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Match Report – Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies

Sunday 3rd November

ERWFL League Cup

Another milestone reached today, this Sunday’s game being my 400th match report since I started covering the sport back in 2012, originally as the Supporting Women’s Football blog now Women’s Football East have covered games at all levels across the country and enjoyed every minute of it. Today’s match action comes from the group stage of the ERWFL League Cup, Histon Ladies v Hutton Ladies.

The Division One side usually contest the early round of the league cup in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) with the Premier Division sides entering later on. This season a different format in the early stages, the Division One sides split into a North & South Division this season starting off with 8 in each drawn into 4 groups, 2 from the North & 2 South in each play each other once with the group winners progressing to the knock out stages of the competition with the 12 Premier Division sides. The remaining Division One sides going on to contest for the ERWFL Plate. Histon and Hutton Ladies drawn into Group D along side, King’s Lynn Town Ladies and Leigh Ramblers Ladies. King’s Lynn Town Ladies in pole position to top the group with 2 wins from 2, avoid defeat today away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies in Essex and they will finish top.

A win and a defeat for both Histon and Hutton to date will need Leigh Ramblers to do them a favour if they hope to nick top spot. Histon Ladies come into today’s game in good form with 3 straight wins in league and cup. A 3-2 away victory to Leigh Ramblers getting them off the mark in the League Cup followed by back to back wins in the league to see them climb up to 3rd in the Division One North table. The Cambridgeshire side bringing in several new youngsters to bolster the squad over the close season, 3 in today’s starting line-up, Abby Laughlin, Poppy Kelly & Sydney Graham.

A perfect start to the season for Hutton Ladies, the Essex side topping the ERWFL Division One South table with a 100% record 4 wins from 4. 6 wins in all competitions that record hitting the buffers last time out travelling up to Norfolk to play King’s Lynn in the League Cup defeated for the first time this season the first time they had failed to score in a game too. That aside Hutton are scoring plenty of goals this season averaging over 8 goals a game so far helped in the main by the goals scoring form of striker Vicky Kinsman. Joining Hutton last season scored an incredible 49 goals in 27 appearances. Has 21 already this campaign. One of several experienced players to join last season with the likes of Hayley Piggott and Abigail Fry who have both played higher coming in. The squad bolstered again this season, have been amongst the silverware in recent seasons including back to back wins in the ERWFL Plate two seasons ago.

The Glassworld Stadium the venue for today’s match home to Histon FC and Histon Ladies. The heavy rain due the day before a threat to the match, it just about held out with no fresh rainfall on Sunday the game on. Wet would cut up and make for heavy going is a large pitch offering plenty of width. Plenty of cover too though for supporters a large seated stand over looking the pitch the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Light rain before the match as the sides warmed up, would thankfully fizzle out at kick-off and keep away, remained overcast.

Histon Ladies starting XI- Keeley Robinson, Abby Laughlin, Georgina Huse, Alison Wright, Tessa Shaw, Lauren Martin, Sophie Lanham (C) Sophie Hopkin, Sydney Graham, Siobhan White & Poppy Kelly. Subs – Rebekah Finch, Molly Blair, Casey Miller, Tara Fitzjohn.

Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Kayleigh Franklin, Rianne Dimmock, Kristy Knight, Kelly Roberts, Hannah Page, Abigail Fry (C), Clare Edmonson, Kate Lowen, Lauren Knight & Vicky Kinsman. Subs – Hayley Piggott, Hayley Critchell & Sally Appleton.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Onto the match action, Hutton to kick-off the first half wearing navy blue shirts with red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Histon force Hutton to play it back to their defence the long kick forwards setting Lauren Knight away her ball forwards pushed on looking for Vicky Kinsman making a central run through towards the box intercepted and turned out for a throw. Hutton come on right side off a throw deep Clare Edmonson looks to take the ball on into the Histon box to the byline cuts it back inside the ball cleared at the near post.

Hutton settling quicker getting players forwards to the right another throw in conceded Kate Lowen to fire in the cross cut out by Alison Wright the ball loose top of the area Edmonson after it, so too Lauren Martin lunging in to get her foot on the ball first get it away for Histon. Histon make ground on the right side a throw in Sydney Graham combining well with Abby Laughlin, Graham cutting the ball back down the line to release Laughlin in behind, clipped rides the challenge recovering her footing to take the ball on her cross/shot taking a defection behind, play brought back however for the earlier foul. Siobhan White coming a cross to take it outside the box fired in towards the six yard box taken cleanly by Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover.

Lauren Martin on the ball for Histon Ladies

Glover setting Hutton on their way quickly a good kick up field over half way trapped beautifully at her feet by Edmonson killing the ball, flicks it on for Kinsman ahead of her, Hutton captain Abigail Fry bursting forwards to her right Kinsman rolls the ball into her path 25 yards out strikes it first time the shot over the bar. The resulting goalkick putting the Histon back line in trouble a slippy surface Kinsman latching onto it 30 yards out spins into a shoot left side the ball dipping late on goalkeeper Keeley Robinson right behind it down to stop it grabbing hold at the 2nd attempt. Kinsman showing good strength on the ball getting hold of it and turning to attack the Histon area, a cross in from the left dangerous, no one gambling through the middle.

GOAL! Closing in on 15 minutes played and Hutton take the lead, the goalkick straight to Kinsman, she passes it on to Edmonson ahead of her driving on plays it out to the left the ball crossed into the ox cut out deflected to the top of the area Edmonson there unmarked throws a leg out her first time attempt looping up over the defence and under the cross bar Robinson back on her line throws up a glove but can’t keep it out, 0-1. Edmonson’s first goal for Hutton.

Clare Edmonson opens the scoring for Hutton Ladies

Hutton capitalising on a good start winning the ball in the middle Hannah Page into Kinsman sending Lauren Knight clear in behind on the left down the line looking to get into the area, Wright getting across well to slide in and make the tackle taking the ball away from Knight’s toes. The defender up to play the ball up field doesn’t stick on the middle Kinsman rolled in again 35 yards out wide takes on the strike, on target but straight at Robinson.

Histon’s Alison Wright sliding in to win the ball back

Kate Lowen getting on the ball right side for Hutton drives forwards in behind into the area flashes a cross in, blocked by Wright, back to Lowen for a 2nd go on close to the near post, Robinson forwards down to smother the ball. The ball brought forwards from the back for Hutton played up to Kinsman up to head the ball on finds Lauren Knight out left bringing the ball on uses the outside of her boot to lift a diagonal ball into the area, Fry making a central run, Robinson can safely gather.

Hutton continue to have the lions share of the attack the ball not sticking up top for Histon the midfield having to track back often to help the defence as Hutton get players forwards. Edmonson with a great pass to find Lauren Knight on the left takes the ball on before squaring a cross into the area, Tessa Shaw doing well in central defence to keep in front of Kinsman to make sure she can’t get a touch the defender clearing. Hutton press the ball high keep Histon inside their final third, Page to Lauren Knight on the left crosses early an inviting ball along the six yard box, Kinsman throwing and outstretched leg forwards getting a tough, can only divert the ball wide out the far side.

Hutton striker Vicky Kinsman closely marked by Histon’s Tessa Shaw & Sophie Lanham

Shaw attempting to shield the ball back to her keeper is fouled by Kinsman gets the free kick. Histon get forwards White with the ball over the top on the left running on cuts inside looking for a shooting opportunity top of the area lets fly from 20 yards out her strike over the crossbar. Graham showing great close ball control bringing the ball inside on halfway looks to put it forwards almost succeeds in releasing Poppy Kelly through the middle but for an outstretched leg from Hutton defender Kristy Knight doing enough to take the ball out of Kelly’s path allowing Kelly Roberts to clear.

Abby Laughlin bringing the ball away for Histon Ladies

Signs Histon are starting to get a foothold in the game took a while to settle on the back foot. Captain Sophie Lanham back to clear the ball from her own box for Histon. White away on the left side comes inside for Histon, this time runs into Roberts neutralising the danger. Hutton remain a threat on the counter a throw right into Kinsman holds the ball up well turning to shoot on the angle, coming in near post Robinson sees it late gets a glove onto the ball knocking it behind for the corner.

Histon captain, Sophie Lanham clearing the ball

Hutton make the first change of the match, Lauren Knight coming off for Hayley Critchell. The substitute with an early opportunity to take the ball on left side carrying it towards the area, Laughlin with a superb tackle right on the line to take the ball. Hutton with another change as Sally Appleton enters the game replacing, Edmonson. Kristy Knight with a good tackle at the back to deny Graham as shot as she carries the ball forwards into the area from the right.

Histon build through the middle Graham right inside for Lanham her pass forwards releasing Kelly right takes defenders on cutting back into the box running square of goal. Pushes the ball on for White on the penalty spot she back heels it on as Kelly’s run takes her past her the attacker taking on the shot, Glover saving with her legs. Histon win a free-kick inside the Hutton half players forwards into the box as White sets the ball down knocked down by the defence Kelly intercepts looks to bring under control and turn and shot her attempt blocked spins behind for a corner. Histon ending the first half well.

Sydney Graham looking to play the ball forwards for Histon

White coming left crossing in Kelly running in with a defender shooting, Glover hands up to make the blocking save. Hutton attack late on Kinsman putting the ball on for Critchell left tackled by Laughlin top of the area, the ball skipping up and behind Laughlin losing sight of it Critchell in to lift a cross into the middle, drops far side no one can reach it. Late in the half a throw right fro Histon, Graham receiving firing in a dangerous cross, Franklin getting a touch to take it away from Kelly attacking the far post.

Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Hutton Ladies

Hutton leading the match 1-0 at half-time have been the dominant side making a good start creating opportunities, getting players in behind, several dangerous crosses not finding anyone. Good hold up play and runs from midfield particularly from Fry. Histon took a while to settle starting to come into the match late on creating some good opportunities themselves, trailing by the single goal are far from out of it yet.

A change fro both sides at half-time by the looks of it, Rebekah Finch on for Histon replacing White, Hopkin now over on the left. Hayley Piggott on in defence for Hutton replacing Franklin. The sun doing it’s best to break through setting into the the end of the ground into the faces of the Hutton defence. Histon to get the 2nd half underway. An early chance for Histon coming close to equalising Hopkin off a throw left driving on to the byline a vicious cross put across the face of goal, Glover throwing herself at it palming it on straight to Finch central coming at her quickly tries to adjusted her body get a foot up to meet the ball minimal contact Hutton close in to clear.

GOAL! A golden chance to level the scores at one end Histon are hit on the counter the ball sent long up to Critchell left the defence don’t deal inside the box Critchell retrieving on the byline playing the ball back up to the top of the box Kinsman latching onto it left of the D to shoot place the ball wide of the keeper 0-2.

Histon bring the ball on Graham over half way passing to Lanham making a move on the right wing a cross lifted up into the area near side into Kelly’s path lays it on to Finch ahead of her Kristy Knight going with her run near post successfully defending for Hutton.

GOAL! Histon get a goal back straight away after conceding early in the 2nd half, Hutton looking to get the ball forwards quickly won at the back by Georgina Huse lifted forwards up the left to put Hopkin away into space, rolls it infield to Kelly 20 yards out left of goal head down looks to take on the Hutton defence, pushes right then shifts it left creating space to take on the shot a smash a shot high across the keeper 1-2.

Poppy Kelly central with the goal for Histon

Finch with a shot from 25 yards out for Histon brushes the top of the net on its way over.

GOAL! Hutton with a quickfire reply to score a 3rd goal attack quickly through the middle the ball put on for Fry racing trough left channel, Robinson coming out of her goal to meet her Fry knocking the ball past her on towards left open for the shot, sees Kinsman storming through unmarked inside her unselfish squared the ball into her path the striker with the simple finish to make it 1-3.

Hutton striker, Vicky Kinsman

A busy start to the 2nd half 3 goals scored an open game Histon looking more of a threat scoring but hit for 2 up the other end. Appleton brings Hopkin down on the left outside the box giving Histon the free Kick. Lanham over it fired in low towards the near post a combination of defence and keeper getting it away for Hutton. the visitors break Kinsman on halfway playing it on for Lowen right support from Appleton a high ball into the box dealt with by the Histon defence.

Krissie Glover keeping the ball out for Hutton Ladies

Hutton break miss a great opportunity to go 4-1 ahead as Critchell bombs on left side crossing from a tight angle the ball across the keeper missed by Lowen close in at the far post. Histon come forwards Martin up for Kelly to attack brings the ball on towards the Hutton box, tackled well by Kristy Knight. Hutton are giving away alot of free kicks, Histon so far not making the most of them but it is a concern for Hutton’s bench, Dimmock receiving a talking too by the referee. Lanham on a set-piece right of the centre circle a good delivery in long to the far post Wright the runners catching it first time can’t get the ball down on target.

Hutton Ladies, Kate Lowen with Histon’s Georgina Huse

Histon winning a corner left side in towards the near post defended, Kelly putting the ball back to the corner taker crossed in again this time Fry and Page combine top of the box to get the threat away for Hutton. Histon do well to press the ball high regain possession Lanham lifting the ball on almost finding Wright stealing in behind. Histon make a change with 23 minutes left to play, Hopkin coming off on comes summer signing Molly Blair.

Kinsman getting hold of the ball for Hutton left side 30 yards out drives on towards the box a powerful run, tackled by Wright the ball pushed wide to the left gathered by the advancing Critchell puts it back to Kinsman backing away from the area 25 yards out puts her foot throw the ball blasts a shot towards goal, Robinson with a full stretch dive to her left lands to hear the ball thump into the boarding behind goal the shot narrowly wide.

Chances falling to both side prepared to shoot outside the box, Kelly smashes a shot from all of 30 yards out central that stings the keepers gloves rebounding out to the right picked up by Graham racing forwards she blasts over on the angle. Hutton make a change Lauren Knight returning to the game replacing Roberts. Another silly free kick given away by Hutton left side a chance for Histon to bring players up from the back Lanham on the ball sent in towards the top of the area a Hutton head on the ball looping high into the air and towards goal, Glover eyes on nothing else back on her line with the confident take.

Histon Ladies, Alison Wright

Graham brought down inside the Hutton half, the free kick met by Finch heading it in top of the area off target Glover coming across to claim. Histon capitalise from a bit of ping ball on halfway the ball deflected in behind for Graham right side to bring on plays in early for Kelly racing on through the middle shoots first time as it runs across her path a poor connection lacking power on target but Glover can shuffled across her goal to gather at the right post.

Lowen in an advanced position on the right for Hutton shifts the ball left the right before shooting from outside the area the ball held cleanly by Robinson in goal. Histon bring off Lanham with around 10 minutes left to play bringing on another summer signing Casey Miller. Hutton come on right side Lowen sending a cross into the box just behind the run of Lauren Knight central the ball cleared back out to the right Appleton up the pitch shooting across goal, Lauren Knight sliding in far post but Robinson down bravely has the ball safely into her body. Piggott fouls Kelly outside the area Wright on the free kick 20 yards out goes for goal on target by straight at the keeper.

GOAL! 7 minutes of normal play left the game stretched now players getting tired Hutton extend their lead making the game safe. Lauren Knight away on the left side putting in a dangerous cross into the six yard box a defender there first ahead of Kinsman throws a leg up to meet the ball is an unfortunate own goal the ball turned into the back of the net 1-4.

Changes for both sides now, Edmonson and Franklin back on for Hutton replacing, Lowen and Kristy Knight. Tara Fitzjohn on for Laughlin for Histon. Kinsman on the attack central for Hutton lays it on for Lauren Knight the ball cut out inside the box comes out to Appleton up on the right drives a shot in towards goal, Robinson getting her gloves up to save the ball cleared only to come straight back in headed away by Shaw.

Hutton win a rare free kick of their own outside the Histon box on the right Piggott up to take goes for goal a well struck effort that flies wide past the par post. Blair flicking the ball on Finch controlling and turning to shoot on the volley top of the area straight into the keepers gloves.

GOAL! Into the closing minutes and Kinsman central played in battles her way through in towards the top of the area Wright on her shoulder to beat the defender and get a shot away past the advancing keeper to complete her hat-trick 1-5.

Full time Histon Ladies 1-5 Hutton Ladies

Hutton with two late goals win the match 5-1, a better 2nd half from Histon came out strong at the start of the 2nd half only to concede a 2nd goal. Kelly with a superb strike to bring it back to 2-1 Hutton were quick to restore their two goal lead. Chances for both as the match opened up Hutton giving away free kicks Histon not able to find a 2nd goal apply some pressure Hutton going on to win comfortably. All for nothing in the end as they finish 2nd in Group D behind King’s Lynn Town Ladies who made it 3 wins from 3 away to Leigh Ramblers to advance to the knockout stages. Both Hutton and Histon who reached the final of the competition last season will fancy their chances in the Plate.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Notable performances from Poppy Kelly in attack and Alison Wright in defence for Histon. For Hutton it’s a close call in the finish, excellent work in midfield from captain Abigail Fry with several fantastic runs forwards during the match. Have chosen Vicky Kinsman scoring a hat-trick of course but more than that her presence up front general hold up play and strength on the ball, drawing defenders towards her giving space for others to exploit.

400 match reports written and the thing I love about doing them is no two are the same get a buzz every time. The content comes solely from the players out there on the pitch and I merely try and put it into words. Plenty more left in the tank, need those team details as always and much appreciated… on to the next one.

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v AFC Basildon Women

Sunday 27th October

Women’s FA Cup

A trip to Ely City FC this Sunday to watch another match from the Women’s FA Cup the competition reaching 3rd Round Qualifying 24 ties taking place across the country with the winning sides advancing to the 1st Round Proper. Today’s game an all FAWNL South East Division One clash with Cambridge City Ladies hosting AFC Basildon Women.

Heavy rainfall once again on the Saturday leading up to the game, hit a number of fixtures more on the other side of the country, the East fairing better, a bright start to Sunday the game on. The Dencom Stadium home of Ely City FC the new home for Cambridge City Ladies this season as they reach their highest level since reestablishing a women’s side. Playing in the FAWNL South East Division One have enjoyed a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid moving up from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and through the ERWFL in just 4 seasons. Collecting numerous other silverware along the way most recently winning the Hunts FA 125 year Premier Cup beating St Ives Town Ladies in midweek. Have a total of 3 women’s sides this season with their Development side promoted the the ERWFL this season off the back of a trophy laden season and a new ‘A’ side competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership.

History made last season too as Cambridge City reached the 1st Round Proper of the Women’s FA Cup for the 1st time in their history. Promoted to the FAWNL this season has been a tough start to life at this level just 5 points on the board to date from 7 played entered the Women’s FA Cup in 2nd Round Qualifying a home time against giant killers St Albans Ladies the Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side knocking ERWFL side Histon Ladies out in the previous round gave Cambridge City a scare going 2-0, the hosts fighting back to pull level the game all square at 3-3 after 90 minutes Cambridge getting over the line in injury time.

A new chapter of sorts in the history of Basildon, now AFC Basildon Women the Essex club like Cambridge City enjoyed a rapid rise through the woman’s football pyramid and collected a fair amount of silverware themselves as C&K Basildon Ladies, that ear coming to an end two seasons ago. Uncertain times for a while the club coming close to folding have forged a new beginning. Losing most of the 1st team the clubs Development side was more or less thrown in at the deep end to try and compete in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division a tough campaign finishing bottom the young squad learning alot about itself have grown.

A new beginning in FAWNL South East Division One a strong social media presence, Basildon have recruited well bringing in the likes of Poppy Binding from Harlow Town Ladies and Kelly Wealthall who has experience with West Ham United Women amongst others is a very young squad still learning it’s game most still teenagers. Comfortable in mid-table results a mixed bag early on showing great form so far this month winning 3 on the bounce in league & cup in October. A 4-0 away win against Cambridge City in the league back in September.

The heavy rain the day before threatening the game, a dry start to Sunday sun getting onto the pitch the game on. The pitch with a good covering of grass, very wet sticky underfoot. A large playing surface overlooked by a high seated stand above the changing rooms. The bar beside open along wit the kitchen serving hot drinks. New new cinema and restaurant park leading into the stadium that is one of a number of sporting venues close by. A warm day in the end the sun having a bit of heat in it could actually take the coat off… won’t be saying that for much longer. The clocks going back the night before it would be setting during the game a factor in the 2nd half especially.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Ceri Flye, Amy Reed, Robyn Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Beatrice Fitzsimons, Laura Mills & Carla Penny. Subs – Lauren Tomlinson & Karly Tolentino.

AFC Basildon Women starting XI – Charlotte Bolland, Sophie Rhodes (C) Alex Bailess, Grace Gillard, Mollie Debell, Gemma Abela, Poppy Binding, Cerys Adams, Courtney Clarke, Kelly Wealthall & Hollie Turner. Subs – Sophie Spencer-Webb, Maddie Thomas, Amy Jacobs & Sarah Wilson.

Cambridge without strikers Megan Tonks and Shannon Shaw, in to the side comes Carla Penny who has enjoyed a great start to the season with the Development side netting 10 goals in 7 appearances. Basildon to get the cup tie underway, wearing an all light blue kit. Cambridge wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Basildon lively from the off the ball long from the back up to Kelly Wealthall moving left tackled the ball out for a throw taken quickly the cross lifted up into the area, goalkeeper Dominika Szary catching comfortably for Cambridge.

Basildon getting players forwards with purpose a driven pass up the left with Courtney Clarke making a good run a well timed tackle from full back Ceri Flye. The visitors press the ball high, Hollie Turner almost away Szary out to the edge of her area to clear.

GOAL! A bright start from Basildon they are hit on the counter Cambridge working the ball forwards in an excellent move to take the lead. The ball cleared from the back into Carla Penny back inside her half on the right helps in on down the wing for Charlotte Gillies racing past her she plays it early central for Laura Mills running clear central bearing down on the area, opens up her body to put her shot past goalkeeper Charlie Bolland coming out to close her down to place the ball into the goal beyond 1-0. 3 minutes played.

Laura Mills with the opening goal for Cambridge City Ladies

Basildon are straight on the attack after the Cambridge defence pressed giving the ball away on right intercepted by Turner she flashes a ball across the face of goal, Wealthall racing in far post can’t quite get there.

GOAL! Doesn’t take long for Basildon to get back on level terms, players swarming forwards have Cambridge pushed back inside their area, the midfielders up supporting the attacking three, the ball is cleared straight to Poppy Binding 20 yards out right side of the D a clinical finish the ball driven hard and low to nestle in the back of the net 1-1 Basildon equalising within 2 minutes.

Poppy Binding puts Basildon level straight away

Basildon come on in attack Clarke a threat on the left side of attack looking to get in behind. The Cambridge defence making hard work of clearing the ball a rebound put straight into Turner she races free left side looks to play in Wealthall, Cambridge captain Becca Fay managing to get her foot of the ball first get it back to the keeper the clearance miscued, Basildon close down, Cambridge scramble it away. Basildon attack right side a low cross into the six yard box Fay managing to cut out Szary down to smother the ball.

GOAL! The game turned completely around in the space of 4 minutes Basildon coming from behind to take the lead the visitors pushing forwards numbers on the left the Cambridge defence drawn out a low cross driven in on the angle, the ball turned in at close range by Binding for her 2nd of the game at the far post 1-2.

GOAL! All action at the start of the first half no sooner have Basildon taken the lead then they score another the ball won in the middle of the park put forwards into the box right side with Turner making the run into her path under challenge from Fay six yards out gets a shot away going to ground sending it past Szary to score. 1-3. Less than 10 minutes played.

Holly Turner with the goal to put Basildon 3-1 up

Cambridge shell shocked look to get forwards play broken up in the middle by Cerys Adams Basildon quickly turn the attack around, Clarke, Turner and Wealthall all on the move, Wealthall central sees the ball fired into her, Fay getting back on hr tackling well before she can get a shot away. Binding linking with Adams plays a cross in for Wealthall positioned central inside the area, drags her shot wide of goal. Fluid play from Basildon passing quickly at the start of the game.

Courtney Clarke receiving the ball for Basildon

Mills tries a long one over the top for Penny, almost succeeds through behind the defence a good starting position from Bolland sees her out to wrap her gloves around the ball first. Gillies latches onto a ball on the right takes it on towards the area shooting on the angle looking to put it across the keeper, Bolland down well to make the save. Cambridge getting a little joy on the right with Gillies pace winning a throw the ball lifting into the area a firm header clear by Basildon defender Mollie Debell. Penny moving out to the left given the ball closes in on the area firing a cross in cut out and cleared by Grace Gillard. Cambridge recovering a little getting forwards Penny again unleashing a shot from 25 yards out safely held by Bolland.

Carla Penny looking to get away from Basildon’s Grace Gillard

Basildon remain a threat getting players forwards at will the front three pressing the Cambridge back line. Clarke central almost plays in Wealthall, then Turner, Robyn Phillips and Flye defending on both occasions for Cambridge the rebound coming to Clarke for a 3rd time she has a go for goal herself sending her 20 yard effort over the bar. Cambridge come left Beatrice Fitzsimons on for Penny played inside for Sofia Castiglione to strike from distance, Gillard blocking for Basildon.

GOAL! Less than 20 minutes played and another goal goes in as Cambridge pull a goal back, good work on the right from Gillies to win the ball managing to stay on her feet runs on into the box the angle closing as she bears down on the near post gets a shot away, Bolland looks to have it covered gloves down to take the ball… to her horror though it slips through her fingers and behind her into the back of the net 2-3.

Cambridge City Ladies, Charlotte Gillies

Binding wriggling free on the right with the ball in behind whips a high cross into the six yard box dropped by Szary as she rises near post, no one there on the follow up the keeper able to grab it. Clarke strong to win the ball on the left wing gets in behind coming inside into the cross looking up to cross, Phillips sliding in well to get her foot on the ball take it away from the attacker. Strength to shown by Turner as she brings the ball down off a throw in on the left top of the area turns inside before sending a cross/shot wide across the face of goal.

Cambridge’s Robyn Phillips sliding in to stop Basildon’s Courtney Clarke

Gillard at the back winning it for Basildon showing a great range of passes to put the ball up for the attacks twice getting Clarke away to take the ball on left side. A dangerous ball crossed in for Turner and Wealthall, Cambridge defence not making things easy for themselves as their clearances can only find a blue shirt. The pitch slick not easy to play on heavy with moisture. Turner getting the wrong side of Fay as Adams puts the ball on through the middle shoots from the top of the area beating the advancing Szary her effort running wide.

GOAL! Almost half an hour played at a furious pace and Basildon restore their 2 goal lead. Binding completing her hat-trick. Turner setting her up strong again shoulder to shoulder with Phillips left side into the box as she is fed the ball from midfield closing in on the byline puts a cross in along the face of goal, Binding at the far post a yard out, shows a cool head composure as players close her down to make sure the ball crosses the line 2-4.

Flye defends for Cambridge as she is outnumbered on the left by Wealthall and Turner the latter managing to get a cross in as Wealthall is dispossessed her cross cleared by Fay. Cambridge build from the back a good crossfield pass picking out Gillies clear on the right chasing on towards the area Mills available for the cross on the penalty spot the ball behind her lays it back towards Hannah Bodily to shot closed down the ball squared to her right for Castiglione to hit on the half volley sends her strike over.

Cambridge’s Sofia Castiglione

Basildon win a corner on the left a dangerous ball put into the six yard box a glancing header takes it wide out to the opposite side a throw won on the right Basildon keep players forwards. Between them top of the area Binding and Adams send the ball on central Alex Bailess latching onto it 30 yards out smashes a shot wide of goal. Conditions slippy, Fay with a good recovering tackle central as Wealthall almost spins in behind her. Phillips with a pass back for the keeper to clear as Turner looks to out muscle her inside the box. Cambridge get the ball forwards Bodily into Penny up top seeing the ball into her body spins to put Gillies away on the right her cross unfortunate to land on the roof of the net.

Turner blasts a shot wide from 25 yards out. Gemma Abela attempts to play Wealthall in through the middle, Phillips with a leg out making a vital interception for Cambridge. The hosts build through the middle Mills combining with Gillies to put the ball on for Penny central, Bolland quick to the edge of her box to slide in claim the ball. Castiglione bringing the ball on for Cambridge late in the first half releases Gillies on the right shooting from the angle is straight into the keeper midriff.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 2-4 AFC Basildon Women

An all action first half comes to an end, glad too so I can have a rest my own fault I suppose for writing everything down but it also conveys the temp of the match a fast paced start 4 goals inside the opening 10 minutes. Basildon making a great start Cambridge though carving them open to take the lead. Straight back to level the Essex side racing into a 3-1 lead. The action never let up. Cambridge on he rack defensively Basildon putting them under pressure closing the ball down high up the pitch clearances rushed keeping the hosts on the back foot for long spells. Came back well to get it back to 3-2 Basildon creating opportunities restoring a 2 goal lead before half-time. A huge as to keep that pace up for the whole game. Cambridge you feel need the next goal if they are to get back into the game.

Basildon make a change at half-time Clarke looks to have taken a knock a threat on the left for the visitors 1st half is replaced by Amy Jacobs making her first appearance for the 1st team fresh from scoring a hat-trick for the Development side in their 3-1 win over Billericay Town Ladies Reserves in the County Cup last weekend. The sun sitting lower in the sky facing the goal Cambridge are defending 2nd half. Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway.

The hosts winning an early corner put into the box from the right the ball headed clear back out to the taker a second cross put in central in front of goal, Mills close on Bolland the keeper holding confidently under pressure. Debell bringing the ball on from the back for Basildon plays it to the right for Binding allowed to go on with the ball crossed in the clearance falling straight to Adams racing in central 25 yards out doesn’t catch it cleanly no power as it runs wide.

Hannah Bodily playing the ball forwards for Cambridge

Gillies remains a good outlet for the ball on the right as Cambridge look to get forwards another superb crossfield pass seeing her race away shoots on the diagonal, Bolland drifting across to cover her near post getting her gloves up to palm the ball down into the ground and claim on the bounce. Szary up the other end called into action down low back on her line to save as Abela gets a shot away from the top of the area right off a throw in. Good work from Turner inside the area on the left close on goal puts across goal deflected behind wide at the far post for a corner kick.

GOAL! Basildon extend their lead early in the 2nd half 52 minutes on the clock the corner played into a crowded six yard box, Wealthall central with the stooping header driving the ball in from close range 2-5.

Kelly Wealthall battling with Cambridge’s Laura Mills to win the ball.

A blow for Cambridge they get on the attack looking for an immediate response Fitzsimons clever to get away on the left reaching the top of the area plays the ball long across the box with Gillies on the gallop right side looks to strike the ball on the bounce, skips up off the pitch coming into her as she puts her foot through it sending it up over the bar. Jacobs carrying the ball on left side slips Turner in to attack the area, frustrated complains she is held as Szary comes to smother the ball. Cambridge get a corner as they attack right side the ball cleared dropping towards Castiglione 25 yards out central takes on the first time strike, swerving through the air moves away wide of goal.

Beatrice Fitzsimons playing the ball for Cambridge City Ladies

Cambridge make a double change bringing off Penny and Phillips for Karly Tolentino and Lauren Tomlinson. Basildon make a change too bringing off Debell for Maddie Thomas. Castiglione plays the ball on for Fitzsimons getting away on the left her cross in close to the byline won by Gillard coming across to defend the near post. Th game more open in the 2nd period the tempo slowing a heavy pitch sapping energy. Basildon win a corner left side Cambridge clear Gillies taking it on right side up to Tolentino she crosses early, Bolland taking it high at her near post.

Cerys Adams on the ball for Basildon

Abela threads a pass through the middle looking to put Turner away as she spins in behind, Fay reading in lunging to intercept the ball. Hands across foreheads everywhere to see against the setting sun a clash of heads seeing a pause in play. Both players up and okay Basildon get on the offensive Turner strong on the left shooting towards goal with the outside of her boot, Szary claiming well at her near post despite Wealthall closing her down. Basildon look a threat from set-pieces having already scored from one corner come close again as a ball from the right is played long to the far post a free header fired over.

GOAL! Just as I write that Basildon get a 6th goal from another corner, won on the left a fantastic ball in Basildon packing the box, Turner rising highest to head the ball from inside the six yard box her effort smashing against the bar falling straight to Wealthall to send across the line and score her 2nd of the match 2-6.

The game entering the final 15 minutes Basildon leading comfortably. Cambridge get forwards Gillies running down the right winning a corner. Wealthall back to defend clearing at the near post. Tomlinson defending well up the other end for Cambridge as Turner looks to peel away into the right channel, prevents her getting a shot away top of the area. The substitutes combine through the middle for Basildon Thomas bringing the ball on central on for Jacobs shoulder to shoulder with Tomlinson forced right manages to get a shot away across the keeper Szary moving to cover the angle adjusting fantastically to throw herself the other way and get a hand in the path of the ball to save.

Cambridge get up the pitch a corner won on the right taken short up the line to Flye, lays it infield for Fay to blast towards goal 20 yards out, on target blocked at the near post by Turner. Basildon make a third change , Binding coming off on comes Sophie Spencer-Webb. The game entering the final 10 minutes. Tomlinson strong to win the ball left side gets forwards in attack sends a dangerous cross into the six yard box, Bolland coming for it able to grab before Tolentino can latch onto it.

GOAL! Turner surging forwards with the ball a marauding run is brought down around 25 yards from goal right side, referee Stacey Fullicks awarding the free kick. Abela over it the sun at her back low in the sky. A brilliant strike sending the ball up to dip under the crossbar 2-7.

Gemma Abela scoring from a fantastic free kick to make it 7 for Basildon.

Mills picks the ball up 30 yards from goal left of the area head down drives forwards looking for a way through the Basildon defence Bailess closing her down to win it back for the visitors.

Basildon’s Alex Bailess

GOAL! Mills tenacity on the ball sees Cambridge get a goal late in the game carrying on forwards from midfield left side fires it through for Tolentino peeling away on the wing in behind shoots early on the angle to put the ball past the keeper and score 3-7.

Bodily fouled in the middle the advantage played as Tolentino gets hold of it on the left brought down outside the area Cambridge have the free kick. Castiglione over the ball fired in low Basildon clear falls straight to Flye shoots from distance central lacking pace off target Bolland able to move across her goal to claim. Cambridge press late on Tolentino right swinging in a cross close to the near post Bolland spills it, Rhodes close by heading it behind to concede a corner one last chance for Cambridge to pull a goal back Castiglione shoots over.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 3-7 AFC Basildon Women

Basildon advance to the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup beating Cambridge 7-3. Overall a convincing win a strong performance particularly in attack getting forwards quickly and with intent putting the Cambridge back line under pressure forcing errors. Coming back from an early set back going a goal down, to lead 3-1 with just 10 minutes played. Cambridge on the back foot responding well to get it back to 3-2 Basildon restoring their 2 goal lead in a fast paced 1st half. The 2nd somewhat slower but on top with an early goal scored 3 from set-pieces to lead 7-2. Cambridge pulling a goal back late on can have little complaints not at it defensively today. Despite that some fantastically well worked goals clinical when given the chance. Basildon full of confidence putting in a strong performance.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. For Cambridge Charlotte Gillies with a good game wide right a threat getting forwards offering runs the whole match. A good all round team performance from Basildon today, Poppy Binding scoring a hat-trick. Strong going forwards with pace and purpose the front three in particular. Courtney Clarke a threat on the left first half. Kelly Wealthall in attack edging it for me Holly Turner strong with the ball at her feet good movement on and off the ball.

Plenty of action to cover plenty to type up and that tends to be set by the tempo of the game itself. An enjoyable game to watch a fast paced first half settle down a little in the 2nd some great goals scored. My thanks to both sides for the team details always appreciated. The draw for the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup to be make live on Talksport radio at around 6:15pm this Monday.

Match Report – Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies

Sunday 20th October

Norfolk Women’s League Cup

County Cup football this weekend on Women’s Football East with the Norfolk Women’s competition getting underway this Sunday. A trip to Clipbush Park to watch Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies meeting in the 1st Round.

Last season’s final played in front of a record crowd at Norwich City FC’s Carrow Road ground, Wymondham Town Ladies beating King’s Lynn Town Ladies to lift the county cup for the 2nd successive season.

Today’s clash between two sides promoted to Division One this season. Fakenham Town Ladies finishing runners-up in Division Two last season bouncing straight back up following relegation the previous season. Tavern finishing 4th in Division Two going up due to an influx of new sides joining the league this season one of a total of six sides moving up to the top division to ensure an equal distribution of teams.

Fakenham bringing in several new faces over the summer to bolster their squad as they look to consolidate and push on in the top division. Players needing time to settle and gel a heavy loss on the opening day have bounced back since winning two of their last 3 league matches. Started last season with a 4-0 home win against Tavern, the aggregate score 5-5 though with Tavern finishing the season well and scoring plenty of goals winning 5-1.

An excellent start to the new season for Tavern Ladies, the Dereham based side playing in Division One for the first time. A 100% winning start with 4 wins from 4 are one of three sides to have made a perfect start sharing the lead with Bungay Town Ladies and defending champions Thorpe United Ladies who they beat in last years League Cup to reach the final itself. Scored plenty of goals during that campaign most notably Atlanta Griffith and Katie Hart-Copsey scoring 74 goals between them, Hart-Copsey one of two players in the East of England last season to surpass 50 goals. Lucy Kean leading the goal scoring so far this season with 6 goals.

Clipbush Park the venue for today’s match the bar open serving hot and cold drinks leading out onto the pitch itself. A large pitch offering plenty of width a test for any teams fitness. A small seated stand on the opposite side of the pitch, covered areas behind both goals. An overcast day dark clouds around and unfortunately some light rain as the teams walked out onto the pitch.

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Jemma Riches, Lauren Crundwell, Maddie Smith, Sian Sands (C), Celemence Anhour, Vicki Lubbock, Tash Patten, Holly Davies, Megan Spurrell & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Rosie Smith

Tavern Ladies starting XI – Zoe Gibbons (C), Emily Fusco, Roxy Bailey, Millie Bell, Cody Barnes, Nicole Costin, Atlanta Griffith, Meganne Smith, Katie Hart-Copsey, Sophie Fuller & Lucy Lean. Subs – Danni Lee & Nat Merry.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s the hosts Fakenham to kick-off the first half wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. Tavern lined up opposite in an all blue kit with white trim. The visitors quick to close straight from the off the ball closed down in midfield knocked out of play for a series of throws on the left.

Fakenham defender Maddie Smith putting in the tackle

Fakenham looking to make ground on the flank, Tavern regain possession and counter Atlanta Griffith central with the long pass to release Meganne Smith away on the left she plays the ball into the middle for Sophie Fuller 30 yards out she flicks it on through the middle for Lucy Kean getting in between the Fakenham centre backs bearing down on the box, goalkeeper Chloe Easter has to come goes to ground looking to block Kean’s run the attacker taking the ball to her right past her and shoot at the open goal beyond, an early let off for Fakenham as the ball runs wide of the post.

Fakenham attack on the left can’t make any head way in behind the Tavern back line are awarded a free-kick wide on the left players forwards as Maddie Smith prepares to launch the ball forwards towards the area a good delivery near post Sophie Lubbock with a well timed run can’t quite get on the end of it as it runs safely through to Tavern goalkeeper, Zoe Gibbons. Tavern come left a throw in won high dropped into Griffith she spins to play the ball into the box, headed clear by Fakenham captain Sian Sands.

Holly Davies plays the ball forwards as Fakenham bring the ball out for the back picking out Megan Spurrell breaking away on the right wing moving forwards Tavern get players across quickly three conversing to crowd Spurrell off the ball. Emily Fusco at right back for Tavern winning the ball brings it forwards aiming to release Katie Hart-Copsey on the wing, Sands with a timely interception to prevent her getting away. Tavern getting forwards well in numbers Fusco up field as Nicole Costin spreads play in the middle out to the right on for Hart-Copsey, slips on the wet surface as she goes to cross allowing Sands to get across to clear the danger for Fakenham.

Megan Spurrell bringing the ball on for Fakenham Town Ladies

Griffith showing great movement off the ball early on getting free on the left the ball put into her path she clips it inside for Fuller central, under challenge as she unleashes a shot form all of 30 yards the pace taken out of the ball runs safely through into the box for Easter to collect. Tavern get high on the left a throw won in the corner put into Kean back to the box close to the byline hooks the ball up and beyond her into the ball dropping central inside the six yards box, Fuller goes to attack it, Fakenham scramble clear, gathered by Meganne Smith wide of the area strikes the shot back in flies wide across goal.

GOAL! The early pressure Tavern have applied seeing them open the scoring inside the opening 15 minutes closing the Fakenham defence down for the ball in front of their area snapping into the challenge it finds it’s way across to the right Hart-Copsey free putting her foot through the ball sending her shot racing past the keeper and in from 18 yards 0-1.

Katie Hart-Copsey with the opening goal of the game for Tavern Ladies

Fakenham straight on the attack from the restart Vicki Lubbock driving forwards from midfield winning a throw on the right. Put into the box the clearance straight to Tash Patten her cross fired in striking Costin somewhat painfully deflected behind for the first corner of the game. The ball lifted into the six yard box cleared by Cody Barnes, Tavern looking to break, Maddie Smith preventing them from doing so.

Holly Davies getting hold of the ball for Fakenham Town Ladies

Patten getting in close to charge down Fuller as she goes to shoot from the top of the area, the rebound fired in towards goal from distance, not troubling Easter. Tavern burst forwards Griffith taking the ball on sending it on to Fuller a flowing move she helps it on over the top for Kean to chase after, too much on the ball allowing Easter to come and claim first. Fakenham make a change, Lauren Crundwell off for Rosie Smith in defence. Maddie Smith wins the race as Fuller plays the ball in behind for Kean to go after.

Tavern Ladies, Roxy Bailey

A few strong challenges coming in a physical contest Tavern using it to their advantage, Griffith getting about in midfield well supported by Costin, the latter winning the ball on for Fuller, Griffith running beyond her to the left the pass into her feet, Maddie Smith sliding in to tackle and regain possession for Fakenham. Bringing the ball on through the middle Clemence Anhour forwards Sophie Lubbock n attack heading it down to Davies on the left she looks to drive in behind, Fusco tackling for Tavern.

GOAL! Fakenham level the scores get players forwards as Spurrell battles for possession on the left with Barnes, the defender lunging in to take the ball away from the attack gifting it to Vicki Lubbock who drives into the space opened up by Spurrell on the right 25 yards out on the angle strikes the ball well the ball coming in at pace rising to drop beyond the keeper into the back of the net 1-1.

Fakenham Town Ladies, Vicki Lubbock

Half an hour gone Maddie Smith being kept busy by Kean defending against her at the top of the area as Tavern break forwards with intent Costin winning it in the middle. Griffith coming left squaring the ball inside for Costin 35 yards out forwards for Fuller, Sands stepping out of the Fakenham defence nips in to make the challenge. Kean gets in behind central as the ball is put over the top closing in on the box Easter coming to close her down the attacker manages to get the ball past her before they come together, no pace on the ball however off target as the Fakenham defence get back to clear.

GOAL! Tavern are soon back in front, attacking Fuller on the ball cutting inside from the right outside the box brought down a free-kick awarded. Fuller herself to take the set-piece in a dangerous position. The ball hit well rising to clear the ball and over the keeper to creep in under the bar 1-2.

Sophie Fuller scoring from the free-kick to restore Tavern’s lead

Fakenham come right win a corner kick. Sands to take a good delivery in near side Vicki Lubbock with a clever run to get in front of her marker puts her head on the ball her attempt wide of the post. Tavern play the ball on for Hart-Copsey getting free on the right sends a cross in along the six yard box, Maddie Smith getting in front of Kean at the near post to head clear. Fuller shooting from distance 20 yards out right of the D her effort stinging Easters gloves as she palms it down cleared before Kean can pounce.

GOAL! Tavern extend their lead, attacking down the right Hart-Copsey getting deep to the by line playing a pacy cross in towards the near post Easter their gets her gloves to the ball but doesn’t stick, the ball dropping to the ground Kean is coming in on the follow up on top of her getting her toe to the ball first to prod it past her into the goal beyond 1-3.

Lucy Kean with her eyes on the ball scores the goal to put Tavern 3-1 ahead

10 minutes left to play in the first period, Fakenham play the ball on through the middle into Sophie Lubbock she drives on into the Tavern box, Millie Bell in to make the tackle the ball out for a throw. Jemma Riches getting up the field for Fakenham from defence as the hosts mount an attack the ball squared into Vicki Lubbock top of the box right of the D she plays it forwards for twin sister Sophie making the near post run clear to shot a rising strike Gibbons across to cover the angle making the save pushing the ball behind for the corner kick.

Fakenham Town Ladies, Celemence Anhour

This is where the note taking skills get put to the test, Fakenham up to attack the corner on the right Sands delivering towards the near post Vicki Lubbock coming to attack it, defended put back out to the right for Sands to cross in again dropping central into the six yard box missed, bouncing up at the far post an amber shirt rising to head the ball goalwards the ball striking the crossbar back down into a congested box a scramble ensures, Gibbons getting down to smother the ball.

Tavern continue to attack strongly getting forwards well whilst keeping it tight and organised at the ball. Fakenham finding it tough to break them down. Spurrell looking the most likely on the right a strong run on the ball getting in behind support from Sophie Lubbock struck low on the angle the ball taking a deflection on it’s way through taking it behind for the corner. Vicki Lubbock making some good runs to make herself available for the corner deliveries Tavern not picking her up once again as she moves towards the ball near side turns and sends a shot from 8 yards out over the bar.

Vicki Lubbock controlling the ball for Fakenham looking to play Megan Spurrell in on the wing

Good combination play between central midfielders Anhour and Vicki Lubbock through the middle for Fakenham make ground before Lubbock is stopped by Griffith top of her area for Tavern. Patten on the left getting in beyond for Fakenham to the byline skips pass a defensive challenge going on to cross the ball into the six yard box, Bell cutting it out for Tavern.

Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 1-3 Tavern Ladies

An entertaining first half played at a good pace, Tavern leading 3-1 having the better of the play creating more opportunities scoring early in the game, organised at the back getting forwards with pace closing down well physical. Fakenham creating chances themselves although not getting in behind the Tavern defence tough to break down. Getting it back to 1-1 Tavern coming back with a well taken free-kick gifted a 2nd goal to hold a two goal lead. Fakenham coming close to pulling a goal back on a couple of occasions hitting the bar with one. All to play for 2nd half.

Tavern to get the 2nd half underway. Fakenham with a change at the start of the half, Crundwell back on for Patten. Fakenham quick to close the ball down get it on down the right for Spurrell to attack winning a throw in, defended as Sophie Lubbock seeing the ball into her feet looks to turn and take the ball into the box. Fakenham lively at the start of the 2nd half Vicki Lubbock receiving of another throw right side top of the area driving inside to the byline looking to cross, Bailey preventing her from doing do lays it back outside to Riches 20 yards out a cross driven in low racing wide near side.

Sophie Lubbock intercepting a poor goalkick top of the box goes to shoot charged down the effort loops up high into the air and drops wide of the Tavern goal for a corner. The delivery in close to the near post not attacked Tavern able to clear. Fakenham continue their early attacking 2nd half Sophie Lubbock moving wide right has Spurrell behind her Costin back to defend outside her box for Tavern.

Nicole Costin playing the ball on for Tavern Ladies

Tavern break the ball taken to the byline by Kean cut back towards the top of the area for Hart-Copsey, Vicki Lubbock back on her defending for Fakenham before she can get a shot away. Hart-Copsey over on the right a ball crossed into the box headed clear by Sands, up to Anhour in the middle forwards for Davies to attack central running on with the ball but no way through the Tavern defence.

GOAL! Having ridden out a strong spell from Fakenham at the start of the 2nd half Tavern extend their lead with 55 minutes played. The ball won back inside the Fakenham half on the left passed central into Griffith all of 30 yards out lets the ball run across her before striking it a good connection the ball flying in towards goal with power past the keeper before she can react and in 1-4.

Tavern Ladies, Atlanta Griffith

Fakenham are getting a little frustrated in the final third good build up play the final ball won’t come more often than not collected by a blue shirt. Fakenham bring Crundwell off on the left side Patten back on. From a throw on the right Vicki Lubbock looks to drive on with the ball at her feet tries to pick out sister Sophie ahead of her in the box, Bell intercepting for Tavern. The visitors make their first change of the game, Danni Lee on for Meganne Smith goes into the defence.

Play stretched now Fakenham taking more risks as they attempt to pull a goal back Kean sending the ball on for Hart-Copsey to run in behind central Rosie Smith getting back on her as the pair close in on the area does well to get across her see the ball back to her keeper. Sophie Lubbock chasing the ball as with Bailey in the left corner the striker pressuring to get the ball back up the line to Patten she strikes the ball goalwards from the angle can only put it into the arms of the goalkeeper.

Fakenham Town Ladies, Tash Patten

Tavern continue to win the physical battle stronger to win the ball, nothing malicious is a good spirited game, a good contest. Hart-Copsey lifts the ball on for Griffith breaking through the middle, Rosie Smith getting cross to lung in to put the ball wide for the throw in. Tavern winning a corner as Fuller’s turn and hit from 20 yards out takes a nick to divert it wide of goal. The delivery in close to the near post defended. Tavern make another change Barnes the player off back on comes Meganne Smith.

Vicki Lubbock nipping in to win the ball back central for Fakenham lay it forwards for Sophie Lubbock top of the area she shoots the strike put over the crossbar. Tavern turn play around in the middle quickly Kean threatening to get away through the middle 25 yards out Sands lunging in brings her down, the free-kick awarded, not the last defender as the whole Fakenham defence had turned in unison and Maddie Smith was close, nevertheless a yellow card shown to Sands and another set-piece in a dangerous position for Tavern.

GOAL! Now I run the batteries in my camera to the limit knew it was nearly out, so now wasn’t the time to get the big red flashing battery symbol but there you go… happens once a game. Slightly further out to her goal in the first half Fuller is on the set-piece once again left of the D is another well struck shot a strong hit past the wall to land inside the left post and extend the visitors lead 1-5.

A little under 10 minutes left to play Tavern with a commanding lead. Tavern playing well Hart-Copsey latching onto a poor goal kick 30 yards out central tries to lift a shot straight back in plays it off target. Fakenham aren’t giving up by any means looking to get forwards find a goal Spurrell central sees Sophie Lubbock making a move out to the left to get in behind Bailey the full back though reading the move steps across to intercept the pass clear it out to the right, Riches having bombed on for Fakenham getting hold of the loose ball drives a shot wide of the near post from 20 yards.

Kean running on trying to get in behind the Fakenham defence as the ball is put long for her to go after heads it on in behind left of goal carries it on towards the box letting fly with a shot beating the advancing keeper sees her effort strike the side netting. Fusco winning the ball at the back gets a rush of blood to the head as she takes the ball forwards making it at the way to the top of the area before shooting a challenge deflecting it on pushed wide by Easter.

Tavern Ladies, Emily Fusco

Fakenham come forwards going left good combination play between the Lubbock sisters as Davies chases the ball into the left corner put back up to the top corner of the box for Patten she takes on the shot a looping ball that dips late on the keeper, Gibbons across at her near post blocking with her legs the ball behind for the corner.

Tash Patten taking on the shot for Fakenham Town Ladies

The corner ball in cleared by the Tavern defence. The visiting side getting forwards in the closing minute the ball across the top of the area, Meganne Smith brought down inside the D by the outstretched leg of Vicki Lubbock a last gasp free-kick for Tavern. Fuller on a hat-trick setting the ball down this one alot closer not always the easiest to strike has a go for goal the strike put over the bar the last act of the game Tavern winning 5-1 to advance in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

Full time Fakenham Town Ladies 1-5 Tavern Ladies

An enjoyable cup tie competitive between the two sides. Clear to see why Tavern have made such a good start to the season organised at the back getting forwards well, clinical with their chances. Fakenham no doubt disappointed but had chances of their own the final ball just not happening at times. Tavern winning the physical battle showing great movement and vision going forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few notable performances to note from Fakenham first, Vicki Lubbock with some great ones on midfield creating both goal scoring opportunities for herself and teammates well backed up by Celemence Anhour who I believe was making her competitive debut in midfield along with Megan Spurrell in attack. For Tavern it was an all round team performance organised at the back breaking up play in the middle and breaking forwards well. There has to be one name alone though. Atlanta Griffith with some great movement on and off the ball the award goes to Sophie Fuller aside from two very well struck free-kicks provided some fantastic link up play between midfield and attack.

An entertaining game both sides have come along way in the year and a bit a last saw them face each other. A competitive cup tie with Norfolk FA making the draw for the next round live on Wednesday evening on twitter at 6pm. My thanks to both sides for the team details much appreciated.

Match Report – Norwich City Women v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 13th October

Women’s FA Cup

Another slice of Women’s FA Cup action this Sunday a trip to Plantation Park for the 2nd Round Qualifying game between Norwich City Women & Cambridge United WFC.

An all FAWNL South East Division One clash the clubs from that level entering the competition at this stage the game postponed from last weekend, where absolutely nothing survived in Norfolk last Sunday the county well and truly underwater. An East Anglian derby this afternoon and could potential be the same again in 3rd Round Qualifying of the Women’s FA Cup with today’s winners away to either Ipswich Town Women or Royston Town Women whose game also fell foul to the weather last weekend.

The 2nd time Norwich and Cambridge have met in the space 4 days having meet in the league at Plantation Park on Wednesday evening, Vicky Lines with Australian side Capalaba FC most recently scoring her 1st goals for Cambridge putting them into the lead twice Norwich coming back to level twice to earn a share of the points with Natasha Snelling and Aimee Durrant scoring. Both sides keen to get points on the board in the bottom half of what is going to be a very competitive South East Division One.

Changes for both sides over the summer. Norwich changing their name from Ladies to Women a new manager in place Greg Dimsey now head coach. Have lost a few established players particularly in defence have plenty of young talent coming fighting for 1st team places.

Cambridge moving to a new home over the summer now base at St Neots Town FC both squads for training and games a new start have themselves lost a few experienced players a small squad again with youth coming through to battle it out for a place in the first team.

Plantation Park the venue for today’s match. Wet over night the ground came suffer from water logging so it was a case of hedging my bets to see if the game would beat the weather especially with games at either ed of Norfolk called off, but the rain wasn’t heavy and the pitch held up well. Would be soft underfoot and slick plenty of grass cover is a large pitch. The bar open serving hot and cold drinks, a covered stand offering some protection from the weather light rain at kick-off.

Norwich City Women starting XI – Hope Armstrong, Tigi Robson, Lauren Cullum, Eliza McDonald, Izzy Collins, Angelina Nixon, Reeanna Cook, Millie Daviss (C), Keunna Dill, Aimee Durrant & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Kathryn Stanley, Rosie George, Josie Jarvis, Jodie Drake & Megan Todd.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Liz Pamplin, Jemma Moore, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Albany Hodgson, Faith Hewitt, Charlotte Crisp, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Vicky Lines & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Gemma Croucher, Grace Camfield, Katie White & Chloe Armstrong.

Both sides missing players most notably striker Chelsea Garrett for Norwich and midfielder Amber Cantwell for Cambridge amongst others. Norwich wearing yellow shirts and socks with green shorts to kick-off the first half. Cambridge in their change strip white shirts with blue design on front blue shorts and white socks. Cambridge quick to close the ball down no head way for Norwich at the start forced to play it all the way back to defence look to go long down the right Aimee Durrant with the run, Carrie Bennett putting the ball out for the throw defending for Cambridge.

Norwich come right again getting forwards the diagonal ball fired in with pace central met by Keunna Dill her tough taking it to the right looking to strike the shot Albany Hodgson there first to clear for Cambridge at the back. Cambridge counter the ball up to Emma Jenkins on the right up the wing into the corner Lauren Cullum staying with her for Norwich tackling to concede the first corner of the game. Players forwards for the back Cambridge captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming to the ball flicking it on with her feet towards the far post the clearance put high before being headed behind for a 2nd corner. Fired in low towards the near post with Vicky Lines making a clever run shoots close range blocked. Norwich clear a rapid counter away on the right side Durrant crossing early the ball into the area gathered safely by Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin.

GOAL! A goal inside the opening 5 minutes, Norwich taking the lead Cambridge bringing the ball out from the back Norwich quick to press bringing the error the ball won in the final third fired across the top of the area into Dill left of the D her tough taking it inside central 25 out latches onto the shot struck well sends the ball up over the keeper and into the back of the net 1-0.

Norwich bright at the start of the game pressing centrally getting the ball forwards quickly a free-kick won on half way the delivery into the area defended the head sending the ball high to drop in behind, Durrant lively onto it but the angle against her the cross is put behind. Dill gets away on the left, Jemma Moore recovering well diving in with the challenge taking the ball away for the throw. Pamplin with an excellent save to deny Durrant as she attacks right taking on the shot early driven in across goal rising Pamplin throwing up and arm to push the ball behind for the corner kick. The delivery comes in central knocked down towards goal blocked, Burt then launching it clear.

Cambridge United WFC’s Jemma Moore.

Dill lively in attack for Norwich a good ball forwards into her from captain Millie Daviss, Dill getting in front of her marker central to swing her foot into the shot from 30 yards out in a central position, spinning as she strikes it Pamplin can watch it safely wide of her goal. Reeanna Cook and Daviss combine in attack for Norwich getting forwards Durrant the outlet wide right her ball in headed clear by Hodgson for Cambridge.

Eyes on the ball, Cambridge United WFC midfielder Charlotte Crisp

Norwich energetic at the start, Cambridge having soaked up the pressure well break the pass forwards seeing Amy Howlett away over halfway on the left races on towards the box coming inside one on one with the keeper commits Hope Armstrong into the dive attempting to block the ball as she travels right knocks it past her shoots trying to cut the ball back into the empty net the ball striking the base of the post.

GOAL! The post saving Norwich a moment ago, Cambridge getaway on the left in attack this time and score. Striker Kelley Blanchflower gathering the ball int her feet and driving up the left wing a powerful run on the ball taking it into the box to the byline getting away from a last ditch challenge to come back inside smashes her shot low across the goal to equalise 1-1.

Cambridge’s turn to exert some pressure in attack, Moore getting forwards on the overlap to support Jenkins. Lines across to help forces Norwich to give away the throw high up the pitch Moore has a long throw in her arsenal. The ball almost finds it’s way through across the six yard box Norwich struggle to clear eventually put out of the box gathered by Moore to loop a cross in from the right an inviting ball dropping far post Lines arriving late can’t quite get onto the end of it.

Cambridge’s Vicky Lines looking to find away through the Norwich defence

Norwich look to attack building on the left Dill laying it on for Cook, Cullum racing on to stay with her the pair combining before Cook sends in a waist high cross towards the top of the area, Snelling stooping to head the ball goalwards can’t get enough power on the ball to trouble Pamplin. Ebbing and flowing is an even contest plenty of energy no one allowed time on the ball and the wet surface making the ball tricky to control at times. Cook surging on through the middle looking to get hold of the ball, Burt out of defence making a strong tackle to deny her.

Izzy Collins clearing the ball for Norwich.

A good understanding forming between Lines and Blanchflower in attack for Cambridge are playing off one another well Cambridge inviting Norwich on at times drawing their defence forwards are quick to exploit Lines putting Blanchflower away to carry the ball on into the area right side closing it on the six yard box hits it hard rising straight at the keeper nevertheless Armstrong does well to get her gloves up to make the save and take the sting out of the shot able to grab it before Blanchflower can capitalise on the rebound.

Keunna Dill controlling the ball well on the touchline for Norwich City Women

A fantastic piece of skill form Dill out wide to bring the ball down on her chest and keep in as it is fired long up to her, plays it inside to Snelling before spinning in behind Moore, Snelling looking to pick her out with the return ball. Moore does well to get back on the Norwich attack to slide in and win the ball back. The light rain that has been falling has stopped the sky looking mildly brighter. Faith Hewitt central plays it on well for Blanchflower beating the offside trap to run at the box, Eliza McDonald with her making the challenge top of the box the ball cleared by Armstrong. Is competitive in the middle Angelina Nixon an ex-Cambridge player lunging in to win the ball against Crisp playing it forwards for Snelling, Burt close in win the tackle for Cambridge.

Cambridge United WFC captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Durrant on the right wing as Norwich push forwards, Cambridge dropping deep into their box the cross long gathered by Dill plays it central to Snelling, closely marked can’t turn to shoot holds up well though laying it back towards the top of the area for Nixon slight hesitation before shooting gives Hewitt the chance to dive in and charge the ball down. Howlett and Jenkins have switched flanks in attack for Cambridge, Howlett right now up with Lines forcing Norwich to concede a throw deep in their territory, Moore to put long into the six yard box bounces on through with no one getting a meaningful touch before being cleared far side.

Time running out in the 1st half Norwich on the attack. From a throw in left Dill plays it into the advancing Nixon left of the box her pass in central for Snelling 20 yards out a tame effort on goal, gathered cleanly by Pamplin. Dill brought down attacking left 30 yards out, Snelling on the set-piece long to the far post headed clear back out to the left Dill bringing it down fouled again another free-kick given.

GOAL! Norwich retake the lead in the closing moment of the first half Durrant on the free-kick fizzed in with pace a good height Daviss six yards out getting her head on the ball to power her header down wide of Pamplin to score 2-1.

Millie Daviss making it 2-1 to Norwich late in the first half

Half-time Norwich City Women 2-1 Cambridge United WFC

Norwich retaking the lead at the death in what was a very entertaining and fast paced half. The rain easing up and eventually stopping. The hosts vocally cheered on well by their mascots Haddenham Rovers Colts U12s treated to fantastic contest so far. The sides fairly even overall play fast little time on the ball. Cambridge soaking up more pressure at times but counter attacking well. Norwich lively throughout looking to get forwards at every opportunity taking an early lead. Cambridge coming back well the post struck before equalising disappointed to concede late in the first half.

Cambridge attack

Cambridge to get the 2nd half underway extra-time and penalties if needed. Blanchflower putting the ball on for Lines moving right, Cullum staying on her to get the ball away for the throw for Norwich. Norwich bring the ball on through the middle Daviss with Nixon onto Durrant away right a good cross into the box central Snelling moving towards the ball Burt on her shoulder squeezes a cut backed shot under the defender and she challenges, Pamplin central through reacts well to get down make the save.

Angelina Nixon on the ball for Norwich City Women

Cambridge feed the ball forwards into Blanchflower, determined on the ball getting forwards, Cullum halting her progress the striker sends it across the top of the box with Jenkins racing forwards central her attempt charged down the deflection spinning away to the far post gathering by Lines to hit goalwards, Armstrong across at her post diving getting both gloves securely around the ball.

Norwich goalkeeper, Hope Armstrong.

Nixon breaking up a Cambridge attack sends the ball on for the advancing Cook, Crisp across lunging in to tackle the ball won back the game competitive in the middle. Hodgson with a vital interception at the back for Cambridge as Dill aims to send Snelling in behind as she peels away right. Norwich with a ball forwards fortunate as it finds its way through to Durrant top of the area her tough forwards looks to prod it back across the keeper, Pamplin down making a fantastic save with her legs to deny her.

GOAL! Cambridge come back to level the scores for the 2nd time in the match. The ball played out from the ball into Jenkins central he helps it’s on its way to Blanchflower pulling away to the left in space she drives on intent on finding her way into the box shoots on the angle pace on the ball races past Armstrong into the goal beyond to score her 5th goal of the season 2-2.

Cambridge United WFC striker, Kelley Blanchflower

Norwich look for an immediate reply Dill with a burst of pace on the left side travelling to the byline a good ball cut back towards the top of the area, no one making the run however allowing Cambridge to build a move forwards. Norwich making the first change of the match McDonald the player coming off, Kathryn Stanley coming on. A move that sees her go left and Dill drop into central defence. A flowing one two between Nixon and Snelling as the midfielder breaks forwards to the top of the area sees Snelling put a shot wide from inside the area.

Norwich City Women captain, Millie Daviss

The game remains open neither side on top both looking like they can score. Daviss with a superb pass forwards to pick out Durrant on the right down the wing a cross flashed in missed by Snelling near post, Pamplin plucking it down central needed with Stanley racing in far side. A 2nd change for Norwich with Cullum coming off, on in her place Rosie George. Norwich pushing up a throw on the right finds Nixon on the byline turns well to play it back to Durrant six yards out shoots, Burt throwing herself into the challenge blocking the ball away for a corner kick.

Emma Jenkins playing the ball for Cambridge with Norwich’s Aimee Durant closing in

Cambridge make their first change of the game, Gemma Croucher coming on for Lines in attack. Stanley with a 25 yard shot as Nixon brings the ball on from midfield is tackled. The shot straight at Pamplin. Crisp passing the ball on for Blanchflower pulling away left gets behind Robson, the full back recovering well to lunge in to make the block as the striker shoots from the edge of the box. Norwich with a 3rd change, Snelling the player off on comes Josie Jarvis with the game entering the final 10 minutes.

GOAL! Norwich have been competitive in the middle all game Daviss supported by Cook and Nixon the ball pressed and won put forwards into the path of Durrant right side of goal 25 plus yards out, strikes it well taken early up and down over the keeper to nestle in the goal beyond and give the hosts the lead late in the game 3-2.

Aimee Durrant playing the ball on scoring the winning goal for Norwich City Women

Cambridge get on the offensive straight from the restart the ball with Hewitt central on for Jenkins right does well to hold it up in the corner a lack of support doing well to get throw, Blanchflower back to Moore who crosses high into the area Jarvis able to bring it away for Norwich. Cambridge make a change Katie White on for Howlett. Norwich getting forwards looking to keep the ball in the corner Durrant managing to force a corner. A good delivery into the box attacked by George near side can only put her header wide across goal.

Norwich frustrating Cambridge late on determined to keep them off the ball Daviss with a looping shot as she gets free right 20 yards out dropping down at a comfortable height in front of Pamplin to claim. Grace Camfield coming on in the closing moments for Cambridge in place of Jenkins. Norwich with renewed energy the winning post in touching distance snapping in to win the ball Stanley shooting over from 30 yards out. Durrant back to help in defence in the closing seconds as Cambridge try to force a path through on the right. The final whistle blows and it’s Norwich who advance in the Women’s FA Cup.

Full time Norwich City Women 3-2 Cambridge United WFC

An away tie against East Anglian rivals Ipswich Town Women in 3rd Round Qualifying as they comfortably progressed against Royston this afternoon. The tie to be played Sunday 27th October. A late winner this afternoon and to be fair to both sides it could well have gone either way entering the final 15 minutes I felt that whoever scored next would go on to win the game you couldn’t have called it. Highly entertaining, competitive without any over the top challenges.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a few contenders once again. Kelley Blanchflower superb leading the attack for Cambridge strong and determined on the ball clinical in her finishing. For Norwich Aimee Durrant was excellent making fantastic runs to receive the ball always providing and outlet a well taken strike to win the game. Keunna Dill lively from the off a great strike to give Norwich the early lead offering a threat on the left. Midfield competitve all round a great contest to watch and coming out on top today’s award goes to Norwich captain Millie Daviss battle well breaking up play making it difficult for Cambridge to play through the middle.

An entertaining game, always frustrated afterwards because I want more! The weather not dampening things too much. My thanks to both teams for the team details as always appreciated.

Match Report Special – Kick Cancer Cup 2019

Thursday 26th September

Kick Cancer Cup 2019

Delighted to be covering a match report of a different variety on Women’s Football East, a special date in the women’s footballing calendar in Cambridgeshire now entering it’s 5th year the Kick Cancer Cup.

A charity match between Sam’s XI and an S-Tech XI League representative side, raising money for two very worthy causes, the Addenbrooke’s Charitable Trust (ACT) and the Arthur Rank Hospice.

Invited to write a match report last year only too happy to cover it again having been a spectator at previous games. The Kick Cancer Cup set up by the aforementioned Sam, Samantha Isaacson with support from many friends and family. Sam was diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer in 2015, both charities playing a large role in helping her with her ongoing treatment. In all that time has continued to play for her club Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds outfield or in goal. Sam has helped raise nearly £50,000 so far for charity.

The Kick Cancer Cup contested between Sam’s XI and an Cambridgeshire S-tech XI assembled from the clubs playing with the Premiership and Championship in the county 17 clubs in total represented. The S-Tech XI having had the better of Sam’s XI in the first 3 years of the Kick Cancer Cup. Sam’s XI winning the game for the first time last year 3-2 will be determined to make it back to back wins.

Plenty to be organised, cake stall, raffle, food and bar all available the venue Histon FC’s Glassworld Stadium the pitch a good size nice and wide in very good condition. Rain earlier in the week stayed away most of the day leaving a pleasant night for football. Musical entertainment from Holly Jean Sings before the match, a singer/songwriter from Cambridgeshire. The Cambridge Dynamite Cheerleaders putting on a display prior to kick-off with band 15:48 providing the half-time entertainment. A good sized crowd building as the two squads prepared for the game.

Sam’s XI squad – Samantha Issacson, Dominika Szary, Emma D’Costa, Abi Molloy, Sarah Bodger, Jess Anderson, Seema Grewal, Nat Wells, Kirstie Smith, Georgia Astley Tyler, Nikki Cowan, Emma Place, Laura Mills, Kayleigh Whitehead, Jo Woods, Emma Clark, Jenna Hulme, Katie Luddy, Krissie Taylor, Olivia Clark, Naomi Weir, Stacey Fullicks, Michelle McCormack, Ebony Rule, Marie Stubbings, Stacey Kemp, Vicky Houchin, Joeli Kirby & Tash Applegate.

Sam’s XI Management Team – Vicky Neal & Kevin Knock.

Sam’s XI squad

S-Tech XI squad – Beth Goodman & Fran Kavanagh (Ketton Ladies), Peggy Keeler & Steph Swinyard (Cambourne United), Libbie Read & Ruth Telfer (Cambridge Rangers), Louisa Harwood & Kat Silver (Isleham United Ladies), Caitlin McGeown & Cherish Sibanda (St Ives Town Ladies), Evie Jakes & Leah Harper (Newmarket Town Women), Jess Farchica & Carmen Herridge (ICA Sports Ladies), Alexi Waters & Eleanor McLeish (March Town United Ladies), Melissa Collins & Jasmine Luckett (Mildenhall Town Ladies), Fran Piltsch & Nikki Hancock (Park Ladies), Sydney Davies & Amanda Binge (Histon Ladies), Kayla Dortch & Charley Ireland (PNS Ladies), Hannah Lock & Jess (Cambridge City Ladies), Georgina Parrett & Katie Cooper (Netherton United Ladies), (Kat Clocherty & El Morgan (Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds), Amy Newell and Chloe Stanborough (Leverington Ladies), Beth Harding & Ella Terri (Haverhill Rovers Ladies).

S-Tech XI Management Team – Katie Critchley & Liz Pamplin.

The S-Tech XI representative squad

Large squads for both sides and substitutes happening on mass, didn’t even try to keep track of them, everyone playing their part in the event.

The S-Tech XI to get tonight’s charity match underway kicking off 1st half wearing grey coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Sam’s XI wearing blue shirts a white upper part, black shorts and blue socks. The ball put back into defence sent long at the start out to the right Georgina Parrett making the run, Jess Anderson deals with the ball at the back for Sam’s XI on the immediate counter attack the ball forwards Marie Stubbings racing in behind, the ball safely gathered by Katie Cooper keeping goal for the S-Tech XI.

GOAL! An early goal capping a lively start to the game, the S-Tech XI attacking on the left wing the ball high slid forwards into the run of Hannah Lock sliding in to get to the ball before the defence sends in past goalkeeper Samantha Issacson across the face of goal and in of the opposite post to opening the scoring 0-1.

Hannah Lock being congratulated after scoring the opening goal

Laura Mills advancing with the ball down the right for Sam’s XI lays it forwards with Stubbings bursting through the middle, just a little too early the flag up against her. Both sides looking to get forwards quickly S-Tech clear on the right a cross/shot fired along the front of goal out past the far post. Parrett looks to put Peggy Keeler in as the full back goes past her in attack, Anderson across to win the challenge. The ball fed through the middle into Stubbings top of the D she looks to pass the Katie Luddy up with her, Beth Goodman close in defending against Luddy to set up an attack for the S-Tech XI, Parrett lively on the right early on.

GOAL! Sam’s XI come back to level the scores turning play around defending the ball put on over halfway with Stubbings latching onto it off like a hare baring down on the area into the box closing in on the six yard box can’t be caught opens her body to send a low shot under the keeper before she can get down to save 1-1. 10 minutes gone.

GOAL! No sooner have they got back on level terms then Sam’s XI concede, Chloe Stanborough playing in centre midfield of the S-Tech Xi taking the ball on travelling a pace right side before cutting back and strike the ball well form 25 yards out the ball racing across the keeper into the bottom corner 1-2.

Chloe Stanborough

Sam’s XI push on in attack Krissie Taylor up with Stubbings top of the area outnumbering Keller, the defender nevertheless cool under pressure keeping her eyes on the ball not letting either it get away from her before clearing for Parrett to bring up field. Mills always ready to take players on attacking down the right wins a throw deep. Keeler the first change of the match coming off with Caitlin McGeown joining the S-Tech defence. McGeown called into action straight away the ball in from the right evading the crowded near post area runs across goal, Taylor ready to pounce inside the six yard box McGeown nipping in in front of her to win the ball and clear.

Issacson with a fantastic save down low at her near post to deny Parrett a goal as she slides in to push the ball goalwards inside the area. The ball put long for Sam’s XI, Stubbings controlling well bringing it on to the top of the S-Tech area, the opposition defence closing her option Stubbings lays it back to the advancing, Vicky Houchin she leans into a shot from 25 yards out the ball looping towards goal not troubling Cooper. A free-kick on halfway for the S-Tech XI, Goodman over it, decides to try her luck sending a high ball towards goal, drops behind for a goal kick.

Taylor combining with Stubbings as they advance for Sam’s XI through the middle, McGeown coming in field tackling to regain possession. Great running from Mills on Sam’s XI right wing getting deep squared a cross in intercepted and cleared near post by S-Tech’s Steph Swinyard. S-Tech quick to launch a counter offensive Stanborough on for Fran Kavanagh to race clear right channel into the area one on one with the keeper, Issacson stays big to make the blocking save as Kavanagh shoots.

I’m getting little opportunity to put the pen down the action one end the the other Stubbings forever a threat ready to burst in behind, Cooper making the decision to race out of her box in an attempt to reach the ball before Stubbings can shoot, the ball put past the keeper, rolls agonisingly wide of the far post. Half and hour played sees a change en masse think Cooper’s still the only one out there a new team for both sides with 15 minutes of the half left. A free-kick on halfway right for the S-Tech XI, Beth Harding on it the ball towards the top of the area headed on into the area hooked clear by the Sam’s XI defence a counter on Stacey Kemp making the central run shoots from all of 30 yards out, Cooper back peddling towards her goal able to gather the ball.

GOAL! Sam’s XI taking full advantage of all the new additions to the action bringing it back to 2-2. Stacey Fullicks building a career as a referee these days marking her return from a 4 week injury lay off with a playing cameo tonight on the ball for Sam’s Xi left side lifts the pass on for Tash Applegate in attack coming over to receive the ball a good touch and turn sees her escape her marker to make for the area, the keeper coming out to challenge a 50/50 challenge off her legs Applegate off balance staying on her feet after the ball deflected in behind and sends a shot from inside the six yard box to score 2-2.

The new look Sam’s XI bright as they push on Fullicks keen to get forwards on the left, Harding sliding into the tackle forcing her wide, Fullicks keeping possession to cross can only find the side netting. Sam’s XI press the advantage winning a corner, the ball in towards the far post claimed confidently by the keeper. Another corner finding it’s way to though to Fullicks inside the area looks to dig the ball out of her feet between the Harding and Davies get the ball clear. The ball won back in midfield threaded through to Applegate left of the D 20 yards out strikes a swerving shot in on target, Cooper saves.

A strong end to the 1st half for Sam’s XI have their opponents on the back foot, Applegate continuing to look for an opening. Joeli Kirby with a driving run into the box her ball forwards charged down. Kat Clocherty battling for the ball central for the S-Tech XI almost releases her attackers late on Sam’s XI new keeper gathering the ball.

Half-time Sam’s XI 2-2 S-Tech XI

Honours even at half-time all square Sam’s XI coming back to level thing’s up twice, the game wide open with another 45 minutes to play. Still drawing after that and it goes to penalties. Half-time entertainment underway, a fantastic crowd in attendance over 500 people great to see and a great atmosphere. Emma Place on for Nat Wells at the start of the 2nd period for Sam’s XI who restart the match, S-Tech quickly pressing the ball getting away on the right a throw won deep, the ball helped on into the area cleared, Sam’s XI breaking left side the ball lifted on Kemp getting a shot away to beat the advancing keeper but play brought back with an up raised flag.

Jo Woods defending outside the area for Sam’s XI as Clocherty looks to play in Amanda Binge. Possession won back in midfield by the S-Tech XI forwards to Binge wins her side a corner. Harding offering herself for a short corner on the left the ball crossed in ventral top of the box Clocherty getting a shot away the ball running wide. Fullicks lining up a strike from distance wide left she’d the ball fall wide of the near post. Eleanor McLeish making a good run across her opponents defence left to right as the ball is played over the top controls well to unleash a shot back across goal from 25 yards out the strike rolling wide of the far post.

Good work between Kirby and Seema Grewal combining right side for Sam’s Xi sees Kemp away to attack centrally, challenged the ball out for a throw. The trio with more good work passing the ball between them to make ground up the pitch succeed in finding Fullicks on the clear wide left. Fullicks driving infield strong on the ball taking it into the box the angle tight her shot blocked, the ball lose at the near post Applegate latching onto it sees another block coming in deflected out of the box a distance shot falling behind the goal.

A free-kick wide right for Sam’s XI, Applegate over it a good delivery into the area headed clear, Kirstie Smith latching onto it 20 yards out her shot rising over the crossbar. Pressure from Sam’s XI a strong start to the 2nd half. Play stopped though with a player down, Applegate unable to continue after lengthy treatment, good to see her back in action her game ending. S-Tech XI changing their goalkeeper with El Morgan coming on. Soon after play resumes Kirby with a strong dribbling run into the opposition area tackled before she can get a shot away.

The 2nd change en masse now as the game enters the final half hour. Is an entertaining contest a large pitch both sides looking to get in behind, the crowd enjoying the occasion. Jess Farchica bringing the ball on from the back for the S-Tech XI, has ICA Sports team mate Carmen Herridge ahead of her she rolls it on for Melissa Collins the ball taken wide into the corner a great cross flashes in across the six yard box dangerous but no one can get a touch to turn it towards goal. Leah Harper taking the ball forwards central S-Tech regaining some momentum, rolled into Collins, tackled top of the box.

Kayla Dortch in to win the ball in midfield passes forwards for McLeish aiming to get away left, the keeper out to the corner of her area able to claim safely. The game moving into the final quarter hour. More changes for Sam’s XI, Stubbings back on the field. Herridge linking up with Kat Silver on the left a throw won taken quickly Herridge looking to carry the ball inside makes for the box Molloy in to challenge win the tackle for Sam’s XI. Harper getting in behind on the left into the area closed down lays it back to Herridge, Georgia Astley Tyler getting back on her to challenge has a free-kick given against her.

Samantha Issacson

Grewal doing the defensive work as Harper races away with the ball on the left. Issacson coming on for the final minutes of the game in attack. Harper lively for the S-Tech XI winning a late corner, fired in low into a crowded six yard box at the near post a shot blasted goalwards, Grewal defending the post blocking on the line, another scramble for the ball mayhem before the keeper can get down to smother the ball. Molloy clearing a Jasmine Luckett sees a shot charged down, the S-Tech side pushing for a late winner, Dortch with a strike from distance save in the keepers gloves. The final whistle blows the game going to penalties.

Full time Sam’s XI 2-2 S-Tech XI

Penalties

S-Tech to get the shootout underway the ball struck low and accurate into the bottom left corner 1-0.

Michelle McCormack up first for Sam’s XI, opens her body to sends a pacy low drive wide of the keeper 1-1.

S-Tech’s 2nd penalty struck high evading the diving keeper to nestle into the back of the net 2-1.

Sam’s XI, 2nd penalty touched onto the post by the keeper diving at full stretch advantage S-Tech 2-1.

The advantage gone straight away S-Tech’s next penalty hit central not having the height or power to beat the keeper 2-1.

A chance for Sam’s XI to level things up Issacson to take their 3rd penalty struck well low into the bottom corner 2-2.

McLeish up to take S-Tech’s 4th penalty hit well to the keepers right to make it 3-2.

Luddy to take the 4th penalty for Sam’s XI confident to make it 3-3.

Farchica strikes her penalty low to the left of the keeper, guessing right is down to save at full stretch 3-3.

A chance to win it for Sam’s Xi the 5th penalty hit high the goalkeeper diving to push the ball away to send the shootout to sudden death 3-3.

Beth Goodman to take S-Tech’s sixth penalty however she has to make a dash to the dug out to grab her boots, new tactics as she ties her laces before the spot, does the trick as she blasts the ball home! 4-3 (may well be the new routine should Ketton Ladies face any penalty shootouts during the season).

Joeli Kirby up to take Sam’s XI has to score, agony as the keeper saves high to see the S-Tech XI win the 2019 Kick Cancer Cup.

A penalty shootout win for the S-Tech XI to win back the Kick Cancer Cup, truth though everyone’s a winner out there playing the game for a great cause regardless of the result.

The S-Tech XI representative side 2019 Kick Cancer Cup winners.

A hugely enjoyable night, fantastic football despite all the changes everyone enjoying themselves a crowd of over 500 in attendance and I’m sure lots raised for charity. Congratulations to everyone playing, officiating and organising the event. Grateful to write a report, hopefully everyone is where I thought they were. Thanks to Stacey Fullicks and Liz Pamplin for getting those all important numbers and too Gary Reed for letting me use his pictures for the report.

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies

Sunday 15th September

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

First taste of county league action this season and we begin in Cambridgeshire a game from the Women’s Premiership, March Town United Ladies v ICA Sports Ladies.

The 3rd weekend in a row a side from Peterborough has featured in a match report. ICA Sports Ladies the visitors this time around. An large influx of new sides entering the county leagues in Cambridgeshire this season sees the Premiership swell from 8 to 13 sides with a new single division Championship consisting of 15 sides.

March Town United Ladies one of the sides sitting out the opening weekend, begin their campaign this Sunday, now an established side in the Premiership finishing comfortably in what proved to be a competitive tussle in mid-table. Now part of a 13 strong Premiership alot more football to be played 6 new sides those promoted starting well March will be looking to make an impact.

A runners-up finish in the Premiership for ICA Sports Ladies last season, competing within the Peterborough area a hotbed for women’s football, the club both male and female has a very strong youth section always looking to bring players through. Like March well established in the league will be aiming to be as competitive as last season push for the top end of the table. Started their season with a win, although only just letting a 6-2 lead at home to Fulbourn Institute Bluebirds slips to clinch it 6-5 at the final whistle.

Didn’t get to see either side in action last season, and it has been a while since I’ve visited March Town United Ladies, GER Sportsground. Boasts the 2nd oldest wooden football stand in existence set back from the pitch, the venue having hosted greyhound racing in the past. A new clubhouse leading into the ground on one corner, the bar and kitchen open for hot drinks. An historic ground, a good sized pitch. A hot and humid day, close with some cloud cover, the sun hot when it breaks through.

March Town United Ladies starting XI – Toni Sharpe, Kayleigh Churchyard, Megan Webb, Louise Billingham, Claire Newton, Megan Tombs, Alexis Waters, Adele Munday (C), Emma Searle, Abigail Grist & Eleanor McLeish. Subs- Naomi McGarvie.

ICA Sports Ladies starting XI – Claire Knibbs, Cara Clarke, Jessica Farchica, Becky Shields (C), Sophie Antonucci, Zoe Leddy, Hannah Murphy, Sarah Rouse, Donna Nicholls, Piper Hebditch & Carmen Herridge. Subs – Tessa Morrison.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Both sides short of numbers naming just 1 substitute each, players unavailable and missing through injury. ICA Sports without their goalkeeper, Claire Knibbs donning the gloves. ICA Sports opting to switch ends at the coin toss with the high sun a factor facing down on one goal. March to get the game underway wearing yellow shirts, black shorts and socks. ICA Sports lined up opposite wearing blue shirts and shorts with blue and white hooped socks. The visitors press from the off forcing a throw left the ball put up the line Donna Nicholls fresh from scoring an opening day hat-trick bursting forwards putting the March defence under pressure gets inside to let loose a shot from 30 yards out her attempt well wide.

March bring the ball out fro the back Megan Tombs left and Abigail Grist right making runs wide looking for the crossfield pass, the ball played left Tombs bringing it down is challenged by Cara Clarke possession regained for ICA Sports. March win the ball back central forwards with Eleanor McLeish coming inside from the left taking aim from outside the area her shoot low gathered by Knibbs. March with another crossfield pass find Grist breaking in behind right side taking the ball to the byline her cross cut out by Sophie Antonucci for the first corner of the game.

Abigail Grist attacking for March Town United Ladies

GOAL! An early goal as ICA Sports break from March’s corner kick the ball cleared up-field Nicholls racing away clear on the left drives in field towards the area, the March defence racing to get back plays in central to Carman Herridge, wants to return it to Nicholls but is closed down instead has a 2nd option racing up to support Hannah Murphy receiving the lay off 25 yards out connecting well to fire in a shot past goalkeeper Toni Sharpe before she can set herself. 0-1.

Hannah Murphy (right) opening the scoring for ICA Sports Ladies

ICA Sports leading within the opening 5 minutes are looking sharp early on breaking quickly Sarah Rouse breaking up a March attack, Nicholls frustrated as she goes a fraction to early the flag raised against her as Murphy central looks to put it on over the top for her. March captain Adele Munday getting hold of the ball looks to carry it through the middle her determined run ended by Rouse.

GOAL! The visitors quickly find themselves race into a 2 goal lead. Nicholls a real threat attacking on the left gets away in behind this time pace on the ball travelling into the box left side into the six yard box time to way up her options players racing in central opens up her body to shoot a close range, the ball finding it’s way through the goalkeepers legs as she shapes to block. 0-2.

Donna Nicholls doubles the lead for ICA Sports Ladies

A great start for ICA Sports 2 goals to the good inside 10 minutes looking lively the ball won high up the pitch play turned around quickly forcing their opponents into rushing their passes. Murphy brought down central 30 yards out players forwards as Nicholls stands over the set piece into the area, headed clear, March unable to break ICA Sports straight back at them, the pass into Nicholls her ball forwards long. March struggling to get any sustained possession early on. A change for ICA Sports Piper Hebditch has taken a slight knock on the right, Tessa Morrison coming on.

Carmen Herridge holding the ball up

Murphy attacking for ICA Sports right channel on for Herridge takes the ball on into the area Louise Billingham going with her for March the centre back winning the challenge, the ball gathered by Morrison wide right her cross long across the box Nicholls on it far side shapes to shoot across the keeper, Sharpe with an excellent save throwing out a glove to push the ball away. A slight delay then as for the 2nd week running somebody as left a present on the pitch the duty of clearing it up once again falling to the manager. An appropriate time for a drinks break is hot out there (enjoy it while it lasts).

ICA Sports on the front foot again from the restart Murphy seeing Nicholls making her move left sides aiming to put the ball over the top, too close to the keeper this time. Munday looks to get things going for March through the middle a strong run forwards Clarke stays with her as they head for the box, Munday getting a shot away 25 yards out runs wide of the goal. ICA Sports caught offside March defender Claire Newton on the free-kick plays a fantastic ball into her opponents half in front of the area Munday bringing it down into the feet of fellow midfielder Emma Searle she lifts a shot over the bar from 25 yards out.

March finding their feet growing into the game but ICA Sports remain a threat ready to break on the counter should they commit too many forwards. The ball cleared by the March defence after a spell of head tennis in the final third, Murphy free 35 yards out meeting it on the volley aiming to lob the keeper her strike dropping short safely caught by Sharpe. March make a change Naomi McGarvie coming on for Billingham, the substitution seeing Alexis Waters drop into the back line.

March Town United Ladies captain, Adele Munday

Munday back helping her defence as Nicholls looks to put the ball over the top for Herridge running central. Waters winning the race to the ball getting a vital touch inside the area to clear for a corner as Murphy looks to get on through the middle. The ball from the corner put in near side met by an ICA Sports head turned goalwards dropping straight at Sharpe on her line cleanly gathered.

Megan Webb brought down getting forwards on the right for March the free-kick 30 yards out Searle over in floated into the area near post, Jessica Farchica tracking the runner to clear behind for a corner. The initial ball cleared back to the corner taker a 2nd cross fired in central into McGarvie back to goal attempts to control and turn to shoot closed down before she can. March enjoying a period of possession within the ICA Sports final 3rd Munday linking up with Searle, another free-kick given on the right deeper this time Newton forwards to take a fine delivery to the back post a March head meeting it falls wide of the post six yards out. Grist winning a corner right ICA Sports defend Herridge on it looking to break central is obstructed by Waters referee Ian Reynolds awarding the free-kick

GOAL! From the resulting free-kick ICA Sports go on to extend their lead Nicholls over it players forwards into the ball a good floated ball in central captain Becky Shields rising highest to meet it her header taking the ball out to the left where Murphy has strayed unmarked to collect and blast a shot in across the keeper 0-3.

ICA Sports remain sharp as the first half draws to a close another free-kick given on half-way the ball up towards the top of the area defended by Webb for March. ICA Sports keeping possession right Morrison playing it into the area the March defence stepping out well to leave Herridge offside. Searle with a powerful run on the ball through the middle for March Farchina on her shoulder 20 yards out does enough as the midfielder shoots does get the touch she wanted the ball tame as it is gathered by Knibbs.

Moments left in the first period Nicholls alert running in central catches Newton in possession outside the area takes the ball on Sharpe running out to meet her, Nicholls touch taking the ball wide of the advancing keeper momentum taking her wide of goal as she enters the six yard box, Newton haring back to get on the goal line Nicholls again weighing up the options as Sharpe back to closes the angle, Nicholls has Herridge steaming in lays the ball into her path 3 yards out central an opening goal begging manages to send the ball running wide across the face out beyond the far post.

Half-time March Town United Ladies 0-3 ICA Sports Ladies

The end to an otherwise dominant first half from ICA Sports, an early lead quickly doubled seeing them on the front foot. Preventing March getting any momentum going closing the ball down well, Hebditch and Nicholls looking to break wide in support of Herridge through the middle, Murphy with some excellent runs to with Rouse and Luddy protecting in midfield. March struggling to get up to the pace of the game, Munday and Searle trying to get things going through the middle, Knibbs though largely untested so far. Alot for March to do if they want to get anything from the game.

Adele Munday and Sophie Antonucci going to win the ball

Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd half, Hebditch back on, playing right. Billingham back on to at left back in place of Webb. ICA Sports to get the 2nd half underway. Attacking left Munday across to win the ball back the ball played long to Tombs pushing on down the left she plays another crossfield pass long for Grist attacking right down to the corner finds her way inside Antonucci to play the ball with the outside of her boot across the six yard box, McGarvie meeting it in the middle under challenge fires the ball wide across goal.

March Town United Ladies, Claire Newton

A positive start to the 2nd half from March sees a sot fired over from distance. Newton defending at the back chasing back with Nicholls as she looks to get onto the ball. Nicholls remains a threat on the left holding the ball up, Newton and Billingham doubling up on her, she ducks inside to lift a cross into the box the flag up against Hebditch on the right. Munday with a strong challenge getting the ball on for March to Grist right side looking to take the ball on checks back to square across the top of the area with McGarvie making a run so too Rouse in front of her intercepting.

Newton and Sarah Rouse collide

March looking better at the start of the 2nd half, ICA Sports though with a 3 goal lead can sit back a little. Murphy still prepared to get forwards attacking right shooting from 25 yards out the ball wide at the near post. Rouse putting the ball on from a throw inside her half up to Murphy she see Nicholls ready to go right the flag up against her a close call but just too soon.

GOAL! March pull a goal back from an free-kick given against ICA Sports inside their own half, Newton on it plays another good delivery in towards the top of the area the ball knocked down central collected by Searle controls moves across the D to the right shift before unleashing a shot put across the keeper strikes the inside of the far post and nestles inside the back of the net 1-3.

Emma Searle pulls it back to 3-1 for March Town United Ladies

The game more competitive between the pair now March matching ICA Sports earlier intensity. A push in the back spotted against Herridge ICA Sports with a free-kick wide right, Nicholls sends it deep Murphy with a late run, getting onto the end of it her touch pushing it out from her feet puts her shot wide across the face of goal. ICA Sports starting to pick up the pace slow at the start of the first half push players on Luddy getting forwards into a shooting position outside the box 20 yards out fires the ball straight into the keeper.

Billingham kept busy by Nicholls on the wing the ICA Sports attacker not finding it so easy to get away 2nd half, far from out of it however. A drop ball as Murphy plays the ball against the back of the referees head trying to launch it forwards. Drop ball not contested this season Shields sends it forwards for Murphy having run up field left side into the box Tombs defends conceding the corner.

Combination play on the right between Nicholls and Hebditch on the right before a shot comes fizzing in across the six yard box Sharpe down smartly to push the ball away out to the left, ICA Sports keeping possession the ball flung in headed clear drops to Farchica 25 yards out her attempt back in falling wide of the mark. Lively now the sun hidden by clouds cooling things down. The March defence drawn to the ball a miscued clearance playing it on for Herridge allows the striker to set Nichols away in behind Billingham, Newton does well to get across a tackle to clear for a corner. The delivery long cleared at the far post.

GOAL! ICA Sports restore their 3 goal lead a throw inside their own half put forwards well by Rouse up to Herridge in attack opens her body to spread play wide left with the ever lively Nicholls bursting forwards clear to race on into the area closing in on goal send her strike in low Sharpe down can’t get there in time as it evades her to cross the line 1-4.

Donna Nicholls scores to restore ICA Sports 3 goal lead

A drinks break called changes made with Webb back on in place of Churchyard for March and Morrison back on for ICA Sports replacing Hebditch. Grist’s clearance over the clubhouse the ball lost on the road beyond. Grist taking the new ball forwards down the right covering plenty of grass into the corner doing well to win a corner.

ICA Sports Ladies, Sarah Rouse

GOAL! From the corner March score again comes in near side towards the top of the area defended but sliced on across the top of the D, Searle meeting it left 20 out hits it hard and straight through bodies finds its way in 2-4. 15 minutes left to play.

Nicholls brought down attacking left right on the edge of the area. Taking the free-kick the ball lifted in across goal safe in the hands of Sharpe, March look to counter quickly the ball carried over half way by Munday forwards for McLeish, Shields getting across her as the pair enter the area to safely marshal it back to her keeper. Newton stepping forwards out of the defence well intercepts as Nicholls aims to thread a ball through the middle for Herridge. Herridge herself attacking top of the area receiving the pass from Murphy finds herself crowded off the ball by Waters and Webb.

ICA Sports upping their intensity once again as they push on late on the game winning a corner on the right put into the box headed towards goal cleared off the line by Newton I think. Herridge after a long ball sent forwards on the right wing collects on the byline the game stretched players out of position Nicholls coming in field clear at the top of the area, Billingham recovers in the nick of time to race across to lung in and intercept the ball. Grist coming off for March with Churchyard back on.

GOAL! ICA Sports score a 5th goal late in the game counter with the ball up to Nicholls left beating the offside trap plays the diagonal ball into the box for Herridge providing the run right of the D, she shoots early putting the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner.

March look for an immediate reply Searle fouled brought down central as she and Munday combine well again in attack. The set-piece 25 yards out McLeish to take, doesn’t get the height on the shot to trouble Knibbs. Into the final 5 minutes. Murphy stealing in behind the March defence on the right shoots over the bar. ICA attack Antonucci getting forwards with Rouse played inside to Luddy in to attack, Waters challenging, Luddy gets a 2nd bite shooting across goal, Sharpe down pushing the ball wide collected right Morrison sends a strike back in cannons off the bar. ICA Sports ending the game on the front foot as the final whistle blows.

Full time March Town United Ladies 2-5 ICA Sports Ladies

Two wins from two for ICA Sports Ladies sees them topping the table albeit very early in the season. Played well on the front foot early 2-0 up inside the opening 10 minutes adding a 3rd goal before half-time. Pressing well, looking to turn play around quickly with willing runners in attack, Rouse and Luddy confident in front of defence. March struggling in the first half in contrast on the back foot going in 3 down at half-time. Responded well 2nd period the game opening up competitive all over the pitch 2 goals pulled back. ICA Sports always lively on the counter biding their time scoring 2 more goals as play became stretched.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. A few contenders but in the end in came down to two. Hannah Murphy linking up the midfield and attack well passing wide with options available and making some good runs herself to get into scoring positions scoring 2 goals. Ahead of her though is Donna Nicholls, lively right from the first minute looking to get in behind and drive at goal, scoring 2 goals herself clinical and a danger when taking a free-kick.

An enjoyable first county league game to start the season, glad to have caught up with both sides, have no doubt the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership will be highly competitive this season. My thanks to both teams for the team details today always appreciated.

Match Report – Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 8th September

ERWFL Premier Division

A return trip to Peterborough this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier League with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies hosting early leaders Colney Heath Ladies.

The standard within the league improving year on year is highly competitive at this level and rarely disappoints in entertainment. Several sides have recruited well over the summer and could will be intriguing to find out who winds up on top. Both of today’s opponents enjoy a good relationship and support from within the wider club.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving across to join the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) last season having previously been with the East Midlands regional set-up. A strong outfit pushing towards the top of the league they were among the front runners early on before injuries and lack of numbers took their toll towards the end of the season. A need to recruit and strengthen the first team, they have brought in several new additions with the likes of Kayla Dortch, Kimberly Fairweather, Gabrielle Smith, Eleanor Spendelow and Leah Cudone coming in. The first team backed up by a Reserves side playing in a 13 strong Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season. A last gaps goal seeing them lose 3-2 at home to Luton Town Ladies on the opening day. Bounced back with a 3-0 win away to newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies last time out.

Colney Heath Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two league games scoring 17 goals in the process to top the ERWFL Premier Division one of 3 sides still with a 100% record. A great performance in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup last Sunday saw them win 3-1 away to fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. Now entering their 3rd season playing at this level have consolidated well and will be looking to push on. A terrific start last season however they fell away badly losing their manager. Paul Gleeson coming in thing’s began to pick up towards the end of last season, have recruited over the summer too with the likes of Jordan Goddard, Rachel Spendlow, goalkeeper Amy Butler and Samaira Khan joining.

The Branch Bros Stadium, Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground to the northern end of the city easy to get to. Two large grass area with pitches either side of the main pitch overlooked by the bar and clubhouse on entry. A burger van open to serve hot food and drinks. The pitch with a thick covering of grass two small seated stands available either side of the dugouts. A pleasant day a few dark clouds around but no rain forecast keeping the temperature down, the sun bright when it does poke through.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Evie Driscoll-King, Samantha Davies, Kayla Dortch, Bronwyn Mulheron, Chanade Henderson, Gabrielle Smith, Leah Cudone, Katie Steward & Emma Pollard. Subs – Frances Peeling, Alexa Hunter, Kimberly Fairweather, Eleanor Spendelow & Georgia Coulson.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Lucy Hancock, Samantha May, Catalina Costas, Annie Hickey, Kelly Glynn, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver (C), Samiara Khan, Adi Milton, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Mel Godino & Rachel Sherlow.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Four of the 12 sides in the ERWFL Premier Division play in a black and white strip, Royston, St Ives Town and today’s opponents. Peterborough with home advantage wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and black and white hooped socks lining up as Colney Heath wearing an all blue away kit prepare to kick-off the match. Pressure from the hosts straight away forcing Colney Heath back towards their own box Katie Steward in to pinch the ball central sees it run on in behind Emma Pollard giving chase moving away from goal the angle against her as she gets her foot around the ball her attempt wide of the near post.

Emma Pollard looking to head the ball on for Peterborough

Peterborough starting brightly Steward in possession on the right controls well before turning inside to fire a cross in along the six yard box no one attacking it central, goalkeeper Lucy Hancock able to gather at the far post. Christina Freestone on the ball central plays it out wide left for Samaira Khan, 5 goals for the winger since joining the club looks to take the ball on tackled by Peterborough’s Evie Driscoll-King the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly inside the Peterborough half attacker Charlene Moreton coming towards the ball heading it on over the top for Rianne Townsend-Brown she sends it wide to her right with Adi Milton looking to get inside her fullback, strong running into the box, goalkeeper and captain Sarah Hudson out well to close her down makes the blocking save at her feet.

Driscoll-King putting in a good tackle to deny Khan again on the wing sends a great all up the right for Steward to chase, gathering the ball takes it on before wrapping her foot around the ball to launch a cross into the area, Hancock up well to claim it. Both sides looking to turn the play around quickly Milton almost succeeds in playing Townsend-Brown through central with a well flighted diagonal pass, the striker halted however by a raised flag.

Kayla Dortch

Khan stays onside from a free-kick won on the left played forwards the winger squaring a pacey ball along the top of the area finds its way through to Milton far side meets it first time with the outside of her boot the shot in angling away from goal. Peterborough mount a quick attack of their own from front to back the ball through the middle almost has Steward in top of the area but Hancock out well just about does enough to thwart her as her defence recovers to clear the ball.

Catalina Costas holding of Peterborough’s Katie Steward

Chanade Henderson getting hold of the ball in the middle for Peterborough plays a great ball forwards for Steward to attack in behind shoulder to shoulder with full back Catalina Costas the Colney Heath defender doing well to get a toe to the ball before Steward to send it wide of goal, then a controversial decision by the referee in the visitors opinion as goalkeeper Hancock goes out towards the ball is warned not to pick it up but does, Colney Heath complaining it wasn’t a back pass an indirect free-kick awarded against them wide of goal near the edge of the six yard box. A crowded penalty area the intention to smash it across the face of goal the Colney Heath defence charge it down and clear successfully.

Peterborough Northern Star’s Chanade Henderson

An entertaining opening to the match both sides lively, Colney Heath with the slower start coming into it more as captain Sheree Oliver plays the ball forwards to Milton on the right possession retained, a cross lifted into the box, Khan central rising a tall player, can only get a glancing header the ball over at the far post. A delay in play then as a dogs mess is discovered on the pitch, happens at this level now an again. The task of clearing it up usually the home side managers (although I doubt Emma Hayes had this dilemma at Stamford Bridge this afternoon) Dean Steward managing Peterborough armed with a plastic bag clearing up the offending item and play can resume.

The free-kick scheduled to take place nearby as Driscoll-King plays a fantastic ball into the box, Hancock in amongst bodies on the penalty spot with a good punch getting it away. Hancock reacting sharply again moments later as a defensive error puts Leah Cudone in behind on the left of attack into the box the goalkeeper rushing out to gather top of the area. Peterborough upping the tempo attacking with more urgency in the last five minutes get control of the ball inside their opponents half Gabrielle Smith showing fantastic close ball control threading a pass forwards for Cudone playing in in to attack the box central Hancock coming to close her down Cudone looks to place her shot wide of the advancing keeper, not enough however as Hancock throws out and arm to stop the ball.

Hancock quick to set up the counter attack the ball up to Milton a threat on the right plays the ball on for Townsend-Brown in behind, the defence caught static, Hudson comes out towards her top of the area right of the D, Townsend-Brown sending the ball past her as the pair collide, Kayla Dortch back by then on hand can clear the ball if needed by can see it safely behind only just mind. Neither side on top, both looking like they will find the opening goal Peterborough regain possession central Smith finding her pass again to see fullback Samantha May outnumbered left side of the area as Cudone and Pollard burst forwards the shot fired in across goal into the bottom corner, the goal though doesn’t stand the flag raised against the pair.

Rianne Townsend-Brown looking to get in behind the Peterborough defence

Costas has picked up an injury for Colney Heath the full back struggling can’t continue bringing the first change of the match with Rachel Spendlow joining at right back. Peterborough have a corner on the right the delivery short as Cudone spots makes a run towards the ball turning to shoot from 20 yards out her strike over the bar. A mix-up at the back inside the six yard box from the Colney Heath defence sees Cudone latch onto the ball attempting to turn right side to get a shot away the blocking tackle sees the ball cleared falling to Peterborough’s Faith Horner she shoots 25 yards out the ball safely handled straight into Hancock’s midriff.

Colney Heath attack right Milton winning her side a corner kick the delivery in central headed clear Cudone bringing it away left play a quality pass on for Steward breaking forwards right channel, Sherlow back with her lunging in to make the tackle top of the area to take the ball away from the attacker.

GOAL! Half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Peterborough on the attack right side, Driscoll-King having made some good runs forwards previously allowed to go on bringing the ball inside from the top of the area hits it hard sending the ball angling in across the face of goal, finds its way past everyone to nestle into the back of the net 1-0.

Evie Driscoll-King with the opening goal of the game

A few robust tackles have been a feature of the first half, Freestone upended by Smith in the middle sees the Peterborough player warned. Peterborough enjoying the lions share of the attacking play now, Dortch’s defence clearance turning into a great ball forwards Steward after it looks to lay it off inside for Pollard to shoot, Annie Hickey reading it for Colney Heath the defender in to nick the ball and attempt to set up a counter attack, on to Freestone to Milton away on the right squares a cross in ear side Townsend-Brown going for it so too Dortch the defender sliding in to win the challenge inside the box.

Flowing football from Peterborough Henderson with Horner out to Steward right side a brilliant pass long in behind on the diagonal to pick out Cudone nipping into the box left, her first touch taking the ball out from her feet giving Hancock a chance to dive for it, grabbing it into her body Cudone hurdling over her.

GOAL! Out of nothing Colney Heath are back on level terms late in the first half. Milton who has carried a threat all through the first half doing well to win a corner on the right players forwards as Charlene Moreton goes across to take it, a fantastic inswinging delivery high, Hudson up for it near post misses the ball past her finds the underside of the ball to nestle into the back of the net 1-1.

Charlene Moreton scores direct from a corner to level the scores for Colney Heath

The full back have swapped sides for Colney Heath, May over at left back now called into action to make a vital tackle inside the box as the ball is played on through the middle to send Steward away in attack the full back on her shoulder pushing her wide of goal lunging to make the tackle before Steward can unleash a shot.

Katie Steward attacking for Peterborough Samantha May across to defend for Colney Heath

GOAL! The game turned completely on its head then as moments after levelling the scores they break to score and take the lead. The ball left side lifted forwards a miscued defensive clearance seeing the ball fall in behind with Milton quickest on the right side latching onto it taking on the shot early from 25 yards out well struck Hudson with little chance as it flies over her into the back of the net 1-2.

Finding themselves trailing with just a minute of the first half left Peterborough get on the attack good combination play between Driscoll-King and Steward on the right the cross played into the box Pollard right of the D, her effort blocked by Hickey. Peterborough closing the ball down with intensity with the half-time whistle imminent.

GOAL! Winning the ball inside the Colney Heath half their defence pushed up Dortch to Mulheron who plays a great ball forwards for Cudone to gather on the left the striker head down with one intent to get inside and take on the shot lets fly from the top of the area the ball angling in over the keeper into the top corner 2-2. The half-time whistle blows.

Leah Cudone scoring a superb equaliser to make it 2-2 on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

An entertaining first half of football, plenty of action, played at a good pace, chances created, a splash of controversy into the mix. Peterborough started well and created opportunities. Colney Heath coming back into the game Both sides making use of their wide players, Peterborough taking a deserved lead, Colney Heath with a fortunate levelling goal but no doubt about their 2nd a quality strike from Milton, Peterborough responding well to level the scores before the break Cudone with a superb strike to make it 2-2. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.

The sun starting to poke through more towards the end of the first half now bright and facing the goal Peterborough are defending 2nd half as they get the game restarted. Both sides making a change at half-time Kimberly Fairweather on in place of Smith for Peterborough, Melissa Godino replaced Khan in the wing for Colney Heath. Cudone out on the right attacking sends a driven shot in towards the near post the ball held by Hancock closing the angle.

Oliver bringing the ball forwards for Colney Heath up the right into Milton she cuts infield before firing a cross in towards the top of the area met by Moreton her 1st time effort rising towards goal sails over the crossbar. Mulheron picking up the first yellow card of the game for an ungainly tackle on Milton looking to get on 20 yards out on the right. Freestone over the set-piece floated into the area, claimed well by Hudson. A lively start to the 2nd half both sides closing down the ball.

Christina Freestone winning the ball in midfield for Colney Heath

Townsend-Brown caught just offside as Colney Heath play the ball on through the middle. Peterborough a little sloppy with their passes in the middle, Oliver getting hold of it up for Moreton, Mulheron in to win the ball back. Hancock is having an assured performance in goal for Colney Heath takes a confident catch high above her head as Cudone lifts a cross in from the right.

Sheree Oliver playing the ball forwards

A 2nd change for Peterborough with Georgia Coulson coming on for Davies. Peterborough get a corner on the right the delivery in towards the near side punched back to the taker by Hancock, crossed back in dropping in the six yard box, players attacking it none can get a clean strike on the ball, Hickey wining it with a no nonsense clearance. Steward out on the right bursts in behind Hancock coming to meet her one on one Steward jinks left the right attempting to deceive the keeper before trying to shoot across her, Hancock saving once more.

Peterborough enjoying more of the attack more Colney Heath happy to sit ready to hit on the counter. Oliver bringing it out on for Townsend-Brown, Milton the outlet ready to go on the right, Coulson intercepting the pass for Peterborough. Hancock continues to thwart the Peterborough attack again Cudone clever is through into the box looking to take the ball around the keeper, Hancock down to pinch the ball. Pollard lines up a strike from 20 yards her attempt drilled wide. Fairweather comes off for Peterborough on comes Alexa Hunter. Milton off for Colney Heath, Khan returning with Godino moving to the right.

Bronwyn Mulheron

Henderson allowed to travel with the ball 20 yards out goes to pull the trigger Hickey running out to close her down making the block. Into the final 20 minutes the game remains there for the taking. Pollard carries the attack on the right for Peterborough, May holding her up, Cudone joining in support the pair win a corner. The ball in cleared by Hickey, her header falling to Steward 25 yards out does connect with the shot lacks the pace to trouble Hancock.

Kelly Glynn holding off Leah Cudone

Colney Heath’s defence the busier a determination amongst them not to concede, Glynn clearing as Hunter almost feds Pollard into the box making a run left channel. Pollard’s last actin of the game as she comes off now to be replaced by Eleanor Spendelow. Cudone looking the most likely to score as she makes another purposeful run on the right her shot fired in low Hancock down to save the ball loose however in front of her Peterborough slow to follow-up as Colney Heath scramble it away. Cudone taking the ball on to the byline right side lifting a cross in central evading Hancock this time, Spendlow jumping in the middle can’t keep her header down.

Samaira Khan tracking Frances Horner as she brings the ball on for Peterborough

Mulheron sending a fine pass forwards for Steward breaking right of the D takes aim the ball on target can only pick out Hancock back on her line, The game entering the final five minutes, Colney Heath working hard in defence keen to remain unbeaten allow Peterborough to come on. Coulson playing the ball on for Hunter to release Henderson central, Hickey stepping out of the back line to defend for Colney Heath. Another change for Colney Heath, Coulson departing… Frances Peeling on.

Peterborough winning a couple of free-kicks on the right late on Cudone on the first, Hancock claiming. The 2nd taken by Steward with Horner coming for it, Hickey dealing with the threat for the visitors. Moments left Peterborough attacking late on Henderson off a throw left crossing along the top of the area Hunter touching it into the path of the advancing Driscoll-King smashes a ball in towards goal deflected central Spendlow central wrong footed adjusts well to get her head on it turn it back towards goal Hancock across at her left post to save.

Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

The points shared in an entertaining game, all action from start to finish. No more goals added 2nd half but not for want of trying from Peterborough pushed hard in the 2nd half Colney Heath putting in a solid defensive display thwarting them. Little in attack from the visitors in the 2nd 45 did invite pressure but maintain their unbeaten start to the season with a few players out.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award not an easy one once again a few contenders certainly. Adi Milton carrying a threat on the right for Colney Heath especially first half scoring a fantastic goal. Lucy Hancock with a confident display in goal reading the game well. For Peterborough, Evie Driscoll-King with good defensive work at full back getting forwards well to linking with Katie Steward. Edging it though Leah Cudone attacking for Peterborough brings a wealth of experience to the side making forceful and clever runs on and off the ball creating chances and always looking to score. Took her goal beautifully.

An enjoyable trip to Peterborough, the ERWFL Premier Division producing yet another entertaining game full of excitement. Competitive from the 1st minute. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated. 5 games into the season already can’t believe it.

Match Report – Cambridge City Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Wednesday 4th September

FAWNL South East Division One

Derby day and the first midweek match of the season for Women’s Football East making the trip to Ely City FC this Wednesday evening to watch Cambridge City Ladies take on Cambridge United WFC for the first time in the FAWNL.

Cambridge City Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division last season part of a league and cup double to earn promotion to FAWNL South East Division One. The two sides once one before going their separate ways have met several times as Cambridge City rose back up the women’s football pyramid now joining United in the FAWNL. A strong youth set-up within the club their Development side winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season joins the ERWFL Division One South, whilst the club is to boast a 3rd women’s side playing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership.

Joining the FAWNL, Cambridge City Ladies have moved to a new home, Ely City FC whilst they await completion of their new ground at Sawston. A ground their opponents know well having played their as Cambridge Women before linking up with Cambridge United FC. Good facilities a new cinema and restaurant park build next to the spots stadiums situated just off the A10. Have signed goalkeeper Dominika Szary from Newmarket Town Women with Karly Tolentino and Beatrice Fitzsimons also joining. Sofia Castiglione back too after impressing in a handful of game for City before injury saw her out for a long period. Two losses from their opening two matches away to Leyton Orient and at home to Billericay Town Ladies see them without a point. Better in the FAWNL Cup where they won through to the competition proper beating Southern Premier Division side Chichester City Ladies.

A new home too this season for Cambridge United WFC playing at St Neots Town FC, a new base for games and training for both their senior and Development side. Have lost a few players to other clubs over the close season a small squad with a determined attitude. A new beginning they too find themselves without a point on the board a narrow lose conceding in the final minutes of both their opening league and cup encounters. 2 errors costing them away to AFC Wimbledon at the weekend. A local derby to look forwards to is great for women’s football in Cambridge to see two sides playing as high as the 4th tier. Always competitive games against the pair.

The pitch looking well prepared as the lights start to come on, a good atmosphere building a good sized crowd taking shape. A hint of rain in the air day clouds around, a rainbow over the ground prior to kick-off. A breeze cooling things down. The bar and kitchen open hot and cold drinks aswell as pies on offer.

Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Dominika Szary, Amy Reed, Lauren Tomlinson, Becca Fay (C), Ceri Flye, Hannah Bodily, Sofia Castiglione, Charlotte Gillies, Beatrice Fitzsimons, Karly Tolentino & Megan Tonks. Subs – Tee Mhunduru, Shannon Shaw, Robyn Phillips, Laura Mills, & Georgia Day.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Abi Davies, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Emma Jenkins, Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Kelley Blanchflower & Mollie Coupar. Subs – Liz Pamplin, Verity Crook, Chloe Armstrong, Albany Hodgson & Chloe Smith.

As per usual with these affairs where we have two clubs similarly named they become City and United from now on. It’s City to get the derby match underway, wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks. United wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves black shorts and socks. City playing the ball back to there defence United close down quickly to put pressure on the ball, rewarded as Amber Cantwell gets hold of possession on halfway and drives through the middle with the ball reaching the area before Ceri Flye partnering captain Becca Fay in defence puts in the challenge the ball ending up safely gathered by Dominika Szary.

GOAL! An early break through from United the pressing game continuing Cantwell again winning it central sending the pass on for striker Kelley Blanchflower she sees fellow attacker Mollie Coupar breaking away into the left channel rolls the ball into her path Coupar taking it on into the box left of goal closing in on the six yard box smashes a shot in under the keeper at the near post 0-1.

Mollie Coupar pressing Amy Reed for possession of the ball

United have started well playing a high tempo, up for the game Blanchflower spreading play out wide right for Amy Howlett making her first appearance for United this season pushes on with the ball into the corner, tackled by full back Lauren Tomlinson to win the ball back for City. The hosts making progress wide left Karly Tolentino looking to create a shot from distance falling wide of the mark.

United bring the ball out Blanchflower up ended wide left inside the City half winning a free-kick. Cantwell over the ball, striking the two player wall deflected left Cantwell able to run onto it to fling a cross into the area, City struggling to clear as United pressure well. Flye busy at the heart of the defence doing well against Blanchflower as the United striker battles her way into the area, back with Szary looks to set up a counter, Charlotte Crisp breaking it up for United.

Kelley Blanchflower with Cambridge City ladies captain Becca Fay

Faith Hewitt playing the ball on up the left for United with Blanchflower providing the passing option, Flye going with her tackling to play the ball out for a throw. Crisp coming over to provide support on that side as Blanchflower controls from the throw the ball passed across the top of the City area, Cantwell there looking to get into a shooting position taking the ball wide pressed by Fay the shot miscued. United looking lively Carrie Bennett with the ball on for Hewitt left the ball high across the face of goal, picked up by Coupar far side another ball in across the face of goal, Szary able to lay claim to the 3rd attempt.

City slow to settle United having given them little time on the ball, Sofia Castiglione on the ball in midfield looks t take players on doing well rides two tackles making ground before releasing Charlotte Gillies on the right, the winger’s ball into the area too close to the keeper at the near post Savannah Smith handling comfortably. City starting to find a foothold in the game Amy Reed winning it at the back an attack launched the ball forwards Megan Tonks with the lay off right into Beatrice Fitzsimons making a central run, her stab forwards almost finding it’s way through into the area for Tolentino cut out by the United defence.

The game setting down somewhat, both sides wasting passes as they try to maintain a high tempo move the ball quickly no one wanting to keep possession slow things down, lively certainly has a derby feel about it.

GOAL! 22 minutes played and City get themselves back on level terms, a fantastic goal from Tonks, the City striker having a fantastic season with the Development side scoring 32 goals from 18 appearances on their way to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season. Out wide left for City holding onto the ball strong gets inside her marker towards the top corner of the area striking the ball superbly the flight taking it across goal over the keeper into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

Megan Tonks up to win the header for Cambridge City Ladies

United get forwards a free-kick awarded on the left Cantwell to play the ball in, headed clear inside the box central Crisp moving to intercept the loose ball latching onto the shot hit hard but wide of the goal from 25 yards out. Gillies looks to take on Bennett as she attacks right the United full back getting back at her to win the ball back before the cross can be made. United are away on the right Howlett with Coupar ahead of her, Fay drawn out of the middle to assist Tomlinson in the corner Coupar does well to get the ball back up the line to Howlett she passes central Crisp not afraid to have a crack from distance meeting it once again 30 yards the strike brushes the roof of the net on its way over.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp

Passes continue to go astray starting to get a little scrappy, niggly challenges coming it, Cantwell on the end of a couple of the more robust ones. A driving shot from Castiglione from 30 yards out following good work from Tolentino on the left fall wide of goal. Tolentino showing great close ball control on the left high up the pitch twisting left then right looking to come inside before shifting and getting the ball in behind to cross flashed in Tonks gets something on it near post the ball brushing the chest of a defender for a moment looks like it could be an unfortunate own goal as it goes on across goal, Smith reacting well getting down to stop it.

Cambridge City Ladies, Karly Tolentino

Castiglione bringing the ball on once more plays a good diagonal ball on for Gillies bursting on right side of the area, Bennett putting in the tackle playing the ball behind for a corner. The ball in towards the top of the area from the right cleared by Cantwell. Look to break the ball on down the right a strong challenge from Tomlinson seeing United awarded a free-kick in the corner. A good delivery in towards the near post Szary doing well for City up to make a confident claim.

The tackles showing a bit more bite late in the first half Emma Jenkins partnering captain Kayleigh-Anne Burt in central defence this evening bringing the ball out from the ball brought down unceremoniously. Fitzsimons getting a warning from referee Chris Abbott. Moments later Cantwell is floored by Tomlinson as the United midfielder looks to break from a City free-kick, the full back shown the first yellow card of the game. Both benches not happy with decisions the game getting feisty late in the half a late throw on the left high for United played inside across the top of the area Blanchflower looking to see it across her body 20 yards out strikes it on the half volley, the ball already spinning the shot swerving away from goal behind the last action of the first half.

Half-time Cambridge City Ladies 1-1 Cambridge United WFC

A good first half in the Cambridge derby, United making a fast start bright snapping into challenges and pressing City all over the pitch looking sharp taking an early lead. City taking a little time to settle, United’s intent slowing City able to get back into it get forwards Tonks with a superb strike to level the scores. Scrappy at times with passes rushed going astray, the half ending on and even note could go either way 2nd half.

United to get the 2nd half underway, neither side making a change. The visitors going long to the left with Coupar on the move, strong holding onto the ball getting into a shooting position fires over the top from 25 yards out.

GOAL! City get forwards to take the lead early in the 2nd, bodies forwards as they attack possession on the left Tolentino playing the ball into the middle gathered by Fitzsimons who bursts on towards the area allowed to go on, goes to shoot a miscue the ball turns into a brilliant assist angled wide and on into the path of Tonks right of goal, the striker turning and sending a low ball past Smith before she can adjust 2-1.

GOAL! All action at the start of the 2nd half as United get up the other end and draw level again almost straight away. Attacking right Howlett’s pass on for Coupar brings United a throw deep in City territory, put on into Blanchflower she turns and heads into the area close to the byline fires a ball in towards goal Szary down to it, a touch but escapes her grasp with Coupar on top of her bundling it over the line to score her 2nd of the match 2-2.

The game has the early intensity back is a derby game, both sides feeling the game is there to win. United winning a corner right side the ball in towards the top of the area Burt running in to met it near post lifting her shot over. Both keepers called into action running out of there areas to clear first Szary then her kick forwards dealt with by Smith. Passes rushed the tempo remains high no one settling on the ball. City make the first change of the game Laura Mills coming on for Gillies going out to the right.

Cambridge City Ladies, Lauren Tomlinson

The substitution injecting some urgency into City’s attacking play the ball spread wide to Mills has Tonks out wide with her the ball crossed into the United box cleared, Reed getting forwards onto the loose ball shoots from distance the ball stopped in the six yard by her opposing right back Davies, a good first touch to bring the ball safely under control.

Cantwell with a tame effort that rolls safely through to Szary who sets up Mills on the counter pace taking it on the diagonal ball fired into the area read by Smith coming out to collect. city make a 2nd substitution 2 goals for Tonks her work done for the night she is replaced in attack by Shannon Shaw. The breeze starting to pick up. Cantwell will feel the aftermath of this game as she is bundled to the ground yet again, not deterred however.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amber Cantwell

United make their first change of the match in attack Blanchflower coming off to be replaced by Chloe Smith. Bodily plays a pass long on for Mills getting on down the right keeping wide well her cross into the box dangerous chested down towards goal by a defender for a moment looks like it might be an own goal gasps from the crowd, by Smith down quickly has it save pulled into her body.Mills adding impetus to the City attack the game wide open entering the final 15 minutes could go either way still.

United getting some momentum themselves Coupar with Hewitt, Howlett found on the right the ball in towards the top of the area fired in near post cut out by the City defence. Tomlinson strong on the ball as she battles to bring it forwards. Play from one end to the other Mills crossing from the right United heading the ball clear launching a counter attack, Crisp on for Smith plays the ball to Howlett right takes it inside into the box City conceding the corner.

Into the last 3 minutes of the match the ball in from the right cleared long, Davies picking it up for United lifts a high ball back into the area difficult for Szary to judge back on her line dropping late catches by spills for another corner. City dealing confidently Fay determined on the ball carrying it out from the back over halfway but cleared by United City with a throw left Tomlinson’s bionic arms sending it long into towards the top of the area, United winning the header attempt to counter Bodily breaking it up.

City mounting one last attack and come very close to claiming the 3 points late on Fitzsimons seeing the ball into her feet outside the United area right off a throw turns and unleashes a shot Smith diving to her left thankful to see the ball run narrowly wide of the post, City with a free-kick on halfway Castiglione to play it up into the United area, Burt dealing with it the final whistle blows.

Full time Cambridge City Ladies 2-2 Cambridge United WFC

Honours even in the first Cambridge derby of the season, on the whole a fair result the points shared and both getting off the mark at last will be a relief. City making a slow start coming back to level after conceding in the opening minutes. Taking the lead early in the 2nd period only to concede straight away. A good watch the crowd entertained, often scrappy niggly at times the temp good what you’d expect from a derby match. Both sides will feel they could have won it and could well have gone either way.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award. Contenders from both sides, Ceri Flye doing a some great defensive work for City in the heart of defence. Sofia Castiglione too in midfield. Megan Tonks in attack scoring a great first goal levelling the scores then putting them into the lead early 2nd half. Mollie Coupar giving United the early advantage. Kelley Blanchflower with some great runs linking up the midfield and attack. Amber Cantwell edging it for me overall getting about the pitch great first touches and often a the heart of the action.

Said I wouldn’t get up at 4am and write this but I can’t sleep with a game still rattling around the brain. An entertaining game if scrappy at times the two sides enjoying a good rivalry that will only grow and in doing so increase the interest for the women’s game in the county. Updated with pictures for last evenings game courtesy of Gary Reed. Grateful to be able to use them Gary is a tremendous supporter of the women’s game and it’s a pleasure to feature his pictures.

Match Report – Riverside Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday 1st September

Women’s FA Cup Preliminary Round

Cup action this Sunday on Women’s Football East, from the Preliminary Round of this season’s Women’s FA Cup and an opportunity to see two sides I haven’t seen play in a while as Peterborough based side, Riverside Ladies take on Bungay Town Ladies from Suffolk.

The Women’s FA Cup seeing more entries than ever as the game continues to grow across the country, an extra Preliminary Round already played there are 98 ties taking place this Sunday. Plenty of intriguing match ups too hard to settle on one always throws up some interesting ties.

Has been a long time indeed since I last saw Riverside Ladies play getting on for 4 years I think. The club enjoying a rapid rise seeing them moving up to the East Midlands regional set-up and out of Women’s Football East’s coverage (can only do so much). Peterborough a hotbed for women’s football with several talented sides in the area, Riverside saw players leaving sometimes poached. Struggling dropped back into the Cambridgeshire Championship a rebuilding process, winning promotion back the the Premiership once again finished bottom as the team was hit once again, now rebuilding again as they prepare for another season in the Premiership the league strengthened now up to 13 sides will be a competitive league. Riverside have a strong youth set-up with U18s ready to step up to the senior side and U15 & U14 that bode well for future development. This Riverside’s first game of the season.

Bungay Town Ladies know the feeling of having their side raided for talent have often found themselves having to rebuild themselves. Playing in Norfolk Division One did the double just two season’s ago, last season proving more difficult with the squad suffering losses. Didn’t get to see them play last season much to my disappointment. Jody Wells now assisting manager Graham Purling have assembled a decent squad as they prepare for the new season in Norfolk, like the Cambridgeshire Premiership, Division One seeing an increase in size to 11 as new sides enter the league. Good results in pre-season 5 wins from 5 including a 2-1 win away to Northamptonshire side Corby Town Ladies in the extra Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup.

The venue for today the Queens Park Pavilion Playing Fields, in Yaxley south of Peterborough itself. A large side featuring two full sized and several youth sized grass patches. Plenty of parking the changing room block before the playing area itself. The surface dry offering plenty of width. Nowhere near as hot as last weekend temperatures down to 20 degrees a fair bit of cloud around some dark, warm when the sun could break through a breeze blowing, pleasant.

Riverside Ladies starting XI – Maxine Wren, Amelia Roberts, Abigail Baker, Elizabeth Walker, Tia Vacca (C), Abigail Baker, Jess Hill, Rachel Burbridge, Gabija Pavlova, Ines Monteiro & Kerry Camwell. Subs – Ella Gaston & Jodie Skells.

Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Erin Galer, Leah Shephard, Charlotte Power (C), Katie Walker, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Shannon Dade, Nicola Hazell, Leanne Smith & Imogen McGregor. Subs – Teodora Ilie, Samantha Penman, Tracey Livingstone & Lindsey Adams.

Two sides playing in today’s tie who are used to roll on roll off substitutes, not so in the Women’s FA Cup with only 3 substitutes allowed in regular play. Riverside starting with the bare 11 have one substitute not available for kick-off another injured and only to be risked in necessary. Bungay able to name 4 substitutes the visitors have the kick-off first half wearing and all away kit with white trim. Riverside playing on purple coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. The hosts quick to charge the ball down Ines Monteiro charging it down in the centre taking the ball on through the middle stopped at the top of the area as Bungay’s centrebacks close the door. Bungay then caught offside trying to break with Riverside playing a high line.

Leanne Smith getting control of the ball in the centre of the park for Bungay spreads play out to Nicola Hazell breaking into space on the left wing, taking the ball on up the line is tackled by Abigail Baker the ball out for a throw in as she attempts to cut inside. A long throw put in towards the edge of the area knocked down latched onto by Imogen McGregor her snap shot left of the D dragged wide of the near post. Rachel Burbridge puts the ball on over the top for Riverside, Monteiro looking to peel away in behind the full back just a little too early flagged offside.

Rachel Burbridge winning the ball for Riverside

Bungay quick to turn play around as Hazell picks up possession on the left provides the ball for Smith this time coming on through the middle put on for McGregor racing into the box, Maxine Wren able to get hold of it first keeping goal for Riverside. Bungay are looking lively early on as they push on through the middle, Selina Rowland on for Smith up to McGregor top of the area looks to play in Shannon Dade getting forwards on the right her shot taking a deflection seeing a corner awarded. The ball in deep touched on safely into Wren’s gloves she looks to set up an attack Monteiro after ball fed into the left channel, Erin Galer defending for Bungay, the counter attack on played up to Dade right she drives forwards before unleashing a shot, Wren down safely gathering.

GOAL! Play compacted at times in the centre of the pitch this allows Bungay to spring away in attack the pass through for Dade she is away taking it in right of goal 25 yards out lets fly with a shot similar to her effort moments ago only this time she puts the ball wide of the keeper into the bottom corner 0-1. 7 minutes played.

An early lead for Bungay the hosts look for an immediate response, a good run forwards from full back Amelia Roberts gets her in behind to cross inside the area wrong footing the defence she looks to square the ball into the six yard box, too close to the goalkeeper as Joanne Pipe across to her near post claims the ball. Riverside continue to play a risky high line in defence catching Bungay offside almost turn it to their advantage as defender Elizabeth from just over halfway plays a inviting high ball in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence not dealing with it on the bounce Monteiro looks to be in the bounce her undoing too however as she can’t get her foot over the ball for a clean strike.

Amelia Roberts on the attack for Riverside Ladies

Charnelle Riggall back playing again after being out for a long spell with the dreaded ACL in the middle today for Bungay puts a fantastic ball on for Hazell to chase puts a shot in across goal that is cleared by Riverside’s captain Tia Vacca. Bungay continue to press getting joy on both flanks Dade flashing another strike across the face of goal.

GOAL! Bungay double their advantage in 15 minutes winning a corner on the right, the delivery too high for the keeper to claim near post dropping into a congested 6 yard box several players go for it the ball stabbed home, Leanne Smith I think with the final touch 0-2.

Riverside attack left Gabija Pavlova with great ball control taking the ball on lacks support as she is closed down. Bungay are winning the battle in midfield Riggall and Rowland with Smith prepared to bomb on, McGregor played tries to beat the keeper with a lobbed shot from 30 yards out the effort falling wide. Wren doing well for Riverside in the next Bungay attack coming out towards the top of her area with a good punch on the ball to deny McGregor a chance as Dade crosses from the right. Wren with more heroics in goal to deny Hazell a goal as she cuts inside from the left to have a strike inside the area Riverside’s keeper saving with her legs.

Charnelle Riggall playing the ball for Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay getting in behind as Riverside are caught up the pitch playing a good line at times catching their opponents offside on three or four occasions, Bungay are able to come on at will however McGregor providing some good runs in attack, Hazell and Dade left and right ready to go. McGregor attempting to lob the keeper once more sees another effort fall wide of the mark. Smith gets forwards into an attacking position as Hazell holds onto possession left side looking to get inside to shoot, Smith taking on the shot as the ball rolls lose a powerful shot has Wren diving the ball narrowly wide of her right post.

GOAL! Smith sees Bungay into a 3 nil lead, the ball won somewhat painfully by Rowland in the middle of the park is put on into the path of Smith breaking forwards right she sends her shot wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-3. 25 minutes played.

Monteiro chases down a ball put into the right channel cutting in towards the top of the area the Bungay defence converge closed down she lays it off to Kerry Camwell a yard away, she hits it hard, Bungay captain Charlotte Power turning to block. The ball not clear out left side a shot comes in from distance wide of the post. On the counter Bungay look a constant threat Smith through the middle, McGregor ahead of head, the latter away in attack is forced wide of goal by Vacca still manages to squeeze a shot in on the angle rising taken down well by Wren.

GOAL! Bungay are creating the majority of the chances and as Power brings the ball out from the ball unchallenged they add a 4th the pass on for McGregor in attack the drives on with it forced out wide again nevertheless the cross finds its way unopposed across the six yard box and Smith is there unmarked to bring up her hat-trick from close range 0-4.

GOAL! Moments later it 5, Bungay with no effort easily turning defence into attack burst forwards the ball fed on to McGregor the young striker having come close with a number of chances gets her goal, moving right of goal, her shot taking a deflection inside the area off the defender attempting to block, sending it beyond the keeper into the back of the net. 0-5.

Katie Walker defends at the back for Bungay following a ball headed on from Camwell that has Monteiro interested as she breaks into the area the defender getting the ball back to Pipe in goal. Riggall plays the ball up to Hazell left side she sends an inviting ball in across the face of goal McGregor can’t get a touch far post, Dade in behind does her shot in saved well be Wren moving across her goal.

GOAL! Bungay are on top no doubt about it as a 6th goal is recorded, McGregor running clear in behind no-one goes with her has time to way up her options, pick a spot Wren exposed by her defence can do little about it as the ball is placed wide of her and into the back of the goal from the top of the area 0-6.

What follows is brutal (look away now).

GOAL! In quick succession Bungay add not 1, but 3 goals to run rampant at half-time. Smith scoring her 4th of the match as she gets on to support McGregor in attack the strike making a nuisance of herself on the ball not challenged as she takes the ball out to the left, cuts it back into Smith top of the box she sends a looping shot up over the keeper to score 0-7.

Leanne Smith amongst the goals for Bungay Town Ladies in the 1st half

GOAL! Smith nets for a 5th time moments later Riverside losing their discipline totally not tracking her as she runs in behind with ease left of goal six yards out able to come back in across goal and pick her spot to slot home 0-8.

GOAL! Rowland gets in on the goal scoring for Bungay as they hammer home an already insurmountable advantage. Catching the defence static the midfielder is allowed to go on a natural goalscorer she gives the keeper no chance as she smashes the ball past her to score 0-9.

Pipe forced into a late save at the close of the first half as Jess Hill from 25 yards out drives a low strike in towards goal.

Half-time Riverside Ladies 0-9 Bungay Town Ladies

Bungay in complete control a flurry of late goal making the task before Riverside impossible 9-0 down at half-time. The away side have been in control from start to finish getting players forwards at will the advantage in having played 6 games more than Riverside showing. The hosts shell shocked letting the scoreline get out of control a difficult 2nd half looms, what can be said. Got to go back to square on start all over again and try to build some positives.

Riverside to kick-off the 2nd half. Bungay with a triple change, with Teo Ilie, Samantha Penman and Tracey Livingstone coming on for Riggall, Dade and Smith. Pavlova has come into a more central defensive midfield position for Riverside as they get the ball rolling. McGregor looks to get away in attack on the right, Vacca does well keeping with her to force her to attempt the cross in towards the top of the area then steps up well to leave her offside as the ball is returned.

GOAL! Far from the start to the 2nd half Riverside would have wanted as they concede early, Livingstone looking to get away left inside the area winning a corner. Is a fantastic ball played in towards the top of the area by Bungay with Rowland rising unopposed left of the D, she plants her header across goal into the far corner for her 2nd of the game 0-10.

Bungay Town Ladies, Selina Rowland

GOAL! This game can be brutal at times an early goal 2nd half for Bungay quickly becomes 2 as they score an 11th. The ball fed out to the right sees Samantha Penman newly arrived to the action away to take the ball on into the area closing in on the six yard box ways up her options spots Livingstone running in far post squares the ball, no one with her Livingstone scores with a simple tap in 0-11.

Riverside down to 10 as Camwell receives treatment. Vacca with some fantastic defending to stop Livingstone top of the area as the cross is swung in from the right. Camwell able to return. A quieter spell, much needed Riverside have been under the cosh but have had fleeting moments, they look like a side right at the start of pre-season the individual skill is visible but the team play needs alot of work. Hazell gets hold of the ball on the left whips a shot in towards goal for Bungay isn’t far over.

GOAL! Bungay add to their scoreline and this goal is started and finished by Rowland to bring up her hat-trick albeit via an fortunate take from a misplaced goalkick, falling straight to the midfielder 30 yards out on the right she sends it on down the line for Penman ahead of her down the line Penman crosses the ball well, into the top of the area and who should be there but none other than Rowland, doesn’t get a clean connect on the ball but that works to her favours as the ball runs wide of the keeper into the back of the net 0-12.

Glimpses of what they can do from Riverside, Pavlova in the middle breaking the attack up much better, Hill on the ball out to Roberts getting forwards on the right sending a great cross in near post Camwell getting in front of her defender with a great turn and hit firing over. Riverside are ready to make a change Walker coming off, as Ella Gaston enters the field.

Riverside Ladies, Gabija Pavlova

Bungay getting forwards a corner won on the left the delivery into the six yard box a shot blocked a pointblank range as Livingstone shoots inside the six yard box. Deflected out to Penman right she fires a ball back across the face of goal McGregor flinging herself forwards can’t get a touch. The ball still in play gather by Hazell on the left wing she fires over frustratingly.

Ella Gaston looking to get forwards for Riverside Ladies

GOAL! Hazell gets her chance however moments later as Bungay are awarded a penalty, no doubt as Penman is tripped inside the box. Hazell placing the ball on the spot, goes for power hitting the ball hard rising is over Wren has no chance 0-13.

Nicola Hazell smashes the ball in from the penalty spot

Wren saving soon after as Livingstone scuffs a shot inside the box having been fed in by Ilie. Head naturally have dropped Riverside finding it tough going, Wren spurring then on they know they have been soundly beaten smiles are good to see, keep going. A corner flung in from the left for Bungay Livingstone with the stooping header far post Wren behind holding onto the ball. Ilie looks to combine with McGregor and Penman on the right, Vacca and Heagren doing well in defence get the ball away for Riverside.

Tia Vacca on the ball for Riverside Ladies

Wren with another save as Rowland moving out to the left plays it through fro Livingstone in the box McGregor close by feeds her the ball, Wren saving at close range going to ground.

GOAL! Brutal for Riverside as they concede another very unfortunate too, a back pass played to Wren she goes to clear inside her area her kick seeing the ball spin straight up into the air. Livingstone closing in alive to it pressure the striker sees the ball on into the back of the net as Wren is hurt colliding with the post 0-14.

Their keeper up but injured Wren is hobbling maintaining good spirits. Hill getting back tracks back well to slide in and deny McGregor as she shoots inside the area the ball out behind for a corner on the right.

GOAL! The goals keep coming for Bungay taken short the cross coming in for McGregor positioned top of the box right side she lashes a shot in towards goal, Wren unsighted by a defender attempting to block in front of her both miss the ball finding its way in 0-15.

Imogen McGregor

Riverside keep battling away are in good spirits despite the scoreline, can do little else might aswell be positive, Wren can hardly move in goal now having taken a knock, Livingstone played in by McGregor, Baker stays with her sliding in to make the tackle the ball loose Hazell latches onto the shot blasting over, it just won’t happen from open play for her today. Penman sending a shot wide across goal in the closing moments.

Full time Riverside Ladies 0-15 Bungay Town Ladies

A brutal scoreline for Riverside as Bungay Town Ladies advance in the Women’s FA Cup. Out performed their opponents but can only beat what’s in front of them. In good form in pre-season and far advanced than Riverside it showed as they cruised to victory and into the hat for the draw for the next round of the competition where they will have their fingers crossed for a home draw for a change having played 8 out of their previous FA Cup matches away from home with long trips to Essex and Northamptonshire amongst those. Played well, moved the ball and looked sharper. Fair play to Riverside kept going did improve 2nd half despite conceding better passages of play, a result to forget no doubt so it doesn’t help that some bloke from Norfolk turned up to write about it. Got to put it to bed move on can see the talent, this result will hit the belief but it’s just one game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Basically I’m going to discount the last hour of the match and focus on the opening 30 minutes. Early on Bungay got on top in midfield Charnelle Riggall and Selina Rowland winning the ball well, the driving runs and forwards passes of Leanne Smith making a huge difference plus 5 goals to her name giving her today’s award.

These reports are hard to write, credit where credits due, Bungay played superbly but they themselves would admit they’d rather win a tight game 2-1. It is what it is however. I know Riverside can play better, they have featured in one of my favourite games on the old Supporting Women’s Football Blog afterall. Wishing both well for the new season ahead and thanks for the team sheets as ever.

Match Report – Stevenage FC Women v Yeovil Town Women

Sunday 25th August

FAWNL Cup Determining Round

A trip down to Letchworth this Sunday for a match form the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup, South East Division One side Stevenage FC Women taking on Yeovil Town Women from the Southern Premier Division.

The Determining Round now a traditional part of the FAWNL calendar the sides from all six divisions drawn against each other with the winning sides going on to compete for the FAWNL Cup itself the losing sides entering the Plate competition.

The draw throwing up many intriguing ties right across the country, can be hard to chose one but settled on this one early on.

Stevenage have established themselves within the FAWNL, now linking up with the Stevenage FC Foundation the club has changed name from Stevenage Ladies to Stevenage FC Women to reflect the growing trend within the sport. An large influx of new signings for both the 1st and Development team as the club looks to push on. Amongst the newcomers joining are Lisa Nixon from Luton Town Ladies and striker Jenny Nagle from AFC Wimbledon Ladies. A goal conceded in the 88th minute last Sunday saw Stevenage lose their opening day fixture 2-1 to Actonians Ladies.

A new beginning to of sorts for Yeovil Town too, albeit one they would have preferred to be somewhere else. One of the founding members of an all professional FAWSL the club struggled to find investment and that brought difficulties that impacted upon their season finishing bottom. An application to join the Championship turned down by the FA the club were relegated back to the FAWNL. Since then investment has come in with Adam Murry becoming the clubs new owner. Re-branded too as Yeovil Town Women. A brighter outlook awaits a positive future for a club that has always been a committed force to women’s football in the South West. Always enjoyed my trips down to Somerset to watch them in my FAWSL supporting days. The squad has seen a few departures but experience has been added with the likes of Dan Carlton and Sarah Wiltshire who returns to Yeovil after playing for Tottenham Hotspur Women. Top the Southern Premier Division after the opening fixtures last Sunday winning 9-0 away to the newly created Hounslow Women.

The County Ground, Letchworth the venue for today’s game, the home of the Hertfordshire FA, Stevenage’s 1st team will be playing their home matches there this season. The ground undergoing development, first off a brand new 3G playing surface and surround. Alot of rubber laid in it’s construction. A new bar and clubhouse layout too with plenty of potential for more improvements to come. A blisteringly hot August bank Holiday Sunday, 30 plus degrees a blue sky the sun bright, the 3G pitch only adding to the temperature. I’m wearing shorts and I only do that if I absolutely have too! Enjoying it while it lasts however.

Stevenage FC Women starting XI – Hannah Vandersluis, Kristi Burling, Leah Dunnage, Dominique Godbeer, Amy Notschild, Nicole Dunbar, Cara Breckenridge, Lisa Dixon, Amy Makewell (C), Louise Godden & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Te’a Oldroyd, Hayley Wood-Thompson & Mickie Palfreman.

Yeovil Town Women starting XI – Beth Howard, Harriet Lambe, Rebecca Halford, Thierry-Jo Gauvain, Jodie Chubb, Annie Heatherson (C), Dan Carlton, Kelly Aldridge, Sarah Wiltshire, Megan Wood & Meesha Dudley-Jones. Subs – Elena Pearce, Charlotte Buxton, Alexis Bussell, Maya Ridge & Rosie Kirby.

It’s Yeovil wearing an all yellow away kit to get the match underway kicking off 1st half. Stevenage lined up opposite wearing white and pale red vertical striped shirts, red shorts and socks. The hosts with a few players unavailable, 5 new signings in today’s squad with, Lisa Nixon, Nicole Dunbar, Leah Dunnage and Louise Godden all starting, Mickie Palfremian on the bench. Stevenage press straight away forcing Yeovil to play the ball back to their defence, played forwards into Yeovil captain Annie Heatherson on halfway she plays a superb long pass out to Sarah Wiltshire over on the left she sends it on through the middle looking to pick out Kelly Aldridge making a run, Hannah Vandersluis with a good starting position top of her area able to gather the ball first.

Nixon gets hold of the ball in midfield for Stevenage picks out Dunnage bursting on down the left win looks to take the ball infield his clipped and brought down by Yeovil full back Rebecca Halford a free-kick awarded just outside the area despite her protests. Nixon over it players forwards she squares it towards Godden in a central position she opens up her body attempting to slip it on for Dunnage, Heatherson having read the move tracking Dunnage back on her to put in the tackle regain possession outside the six yard box.

Yeovil counter attack rapidly the ball taken out wide right a cross flung into the area headed out for a throw. Dan Carlton picks the ball up from the throw right travels infield 30 yards out a one two made with Heatherson, Carlton strikes the ball runs wide of the Stevenage goal. Yeovil have quickly settled winning the ball high play turned around quickly a pass put into the feet of Megan Wood right of goal strikes a low shot in towards goal Vandersluis diving is beaten the ball cannoning off the base of the post.

Yeovil’s Rebecca Halford with Stevenage’s Louise Godden

Dunnage with a heavy impact with the surface as she brings the ball out for defence allows Yeovil in behind, Meesha Dudley-Jones sending a high cross into the area Vandersluis making a confident claim. Yeovil’s attacking players harassing the Stevenage defence keep the pressure on. Space opens up on the right for full back Halford to run into given the ball cuts it into Aldridge top of the box her touch taking the ball on into the area ,Dominique Godbeer stays on her shoulder to clear for Stevenage.

Twisting and turning on the ball outside the area left of goal Wiltshire sets herself to shoot, Godbeer backing off gives herself time to get into position to block the effort. The danger not cleared a 2nd shot made left of the D driven in low Vandersluis down low to her right saves pushing the ball behind for a corner. A good delivery from the left in high Aldridge up inside the box towards the back post heading the ball into the ground goes after the loose ball herself a stab with her boot deflecting it goalwards rising a smart save from Vandersluis.

Kelly Aldridge making the tackle

Is very hot out there the sun beating down. Yeovil despite that are looking sharp at the start of the game continue to attack another corner won left swept into the area falling invitingly inside the six yard box a Stevenage boot making vital contact to launch clear. Aldridge receiving the ball central 25 yards out from goal attempt to play Wiltshire in behind cutting in from the left, Vandersluis sliding in sending up a cloud of rubber balls doing enough to put the attacker off.

Stevenage attacks rare Nicole Emmings leading the line having very little to feed on, Godden getting up in support when she can, an attack broken up the ball cleared up to Heatherson sees Dudley-Jones moving away into space on the right the pass on the money taken in her stride Dudley-Jones bares down on goal shooting low near post saved by Vandersluis.

Godden a willing runner given half a chance for Stevenage, captain Amy Makewell playing the ball on through the middle she goes after it, Jodie Chubb dealing with the threat comfortably for Yeovil in the centre of defence playing it back to goalkeeper Beth Howard, Godden stays alert the kick out striking her inside the six yard box could have gone anywhere, the rebound however favouring Howard coming straight back at her to get hold of.

Stevenage’s Lisa Nixon

Harriet Lambe at left back for Yeovil plays the ball up field Wiltshire with support for Dudley-Jones left side outside the box, lays the ball back to Dudley-Jones hits it well enough low in towards goal straight at Vandersluis however. 20 minutes played. Yeovil are getting closer Wiltshire has the ball glued to her feet as she jinks and twists avoiding challenges on the left outside the box eventually making room for a shot her looping ball striking the crossbar.

GOAL! The pressure Yeovil have applied eventually tells as they open the scoring. Aldridge linking up with Wiltshire on the left in attack combination play seeing the ball fired into the area blocked Aldridge back to Wiltshire she squares it to Heatherson central her shot flying in past the diving keeper 0-1.

Yeovil Town Women captain, Annie Heatherson with the opening goal

Time for drinks, a break in play called. Stevenage make a change, Hayley Wood-Thompson on for Dunnage. Stevenage look to get on the offensive from the restart the ball played into the left channel, Godden after it, Thierry-Jo Gauvain going back with her tackling and winning the ball in the corner. Stevenage keep the ball alive in the final third players up a set-piece lifted into the area the ball knocked down to the top of the area, Nixon top of the D gets her foot up over the top of the ball to strike a shot back in Chubb blocking for Yeovil.

Wiltshire lines up a shot from distance the strike tipped up over the bar by Vandersluis. A corner on the left defended by Dunnage at the near post. Stevenage can’t break Heatherson supported by Carlton winning the midfield battle. Wiltshire drifting into a central position plays a great ball on for Dudley-Jones away on the left she lifts a cross into the far post, Wood getting a toe on it lifts it over, the flag up against her.

Yeovil Town Women’s Thierry-Jo Gauvain

Makewell looks to play Godden away down the left in attack for Stevenage Gauvain pacey back to defend against her sets up the counter attack the ball through the middle into the feet of Wiltshire outside the area left side no power behind the shot comfortably caught by Vandersluis. Wood away right side into the box under challenge gets a shot away saved Aldridge central attempts to score, a glove from the keeper puts it wide for a corner. Stevenage struggle to clear their lies Yeovil all over them Carlton gets a shot away from distance lacks power Vandersluis down to gather. The Stevenage keeper very busy making another double save as the ball is struck at close range.

GOAL! Yeovil have a 2nd goal and it’s a great move from back to front, Heatherson on the ball deep her pass out long for Wiltshire left her diagonal ball sending Dudley-Jones through on goal, central strikes it early the shot driven n past the diving goalkeeper 0-2.

GOAL! Two quickly becomes three! Yeovil awarded a penalty as Aldridge pressing into the area left of goal is upended. Wiltshire placing the ball on the spot a well taken penalty opening up her body to lift the ball wide of the keeper to score 0-3.

Sarah Wiltshire scoring from the penalty spot.

A hammer blow for Stevenage they get a free-kick up the other end wide left as Burling breaks forwards trying to link with Godden. Nixon to play the ball into the top of the area, Burling attempting to flick on can’t connect as Yeovil see it safely into the gloves of their keeper. Wiltshire remains a threat out wide or cutting inside no one can stay with her, free in behind Vandersluis takes a risk sliding in well outside her box the ball spinning in behind Wiltshire keeps her footing after it the angle against her as she is closed down fires her shot across the empty goal.

Burling with another foray forwards for Stevenage cuts inside the ball defended loose Nixon latches onto it 30 yards out sends a high ball in towards goal, Howard needing to keep an eye on it back on her line sees it over. Up the other end Dudley-Jones stealing the ball off the defence sees a shot whip up over the bar. Wood right drives on with the ball for Yeovil squares it into Aldridge top corner of the area runs on past her for Dudley-Jones behind she curls a shot past the near post.

Half-time Stevenage FC Women 0-3 Yeovil Town Women

A dominant first half display from Yeovil sees them leading Stevenage 3-0 at the break. Having created a host of chances eventually opened the scoring midway through the first half. Goalkeeper Hannah Vandersluis pulling off a number of fantastic saves to keep her side in in 2 quick fire goals late in the half putting Yeovil in the driving seat. Have moved the ball well and runs off it have been superb through the half despite the heat out there in reply thier defence has been little troubled.

Yeovil’s Kelly Aldridge with Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

Stevenage making a double change at the start of the 2nd half, Mickie Palfreman on for Notschild in defence and a change of goalkeeper too as Vandersluis is replaced by Te’a Oldroyd, a baseball cap adorning her head as the high sun faces her goal 2nd half. A switch of sides for me too 2nd half need some shade myself. Alot for Stevenage to do if they are to try and get something from the game. The hosts kicking off the 2nd period. Yeovil however are straight into the attack the ball won played wide to Wiltshire left a shot from distance dropping wide across goal. Palfremian in to clear the ball in the heart of defence as another cross is whipped in close to goal form the left.

Stevenage’s Mickie Palfreman

GOAL! Just what Stevenage would have wanted to avoid as they conceded a fourth goal right at the start of the 2nd half. Caught in possession at the back in front of the D, Dudley-Jones nicks the ball drives on into the box and sends her shot in under the newly arrived keeper 0-4.

Yeovil starting the 2nd half as they left the 1st get the ball forwards at will, Wiltshire with a diagonal ball left side on for Heatherson moving forwards she crosses into the six yard box Aldridge closing in forcing a save from Oldroyd at pointblank range. Stevenage attempt to counter Breckenridge on for Makewell central on for Emmings in attack, Godden supplying a good run to her left the pass towards her Godden takes it deep before crossing disappointingly into the side netting. A great first touch from Palfreman at the back for Stevenage looks to have put Godden through in behind on the left only for her attack to be thwarted by a raised flag.

Palfreman making an impact at the back for Stevenage winning challenges sends the ball up field Godden looking to get after it, Gauvain keeping with her defending for Yeovil in the final third. The visitors break quickly as they have all game Dudley-Jones away on the right, whips a vicious cross in across goal Wiltshire close in attacking the far post doesn’t get the contact she wants heavy allows the Stevenage defence to clear. Halford bursting into space on the right side as Aldridge spots her run the cross delivered near post Wiltshire advanced again to attack it under challenge fires wide.

Yeovil attack shows no relenting Dudley-Jones a threat on the right sending a ball in across the six yard box Aldridge throwing a leg at it can’t connect. Wiltshire is everywhere in attack finding herself free in a central position top of the area hits a rising ball in towards goal, a top class save from Oldroyd gloves it up over the bar.

GOAL! From the resulting corner Yeovil extend their lead the ball fired in fast near post deflected down into the ground falls to the feet of Dudley-Jones to strike hard from six yards out through feet giving the keeper no chance and complete her hat-trick 0-5.

A hat-trick for Yeovil Town Women’s Meesha Dudley-Jones

Has been a frustrating afternoon for Emmings in attack for Stevenage the ball played forwards to the right the striker makes a determined run to get forwards flashing a cross from deep across the face of goal, Halford tracking back with Godden swinging a foot to clear the ball before it can be attacked the corner conceded. The ball in a great one falling into the six yard box Yeovil fail to clear an instinctive header from Emmings close in only succeeds in putting it straight into Howard’s gloves.

Nicole Emmings forcing her way forwards for Stevenage

Oldroyd with another brilliant save as Yeovil mount an attack on the left Wood crossing square to Aldridge who tees up Heatherson to shoot from 25 yards out the ball in low Oldroyd down t stop it. Yeovil make their first change of the match with Aldridge coming off to be replace by Maya Ridge.

A free-kick inside the Stevenage half for Yeovil presents a further opportunity to attack the box Carlton on the ball lifting it in towards the top of the area, Wiltshire ghosting in between defenders getting a touch to set it up and shoot across the keeper and score, Stevenage immediately appealing for handball! Nothing given by the officials, a moments hesitation between her first and second touches Wiltshire sportingly admits to handling the ball, an action to be applauded and play resumes with a goal kick.

GOAL! That said a moment later Wilshire is celebrating a goal scored beautifully with her feet, no question about it a fantastic strike as she gets onto the ball wide left isn’t closed down on the angle strikes it well across the keeper from distance and into the top corner 0-6.

Wiltshire continues to be a threat played in on goal closing down the keeper left side she manages to avoid her diving challenge in behind, Burling gets back on her to make the tackle before she can craft a shot. Wood has support from Halford getting in the clear right side sends in a cross near post Wiltshire close in smashes a rising shot against the bar as Oldroyd leaps grounded the keeper recovers fantastically getting in the way to save as Dudley-Jones coming in far side smashes the ball against her.

Rebecca Halford looking for options for Yeovil Town Women

Another drinks break called, an injury to Godbeer is unable to continue leaving Stevenage with just 10 on the field. Yeovil make a change Wiltshire coming off Alexis Bussell. 20 minutes left to play. Play resumes Dudley-Jones is put away right side shooting sees her attempt bounce wide across goal.

GOAL! Halford bringing the ball on down the right miscues her forwards ball intended for Wood down the line instead goes central into Carlton she reacts well aware of Wood’s run flicks the ball out to her charging into the box Wood takes a touch a smashes it over the keeper into the top corner 0-7.

Yeovil make their final change with Rosie Kirby coming on to replace Halford at right back. Has all been Yeovil have maintained high energy levels despite the heat their younger players encouraged well by the more experienced. Into the final 6 minutes of the game Stevenage are tired been a tough afternoon. Dudley-Jones has pace to burn in behind blasts another effort wide across goal. Carlton with a break forwards with the ball encouraged to go on attempts to lob the keeper her effort falling wide of goal.

Yeovil Town Women midfielder, Dan Carlton

Breckenridge back in defence now blocking at the near post as Wood wide left drives a low cross into the box. Bussell beating the offside trap in the closing moments played in by Carlton in central plays her strike wide of goal. The final whistle blowing soon after and everyone can retreat to the shade.

Full time Stevenage FC Women 0-7 Yeovil Town Women

A comprehensive result for Yeovil Town Women as they dominated from start to finish to beat Stevenage 7-0 in the Determining Round of the FAWNL Cup. often a strange game as no one actually exits at this point just know what trophy you will be fighting for. That said a huge confidence boost for Yeovil nevertheless 16 goals scored in two matches. A good performance in soaring temperatures, well worked goals further chances created. Great movement on and off the ball bodes well going into the season. On the flip side a day to forget for Stevenage never got going shaky at the back little to offer in attack must go down as a bad day at the office and galvanise them going forwards.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, as you might expect today’s contenders are all from Yeovil. I thought Kelly Aldridge was superb and the driving force early on that set the tome for the visitors with some great attacking runs and interplay. Sarah Wiltshire could have had 5 or 6 goals today created numerous opportunities and she’s a nightmare for defenders to track as she drifts in almost unnoticed at times. Great close control with the ball always looking for an opening. Just edging it though is Meesha Dudley-Jones her movement up front and coming in from the right just as superb netting a hat-trick and like Wiltshire should have had more.

I’m not a hot weather person but I’m not going to knock it, an enjoyable trip to Letchworth today, the Determining Round is always an intriguing fixture in the football calendar. My thanks to both sides with their help today.

WOMEN'S FOOTBALL EAST

Covering Women's Football in the East of England

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