy their chances of going deep into the cup competitions too, the FA Cup up next, Norwich at home to ERWFL Premier Division side Hutton Women. Cambridge likewise taking on ERWFL Premier Division opposition too away to Atletico London, formerly London Seaward FC. For once I didn’t need to chase down a team sheet once out of 621 games.

  by Darren Gilham 

Match Report – Costessey Sports Ladies v Wormley Rovers Ladies

Sunday 21st Sept

Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying

As we enter autumn the women’s football season is finally in full swing with action right across the board, including 128 ties in this season’s Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying. It is to one of these contests I head this afternoon with Norfolk Division One side, Costessey Sports Ladies hosting ERWFL Division One South side, Wormley Rovers Ladies.

 A prestigious competition with a rich history, the prize fund increasing in recent seasons to better match the growth of the women’s game in the country, although still short of what their male counterparts can earn, £3000 going to the winning side today with the losers taking away £750. Teams from step 7 right up to the WSL itself competing in the competition with the teams from tier 5 entering at this stage.

 Costessey Sports Ladies playing in just their 2nd Women’s FA Cup campaign, making it to 2nd Round Qualifying in their debut campaign last season knocked out by ERWFL Premier Division side, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Beat an Essex side at home in 1st Round Qualifying coming out on top in a 7 goal thriller, 4-3 over Premier Division side, Brightlingsea Regent Ladies. Drawn at home once again in 2nd Round Qualifying, taking on ERWFL opposition with Hertfordshire side, Wormley Rovers Ladies.

 Looking to build on a strong finish to last season’s campaign which saw them clinch 4th spot in Norfolk Women’s Division One losing just the one game to eventually champions, Bungay Town Ladies in final 10 games. Building a squad on a strong foundation of youthful talent bringing in useful experience to add to the ranks. Alisha Juby returning to the club after two seasons away, Holly Williams joins having played for both King’s Lynn and Fakenham Town. Phoebe Pierpoint coming to the club from Needham Market. Kyara Everett, joins from Blofield U16s, winning the golden boot for 3 successive seasons prior. Chloe Moulton another recruit from Blofield & Norwich Academy. Jenny Moore the most recent signing stepping up into adult football. Starting the season strong with a 12-0 opening day win over newly promoted FC Viking & Valkyries followed by FA cup success and another 12 goal haul against Division Three side Long Stratton in the League Cup 1st Round. Thea Hackney leading scorer so far with 5 goals.

 Wormley Rovers Ladies burst onto the scene in 2022, and have enjoyed a successful start to life in women’s football, winning the Beds & Herts Women’s Premier Division in their debut season, promoted to the ERWFL, joining Division One South enjoyed further success winning the League Plate Final that year. Finishing 6th last season, had a decent run in the Women’s FA Cup eventually going out on penalties to then ERWFL Premier Division side, Cambridge City Ladies.

  A club with a strong youth setup with teams competing at all levels from U9’s through to U18’s have also formed a new women’s Development side this season playing in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. Have brought in several experienced players to the squad while also promoting youth, Phoebe Ware, Ruby Ball and Jess Cooper all stepping up this season. Goalkeeper, Mia O’Brien recruited too having previously played for London Bees and Stevenage FC Women. Scoring plenty of goals too at the start of this campaign 30 so far from their opening 6 matches in all competitions, an unbeaten run of 5 games ended with a 7-3 loss at home to Colchester United Women last time out currently 3rd in the Division One South table. Won 11-0 against Lawford Ladies to reach 2nd Round Qualifying. Holly Fox top scorer so far netting 8 goals, With Summer Small scoring 7 and Ruby Hawksworth netting 5 times.

 The FDC in Bowthorpe the venue for today’s FA Cup game, one of a number of Football Development Centre scattered around Norfolk, boasting a clubhouse with bar, and café serving hot and cold drinks. A number of practice/training 3G pitches leading to the main pitch itself a large 3G pitch with a small seated stand and standing viewing in 3 sides. Has the facilities to host high profile games and cup finals. Today the 1st official day of autumn, the temperature dropping quite a bit, however there’s still some power in the sun shining down, notice the chill when the clouds cover it though. High above one goal might pose a few issues as the game progresses.

Costessey Sports Ladies starting XI – Kelly Fox, Paige Barnard (C), Alyssia Baldock, Layla Watts, Hannah Campbell, Abbi Nobbs, Holly Williams, Chelsea Brister, Alisha Juby, Thea hackney & Grace Wall. Subs – Cyan Fullbrook, Olivia Smith, Abbie Tate, Sydnie Brown, Phoebe Pierpoint, Kyara Everett & Chloe Moulton.

Costessey Sports Ladies

Wormley Rovers Ladies starting XI – Mia O’Brien, Malia Taylor, Gracie Manning, Aimee Burling, Leah Dunnage, Ciara Purdue (C), Emily Schofield, Summer Small, Ruby Hawksworth, Savannah Japal & Holly Fox.

Wormley Rovers Ladies

 Both sides used to roll on roll off substitutes, the Women’s FA Cup rules seeing a fixed number of subs allowed, increased to 5 with sides able to name 7 on the bench, which Costessey have, Wormley with a late call off naming 6 on the bench from the squad travelling up to Norfolk. 

 Referee Elise Carroll Mileham leading the sides out onto the pitch. Paige Barnard captaining Costessey, Ciara Purdue wearing the armband for Wormley. It’s the visitors to kick-off the first half attacking into the sun, wearing light blue coloured shirts and socks with navy shorts. Costessey lined up opposite wearing red shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and red socks. The ball played back into midfield is lifted long into the right channel for Ruby Hawksworth to attack, Layla Watts dealing with the threat at full back for Costessey the hosts looking to get forwards cross the pitch into Grace Wall plays it up the right channel with Holly Williams providing the run, driving forwards is held up lays it back into Chelsea Brister coming across to support her angled cross dropped into the six yard box, Aimee Burling under it to head clear for Wormley.

 A bright start from both sides, Costessey up against higher league opposition not looknig to sit back, press the ball high, back and forth around the Wormley penalty area, Emily Schofield getting hold of the ball bringing it out for the visitors feeding the pass into the left wing for Savannah Japal to chase down, seeps a cross-field ball out to the right side, looking for Hawksworth, Abbi Nobbs getting her leg out to intercept for Costessey.

 Thea Hackney breaking in behind the Wormley defence looking to close goalkeeper Mia O’Brien down as she rushes out to the top of her area to clear the ball, rushed into her clearance goes away for a throw in the right. Costessey lively, Hackney, Williams and Alisha Juby up top all rushing in to try and close the ball down. Hannah Campbell taking the ball out to the left for Costessey linking up with Hackney the ball rolled into captain, Paige Barnard 25 yards out central she attempts to thread the pass on into the box for Hackney to run onto but it’s a little too strong, O’Brien can see it wide for the goal kick.

Costessey’s Thea Hackney

  Hackney played onto the ball on the right, Wormley seeing her as a threat quick to get numbers around her, captain Ciara Purdue cutting the inside pass out, the visitors quick to launch a counter attack the ball fed on up their right, Hawksworth up with Holly Fox in attack, the ball racing on into the box, Watts gets across the attacker well to shield the ball back to goalkeeper, Kelly Fox.

 Brister moving the ball into the middle, launching it into the right channel for Williams to attack, knocking the ball forwards looking to get in behind full back Gracie Manning the defender recovers quickly to get a foot in steal the ball away from the attacker. Costessey pushed up in defence at times see a ball lifted in behind for Japal to attack left side, Fox is quickly out of her area to win the race put her foot through the ball. 

 Wormley advance down the right winning a throw in the corner, turning it into a corner kick. Swung in tight to the near post, Costessey with bodies in the way to block, the ball deflected to the top of the area, Japal latching onto it blasts the ball back in towards goal, is blocked inside the six yard box, Costessey scrambling it away. Wormley having dealt with some strong pressing from Costessey early on starting to find their own rhythm.

Wormley’s Savannah Japal

 Campbell sending the ball on for Watts pushing on up the left looknig to link up with Hackney the ball helped on Malia Taylor lunging in to send the ball out for a throw defending for Wormley. The hosts getting players up into the final third Campbell right side linking up with Hackney and Juby, the ball crossed into the area, Leah Dunnage clearing for the visitors. Wormley launch a counter trying to catch Costessey’s defence pressed high, Japal sending it on through the middle inside for Holly Fox 30 yards out, Kelly Fox again rushing out of her box to try and close her down, can’t get there as Holly Fox releases the ball sending it past her towards the empty net, not alot of pace on the ball but no one has a chance of reaching it as they look back relieved to see it roll wide of the left upright.

  An energetic opening 15 minutes, both sides up for the tie. Wormley with another chance moments later as Summer Small is put through on goal inside the box right side, Fox saving with her legs from close range, the ball still alive top of the area, Purdue putting her foot through the ball, blocked turned behind for a corner kick on the right. Japal looking to hook it on across goal as it comes into be before the near post, Holly Fox in on the keeper, looking to nod the ball down over the line Costessey blocking hacked clear to the right, Wormley sending an angled shot back into the near post, Fox down sharply to save it.

Costessey goalkeeper, Kelly Fox

  Purdue winning the ball well for Wormley in the middle combining passes with Schofield the ball rolled out to Hawksworth on the right Watts closing her down the ball out for a throw in taken quickly played on for Holly Fox making a right channel attack into the area, Nobbs coming to close her down seeing the ball safely into her keeper. 

 Dunnage winning the header at the back clearing for Wormley as Barnard plays a looping ball into the top of the area. Wormley awarded a free-kick out on the right on halfway the ball played up towards the top of the D, Purdue under it knocking it down to the right, a strike blasted in from distance, Fox down quickly to save to her right. Wall bringing the ball on for Costessey right side plays it up the line for Juby to attack, Manning staying on her, Juby wrestles possession back laying the ball back down the line for Williams who clips a fantastic cross in towards the far post, Dunnage with eyes on it all the way heading it clear for Wormley.

  The ball rarely still, Campbell influencing play taking the ball left combining with Juby and Hackney to cross coming back in across the top of the D, Purdue missing her clearance the ball popping up for Barnard to strike from 25 yards out, sends her strike over the bar. 

Costessey captain, Paige Barnard

 Barnard snapping in to win the ball back in the middle of the park for Costessey trying to turn the Wormley defence around sends a diagonal ball out to the left with Hackney racing in behind, the flag going up immediately, neither she nor O’Brien see it as Hackney shoots, O’Brien dropping down beating the ball away. Play stopped then, brought back for the free-kick.

Williams taking the ball on from Campbell attacking on Costessey’s right, plays it on for Juby ahead of her, the cross delivered into the Wormley area cut out by Dunnage. Hawksworth and Japal switching flanks for Wormley, Schofield looking for Holly Fox moving left, Wall sticking out a leg cutting the pass out. An intriguing contest, feel Wormley might catch Costessey out as they press high, but the hosts are effective pressing the ball pushing the Wormley defence back, Burling and Dunnage reading the game well in the centre of defence though. 

Costessey’s Grace Wall

  Williams racing onto the ball, quick to deliver a cross into the area, Dunnage under it for Wormley. Williams taking the ball on from Juby right side has Barnard running past her looking for the ball up the line, Purdue has gone with her however, tracking back well to put in the tackle deny the crossing opportunity. 

Thea Hackney with Wormley’s Gracie Manning

 Wormley up on the right forcing a corner kick, the ball swung in across the six yard box, Juby doing the defending for Costessey. The hosts working the ball up the right winning a throw Hackney coming across to the right seeing the ball down off her chest pushed into Juby to strike from the angle corner of the area the ball curled in towards goal, O’Brien behind it all the way to save for Wormley.

 Hawksworth brings the ball on down the left for Wormley, Wall lunging in halts her advance, Japal coming back at Wall to squeeze the ball past her, her cross intercepted by Baldock inside the Costessey area. Wormley playing the ball across the pitch into Japal on the right her cut back in towards the right of the D, met by Purdue looking to hit it first time, slices the ball wide of the near post. 

Wormley captain, Ciara Purdue

 Schofield with the ball right side angling it into the area for Holly Fox attacking near post, keeper Fox closing her down quickly to beat the ball away. Costessey break getting the ball into Hackney high on the right her cross swept into the six yard box, Juby closing in at the far post looking to throw her self at it, an awkward height can’t adjust her body to get significant contact. 

Alisha Juby

 Hackney getting onto the ball from Brister driving forwards into the area left of goal closed down sends it back out towards Brister to strike from 20 yards, blasted into the box Taylor getting something on it deflecting it up and on for O’Brien to catch cleanly. Costessey making a change, Williams coming off, Olivia Smith coming on sees a tactical switch with Smith going into the back line, Nobbs moving into the middle.

  Hawksworth looking to chase the ball down on the left for Wormley as it is played on by Schofield, Wall defending well getting across the winger to see the ball out for a goal kick. Wormley awarded a free-kick on the right as watts fouled Japal. Schofield over the ball 25 yards out her strike hitting the wall. But as Costessey look to clear their lines they give away another free-kick in a more central position. Again the wall does it’s job.

Gracie Manning

 Hackney with the ball high on the left angling a shot in across the keeper, O’Brien getting something on it sending the ball on across goal, Barnard rushing in at the far post can’t quite reach the ball as it runs out for a corner kick. The corner swept in across goal attacked by Brister at the far post knocked down Hackney has a swing at it, Wormley hooking the ball clear behind to the right for another corner. This delivery played into the top of the area coming to Nobbs in a central position drags her shot wide of the left post.

 Holly Fox stealing in behind the Costessey defence right of goal, shooting early to send the ball on the angle over the advancing keeper, her strike hitting the far post. Baldock defending on Holly Fox moments later as she looks to get onto a Small pass into the box right of goal, the offside flag is raised however. Manning bringing the ball out from the back for Wormley into midfield into Schofield helps it on for Japal bursting down the right she wraps her foot around the ball angling the cross-field ball into Hawksworth on the left, Wall quick to close her down for Costessey.

 Purdue bringing the ball down off of a throw on the left shooting from the angle 25 yards out her attempt straight at the Costessey keeper. Manning defending on Hackney inside the box right side as Costessey play the ball up to her the ball coming to Barnard high on the right puts the cross into the box cut out by Burling falls to Juby outside the area her lob back in over the bar. 

Half-time Costessey Sports Ladies 0-0 Wormley Rovers Ladies

 A lively first half ends with the sides heading back to the changing rooms all square, both goals intact. Good chances for both sides to score, set up nicely for the 2nd half. A bright start from Costessey didn’t look to sit back invite pressure from their higher league opponents, instead looked to apply pressure themselves get players up into the final 3rd. Wormley coming back at them looking for the passes to get in behind and create opportunities, defences on both sides with a number of vital tackles to keep it all square.

 No changes at the break from either side, Smith coming on in the first half to replace Williams for Costessey as the hosts attacking into the sun get the 2nd half underway. The ball sent long into the channel for Hackney, Taylor defending for the visitors. Wormley looking sharp at the start of the 2nd half as Schofield finds Japal in space on the right whips a dangerous ball into the area, cut out by Wall turned behind for a corner kick.

The corner played in from the right cut out by Nobbs at the near post. Comes back out to the right lifted back into the mix, Holly Fox looking to get over the ball knocks it down, is blocked deflected away for another corner.

 

GOAL! The delivery from the corner angled in deep to the top of the area, Holly Fox meeting it unmarked to turn the ball goal-wards from her header, angling it towards the far post past the keeper, strikes the inside of the post to bounce back in across the goal 0-1. Wormley into the lead 2 minutes into the 2nd half.

Captain, Ciara Purdue the first to congratulate Holly Fox as she heads Wormley into the lead

 A blow for Costessey early in the 2nd half press on the right Brister into Juby the ball into her run sends a cross angling in across goal, Hackney closing in centrally, O’Brien across her getting to the ball first scooping it up into her gloves. Dunnage defending for Wormley stepping out of the back line to intercept the ball as Wall looks to float an angled delivery into the top of the D. 

 Holly Fox coming across to the left for Wormley linking up with Hawksworth exchanging passes the latter stealing into the area, Brister getting in a timely tackle putting her foot in to push the ball on for her keeper to clear. Costessey on the ball Campbell bringing it on down the left inside to Juby on for Hackney, held up by Taylor, Campbell getting it back delivering a cross into the far post, Brister forwards looking to get it under control closed down by Dunnage. Comes back to Hackney outside the area central pulls her shot wide low past the right post.

 Dunnage working hard in defence reading the game hooking the ball away to safety as Juby lifts her pass into the area. Hawksworth gets away with the ball at her feet on the left for Wormley rolled on into the area for Holly Fox, Smith gets her body in the way to defend shield the ball back to her keeper. Purdue charging on with the ball for the visitors looking to play it on for Hawksworth on the left, Wall winning it back well for Costessey. 

Costessey’s Olivia Smith

 

 GOAL! Wormley pushing getting after the ball high up the pitch Purdue proactive chasing the ball down comes out to the left played inside the box into Holly Fox closing down on the near post shoots under challenge, Kelly Fox getting something on it as she goes to ground making the blocking save, the ball deflected straight back at Fox rebound off the attacker to strike the base of the post, the ball coming back out to the left still with Wormley, Costessey switching off momentarily as the ball is played back into the area straight to an unmarked Small just inside to wrap her foot around the ball and blast it home to double the lead 0-2.

Summer Small scores Wormley’s 2nd

 Wormley doubling their advantage in the 56th minute, to get control of the contest. Costessey making a change bringing of Watts and sending on Sydnie Brown a straight swap at full back. Juby also being replaced with Abbie Tate coming on to join the attack. Small having just scored for Wormley is taken off moments after being flagged offside, the visitors sending on Rebecca Evans. Campbell firing the ball into the left flank for Brown to attack, the substitute with pace to burn racing after the ball, Japal going with her holding up Brown on the by-line conceding a corner kick.

  The corner curled in across goal met by the rising Hackney at the far post knocked down back across goal blocked on the line, comes out to Tate outside the D, central stretching as she shoots her effort wide past the right post. The game looking a bit stretched now Japal looking to get onto the end of an Evans pass out to the right, Brown back at her to defend for Costessey. 

 Costessey making another switch bringing off Campbell, sending on Phoebe Pierpoint. Wormley winning a corner on the right taken short into Purdue to sweep a cross into the far post, two attackers leaping for it neither can get a touch. Costessey’s turn to win themselves a corner out on the right another vicious delivery in across the face of goal, Pierpoint knocking it down towards goal at close range the ball once again blocked on the line, comes out towards the penalty spot flashed back in wide of the left post for a goal kick. 

 Holly Fox running through onto an over the top past, left of the area looks to try and lob the advancing keeper, the ball dropping wide past the far post. Rachel Daltrey coming on to join the defence for Wormley with Japal coming off. Pierpoint sending the ball on down the left wing for Brown to chase, Taylor coming back at her to challenge the ball off her for a corner kick. Curled in long past the far post no one getting a touch.

Wormley’s Malia Taylor

 Barnard taking the ball on from Brister on the right firing the ball into Hackney central 25 yards out, sends the ball in on goal looking to get it up over the keeper, but not enough on it to trouble O’Brien. Wall is down for Costessey having injured her foot, needs to come off, Chloe Moulton coming on. Holly Fox coming off too for Wormley with Lily Hanlon coming on to join the action with less then 10 minutes left to play.

Wormley midfielder, Emily Schofield

  Wormley managing the game well dropping back keeping it tight through the middle. Burling and Dunnage well protected by Schofield, Evans and Purdue in front of them. Purdue advancing with the ball threaded on for Hanlon, Fox out rapidly to the top of her area to close her down.

  Wormley looking to take the ball into the corners see out the game, winning a throw high on the right, Evans turns on the ball to send a cross into the area, caught cleanly by Fox. Costessey get on the counter attack the ball lifted out to the right and early cross angled in across the six yard box to the far post Pierpoint closing in on goal sends the ball past the keeper and the left post. 

Lily Hanlon

  Into the final 5 minutes, players tiring on both sides, Tate taking the ball into her feet from the left turns towards the area driving forwards stopped by Burling, the ball nicked back even as Wormley attempt to counter, Hackney top of the D pulling her shot wide of the right post. Burling across to defend kicking the ball away for a throw as Brown looks to burst clear on Costessey’s left. Dropped into Hackney turns to play the ball into Nobbs outside the box central, sends a looping shot in on goal dipping on O’Brien the keeper beating it down, Moulton racing onto the loose ball to blast home right of goal but as she turns she can see the linesman with his flag raised, offside.

  Tate charging the ball down outside the Wormley area deflects into Pierpoint 20 yards out right of goal sends it in on the keeper, bounces up off the turf grabbed by O’Brien. The clock ticking down Wormley break up the left winning a corner, look to play it close keep possession, Hanlon holding it up is chopped down from behind, the final whistle blows up, and Hanlon receives treatment even as Wormley celebrate the win advancing to the next round of the FC Cup.  

Full time Costessey Sports Ladies 0-2 Wormley Rovers Ladies

An entertaining cup tie in the finish, Costessey giving it their all, Wormley respecting their opponents doing their research. The game goalless at half-time both sides with good chances to score, Costessey taking the game to Wormley putting the back line under some pressure. Wormley just with that little bit extra experience coming out strong at the start of the 2nd half getting an early goal to settle things down and catching Costessey cold to add a 2nd get control of the tie. Costessey never gave up tried to find a reply get themselves back into the tie but Wormley could get players back behind the ball pick their moments to go forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  These things are rarely easy but time to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award, honestly to single out a single individual from either side is tough today both put in a good shift. Some great performances out there, firstly for Costessey, Grace Wall played well at right back, won the ball well and offered some good passes going forwards. Goalkeeper, Kelly Fox covered her box well alert to the threat as her defence pushed up. Hannah Campbell with some great runs and passing in midfield. Paige Barnard solid linked up with the attackers well. Thea Hackney a threat throughout and rightly singled out by Wormley as the one to watch. For Wormley, Holly Fox was lively in attack made some great runs creating chances for herself and others. Savannah Japal got up well on the flanks ready to receive the ball and link up with her fellow attackers, Emily Schofield and Ciara Purdue strong in the middle getting after the ball making some positive runs and joining the attack. Aimee Burling winning several balls in defence, the award though goes to her fellow centre back Leah Dunnage read the game well throughout won her headers, closed down and stood out in a sometimes congested box. 

 An enjoyable first trip to The FDC of the season, an intriguing cup time well contested. Good to catch up with Wormley, will be hoping for a favourable draw in 3rd Round Qualifying, making a good start to their league campaign too. Early days in Norfolk Division One but it’s clear to see the progress Costessey have made since joining the league, played well against a higher league opponent, and look to have a good squad to compete at the top end of the league this season. My thanks to both sides for all their help today as always much appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Soham Town Rangers Ladies v Godmanchester Rovers Ladies

Sunday 14th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One

 My first slice of county league action this season, beginning with a game from Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One, with newly promoted, Soham Town Rangers Women hosting Godmanchester Rovers Ladies, who recorded a 3rd placed finish last time out in what was their debut at this level.

 Cambridgeshire once again featuring 3 women’s divisions, expanding from 30 to 39 beginning this campaign with as host of new sides some new reserve and development sides, plus a few moving across from the boarding counties, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Lincolnshire. All 3 divisions looking highly competitive, Division One featuring 13 sides this time around, with 3 new sides joining, the newly Royston Town Women Development, and Cambridge City Women Development along with Spalding United Women, Deeping Rangers Ladies and Soham Town Rangers Women promoted was winners and runners-up last season. Looking at the league it will be interesting to see which sides emerge as title challengers there are several potential candidates.

  Soham Town Rangers Ladies were formed last season, the core of the old Isleham United Ladies side one of the longest established sides within Cambridgeshire that won the Division Three title the season before, given the opportunity to become part of Soham Town Rangers FC football club just down the road they made the switch beginning a new era in Division Two, that seeing the club add to their squad bringing in the likes of goalkeeper, Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls, Ester McTrusty and Carla Penny amongst others bringing useful experience at playing at a higher level. Pushed on to finish as runners-up to win promotion to Division One.

 Carla Penny finishing her first season with Soham as the clubs top scorer netting 35 goals. Have grown further coming into the new season, recruiting more players, amongst them midfielder Rachel Pearce who was most recently at Histon Ladies a wealth of experience to deepen the squad. Soham Town Rangers Women forming a new Reserves side for this season competing in Division Three. Today is Soham’s first league game, will be looking to bounce out following last weekend lose to Suffolk side Ramsey & Mistley Ladies in the FA Women’s Cup.

 A new era of sorts for Godmanchester Town Ladies too as they become Godmanchester Rovers Ladies this season, will be looking to build on a very successful debut season in Division One last time around clinching 3rd spot level on points with 2nd placed Newmarket Town Women Development, having been fighting near the top of the table all season. The core of the side formed from the old St Ives Town Ladies side, becoming Huntingdon Town Ladies for a couple of seasons before moving to Godmanchester. Have recruited strongly over the past few seasons forming a competitive squad.

 Amongst those brought in last season top scorers, Leah Cudone and Hannah Hutchinson scoring 9 and 8 respectfully. As well a finishing 3rd in the league won the Hunts FA Senior Women’s Cup for the first time beating Eaton Socon Ladies 1-0 back in March. Got their league campaign off to a winning start at home on the opening day last Sunday beating new side Royston Town Ladies Development 6-2, Leah Cudone netting a hat-trick with Fran Worrell scoring a brace and a goal too for Molly Thompson.

Soham Town Rangers FC

  My first visit to Soham Town Rangers FC’s home ground on Julius Martin Lane in Soham, the ground a hive of activity upon arrival the carpark full, but did manage to sneak into the one vacant spot. The large clubhouse leading into the stadium, the bar and kitchen open serving hot food and drink, beside that a elevated covered stand over looknig the pitch, with covered standing beside and at both goal ends. Needed if today’s weather forecast was anything to go by with rain likely at some point during the game. Busy with plenty of supporters around to watch the women’s side begin their league campaign. 

 Soham Town Rangers Ladies starting XI – Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls, Chloe Dunn, Amy Ozakpinar, Jodie Copping, Katie Levitt, Erin Clarke, Laura Mcallister, Carla Penny, Ester McTrusty, Rachel Pearce & Elsie Holroyd-Davison. Subs – Jessica Brand, Evie Luker, Lizzie Quigley, Kara Firek & Michela Edwards.

Soham Town Rangers Ladies

Godmanchester Rovers Ladies starting XI – Sophie Marjoram, Leni Stowers, Isabel Vincent, Gemma Cooksley (C), Leah Culpin, Erica Zimmerman, Ellie Harvey, Maisie Buckle, Molly Thompson, Fran Worrall & Shannah Anico. Subs – Nicolle Surtees & Hannah Hutchinson.

Godmanchester Rovers Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Laura Mcallister and Gemma Cooksley with referee Jordan Blunt

 Overcast a few spots of rain beginning to fall as the teams are lead out by today’s match referee, Jordan Blunt. Soham to have the kick-off in the first half wearing green and white vertical stripes shirts with green shorts and socks. Godmanchester lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts and shorts with navy coloured socks. The ball rolled back into the hosts defence, Godmanchester are quick to break forwards press the ball, bouncing about in the middle of the park, Erica Zimmerman getting hold of the ball for Godmanchester looking to release attacker, Shannah Anico into the right, Amy Ozakpinar intercepting heading the ball out for a throw in.

  From the throw Godmanchester keep the press up forcing an early corner kick out on the right. Curled into the near post, Soham with numbers back to block as the ball is turned goal wards, deflected away to the right a shot from distance comes back in on the angle looping high over goalkeeper, Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls goal. The rain beginning to fall steadily the sky dark with cloud.

 Play drawn over to the far side of the pitch with both sides making little headway, Carla Penny looking to get the ball free across the park into Rachel Pearce staying out wide to the right, Isabel Vincent cutting the ball out for the visitors. Godmanchester’s turn to feel the squeeze at the back as Soham push up, goal keeper, Sophie Marjoram playing the ball out of her box straight to Pearce she is quick to lift it back into the top of the area with Penny charging in, Godmanchester captain, Gemma Cooksley jumping well get her head on the ball drop in down into her advancing keepers gloves to stifle the threat.

Gemma Cooksley heading the ball down for goalkeeper Sophie Marjoram to collect

  Soham getting the ball out to Penny on the right, has Pearce up with her on the wing the pass into her she turns to play the ball into Elsie Holroyd-Davison making a run into the right channel looking to get onto the end of it as she enters the box, Cooksley across quickly to slide in to challenge send the ball away to the right. Molly Thompson on the ball central for Godmanchester plays it on for Ellie Harvey moving right attempts to slide it through for Maisie Buckle, a little too much on it however, Soham’s defence can see it out for a goal kick.

Ellie Harvey on the attack for Godmanchester

  Fran Worrall looking a threat for Godmanchester on the left whenever they counter making good runs into the left channel, Zimmerman competing for the ball in the middle played on, Erin Clarke with a timely intervention for the hosts. 

 GOAL! Worrall having broken a couple of times already, bursting away on the left as Godmanchester break up play in the middle, Harvey and Zimmerman closing the ball down the pass threaded into Worrall’s path she skips on into the box turning to shoot across the keeper getting plenty behind it as she strikes the ball into the bottom corner to open the scoring 0-1.

Fran Worrall breaking forwards to open the scoring for Godmanchester

  Godmanchester a goal to the good inside the opening 10 minutes. Soham get straight on the attack form the restart Penny driving forwards with the ball central sending an angled ball out to the right into the feet of Holroyd-Davison strikes for goal her effort blasted wide of the near post.

  Penny linking up with captain Laura Mcallister and Ester McTrusty on Soham’s left taking the ball on down the wing, Leni Stowers sliding in with a strong tackle to send the ball out for a throw in. Worrall played in on the left by Harvey in the middle for Godmanchester, wrong foots full back Dunn, checking inside preparing to cross, before she can, Jodie Copping is across from the middle of defence to put in the blocking tackle to deny her. 

 Competitive both sides moving in to close the ball a number of heartily contested 50/50 balls, Harvey and Thompson contesting on central in pops loose into the right channel for Holroyd-Davison to attack, Vincent getting back at her battling for the ball eases Holroyd-Davison off the ball, leaving her grounded as she clears the ball. The Soham attack feeling it a little, needing to come off to recover, Kara Firek sent on to join the attack. 

  The action end to end both sides intent on getting it forwards Worrall coming inside looking to pick out Anico right side as she breaks in behind intercepted by Ozakpinar turned back to her keeper, the kick out presented straight to Worrall she looks for Anico back coming back from an offside position the flag goes up against her.

  McTrusty surging onto the by-line with the ball for Soham, cuts a cross back into the near post, Penny rushing in trying to meet it on the volley, Cooksley in the way blocking from close range. Dunn being kept on her toes by Worrall full back getting in close doing well to ease her opponent off the ball as she looks to spin round her. Pearce is keeping a good position out on the right providing a ready outlet for the ball when Soham look to get forwards, Penny looking for her plays the diagonal passed, Pearce on the turn looking to play it into the box for Firek moving into the right channel, just a little too much on it, Marjoram can come across see it out for a goal kick.

 Very competitive in the middle, both sides guilty of playing blind passes forwards not picking anyone out. Penny scraping for possession feeding a good ball out to Pearce pushing on down the right her cross squared into the top of the Godmanchester area intercepted and cleared by Leah Culpin. Dunn getting up well on Soham’s right combining with Pearce the ball played across the park into Mcallister sends it down the line for McTrusty, Stowers getting across her path shielding the ball out for a goal kick.

  Vincent tackling Pearce as she takes the ball on from Penny on the right, Soham getting players forwards well applying a bit of pressure to the Godmanchester back-line. However the visitors are a threat on the counter break from a Soham throw high on the left, the ball from Zimmerman into Harvey the Soham defence stretched the midfielder on the drive taking the ball on has options to her left in Worrall racing forwards and Anico to the right threads the ball on for the latter, Anico striking it on the angle, rising Quinn Nicholls at her near post getting her gloves up to palm the ball down into the turf and claim.

Soham goalkeeper, Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls

  The action from one end to the other, busy writing the notes from the Godmanchester attack even as Soham counter the ball on the left played inside to Penny racing into the area hitting the ball hard with her left foot, driving it across the diving keeper the ball smashing off the base of the far post bouncing back out and to Marjoram’s relieve straight at her, snatches it into her body.

Soham’s Carla Penny

  Lively, Clarke in the middle for Soham wide to Mcallister played forwards into Penny the ball cut back across the top of the Godmanchester area met first time by Pearce central her shot angling wide of the left upright. Anico played in wide right again as Godmanchester counter attack, her angled strike beat down again by Quinn Nicholls who wastes no time it getting it up field into her attackers. Culpin sending in a free-kick deep on the left defended by Soham top of the area falls straight to Zimmerman but she does get clean contact as she looks to go for goal. 

Erica Zimmerman

  Marjoram out quickly to close down Pearce inside the box right side as Penny looks to pick her out with the cross-field pass. Marjoram getting the decision as she comes rushing out to deal with McTrusty as Mcallister plays the ball into her left side. Buckle with a piece of superb defending for Godmanchester challenging Penny on the penalty spot as sent in from Pearce on the right. 

 Soham lively break with pace the diagonal ball lifted into the path of Pearce coming in from the right 25 yards out strikes it on the volley from the top of the D, swerves wide of the right post. Godmanchester getting a free-kick central 35 yards out, Thompson to deliver plays a fast paced ball long into the left post area, players gathered inviting but no one can get a touch as it sails wide. 

  Dunn powering forwards on the right for Soham played on for Pearce her cross looping high into the area, Marjoram getting it away to safety for Godmanchester. Marjoram making another sharp save moments later getting down low to push the ball away to her left as Penny looks to bring a left side cross down inside the D and send goal wards.

 Harvey making several good runs on the ball for Godmanchester linking up well with Zimmerman in the middle. Firek getting hold of the ball for Soham outside the area on the turn plays it left into McTrusty inside the box, Cooksley stretching cutting the pass out. Zimmerman lifting the ball on into the right channel as Anico bursts forwards, Quinn Nicholls out quickly to the edge of her box to lay claim to the ball.

  Worrall taking on the ball left channel, held up by Dunn plays it inside to Zimmerman 30 plus yards out time to look up release a shot, her angled shot swung in across goal lacking to power to trouble Quinn Nicholls. Harvey drives with the ball as Godmanchester break sends it into Worrall in behind in to the box left of the D, shapes to shoot, Ozakpinar getting back well to make the block, the ball turned behind for a corner kick. 

 Zimmerman on the corner swung into the area knocked down Thompson moving to strike the loose back, Copping charging it down the ball still with Godmanchester outside the area, clipped back to the left the flag up however as Zimmerman is caught offside. Penny seeing the ball into her body bringing it down well on the turn plays it forwards on the right into Pearce has Firek ahead of her looking to get into the box, Cooksley tracking her reading the pass getting in the way to turn the ball back into her keeper.

  Soham winning a free kick out deep on the right the ball played in across goal, Marjoram going up to claim is knocked to the ground, play stopped as the keeper is in need of treatment. A pause in play but is up and able to continue. Soham looking to push on late in the first half, Clarke and Penny combining through the middle the ball played on for Mcallister getting forwards, Culpin closing her down.

  Good pressure from Soham, McTrusty quick to win it back left side bursting forwards whipping a ball into the six yard box, Worrall back cutting it out to clear for the visitors. Vincent stretching intercepting a diagonal ball aimed at Pearce on the right. Soham with a free-kick out on the left played n from deep not a great ball in but intercepted near side is turned behind for a corner kick. Godmanchester with bodies at the near post clearing Harvey looking for Anico on the counter, Ozakpinar defending for Soham.

  Half-time Soham Town Rangers Ladies 0-1 Godmanchester Rovers Ladies

  The players heading back to the changing rooms with the worst of the rain having stayed away, Godmanchester with the slender lead Fran Worrall scoring in the opening 10 minutes. Soham have responded well creating chances hitting the post and forcing a save from the keeper, while Godmanchester have looked a threat on the counter, with some strong runs through the middle and channels, Quinn Nicholls making a couple of vital saves to keep the lead down to just the one goal. Has been a little frantic at times, certainly competitive in the middle, passes rushed as a result with neither side getting on top of the other. Very much all to play for 2nd half and a quick turnaround too with both sides keen to get on with it.

 The rain falling a little bit stronger now, Godmanchester to get the 2nd period underway the ball played back into the defence, the visitors looking to keep possession, move it around at the back into the keeper, sloppy play as the forwards pass into a defender isn’t collected, presented straight to McTrusty in a central position 25 yards out is encouraged to shoot with the keeper off her line, drags her attempt wide of the left post. 

Carla Penny with Erica Zimmerman

 Play congested through the middle Penny into squeeze the ball lifted forwards for Firek, Cooksley intercepts for the visitors. Culpin moving into clear on the right of defence as McTrusty looks to take the ball on. Worrall gets away with the ball at her feet on Godmanchester’s right flashes a cross into the area, Copping deflecting it out of her box falls to Buckle who strikes it first time from all of 25 yards out her shot over the crossbar.

Leah Culpin clearing before Ester McTrusty can reach the ball

 

  Godmanchester winning a free-kick 30 plus yards out in the middle, Harvey over the ball takes on the shot her effort over the bar. McTrusty fed the ball on Soham’s left taking it on into the box, Culpin recovering well to get back at her put her foot in to tackle, McTrusty scrapping to win it back plays it into Mcallister getting up in support out wide delivers an inviting ball in across the face of the Godmanchester goal, neither Penny, nor Pearce closing in on the far post can get a touch to turn it home.

  Quill Nicholls with a good claim taking the ball down into her chest off of a Godmanchester free-kick on the left. Vincent lunging in to make the block on Firek as she takes the ball on down the right flank off Pearce a corner conceded. Taken short up the line the delivery into the area cleared by Harvey for Godmanchester.   

GOAL! An end to end contest Godmanchester hit Soham on the counter the ball out on the left played on by Zimmerman into Worrall as she looks to get into the box, Quinn Nicholls alert to the threat rushing out to close her down sliding in at her feet making the blocking save, the ball deflected out of the area, the visitors quick to win it back, Zimmerman sending a shot in on the angle over Quinn Nicholls before she can get back into position a great hit to loop over her to find the back of the net to double the lead 0-2.

Erica Zimmerman doubles Godmanchester’s lead

 Godmanchester doubling their advantage 20 minutes into the 2nd half. The visitors with an injury concern however as goalkeeper, Marjoram needs to come off, defender Leah Culpin given the gloves and a bib taking up the role between the sticks, Hannah Hutchinson coming on, with Harvey dropping into the backline. This is a busy game with the action never still a real blow for Soham as they were pushing for a goal themselves.

Leah Culpin now donning the gloves for Godmanchester

  Thompson driving forwards for Godmanchester with the ball at her feet, fed through to Worrall on the left, Dunn getting back at her challenging on the by-line, Worrall managing to squeeze a cross in along the face of goal, Quinn Nicholls down smartly to smother the ball for Soham. Pearce on the right for Soham feeding a cross on the angle into the near post Penny providing the run, Harvey going with her reading the move turning the ball on for Culpin to clear.

   A few free-kicks being given away yet the game remains in good spirits both sides competing, Soham winning a set-piece wide on the right swung into the six yard box, Culpin catching it cleanly. Cooksley cutting out a cross from Pearce on the right heading it behind for a corner kick. Taken short clipped into the near post on the angle attacked by Firek, deflects off a defender to the top of the area, Mcallister latching onto it fires a short in on goal, coming in low Culpin gets down to make the comfortable save.

  Soham making a triple switch sending on, Lizzie Quigley, Evie Luker and Michela Edwards for Dunn and Ozakpinar and Mcallister. Stowers presented the ball on the right advancing with purpose up the wing tackled by Edwards the ball out for a throw. The changes seeing Stowers able to get forwards support the Godmanchester attack playing in inside to Zimmerman gets it back moving into the area Edwards with the blocking tackle the ball deflected of Stowers for a goal kick. 

  Quigley moving across to defend for Soham slides in on Stowers as she looks to get onto the end of a Zimmerman pass the ball out for a corner kick. Soham making two more changes with McTrusty and Penny coming off, Evie Luker into the action along with Holroyd-Davison. Luker straight into the action fed the ball right side sends it on to Pearce out wide bursting towards the box looking for the return pass, Harvey reads it well for Godmanchester going with her to intercept the pass.

  Firek rushing forwards to charge down a defensive clearance rebounds kindly into Luker 25 yards out central lines up the strike, dropped in on the keeper, Culpin gets a glove up to make a fantastic save knocking the ball up onto her crossbar and collecting it as it bounces down in front of her.

  Zimmerman taking the ball on well for the visitors moving to the right on for Anico, plays a diagonal ball into the Soham box looking for Worrall coming in far side, Quinn Nicholls moving forwards to snatch up the ball. Thompson moving with the ball into space on the right, Holroyd-Davison getting back at her to slide in play the ball behind for a corner kick. Zimmerman on the corner an in swinger in on the keeper, attacked blocked inside the six yard box, back out to Zimmerman on the right, her 2nd cross in cleared by Quigley, Firek looking to break right side, Vincent challenging.

  Anico coming off for Godmanchester with Nicolle Surtees coming on up top. Holroyd-Davison clatters into Stowers taking the ball clear on the left her cross et by Pearce inside the area her shot pushed away to safety by Culpin. Penny back into the action for Soham, Anico too as Stowers needs to come off. Moving into the final 10 minutes of the contest, Luker is fouled 25 yards out to the left of the D. Pearce over the set-piece curls it in on goal, Culpin has to deal with it tipping the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

GOAL! The corner fired low into the near post inside the six yard box, players from both sides snatching at it to try get meaningful contact, takes a couple of ricochets before Penny puts her foot through it to blast the ball past bodies on into the back of the net to see Soham reduce the deficit 1-2.

Carla Penny pulls one back for Soham

 Game on as Soham get after the ball wanting to get on with the game Levitt playing the ball through the middle into Penny looks to send it on into Pearce pulling out to the right seeing the threat dropping back to intercept the ball for Godmanchester. The rain falling heavily now, Penny in position top of the area looking to see the ball down into her feet hit on the turn, doesn’t get the contact she wanted her shot rolling harmlessly through to the keeper.

  Godmanchester launch a counter attack, Harvey to Zimmerman out to Thompson right side driving forwards looking to get into the area rides two challenges before firing the ball into the six yard box, Copping getting it away for Soham. Surtees fed into space on the left into the channel for Godmanchester, plays it inside for the advancing Zimmerman lines up a strike from 25 yards out threatening to dip under the bar, Quinn Nicholls with the superb save to tip the ball over the bar for a corner kick. 

 Curled in towards the near post Pearce defending for Soham, break up the other end to win a throw in the corner, Holroyd-Davison’s cross worked into the box taken down by Culpin. The game stretched a few tired legs out there Soham with the late goal finding a little more energy Clarke sending the ball on for Edwards advancing on the left taking the ball all the way into the box tries to get a shot away even as she is closed down her attempt over the bar.

  GOAL! The clock ticking down Soham taking risks pushing players on get hold of the ball on the right Holroyd Davison up with Penny the ball fired into the box, comes straight into Pearce making a central run hitting it first time before she can be closed down on the turn strikes the ball wide past the keeper into the bottom left hand corner to score! 2-2! Pearce’s first goal for her new club.

Rachel Pearce congratulated as she equalises for Soham

Rachel Pearce scoring her first goal for Soham

  Soham fighting back with a goal in stoppage time to get back on level terms with Godmanchester. A hammer blow for the visitors get straight back up the other end to win a corner kick, Soham need to settle the corner swung in to the near post from the right, Quinn Nicholls comes for it well to claim relieve the pressure. Penny with a long ball out to Holroyd-Davison on the right pushes forwards her cross into the top of the area cut out turned behind for a corner before Pearce can attack it, no time to take it the final whistle blows and the points are shared!

Full time Soham Town Rangers Ladies 2-2 Godmanchester Rovers Ladies

  Soham showing good character to keep going and find a goal in the final 10 minutes after Godmanchester had doubled their lead 20 minutes into the 2nd half. Forced into a keeper change, seeing a few positional changes made looked good for their lead but Soham making changes themselves kept going finding a goal and coming back in stoppage time to equalise. A good contest between two competitive sides, Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One is going to be one to watch this season. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. And this is a tough one, there are four players with a strong claim to the award and separating them isn’t easy, add onto that a strong teams performance from both sides and it tells you how competitive it was. Were to start, will go with Godmanchester, Ellie Harvey with a strong game in both midfield and dropping back into defence, with the some great passes and runs in the former role, reading the game well in the latter. Along side her in midfield, Erica Zimmerman won the ball well, played some excellent passes and scored from a brilliant strike to double the lead. Leah Culpin with some great tackles in defence did well in goal when called upon making some good saves. Gemma Cooksley too in defence with several vital interceptions and tackles. For Soham, Elli-Rai Quinn Nicholls produced some great saves to keep her side in contention. Jodie Copping covered the ground in defence to win the ball. Rachel Pearce provided a constant outlet on the right ready to receive the ball and link up with her fellow attackers in position composed to score the equaliser at the death. The award goes to Carla Penny her work rate throughout was phenomenal get about the park to link up play get it moving forwards, close to scoring in the first half, getting the goal to launch the Soham fightback late in the 2nd half.

  That was an enjoyable first trip to Soham Town Rangers, and my first taste of county league action for the season didn’t disappoint, the weather maybe but I’ll have to get used to that, my thanks to both sides and referee Jordan Blunt for the help with the team details as ever much appreciated, the season’s in full swing at last and it’s going to be as exciting as ever.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Thetford Town Ladies v Stanway Pegasus Women

Sunday 7th Sept

FA Women’s Cup 1st Round Qualifying

 It all kick’s off this Sunday with the women’s football getting into full swing across the country with the county leagues beginning their campaigns, lots of action to look forward to including a staggering 163 ties in First Round Qualifying of this years FA Women’s Cup. And it’s that competition where this Sundays match report comes from with a short trip to Thetford to watch Thetford Town Ladies take on ERWFL Division One counterparts, Stanway Pegasus Women.

 The FA Women’s Cup a huge draw in terms of both prestige and potential financial gain for clubs across the county with a rich history. Better reward too in recent season’s with the prize money in each round increasing significantly (although well below there male equivalents). Today’s match winners receiving £1800 with the losing side pocketing £450. A tidy run in the cup a huge incentive for any grassroots club.

 Todays’ clash between two sides competing in ERWFL Division One, both joining the league in the 23-24 season, now entering their 3rd season competing at this level. The ERWFL up to it’s full compliment of 36 sides across 3 divisions, Thetford competing in Division One North, Stanway Pegasus in Division One South, this the first meeting between the pair.

 Luke Pickford stepping down as joint manager at the end of last season having helped Thetford become an established side in the ERWFL recording a 5th placed finish in Division One North, Amber Browne working along side Pickford now in charge of the women’s side bringing in coach Alec Marshall, who has previous experience with King’s Lynn Town Ladies. As competition to join the ERWFL grows, it’s becoming an ever more competitive league and the clubs within it have to respond, Thetford have been busy in the close season having lost a few experienced players have brought in a good blend of experience and promising youth to bolster the squad.

 Gabby Cobb captaining King’s Lynn Town Ladies for a couple of difficult seasons for the club will have gain valuable experience and will be hungry to do well at Thetford. jess Queimedo was also at King’s Lynn last season. Young goalkeeper, Mya Parker impressed at Aylsham FC Women breaking onto the scene and making her self noticed with some impressive displays. Ruby Lakey, Jess Marriot, Megan Chandler and Sophie White are young talents looking to become established at this level while Katie Fray returns after a strong first spell with the club. Defender, Fran Peeling captains the side this season. A tough start to the season however with Thetford suffering a 4-0 and 5-0 defeat in their opening two matches. Have responded well however since clinching a 1-0 win away to Biggleswade United Women last Sunday and a 3-1 home win over local rivals Mulbarton Wanderers in midweek lifting them up to 5th in the table.

 Stanway Pegasus Women start the season with a new management team too with Luke Worley stepping down at the end of last season, Sophie Thorne takes on the managers role along side player/coach Rosi Webb. Webb also the manager of the men’s side playing in the Thurlow Nunn Division One North. Stanway Pegasus a Colchester based club, they and local rivals Stanway Rovers establishing a women’s side at the same time, Colchester United now reforming their women’s set-up sees a strong pool of clubs representing women’s football in the area. 

 Stanway Pegasus Women into their 3rd season in ERWFL Division One South having a good run in last years FA Women’s Cup eventually knocked out by FAWNL side London Seaward FC in 3rd Round Qualifying. My first look at the club despite trying on a couple of occasions last season, so keen to get to one of their games this time around along with a Reserves side competing in Essex Women’s Division Two have resembled a side packed with experience players at this level have seen several in action before several with the old East Bergholt United Ladies side. Have seen a few players depart over the summer while making a few need additions, Amy Thompson and Taylor Cooke both adding quality to the squad. A tough start to the season however with two league defeats and an early exit in the League Cup. Gained their first point of the season in midweek however in a battling 3-3 draw with newly promoted rivals Colchester United Women.

The pitch looking great at Mundford Road

  Thetford Town FC’s, Mundford Road stadium the venue for this afternoons cup tie, the pitch looking in fantastic condition at the start of the season, a slight slope on the pitch from one corner to another. A compact ground with standing viewing on all sides a covered stand over the changing rooms and a modern clubhouse housing the bar serving hot and cold drinks. The sun shining bright with the temperatures back up to the mid twenties as we move into September (only goes downhill from here) A stiff breeze blowing keeping things cooler with some club cover around.

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Mya Parker, Fran Peeling (C), Sausha Levy-Twomey, Jess Marriott, Hannah Claughton, Shannon Chandler, Dayna Howard, Megan Chandler, Jess Queimedo, Liv Dunne & Gabby Cobb. Subs – Keileigh Dixon, Zoe Klimcke, Emily Birt, Ruby Lakey, Sophie White, Mollie O’Callaghan & Katie Fray.

Thetford Town Ladies

Stanway Pegasus Women starting XI – Kaitlyn Brand, Darcy Abel, Jessica Clark (C), Deben Howlett, Teigan McHale, Jade Clemmens, Jessica Gill, Hayleigh Jenkins, Kira Wealls, Amy Thompson & Jade Horne. Subs – Brogan McHale, Imogen Fisher & Rosi Webb.

Stanway Pegasus Women

Captain’s Jessica Clark and Fran Peeling with todays match referee Edward Colman

 Thetford naming a full compliment of 7 substitutes upon their bench, 5 of which can be used. Stanway Pegasus with a few missing, including new recruit Taylor Cooke out with a wrist injury naming just the 3 on the bench. Edward Colman officiating today’s match was also in the middle for my game last weekend at Dussindale & Hellesdon, the FA providing 3 match officials. Stanway Pegasus to get the FA Cup tie underway kicking off the 1st half wearing yellow shirts with black patterning across the top of the chest and black sleeves, black shorts and yellow socks with black hoops. Thetford lined up opposite in their all claret kit.

  The ball rolled back to Deben Howlett in defence, she plays it long into the right channel looknig for the run by Kira Wealls, Jessica Marriott getting their first to win the ball for Thetford. Both sides snapping in to try and win the ball in the opening exchanges, Dayna Howard getting it down under control for Thetford bringing it left sending it on for Hannah Claughton getting on the move down the wing, Darcy Abel at full back cutting the pass out for Stanway Pegasus.

  Pressing the ball in the middle Stanway Pegasus’ defence pushed up, Jessica Gill plays the ball right into Wealls she attempts the early diagonal ball across the top of the area aiming for Amy Thompson powering forwards on the opposite flank, the strong breeze getting hold of it turning it away from Thompson into the arms of onrushing goalkeeper, Mya Parker. Claughton showing attacking intent making some useful runs on the left taking the ball on down the line squares it in central for Gabby Cobb 25 yards out on the turn strikes the ball, dragging her shot wide of the right post.

 Thetford coming forwards well Claughton left side linking up with Liv Dunne, working into the middle across the pitch to Shannon Chandler on the opposite flank her cross into the top of the area cleared by Teigan McHale out for a throw in. Jessica Queimedo sending the ball on for Claughton left flank into the corner whips a bouncing ball in to the six yard box across the face of goal, scrambled clear by McHale at the far post. The hosts pushing Stanway Pegasus back, Shannon Chandler angling a ball into the area from the right, goalkeeper, Kaitlyn Brand down on it to claim at her near post.

  Cobb stealing onto the ball off a loose pass out on the left top corner of the box cuts it back in central for Liv Dunne shifts the ball between her feet before sending a curling effort straight into the gloves of the Stanway Pegasus keeper. Stanway Pegasus winning a free kick deep on the left a chance to relieve some pressure get the ball up into the opposition box, flung into the near post, Parker calls for it and comes to confidently claim the ball.

Jessica Marriott defending for Thetford

  Hayleigh Jenkins taking the ball on looking to link up with Wealls out on the right, exchanging passes the return ball snuffed out by the back tracking Marriott. The visitors defence stepping up in the nick of time to catch Shannon Chandler offside as she looks to run onto a diagonal ball. Thetford advancing down the right Magen Chandler up with Shannon Chandler, the latter fouled as the ball is played forwards into the top of the area, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Thetford captain, Fran Peeling over it launches the ball long towards the far post, too much on it no one can get there as it sails wide. 

Thetford’s Gabby Cobb

 Megan Chandler, Dunne and Cobb all lively up top for Thetford looking to put the Stanway Pegasus defence under pressure. The latter charging down a short pass to take the ball on in behind on the left whipping a cross into the six yard box, McHale is again on hand to intercept and clear for the visiting side. Thetford doing well getting on to press the ball get players up into the final 3rd, Stanway Pegasus riding their luck pushed back, Howlett and McHale getting some vital touches on the ball in the opening 15 minutes. 

Stanway Pegasus’ Teigan McHale

 Forcing errors Dunne latches onto a loose ball to play it forwards down the left channel for Claughton racing into the box closing in on the by-line wraps her foot around the ball firing a dangerous ball in across the face of the Stanway Pegasus goal, Cobb closing in on the far post can’t quite get there to make contact with the ball, turn it home as it runs wide for a goal kick. 

 Claughton getting hold of the ball driving on with it up the left cutting a cross back in towards the top of the area, players back en masse for Stanway Pegasus, Howlett getting it away from danger. The chances mounting for the hosts, Megan Chandler attacking left sending the ball on for Claughton down the line squares the cross into the six yard box, Dunne closing in central onto the ball trying to dig the shot out from under her feet on the turn scoops her attempt over the bar!

Hannah Claughton on the attack for Thetford

   Cobb with an effort on the half volley from outside the box for Thetford drops wide of Brand’s left upright. Chances up the other end limited for Stanway Pegasus, slow to get up and press the ball, Horne up top closely marked by Sausha Levy-Twomey. Thompson making some promising runs on the ball left side the ball fed into her path by captain Jessica Clark, goalkeeper Mya Parker alert to the threat racing out of her box to kick the ball clear before Thompson can reach it.

  Claughton in again on the left played on by Megan Chandler, squaring the ball in central outside the box into Cobb has Dunne up with her the pair combining passes Cobb looking to run in behind off the return pass, McHale reading it well for the visitors lunging in to get hold of the ball in defence. Dunne seeing the ball played into her run from the left shooting from 25 yards out her effort narrowly over the cross bar. 

Deben Howlett

 Abel with a timely tackle to take the ball off Dunne as she looks to break away with the ball in the left channel a corner conceded. Lifted high into the six yard box, Stanway Pegasus with plenty back getting it clear. Horne wins a free kick as she is pushed in the back going up for the ball, top of the circle Stanway Pegasus send it long up to the top of the area left of the D, Jenkins looking to get it down turn to attack the box tackled by Howard.

Thetford’s Dayna Howard

 An pause for an injury seeing referee Edward Colman call for a drinks break, a crucial opportunity for the Stanway Pegasus to regroup as the coaches make their feelings clear demanding more from the side. 27 minutes played the visitors have had to work hard in defence Thetford on top.

 GOAL! Certainly did the trick as play resumes the ball with Stanway Pegasus as they advance fed into Thompson on the left drives on with the ball before firing a vicious cross in on the angle into the corridor, a dangerous ball past the keeper, a defender stretching for it tries to clear but only succeeds in turning the ball on into the net 0-1.

Amy Thompson’s cross turned into the back of the net for an own goal to open the scoring

 The drinks break couldn’t have come at a better time, Stanway Pegasus under pressure lucky to have no conceded finding themselves in the lead with the first attack after the restart. Stanway Pegasus looking energised after the goal, Howlett with a strong tackle to win the ball as Thetford look to get Cobb on the move through the middle. Clemmens turning on the ball central playing it forwards into Horne the attacker turning the ball out to Wealls wide on the right surging forwards delivers a cross into the box the ball intercepted by Levy-Twomey. 

Sausha Levy-Twomey

Thetford looking for a respond Dunne bringing the ball on has Claughton ahead of her racing into the left channel the ball rolled into her feet shoots from the top of area her shoot angled into Brand covering the near post. Clark into Clemmens central sends the ball into the left channel looking for Horne, Peeling winning it back for Thetford. Claughton playing the ball inside to Dunne from the left attempts to play it on for Cobb, Jenkins getting a foot in to divert the ball away for a throw.

 GOAL! Thetford getting players up well to press the ball around the Stanway Pegasus box, won centrally the diagonal ball fed through the defence into Claughton pulling clear to the left, sends another dangerous cross in across the face of goal Cobb closing in centrally, in runs on to the far post with Shannon Chandler bursting in to get on the end of it to turn the ball over the line and equalise 1-1.

Shannon Chandler equalising for Thetford

Thetford back on level terms with a little over 5 minutes left to play in the first half. A more competitive contest more Stanway Pegasus trying to get players up support Horne in attack. Both sides playing some loose passes Howlett up well to defend as Thetford look to turn play around with a ball over the top. Jenkins snapping in to win the ball high for Stanway Pegasus played into Wealls wide right pushes forwards her cross cut out by Queimedo. 

 Abel being kept busy by Claughton getting a timely tackle in to deny her running in behind. Wealls squaring a ball into the D, Thompson and Clemmens both making runs can’t get themselves sorted out to release a shot before being closed down. Wealls over a free kick on the right for the visitors playing a high ball into the area, Parker catching it. Thetford with a rapid counter on the right Shannon Chandler running with the ball sent on for Cobb up top, Howlett stretching out a foot to cut out the pass.

  Horne taking the ball on up the right sending an angled ball into the six yard box, Thompson far side can’t quite get there however has taken a touch off a Thetford player on the way through, corner given. The initial corner out at the near post, Stanway Pegasus keep players up forcing a 2nd corner. This delivery curled in central, blocked on the line the rebound blasted back in on goal, blocked again by a turning defender, Stanway Pegasus appeal for handball, but nothing doing.

 Howlett winning another vital header at the back as Cobb threatens to run clear n behind the visitors defence. Wealls winded a painful blow as she is struck with the ball late in the first half. Thompson taking the ball on left side for Stanway Pegasus, Howard getting back at her to tackle for Thetford. Stanway Pegasus winning a late corner on the right, Parker fouled at her near post as she goes to claim the ball.

Half-time Thetford Town Ladies 1-1 Stanway Pegasus Women

  Al square at the break the side heading into the changing rooms, a much more competitive end to the half than the opening 25 minutes. Thetford imposing themselves getting after the ball, creating chances, however not taking any as Stanway Pegasus battled hard at the back. A break for drinks much needed for the visitors a chance for the coaches to lift their team,, did the trick with Stanway Pegasus into the lead straight from the restart. Thetford continued to create openings and finally took on to level the scores late in the half. Will feel aggrieved could have been 3-0 up on another day. Still at 1-1 all to play for 2nd half.

 Thetford out onto the pitch early for the 2nd half, no changes. Stanway Pegasus making a change, Wealls picking up a couple of knocks in the first half coming off replaced by Imogen Fisher. The clouds have rolled in 2nd half making it feel alot cooler, still pleasant however. Thetford to begin the 2nd half the ball played back to Peeling in defence played out to Dunne attacking on the left the ball cut out by Abel. 

 Fisher linking up with Clemmens in the middle for the visitors the ball fed forwards into Horne in attack, Levy-Twomey lunging in to win the ball back for Thetford. Jenkins now on the right for Stanway Pegasus driving on with the ball her cross fired into the box, cut out by Marriott turned behind off the defender for a corner kick. Curled into the near post defended and cleared up to Cobb in attack, lifts it out to Megan Chandler breaking right, her high ball from the angle into the box, claimed by Brand. 

Thetford captain, Fran Peeling

 

  Thetford pressing the ball around the Stanway Pegasus area, Dunne involved with Cobb and Megan Chandler a strike from inside the D striking Howlett from close range, Stanway Pegasus aggrieved as judged to have struck her hand a free-kick given. Outside the D, Peeling and Claughton over it, the latter striking it over the wall, over the crossbar. The hosts winning the ball back on the left, Queimedo on for Claughton powering her way up the line fires the ball into the six yard box, Cobb racing in near post can’t get the ball under control between her feet turning it behind for a goal kick. 

  Clark playing a throw on for Thompson left wing squared in into the middle for Clemmens 25 yards out, attempts to dink a deft ball over the top for Horne to latch onto as she turns with Levy-Twomey in close attention, the central defender doing well up against her to get the ball away to safety. Thetford making a double change bringing off Dunne and Shannon Chandler, send on Mollie O’Callaghan and Sophie White. Abel is down for Stanway Pegasus too injured and needs to come off, forced into a change, Brogan McHale coming on sees a few players shift positions.

Stanway Pegasus captain, Jessica Clark

  15 minutes gone in the 2nd half Thetford lively get the ball into White charging up the right cutting inside her short is blocked at the near post, spins loose into the middle of the box players swarming around the ball O’Callaghan getting hold of it moves to the right unleashing a shot, again blocked by the defence the rebound coming to Cobb inside the D, is closed down the ball charged clear as Stanway Pegasus clear their lines, Thetford attempt to break get no where as play is stopped with Teigan McHale hurt in the chaos moments ago.

 Keen to get back into the action after receiving treatment. Megan Chandler out to White wide right taking the ball to the by-line her cross intercepted by Brogan McHale. Thetford with a good spell of pressure. Jessica Gill busy on the ball for Stanway Pegasus looknig to make things happen in attack advancing right side strong on the ball plays it on for Clemmens, Peeling coming across to defend play the ball out for a throw. Stanway Pegasus defending hard putting in the blocks bodies on the line as O’Callaghan and White she shots charged down top of the area before Cobb is flagged offside taking the ball right.

 GOAL! Much more competitive in the 2nd half both sides moving in quickly to close the ball down, play getting congested at times a players are drawn over to the ball, Thetford looknig to stop Stanway Pegasus advancing right side, O’Callaghan moving in to press the ball pinging loose, the midfield latching onto it fires it forwards from distance left of the circle, catches the keeper off guard out of position can’t adjust as it races past her an finds it’s way into the bottom corner to put the hosts into the lead 22 minutes into the 2nd half 2-1.

Mollie O’Callaghan’s strike from distance finding the back of the net to sent Thetford into the lead

  Peeling taking a painful blow to her foot as she goes into contest a 50/50 deflecting the ball out of the park in the process play stopped immediately needs lengthy treatment another drinks break called. Thompson taking the ball on for the visitors off of a throw on the left drops a teasing ball into the six yard box Jenkins coming in at the far post attempting to get her leg up control the ball, doesn’t get enough of it as her attempt loops up over the bar onto the roof of the net. 

 Jenkins with some good footwork taking the ball on for Stanway Pegasus sending a diagonal ball into the near post for Horne to chase, Parker behind it taking it into her mid-riff as she flops down onto the turf. Again Stanway Pegasus respond well after the drinks break Jenkins and Thompson looking sharp on the flanks. Thompson in behind on the left lifting a cross into the six yard box, Levy-Twomey clearing for Thetford, Horne with her arms up appealing for a handball but nothing doing.

Thetford goalkeeper, Mya Parker

 

  Gill, strong on the ball for Stanway Pegasus looknig to drive forwards, Howard going with her getting a foot in to take the ball off her. White tracking back well to defend on Thompson as she attacks on the left the ball out of play for a throw. The clock ticking down but plenty of stoppage time to be added. Katie Fray coming on for Thetford replacing Cobb in attack. Peeling in to defend on Jenkins as she moves across the pitch looking to get onto the end of a cross-field pass. Jenkins, pulls down by O’Callaghan as she looks to drive forwards on the right. Jenkins over the set-piece herself from the angle fires over.

  Thetford winning a free-kick on halfway, Peeling to play it long high into the box right of goal into Fray, puts the cross in front of goal, snatched into her gloves by Brand. 

Jessica Gill

GOAL! The ball played into Gill, she turns making a powerful run moving left, strong in possession squeezes it on for Thompson out wide, Peeling going into challenge the ball taking a deflection off her allowing Thompson to run in behind after it flashes a ball with pace into the six yard box a defender sticking a leg out but only succeeds in putting it straight into Horne’s path she accepts the gift and drills the ball past Parker before she can react to level the scores 2-2! Stanway Pegasus equalise with less than 5 minutes of regular play left.

Jade Horne scoring to put Stanway Pegasus back on level terms

GOAL! The celebrations are cut short however a Thetford hit back with an immediate reply getting the ball up towards their opponents area straight from the restart shifted right before being squared back inside, a shot charged down, the rebound falls to O’Callaghan inside the D left side composed bringing it down to strike on the half volley sends a looping effort angling past everyone into the left of the goal to restore Thetford’s lead 3-2!

Mollie O’Callaghan celebrates as she restores Thetford’s lead

 Stanway Pegasus making their 3rd change with the player/coach coming on Rosi Webb into the action in place of Thompson. White into defend for Thetford stopping Fisher from getting away on the right. A yellow card issued as Claughton is upended wide on the left. The Free-kick played long into towards the far post, Fray under it directing her header back in across goal out over the bar. Thetford quick to regain possession retrieved out wide in the corner by Claughton another free-kick won. 

GOAL! Fray with a warning shot moment before the set-piece effectively a corner lifted in again to the far post Fray meeting it with her head once again drilling it back in across goal and scores to see Thetford open a 2 goal cushion as the game enters stoppage time 4-2.

Katie Fray congratulated by her team as she heads Thetford into a 4-2 lead

  A huge blow to Stanway Pegasus late in the contest as Thetford send on Emily Birt. Thetford defending as Levy-Twomey cuts the ball out as Fisher looks to play Horne in through the middle. Into 8 minutes of added on time Parker dealing with a strong back pass from Peeling as she wins the ball under challenge from Horne sending it wide for a throw. Howlett winning the ball high for Stanway Pegasus driving forwards through the middle gets it out to Jenkins on the right, her early ball into the area intercepted by Marriott. Claughton coming off for Thetford, Ruby Lakey coming on. 

Parker collecting the ball into her mid-riff as an angled shot is struck in from the right. Thetford winning a corner out on the right, curled in across the six yard box, Webb up to defend doing enough to put off the attacker the ball turned wide. Fisher dragging a long range effort wide for Stanway Pegasus as they look to get the ball on with seconds left. Fisher sees a wayward goal kick presented to her outside the box, picks Horne out inside the box right of goal screws her shot wide. 

Full-time Thetford Town Ladies 4-2 Stanway Pegasus Women

 The final whistle blows and Thetford win the game 4-2 to advance in this season’s FA Women’s Cup. A more competitive 2nd half, Thetford had more options on the bench, getting themselves into the lead with a long range punt, Stanway Pegasus fought back well to find an equalising goal but Thetford came straight back at them to retake the lead and Katie Fray headed them into a 4-2 lead late on the hosts defending well to maintain the advantage and see out the game. Made to work for the win in the finish after a dominant start to the game, a much needed response from Stanway Pegasus to get into the lead first half, pegged back the scores level was an cup tie full of drama and competitive as you’d except an all ERWFL tie to be

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as is so often the case another tough call but as the report unfolded one player did put themselves into the forefront. Strong performances from both sides, starting with Stanway Pegasus, Amy Thompson was a good outlet on the right ready to take the ball on making some timely runs. Deben Howlett and Teigan McHale with some vital tackles and interceptions at the back certainly helped keep their side in the game early on. Jessica Gill grew into the game busy in the 2nd half some strong running on the ball looked to spur her side on. A strong performance from Thetford back three, Fran Peeling and Jessica Marriott defending their respective channels well throughout. Sausha Levy-Twomey central reading the game timed her tackles beautifully. Liv Dunne with some strong runs on the ball getting forwards linking up play created chances. Megan Chandler with some powerful runs used the ball well. Mollie O’Callaghan making an impact coming off the bench with 2 goals. The award goes to Hannah Claughton got forwards well on the left taking the game to Stanway Pegasus readily available creating chances and kept it up throughout.

  An exciting game to begin my FA Women’s Cup adventure this season. There were plenty of ties to choose from and this one didn’t disappoint. Was keen to see Stanway Pegasus and glad to have done so catch up with some players who I know well from previous clubs. Thetford’s coaches will no doubt be pleased with the squads response after a difficult couple of results to start the season. My thanks to both for the help with the team details today and I look forwards to seeing the draw for the next round of the cup. 

by Darren Gilham 

 

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Royston Town Women

Sunday 31st Aug

ERWFL Premier Division

 Staying in Norfolk this Sunday with a trip into Norwich to watch my first ERWFL Premier Division match of the season with Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women taking on Hertfordshire side, Royston Town Women.

 The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) Premier Division representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England. A 12 strong division, with the ERWFL reaching it’s full compliment of 36 sides across it’s 3 divisions. Promotion to the FAWNL for the title winners. With the WSL expansion an extra two promotion spots will be available across the whole 8 regional sections with the 2 best runners-up gaining promotion, several criteria apply to achieve this and it’ll take alot of explaining, but the overall objection is to see an expansion in sides competing in the top 6 tiers of the game of time.

 Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women won promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division at the first attempt upon stepping up to regional football the season before. Back to back promotions the step up from tier 6 to tier 5 is a large one with to level of talent increasing. Dussindale & Hellesdon’s primary goal to survive their debut season in the Premier Division, taking a while to find their feet in the league began to pick up vital points pulling away from the bottom end of the table to record an 8th placed finish.

 The league will only get stronger and the sides competing in it have to grow, Dussindale & Hellesdon are well aware of that and establishing links on and off the pitch to achieve this. Playing at The Nest in the north of Norwich also serving as home for Norwich City Women, work closely with the FAWNL side as well as a ground share this season have dual signed goalkeeper Amber Locker campaign. Also joining the club bringing a wealth of experience playing at a high level in Norfolk is Rachel Cossey, most recently at Wroxham Women takes on a player/coach role. Leilah Gooding also joins from Wroxham. Millie Baggott is another new addition with ERWFL Premier Division experience joining from Needham Market Women. Dussindale & Hellesdon is also known for bringing young players through, the  foundation of the club making it what it is today with 3 new additions to the squad looking to make an impact, Lauren Baxter, Isla Thorne and Amber Goddard.

 Royston Town Women were pushing hard all season at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division trying to win the title and gain promotion to tier 4. One of the longest established clubs at this level just fell short in the finish dropping points late in the season, with eventual champions Luton Town Ladies on a relentless charge to the top of the table. Finishing 3rd in the table, and successful in retaining the Hertfordshire Women’s Senior Cup having won the trophy for the 1st time in 2024. Looking to maintain their place as one of the leading sides in Hertfordshire have re-established their Reserves side for the new campaign, playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Football League.

 Have seen a few experienced players move on over the close season but have retained the services of their talismanic striker, Emma Slater, the ERWFL Premier Division top scorer last season with 35 goals. Have recruited too having brought in some very good additions over recent seasons, looknig good this season too adding the experienced midfielder, Georgie Giddings to the group, with a wealth of experience playing for clubs like Chelsea, Reading, London Bees and MK Dons. Millie Carter was on loan from AFC Sudbury last season and the goalkeeper makes the move permanent this campaign. Also adding quality to the goalkeeping department is the returning Amy Martin. Kate Edwards also joins from Sudbury, one of the best midfielders around if she can get back to her best. Promoting youth too, with Dilly Haslehurst coming into the senior squad from their youth system.

 The Nest a modern sports facility on the outskirts of Norwich to the north of the city. Boasting a number of artificial and grass pitches, newly build and ever expanding very popular. The main pitch by the clubhouse and café to host both Norwich City Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women this season. New turn styles leading into the ground from one corner. A small covered area with some seating on one side of the ground with standing viewing behind both goals. As Norwich grow fear it may need expansion, which of course is a good thing and their is room for it should that happen. The weather bright and sunny on the final day of August, although a little chill in the air when under the clouds, no rain in the forecast this afternoon.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Amber Locker, Ella Kreuz, Holly Walker, Calista Tink (C), Yve Mitchell, Chloe Shipman, Abbie Gilchrist, Millie Baggott, Leilah Gooding, Kyla Langan & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Sofia Odell, Rachel Cossey, Isla Thorne, Rosie George & Kari Kowalcyzk.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

 Royston Town Women starting XI – Millie Carter, Amy Reed, Jodie Donley, Amy Houghton (C), Cerys Davies, Erin Davies, Georgie Giddings, Kate Edwards, Annie Georgiou, Laura Mills & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Dilly Haslehurst, Stacey Roper, Jess Morley, Katie Hayes & Eloise Cattini.

Royston Town Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  For the 2nd season in a row Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women saw their first home match of the season abandoned due to a serious injury to a player on the pitch, defender, Jess Barnes this time around taking a blow to the face and landing hard. Thankfully after being checked out isn’t too badly damaged and could be back as early as midweek for Dussindale & Hellesdon’s game under the lights away to Wroxham. A few missing for Royston including last season’s top scorer Emma Slater.

Captain’s Calista Tink and Amy Houghton with today’s referee, Edward Colman

 It’s the visitor’s Royston to get the game underway with the sides switching ends at the start the sun high towards the end they are defending could cause a few issues, but the cloud cover will make that sporadic. Royston in their away colours aquamarine shirts and socks with navy shorts. Dussindale & Hellesdon in their all claret kit with a hint of blue on the shirt sleeves.

 GOAL! I’ve seen some quick goals scored at the start of games, but there’s usually a chance to include a line of two of text before, not in this case as Royston get the game underway the ball rolled back to captain Amy Houghton in the centre of defence, sends the pass out to the right for full back, Amy Reed storming forwards on the right, taking the ball on feeds it inside to Laura Mills in attack 25 yards out clips a diagonal ball into the box aiming for the far post, Annie Georgiou racing into the area meeting it on the volley to turn it back across goal past the keeper and in off the far post to open the scoring inside 20 seconds! 0-1. Also on the scoresheet last weekend, Georgiou has already equalled her goals tally for last season.

Annie Georgiou with the quick fire opener for Royston

  A flowing move from the visitors to start the game, catching Dussindale & Hellesdon cold. moving the ball quickly Royston look to get forwards in the opening stages Reed getting on up the right to support Mills and Jordanne Sillitoe in attack, a free-kick won out wide on the right the ball turned in towards the near post, attacked sent over the bar. Abbie Gilchrist snapping in to win the ball through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon, fed through to Kyla Langan up to, has Victoria Leyer in close support the pair trying to work the ball in behind, Houghton stepping in to win it back for Royston. 

Royston captain, Amy Houghton

  The ball cleared long Mills breaking into space in the right channel, pushing into the area, Yve Mitchell coming across to close her down for Dussindale & Hellesdon, challenges coming off the defender for a corner kick on the right. A teasing delivery into the six yard box coming in high, Amber Locker getting her arms up claiming the ball confidently to relieve the danger.

  Holly Walker getting the ball forwards on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon, knocked on down the line a throw won in the corner, flung up into the box, Royston struggle to get it clear as Langan and Leyer make their presence felt, Houghton eventually fouled however Royston awarded the free-kick. A lively start Dussindale & Hellesdon pounce on a loose ball outside the box 25 yards out presented to Leyer she rolls it into the path of Millie Baggott coming on off the right wing strikes it on the angle, flies over the crossbar.

 The action end to end both sides intent on getting the ball into their attackers, Reed bursting on for Royston on the right checks inside before sliding the ball into Sillitoe making a run into the area right of goal, Locker rushing out to close her down, slides in, making a brilliant save to block at her feet turn the ball behind for a corner kick. Another high ball into the middle of the box, captain, Calista Tink getting her head on it to clear for Dussindale & Hellesdon, falls to Cerys Davies outside the box, from 20 yards strikes the ball over the bar.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon bring the ball on through the middle rolled on for Leyer drifting out to the left, squares it inside for Shipman making a run centrally, sends it into Langan ahead of her to the right, Jodie Donley coming to meet her tackling well for Royston to win the ball back. 

  Georgie Giddings finding fellow midfielder Kate Edwards in space to the left of goal from distance lines up a strike blasts it wide of the near post. Has turned into a more even contest with Dussindale & Hellesdon not letting themselves get affected by conceding so early in the game. Both sides remain lively the game fast paced Reed surging up the right collecting the ball for Royston played on for Edwards moving into the channel, shifts the ball between her feet to check inside getting into the box before being closed down by Mitchell.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon with a high line defending on halfway Tink with the high clearance up to Langan inside the area back to goal right side holds off her defender knocking the ball into Leyer outside the D, volleys the ball over the Royston crossbar. Leilah Gooding back to defend for the hosts as Mills and Sillitoe look to plough a path through the middle. The pace of the game is seeing several passes going astray, Dussindale & Hellesdon in particular could do with giving themselves a little more time on the ball.

 Baggott taking the ball on from Ella Kruez down the right laying it inside for Langan 25 yards out turns and shoots from 25 yards out Carter seeing it sail over her bar. Houghton from the back for Royston sending a long ball forwards, with Sillitoe beating the offside trap to run in behind wide on the right striking the ball in with pace towards the near post, Locker, getting her gloves up to take it pops out up onto the crossbar and bouncing the keeper, recovers quickly to snatch it up before it can creep over the line. 

  Not getting a second to catch breath not sooner am I writing about the action at one end play has shifted to the other with Baggott racing on down the right with the ball at her feet coming inside hits a powerful drive in at the near post, past Carter before she can get down to it, the ball cannons back off the upright and is scrambled away to safety.

Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Millie Baggott

 Busy, Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a free-kick on the right 30 yards out, Walker over it dropping the ball into the near post attacked, Royston defend, Carter under pressure getting it away from danger. Royston break on the counter attack, Reed charging down the right taking the ball all the way to the by-line, before squeezing a cross into the near post, Locker down on it sharply, needing to hold on with Mills closing her down.

Amy Reed with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Holly Walker

  The tackles matching the pace of the game, a little on the late side as the ball has been shifted rapidly. Cerys Davies standing her ground as Walker looks to advance down the left for the hosts a throw won high up the pitch, Walker drops it into Gooding who returns the ball wide for Walker to deliver the cross into the box, Houghton under it to clear for Royston. Shipman winning the ball back as Dussindale & Hellesdon get players up around the box, Gooding lifting the ball into the area, Langan and Leyer moving to cross paths as the ball comes in Cerys Davies sticking a leg out to get the ball away from them for the visitors.

Royston defender, Cerys Davies

  A drinks break called with both sides having a player down in need of treatment, Tink for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Cerys Michell for Royston. Both up an okay to continue as play resumes. With Dussindale & Hellesdon’s defence pushed up at times, Locker is dong a good job at the top of her area reading the game, in a good position to get after any balls fed over the top. Needs to be alert as Edwards, Giddings and Mills link up will on the left with some crisp passing the ball knocked on for Sillitoe in the left channel to spin in behind break for the area, Locker out well to close her down, with the blocking save to deflect the ball away from her goal.

  Locker certainly the busier of the two goalkeepers pulling off a brilliant double save moments later with Houghton playing another threatening ball up into the box for Sillitoe to attack right of goal inside the box, Mitchell with her an awkward spin on the ball as it bounces between them, Locker comes to make another blocking save the ball deflected out to Erin Davies top of the D, puts her foot through the ball her rifling shot rising towards goal, Locker recovering throwing her arms up to stop it turning it over.

Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Amber Locker

  Dussindale & Hellesdon winning a set-piece out wide on the right level with the top of the area, the ball floated into the near post, Tink up to meet it turning the ball wide. 

  Leyer with a superb touch bringing a high ball down well into her feet as she moves into a position on the left lifts in inside for Gooding to take on, helps it out to Baggott racing on down the right her cross into the area cut out by Davies. Carter hasn’t been as busy as Locker up the other end but is no less alert, Langan strong in attack holding off players bringing the ball into her feet  turn and shoot low 20 yards out right of the D, Carter diving low to her left making the save getting her body behind the ball.

Millie Carter called into action to save low for Royston

Edwards is down for Royston having picked up a knock, needs to come off, Katie Hayes the player sent on. Baggott advancing with the ball on the right for Dussindale & Hellesdon moves inside before hitting her strike, the ball blocked by the Royston defence. Locker called into action to make another vital save as Hayes is played in behind on the right striking the ball on the angle her shot dipping in towards goal, Locker getting down adjusting to push the ball behind for a corner kick. 

 

 The corner coming in long across the six yard box defended by Shipman at the far post. Erin Davies coming off the worst as players lunge in to try and win the ball in the middle, striking her head on the turf as she falls a pause in play as she is assessed but able to play on. Closing in on the final 5 minutes of an action packed first half. Mitchell closing down, Georgiou to block her shot as she looks to get onto the end of a diagonal pass from Mills. 

Leilah Gooding

 Reed up with play for Royston right side combining with Mills top corner of the Dussindale & Hellesdon box, the shot coming in on the angle saved by Locker at her near post. Walker charging forwards on the left getting onto a pass form Leyer up top lays it back for Shipman to send up into the area, Langan her target right of goal, Donley in well to challenge for Royston. 

 Getting a bit tense out there, a single goal in it Dussindale & Hellesdon pushing hard late on, Royston with a free-kick in stoppage time lifted on for Mills top of the area, looks to get it down, the host defence snatching it away to safety.  

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 0-1 Royston Town Women

 A goal inside the opening 20 seconds the difference between the two sides, Royston with the narrow advantage, set the tone for the rest of the 1st half with the action fast paced end to end, little time to pause for breath. Amber Locker producing a number of fine saves to keep her side in the game while up the other end Dussindale & Hellesdon struck the post and forced Millie Carter into an excellent save. The pace of the game often seeing passes rushed, when both sides have kept it short the passes have looked crisp and sharp and both sides offer a potent threat going forwards in a relatively open contest. After conceding so early Dussindale & Hellesdon would be pleased with the response, Royston may feel they should have a bigger lead. A single goal in it all to play for 2nd half.

  Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change at the start of the 2nd half, bringing on Isla Thorne to replace Leilah Gooding in the midfield. The hosts getting the 2nd half underway the ball played back to Shipman moved out to Kruez on the right, Royston burst forwards looking to close her down, gaining possession play the ball across the pitch Reed looknig to take it on pulled back, no advantage play brought back for the free-kick. Houghton to launch the ball from the top of the circle into the area, dropping central Locker can see it all the way takes unchallenged

  Coming on through the middle Dussindale & Hellesdon work the ball forwards, Thorne into Gilchrist delivered into Leyer out to the right, drops her shoulder moving inside, looknig to take the ball into the area, runs into Houghton who traps the ball in her feet digs it clear. Reed getting up the pitch well for Royston providing them with extra impetus  on the right sends the ball on for Mills down the line her angled ball high into the near post claimed by Locker.

Dussindale & Hellesdon midfielder, Abbie Gilchrist

 A loose ball out from the back from Locker though presents the ball straight to Hayes outside the D, moves forwards, Tink out rapidly to close her down prevents her getting a strike away. Royston awarded a free-kick deep on the right inside the Dussindale & Hellesdon half, a diagonal ball flighted into the area, Sillitoe up to attack in centrally gets a glancing header on the ball not enough though as it goes wide beyond the far post.

Jordanne Sillitoe with Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Calista Tink

  No quarter given both sides competing for the ball, Royston working hard to try and find openings, Dussindale & Hellesdon keen to press get the ball forwards with pace. Donley defending on the left for Royston seeing the ball out safely holding off Baggott as Shipman looks to thread the ball into her on the wing.

 Baggott winning a set-piece high on the right out wide for Dussindale & Hellesdon a vicious delivery into the six yard box no one can get a touch however as the ball is cleared at the far post, launched up to Mills up top linking up with Sillitoe coming left, Kreuz back to defend for the hosts seeing the ball out of play for a throw. Thorne all action in the middle since coming on for Dussindale & Hellesdon looknig to get hold of the ball keep possession bring others into play finds Langan out to the right her ball back in central, a crunching 50/50 between Davies and Thorne sees the youngster come off worst but is soon back on her feet.

Dussindale & Hellesdon midfielder, Isla Thorne

  Is a bit feisty, referee Edward Colman keeping a close watch on things letting it flow while offering useful commentary to both sides. Kruez across to challenge Hayes as Giddings looks to play the ball forwards. Royston making another change with Sillitoe coming off up top, Jess Morley coming on into the middle with Mills pushed up. Shipman to the left sending an angled ball into Langan top of the area, the box crowded, Leyer up with her the pair trying to find a way through but, Royston have numbers back to defend.

Victoria Leyer

  Dussindale & Hellesdon getting players forwards looking to press outside the box, Thorne making a nuisance of herself in the middle, Gilchrist looking to pick up the loose ball feeding it out to Langan on the right looks to square a ball in across the top of the area, Cerys Davies stretching for it cutting the ball out.

 GOAL! Dussindale & Hellesdon have committed players forwards get the ball back on the left Walker driving forwards from the angle strike a powerful shot in across the keeper too score. A wonderful hit to put Dussindale & Hellesdon back on level terms with 20 minutes played in the 2nd half, 1-1.

Holly Walker with a wonderful strike to level things up for the hosts

  Cerys Davies injuring herself in the build up to the goal, needs to come off, with Royston sending on Dilly Haslehurst, moves into a right sided defensive role with Donley moving inside and Georgiou into full back. Langan looking to combine with Baggott in the right channel for Dussindale & Hellesdon, the pair exchanging passes, Langan moving towards the box, Houghton in to defend for Royston.

Kyla Langan

  Tink heading the ball away to the left for a throw as Royston launch a free-kick forwards. The visitors getting up to press the ball moving in across the top of the area looking for Reed coming on down the right, Walker cutting it out for the hosts. Kruez being kept busy in defence by Hayes as she attacks on the left, the full back tracking her runs well. Dussindale & Hellesdon pressing the ball well look sharp when they keep the ball short but risk over committing going forwards, Giddings winning it back picking out Erin Davies as she storms forwards looking to support Mills who has moved into space on the right, Tink rushing across to try and close her down diving in to block her cross the ball behind for a corner kick.

  The corner defended as Morley looks to attack it central, cleared for a throw on the right, Royston get the ball into the area to Davies she lays it forwards into Mills out on the right wide of goal struck on the angle held well, high as it comes in at Locker with pace. Dussindale & Hellesdon making a change, Sofia Odell coming on to replace, Leyer in attack.

 Shipman the latest player down injured as both sides take advantage to take on extra fluids, alot of energy put into the game a few pulling up as a result, Shipman okay though after getting treatment. Tink across sharply to defend on Davies as she gets forwards well on the right to try and support Mills in attack the ball out for a corner kick. Flicked on at the near post, scrambled away to the left for a Royston throw. Edwards coming back on for Royston to replace Reed on the right in midfield.

Chloe Shipman

  Langan getting a ball in the face as a clearance is blasted straight at her. Play stopped once again but no lasting damage. The game continues to move with pace although the 2nd half does have a quieter feel about it, changes and injuries slowing things down. Royston having a few out of position but with the experience to adapt. Mills working hard up top for the visitors to find space stretch the defence making herself available for the outlet ball, Shipman throwing a leg out to make a vital interception to stop her getting hold of the ball.

  Hayes taking on the strike from outside the area for Royston top of the D, taking a nick deflected wide for a corner much to the surprise of the home fans. Curled in from the left across the face of goal Houghton throwing herself at it far post can’t quite get there. The game game moving into the final 5 minutes although there will be a good deal of time added on.

  Royston having made a few positional changes dealing with the threat posed from Dussindale & Hellesdon through the middle, Giddings and Davies linking up well, Edwards too closing the ball down well. Giddings attempted through ball on the right channel missed by Mitchell as she goes to cut it out running on for Mills, Tink is there to support quickly round on the cover the get to Mills and close her down before she can shape to shoot cleared out to the right.

  GOAL! Royston getting players up the pitch pressing the ball from the throw won back forced inside falls to Mills unattended 20 yards out right of the D strikes the ball on the half volley dipping in towards goal with pace is stuck beautifully, past Locker before she can react to find the back of the net and put Royston back into the lead. 1-2.

Laura Mills with a superb strike from outside the box to fire Royston back into the lead

  A blow for Dussindale & Hellesdon late in proceeding having competed well to get back on level terms, Royston using their experience well working the ball into feet late on Edwards looking to get away on the right, Walker lunging in to tackle for the hosts. Baggott coming off for Dussindale & Hellesdon with Rosie George coming on. Into stoppage time Thorne with some clever foot work in the middle slipping a threaded ball into George as she advances on the box right side, her touch a little heavy giving Carter the opportunity to advance and snatch it up into her gloves.

Annie Georgiou holding of Dussindale & Hellesdon’s Rosie George

 Hayes winning the ball for Royston finds Giddings pulling wide sends it on for Mills in attack, cut out by Mitchell. Carter getting hold of the ball top of her area as Dussindale & Hellesdon look to play it on for Langan in attack. Sillitoe back on late in the game for Royston to give them added presence up top. Mitchell off for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Rachel Cossey comes on. Tink pushed up the pitch as the hosts look for a late reply.

  A throw won high on the left, Giddings defending for Royston. Mills using her experience to draw the foul keep the ball in Royston’s possession. Sillitoe picking up a yellow card for Royston, Thornton moving the ball well between her feet for Dussindale & Hellesdon slides it onto Odell attacking the area right of the Royston goal, Georgiou into clear it for the visitors. Eloise Cattini introduced for Royston as they look to see out the game, Sillitoe off. The clock ticking down one last opportunity for Dussindale & Hellesdon to get the ball into the box off a Walker free-kick on half way, up to Thornton top of the area looks to get it under control turn but is quickly closed down the ball cleared as the final whistle blows, Royston winning the 3 points stay 2nd in the fledgling Premier Division table.

Full time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 1-2 Royston Town Women

  An enjoyable contest, if exhausting write up the action non stop, an early goal seeing Royston take the lead, Dussindale & Hellesdon didn’t let it affect them came back to compete well, both sides with good spells moving the ball, likewise however times when they could have used it better, the ball rarely still, Amber Locker with a number of fine save keeping the score-line down, Royston seeing the post struck as the hosts tried to find a reply Carter too called into action but one goal the difference going into half-time. A quieter 2nd half if no less tense Dussindale & Hellesdon fighting back to level the scores. Royston needing to dig deep using their experience and guile to craft a 2nd goal late in the contest and claim the 3 points in Norfolk.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match another tough one and strong contenders from both sides, not easy to single one out, plenty of performances to mention. Firstly for Dussindale & Hellesdon, Amber Locker with a number of quality saves especially first half to help keep her side in the game. Calista Tink in defence reading the game well with a number if crucial tackles covered well. Ella Kruez was kept busy at full back, played well throughout. Isla Thorne looked to make an impact coming on 2nd half made a good impression. Holly Walker with a superb strike to level the scores. For Royston, Millie Carter wasn’t as busy in goal but under pressure with her defence deep at time read the ball well and ready when called into action to save. Amy Houghton won several interceptions and played some useful balls out from the back. Amy Reed got up well on the right to support the attack. Erin Davies and Georgie Giddings were solid in the middle, Davies with some good forwards runs too, Giddings covering the ground to win the ball. The award though goes to Laura Mills linked up the midfield and attack, finding pockets of space throughout and a ready outlet as Royston looked to attack, her winning goal never looked in doubt the second it left her foot.

  In terms of entertainment I think the ERWFL Premier Division is one of the best and rarely fails to deliver, is a strong league with alot of good talent of all ages on display. Today no exception, enjoyed that one. My thanks to both sides for there assistance this afternoon as always appreciated a busy week for both with a round of midweek games scheduled, both against their local rivals, Royston hosting Stevenage on Wednesday, with Dussindale & Hellesdon away to Wroxham on the same night.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Luton Town Ladies

Sunday 24th August

FAWNL South East Division One

Heading to St Neots this Sunday for my first slice of FAWNL action of the season, from South East Division One, representing the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid with Cambridge United WFC hosting newly promoted, Luton Town Ladies.

 The FAWNL, growing year on year and the pressure on the clubs to compete and grow within it getting stronger as the FA looks to push for clubs further down the pyramid to strengthen their women’s sections the ultimate aim to get clubs within tiers 3 and 4 of the game to take on a fully professional model. I think we’re a few years off that especially tier 4 but no doubt it’s ever more competitive.

 Cambridge United WFC are one of the stalwarts of tier 4, playing in the league way back in the old Combination league days right up to the FAWNL as it is now, would dearly love to win promotion and get into tier 3 and in recent seasons have garnered closer links with Cambridge United FC themselves, creating a women’s board at the club. A new era for Cambridge United WFC with the departure of manager, Darren Marjoram after 4 season’s in charge. Also departing the club Liz Pamplin with 25 years service as player and coach and everything else, a big miss, but remains on the women’s board. Sean Greygoose taking over as 1st team manager, having been looking after the U18s side previously along with a spell as assistant coach under different management, is joined by coaches Ben Yeomans and Sam Carrington in the dugout.

 A new era, but a relatively stable base to build on, several player departures over the close season, but so too new arrivals brought in a busy summer of recruitment within the club as they prepare for a new season. Midfielder, Zoe Wood returns to the club after a season out during her pregnancy. With another 7 new faces joining the squad. Full back, Lauren Tomlinson joining after a couple of season’s with league rivals Norwich City Women, Shannon Shaw to joining Tomlinson from Norwich both proving themselves at the top end of the league looknig to propel Cambridge forwards. Defender, Tally Miles joining Cambridge having previously played for Royston Town Women and MK Dons Women. Josie Jarvis has been playing her football out in the states for the past 4 seasons. With a trio of players joining from Northampton Town Women who finished 2nd in Midlands Division One last season, largely helped by the goal scoring prowess of Kim Farrow and Jade Bell scoring 53 goals between them, Farrow, with experience too playing for MK Dons netting 17 goals with Bell who had a brief spell at Cambridge before, netting 36! Mia Richards also joining from Northampton scoring twice in Cambridge’s final pre-season game with Billericay. Retain the services of last season’s top scorer, Bella Simmons who scored 14 goals, a 9th place finish last time out but clinched silverware winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup.

Luton Town Ladies are back in the FAWNL, winning the double in the ERWFL to clinch promotion after a 6 season absence. With a single promotion spot available in the ERWFL  getting out of the league takes alot of effort, Luton building momentum over the past couple of season’s enjoying some great runs in the FA Women’s Cup along the way, easing their way too top spot in the finish winning 20 of their 22 matches played as well as clinching the League Cup. That success to a large degree helped by Natasha Fensome’s goals netting 32 last season, Luton retaining hr services as they return to the FAWNL.

Haven’t sat on their laurels either, FAWNL South East Division One a much different and far more competitive league to the one they left behind have been busy off the pitch with player recruitment bringing in 11 new signings to compete at this level and have brought in 11 new faces many with useful experience playing at this level. Striker, Amy McLean their first signing joining from Bedfordshire rivals Real Bedford Women, Emily Wilson previously with Luton’s U18s also re-joining the club from Real Bedford. Summer Gayle also added to the attacking options coming in from Ashford Town. Taylor O’Leary is a midfielder with a wealth of experience to enhance the squad. Another midfielder moving to Luton is Janaye Beaufort. Ellie Sergeant is another player returning to Luton. Goalkeeper, Nicole Mulling was at QPR for the past 2 season’s. Another player joining from QPR with plenty of FAWNL experience is Courtnay Ward-Chambers. Sasha Smith and Kiyana Fryer both join Luton from Chesham United Women. Defender, Lisa Milliken another departing Northampton this summer.

Plenty of new faces brought in by both clubs will take time to settle, whether the league fixtures allow it is another matter, Luton nevertheless hitting the ground running with 2 wins from 2 to start the season, 3-1 at home to Dulwich Hamlet Women in the league on the opening day followed by a good win at home in the League Cup group stage against Spurs Women Academy. Cambridge in contrast suffering two narrow defeats losing 2-1 away to newly promoted Fulham on the opening day conceding in the final 10 minutes there conceded in the 97th minute at home in their League Cup Group game against tier 3 side Real Bedford Women.

The way in to St Neots ever changing with a massive amount of development taking place on the infrastructure and road network leading into the town. Cambridge United WFC continuing to call the Premier Plus Stadium home of St Neots Town FC home, however once again have number of games planned at The Abbey Stadium, home of Cambridge United FC. Situated in the heart of a built up area, the main stadium with a grass pitch a seated stand on one side, an artificial playing pitch beside. Standing viewing all round, the kitchen hatch open at long last serving hot food and drinks. A hot and sunny day for the summer bank holiday, although a covering of cloud kept the temperature pleasant if a little muggy.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Sophie Shults, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Abbie Jackson, Sammy Edgar, Zoe Wood (C), Mia Richards, Kim Farrow, Jade Bell & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Lauren Webb, Lauren Rouse, Tally Miles, Alysha Stojko-Down, Becca Stephenson & Ella Marden.

Cambridge United WFC

 Luton Town Ladies starting XI – Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith, Fiona Buttigieg, Nicole Farmer, Elizabeth Mulvaney, Janaye Beaufort, Shianne Swarres (C), Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Taylor O’Leary, Shanice Lewis & Natasha Fensome. Subs – Sarah Hudson, Kiyana Fryer, Lisa Milliken, Amber Leighton, Summer Gayle, Emily Wilson & Ami Martins.

Luton Town Ladies

Teams in the FAWNL allowed to name 7 on the bench this season, able to use 5. Both sides with a rarity able to name back up goalkeeper on the bench and both clubs have strong competition in that department. New signings, Josie Jarvis, Lauren Tomlinson, Mia Richards, Kim Farrow & Jade Bell starting for Cambridge with Zoe Wood the new captain this season. Likewise Luton’s starting XI full of new recruits with Nicole Melling, Sasha Smith. Janaye Beaufort, Courtnay Ward-Chambers and Taylor O’Leary all on from the start.

Captain’s Shianne Swarres and Zoe Wood with today’s match officials

 It’s the hosts Cambridge to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. Luton lined up opposite wearing blue coloured shirts with white sleeves, orange shorts and white socks. The ball put back into the middle, fired long into the left channel for Mia Richards racing forwards, Sasha Smith at the back for Luton dealing with the threat.

Luton’s Sasha Smith

 The ball out for a throw, Cambridge looking to press high early on getting players up around the ball. Forcing another throw Cambridge work the ball up the line Lauren Tomlinson up the pitch with Richards the cross lopped up into the six yard box, Fiona Buttigieg under it for Luton heading behind for a corner on the left. Swept in with pace through the six yard box an inviting delivery cleared beyond the far post, Luton look to mount a counter attack the ball driven into the middle but find no way through.

  Competitive in the middle of the park, Luton captain, Shianne Swarres linking up with Taylor O’Leary on half way the ball clipped on the diagonal out into the right wing for Shanice Lewis to attack, Tomlinson across to close her down defending playing the ball off the attacker behind for a goal kick.

Cambridge’s Lauren Tomlinson

 Players getting stuck in Buttigieg winning it at the back on the left putting it forwards onto Courtnay Ward-Chambers, Sammy Edgar coming back at her to close the ball down stealing it as the pair come together, sends it forwards even as Ward-Chambers goes to ground, Luton appealing for the foul don’t get the decision, Ward-Chambers saying something she shouldn’t the referee close by, blowing up straight away, no hesitation showing Ward-Chambers a straight red sent off for dissent with just 5 minutes on the clock, Luton down to 10.

Courtnay Ward-Chambers shown an early red card for Luton

  Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the right launched long into the far post area, Nicole Melling coming for it making a good claim high in the air. Jade Bell lively up top for Cambridge getting into the channels looknig for the ball, snapping in to press the defence, taking it on from Kim Farrow central attempts to slide the ball in behind the Luton defence for Mollie Coupar, Melling alert to the danger quickly out to the top of her box to close her down clear the ball away to the right. 

Luton goalkeeper, Nicole Melling

 Luton hit Cambridge on the counter attack the long cross field ball deceiving a high back line with Natasha Fensome making a perfectly timed run through the middle coming right, goalkeeper Sophie Shults racing out of her area to try and close her down. Fensome thrives on these situations knocks it past the keeper getting in behind lining up a shot back across goal from 20 yards out the Cambridge defence racing back round on the cover, Tomlinson throwing herself to the ground to slice in make the block divert the ball away from goal. 

Natasha Fensome

  Edgar battling for possession in the middle for Cambridge congested at times, does well to squeeze the ball into Richards drifting in from the left, takes on the shot from range, her effort driven wide of the right post. Cambridge pushing players on Jarvis taking the ball on up the right sending the pass into Bell cuts inside to shoot from the angle 20 yards out with the outside of her boot flashed in low on goal, Melling down smartly getting behind it to knock the ball wide across her goal out the far side for a corner on the left. 

 Cambridge sending in another dangerous delivery from the corner through the six yard box missing everyone, Luton snatching it away at the far post falls to Edgar top of the area strikes it on the half volley, flies up over the bar, however a corner is signalled taking a nick on it’s way through. Curled into the far post, O’Leary getting up to defend for Luton away for a throw in the corner high on the left. I’ve undoubtedly mentioned this before but Tomlinson does possess a very useful long throw, often a bane for United especially wearing a City shirt, will be a huge asset now, flung into the near post cleared to the top of the area, Bell latching onto it shifting to her right pulls the trigger her shot charged down, the ball deflected out to the right Wood gathering looknig to drive to the by-line, Buttigieg closing her down for Luton winning a goal kick off the Cambridge captain.

Luton defender, Fiona Buttigieg

  Luton looking to keep things tight at the back dropping off, but alert to the counter timing their opportunities to get forwards, Janaye Beaufort threading a great pass on through the middle for Lewis to chase, Tomlinson going back with her getting across her well to shield the ball back into her keepers gloves. Brook Cheal-Ferris, intercepting well at the back for Cambridge as Beaufort attempts another through ball on for Fensome central.

Luton captain, Shianne Swarres

  Cambridge looking to use their player advantage Tomlinson getting on up the left on for Bell, plays it inside to Wood, cut out by Swarres, Luton look to counter attack, O’Leary up to Fensome, Cheal-Ferris across to defend for the hosts. Richards with a shot from range blasted over a Farrow knocks the ball down into her path.

Cambridge’s Brook Cheal-Ferris

 GOAL! Closing in on the 20 minute mark, Cheal-Ferris bringing the ball on from thee back for Cambridge sending it up the wing for Tomlinson the full back keeping the ball in play racing with it up the line before whipping in a threatening ball into the six yard box, on a plate for Farrow closing in centrally, nods it down across the keeper at close range to open the scoring. 1-0.

Kim Farrow meeting Lauren Tomlinson’s cross to put Cambridge into the lead

  Luton fighting for the ball, O’Leary with a strong tackle on Edgar, as she looks to get the ball away up the left. Smith in well to close Richards down as she looks to get the ball under control wide left. Edgar feeling her backside, needs treatment, the referee pausing play for both sides to take on fluids. Cambridge lively looking to push on Tomlinson and Jarvis up on the flanks, Bell coming to receive the ball, linking up with Farrow, Richards and Coupar. Luton trying to counter by slowing play down trying to keep hold of it doing well duping Cambridge into forcing the final pass.

Kim Farrow

Josie Jarvis getting forwards for Cambridge

 Wood drifting out to the right with Bell the cross put long across the Luton are, Richards trying to keep it alive on the by-line, Smith in to close her down winning the tackle. Cambridge with a free-kick on halfway to the left Cheal-Ferris high into the area, headed away, Luton look to come the other way, Lewis getting onto the ball driving through the middle, the Cambridge defence converging on her en masse no way through. 

   Lewis making herself available for the pass on Luton right, looking to take the ball on, Tomlinson in to defend for Cambridge. Jackson sending Jarvis away on Cambridge’s right plays the ball on for Bell up the line her angled cross coming in high at the near post plucked down well by Melling. Luton’s Beaufort winning her fair share of the ball central lifts it on for O’Leary outside the D, a click flick lifting  ball over defenders into Fensome making a run in behind, Cambridge have players back on the cover, the pass cut out runs back to O’Leary 20 out puts her foot throw the ball, Jackson turning to block, strikes the defender, Luton appeal for a handball but Jackson had her back to the ball arms by her side the referee not giving it if indeed the arm was struck.

  Closing in on the last 10 minutes of the first half, Jackson coming to close down Swarres on half way, the ball does strike her hand this time as the midfielder attempts to scoop the ball over her the free-kick given this time. The ball launched up into the top of the area it’s Jackson with the header away to the left, Buttigieg meeting it on the volley outside the area, fired back across the goal wide past the far post.

  Luton working hard gaining a little momentum going forwards, O’Leary cutting the ball out sending a diagonal ball out to the left, Buttigieg getting forwards to knock the ball on into the area Fensome making a run to the near post to attack it, Jackson throwing herself in front of her to make the block, the ball turned away for a throw on the left. The visitors growing frustrated with some on field decisions, as Cambridge clear at the back Jackson with the long clearance up into Farrow charging into the area left of the D, doesn’t quite get hold of her shot as she goes to place it past the keeper into the bottom corner, Melling gathering it safely into her gloves. 

 GOAL! Cambridge winning the ball well in the middle, Edgar playing a great ball long up into the path of Richards coming into the area from the left, looking to meet the ball as it falls into her path, the keeper starts to come, Richards catching it sweetly to lift the ball up over the keeper and down into the back of the net beyond to double Cambridge’s lead late in the first half 2-0.

Mia Richards doubling Cambridge’s lead

Midfielder, Sammy Edgar with the assist

GOAL! No sooner have they gotten their 2nd goal then Cambridge grab a 3rd, the attack pressing the ball in defence outside the D, Luton loosing possession as Bell steals in on the ball with the keeper, pushed up to the top of her area, takes it away to the right giving herself a yard of space to tee up  shot into the open goal beyond to open her account for Cambridge 3-0.

Jade Bell with Cambridge’s 3rd goal opening her account for the season.

 Melling hurt in the build up to the goal needing treatment, Luton conceding twice late in the first half deflated. Jarvis slides in to defend on Fensome as she moves to the left looknig to get after a pass laid on by Beaufort. Cambridge winning a corner on the right curled in central on the keeper, Melling getting her arm up to punch the ball on across her goal out behind on the left for a 2nd corner. Swept in high to the far post, Buttigieg getting it away. 

 Bell seeing the ball into her feet back to goal right side sending the ball on for Wood on the overlap her low cross claimed by Melling low at her near post. Into the final moments of the half Cambridge getting up the pitch, Wood into Coupar right of goal 20 out Bell close by put into her feet Bell returns the pass Coupar screwing her shot wide of the upright.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 3-0 Luton Town Ladies

  Cambridge taking full advantage of their opponents player disadvantage to lead 3-0 at the break. Luton down to 10 after just5 minutes with Ward-Chambers sent off for dissent. Nevertheless the visitors have battled hard to keep Cambridge chances limited, creating a few good opportunities on the counter themselves. Cambridge making it count on 20 minutes with Tomlinson breaking forwards to put an inch perfect cross into the box for Kim Farrow to score. The final ball a little awry a times Cambridge found the back of the net for two more goal late in the first half to hammer home the advantage and put themselves into a very good position going into the 2nd half.

  Both sides making a chance at half-time with Emily Wilson coming on for Luton a straight swap for Lewis out on the right in attack. Alysha Stojko-Down coming on for Cambridge in midfield replacing Farrow. Luton to get the 2nd half underway, the ball long out to Fensome on the left, Jarvis in to defend for Cambridge the ball out for a throw in. Luton working the ball down the line the cross fired in from Wilson knocked down back across goal at the far post, Cheal-Ferris snatching it clear for the hosts.

  Wilson looking to take the ball on for Luton early in the 2nd half ask Cambridge’s defence some questions, sends a cross in with pace across the six yard box. Playing out from the back Cambridge send the ball on for Tomlinson bursting on down the left linking up with Coupar drifting wide she goes past her on the overlap taking on the return pass before lifting a looping cross into the middle of the six yard box, Melling under it to claim the ball into her midriff.

  Cambridge coming on Wood an outlet right channel seeing the ball into her feet coming inside pushed into Bells goes on into the box, Bell looking to roll the ball into her path, Melling comes rushing out to slide in smother the ball before Wood can get hold of it. Cambridge winning the ball centrally Stojko-Down on for Bell in space, rolls it on for Coupar to the right of the D, taking the ball wide into the area shoots firing the ball back across the keeper, too close though Melling can scoop it up into her gloves. 

  Another coming together between Edgar and O’Leary leaves Edgar on the ground feeling the injury she picked up first half, needs to come off this time, Cambridge making the change with Becca Stephenson coming on, moving into a right attacking position. Buttigieg busy at the back for Luton winning the ball well, cutting out several Cambridge passes, the visitors defending their box well. Farmer too clearing a ball through the middle from Stojko-Down.

Nicole Farmer clearing the ball for Luton

  Mulvaney getting on for Luton looknig to link up with Fensome, getting the return pass slips as she goes to pull the trigger from distance seeing the shot run harmlessly into the keeper. Cambridge seeing alot of the ball winning a corner on the left flashed into the area, O’Leary with the headed clearance for Luton back out to the right, Jarvis outside the area latching onto it firing an angled shot in on goal, Melling palming it away to the left.

  Bell, Wood and Coupar pressing the ball in the final 3rd, Stojko-Down moving up to put a scooped pass into the box, Farmer getting her head on it to clear for Luton. Cambridge dominating play without really opening Luton up the defence deep winning the ball, have players up top who can do damage if the right pass is picked out. Another strong appeal from Luton not getting the decision.

Cambridge’s Mollie Coupar

 Cambridge winning a free-kick on halfway to the left swept long to the right, Wood seeing it down moving forwards to angle a cross into the middle, Coupar running in jumping can’t quite get her head to the ball. Tomlinson bringing the ball on left side, Wood taking it on from her to cross, long to the far post Buttigieg back to win the ball for Luton. Wood back on the right tracking back sliding in to deny Fensome with a robust tackle as she looks to get on the move with the ball. again Luton are frustrated at not getting the decision, O’Leary venting her frustrations going too far earning herself a yellow and shown to the sin bin, Luton down to 9!

 Sin bin’s lasting 10 minutes, can Cambridge use the two player advantage to their benefit? Bell winning Cambridge a corner off of a Jarvis throw on the right. Cheal-Ferris to take, before that though some kerfuffle’s in the box to deal with, the referee having a word with Coupar and Farmer. The corner swung into the area, Swarres defending for the visitors back out to the right, Cheal-Ferris onto it her attempted cross blocked by Fensome.

  Luton making another change with Lisa Milliken coming on to replace Smith in defence. Richards played in on Cambridge’s left swinging a cross into the six yard area, Melling claiming it. Luton fighting hard but frustrated with on field decisions feeling they’re not getting their share, but remain in the game working hard are finding the positions to win the final ball, Cambridge for all their possession not able to capitalise. Coupar trying her luck from 25 yards out, her shot deflected off, Beaufort away for a corner kick. 

Cambridge’s Becca Stephenson with Luton’s Janaye Beaufort

 Cheal-Ferris to play the corner in from the right flashed in high, Richards is tall leaping up but can’t quite get her head onto the ball. Jackson is penalised for handball seeing ironic cheers from the Luton supporters as Buttigieg tries to play the ball up to Mulvaney, the free-kick given on half way. Buttigieg clipping a well struck pass long out to the right for Wilson who brings it down well, however to her frustration the offside flag is up against her. 

Luton’s Emily Wilson

 Cambridge pour forwards the ball into Bell moved on to Wood wide to her right sends a diagonal ball back to the left into Richards path, fires an angled shot in back across goal wide of the far post. Luton loose at the back as Cambridge press hard, Melling rushing in to dive in at Coupar’s feet charging the ball down the rebound from Coupar struck over the bar.

 No Goal! Cambridge up on the right Jarvis with the ball at her feet sweeps a deep cross into the corridor, Coupar pulling off the defence leaping for it even as the keeper comes, h=they collide did Coupar get a glancing touch on the ball hard to say the ball sailing on past both into the back of the net but Melling is in a heap in her goal the referee ruling in her favour no goal, hurt in need of treatment another long pause in play. Both sides to their dugouts to take on fluids and instruction. 

 Melling can’t continue Luton forced into a change, have Sarah Hudson ready to enter the action takes up her position between the sticks. Swarres coming off too, with Amber Leighton. Beaufort winning the ball looking to play Leighton in straight away through the middle, Cheal-Ferris quick to snap in cut the pass out for Cambridge. O’Leary back on for Luton.

 Fensome picking up the ball inside the Cambridge half to the left driving on avoiding one tackle is upended by Jackson as she runs across her legs tangling gets the free-kick outside the box. Farmer over it goes for goal shooting over. Buttigieg with a vital touch in defence to nick the ball off Bell as she looks to see the ball into her feet off Wood and turn in behind, 20 yards out. Bell continues to work hard in attack looking for an opening for Cambridge to bring others into contention flicks the ball out to Richards on the left her cross back in looking for Bell’s run into the area, shapes to hit it on the turn, Milliken throwing herself in to make the block for Luton.

 Cambridge getting the ball up into Richards win a corner on the left, swept into the near post, Melling punches it away across her goal for a 2nd corner on the right. Lifted into the top of the area, Mulvaney clearing for Luton. The visitors counter the ball coming right into Wilson on for Leighton through the middle, Shults racing out to the top of her area saving at her feet with the blocking save. The game moving into the final 7 minutes Luton bringing off Fensome, send on Ami Martins. Cambridge too making a switch Ella Marden coming on to replace Richards on the left. Marden putting the ball on for Coupar left wing her angled cross into the near post attacked by Bell, Farmer sliding in getting in the way to deny a goal scoring chance.

 

  GOAL! Into the final 5 minutes Tomlinson with the ball in her possession on the left sending a well placed pass into the path of Bell coming in off the wing to race towards the box, Hudson coming to close the angle, Bell shoots sending the ball across her to find the bottom corner 4-0. 

Jade Bell scoring her 2nd of the match for Cambridge United

 Luton conceding a 4th are undeterred as they fight for the ball after the restart, O’Leary nipping in with the tackle releasing Martins into the box to the left of goal, bearing down on the six yard box under challenge from Jarvis does well to get a shot away Shults out to close her down, staying big to make the save.

Cambridge goalkeeper, Sophie Shults

  The clock ticking down Cambridge have dropped off in defence a little leaving space for Luton to exploit, keeping a clean sheet might be creeping into the back of their minds. Coupar coming off late on with Tally Miles joining the action for Cambridge. Beaufort winning the ball for Luton teeing up Milliken to shoot from range blasts her effort over the bar.

GOAL! Into stoppage time Cambridge send the ball forwards Stephenson bringing it under control right side playing it inside to Bell top of the area, right of goal has Wood inside her the close pass into her feet, digs the shot out to fire the dipping shot past Hudson to strike the inside of the far post and deflect into the goal for her first of the season 5-0.

Zoe Wood scoring at the death to add a 5th Cambridge goal

 Wood opening her Cambridge account for the new season with virtually the final touch of the game, to seal a 5-0 win and get Cambridge’s season up and running after two narrow 2-1 defeats.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 5-0 Luton Town Ladies

 No doubt a busy week for all the FAWNL clubs 3 games in 8 days to start the season, certainly going to be interested to digest. Cambridge after two narrow 2-1 defeats winning 5-0 at home against Luton side down to 10 players after just 5 minutes. A 5-0 win in the finish for Cambridge, Luton didn’t make it easy although I feel the clean sheet might mean just as much following their previous games. Luton had to dig deep never easy going down a player earl in a match, fought well, and created some good chances despite it whilst frustrating Cambridge up the other end. Strange as it may seem but this could be a positive, 5-0 defeat aside, will hurt but with soo many new players this was a performance to bring them together and may well prove defining in the end. Both sides with positives and minus’s to take out of their opening 3 matches, one thing’s for certain South East Division One is going to be fun to watch this season.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to choose this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, strong candidates on both sides this is by no means an easy call. Full credit to Luton’s ten players worked hard, dug deep and had a frustrating afternoon. Defended well putting in some vital challenges. Fiona Buttigieg in particular won her tackles and looked to get things going in attack. Janaye Beaufort in midfield won the ball well, competed throughout. For Cambridge, Josie Jarvis linked up play well on the right5 winning her tackles and got the ball forwards. Brook Cheal-Ferris intercepted numerous balls and offered a good threat with her corner deliveries. Captain Zoe Wood got into some great positions in the right linked well with Bell up top created several chances scoring at the death. Lauren Tomlinson was strong in defence, winning the ball got forwards well adding to the threat going forwards with two great assists, is close between her and the winner have gone for Jade Bell, looked sharp throughout lively finding some great positions working the defence bringing others into the attack and ready to strike on goal scoring twice with two good finishes.

  First slice of tier 4 action of the season, remarked early on about how much the league has grown since Luton were last in it and that is good for the game overall. Clubs have to move forwards support their women’s side or get left behind. Not always easy I know, will be interesting to see who emerges on top but with the talent on show it’ll be a great watch. My thanks to both clubs for their help today, I might know the players but it is always useful to check. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Newmarket Town Women v Histon Ladies

Sunday 17th August

ERWFL Division One North

 Well that was another very successful summer for women’s football in this country with England’s Lionesses, winning the Women’s Euro’s to retain their hold on the trophy for another 4 years, simply fantastic even if they did put us through it a times. Have enjoyed a good break myself with a long than planned rest but here we go again entering my 12th season of covering women’s football in the East and it looks to be another competitive season right across the board.

 Beginning the season with a game from ERWFL Division One North, with Newmarket Town Women taking o Histon Ladies. Finishing 3rd and 2nd respectfully last time around, both have bolstered their squads as they both look to be amongst the sides vying for promotion to the Premier Division.

 The ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid across the East of England. 36 sides spread across 3 divisions a 12 strong Premier Division with 2 12 strong divisions split loosely into North and South with the winner of each winning promotion to tier 5. Concentrating on Division One North today, Histon and Newmarket finishing 2nd and 3rd last season will be amongst the favourites this time around but others will be in the mix too, Dunstable Town Lionesses, Colney Heath Ladies move from the southern section into the north. Cambridge City Women, relegated last season with a young squad looking to rebuild will be looking to make a positive impact. Hertfordshire side, Hitchin Belles Women, and Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds, from Cambridgeshire are newly promoted to the 6th tier. Other sides have recruited well and only after the first half dozen games have been played will a better picture of the title contenders emerge.

 Newmarket Town Women are one of the longest established clubs in the league which has expanded to it’s full capacity of 12 sides in recent seasons and has certainly been turbulent in the past. Harpenden Town Women to runaway leaders in the league last season, Newmarket along with Histon and Dunstable battling all the way to end behind them. Newmarket eventually clinching 3rd place and will be keen to build on that finish push for promotion this time around. A club very much built on youth and bringing players on through the age groups. Have retained their Development side for the coming season providing a vital link to the 1st team with several coming through last campaign to feature for the 1st team.

 Millie Docking top scorer for Newmarket last season with 15 goals returns for a 2nd season dual signed from Cambridge United Women. Also joining Docking from Cambridge is fellow attacker Emilia Reinhardt adding pace will trouble any defence with her strong runs will the ball as Newmarket themselves found out last season. Another striker adding another dynamic to Newmarket’s attack is Ella Burnley joining the club this season. Defender, Sydney Daniels too, joining the 1st team squad this season.

 Histon Ladies are still in the process of rebuilding their women’s setup after regaining promotion to the ERWFL 2 season’s ago. A strong campaign seeing them finish as runners-up in the league as well as reaching the Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup final, coach Matt Payne bringing in Kevin Jacklin to help manage the 1st team, will a wealth of experience in the women’s game in Cambridgeshire. More changes to the coaching team this season with Jacklin moving on to oversee all women’s football and a new 1st team coach with Darren Marjoram coming to Histon after leading FAWNL side Cambridge United WFC for four years leading them to their 1st national final along the way. Joining Marjoram form Cambridge is Liz Pamplin, a shock to see her depart Cambridge after 25 years service as player, coach and everything else, does still retain a place on the women’s board at Cambridge however while excited to get back in the dugout with a coaching role at Histon.

Histon Ladies finishing runners-up in ERWFL Division One North last season losing just the 2 matches both against champions Harpenden Town Women. Had a prolific attack with Evie Nicholls top scoring with 19 goals. Poppy Smith along side her netting 16 along with club legend Sophie Hopkin. Smith making the move to play her football in the USA this season. Histon looking to build on last season’s success have added with experienced full back Abi Davies returning to football after a short spell away. Have also brought in a handful of youthful talent with Holly Plummer, and Gwen Davis-Jones coming to the club from Cambridge United WFC’s U18’s along with Evie McCulloch. Poppy McCleod and Summer Taylor joining from Cambridge City’s U18s.

The Tristel Stadium home of several of Newmarket Town FC’s sides the venue for today’s season opener. The artificial playing surface well used offering good width standing viewing on all sides with a covered seated stand next to the changing rooms and clubhouse the bar and kitchen open serving hot and cold drinks. A hotter than expected day too temperatures in the mid twenties with the cloud burnt off early a bright sunny afternoon. Histon winning 2-1 in the respective fixture last season, the points shared in a 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture.

Newmarket Town Women starting XI – Dominika Szary, Holly Dryland, Kara Wayman, Ellie Sturgess, Sydney Daniels, Abi Gibson, Katie Walker (C), Millie O’Dwyer, Abbie Corbyn, Abbi Griffin & Emelia Reinhardt. Subs – Toni Smith, Niamh Bridgeman, Ella Burnley, Eden Kirby-Cook & Evonne Yerrell.

Newmarket Town Women

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Mollie Childerley, Eloise Page, Abi Davies, Claire Krueger, Laura Leyland (C), Jess MaCrae, Molly Banks, Belle Howard, Tash Collins, Holly Plummer & Evie Nicholls. Subs – Gwen Davis-Jones, Sophie Hopkin, Summer Taylor, Poppy MacLeod & Evie MaCulloch.

Histon Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Laura Leyland and Katie Walker with today’s referee Theresa Robichaux

Kicking off in August can pose a problem with player availability and both sides are without key players for todays game, Histon most notably with no recognised goalkeeper through work commitments with right back Mollie Childerley donning the gloves to todays league opener. Defender, Claire Krueger literally getting off a plane to attend today’s game. It’s Histon to get the match underway with the kick-off first half wearing red shirts with black vertical stripes on the front, with black shorts and socks. Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and white socks. The ball rolled back into Molly Banks in midfield clips a pass long out to the left for Holly Plummer to attack, Holly Dryland seeing it safely out of play for the hosts. 

Histon’s Molly Banks with Newmarket’s Millie O’Dwyer

 Newmarket looking to play the ball out from the back moving it across the pitch before sending it into the left channel for striker Emilia Reinhardt to chase, a little too much on it on this occasion. Abbie Corbyn pushing up in attack for Newmarket coming in off the left top of the area charges the ball down as Histon look to clear their lines takes the ball left into the box reaching the by-line before cutting a low ball into the six yard box, scooped up cleanly by Childerley in the Histon goal. 

Mollie Childerley donning the goalkeeping gloves for Histon this afternoon

 Histon captain sends a free-kick on the right up the line Histon forcing a throw in high up the pitch, full back Eloise Page getting good distance with her throw launching it into the top corner of the Newmarket area, Ellie Sturgess closely marking striker Evie Nicholls, prevents her from spinning off her with the ball to try and get inside the box. Newmarket looking to get the ball moving forwards quickly trying to pick out Reinhardt as she bursts away down the right, Abi Davies keeping her eye on the ball to cut it out for the visitors.

Histon’s Abi Davies

  Sturgess bringing the ball out from the back unopposed for Newmarket has left back Kara Wayman racing on down the flank, sends the ball into her path, Leyland moving out from the centre of defence to get across her shield the ball out for a goal kick. Both sides a little tentative probing each other out both with one up top a little congested in the centre. Belle Howard snapping in to win the ball well centrally for Histon puts a diagonal pass out to Plummer coming inside from the left, she attempts to play it over the top for Nicholls breaking through the Newmarket defence, but they have stepped up well catching her off-side.

  Newmarket press players forwards captain Katie Walker sending a through ball into Reinhardt to the right of the D, Jess McCrae putting in the blocking tackle, Newmarket retrieving the loose ball on the by-line flashed across the six yard box to the right of goal force a corner kick. Abbi Griffin lifting a curling ball into the near side the defensive header missed the ball dropping at the far post, Sturgess getting hold of it back to goal, looks to turn is quickly closed down. 

Histon counter McCrae with the forwards pass to send Nicholls in behind to the right off goal, Szary quickly out to close her down Nicholls taking on the early lob getting it over her but not on target as Newmarket get hold of the ball far post to turn play around. Competitive through the middle, Banks releasing Tash Collins out on the right wing getting forwards looks to square the ball in central for Nicholls, Sturgess running back with her getting in the way to intercept. 

Newmarket defender, Ellie Sturgess

Page getting up the right taking the throw in’s for Histon look a threat, Howard pushing up with banks outside the Newmarket box right of goal, Abi Gibson closing Banks down putting in the blocking tackle the loose ball spinning right into Page on the overlap hooking a cross in central to Nicholls in front of goal, leaping up to get her head on the ball knocks it down into the turf bouncing wide of the far post.

  Newmarket aiming to get the ball up into Reinhardt as quick as they can a high ball awkward for the Histon defence over them but not close enough for Childerley to claim top of her area has to wait to see it safely into her area even as Reinhardt looks to steal in, dropping on the ball getting clattered by the attacker in the process. Childerley making a timely call soon after to burst out of her box to clear the ball as Newmarket get it forwards from a throw deep in their half. 

  Walker with a very good pass on her given time on the ball in the middle to play a great diagonal ball into Griffin on the right of attack, running onto the pass driving forwards shoots from 25 yards out on the angle her effort driven wide of the near post. Histon getting a little ragged with their passing a loose goal kick won straight back on the right the cross from deep collected by Childerley at her near post. 

 A pretty even contest both sides cancelling each other out to a degree, Corbyn seeing the ball into her feet left side turning to attack down the line checks back to cross, the ball into the middle cleared by Krueger in defence. Nicholls winning Histon a corner up the other end on the right, Fired in to the far post the ball headed up in towards goal claimed smartly by Szary in the Newmarket goal.

Newmarket goalkeeper, Dominika Szary

  Szary getting the ball upfield quickly the Histon defence dropping off a throw conceded on the left, Sturgess getting forwards on the left firing a deep cross into the area, Krueger heading clear for the visitors. Newmarket beginning to find some momentum getting players on to link up with Reinhardt in attack, Corbyn working the ball inside from the left Howard getting a foot in to stop her advance, just as the referee blows up for a drinks break.

  Play resumes with Newmarket getting themselves a throw out on the right O’Dwyer playing it inside for Gibson squares it to Walker central 30 yards plus out takes on the strike, through the defence but not troubling Childerley beyond as she moves across her goal to gather up the ball. Leyland moving in to put a tackle in on Reinhardt as she looks to control and turn to shoot 25 yards out. 

Histon captain, Laura Leyland tackling Newmarket attacker, Emilia Reinhardt

 Reinhardt lively up top looking to get hold of the ball run at the defence, Leyland and Krueger giving her little room through the middle. Newmarket the livelier of the two sides since the drinks break taking the game to Histon, Walker pushed up beyond Reinhardt with Corbyn inside the D as the attacker threads the ball into her attempts to play Corbyn in, the Histon defence quick to get numbers on her to close down the space wrestle the ball away to safety.

  Griffin taking the ball on right side lifting a high cross into the near post, plucked down safely by Childerley. Szary up the other end almost a sweeper keeper at times marshalling the top of her area well alert to the threat posed by Nicholls breaks in behind clearing it to Sturgess to her left she sends it on for Wayman breaking up the wing looks to combine passes with Corbyn going on the overlap but the return ball is a little too strong. 

Newmarket’s Kara Wayman

Walker’s passing giving Newmarket an extra edge as they look to get players on down the wings, Walker herself making a un into the D as Dryland sends a cross in from deep on the right on the run Walker can’t quite get hold of it as Leyland clears the ball back out to the right, Griffin sending it back into the six yard box, Corbyn central looking to bring it down off her body to strike on the volley fires her shot over the bar. 

 Page playing the ball in across the top of the Newmarket box from the right looking for Nicholls, Daniels moving in to close her down win the ball for the hosts at the back. A few mis-timed tackles coming in from both sides as Newmarket press the ball looking to get forwards. Banks with McCrae central for Histon forwards into Collins on the right in the clear to square the ball in along the top of the area, Nicholls racing in far side, Dryland tracking back on her to slide in and win the ball well for Newmarket. 

  Newmarket quickly on the counter with Wayman once again breaking on the left down the line her initial cross blocked by Page, the loose ball spinning to Corbyn on the touchline 20 out plays it inside for Gibson outside the box, Banks with the blocking tackle the ball spinning loose into Dryland central strikes it from range the driven strike screwing wide of the left upright.

  Histon livening up late in the 1st half as Nicholls charges down the defence to steal in behind moving to the right of the area, bearing down on goal Szary out to close her down stays big arms out wide to save the shot knock the ball out to the right, Histon push up to get hold of the ball forcing a corner. An in swinging delivery put under the bar, Szary getting a fist on the ball to divert it behind to the left of her goal for another corner.  

  GOAL! The delivery fired into the middle of the box with pace, attacked by Krueger her head down in front of goal blocked scrambled clear but straight into Nicholls beyond the near post smashes it back in towards goal through everyone to hit the back of the net to see Histon take the lead in the 36th minute 0-1.

Evie Nicholls celebrates as she opens the scoring for Histon

  Newmarket going a goal behind counter well the ball put into Walker pushing upfield 25 yards out slides it through into the box for Reinhardt bursting inside left of goal, from the angle six yards out smashes a rising shot into the side netting. 

Nicholls impatient to get back onto the pitch having come off after receiving treatment for a knock, in doing so, Banks finds her unmarked on the right wing to break on with the ball at her feet, Szary rushing out to close her down, Nicholls looks to drag the ball inside her get in central her touch a little strong giving Daniels the split second she needs to slide in win the ball back inside the D. 

Histon making a change bringing Plumer off on the left sending on Gwen Davis-Jones. O’Dwyer playing the ball to Wayman on the move left side squares it in central for Walker, Banks moving in to close the Newmarket captain down before she can pick her pass. Corbyn drifting inside with the ball from the left playing an angled ball across the pitch into Corbyn on the right she puts another high cross into the near post, Childerley getting her angles right to keep it out. 

  Newmarket winning a corner on their right, Griffin with a fine ball in across the six yard box through bodies falls to Sturgess at the far post stabs her shot narrowly wide. Leyland moving into to block, Wayman’s cross on the left as Corbyn sends the ball on, out for a corner kick. Another delivery to the far post from Griffin, Leyland on Sturgess this time as they both jump for the ball Leyland seeing it away to safety. 

Newmarket’s Abbie Corbyn

 Howard with a strong tackle in the middle looking to get forwards with the ball left channel, Daniels back at her with an equally strong challenge to regain possession for Newmarket. Wayman advancing on the left with the ball for the hosts puts it into the D for Reinhardt, Krueger quickly in to close her down tackling to prevent her unleashing a strike. 

Half-time Newmarket Town Women 0-1 Histon Ladies

  Both sides looking to finish strong as the first half comes to a close. Newmarket heading back to the changing room, Histon seeking out the little spot of shade behind the goal they were defending. Neither side on top for a sustained period Histon becoming a little ragged midway through the half as Newmarket pushed players on but defended well on the whole good chances created, Got themselves out of that hole to open the scoring late in the half holding onto their narrow advantage as Newmarket pressed for a quick reply.

 The result still wide open as we go into the 2nd period things for both to improve on too, Reinhardt and Nicholls both working hard up top to create an opening. Neither side making a change at the start of the 2nd half the sun still blazing high in the sky, Histon bringing Davis-Jones on late in the 1st half as Newmarket get the 2nd half underway. Rolled into Walker she turns it out to Wayman on the left the ball clipped up into Reinhardt central, Leyland winning the header for Histon, the loose ball cleared by Krueger. 

Histon defender, Claire Krueger

  Histon defending the deeper of the two sides, keen to protect Childerley in goal had done a good job so far. O’Dwyer playing the ball on for Corbyn left side looks to travel coming inside, tackled by Davis-Jones. Nicholls receiving the ball out wide on Histon’s right flank driving on squaring it into the top of the area for Davis-Jones getting forwards, Dryland closing her down defending for Newmarket. 

Newmarket midfielder, Abi Gibson

 Krueger winning the ball at the back for Histon hooking it away as Walker attempts to drop it over the top for Reinhardt. Griffin sends the ball down the right flank for Reinhardt to chase, Krueger moving to get across her try and shield the ball out, Reinhardt gets a foot in to knock the ball into the six yard box, but Leyland is there to clear for Histon. O’Dwyer in to defend for Newmarket clearing the ball for a throw as Howard and Banks look to combine coming on down the right. 

  Both sides giving niggly fouls away, a good battle out there, MaCrae looking to get on more for Histon coming right enjoying a lively contest with Dryland. Leyland playing the ball long into the top of the Newmarket area, Sturgess winning the header for the hosts. No advantage played as Davies gets clipped looking to get into the box attacking down the left for Histon the ball loose coming to MaCrae, little room to work with 20 yards out the ball blocked. Histon applying a bit of pressure however with the full backs getting on better to push numbers on. 

 GOAL! Newmarket get the ball on down their right Dryland finding Walker coming out to receive the ball angles it into the box for Corbyn central, is fouled as a defender dives in to try and get the ball the referee pointing to the spot, penalty! Griffin to take it placing the ball on the spot no messing around, drives it low to the keepers left into the back of the net to level the scores 1-1.

Abbi Griffin firing Newmarket level from the penalty spot

Abbi Griffin

 Newmarket back on level terms 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Newmarket’s full backs getting on with the ball too, Dryland on the right attempting to play a diagonal ball into Corbyn as she provides a good run inside from the left, close but can’t quite get hold of it to take it on into the area have a chance on goal. 

 McCrae does well to roll off Dryland on the left channel and turn in behind drive for the area, left of goal, Dryland recovers well getting back at her diving in to tackle even as Daniels has the same idea McCrae unscathed as the ball runs out for a corner kick. A high delivery into the far post knocked out to Leyland at the top of the area, her shot stabbed in blocked the rebound volleyed over, even as Histon make a half hearted appeal for handball.

Holly Dryland and Jess McCrae

  Walker charges down a shot from distance resulting in a corner kick for Histon, Banks to take it curled in from the left, Szary misses her punch however the ball sails out beyond the far post. Newmarket looking to push players on still get up with Reinhardt, Dryland with space to move into puts an angled cross in from deep, Leyland getting her head onto it for Histon. The hosts pressing on the right sweep a ball into the box, Corbyn central looking to get it under control, won’t sit as it instead pops up for O’Dwyer to strike sends it over the bar.

  Walker with a powerful strike from distance 40 yards out rifles the ball past the right post. Newmarket make their first change, with Reinhardt coming off to see Ella Burnley make her first competitive start for the club. Histon too with a change bringing off Howard in the middle to be replaced by Sophie Hopkin. The drinks break called soon after. Play resumes with a crunching 50/50 tackle between banks and Sturgess with the Newmarket defender coming off 2nd best. Up okay after on pitch treatment and keen to get back into the action. 

  Gibson getting hold of the ball 30 yards out driving towards the box for the hosts, runs into Krueger however the Histon defender winning the ball. Dryland taking the ball on for Newmarket right side pushed inside central for Burnley looks to push through the defence get into the box, Krueger getting a foot on the ball to clear. Histon attempt to counter the ball helped on by McCrae into Hopkin left channel, Nicholls ahead of her however Wayman is across to intercept the pass for the hosts.

Newmarket captain, Katie Walker

  Krueger not giving away anything at the back for Histon reading the game well. Dryland on for Griffin right side, Davies cutting out her cross. Histon coming back into the game with McCrae influencing things going forwards puts the ball on down the left flank for Nicholls as the striker races clear her low cross squared into the six yard box scooped up into her gloves by Szary even as Hopkin closes her down. 

The clock ticking down, no telling which way this game might go, certainly both are trying to win it, Dryland comes back to slide in to clear the ball for a corner kick on Hopkin as she is put in the clear on the left. Fired in long beyond the far post Krueger attacking it heads the ball over the crossbar. Newmarket making a double switch bringing off Gibson and Sturgess with Toni Smith and Eden Kirby-Cook coming on. Sees Newmarket making a few adjustments at the back.

 GOAL! closing in on the final 10 minutes Histon get on the attack banks playing the ball on for Hopkin left side sends the ball down the line for Nicholls pulling wide taking it on to the by-line cuts the ball back in across the face of goal, Szary sticking a leg out to try and divert it away only plays it straight to Collins coming in beyond the far post she doesn’t miss her opportunity drives the ball back in at the near post to put Histon back into the lead 1-2. 

Tash Collins on hand at the far post to fire Histon back into the lead

 GOAL! No sooner have Newmarket fallen behind again they have no time to regroup as they concede again a long pass seeing Nicholls beat the offside flag on the right flank, driving for the box has been one on one with Szary on a couple of occasions doesn’t let the keeper get too close this time shoots early lifting the ball over her to loop into the goal beyond to see Histon extend the lead 1-3.

Evie Nicholls breaking clear to fire Histon into a 3-1 lead

 I was in the process of changing the batteries in my camera at this precise moment so didn’t capture the celebrations, sure someone else did. Histon getting into a 2 goal lead late in the game to put themselves in a healthy position to claim the 3 points. Histon with renewed energy getting bodies forwards now, the ball fed inside to Nicholls inside the D, sees it into her feet before prodding it to her left to turn and unleash a low shot, Szary down sharply to save getting her body behind the ball.

Abbi Griffin and Abi Davies

  Banks winning the ball well in the middle of the park for Histon, Newmarket struggling to find any momentum late on the visitors break Collins right on for Nicholls forwards into Hopkin at the near post her shot lacking power stopped by Szary. Newmarket with another double change, Dryland and Griffin off with, Niamh Bridgeman and Reinhardt coming on. Nicholls picking up a knock off too for Histon with Summer Taylor, Plummer back on too for the closing stages.

  Collins moving right with the ball for Histon sending it forwards into Taylor her cut back across the top of the D struck first time by Plummer, sent over. Davis-Jones winning the ball in the middle for Histon pushing forwards, Daniels out well from the back to tackle for Newmarket. Bridgeman putting a diagonal ball into the top of the area from the right for Newmarket looking for Burnley cut out by Davies turned behind for a corner kick. Into the closing moments of the game the corner into the top of the area Reinhardt putting it back out to Bridgeman on the right, her cross blocked for a 2nd corner.

 Played into the top of the area Walker connecting on the half volley the dipping ball straight at the keeper. Histon eating up the clock with a late substitution, Collins brought off to be replaced by Evie MaCulloch. Histon aiming to keep the ball in the corner late on seeing out the game to clinch the 3 points on the opening day of the season.

Full time Newmarket Town Women 1-3 Histon Ladies

 Histon scoring twice late in the 2nd half to secure 3 points on the opening day of the season and get their ERWFL Division One North campaign off to a winning start. Holding a narrow advantage at the break, Newmarket came back well to find an equalising goal from the penalty spot 10 minutes into the 2nd half. Both sides enjoying good spells throughout the game whilst never getting the upper hand creating chances it looked an even contest throughout well fought. Histon dropping off becoming ragged at times responded well however figuring it out to get back on top. Newmarket will be disappointed but know where they can improve the game was there for the taking Histon scoring at timely intervals edging it. Division One North looks to be very interesting already looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season and as is so often the case it’s another hard decision, well sort of. Several performances of note to mention too. Firstly for Newmarket, Sydney Daniels was outstanding at the back putting in a number of crucial tackles, covered the ground well. Both full backs Holly Dryland and Kara Wayman defended well and got forwards too, Wayman in particular with some great runs. Ellie Sturgess was no slouch either won her share of tackles too allowed space used the ball well. Katie Walker’s passing gave Newmarket an extra dynamic in the middle, Emilia Reinhardt worked tirelessly up top. For Histon, Evie Nicholls was lively in attack finding space and making runs all game always available for a pass. Molly Banks with some strong tackles in the middle of the park linked up play well throughout, Jess McCrae got forwards well battling for possession especially 2nd half. Again the Histon defence was strong especially through the middle, captain Laura Leyland reading the game well winning her fair share of the ball, edging it though her defensive partner, Claire Krueger, the pair leaving no room to exploit through the middle, won her tackles well focused throughout, might well be jet legged by now but can be pleased with that performance.

 Good to be back! Had little prep time feared I might be a little rusty coming into this game but the hand writing is still as bad and I have written 615 of these so I didn’t need much warming up. Plenty of exciting games to come started with the ERWFL because it rarely disappoints. Thanks to both clubs for their help today, never taken for granted and always appreciated. The new season has begin.

by Darren Gilham