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Cup Final Report – BBC Essex Women’s County Cup

Thursday 29th March

Brentwood Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies

 Aveley FC the venue this evening for the final of the BBC Essex Women’s County Cup between Brentwood Town Ladies and the current holders C&K Basildon Ladies.

 Winners of the Essex Women’s County Cup for the past 3 successive season’s 4 wins over all C&K Basildon Ladies are aiming for a record equalling 5th win in the competition formed back the 1994/95 season. C&K Basildon’s opponents for this evening’s final are Brentwood Town Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division making their 1st ever County Cup Final appearance.

   Last season fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Billericay Town Ladies took C&K Basildon Ladies all the way to extra-time before the FAWPL Southern Division side went on to win their 3rd County Cup in a row. The will be an incentive to Brentwood Town Ladies as they face a tough test against a side in good form playing 2 leagues higher. Currently 6th in the ERWFL Premier Division, Brentwood Town Ladies form has varied this season a poor run earlier in the season seeing them slip down the standings. A change in the management team saw Paul Prosser taking over at 1st team manager. A run of good results has followed including their County Cup success’s. Have also formed a new Reserves side this season competing in Essex Women’s Division One, after a slow start the side is now in a rich vein of form in third position right amongst the title challengers.

  C&K Basildon Ladies have improved year on year as, promoted to the FAWPL Southern Division, have not only consolidated their status at that level but progressed up the table reaching the top of the league itself earlier in the season to date their highest league position in the women’s football pyramid. Currently 2nd in the table a point behind leaders Crystal Palace Ladies and have two games in hand. They too have a Reserves side their Development team currently 3rd in the FAWPL Reserve Southern Division.

Road to the Final

   Both sides were given a bye in the Essex Women’s County Cup to the quarter final stage along with Billericay Town Ladies, Writtle Ladies and Colchester Town Ladies all from the ERWFL Premier Division. A tough tie for Brentwood  Town Ladies in the quarter final draw away to local rivals Billericay Town Ladies a bit of competition always guaranteed between the sides it was Brentwood Town Ladies who were celebrating after the final whistle reaching the semi-finals with a 2-0 win. C&K Basildon Ladies were handed a home tie against Colchester Town Ladies and progressed without kicking a ball as the ERWFL side had unfortunately folded earlier in the season. 

 Into the semi-finals and Brentwood Town Ladies were at home this time up against fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Writtle Ladies this tie going all the way. The sides drawing 2-2 after 90 minutes and beyond the tie headed into a penalty shootout Brentwood Town Ladies emerging 4-2 winners to reach their 1st ever County Cup Final. C&K Basildon Ladies were also at home in the semi-finals and were at last kicking a ball in the competition hosting Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies from ERWFL Division One South who had come all the way through from the initial Preliminary Round. C&K Basildon Ladies finishing the game the stronger running out 9-0 winners to reach their 4th successive final.

The new stadium at Aveley FC

 A new venue for this evenings Essex Women’s County Cup Final, Aveley FC’s brand new stadium. An impressive looking modern main building housing the changing rooms, a very large clubhouse and bar along with fully equipped kitchen. Seating in front of the main building with a balcony inside the clubhouse/bar over looking the pitch too. A smaller seated stand opposite the pitch an all-weather 3G surface another 1st for the Essex Women’s County Cup Final. A wet journey down from Norfolk, thankfully the rain had stopped by the time I arrived at the ground, plenty of parking outside. Overcast by thankfully any rain would stay away for the match.

Brentwood Town Ladies starting XI – Kelly Walker, Amy Vernon, Emma Hooker, Nicole Manning, Chloe Wilkinson, Jess Mills, Danielle Butler (C), Drew Allen, Laura Wheeler, Georgia Holdaway & Marie Barker. Subs – Angela Arnold, Rachel Stittle, Ashley Debnam, Abigail Maynard & Zoe Hinton.

C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Laken Duchar-Clark, Ellie Manning, Hayley West, Danica Revell, Kerry -Anne Stimson, April Bowers, Zoe Rushen (C), Angela Addison, Jay Blackie & Therese Addison. Subs – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Tilly Deacon, Amy Nash & Karissa Rodney.

 It’s Basildon to kick off the final 1st half wearing and all red kit with Brentwood lined up opposite wearing navvy shirts and shorts with blue socks. The ball played out long to the left Angela Addison immediately on the move down that flank, along with her twin sister Therese operating down the right side in attack the pair have been a revelation since breaking into the 1st team earlier in the season. Plenty of pace Angela Addison sees her ball knocked on in to the area intercepted the rebound coming straight to Basildon captain Zoe Rushen 20 yards out shoots over from a central position. 

   Rushen comes forwards again in support of Therese Addison on the right getting past her inside the right channel into the area her low crossed squared across the six yard box, goalkeeper Kelly Walker diving onto the ball for Brentwood. Coming forwards with the ball Laura Wheeler plays it forwards into Drew Allen on the left for Brentwood has help on the inside from Georgia Holdaway receiving the pass takes the ball on looking to get in behind the Basildon defence fouls Basildon’s Danica Revell in the process the free kick going against her.

   The Addison sisters are lively attacking down the flanks for Basildon on either side breaking forwards have the Brentwood defence pinned back, Therese’s cross from the right swerving over the crossbar. A coming together between Brentwood at the back between Emma Hooker and Amy Vernon as the ball is played long from Basildon up to Therese Addison sees the attacking running in clear behind, the ball skipping off the 3G surface Walker is able to advance towards the edge of her box and clear before the attacker can close her down.

   Walker then produces a great save to deny Angela Addison scoring the opening goal as she breaks clear on the left side pushing on into the top of the area before firing in a fierce shot, angling in near post Walker beats the ball away sending it spinning away across the face of goal out for a corner kick. A good delivery from the corner coming in centrally Jay Blackie rising to meet it with her head 8 yards out on target is caught high by Walker in the Brentwood goal. A dominant start to the match from Basildon, Brentwood opportunities to attack are limited, Wheeler plays the ball over the top for Chloe Wilkinson in attack to try and chase down too much to do as the ball is gathered by goalkeeper Nikita Runnacles at the top of her area.

  GOAL! 13 minutes on the clock and Basildon open the scoring a long range diagonal ball from midfield picking out Angela Addison breaking in behind the Brentwood defence coming into a central position controls the ball in the area 10 yards out before slotting a low shot past Walker to make it 0-1.

   Basildon continue to press forwards a good ball from Blackie in the middle coming to receive the ball sends Therese Addison away on the right her cross going long across the six yard box. Blackie charges down Walker’s clearance as she comes out of her area to clear the ball the ball rebounding away to her right, no Basildon player is there to capitalise as Brentwood captain Danielle Butler gets back to hook the ball clear. 

  Ellie manning comes on from right back to help Therese Addison the ball played on for her the attacker taking on the Brentwood defence into the area lays the ball back towards April Bowers arriving at the top of the area opening up her body to shoot puts her effort wide across goal at the far post. Bowers is the furthest forwards again for Basildon moments later throwing herself at the ball crossed in towards the far post from the right can’t quiet connect with the ball inside the six yard box. 

   Brentwood are busy in defence, Nicole Manning making a vital interception inside the area, Marie Barker back to win the ball passes onto Wheeler she looks to get Holdaway forwards, Hayley West winning the tackle against her at the back for Basildon, a swift counter attack the ball into Kerry-Anne Stimson on for Angela Addison breaking down the left side a mazy run on the ball the Brentwood defence back pedalling, tries to set up her sister moving into a central position top of the area, Manning cutting the pass out.

   The Addison sisters look to link up in attack once more both breaking away down either flank Therese putting the cross in earlier along the top of the box Angela with the knock on into the area Manning stays with her keeping her eye on the ball putting in the defensive block as the attacker goes to shoot the ball turned behind for the corner. An very good delivery from the corner on the left side an inswinging ball whipped in with pace Walker under pressure beating the ball away on her goal line before Basildon can pounce on the loose ball play is stopped with a Brentwood player down on the line. 

  A strong tackle by Wheeler on Blackie at the top of the area sees the Brentwood player win the ball after Ellie Manning gets forwards to cross into her from the right. Walker rushing out of her area slides into to win the ball from Angela Addison as the attacker bursts clear, does get the ball but takes Addison out too the referee awarding the free-kick. Rushen a dead ball specialist sends a shot from the angle in on goal Walker palming it up over her crossbar makes the save. The corner whipped in with pace towards the near post Angela Addison attempting the diving header can’t get anything on the ball as Brentwood scramble it clear.

  Laken Duchar-Clark with the ball on the right on for Bowers played into Rushen her shot from distance held comfortably by the keeper. Brentwood with a rare attack Jess Mills with the ball into Wilkinson has support coming from Barker she passes the ball out to Drew Allen on the left side looking to come in field now way past Ellie Manning as the full back puts in the challenge to regain possession of the ball. A caution for Mills as she blocks Angela Addison on the left the ball into the area defended by Hooker. Therese Addison takes on Vernon down the right getting the better of the full back wrong footing her top of the area gets inside pulling the trigger drags her low shot wide across the face of goal. Bowers with the ball for Basildon 30 yards out central goes to shoot her effort charged down is enough to deflect the ball narrowly wide of the far post a corner awarded.

GOAL! Closing on in on the last five minutes of the 1st half Basildon double their lead another good delivery from the corner a high ball played into the crowded six yard box a Brentwood head on the ball knocks the ball away from goal dropping to the edge of the area. Angela Addison eyes must light up as the ball is presented straight to her she strikes it sending a thunderbolt through the crowd into the back of the net beyond 0-2. 

 Angela Addison pressing with the ball turns inside from the left into the area her cross along the six yards box Blackie letting the ball run across her turns and shoots Allen back in defence blocking the ball it spins behind for the corner. Playing in short towards the top of the area the shot is taken the ball striking to post, players from both sides scrambling to get to the ball Walker has gone down with a knock the referee stopping play so she can receive treatment. 

 4 minutes of stoppage time to be played Basildon ending the 1st half as strongly as they started it pushing forwards, a cross squared in low from the left Walker misses her low catch at the top of her six yard box plenty of players in the area the ball pin-balling around as Brentwood put in the blocks a shot from Therese Addison squeezes through Walker recovering well back on her feet on her line saves with her legs the ball deflected away. 

   Rushen getting into the area sees her shot charged down by Vernon deflected away for a corner kick. The delivery in from the right going long across the top of the six yard box Angela Addison up to head the ball, Brentwood have the far post covered the defending the ball clear a late chance for Brentwood to break the ball played long Wilkinson giving chase, Runnacles having not had much to do in the 1st half alert and out to the edge of her area to gather the ball into her gloves. 

Half-time Brentwood Town Ladies 0-2 C&K Basildon Ladies

   A 2-0 half-time lead for Basildon have dominated the 1st half in attack, Brentwood have been defending well kept busy at the back keeping the scoreline down. Walker making some fine saves too. Haven’t created much going forwards with no attempts at goal pushed back into their own areas for large spells getting players up in support of Wilkinson in attack hasn’t been easy, the Addison twins posing a real threat on either flank for Basildon with Blackie, Rushen and Bowers though the middle all capable of creating something from distance if given room on the ball. At 2-0 however the final is far from being settled.

 A double change for Brentwood at the break, Mills and Wheeler off 20 and 3 on for Brentwood but without a final team-sheet to confirm which number belong to which player I can tell you no more. Brentwood to get the 2nd half underway I’ve come across to the opposite side to sit in the mainstand for the 2nd half the venue impressive under the floodlights. Basildon with the early attack regaining possession of the ball in the middle Rushen on for Angela Addison breaking in behind on the left the cross fired in centrally Walker coming out slides in well to save at Blackie’s feet. 

 GOAL! Ins’t long before Basildon extend their lead however as 3 minutes into the 2nd half Angela Addison completes her hat-trick. A lovely flighted long pass by Rushen up towards Addison inside the area left side great control the attacker turning inside her marker before driving her strike past the keeper into the back of the net 0-3.

 Brentwood are more than prepared to have a go at Basildon themselves when they can get forwards Barker receiving the ball in the middle brings it on before playing it forwards for Wilkinson she turns and drives at the Basildon defence, Revell standing her ground puts in the tackle. Holdaway trying to get a little more advanced to support Wilkinson 2nd half chests the ball down well moving to the left plays the ball inside West intercepting for Basildon the pass sent long with Angela Addison breaking away down the left touching in on into the area shoots putting the ball wide across the face of goal.

   Manning takes the ball on down the right for Basildon crossing the ball in low towards Therese Addison positioned near post 3 yards out closely marked her touch wrong-footing the Brentwood defender she gets a shot away Walker with the instinctive close range save beats the ball away. Basildon continue their dominance pushing players forwards, Barker back sliding in to stop Bowers setting up Blackie. Manning on down the right away her cross put in early into the area Walker keeps her eye on the ball catching cleanly as Bowers closes her down. 

  A shot at goal for Brentwood as the ball is played inside Wilkinson letting fly from 25 yards out her effort dragged wide doesn’t trouble Runnacles. Stimson has been the holding midfielder for Basildon a rare foray forwards she sees her shot from 25 yards out charged down. A corner on the right for Basildon whipped in near post defended well Brentwood try to break but the ball is lost. Therese Addison back to goal outside the box sees the ball into her body turns well moving inside onto to her right foot to shoot, Walker making another excellent save. 

  Brentwood get forwards the ball rolled out to Holdaway on the left her pass on for Allen she sends a squared cross into the area, Runnacles catching before Wilkinson can reach it. Walker is down injured looks painful as she stays down after colliding with Addison. Is a long pause in play as she receives treatment sadly cannot continue and has to come of Abigail Maynard the substitute goalkeeper onto the field. Play resumes Vernon with a fine tackle to stop Therese Addison on the right as she comes inside looking to take her on.

  GOAL! Moving into the final 15 minutes Basildon extend their lead, Angela Addison the provider this time as she is put away clear on the left side plenty of pace she fires the ball into the middle of the area aiming for Blackie, who shows great composure to let the ball run across her opening up her body to turn the ball wide past the keeper and on into the bottom corner of the net for a 0-4 lead.

  Brentwood go straight up the other end from the restart the game a little stretched showing a willingness to attack Runnacles has to make a save as the ball comes to Allen central 25 yards out has time to pull the trigger the ball arrowing in high on target Runnacles behind it tipping the shot up over her crossbar. The corner from the right going long and out at the far post. Brentwood come forwards Holdaway inside to Barker onto Wilkinson she tries to play Holdaway in behind on the left Manning stepping up to intercept the ball.

   A difficult ball for Maynard to deal with up the other end the high ball flung into the box from the left the keeper doing well to pluck the ball down from under her crossbar, Vernon kicking the ball away for the corner. 

 GOAL! From the 81st minute corner Basildon extend their lead, the delivery from Manning again very good fired in along the top of the six yards box the perfect high for Rushen who gets up highest to put her head on the ball and drive it into the goal 0-5. 

 A triple change for Basildon follows the goal with Runnacles, West and Bowers off, on come goalkeeper Jamie-Lee Bamford, Tilly Deacon in defence and Karissa Rodney in attack. Basildon press on winning a corner on the right the ball into the six yard box headed clear by Brentwood, Revell onto the ball outside the area screws her 20 yard shot wide of goal. The Brentwood defence will have a few ball prints adorning their bodies come the morning as they put in a succession of blocks inside the box in their determination to prevent Basildon scoring as repeated shots are taken, Manning, Vernon and Allen all putting their bodies in the way of the ball.

   Rodney with a chance to score for Basildon as the Addison sisters combine in attack Angela with the cross in long from the left Therese with the touch to square the ball back into Rodney central scoops the ball up over the crossbar from six yards out a deflection spotted a corner awarded. The keeper with a good save at close range from a Rodney shot at the near post. 

GOAL! Into stoppage time a bit to be played with the injury to Walker and Basildon score a sixth goal breaking from a Brentwood attack Duchar-Clark with the interception plays the past long the Brentwood defence stretched Rodney away in behind on the left Angela Addison running central into the box the cross squared into her she stays on her feet as the challenge comes in digging the ball out of her feet and slotting it past the keeper for her 4th of the match, putting Basildon into a 0-6 lead.

GOAL! The lead is further extended 4 minutes into stoppage time a free-kick wide right outside the box as Vernon up ended Therese Addison. Rushen over the set-piece goes for goal the ball going long towards the far post plenty of pace on the ball finds in gap in the crowded six yard box and nestles inside the post 0-7.

Full time Brentwood Town Ladies 0-7 C&K Basildon Ladies

   That’s it the final whistle blows and C&K Basildon Ladies win a fifth recorded equalling Essex Women’s County Cup Final a fourth successive County Cup win too. A dominant display right from the off getting players forwards. Brentwood knowing they would take some stopping battled well and defended well for large parts of the game but without being able to get the ball up the other end for any length of time the Basildon attacks were coming at them frequently. Some fine saves from Walker keeping the scoreline down was just 3-0 going into the final 10 minutes of the game. Basildon though are a strong side and have were composed and disciplined at the back.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 A fairly straightforward choice for this evening’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Lively right from the start and full of running with or without the ball at her feet creating plenty of goal scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates, and scoring 4 well taken goals in the final of the Essex Women’s County Cup it is of course Angela Addison.

C&K Basildon Ladies, 5 times Essex Women’s County Cup winners

 Congratulations to C&K Basildon Ladies on their record equalling County Cup success winning a 4th successive final. Ultimately a 7-0 loss but congratulation to go to Brentwood Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever County Cup Final. An enjoyable trip to Aveley FC this evening.

Match Report – Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies

Sunday 25th March

 The football action this Sunday afternoon on Women’s Football East comes from FAWPL South East Division One a big game too, with league leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies travelling to take on 4th placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

 This is my first look at AFC Wimbledon Ladies since they were promoted to the FAWPL two season’s ago. Had a strong debut season playing in South East Division One finishing in 3rd position. Building on that have had a very strong second season at this level leading the table by a massive 16 points with 4 league matches to play. Are within touching distance of clinching the title. Getting their league games played whilst their closest rivals lost fixtures through postponements and cup runs have played more than else in the top half of the table losing just 2 of their 18 league games played so far. 

 

 Ipswich Town Ladies and Leyton Orient WFC were both in the title hunt for a good period but have both fallen away. Just one side left that can potentially catch the league leaders now, rivals Milton Keynes Dons Ladies in 4th place in the table have plenty of league games left to play 9 in total and should they claim maximum points in all of those matches they can catch AFC Wimbledon would need to overhaul a +32 goal difference too. 

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have been amongst the top sides in the league for a number of season’s finishing in the top 3 since the FAWPL took over the old South East Combination Leagues 4 season’s ago. One of the strongest sides in the league again this season a tall order to chase down AFC Wimbledon however well placed just 2 points behind 2nd placed Ipswich Town Ladies with 3 games in hand runner’s up spot is definitely there for the taking and with the upcoming changes to the women’s top tiers this summer league placed could yet be a crucial factor of deciding where a side may be come the start of next season. Ahead of the match Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have announced two signings to bolster the squad, striker Leah Cudone returning to the club after spells with Watford Ladies and Leicester City Ladies and Kim Farrow who joins from Luton Town Ladies.

Newport Pagnell FC the venue for today’s match the home ground for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies several training pitches around the main ground. A clubhouse and bar beside it. Two small seated stands on either side of the wide pitch. The weather pleasant and sunny for a change at the start of spring March ending far better than it started. A few clouds around but no rain forecast.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies starting XI – Sophie Shults, Leanna Doyle (C), Louise Naylor, Sasha Newsome, Vicky Holland, Charley Clarke, Alice Hughes, Charly Wright, Anna Loftus, Heather McDonnell & Kim Farrow. Subs – Zoe Boote, Dawn Mallett, Leah Cudone, Laura Mills & Mollie Burgess.

AFC Wimbledon Ladies starting XI – Holly Wright, Sian Wylie, Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins, Jess Trimnell (C), Hannah Billingham, Becky Mclaren-Johnson, Rebecca Sargeant, Laura Quinn-Low, Katie Stanley, Jenny Banfield & Caroline Bisson. Subs – Abbie Measures, Hannah Searle, Kelly-Jade Whelan, Georgia Heasman & Sarah Wentworth.

A slightly delayed kick-off due to one of the officials arriving late it’s Milton Keynes all in white to get the 1st half underway with Wimbledon lined up opposite wearing an all dark blue kit with a splash of yellow. A fast start to the game Milton Keynes playing the ball out to their wide players testing Wimbledon down the flanks both sides moving in quickly to close the ball down little time is going to be afforded on the ball. Milton Keynes captain Leanna Doyle finds space on the right side picked out by Vicky Holland at the back going on her attempted cross is blocked by Wimbledon’s Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins.

Leanna Doyle, Milton Keynes captain

   Alice Hughes gets onto the ball centrally inside the Wimbledon half not a lot room tries the through ball for Heather McDonnell getting in behind, Wimbledon captain Jess Trimnell sticking her leg out to intercept the ball. Wimbledon break down the right wing Katie Stanley with help from Caroline Bisson a one two before Stanley looks to play the ball on into the area, Sasha Newsome getting onto the ball to cut out the pass for Milton Keynes. 

    Hoesli-Atkins comes forwards down the left to support Laura Quinn-Low linking up the pair get down into the corner the full back playing the ball into Quinn-Low who chests down well attempts to hook the ball over her shoulder into the area beyond, Milton Keynes can see the ball run out of play. A high tempo to start the match the opening 10 minutes have been busy neither sides has tested the opposing goalkeeper however a determination from both sides not to let either try with one time allowed on the ball the final pass isn’t finding it’s target.

  Newsome is there to intercept the ball at the back as Rebecca Sargeant through the middle tries to side the ball through for Quinn-Low looking to spring the offside trap coming inside. Doyle with the ball at her feet on the right goes forwards, both attackers, McDonnell and Kim Farrow making her Milton Keynes debut come across to support Doyle inside to McDonnell top of the area right side on for Farrow her fierce ball into towards goal cut out by Wimbledon comes back out to Doyle sends a looping ball back in towards goal a difficult one for Wimbledon goalkeeper Holly Wright to deal with back on her line keeps her eye in the ball scooping it out of the air and claims the bouncing ball before anyone can pounce.

    A free-kick for Wimbledon on half-way players go forwards from the back the ball delivered in towards the top of the area, Milton Keynes don’t get it cleared Hoesli-Atkins running onto the ball sends a high ball back into the area. Newsome under it heads the ball behind to concede the 1st corner of the match, an inswinging delivery Milton Keynes win and clear the ball threaten to break the ball played up to the attackers, McDonnell looking to get away in behind as Farrow opens up her body to slide the pass into her run, the Wimbledon defence quick to shut the door on her. 

AFC Wimbledon’s Jenny Banfield

The centre backs for both sides aren’t giving anything away as both sides try their luck through the middle, Becky Mclaren-Johnson on for Jenny Banfield, Caroline Bisson making the forward run getting into the box, Newsome goes with her and regains possession of the ball. Play turned around quickly Wimbledon breaking up a Milton Keynes attack the ball played long with Bisson looking to get in behind, Newsome 20 yards out gets a glancing header on the ball not enough to prevent it reaching the area, Bisson lively after it, Louise Naylor across on the cover from full-back defends well to get the ball back to her goalkeeper, Sophie Shults.

Milton Keynes, Louise Naylor

A corner for Wimbledon on the right a good delivery from Sian Wylie coming in near post, Shults not getting hold of the ball inside her six yard box, Newsome there behind her to hook the ball high out of the area. Charley Clarke winning the ball for Milton Keynes on for Hughes, Farrow ahead of her 25 yards out, very congested through the middle no way through, Hanna Billingham winning the tackle for Wimbledon the counter attack bringing a corner, a cluster of Wimbledon players gathered at the top of the area the delivery in towards them Milton Keynes with the knock down, Stanley onto the ball 25 yards out sends a low ball racing in towards goal, Shults back on her line can gather safely.

  Trimnell with the long ball out from defence picks out Stanley on the move down the right wing Naylor goes with her a slight deflection from the defender as she attempts to stop the cross the ball into the side netting, from the resulting corner on the right the ball comes to Trimnell positioned at the top of the area good head work to get the ball in on goal, Newsome once again with the interception to head the ball away from her goal. 

AFC Wimbledon’s Laura Quinn-Low

  A break in play as Wimbledon’s Sargeant is clattered into. A chance for everyone to rest no let up in the tempo the game has a derby feel to it. The midfielder is okay to continue play resuming Milton Keynes get forwards on the right, Farrow on the ball running on McDonnell in an offside position catches the Wimbledon defence static as Farrow goes on herself in behind top of the area fires her strike over the bar. 

  Loftus is shoved over in a dangerous position outside the Wimbledon area as she brings the ball inside from the right, Charly Wright on the set-piece 25 yards out, goes for goal getting the high ball up towards goal dips late but not enough to creep under the crossbar over Wright scrambling across her goal. Quinn-Low with Hoesli-Atkins get the ball down into the left corner. Mclaren-Johnson coming across to receive the ball her cross into the area cut out by Holland. Wimbledon win a corner right side the ball played into towards the top of the area Quinn-Low with the header this time can’t direct on target. 

Milton Keynes, Charly Wright sees her effort drop over the crossbar

Charley Clarke is booked as she brings Quinn-Low down in the centre circle. The free-kick delivered into the six yard box, Bisson right on top of the goalkeeper who manages to knock the ball down to the floor, Naylor with the instinctive clearance sending the ball over her own goal. Pinball at times such is the time anyone is being given on the ball, scrappy at times neither side letting the other settle as the referee brings the opening half to a close.

Half-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 0-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies

   A fast pace to the first half plenty of quality players on show however no-one has been afforded any time play squeezed passes rushed and not finding their mark, few chances created and neither goalkeeper with a definitive save to make. 

Wimbledon make a change at half-time Sargeant who has been on the receiving end of a couple of knocks in the 1st half replaced by Hannah Searle in midfield. Right from the off the temp of the game resumes Clarke in to win the ball off Banfield. Billingham slides in to intercept as Farrow looks to get in behind. Wylie clearing the ball inside the area as Milton Keynes play the cross in from the right. 

Wimbledon with a throw-in deep on the right, the ball lost Milton Keynes launch a rapid counter attack the ball played up to McDonnell midway inside the Wimbledon half good hold-up play allowing teammates to get forwards Hughes central given the ball helps it on for Loftus breaking away into the right channel into the area under pressure from the Wimbledon defence fires her shot over the crossbar. 

GOAL! The stalemate is broken early in the 2nd half another rapid counter attack from Milton Keynes the ball played out to McDonnell wide left deeper this time players are drawn across as support arrives the cross whipped into the area, Farrow with the run gets her head on the ball 8 yards out and sends it past the keeper to score on her debut 1-0.

Milton Keynes, Kim Farrow

Milton Keynes look to press the advantage get bodies forwards Clarke through the middle plays the ball over the top for Farrow inside the area the ball spinning as it lands takes it away from the attacker allowing the advancing Wright to get her gloves firmly around the ball. Changes for both sides Kelly-Jade Whelan on for Quinn-Low, McDonnell comes off for Milton Keynes Leah Cudone coming on. 

  A corner for Milton Keynes on the left side a good delivery from Wright the ball whipped in across the six yard box, Newsome with a glancing header the ball out the opposite side another corner signalled Wright goes across to the right the ball coming in to the six yard box once again headed down blocked on the line a scramble before Wright lays claim to the ball. Naylor gets her body in the way to block as Wylie gets forwards to cross for Wimbledon. 

AFC Wimbledon captain, Jess Trimnell slides in to tackle, Milton Keynes Charly Wright

   Stanley with the ball on the left for Wimbledon fired in across the top of the area good control from Banfield back to goal pushes the ball out to Searle before drifting right to receive the return pass gets a shot away from 20 yards out Shults is well placed inside her six yard box to gather cleanly. Loftus comes off for Milton Keynes, with Dawn Mallett coming on. Shults comes out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball as Bisson tries to get past Holland.

Hannah Searle after the ball for AFC Wimbledon

   The high tempo to the match is seeing a few tired legs out there a little bit of space starting to show. Milton Keynes make their final change, Laura Mills coming on in attack to replace Farrow. Cudone is caught offside as Mallett intercepts a Wimbledon goalkick. An extra injection of pace for Milton Keynes with the introduction of Mills getting the ball at her feet on the right to the byline her cross cut back into the six yard box Cudone running onto it puts her head into the path of the ball, straight into the gloves of Wright. 

  Another break in play due to injury a painful one for Mclaren-Johnson this time her ankle feeling the full force. The referee issuing a final warning to Clarke. 20 minutes left in the match Mclaren-Johnson strapped up is able to continue. Bisson moves to the right to receive the ball support from Wylie getting forwards down the right wing her cross in headed out of the area comes back to Bisson, hits a lofted ball back in towards goal over hits the stantion behind the goal. A final change for Wimbledon, Georgia Heasman coming on to replace Banfield.

AFC Wimbledon’s, Becky Mclaren-Johnson

 A corner right side for Milton Keynes, Wright to play the ball in towards the top of the area, Newsome deeper this time looks to get onto the ball, Clarke is there too ends up tackling her own player. A shot from Wimbledon from outside the box is cut out immediately protests are made for handball the calls ignored by the officials. Pressing late on in the match Wimbledon are far from out of the game counter attacking down the right Stanley plays the pass into Whelan outside the area getting it back on the overlap fires the cross in towards the near post Bisson arriving puts her header narrowly wide of the post Wimbledon’s best chance of the match. 

AFC Wimbledon’s, Caroline Bisson

  Whelan in the middle again for Wimbledon on the ball out for Stanley on the left puts a high ball into the area towards the far post a difficult one for Shults to deal with does well to pluck the ball down before her defence scramble it away. Cudone is booked late on for kicking the ball away as Milton Keynes counter. With Wimbledon committing more forwards in the closing stages of the match they risk being hit on the counter, the ball long up to Cudone the striker leaps to head the ball on.

Leah Cudone heads the ball on for Milton Keynes

   Hughes sliding in wins the ball sending it on for Cudone her pass out to Mills on the right her cross into the box early, Wright does well to glove the ball away from Cudone racing in at her far post. The game moves into stoppage time. Heasman with support from Searle in the middle looks to release Bisson in behind top of the Milton Keynes area the flag going up against her. Wimbledon with the last attack Bisson finding space on the right help from Wylie a high ball in towards goal Shults deals with the difficult ball as the final whistle goes and Milton Keynes win the match 1-0.

Full time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 1-0 AFC Wimbledon Ladies

   Plenty of energy expended in that match from both sides, played at a fast tempo throughout, time on the ball at a premium, little space to be found a committed contest which was only ever going to see a handful of goal scoring chances created. Milton Keynes getting the lead early in the 2nd half, battled to keep it and claim the 3 points. Move into 3 place in the league as a result a point behind Leyton Orient WFC  who beat Norwich City 4-1 this afternoon. 4 games in hand on the 2nd placed side however 5 on Wimbledon who maintain a healthy 14 point lead despite suffering there 3rd loss of the season. Still on course to win the title. Milton Keynes have alot of games to fit in between now and the end of the season come thick and fast now away to Stevenage Ladies on Wednesday evening.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Alot of battling performances out there for both sides this afternoon, so once again it’s a difficult one choosing today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, for the 2nd game in a row however it goes to a player who has collected one before, Milton Keynes Sasha Newsome strong at the back, with some good interceptions and reading of the game, timing of her tackles and not giving the Wimbledon attack any opportunity to get in behind.

Nice to watch a game in the sunshine has been a long winter and hopefully April with bring more of the same. An entertaining match two committed sides on display who wanted to give nothing away. My thanks as always to both sides for helping me out with the teams. 

Cup Final Report – Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup

Hertfordshire Women’s Challenge Cup Final

Sunday 11th March

Stevenage Ladies v Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

The first County Cup Final of the season today a 3:00pm kick-off at The County Ground, Letchworth, with Stevenage Ladies looking to successfully retain the trophy for the 1st time take on county cup final debutants, Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies.

 A contest that pits FAWPL against ERWFL, two leagues between the sides a stern test for Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies playing in ERWFL Division One South up against a Stevenage Ladies side that is as strong as it has ever been. 

  Reece Buck the man in charge of Stevenage Ladies 1st team these days into his 2nd season in the job, was previously in charge of Hoddesdon Town Owls taking several of their experienced players with him to join Stevenage. Promoted to the FAWPL they retained their league status in their first season at that level aswell as winning the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup for the ??? Bringing in several experienced players over the close season have gotten stronger currently in 7th place in the table well away from danger nudging towards a top half finish. Their 4th successive County Cup Final winning the competition in the 2014/15 & 2016/17 seasons Stevenage Ladies are looking to successfully defend the trophy for the 1st time.

 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies reached the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final for the 1st time this season, a great achievement for a side that has been through a difficult spell of late. Following the departure of Reece Buck and several players, Matthew Hudson took over the 1st team having to field an inexperienced side last season, a difficult campaign struggling for points things starting to improve towards the end of the season. Some of their experienced players returning to the club, Leah Dunnage, Kristina O’Connell and Rosy Wodhams were in the starting line-up for Stevenage in the County Cup Final last season Wodhams scoring two goals. Thing’s are improving as Hoddesdon look to reestablish themselves in the ERWFL.

Road to the Final

 A big win away from home for Stevenage Ladies in the 1st Round of the competition as they began the defence of their trophy, taking in Beds & Herts Division One side Garston Ladies. Hat-tricks for both Leah Littlechild and Nicole Emmings in a 14-0 win. More of the same in the 2nd Round away to Bed & Herts Division Two side Evergreen Eagles 14-0 again the winning score, captain Donna McGuigan the pick of the goalscorers with 5 goals to her name.

   Onto the quarter finals and another away trip this time to play Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies whom they beat to win the County Cup in the 2014/15 season. The result 3-0 then it was 3-0 again as Stevenage booked their place in the semi-finals with goals from McGuigan, Ellie Searle and Amy Makewell. A repeat of last seasons final in the semi-finals only Stevenage were at home for the 1st time in the competition as they took on Royston Town Ladies goals from Littlechild, Ashleigh Deacon and Chloe Gunn seeing them into the final courtesy of a 3-0 win.

 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies started their campaign in the County Cup at home to Beds & Herts Division Three newcomers Welwyn Pegasus Azures. Kristina O’Connell scoring a hat-trick in a comfortable win for the higher league side. At home again in the 2nd Round a much sterner test followed as they faced fellow league side and unbeaten leaders, Stevenage Ladies Reserves. A great result for Hoddesdon as they battled to a 3-3 draw after 90 minutes taking the tie into extra-time going on to win 5-3. Hannah Kelly scoring a hat-rick with O’Connell also getting a brace.

 Higher league opponents in the quarter finals of the competition Hoddesdon were draw at home again to take on Colney Heath Ladies. Another battling display seeing the sides drawing 2-2. Rosy Wodhams and Charley Handley scoring for Hoddesdon the tie going all the way to penalties. Goalkeeper Casey Herrick with some great saves as Hoddesdon went on to win the shoot-out 3-1 to reach the semi-finals. At home once again were the narrow favourites as they took on Beds & Herts Division One leaders, St Albans Ladies. Captain, Natasha Crick scoring twice with a goal each for O’Connell, Handley and Wodhams in a 5-2 victory to reach the County Cup Final for the very first time.

  The County Ground, Letchworth once again the venue for today’s final. The Hertfordshire FA getting their county cup competition wrapped up in most cases a month before the surrounding counties. A nice wide playing surface a little sticky underfoot with the amount of moisture that has fallen recently. Overlooked by a large mainstand on one side the bar at one end the changing rooms beyond. At the other the Pukka Tukka refreshments trailer serving hot food and drinks. A good crowd building for the final. An overcast sky not too chilly little or no rai forecast during the match.   

 Stevenage Ladies starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Paige Logie, Tanya Blacksley, Dominique Godbeer, Cara Breckenridge, Chloe Gunn, Ellie Searle, Leah Littlechild, Donna McGuigan (C) & Nicole Emmings. Subs – Danielle Maloney, Amy Josland, Kristi Burling, Ashleigh Deacon & Rebecca Scola.

 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies starting XI – Casey Herrick, Katie Kendle, Charley Handley, Faye Holder, Hannah Kelly, Leah Dunnage, Sian Owens, Chloe Makepeace, Kristina O’Connell, Natasha Crick (C) & Rosy Woodhams. Stephanie Iaonnou, Megan Davies, Shannon Daly, Robyn Jones & Courtney Smart. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  7 players that started last season’s County Cup Final are in the starting line-ups this afternoon 4 for Stevenage whilst, Leah Dunnage, Kristina O’Connell and Rosy Wodhams represent Hoddesdon this time around. It’s Stevenage to kick off the game 1st half wearing white shirts with pale red vertical stripes, red shorts and socks. Hoddesdon lined up opposite wearing navy and red vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. Midfielder Chloe Gunn sends the ball long from kick-off out into the left channel for Ellie Searle to try and chase down can’t reach it an early goalkick for Casey Herrick for Hoddesdon.

 A bright start from Stevenage trying to get players forwards Hoddesdon with a free-kick on half way as Paige Logie commits the foul for Stevenage the ball played high up towards the top of the area, Dominique Godbeer the middle of Stevenage’s three centre backs getting her head on the ball to clear. Sian Owens on the right side for Hoddesdon looks to make progress down the wing her pass inside to Rosy Wodhams she tries to pick her out with the return pass, Tanya Blacksley coming in tackling the ball out for a throw. Hoddesdon sending captain Natasha Crick away down into the right corner she squares the cross inside the box into Wodhams looking to strike it on the angle first time, Godbeer going to ground slides in to take the ball away from the striker. 

Stevenage Ladies, Dominique Godbeer

 Stevenage launch a rapid counter attack, Gunn bringing the ball on through the middle. Nicole Emmings peeling away into space on the right ahead of her Gunn picks her out with the pass her cross into the Hoddesdon area cut out by Faye Holder. Stevenage rebuild in attack coming forwards the pass out to Leah Littlechild on the right her cross whipped in dipping near post captain Donna McGuigan with the run stoops to get her head onto the ball turns her effort wide of the post inside the six yard box. A fast tempo from Stevenage at the start of the game coming forwards with purpose. 

Chloe Makepeace winning the tackle for Hoddesdon Town Owls

  A free-kick for Stevenage wide right level with the top of the area, Gunn their set-piece specialist over the ball goes for goal her strike flashing wide across the face of goal. Searle with the ball on the left rolls it on for Emmings, getting inside the full back puts the ball into the path of Gunn her long range strike controlled by Herrick back on her goal line. As Stevenage come again the Hoddesdon defence gets a little ragged as they attempt to clear the ball falling pushed out wide McGuigan latching onto the ball stumbles slightly before regaining control and firing in a vicious strike towards goal her attempt smashing against the cross bar before running out wide to the left.

 Hoddesdon have defended hard for the opening 15 minutes getting forwards pressing the ball high catch Stevenage in possession Hannah Kelly winning the ball brings it on, Cara Breckenridge getting back on her to win the ball back for Stevenage. The ball played into Gunn she picks out Searle going clear into space on the left her cross fired into the near post intercepted by the Hoddesdon defence. 

GOAL! Stevenage open the scoring in the 16th minute have a free-kick inside their own half the ball played up towards the top of the area, Gunn under it the ball knocked into McGuigan she passes back to Gunn who lays the ball back for Amy Makewell to hit 1st time 25 yards out her low driven shot racing past the diving keeper into the bottom corner 1-0.

  Stevenage looking strong press forwards Emmings with support from Littlechild on the right the ball turned into the area, Holder comes charging forwards to win the tackle for Hoddesdon. Herrick produces an excellent one handed save as Stevenage get in behind her defence Makewell moving to the left cutting the ball across the area for Emmings to strike from 8 yards out Herrick flinging a hand out parrying the ball away from her goal.  

GOAL! On 20 minutes Stevenage’s lead is doubled, Makewell scoring again from outside the box a virtual copy of her first goal, Bodies forwards around the top of the area as the ball comes in Emmings getting the ball into the number 9 she sends another low drive into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

 Little opportunity for Hoddesdon to get the ball into their attackers, O’Connell bringing the ball on through the middle has support from Kelly she holds the ball up well tries to pick out Wodhams on the left, Logie closing her down regaining possession for Stevenage. A free-kick wide right for Stevenage, Gunn to play the ball long into the area, Charley Handley with a commanding header getting the ball away for Hoddesdon. A throw on the left the ball played inside by Stevenage is inviting Breckenridge to have a strike 30 yards out she obliges, pulling her effort wide of the left post. 

Hannah Kelly on the ball for Hoddesdon looking to get past Stevenage’s Cara Breckenridge

 Littlechild breaking away on the right side for Stevenage her diagonal ball into the box parried behind for a corner by Herrick. Taken short up the line on the right Littlechild fires a shot narrowly over the Hoddesdon crossbar. Katie Kendle tackles well to stop Searle on the left as Gunn looks to play the winger in behind. Gunn confident in possession breaks forwards through the middle with the ball O’Connell seeing the threat goes with her sliding in to take the ball from her as she closes down on the area. 

Stevenage’s Tanya Blacksley contesting the ball with Hoddesdon’s Rosy Wodhams

 Stevenage are on top, pushing on the ball played inside to McGuigan in a central position outside the box a turn and hit as the ball comes across her the attempt taking a deflection wide for a corner. Dunnage winning the ball for Hoddesdon, attempting to break themselves Stevenage are organised at the back the 3 centre backs keeping tabs on any one threatening to get in behind. 

GOAL! Half an hour played and Stevenage extend their lead with a well worked goal. Gunn beginning the move and finishing it as she carries the ball forwards laying the pass out to Searle getting in behind on the left Gunn continuing her run into the area as Searle sends the ball into her run, the midfield opening up her body to send the ball angling away from the keeper into the top corner 3-0.

Stevenage Ladies, Chloe Gunn

 Stevenage press their advantage look strong as Hoddesdon look to regroup. O’Connell back to clear the ball hasn’t had much chance to influence thing’s going forwards. Holder scrambling the ball away inside the box for Hoddesdon as the cross is flung into the area from the right, a foul spotted by the referee as Emmings latches onto the ball. A chance for Makewell for complete her hat-trick as the ball comes to her momentarily free in the area a second to composure herself looks to play the ball wide of the keeper right into the bottom corner of the net sees her shot run wide of the post. Hoddesdon make a change, Stephanie Iaonnou coming on in place of O’Connell. 

 Closing in on the final 5 minutes of the 1st half, Hoddesdon have their 1st shot of the match coming as Stevenage give away possession wide on the left Crick with the attempt from all of 30 yards out, on target, Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford Ladies having had little to do in the Stevenage goal, well place however back on her line is right behind the strike palming it down and safely claiming the ball. 

Hoddesdon Town Owls captain, Natasha Crick

GOAL! 41 minutes on the clock and Stevenage have another goal. Launching a counter attack the ball with Littlechild right side she squares the ball inside to Breckenridge coming on through the middle she is fouled in a dangerous position 25 yards from goal. Gunn to take it strikes the ball perfectly the ball lifted up towards goal flies over the keeper and into the back of the net 4-0.

  Late into the 1st half and Stevenage ring the changes, making 3 substitutions, Emmings, Littlechild and Blacksley coming off for Danielle Maloney, Ashleigh Deacon and Rebecca Scola. 

Half-time Stevenage Ladies 4-0 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

  A dominant 1st half from Stevenage sees them with a comfortable 4-0 lead. A brace each from Makewell and Gunn. Have created numerous other chances. Hoddesdon have battle hard in defence have see little of the ball themselves with just the one attempt at goal. 

 More changes at half-time for Stevenage, Amy Josland and Kristi Burling replacing Breckenridge and McGuigan. Megan Davies on for Hoddesdon who get the 2nd half underway. A later 3pm kick-off sees the floodlights starting to come on as the natural light begins to fade. Wodhams with the ball at her feet 30 yards out is allowed to come on takes on the strike her effort on target Burgess back on her line right behind it once again comfortably gathering the low ball. 

Stevenage Ladies, Paige Logie

  Deacon wide on the right side for Stevenage receiving the ball off a throw sends the pass inside towards Gunn positioned outside the box connecting with the ball sens it looping high into the air, heading towards goal looks to be heading over but dips very late a real problem for Herrick as she back peddles onto her goal line sees the ball land on top of the crossbar. 

 GOAL! 5 minutes into the 2nd half Stevenage go further into the lead, the Hoddesdon defence stretched pulled over to the left as Searle races on with the ball fires in a cross along the face of goal, both Josland and Deacon are racing in far post the latter getting the touch on the ball to turn it into the back of the net to make it 5-0. 

GOAL! A 6th goal quickly follows a minute after scoring her 1st of the final Deacon with her 2nd with a great individual goal as she is set away on the right side after Stevenage break up a Hoddesdon attack. The right winger carrying the ball on into the area unopposed right of goal sends her shot wide across the keeper to score 6-0.

Two quick goals for Stevenage’s Ashleigh Deacon

  Hoddesdon make a change Makepeace coming off to be replaced by the returning O’Connell. Makewell with a strong run forwards, Holder getting in front of her to get the ball back to her keeper to clear. A free-kick won for Hoddesdon 30 yards out in a central position O’Connell over the ball goes for goal on target the shot lacks the pace to trouble Burgess. 

Makewell close again to completing her hat-trick as Gunn playing deeper 2nd half sends the ball forwards towards Scola as Stevenage come forwards a clever touch from Scola sending the ball on through splitting the Hoddesdon defence Makewell racing in free behind, Herrick starts to come, Makewell puts the ball past her spinning away her head in her hands as she sees the ball strike the base of the post. 

  Dunnage defending well against Makewell on the right giving away the corner as the attacker looks to get around her. Iaonnou comes off for Hoddesdon, Shannon Daly coming on. A free-kick wide on the left inside the Hoddesdon half for Stevenage the ball headed on into the box, Deacon is free far side the flag up for offside however before she can strike the ball. Wodhams and Davies work the ball well together on the left for Hoddesdon, Davies looking to get in behind, Logie with good defensive work for Stevenage.

Megan Davies bringing the ball forwards for Hoddesdon

GOAL! Stevenage get a 7th goal and finally it’s a hat-trick for Makewell. Times her run in behind well as Gunn plays the ball up to her from the back, with the keeper coming to close her down as she carries the ball right the striker dinks the shot over her and into the goal beyond to make it 7-0.

 Tiring Hoddesdon have let their heads drop a little 2nd half Handley winning the ball puts it forwards into midfield the ball deflected out to the right, Kelly wriggles clear to get in behind and fire a cross into the area, Godbeer coming towards her getting in the block. Searle with a burst of energy on the left for Stevenage fires a low cross into the area Josland can’t quite connect running on races onto Scola quickly no control on her attempt as the ball is deflected up over the crossbar. 

Rosy Wodhams winning the ball for Hoddesdon from a Stevenage corner

  A free-kick wide left for Stevenage Gunn to play in towards the far post the ball knocked down comes to Burling controls well hitting the shot on the turn putting the ball wide. Kendle is off for Hoddesdon as Robyn Jones comes on. Stevenage continue to dominate Makewell driving a 20 yard strike wide of the right post. Gunn getting onto the ball 30 yards out plays Josland in behind to inside the box, Herrick coming to close her down going to ground stops the shot getting past her. Emmings comes back on for Makewell for Stevenage, Handley coming off for Hoddesdon, Courtney Smart joining the game. 

Stevenage make more changes, McGuigan and Littlechild returning to the field late on. Into the last 5 minutes. Wodhams with a cross/shot from a wide position on the right sending the ball behind the Stevenage goal. 

GOAL! Another goal for Stevenage late in the match Littlechild on target to bring up their 8th. The attack on the left the ball rolled into Emmings outside the box good hold up play allowing Littlechild to get forwards running past her Emmings lays the pass into her run Littlechild striking the ball from the top of the area finds the bottom corner 8-0.

Godbeer comes off in the closing stages for Stevenage as they finish as strong as thy started the game. Scola wide on the right  flashes a cross along the top of the six yard box, McGuigan in the middle attempting an ambitious overhead kick does’t connect with the ball. 

Full time Stevenage Ladies 8-0 Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies

  The final whistle blows and Stevenage Ladies celebrate having successfully retained the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup for the 1st time. A dominant performance an 8-0 win. Some well taken goals amongst those. On top right from the off and never let their opponents have any time on the ball. A fantastic effort from Hoddesdon to reach their 1st ever County Cup Final couldn’t get to grips with Stevenage on the day nevertheless should be proud of their achievement.

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Winners – Stevenage Ladies

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 She’s already got one of these but an easy choice once again for today’s Women’d Football East – Player of the Match. Dominating the midfield with great vision in passing and timing of her runs, especially in the 1st half along with scoring twice is Stevenage Ladies, Chloe Gunn.

Enjoyed my 1st final of the season, plenty more to follow. My thanks to the staff at Hertfordshire FA today for their assistance, everyone was very helpful always appreciated. Lastly my congratulations to Stevenage Ladies on successfully retaining the County Cup.

Match Report – Ipswich Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

Sunday 25th February

A trip down into Suffolk today to watch a match from the FAWPL South East Division One. with 4th placed Ipswich Town Ladies taking on Cambridge United WFC in 6th.

  Been a while since I’ve been to the Goldstar Ground, home of Felixstowe & Walton FC and Ipswich Town Ladies now into their 2nd season as a regular at the venue. Always good to to see a club advertising the presence of a female side at their club too upon entry.

  A good season for Ipswich Town Ladies have been in an amongst the top 4 all season, at one point with Leyton Orient WFC and Milton Keynes Dons Ladies looking to push AFC Wimbledon Ladies all the way for top spot. A defeat at Leyton Orient WFC denting their own title hopes earlier in the season AFC Wimbledon have since moved on to take a commanding lead at the top of the table going 11 points clear. Ipswich Town Ladies have games in hand on the leaders but even with maximum points know only a slip up from AFC Wimbledon will let them back into the race now. things ca change however and Ipswich Town are aiming to finish the season as high as they can having won 8 of the 13 games they have played so far. Have Ipswich Town Talk helping with the media and they are doing a fantastic job helping promote them and adding to their exposure.

  Cambridge United WFC were in Ipswich’s position last season challenging for the title. This time around with alot of changes at the start of the season haven’t reached those heights are currently 6th in the table with the even record of 5 wins 5 draws and 5 losses from the 15 they have played very tight in the middle of the South East Division One table a late run of form could yet propel them up the table threaten the top 4, whilst keeping an eye on the sides below who fancy their chances of a top half finish. 

   Both sides are the leading women’s football sides in their respective counties and are going strong to once again retain their County Cups usually a close game between the sides. A win for Ipswich Town Ladies moves them up a place into 3rd.

  The last time I was here the new clubhouse and changing rooms were just a building site the foundations barely laid. The finished product is very impressive. The main building housing the bar and kitchen plenty of food and drink to chose from hot and cold. The changing rooms adjoining is an excellent environment for the Ipswich Town Ladies players to call home. Through the clubhouse out onto the pitch nice and wide surrounded by housing lost ball in gardens a highly likely occurrence. Promised to be a very cold weekend so I was fingers crossed Sunday morning the game would be on the Sunday was high in the sky however doing it’s best to warm thing’s up still bitterly cold bright and dry it was a good footballing afternoon. 

The new clubhouse at Felixstowe & Walton

Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Sian Fagg, Jacqueline Ball, Nicole Pannifer, Lindsey Cooper, Harriet Petley, Cassandra Craddock, Amanda Crump (C), Zoe Cossey, Sophie Welton, Natasha Thomas & Miagh Downey. Subs – Jordan Arnoup, Jade Henry & Gemma Moore.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Savannah Smith, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Carolyn Sarafian, Laura Baker, Lauren Cartwright, Faith Hewitt, Amber Cantwell, Laura Bright (C) & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Michaela Dortch, Teonie Peyton & Lauren Gibson. 

It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Cambridge wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks with Ipswich lined up opposite their backs to the sun wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. A lively start to the game both sides looking to press the ball sees the ball lost by either side, Faith Hewitt looking to get clear down the left the ball out for a throw up the other end Miagh Downey is released into space down the left but can’t keep the ball in play. 

  Ipswich from a throw in left side work the ball in a neat triangle inside the Cambridge half before the final ball is sent in on the diagonal into the box , an easy gather for Cambridge goalkeeper Savannah Smith making her 2nd appearance since joining from Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. Cambridge win a free-kick wide right on halfway as Amber Cantwell is upended the ball played long up into the area won by Cambridge captain Laura Bright playing up top along side Kelley Blanchflower this afternoon the ball knocked out into the midfield the first time strike looks to be on Ipswich are quick to converge and regain possession.

Ipswich’s Cassie Craddock with Cambridge’s Laura Baker

   Cassie Craddock gets hold of the ball in the midfield for Ipswich moving right plays it forwards for Sophie Welton up the line she runs on with it cutting her cross back towards the top of the area, Ipswich captain Amanda Crump jumping to head the ball the looping ball angling towards the goal, Emma Jenkins gets behind it to head the ball away from danger. The tempo is very fast time on the ball at a premium Cambridge press winning the ball can’t keep it for long before Ipswich get back at them a little scrappy at times. Ipswich win a throw on the right side inside the Cambridge half between them Welton and Downey win a corner kick.

  GOAL! Coming up to 15 minutes on the clock Ipswich open the scoring from the corner kick Crump the taker a good delivery inswinging into the middle of the six yard box, Smith gets her gloves to the ball knocks it away the ball falling towards the top of the area Natasha Thomas has lost her marker, coming onto the falling ball strikes it first time the ball evading everyone and flying into the back of the net 1-0.

Natasha Thomas puts Ipswich Town Ladies into the lead

   The ball is sent forwards through the middle Blanchflower making a run across the Ipswich defence peels away in behind after it, Sian Fagg comes racing out to the edge of her area sliding in to claim the ball before the Cambridge striker can reach it. Bright and Blanchflower combine as Cambridge regain possession through Laura Baker the ball on by Bright left side Blanchflower in behind crosses into the area the ball going long Cantwell retrieves over on the right help from Jenkins the ball is fired back into the area the header won by Ipswich’s Lindsey Cooper. 

   Bright and Blanchflower with more good combination play in attack for Cambridge, Bright playing the ball on down the left makes a forwards run into the centre as Blanchflower squares the ball into her the ball is struck early 20 yards out swerves away from goal. Hewitt with a clever pass into Blanchflower who controls on her chest back to goal Lauren Cartwright makes the midfield run going beyond her Blanchflower putting the ball into her, taking it into the area left of goal Jac Ball and Hannah Petley close Cartwright down prevent her getting a shot away. 

Ipswich Town Ladies, Hannah Petley

  Welton has swapped sides with Zoe Cossey now on the right she is picked put by Petley bringing the ball out from the back, Cossey checks her run coming inside towards the top right corner of the area her shot/cross goes wide out at the far post. Cossey takes a knock for her efforts as she tracks back well to tackle Bennett as the full back goes past Hewitt on the overlap getting the return pass blocking the cross Bennett catches Cossey in the ankle the winger getting the free-kick.

Faith Hewitt with the ball for Cambridge United WFC

   A wide pitch both sides are looking to cross the ball in more than one cross ending up behind the goal. Runs through the middle are limited, Baker and Cartwright for Cambridge and Craddock and Crump for Ipswich doing a good job breaking up play. Cossey has a go picking up the ball wanting to run with it Hewitt chases her infield and slides in to win the ball. Downey comes deep to receive the ball a good turn and pass out to Cossey on the move down the right screws her cross onto the roof of the Cambridge net. Cambridge are unhappy with so of the refereeing decisions Blanchflower appearing to have her shirt tugged as she tries to spin in behind to attack the box, The referee having a word with the Cambridge bench.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Kelley Blanchflower

    Cambridge press on down the right with the ball Bright with Cantwell win the visitors a corner kick the ball is played out towards the top of the area met by Hewitt her strike is sent high over the crossbar. Cartwright is fouled as she brings the ball forwards taken short into Cantwell right she wins a throw put into Bright she holds the ball up rolled back into Cantwell her cross lifted into the box is won by Cooper. 

Keep your eyes on the ball

   Late into the 1st half is an even game quality in the final third lacking the hard pressing game continues in midfield, a 50/50 ball is won by Cambridge goes long forwards Blanchflower is onto it running clear of the Ipswich defence into the box right of goal Fagg comes running out sliding in brings Blanchflower down the referee points to the spot, PENALTY! Fagg is carded as Cantwell places the ball on the spot. Looks to place the ball to the keepers left, Fagg reads it however and throwing herself to the left makes a comfortable looking saves holding onto the ball.

Ipswich Town Ladies, goalkeeper Sian Fagg

 The opportunity for Cambridge to level the scores gone the game continues at a furious pace the ball from one end to the other possession lost too easily. Cantwell shes the ball played into her path as she makes a forwards run can’t bring it under control as Fagg closes her down to claim. Kayleigh-Anne Burt with the forwards pass for Bright on for Blanchflower a throw won on the left Cambridge get the ball into the Ipswich area, the home defence scramble it away Cambridge reclaim the ball come on again left side Hewitt on for Bennett the cross in towards the near post, Petley meeting the ball sees it skip up off her body to land onto the roof of her own net. A good delivery from the corner on the left the ball flying across the six yard box Carolyn Sarafain coming in at the far post can’t quite get on the end of it. 

Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 1-0 Cambridge United WFC

   A narrow lead for Ipswich at half-time 1-0 thanks to Natasha Thomas. A fast paced first half but overall scrappy the tempo affecting play to a degree no one with any time to settle on the ball. Both managers frustrated few chances in the final 3rd the midfield has seen alot of the action fairly even very finely balanced with the 2nd half to come. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Carrie Bennett

  No changes for either side at half-time as Ipswich get the 2nd half underway. Cambridge with an early opportunity to put the ball into the Ipswich box winning a free-kick out wide on the right. Jenkins to take, sends the ball long towards the far post Cartwright with a good jump gets her head to the ball but can’t get enough on it to deflect it in towards goal runs wide out of play for the goal kick. Cambridge have started the 2nd half the better making progress on the left win a corner the delivery towards the top of the area flicked in towards goal, Fagg claims the ball inside her six yard box. 

Cambridge’s Lauren Cartwright looking to hold up the ball

  GOAL! Cambridge bright start to the 2nd half is undone as Ipswich get the ball up the other end quickly to double their lead. Cossey winning the ball at the back playing it long up towards Downey in the centre, the Cambridge defence looking to shield the ball as Smith comes racing out to lay claim to the ball. Downey is tenacious as she does well to get around her marker at the top of the area getting her foot onto the ball as she goes to ground pushing it past the advancing Smith and on into the back of the net beyond 2-0. 

Miagh Downey doubles the lead for Ipswich Town Ladies

   Hewitt is fouled in a dangerous position in front of the Ipswich area left of the D 25 yards out, Bright starting the 2nd half deeper in midfield to take goes for goal her effort on target lacking the pace or height to trouble Fagg. Baker is in an advanced position central as the ball is crossed into her from the right goes with the outside of her right foot attempting to play Hewitt in behind her ball going long runs out of play far post. Craddock with a good tackle wins the ball her pass out out to the right Downey gives chase sends her cross behind the Cambridge goal.

  GOAL! 15 minutes into the 2nd half and Cambridge pull a goal back. Players drifting over to the left side as Cambridge build good work from Blanchflower as she receives the ball holding it up before sending a cross in across the top of the area finding Cantwell unmarked 20 yards out makes no mistake as she meets the ball sending her shot angling into the back of the net past Fagg before the keeper can move 2-1.

Ipswich’s Nicole Pannifer with Cambridge’s Amber Cantwell

   Soon after Cambridge make their 1st change of the game bringing Sarafian off sending on Lauren Gibson the striker joining Blanchflower up top Bright who started the game in attack is now back in defence alongside Burt. A handball spotted by the referee as Cambridge attack on the right the free-kick awarded Baker over it as players come forwards from the back the delivery towards the far post the ball knocked down into the middle of the area Bright closest tries to put the ball back over her shoulder in towards goal is blocked rebounds to Gibson right of goal six yards out she gets a shot away too many Ipswich bodies to get through the shot it kept out. Ipswich counter getting the ball up the other end Thomas looking to get into the box left side, Jenkins going with her does enough to put her off checking back Thomas tries to pick out Welton far post Burt with the interception. 

  Cossey on the ball runs forwards taking it a long way before getting into a crossing position left side puts a high ball into the box the target again Welton running in gets her head on the dropping ball but can’t direct it on target. The game is stretched Cambridge after another goal Hewitt lays the ball on for Blanchflower left side her shot in towards the near post covered by Fagg. Downey has a chance to shoot from the top of the box, Smith behind it all the way catches safely. Blanchflower is down far side need treatment. Ipswich make their 1st change, Downey the player giving way. Jade Henry coming on up top. 

Zoe Cossey on the move with the ball for Ipswich Town Ladies

  GOAL! Closing in on the final 10 minutes Ipswich break to extend their lead the ball won in midfield by Crump comes to Thomas she takes it on evading a rash challenge has space to carry the ball into on the left, wide of the area checks her run has time to look up and sends a shoot angling in over Smith and into the goal beyond 3-1. 

Blanchflower needs to come off for Cambridge as they make their 2nd change Teonie Peyton taking her place. Jenkins is fouled as she looks to get forwards down the right. Wide of goal it’s the full back over it to take sent long towards the far post Ipswich have plenty back to win the ball and get the ball clear. Cambridge make their final change Jenkins coming off to be replaced by Michaela Dortch at right back. Ipswich make another change too Cossey coming off with Gemma Moore entering the field. The home side break quickly Thomas playing Welton in Cambridge recover quickly to win the ball back. 

Ipswich Town Ladies captain, Amanda Crump

  Not long left on the clock the game is scrappy Crump and Craddock breaking it up in the middle free-kick are given away by both sides some frustration on display. Ipswich make their final change Jordan Arnoup introduced Welton giving way. The substitute in to win the ball back as Ipswich finish strongly determined not to concede another goal. Cantwell takes a knock fouled down the right the ball played down the line Pannifer putting it out for the throw. One last attack for Cambridge the ball played into Gibson top of the area lays it back out for Cantwell wide right her long distance strike wide across the area.    

Full time Ipswich Town Ladies 3-1 Cambridge United WFC

   I really enjoyed this game even if ultimately it was a scrappy affair, two energetic and committed sides on display especially in the middle of the park. Few chances created and balls into the final third going to waste. The goals scored were nevertheless very well taken. Ipswich winning 3-1 in the end will be happy with the 3 points that lift them up to 3rd in the South East Division One table. Cambridge will be disappointed in the end the goals they conceded all could have been avoided. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Never gets any easier choosing the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. This afternoon being no exception a real battle in the middle of the park, no time afforded on the ball and although Craddock ran her close today’s award goes to the Ipswich captain Amanda Crump.

My thanks as always to both sides with their help with the team line-ups today although they are two sides who I know very well, always pays to check however. 

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Watford Ladies

Thursday 22nd February

 Football action from FAWSL 2 this Thursday evening a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Watford Ladies.

 A solid start to life for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies in FAWSL 2 since winning FAWPL Playoff as Southern Division Champions in May 2017. A good run at the start of the season seeing them sitting 6th in the table on 10 points, a difficult spell of 7 straight defeats in league and cup coming to an end last Sunday at home to Oxford United Women over turning a 1 goal deficit to win the game 2-1. Will look to build on that result in tonight local derby match at home to Watford Ladies. A transitional period for the FAWSL as it is revamped ahead of the new season with new licences being issued Tottenham have applied to retain their FAWSL 2 position for next season.  

 Watford Ladies are founder members of FAWSL 2 have struggled in recent seasons, signs were there that thing’s had started to turn the corner under coach Keith Boanas. Were undone somewhat with the announcement the club wouldn’t be applying for an FAWSL licence next season. This has led to Boanas leaving his position along with a some players. Armand Kavaja taking over as first team manager. Have added a few new faces recently, former Swindon Town Ladies captain, Samantha Hallsworth, midfielder Katherine Huggins from C&K Basildon Ladies and most recently, Georgie O’Halloran form FAWPL South East Division One leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies. League results haven’t gone their way Watford adrift at the bottom of the FAWSL 2 table have just the one point on the board after 7 games. 

  Cheshunt FC the venue tonight under the lights always busy whenever you pull into the carpark training pitches beyond the main pitch. A bar along with hot food and drinks available. A wide pitch a dry evening the sun down getting very chilly as the sides emerged from the changing rooms ready for kick-off.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Chloe Morgan, Ashleigh Neville, Ryah Vyse, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Josie Green, Coral-Jade Haines, Wendy Martin, Sarah Wiltshire, Bianca Baptiste & Lucia Leon. Subs – Chloe Crook, Hannah Mackenzie, Maya Vio, Katie O’Leary & Lauren Pickett.

  Watford Ladies starting XI – Frances Kitching, Charlotte Kerr, Antonia Gregoriou, Rebecca McShane, Samantha Hallsworth, Anneka Nuttall (C), Emily Hill, Katherine Huggins, Leanne Bell, Adekite Fatuga-Dada & Helen Ward. Subs – Weronika Baronowska, Linda Afuakwah, Andie Dickens, Mollie Dench & Georgia 0’Halloran.

It’s Watford to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing yellow shirts with red shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. The ball is played forwards Tottenham win it at the back out to the left down the line into Wendy Martin she picks put Sarah Wilshire bursting forwards her diagonal all aimed for Bianca Baptiste arriving in the box coming in from the right, Charlotte Kerr coming with her from left back does well to get her head on the high ball does enough to stop it falling cleanly to Baptiste the ball dropping to the striker doesn’t get a solid connection as she goes to strike the ball 1st time the ball cleared out to the right side as Tottenham pile players forwards Josie Green looking to fire the ball back into the area is blocked and cleared by the Watford defence.

   A fast and bright start to the match from Tottenham as they come forwards, winning a throw on the right Lucia Leon combines with Baptiste the ball worked well between them Leon played into the area on the byline looks to fire a cross in towards goal, the ball intercepted by Samantha Hallsworth put behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good ball played into the middle of the six yard box from the right Watford win the header the ball knocked out to the far post and volleyed clear. The visitors looking to counter attack lose possession Tottenham with a quick turn around the ball finding Baptiste breaking clear on the right charging into the area with the ball shots from the angle the rising ball striking the near post before being deflected out of play.

     Hallsworth with a timely interception cuts out an attempted through ball in the middle of the park looking to release Leon. The ball played forwards Watford unable to make it stick it comes back again the long ball out to Baptiste moving clear on the right once more plays a diagonal ball high into the box too much on it for Wiltshire arriving at the far post to keep in play. Katherine Huggins looks to get an attacking move going for Watford on the left side winning the ball plays it inside to Helen Ward before going on looking for the return pass in behind, Ward plays it forwards Ashleigh Neville going with Huggins intercepting the pass.

   Frances Kitching in the Watford goal makes a great save off Baptiste as the attacker strikes the all 1st time as it comes to her inside the area. Tottenham are looking strong Neville from right back, Ryah Vyse on the left both getting forwards to support the attack Baptiste and Wiltshire ensuring the play stays spread on either flank too. A couple of Tottenham attacks are halted by the offside flag. Wiltshire though is onside on the left as the ball comes into her run taking it on into the box Kitching comes sliding out to win the ball clattering into Wiltshire as she follows through. 

   A burst of pace from Adekite Fatuga-Dada on the right for Tottenham leaves her marker in her wake before swinging in a cross into the area coming near post Neville tracking across is there to get her head on the ball to clear. Fatuga-Dada with another attempt to put the ball into the box moments later sees her effort caught by goalkeeper Chloe Morgan. A brief respite for Watford as Tottenham continue to press forwards winning the ball in the middle Coral-Jade Haines breaking up play well supported by Green the Wiltshire and Baptiste ready to break on either wing. Watford get a sniff up the other en as Ward latches onto a sloppy ball at the back 20 yards out lines up a shot her attempt driven straight at Morgan the keeper saving comfortably.

GOAL! 19 minutes played and Tottenham take the lead a great ball from Haines sees Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the left side running clear with the ball into the box hits the shot hard the ball flying over Kitching into the back of the net 1-0.

   The ball lost from the restart Tottenham push players forwards an attempted through ball aimed for Wiltshire in the left intercepted by Watford’s Antonia Gregoriou gets the ball back to Kitching to kick up field. An ambitious attempt from Baptiste from all of 35 yards out her strike isn’t too far over the bar as it flies over Kitching. Wiltshire with a high ball into the area from the left wing sees Neville who has covered alot of ground already this evening the furthest forwards at the near post inside the six yard box controls the ball on her thigh before striking it on the volley over the goal. 

GOAL! Haines with another fantastic ball finds Neville breaking clear on the right side going on into the box her cross is fired low along the goal face Lucia Leon arriving in the centre putting the ball over the line to score at the 2nd attempt as Watford can’t scramble it clear 2-0 26 minutes on the clock. 

  Tottenham are dominating coming forwards in waves the Watford defence under pressure the all won’t stick further up the pitch. Baptiste brings the ball on through the centre Leon ahead of her top of the area holds up well shifting the ball out to her right finding room to squeeze a shot away the ball drifting wide of the near post.  Baptiste right side with the cross into the area won by Rebecca McShane in the middle the ball up field Haines winning back possession out to Baptiste right down the line a cross from deep claimed by Kitching near post Watford attempt a counter in comes to nothing the ball quickly back up field into Baptiste central she jinks left then right top of the box before pulling her shot wide of the target. 

   Renee Hector and captain Jenna Schillaci comfortable at the back winning any Watford high balls played forwards. Ward alert to any poor ball at the back however from Tottenham latches onto a pass 20 yards out lines up a shot Haines is quick to race back in from midfield to tackle and deny the chance. Ward moves the ball out to the right outside the box looking for space for a shot getting it away the ball is blocked by Vyse. 

 Wiltshire in a similar position to where she scored strikes the ball goalwards comes down into the six yard box off the crossbar. Appears to then be put out of play by a Watford defender however the referee despite Tottenham protests signals a goal-kick. 

GOAL! Late into the 1st half and Tottenham extend their lead the ball won from a goal kick inside their half taken on to the byline right side and a dangerous cross is fired in along the goal face a yard in from of goal Leon can’t quite reach it in the centre Wiltshire arriving far post can as she meet the ball sending it home for a 3-0 lead right on the stroke of half-time.

 Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-0 Watford Ladies

   A dominant 1st half from Tottenham a 3-0 lead could well have been more have had Watford on the ropes for much of the half giving the visitors very little of the ball showing great movement when coming forwards. Is only a matter of whether or not they will continue to be so ruthless in the 2nd half or Watford came somehow find a way back into the game. 

It’s Tottenham to get the 2nd half started a change for Watford, Kerr off the pitch Linda Afuakwah joining the attack. The home side winning an early corner from the left Kitching with the punch to send the near post delivery over for a corner on the right this one landing in the box bouncing Neville strikes the ball on the volley sending it high over the goal. Watford get the ball forwards Emily Hill with the pass to release Fatuga-Dada on the right Tottenham have the threat covered. 

Martin gets onto the end of a loose Watford pass inside the visitors half, McShane stepping out well from the back for to get the tackle in and win the ball, played up through the middle into captain Anneka Nuttall she is brought down in a dangerous position 30 yards from goal a free-kick awarded she picks herself up to take it. Goes for the shot the ball fired over the bar. A sloppy ball at the back for Tottenham  falls to Fatuga-Dada on the right comes inside evading a challenge before shooting her effort flying straight into Morgan who takes cleanly in side her six yard box. Tottenham break forwards Baptiste moving to the left holds her run perfectly to stay onside squares it to Wiltshire in the middle looks to move the ball to the right Watford close her down win the ball.

 GOAL! A bright start to the 2nd half from Tottenham sees them extend their lead in the 53rd minute Wiltshire with a well taken goal to seal her hat-trick. The Tottenham attack clustered central for a change as the ball is fired into them for distance Leon taking it on into the box looks to have overrun the ball as Kitching goes to ground Wiltshire to her left gets onto the end of the ball opening up her body to curl the ball over the keeper to score 4-0. 

Kitching is the busier of the two goalkeepers by far alert she claims the ball at the near post as Baptiste gets a cross in from the byline on the right. Leon picks out Wiltshire getting free on the left her ball into the area whipping over the Watford goal. Tottenham steal in to win possession from a poor Watford ball at the back Leon with the shot her low ball saved by Kitching going to ground. Nuttall with the ball for Watford drives on through the middle space to shot Schillaci is in the way to block the powerful strike.

Baptiste is getting frustrated as she sees chance after chance go begging the ball played into her on the right her low diagonal ball towards goal finds it’s way through the Watford defence runs narrowly wide of the far post. A give and go between Leon and Baptiste at the top of the box right side Leon going on making a near post run pull the trigger as the ball is returned to her Kitching making a brilliant save with her legs to keep the ball out. Tottenham make their 1st change of the night bringing on Katie O’Leary for Martin.

 Good defending from Hill at the near post from a Tottenham corner on the right for Watford getting a firm head on the ball. Hallsworth with a good tackle to stop Leon as she attempts to run through into the area with the ball. Kitching called into action making a great save from a Leon header as Baptiste screws a cross in from the byline on the left. The home side continuing to dominate.  A corner for Tottenham on the right Kitching coming for the ball near post gets a glove on the ball falls to Wilshire at the top of the area looks to move it to the right appears to be upended appeals for a penalty but the referee waves play on.

    Watford make a 2nd change Fatuga-Dada coming off Georgie O’Halloran coming on. Tottenham press the ball played into O’Leary her pass on for Leon not closed down shoots from 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. Baptiste with a strong run on the ball coming into the area from the right stays on her feet as she rides a sliding tackle gets a shot in from close range Kitching saving instinctively with her legs at the near post. A 2nd change for Tottenham Hannah Mackenzie comes on to go into the back-line replacing Schillaci. 

 Little opportunity for Watford up the other end Hill attempts a shot from all of 35 yards out the ball well over. The visitors working hard in defence as Tottenham keep coming on wanting more goals. Baptiste shes another long range shot whistle narrowly over the crossbar. The final change for Tottenham sees Leon brought off up front to be replaced by Lauren Pickett. Hallsworth in the way to block a strike from Haines the ball coming straight back to the Tottenham midfielder she has her head in her hands as she sees Kitching tip the ball over the bar.

    The corner to Tottenham on the right, Watford make their final change before it is taken, Mollie Dench coming on for Gregoriou. The corner played into the six yard box is scrambled away to the top of the box Mackenzie running onto the ball strikes it hard for Tottenham the shot charged down. An injury to Bell as she gets the ball into the box up the other end taking a knock is helped of the pitch to receive treatment all their subs made Watford finish the last 5 minutes of the game with 10 players.

 GOAL! Tottenham capitalise getting up the other end to score the ball through the middle picking out Baptiste who has timed her run perfectly her touch putting her clear on into the area central opens up her body to stab the ball wide of Kitching to get the goal her play has deserved at last 5-0.

   GOAL! One goal for Baptiste quickly becomes two in the latter stages of the game play stretched Tottenham winning the ball break quickly Baptiste in a central position runs clear towards the area after the ball almost a carbon copy of her 1st goal she has time to open her body once more and steer the ball wide of Kitching as she goes to ground 6-0. 

   Morgan ensures their no late drama up the other end as she confidently claims a cross flung into the box from the right by Ward. Kitching up the other end coming out to close Wiltshire down as the attacker gets clear into the box from the left for Tottenham the final whistle blows Tottenham winning for the 2nd successive match move up to 5th in the FAWSL 2 table. 

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 6-0 Watford Ladies

   A confident and dominant display from Tottenham from start to finish relentless coming forwards and not prepared to give anything away at the other end Haines breaking up play well in the middle as the attackers in front posed a constant threat. One to forget for Watford all they can do as a team is move onto the next one battled hard at the back Kitching with some fine saves but in the end they were well beaten.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A good all round performance form Tottenham this evening a few contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match have chosen Sarah Wiltshire who showed great movement throughout the match playing wide left getting her hat-trick taking all 3 goals well.

   Thanks to Tottenham for their assistance tonight haven’t done a midweek game for a while good to get one in.

Match Report – Silver End United Ladies v Frontiers Ladies

Sunday 18th February

 A trip to Essex today to watch a game from the Essex Women’s Trophy. At the semi-finals stage as Silver End United Ladies host Frontiers Ladies the current holders looking to defend the trophy.

   A new look for the Essex Women’s Trophy this season run by the Essex FA with the sides knocked out of the early rounds in the County Cup going on to contest the Trophy. 

  Silver End United Ladies play their football in the ERWFL Northern Division a tough season league wise struggling for form and numbers plus injuries earlier on in the season sit bottom of the table. Recent results have improved with progression in the Essex Women’s Trophy seeing the side with an opportunity to reach a final and challenge for silverware.

  Frontiers Ladies are into their 2nd season since being formed in 2016 the Harlow based side winning the Essex Women’s Division One title at the 1st attempt going unbeaten dropping just 2 points along the way. A double last season too as they won the Essex Women’s Trophy in its old format. Have started this season strongly too laying 2nd in the Essex Women’s Premier Division still yet to be beaten in the league games in hand on leaders Hatfield Peverel Ladies.

   In terms of the women’s football pyramid there is just one place between the sides going into today’s semi-final clash. Both sides entering the Trophy in the 1st Round, Silver End United Ladies were at home to Essex Women’s Division One side Southend United Ladies progressing into the quarter finals with a 2-0 win. Drawn away to Hutton Ladies Reserves they were awarded an away win against the Premier Division side. Frontiers Ladies began their Trophy defence away from home to fellow Essex Premier Division side Harlow Town Ladies Reserves, a 3-1 win taking them into the quarter finals where they faced another Premier Division side at home this time to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies again the result 3-1 to see Frontiers progress.

  The venue for today’s semi-final Conker Park the home ground of Silver End United FC part of a larger sporting centre right in the heart of Silver End itself adjoining pitches hosting a number of youth sides aswell as the senior mens and women’s sides. Hot and cold refreshments available. The pitch for today’s match well used nice and wide, alot of rain recently it was sticky underfoot. A dry day however the sun was even out a few clouds around but no rain forecast. 

Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Emily Bambrick, Danielle Warnes, Lindsey Cowell, Roxanne Gardner (C), Stephanie A’Len, Danielle Bragg, Rebecca Donnelly, Juliana Marques, Megan Jiggins & Angela Holden. Subs- Toni Brown, Laura Borein, Jennifer Stanhope & Georgia Bryan.

Frontiers Ladies starting XI – Rebecca Tyson, Adele Hughes, Jackie Day, Shelley Anglin-Liiv, Kelly Holsworth (C), Anna Freeman, Jill Bartholomew, Ann Anstey, Freya Anglin-Liiv, Sharon Ferguson & Kay Foy. Subs – Vikki Silvester, Poppy Bennett, Loren Delamere, Emma Best & Hayley King.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Silver End to kick-off the 1st half, wearing light blue shirts with navy blue shorts and socks with Frontiers lined up opposite wearing pink shirts and socks with black shorts. The Essex FA appointing 3 officials for the game. An early free-kick awarded to Silver End inside their own half the ball played up towards the top of the area, attacker Megan Jiggins getting her head on the ball knocks it on into the area taking a deflection off a Frontiers defender on the way a corner signalled. Silver End’s captain, Roxanne Gardner to take from the right a good delivery into the top of the area looking for Lindsey Cowell the central defender up from the back can’t quite bring the ball under control as it squirms past her across to the right Emily Bambrick running onto the ball 20 yards out goes for goal flies over the crossbar a touch from a Frontiers player sees another corner signalled. Frontiers defend the ball at the near post.

A bright start from the home sides Silver End push their attacking players forwards Juliana Marques released into space on the right gets down the line with the ball wins Silver End another corner kick, Gardner’s delivery whipped in across the face of goal turned goalwards at close range bodies around her goalkeeper Rebecca Tyson gets something on it the ball kept out as Silver End hands go up in appeal for handball, play continues the ball cleared out of the area a shot comes back in low and fast, Tyson with a good save diving to her right. 

Silver End United Ladies, Juliana Marques

The corner count is mounting for Silver End right side again the ball fired in towards the top of the area is met by a Silver End head the ball driven wide of the near post. Frontiers struggling to get any forwards momentum in the early stages Silver End pressing the ball well. A half chance comes the visitors way as Silver End goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley doesn’t get any height on the back pass rolled into her the ball running straight to Anna Freeman in a central position out she sends the diagonal ball out to the right side Freya Anglin-Liiv getting in behind the Silver End defence scuffs her shot from the edge of the area dragging the ball wide of goal. 

  Jill Bartholomew in the middle of the park for Frontiers gets onto the ball coming left the pass up the line for Kay Foy in attack, Cowell comes across to defend for Silver End. Again the same combination moments later Bartholomew up the line for Foy the attacker getting her cross in from the byline this time flashing across the face of goal, Anglin-Liiv racing in at the far post can’t quite get a touch on the ball to deflect it into the back of the net. 

  The visitors win the ball at the back Shelley Anglin-Liiv into Bartholomew the ball played up field Sharon Ferguson the target controls the high ball well bringing it down into her body with Freeman making a run forwards central the ball played into her path she strikes it from 20 yards out the low effort saved by Streetley coming out to meet her dropping low to her right getting a glove on the ball, Gardner back to kick the ball out of play.

Rebecca Donnelly with the ball on the left fro Silver End looks to take on the Frontiers defence evading a clumsy challenge gets a shot away with defenders and goalkeeper drawn to the ball past them all everyone turns expecting it to bounce into the empty net beyond, Marques is arriving at the far post as it bounces just wide unsure if she got a touch or not either way the flag is up for offside. Kelly Holsworth Frontiers captain is down in the middle after turning her ankle in a fall needs treatment but is cleared to come back on. 

Frontiers, Jackie Day with Silver End United’s Rebecca Donnelly

A good ball played over the top of the Frontiers defence by Silver End’s Stephanie A’Len looks to have sent Donnelly through on goal coming in from the left, the flag is up though against Angela Holden who was offside in the middle. Silver End with another corner right side Gardner with another good delivery into the middle of the area, Holden trying to let the ball run across her can’t get a shot away as Frontiers scramble the ball away look to clear the ball quickly up field is won back and played forwards Holden springing the offside trap this time a good starting position from Tyson sees the goalkeeper get to the ball first.

Silver End United Ladies, Roxanne Gardner

A competitive game no one given much time on the ball Ferguson looking to link up with Ann Anstey getting forwards the attack stopped by the officials flag. Ferguson looking to hold the ball up turns well 30 yards from goal plays it high into the area with Foy making the run, Streetley able to take the bouncing ball into her body before the striker can reach it. Danielle Warnes wins the ball at the back for Silver End as Ferguson controlling the ball on her chest hooks it on into the box looking for Freeman.

   A good spell from Frontiers more good hold up play by Ferguson slips the pass through for Anglin-Liiv on the right the flag up against her as she takes it on into the area. Silver End launch a rapid counter attack Gardner into Danielle Bragg the ball played forwards a vital interception from Frontiers Jackie Day at the back or the home side would have been through on goal. Jiggins gets the ball through for Holden, bearing down on the area, Day is with her as Tyson comes out of the area to clear the ball.

Frontiers Ladies, Jackie Day

GOAL! Late into the first half and the deadlock is broken comes unfortunately from an error, the game is being played at the fast tempo the ball end to end Frontiers are on the attack lose possession Silver End come forwards Holden released in behind the visitors defence left side towards the area, Tyson comes out to the edge to kick the ball away slips on the sticky surface landing on the ball, manages to recover enough to push it away from Holden but the ball comes straight into Jiggins to her left and 20 yards out wide of goal sends the ball into the empty net to make it 1-0.

   Marques with a burst of pace on the right runs onto the ball as Holden picks her out in the middle, Day comes across to defend for Frontiers putting the ball out for a throw in deep on the right form it Silver End win a corner.

 GOAL! Silver End double their lead from the set-piece have put pressure on the keeper inside her six yard box earlier on this time Gardner’s delivery is swung in close Jiggins a tall player coming towards the ball gets in front of Tyson and knocks the ball over the line for her 2nd of the game 2-0.

2 goals for Silver End United Ladies, Megan Jiggins

   More good link up play between Marques and Holden as Silver End attack down the right side the winger playing the ball inside to Holden before running on to receive the return pass, Day across just about gets there first putting it out for a corner on the right. The corner cleared Ferguson looks to get forwards for Frontiers is brought down in a central position inside the Silver End half. Holsworth over the ball, regular readers of The Round-Up will know the Frontiers captain is a threat from any set-piece presented to her, a long way out nevertheless goes for the shot, on target but Streetley has time to shuffle across her goal line and claim the ball.

Deep into 1st half injury time Silver End mount an attack Holden playing off the shoulder of the last Frontiers defender springing the offside trap, Adele Hughes getting back to slide in a win the ball on the edge of the area, knocked into the path of Donnelly she sends the ball goalwards from 20 yards out her effort bouncing wide across the face of goal.

Half-time Silver End United Ladies 2-0 Frontiers Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half played at a fast tempo, Silver End starting well, catching Frontiers a little slow out of the blocks early chances before Frontiers got into the game themselves becoming an even contest the opening goal coming from an unfortunate error at the back Silver End going on to double their lead always looked a threat from a corner. A 2-0 lead at half-time the tie far from settled.

A goalkeeper change for Frontiers at half-time Vikki Silvester replacing Tyson. The visitors getting the 2nd half underway. Start well Hughes winning the ball back puts in on for Freya Anglin-Liiv plays the ball into Freeman before getting the return ball and taking in onto the byline inside the box getting the better of her marker, sends the cross in the ball cut out and out behind by Cowell at the near post. Streetley coming into the crowd at the near post gloves the ball away for a 2nd corner. This one deeper Streetley with a confident claim in the centre of her 6 yard box. 

Frontiers, Kay Foy tries to find a way through the Silver End united defence

A throw high on the left for Silver End as they bring the ball forwards play stopped by the bane of a pitch with public access – dog mess – cleared up play resumes. Both sides take the opportunity to make an early change 2nd half, Marques coming off for Silver End, Jennifer Stanhope comes on in attack right side. Hayley King comes on for Frontiers in place of Anstey. Foy gets onto a loose ball for Frontiers up front taking it on to the byline squeezes a cross in looking for Anglin-Liiv making a run near post, Silver End have players back too successful defend. Another change for the home side, Bambrick coming off at left back Toni Brown coming on.

    The 2nd half more competitive than the 1st if anything, Frontiers working hard to try and find a reply. Offside decisions frustrating both sides but so quick is the turn around at times it’s easy to stray offside both back lines are keeping a good line too. Another change for Frontiers Holsworth still feeling her ankle injury from the 1st half coming off, Poppy Bennett coming on. 

 GOAL! Frontiers find the goal they were looking for early in the 2nd half, won at the back the ball played up into Ferguson just over halfway room to run with the ball sees the goalkeeper off her line and from 30 yards out goes to lob her, Streetley is a tall goalkeeper however the ball in up and over her before she came get back to stop it finding the back of the net 2-1 game on.

The moment Frontiers Ladies, Sharon Ferguson shoots to score and make it 2-1

Silver End look for an immediate response get forwards on the right side Stanhope playing the ball across the top of the area Jiggins sliding in for the ball as Silvester comes racing out of her goal going to ground the pair collide both injured the flag up for offside in either case, lengthy treatment for Jiggins who goes off the field to further strap up her right knee. Both striker and goalkeeper are okay to continue.

A throw on the left for Frontiers, Freeman on for Foy the striker can’t reach it before Gardner the ball cleared for a throw deep in the corner from it Frontiers win a corner before it is taken Silver End make a change, Georgia Bryan coming on for Holden goes up top. Very nearly the levelling goal from Frontiers but for a brilliant piece of goalkeeping from Streetley, the ball delivered into the six yard box near post area Ferguson with the snap shot two yards out, the ball deflected goalwards, Streetley instinctively stooping an outstretched glove into the balls path knocking it away her defence clearing the ball.

Frontiers, Adele Hughes keeps her eye on the ball

 All action Frontiers confident they can find a way back into the game push forwards risk the counter at the back Silver End ready to capitalise strong defending from both sides Cowell and Warnes for Silver End, Day covering  well for Frontiers, King gets the ball over the Silver End defence after good hold up play on the left, Foy breaking clear can’t get there before Streetley claims the ball. Offside’s continue frustrate Silver End, Jiggins making her protests known is warned once then when she throws the ball down into the ground after another call goes against her finds herself yellow carded.

Stephanie A’Len looks to get forwards for Silver End United Ladies

 Into the last 15 minutes A’Len fouled bringing the ball on for Silver End on halfway the ball played out to the right, Shelley Anglin-Liiv in with the tackle to regain possession for Frontiers. The crossfield ball into King on the right for the visitors in towards the top right hand corner of the area just outside she is brought down by Brown a free-kick awarded, Bartholomew on the ball goes for the shot flies over the bar near side. Hughes with a great tackle to win the ball for Frontiers pushed on into Ferguson in a central position 25 yards out goes for the early shot looking to lob the keeper once again Streetley is better positioned this time the ball lacking pace as she brings it down cleanly into her gloves.

Jiggins moves to the left to receive the ball puts in a diagonal pass towards the area Silvester claiming it before Bryan can reach it. Her goalkick played on through the middle coming to Ferguson 20 yards out looks to strike the ball 1st time doesn’t get a good connection the ball running along the ground gathered by Streetley. A change for both sides late on Laura Borein comes on for Silver End replacing Jiggins. Loren Delamere joins the action for Frontiers in place of Freya Anglin-Liiv.

Frontiers, Hayley King with Silver End United’s Toni Brown

 A fair bit of stoppage time to play due to injuries. The game stretched as Frontiers push forwards, Silver End looking comfortable at the back, Gardner coming inside to win the ball from Ferguson late on. The final whistle blows and Silver End win the game 2-1 to reach the Trophy final.

Full time Silver End United Ladies 2-1 Frontiers Ladies

  An entertaining cup tie, had a sneaky feeling it would be a close one and it certainly was. Competitive a sticky surface to play on. Both sides creating chances Silver End starting the better before Frontiers grew into the 1st half could have easily gone in level at half-time as it was Silver End capitalised on an error to open the scoring then doubled their advantage. Frontiers battled hard getting it back to 2-1 and only a brilliant piece of goalkeeping prevented an equaliser, Silver End defending well to hold onto their lead and claim the semi-final win ending Frontiers defence of the Trophy.

Silver End United Ladies will face ERWFL Division One South side, Hutton Ladies in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final after they beat Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies 6-1 at home in the other semi-final.  The date and venue for the Trophy final to be announced.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Another difficult one today picking this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders from both sides, Day strong at the back for Frontiers. Streetley with an excellent save, today’s Player of the Match goes to Silver End United’s, Megan Jiggins her two goals winning the semi-final was a threat in attack especially 1st half winning the ball supporting Holden through the middle.

Nice to watch a game in the sun for a change, an entertaining semi-final between two sides I have been keen to see this season. Competitive right to the final whistle. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today. Congratulations to Silver End United Ladies on reaching the final.

 

Match Report – Birmingham City Ladies v Chelsea Ladies

Saturday 10th February

 A first for Women’s Football East as FAWSL 1 makes it’s debut. Today’s game on a Saturday afternoon see’s Birmingham City Ladies hosting Chelsea Ladies at the Autotech Stadium in Solihull.

  Only new to this platform however as I have covered numerous FAWSL matches via my old Supporting Women’s Football Blog prior to turning all my focus to Women’s Football in the East of England, still I always intended to continue my coverage of the FAWSL just have needed a break with various thing’s going on, have missed it however and looking forwards to today’s match.

  The FAWSL switching to the winter season to fall back in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid. Entering another transitional period with a restructuring of the league new licencing rules and being opened up to new applicants the top tier requiring to be 100% professional come the new season. Huge challenges lay ahead.

  The season closing in on the halfway mark, Manchester City Women leading the way 2 unbeaten two points ahead of Chelsea Ladies themselves also unbeaten from 8 played. A win this afternoon will put Emma Hayes side top of the table for a few hours at least with Manchester City taking on 3rd placed Liverpool Ladies on Sunday. Anita Asante the clubs latest signing the England International having had a successful few years playing in Sweden.

Birmingham City Ladies sit in 5th place in the table, Marc Skinner taking over from David Parker in charge of the 1st team. 10 points from the 8 games they’ve played so far winning 3 and drawing one with 4 loses a tough challenge today against Chelsea a win will put Birmingham right behind the top for well placed to push on in the 2nd half of the season. Have German goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger back between the sticks after she was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the season having made a successful recovery.

The Automated Technology Stadium the venue for today’s game a cold and wet February day heavy rain on the way from Norfolk but settling down to a steady drizzle blowing strongly across the pitch cover at the ground behind both goals a wide pitch the mainstand housing the bar and changing room covered too. I’ve missed Birmingham’s burger van quite possibly the best in the FAWSL. But it isn’t quite the same without the ice cream van parked beside the pitch, not that I was craving a cornetto.

Birmingham City Ladies starting XI – Ann-Katrin Berger, Jess Carter, Meaghan Sargeant, Aoife Mannion, Kerys Harrop (C), Sarah Mayling, Hayley Ladd, Charlie Wellings, Marisa Ewers, Emma Follis & Ellen White. Subs – Hannah Hampton, Paige Williams, Abby-Leigh Stringer, Emily Westwood, Maddy Cusack, Lucy Quinn & Freda Ayisi.

Chelsea Ladies starting XI – Hedvig Lindhal, Maria Thorisdottir, Hannah Blundell, Anita Asante, Millie Bright, Ji So-Yun, Katie Chapman (C), Drew Spence, Crystal Dunn, Fran Kirby & Romana Bachmann. Subs – Carly Telford, Gemma Davison, Karen Carney, Maren Mjelde, Jonna Andersson & Erin Cuthbert.

It’s the home side to kick-off the 1st half, Birmingham all in blue with Chelsea lied up opposite in their all white away kit. A couple of balls a launched forwards by Birmingham runners testing the Chelsea back line. Charlie Wellings looking to make progress on the left Maria Thorisdottir defends for Chelsea. The visitors pressing up as a unit early on the ball played across their defence left to right Hannah Blundell sweeping an early cross into the Birmingham box, runners closing in no one can get on the end of it. Emma Follis picks up the ball for Birmingham taking it on attempts the through ball for Ellen White, Millie Bright intercepts and plays it back for goalkeeper Hedvig Lindhal to clear.

Birmingham City Ladies, Charlie Wellings

  Blundell with a strong run down the right getting to the byline her high looping cross lands on the top of the Birmingham crossbar, the assistants flag raised play is stopped for offside. Thorisdottir with the pass left side on for Kirby she powers her way towards the box a vital tackle from Meaghan Sargeant to deny her a shooting opportunity the ball sent behind at a cost however as the defender collides with on rushing goalkeeper, Katrin-Ann Berger. A break in play as Sargeant receives treatment on the pitch. 

The corner ball from the left is played in short as Ji So-Yun comes wanting the ball her pass played up towards the top of the area the cross flashed in towards the far post Kerys Harrop, Birmingham’s captain heading the ball out of the area Chelsea retain possession played into Anita Asante 20 yards out she shoots slightly scuffing the effort the ball skipping off the surface on target an outstretched Birmingham leg diverting it away from goal before being cleared. Chelsea have started well.

Chelsea Ladies, Anita Asante

Birmingham look to bring the ball on through the middle, Sarah Mayling coming forwards Follis gives her a forwards run, she tries to play the ball into her, Millie Bright coming across defends well for Chelsea. More good build up play from Birmingham, White picking up the ball right side comes down the line her pass inside for Mayling she sends it on across the field into Marisa Ewers sprinting down the left wing she picks out Follis at the top of the area left side of goal fires the shot in low, Hedvig Lindhal getting down well inside her six yard box to smother the ball.

Chelsea’s Drew Spence battling Birmingham’s Jess Carter for possession of the ball

   Crystal Dunn coming forwards on the left sends her pass on for Fran Kirby breaking in behind the Birmingham defence taking the ball into the area takes the ball past Berger as she dives at her feet in an attempt to get to the ball. Kirby’s progress is halted by a raised flag. Bright defends well again up against Ewers as Aoife Mannion plays the ball out from the back for Birmingham, the visitors counter attacking with purpose, Romana Bachmann is played through taking the ball into the area looks to try and take it past Berger and get a shot away, the goalkeeper doing well diving at her feet ad snatching out a glove to pull the ball safely into her body.

GOAL! Chelsea have pressed Birmingham closing anyone down quickly as the home side have possession Mayling is caught out as Kirby steals in to knock the ball past her run towards the area Dunn alert on the left Kirby sends the ball out to her heading into the box Dunn’s shot blocked Kirby is there to send her shot past Berger into the goal beyond 0-1.

Fran Kirby makes it 1-0 to Chelsea Ladies.

Chelsea are squeezing the pitch defending on the halfway line at times giving Birmingham very little room alot of space to exploit behind if they can pick out their strikers that though isn’t easy their defence given no time on the ball. White attempts to get clear on half-way, is tracked by Asante the defender putting in the tackle to win the ball. Great control from So-Yun as the ball comes ta her quickly her pass putting Kirby in behind the Birmingham defence, Berger coimng to close the attacker down makes a fantastic save at her feet. 

  White with good footwork in the middle takes the ball on picking out Wellings making a good break down the right wing her cross swung in near post is claimed confidently by Lindhal. Chelsea get the ball up the other end Dunn left side her cross flashed across the six yard box, Bachmann can’t connect far post the ball coming to Blundell just outside the area right side hits a strong shot in low towards goal Berger diving making an excellent save.

Birmingham City Ladies, Ellen White

Berger the busier of the two goalkeepers saves at the near post as Bachmann linking up with Dunn on the left sends the ball in near post. A rare opportunity for White inside the Chelsea area doing well as she picks up possession in the opposition half left side is closed down by three Chelsea players can’t get the ball in the chance gone Chelsea are quickly on the move the ball worked up field on the left a high ball into the area falling to Drew Spence she blazes her strike over the bar. Chelsea are certainly on top in the opening half hour Spence powerful on the ball winning it central comes in Bachmann ahead of her lays the ball on her shot it driven in towards goal from the edge of the area Berger with another great save diving to her left to deny her a goal.

Chelsea Ladies, Romana Bachmann

    Dunn breaking with the ball on left comes forwards cuts inside as Buchmann moves out of the way taking a defender with her the U.S international shooting the ball heading near post Berger saving again is keeping Birmingham in the game right now. Opportunities up the other end limited White doing her best to find some space drifts out wide Thorisdottir in to tackle and win the ball. A throw deep on the left nice work between Jess Carter, Mayling and White the pass into Ewers looking to strike the ball from the top of the area looses her footing as Chelsea swarm in to close her down.

   Spence win the crossfield ball for captain Katie Chapman on for Blundell breaking up the line her pass into Kirby, Mannion closing her down wins the ball back for Birmingham. Bachmann breaking clear in injury time sees her cross flash wide across the face of goal.  

Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-1 Chelsea Ladies

    A dominant display from Chelsea in the 1st half composed and confident working well as a unit squeezing the pitch everyone working well to close the ball down not affording anytime on the ball for Birmingham. Kirby opening the scoring and had it not been for some excellent stops from goalkeeper Berger, then the visitors might well be going into the changing room at the break with a bigger lead, as it stands at just the one goal Birmingham are far from out of it. Chances at the other end limited however Follis’ shot Lindhal’s only real test.

A change for the home side at half-time Sargeant coming off to be replaced by Paige Williams at left back. It’s Chelsea to get the 2nd half underway. Carter with some early defending to do does well as Spence breaks forwards into the box for Chelsea. The visitors keeping Birmingham pinned back in their own half. Kirby getting free on the left side takes the ball on, cries out in frustration as she see puts to much on her cross into the area with Bachmann and Spence making near and far post runs. 

  Follis gets forwards with ball closing in on the Chelsea area left side lays the ball back for Hayley Ladd positioned centrally she lays the ball out to Williams running down the wing her cross in deep towards the far post falls to Wellings can’t get enough on the ball to bring it down under control and shot Chelsea in to clear up the pitch. Thorisdottir putting her head on the ball inside the area to clear a Birmingham set-piece played in from the left. A tidy spell for Birmingham White stealing in to win the ball makes a jinking run forwards giving her room for a shot from 20 yards out her effort flashing wide across goal. The danger of having just a single goal lead 1 strike and Birmingham are back level.

Hayley Ladd getting her head on the ball for Birmingham

   Dunn gets away down the left her ball forwards towards Bachmann making a run into the area is just about intercepted by Ewers tracking back for Birmingham. Chelsea maintain their pressing game no one at the back for Birmingham allowed any time on the ball what so ever forcing misplaced passes. Great defending from Harrop for Birmingham inside the box as Chelsea push on down the right Dunn moving the ball between her feet on into Kirby at the top of the box her through ball central aiming for Bachmann the Birmingham captain close to her gets hold of the ball.

Birmingham City Ladies captain, Kerys Harrop with Chelsea’s Hannah Blundell.

  Dunn is impressive on the left side for Chelsea getting hold of the ball taking players on flashes a cross long across the six yard box. Dunn fed in again by Chapman plays a diagonal ball forwards into the area Bachmann with the run, Berger getting down claims the ball first. Blundell on the move down the right her pass inside for Kirby 25 yards out lays the ball across to Dunn moving into the area her effort is blocked by Carter. 

Crystal Dunn attacking for Chelsea Ladies

  Williams comes forwards with the ball on the left for Birmingham plays it on for Follis coming across to receive the ball bringing it inside puts it into White standing just inside the area she shoots first time the ball straight at Lindhal the keeper holding onto the ball. Chelsea make their 1st change, Bachmann the player coming off, Erin Cuthbert going on up front. Birmingham are having a few half chances White finding a little wriggle room now at the back threatens to break clear Asante recovers well however making up the ground to put in the blocking tackle as the striker goes to shoot.

Kerys Harrop, leaves Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert in a heap as she wins the ball

  Dunn plays the ball into Cuthbert outside the area she is upended giving Chelsea the free-kick in a dangerous position. So-Yun over the ball strikes it hard past the Birmingham wall drags her effort wide of Berger’s goal. Spence gets clear as she moves to the left charging on with the ball squares it into the area a vital cut out by Harrop as Cuthbert was free behind her.

  GOAL! Into the final 20 minutes and Chelsea double their advantage pushing players forwards as they attack the ball taken to the byline by Dunn her cross into the area evades everyone somehow comes racing out to the top left corner, Kirby has the sense to get out of the way So-Yun coming onto the ball in a much better position strikes it with a peach of a left foot the ball whistling past Berger into the top corner 0-2.

South Korean international, Ji So-Yun makes it 2-0 to Chelsea

Emma Hayes makes a change straight after the goal bringing off Spence and sending on bring on Norwegian international, Maren Mjelde. Birmingham come forwards Ladd with support from Follis looking to play a one two Bright reads it well for Chelsea getting in to win the ball. Berger pulls off another outstanding save as Chelsea break with purpose Dunn away on the left rolling the ball into the path of Cuthbert making a central run the goalkeeper getting down to stop the shot.

    A change from both sides Wellings coming off for Birmingham is replaced by Lucy Quinn. So-Yun coming off for Chelsea, Karen Carney the visitors final substitution. Bright with a superb long range pass forwards for Cuthbert the young Scottish attacker bringing the ball down well on her chest striking the falling ball towards goal from 20 yards out her shot straight at Berger the keeper with another confident save. Birmingham make their final change Abbey-Leigh Stringer on for Mayling.

   Dunn continuing her good work down the left runs clear firing in a cross towards Carney at the near post closed down quickly by Carter and Mannion can’t wriggle free of the pair to get a shot away. Mjelde with a strike from outside the box sees her effort fly wide of the target as the game moves into injury time. Cuthbert has the ball in the back of the net late on the flag up for offside before she has struck the ball however. A late late corner for Birmingham the ball whips in by Williams is headed off the line by Chapman as the final whistle blows and Chelsea keep a clean sheet the 2-0 win taking them to the top of the table.

Full time Birmingham City Ladies 0-2 Chelsea Ladies

   A great team performance from Chelsea dominant pressing the ball really well putting Birmingham under constant pressure at the back impressive on the ball it was the work they did off that really stood out today. Squeezing play up at times potentially left them exposed if Birmingham could have found a way through their attackers making sure no one settled on the ball. Berger’s saves kept Birmingham in the game and 2nd half all the while it was just a single goal lead the hosts created opportunities, Chelsea needed that 2nd goal. Birmingham despite being under constant pressure at the back did defend really well.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    A good display from Chelsea today so naturally today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to one of their players  a good all round performance, Bright has improved no end since joining Chelsea doing well leading the back line today going forwards with some superb runs and always ready to receive the ball I have chosen Crystal Dunn was outstanding on the left today.

Crystal Dunn

Good to get some FAWSL 1 action in at last the weather might not have been as good as my previous trips to the Automated Technology Stadium but the football was excellent my thanks to Birmingham for their assistance today.

Match Report – AFC Dunstable Ladies v Billericay Town Ladies

Sunday 4th February

A trip to Bedfordshire this Sunday to watch a game from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division with AFC Dunstable Ladies hosting league leaders, Billericay Town Ladies.

   The ERWFL proving to be a very competitive league across all 3 divisions this season, any given team in the Premier Division capable of beating the other on the day. 10 sides contesting the league now following the sad withdrawal of both Lowestoft Town Ladies and Colchester Town Ladies both having struggled to find enough committed players at this level. That has see some points adjustment during the way. 

AFC Dunstable are currently in 7th place in the ERWFL Premier Division table, very tight in the middle of the table with just 3 points between 7th and 4th placed Writtle Ladies. A win today could take AFC Dunstable Ladies as high as 4th with the right result. Their form has yo-yoed this season like a few other sides in the middle of the table. More than capable of putting a good run together on the back of a strong league campaign last season that saw them push the top sides all the way eventually finishing 4th. Have brought in a few players form Offley & Stopsley Women who folded over the close season, Kelly Moss, Charlene Moreton and Rianne Townsend -Brown. A 2-0 win over Sharnbrook WFC last weekend saw Dunstable reach the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup.

  Billericay Town Ladies are often amongst the side competing at the top end of the table during recent times finishing runners-up for 4 out of the last 5 seasons. 6th last campaign began this season strongly setting the early pace matched by Essex rivals Writtle Ladies. Cambridge City Ladies promoted last season going on a great winning run to took over top spot for a little while before Christmas. Billericay have added a few new faces to their squad, Dempsey Favell joining from Harlow Town Ladies, whilst Lauren Bourne, Nancy Butler and Georgia Box were with Colchester at the start of the season. Box hitting the ground running at Billericay the striker scoring 10 goals from 8 appearance. Plenty of goals already in the side before her arrival with captain Lindsey Morgan netting 15 so far and Paris Smith top scorers with 22 goals. Opened up a 4 point lead at the top after coming back from 1-0 down at half-time against 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies last weekend and with Cambridge not in action this Sunday an opportunity to open up a 7 point gap at the top.

The venue for today’s game, Creasey Park a council run sports facility home to several clubs, aswell as AFC Dunstable Ladies, AFC Dunstable FC and Dunstable Town use the ground. Is a very nice ground newly built offering several training pitches including a 3G surface aswell as the main pitch. A clubhouse with bar and hot food and drinks available laid out well the changing room adjoining leading out onto the main pitch a good size offering plenty of width a little worn in places has seen alot of action. Only been here before for night games so nice to see it it the daylight. A small seated stand, and a good sized carpark beside the ground. A few postponements in the area but the game was on frosty earlier wet before but the pitch had dried out well, chilly but the sun was doing it’s best.

AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI – Hannah Payne, Jodie Patterson, Lauren Chimes (C), Elly Wade, Stephanie Fisher, Rachel Moffat, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Samaira Khan, Rianne Townsend-Brown & Charlene Moreton. Subs – Rebecca Langthorpe, Beth Stanton, Claudia Attenborough & Kelly Moss.

Billericay Town Ladies starting XI – Robyn Strauss, Rachel Armstrong, Kirsty Knight, Hayley Piggott, Sally Appleton, Lindsey Morgan (C), Nancy Butler, Lauren Bourne, Lauren Knight, Dempsey Favell & Georgia Box. Subs – Hope Strauss.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   Billericay were without top scorers Paris Smith today, Hope Strauss an U18 player on the subs bench. Both sides have blue as their home strip, today Billericay were playing in their red away kit. It’s Dunstable to get the 1st half underway. Billericay press the ball straight from kick-off captain Lindsey Morgan bringing it forwards the ball played out wide right to Lauren Knight getting forwards her progress halted by Dunstable captain Lauren Chimes at left back. The visitors keeping possession inside their opponents half.

 Lauren Bourne and Nancy Butler combine on the left side for Billericay bringing the ball on down the line the cross swept into the box knocked down by Georgia Box at the far post into the path of Butler her low shot blocked by Stephanie Fisher at the back for Dunstable the visitors keep the ball inside the final 3rd a cross sent in long from the left Lauren Knight coming in right side sees her looping strike fly up onto the roof of the net. 

Billericay continue their good start Morgan busy in the middle of the park winning the ball sends the pass forwards for Box ahead of her the striker holding the ball up lays it back to Morgan 25 yards out she sends a shot in towards goal straight at Hannah Payne a comfortable catch for the Dunstable goalkeeper. Jodie Patterson brings the ball on for Dunstable up to Moreton central she looks to release Khan on the right Lauren Armstrong intercepts the ball.

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Jodie Patterson

Dunstable’s Danielle Carty bringing the ball in finds Rianne Townsend-Brown on the left driving on with the ball wins the home side the 1st corner of the game. A good delivery in from the left Samiara Khan get’s up highest near post puts her header wide of the goal. Butler plays the ball long up the pitch for Box moving into the right channel to chase down, Chimes sliding in to put the ball out for a throw in. Billericay work the ball across the top of the area, players drawn across Bourne his looking to get in behind, Khan doing well around on the cover to put in a vital tackle.  A good race on between Box and Dunstable centre back Elly Wade as Morgan plays the through ball on for her. the defender getting to the ball 1st plays it back to Payne to clear. 

GOAL! Billericay capitalise on their good start taking the lead 15 minutes into the game pressing forwards players racing to get into the area as Bourne carries the ball on down the left whips in a great cross along the six yard box met at the far post the shot comes in Payne makes an outstanding save to take the ball away across her goal back out to the left is knocked back out to towards the top of the area with Bourne latching onto it from 20 yards out smashes a stunning strike into the top corner no chance of stopping it 0-1. Bourne’s 1st goal for Billericay too.

Lauren Bourne opens the scoring for Billericay Town Ladies

Dunstable look to respond the ball played on through the middle by Charlotte South on for Khan coming central takes it on has Townsend-Brown making a run to her left rolls the ball on for her into the area left of goal goes to shoot, Kirsty Knight in the way making the block for Billericay the ball spinning behind for the corner. The ball played in towards the top of the Billericay box his headed over the crossbar.

 Morgan with a couple of efforts at goal for Billericay the 1st from a wide right position held low at the near post by Payne. The second as Sally Appleton plays the ball forwards from the back Morgan running onto it 20 yards from goal her strike right flashes wide across goal out at the far post. Payne with another top draw save for Dunstable this time however off one of her own defenders as Hayley Piggott getting forwards right side for Billericay puts a great cross into the box met by a blue shirt the header up heading goalwards threatening to dip under the ball Payne throws herself at it tipping it wide. 

An excellent save from AFC Dunstable Ladies goalkeeper Hannah Payne from one of her own players

 Butler receives the ball central from Morgan turns and plays it on for Dempsey Favell getting in behind the Dunstable defence a little too much on the ball allows Payne coming quickly off her line to get their 1st to clear the ball. A competitive game Appleton needed to come off to clean up a bleeding nose. Carty and Favell slid in for a 50/50 ball the Dunstable player aggrieved as the decision goes against her. A long ball played on is cleared by the Dunstable defence falls straight to Butler 30 yards out strikes the ball 1st time her effort swerving away from goal goes wide. 

Billericay Town Ladies captain, Lindsey Morgan

   Morgan taking the ball into the area for Billericay sees her shot blocked at close range by Wade another opportunity to put it in towards goal this time Fisher is in the right place to clear. Piggott with an ambitious effort from all of 40 yards out sees the ball fall just wide of goal. Charlene Moreton operating up front for Dunstable has been tracking back in order to win possession of the ball doing so has Khan making a break on the right wing the ball played up the line, Rachel Armstrong prevents her from getting a cross into the area. Counter attacking the ball played up to Morgan surging forwards into towards goal Box ahead of her right inside lays the ball back to her, Wade racing out charging down her shot. 

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Elly Wade

Dunstable make a substitution Beth Stanton coming on to replace Khan. Billericay press forwards Box picking up the ball 40 yards from goal sends it on for Favell looking to get onto it inside the box, Chimes coming around slides in to win the ball. Another change for Dunstable Khan’s stay on the bench short lived comes back on for Carty in the middle. Wade with another great defensive tackle gets across inside her box to prevent Morgan unleashing a shot as she is played on into the area. 

Billericay Town ladies, Georgia Box

  Billericay finish the half strongly getting on down the left the ball is fizzed inside towards Box the striker controlling well her 1st touch taking the ball in towards the area escaping her marker gives chase just a little too much on the ball again gives Payne time to get out to come kick the ball to safety. Dunstable break in the dying moment of the 1st half Khan with the ball right plays it into the centre with South getting up the pitch has Townsend-Brown to her left making a run into the area lets fly as she receives the ball, Billericay goalkeeper, Robyn Strauss coming to close the angle is able to hold onto the rising shot.

Half-time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

   A good 1st half from the visitors dominant on the ball leading 1-0 thanks to Lauren Bourne’s stunning 15th minute strike. More chances to extend the lead, Payne with some crucial saves the defence working hard for Dunstable keeping the lead down to just a single goal. Dunstable with little opportunity up the other end are far from out of the game as the sides emerge from the changing rooms for the 2nd half.

Changes for both sides at half-time, Rebecca Langthorpe on for Dunstable, Khan pushed up into an striking role alongside Moreton. Hope Strauss on for Billericay, replacing Armstrong. Operating wide right, Morgan dropping deeper, Favell into midfield Lauren Knight joining Box up front. Billericay to kick-off the 2nd half. The half getting off to a competitve start both sides looking to close the ball down quickly. Townsend-Brown getting away on the left for Dunstable her cross gathered at the near post by Strauss.

Billericay Town ladies, Dempsey Favell

 Lauren Knight putting the Dunstable defence under pressure as the ball is played into the corner on the right, Butler getting forwards to offer support Knight plays the ball to her then back to Knight her cross fired in towards the near post run Box threatening to nip in ahead of Payne coming towards the ball the striker getting a touch but only to take the ball out of play. Dunstable starting the 2nd half much better South getting the ball forwards into Khan back to goal right side has Stanton on the move on the wing the diagonal pass into her taking the ball on to the byline wins a corner kick. 

  Stanton getting forwards on the right again her cross fired in across the six yard box knocked out to Moreton positioned at the top of the area her strike charged down by Appleton. Dunstable good start has given them plenty of confidence are winning the 50/50 balls getting players into advanced positions, Billericay know they could do with a 2nd goal to quieten things down. Hope Strauss with the ball right plays it on for Butler making a run forwards her through ball into the box looking for Bourne, Payne reaching it 1st.

Nancy Butler passing the ball for Billericay Town Ladies

    Wade doing well at the back for Dunstable across to block Morgan’s cross the ball out for a throw Billericay have players forwards Morgan with another opportunity to put a cross in deeper this time cut out by Fisher coming back out to Morgan this time her cross flies across the six yard box Bourne coming in at the far post can’t quite get onto the end of it. The game is lively the action end to end Dunstable get forwards Khan picking the ball up has a run at the Billericay defence, Kirsty Knight putting the challenge in to win the ball take it away from the attack at the top of the box.

Stephanie Fisher clearing the ball for AFC Dunstable Ladies

Winning the ball at the back Wade looks up playing the ball into the middle his helped on out to the left side into the feet of Moffat taking the ball on down the wing fires a cross into the side netting. Moffat is replaced soon after with Carty returning to the field for Dunstable the home side sure they can find an equalising goal have the momentum. The ball is passed on into Khan peeling away to the right of goal in behind driving into the box Strauss comes racing out to close her down the attacker getting her shot past the keeper the ball heading towards goal the Billericay defence regrouping quickly are back on the cover Kirsty Knight clearing the ball off the line. 

Samaira Khan on the attack for AFC Dunstable Ladies

  Townsend-Brown with the ball left side sees her cross into the area cut out by Knight away for a corner, Dunstable on top with around 20 minutes left to play. Langthorpe is fouled as she brings the ball into the Billericay half. Carty over the free-kick in front of the centre circle a good ball lifted into the area dropping for South 8 yards out looks to see the ball down across her body turn into the shot, Kirsty Knight reading it closely marking her blocks the attempt. Billericay make a change Armstrong returning to the pitch in place of Favell. 

AFC Dunstable Ladies, Charlotte South

Carty seeing the ball down tries her luck from distance for the home side, on target Strauss is well placed in the Billericay goal to take the ball low into her body. Knight is shoved over by Khan as the Dunstable striker looks to get past her after the ball, despite winning the free-kick a few verbals from Knight booked see her booked. Billericay having to work hard to keep their lead in tack, Dunstable continue to press forwards. Dunstable with a free-kick inside the Billericay half Carty up into the box cleared Townsend-Brown has it left cuts the ball inside Carty forwards strikes the ball goalwards her shot looping up and dropping on target is taken high by Strauss.

 Is tense out there the game moving into the latter stages Dunstable on top in attack, Billericay defending well can’t get the ball into their own attackers to counter the game very much in the balance. Lauren Knight picking up the ball from a throw in on the right turns inside tries to get into the area, Langthorpe putting in the tackle to win the ball back for Dunstable. The home side with a late corner right side, put in near post Strauss comes in amongst the crowd to put the ball out for a 2nd corner delivered again to the near post a head puts in in at goal from close range, blocked saved or strikes the post I don’t know before being put behind for a 3rd corner as appeals for handball are made but nothing is given.

  Khan on the attack the ball passed to Townsend-Brown who sends it out to Chimes out wide her high ball into the area is met by South breaking clear of the Billericay defence her effort turned over the crossbar wouldn’t have counted to flag up for offside. An exciting 2nd half comes to an end the final whistle seeing Billericay hold on to their 1-0 lead to claim the 3 points that takes them 7 points clear at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division table.

Full time AFC Dunstable Ladies 0-1 Billericay Town Ladies

  A cliche I know but very much a game of two halves, with Billericay strong in the 1st half dominating the ball and creating plenty of chances scoring from one giving them a slender lead. A 2nd goal early in the 2nd half would have made things more comfortable, Dunstable coming out strong in the 2nd half regrouping and growing in confidence felt they could find an equaliser and it was Billericay who needed the strong defensive display in the end grinding out the win 3 point well earned.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   A game of two halves makes picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as hard as ever several good performances out their Billericay dominating the 1st half Morgan strong in the middle along with Butler, Kirsty Knight at the back particularly 2nd half. Overall it comes down to a consistent display for the entire game and today that goes to a player from the losing side, Elly Wade for Dunstable Ladies reading the game very good positioning and marking, covering when needed is today’s Player of the Match.

 Fancied a game form the ERWFL today, the regional leagues are often overlooked but an integral part of the women’s football pyramid, plenty of good players on show producing good quality entertaining and committed football if you haven’t checked out the league before I’d highly recommend it. My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams today.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Coventry United Ladies

Sunday 28th January

Finally after 4 attempts it’s GAME ON! Originally scheduled for December 10th last year Cambridge United WFC finally meet Coventry United Ladies in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.

The good old British weather putting pay to this fixture 3 times! Along with the Christmas break and Coventry United Ladies playing in both the FA Women’s Cup and County Cup has seen this game long delayed. Better weather at last this Sunday at Mildenhall Town FC as these two sides play for a place in the quarter finals of the FAWPL Cup an away trip to in form South West Division One side Plymouth Argyle Ladies waiting.

A test for Cambridge United WFC 6th in FAWPL South East Division One taking on higher league opponents this afternoon. A Determining Round played at the start of the season the winning sides entering the Cup competition Cambridge United WFC went on to beat fellow league side Enfield Town Ladies 2-0 to reach the 2nd Round. Manager Steve Edwards leaving the club after 4 years in charge of the 1st team since then. Reserves and former 1st team manager Kevin Hoover taking over whilst the club look for a successor. 

Coventry United Ladies looking as strong as ever at the start of 2018, 5th in the FAWPL Southern Division but with games in hand on the leading pair Charlton Athletic Women and Crystal Palace Ladies whilst still in contention in 3 cup competition’s the County, FAWPL and FA Women’s Cups. FAWPL Plate winners 2 season’s ago are unbeaten in 6 matches in both league and cup going into today’s tie.

Mildenhall Town FC the venue for today’s game like many others across the country has seen it’s far share of water these past few weeks, despite that looks once again in great condition if not quite a dried out as preferred this is the 52nd match to be played upon it so far this season. A sloping pitch from one goalmouth to the other, the sun bright in the sky beginning to fall behind one end. Positively tropical conditions as a pose to the freezing monsoon I endured during last weekends game, bright and sunny a strong breeze blowing across the pitch as the two sides emerged from the dressing room ready to go.

    Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Charlotte Crisp, Amber Cantwell, Amy Howlett, Faith Hewitt, Lauren Cartwright & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Laura Baker, Lauren Gibson & Gabrielle Whitehurst.

   Coventry United Ladies starting XI – Susan Wood (C), Alexandra Buck, Nikki Miles, Natalie Haigh, Maisie Jerrim, Laura Cooper, Helen Dermody, Jade Brook, Amber Hughes, Marie Gauntlett & Alison Hall. Subs – Elizabeth Steele, Jessica Lundie, Lucy Stead & Rosie McDonnell.

Good to see Carrie Bennett back in the starting line-up for Cambridge after suffering a nasty dislocated elbow on the final day of last season. Up front Kelley Blanchflower leads the line for the home side having been out for a period too with injury. For Coventry United Ladies, Nikki Miles is making her 130th appearance today. Cambridge wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks to kick-off the first half the sun in their faces with Coventry wearing red shirts with green shorts and socks attacking up the slope. 

The visitors press the ball right from the off Laura Cooper winning it in the middle the ball played out to Amber Hughes on the right her ball in cleared by the Cambridge defence. Maisie Jerrim takes a knock for Coventry as she goes up for the ball with Kelley Blanchflower as Cambridge play the ball long up towards her 25 yards from goal, going after the ball Blanchflower wins a free-kick central for Cambridge play stopped so Jerrim can receive treatment. Off the field Cambridge captain, Laura Bright comes forwards to take the free-kick around 25 yards from goal floats the ball in towards the far post players attack the ball, Coventry winning the header the ball clearing the area comes back to Bright she shifts it and shoots her effort wide of goal.

Amber Cantwell, attacking for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim returns to the field for Coventry, Helen Dermody with the ball in the middle plays it on for Jade Brook ahead of her, Brook passes it on for Alison Hall at the top of the box right side puts a cross into the middle, Bright intercepts clearing for Cambridge. Coventry have started well players forwards, a shot comes in from distance, Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford in the Cambridge goal makes a very good save getting up to tip the ball up over her crossbar. The resulting corner played in from the right a good delivery from Dermody across the face of goal is headed clear by Bright for Cambridge.

GOAL! Coventry’s good start brings an early goal as they open the scoring in the 9th minute. Possession with Marie Gauntlett on the left side powers her way up the line holding off her marker whips in a great cross towards the near post, Hall arriving on cue to head the ball in across the keeper to make it 0-1.

Alison Hall scores the opening goal of the game for Coventry United Ladies

Brave goalkeeping from Burgess soon after prevents Coventry from doubling their lead regaining the ball from the restart push players forwards a good diagonal ball along the ground finds Hughes getting into the box behind the Cambridge defence, Burgess reacting quickly to slide in a smother the ball at the attackers feet. Hughes finding room out wide right again cuts inside sees her shot blocked by Bennett from outside the area. 

A strong midfield run from Brook as Coventry come forwards again a corner won on the right another good delivery from Dermody into the six yard box, the ball attacked and headed down towards goal, Burgess from close range making a fantastic double save, stopping the initial effort then blocking the rebound. The home side under pressure early on. Coventry have another corner right side this effort caught up in the breeze dropping near post defended by Cambridge out of the area dropping to Cooper 20 yards out puts her foot through the ball her effort blocked. 

Cambridge are struggling to settle early on find any meaningful possession as Coventry quickly move the ball around. Little for Blanchflower to work with up top the striker knocking the ball on as both Lauren Cartwright and Cantwell get beyond her into the box look to pressure Coventry, goalkeeper and captain Susan Wood able to kick the ball clear. Brook carries the ball forwards for Coventry getting a shot away from 25 yards out her low strike gathered cleanly by Burgess.

 

Kayleigh-Anne Burt bringing the ball on for Cambridge United WFC

Jerrim intercepts the ball at the back for Coventry as Blanchflower looks to square a cross from the left along the top of the area, up field for Dermody she tries to release Alexandra Buck on the right the full back fouling Hewitt as she tries to get around her. Not long before Coventry have the ball again moving it on Hall on the right swings a cross into the box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt winning it for Cambridge. 

Dermody starts and finishes another attacking move for Coventry bringing the ball up into the Cambridge half plays it out wide for Hughes on the move on the right wing her cut back along the top of the area met by Gauntlett who sends the ball on for Dermody continuing her run pulls the trigger her shot straight at Burgess the keeper holding onto the ball. 

Half an hour played and Cambridge have a great chance to pull it back to 1-1 Blanchflower putting pressure on the Coventry defence races onto the ball inside the box left of goal closing down Wood looks to lift the ball over the keeper sees her effort kiss the crossbar ad run out of play. Cambridge opportunities are restricted however as Coventry continue to press players forwards keeping Blanchflower isolated. Between the Bennett and Hewitt stop Hughes on the right getting a cross into the area. Cleared the ball soon comes back an early cross in from the right cleared by Burt at the near post. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Kelley Blanchflower

 A free-kick for Cambridge wide left on halfway as Amy Howlett is brought down. Bright on the ball a good delivery up towards Blanchflower at the top of the area, seeing the ball down across her body intends to turn and take it on into the area, Natalie Haigh reads her intentions and not getting too close comes across to put in the tackle. A free-kick up the other end in a dangerous position outside the D for Coventry as Brook is brought down. Cooper over the ball gets her shot in past the wall heading for goal Burgess shuffling across quickly is able to get her gloves on the ball push it away.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Charlotte Crisp

 Gauntlett on the ball for Coventry coming inside to receive the ball from the left splits the Cambridge defence with a great pass as Hall through the middle beats the offside trap, Burgess with a good starting position however is quickly out of her area to win the kick and clear for the hosts. Late into the 1st half Cambridge get the ball forwards Blanchflower taking it down into the left corner the ball played back up towards the top of the area Charlotte Crisp with the header down looking to put the ball into the path of Cartwright inside the box, the Coventry defence getting in front of her to shield the ball back to Wood. One last attack in the 1st half for Coventry Brook with the strike from 20 yards out sees her effort charged down by Burt.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Coventry United Ladies

    A strong performance from Coventry in the 1st half. With much of the possession and certainly more chances they will be disappointed not to be leading by a larger margin. Conceding an early goal the game threatened to get away from Cambridge, some excellent goalkeeping from Burgess keeping the score down at 1-0 Cambridge are still very much in the tie however will need to have a much better 2nd half and find some meaningful possession on the ball having not settled at all in the 1st half. 

 No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half, Cambridge with the kick-off as Coventry attack down the slope the sun settled lower in the sky. Coventry come forwards the ball played up to Hall on the right is clattered into going to head the ball is left in a heap as play goes on the ball taken down the line swung into the box claimed by Burgess at her near post.  Hall is back up on her feet.

Coventry United Ladies, Amber Hughes

Cooper with the diagonal ball to pick out Hughes making an attacking run down the right taking the ball on plays her cross in long to the far post attacked the header is narrowly over, either way play is stopped by an offside flag. Gauntlett running with the ball central lets fly from all of 35 yards out her strike sailing over the crossbar. Hall flings her arms up in the air inside the box wanting a penalty for Coventry as the ball into her is intercepted, the referee not interested.  

GOAL! As with the 1st half, Coventry score early to double their advantage in the 2nd. Play is over on the left side of the pitch as Coventry build an attack the cross played on towards the area Brook getting to the ball before Burgess can come to clear knocked past the keeper a defender attempts to get back to clear the ball but in vain as it rolls into the back of the net 0-2.

A change for the visitors Jerrim comes off at the back with Rosie McDonnell coming on. Going in on the left side of defence Miles moves forwards into an advanced position on the right, Hughes coming over to the left. Buck defends well against Blanchflower at the back for Coventry as Cambridge send the ball long for her to attack. Setting up a counter attack the ball helped on by Cooper is picked up by Hall 25 yards out hits a venomous shot in towards goal from 25 yards out the ball skimming the top of the crossbar. Burt clears with her head for Cambridge as Coventry get the ball in from the right wing. 

Laura Cooper on the ball in midfield for Coventry United Ladies

A good tempo to the game Coventry continuing to push players forwards a few strong challenges coming in. A corner right side for the visitors flung in near post a crowd up to attack the ball put wide of the post a goal kick the end result. 

GOAL! Coventry extend their lead 15 minutes into the 2nd half players up for a corner taken by Dermody on the right the ball cleared out to the left side, Coventry keep possession Cooper with the ball puts in a fantastic cross from the left up jump Haigh in the middle of the box to power her header into the back of the net, Burgess no chance to react 0-3.

Natalie Haigh makes it 3-0 to Coventry United Ladies

   Cambridge make their 1st change of the game, Laura Baker coming on for Cartwright. Good link up play between Miles and Hughes on the right the latter putting her cross wide beyond the far post. Baker with a strong tackle stops Gauntlett as the Coventry attacker looks to push on through the centre. Coventry have the ball in the back of the net but are denied a 4th goal by the offside flag following good build up play from Cooper out to Miles on the right the ball squared into the area Gauntlett running onto it puts the ball in just inside the post only for the effort to be ruled out.

Coventry’s Cooper and Cambridge’s Crisp challenge for the ball

    Blanchflower is taken down by Buck as she looks to bring the ball on into the Coventry half the set-piece in a central position Cantwell over it looks to lift the ball up into the box to be attack, runners closing Wood down she claims comfortably. A 2nd change for Coventry up top Jessica Lundie comes on to replace Hall in attack. 

   A brilliant save from Wood prevents Cambridge from pulling a goal back as the ball is played up field into the box the clearance runs straight along the ground into the path of the advancing Baker 25 yards out she hits it straight back in towards goal racing for the bottom corner Wood dives full stretch to her right to push the ball behind her goal. From the resulting corner on the left side it’s Brook who gets her head on the ball to clear for Coventry. Gauntlett passes the ball inside for Dermody to her left 25 yards out central her 1st time shot is charged down inside the box. 

GOAL! Cambridge have pushed up as they look to get players forwards are hit on the counter the ball cleared back up field Burgess comes racing out of her area to try and win the bouncing ball getting her head on it fall straight into Brook breaking forwards 40 yards out knowing there is a open goal lobs the stranded keeper sees the ball bounce down over the line 0-4.

Coventry United Ladies, Jade Brook

Coventry keep coming forwards putting Cambridge under constant pressure, Miles demanding the ball on the right getting onto space linking up well with Brook. Dermody comes close yet again with another strike from distance central her shot striking the crossbar. A free-kick giving Cambridge a chance to get the ball forwards, Bright’s ball is headed on by Baker into Blanchflower looking to turn into the box is again closely watched by Haigh.

Coventry United Ladies, Helen Dermody

   Not long left to play now Coventry make their final change Elizabeth Steele coming on to replace Hughes. Cantwell breaks forwards for Cambridge the ball in for Hewitt up the left wing her cross into the box looping up is over Blanchflower making a central run, Coventry clear. 

GOAL! Into injury time at the end of the game and Coventry score again, substitute Lundie putting the ball past Burgess from the left inside the box as she receives it from Gauntlett attacking down the right 0-5.

Coventry finish the game as strongly as they started it pressing numbers forwards to the final whistle winning the game 0-5 to set up an FAWPL Cup quarter final away to Plymouth Argyle Ladies. The tie scheduled for Sun 11th February.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-5 Coventry United Ladies 

   A dominant performance from the visitors today. Coventry getting off to a great start and keep up a superb all round team performance all game. Getting players forwards good runs on and off the ball causing Cambridge problems and cool at the back when their opponents were able to get forwards.

   One of those days for Cambridge never really got into the match early on as Coventry prevented them getting forwards, Blanchflower having little to feed on up top. Still keeping the score down to 1-0 in the first half gave them hope of getting back into it 2nd half ultimately not to be as their cup run is over. On to the next game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    Interesting one today for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match always a tough choice when you have such a good all round team performance Coventry were strong all over the pitch but particularly in midfield where their attacks often began Gauntlett and Hughes providing good runs left and right, Cooper and Dermody finding them on a regular basis, have all just been edged out by Jade Brook who made some purposeful runs forwards aswell as getting on the scoresheet twice making her today’s Player of the Match.

It’s nice to not feel like a block of ice after a game, roll on summer, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance today is always appreciated.

 

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies Development

Sunday 21st January

  Having seen no live action last weekend I was keen to get a game in this Sunday, the weather forecast however meant that was likely to be a challenge. Had a game in mind that I was pretty sure would beat the weather over others and held out as the games started to fall one by one. Hit the road heading to Newmarket hoping to see the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership game between Newmarket Town Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies Development. 

  Over night rain followed by freezing conditions with snow and sleet preceding rain for Sunday afternoon a pretty gloomy forecast a pitch inspection at The Ridgeons Stadium at 1:15pm saw a light dusting of snow covering the pitch but okay to play an all weather surface state of the art cork based it was in good shape. More importantly the ground provided cover for spectators. Game on. I was a bit early for kick-off as I didn’t know it had been put back to 3pm but seeing’s as I’d written zero pre-match notes this wasn’t time wasted.

Netherton United Ladies currently lead the way in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership the Peterborough based side getting off to a great start winning their 1st 7 matches, have 27 points from 11 games played in total. 2 defeats giving hope to those chasing who all have games in hand 2nd placed St Ives Town Ladies who can overhaul Netherton yet should they win their 4 games in hand having played 7. So to have today’s opponents Newmarket Town Ladies in 3rd place at home to 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development.

   Newmarket Town Ladies are on 16 points from their 7 played having won 5 with a draw and a loss so far in this campaign, amongst the front runners to challenge for the title this season a run in the FA Women’s Cup playing a factor in the number of league matches they have yet to play. A busy 2nd half to the season looms are in the quarter finals of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup and have reached the League Cup semi-finals too. Like St Ives Town they can catch Netherton if they collect maximum points from their games in hand. A win today moves them into 2nd position in the table.

  Cambridge City Ladies Development are into their 2nd season having won promotion to the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership in their debut season with the Championship South title. A strong youth set up at Cambridge City the 1st team currently 2nd in the ERWFL Premier Division the Development side has several players setting up into adult football from youth level aged 16. Like Newmarket have played just the 7 league games so far with 3 defeats and 4 victories to date the latest last weekend seeing them come back from 3-2 down against Cambridge University Women to win the match 6-3, with 16 year old Yasmin Crow scoring her 1st senior hat-trick.

 The Ridgeons Stadium the venue for today’s match, as mentioned earlier boasting a state of the art artificial playing surface. A clubhouse (a warm one too) hot drinks and food available. A small seated mainstand covered along with further covering in front of the clubhouse along side the pitch. Still out in the elements a bitterly cold day, the snow stopping before kick-off a bit of rain in the air with a biting wind that would grow stronger as the afternoon progressed. Good job I love the game or I’d have stayed at home. 

Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Jess Linger, Brooke Wickens, Yasmin Woodfield, Beth Woodfield (C), Laura Bailey, Chloe Slater, Antonia Smith, Abbi Griffin, Lauren Deller & Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Ellie Marshall, Cindy Ponder, Dominika Szary, Sarah O’Rourke & Cassandra Carvalheiro.

Cambridge City Ladies Development starting XI – Jenny Jamieson, Tegan Wyman, Eline Sorbye, Ellie Todd, Gemma Clare (C), Kayleigh Whitehead, Rachel Pearce, Molly White, Lucy Hurst, Yasmin Crow & Ellie Cullum. Subs – Aneila Luxford, Erin Fox, Rachel Littlewood, Amy Ozakpinar & Laura Mills.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It’s Cambridge to kick-off the match wearing white shirts with black upon the shoulders, black shirts and black and white hooped socks. Newmarket lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and yellow socks. An array of gloves worn too by both sides very cold out there. Despite the earlier snow fall and general wetness the pitch is in great shape no signs at all of players losing their footing. Newmarket press in the middle winning early possession of the ball Chloe Slater with the diagonal ball out to Lauren Deller over on the left wing the ball knocked on down the line she can’t keep it in play.

Jess Linger bringing the ball down for Newmarket Town Ladies

The home side have started the brighter pushing forwards Jordanne Sillitoe up front moving into space on the right receiving the ball whips a cross in along the face of goal from the byline is headed behind for a corner kick at the near post by Cambridge’s Eline Sorbye. The ball played into the area by Newmarket’s Jess Linger is headed back to her coming inside slices her low cross behind for a goal kick. Newmarket have possession on the right inside the Cambridge half a well worked triangle between Sillitoe, Abbi Griffin and Antonia Smith brings the home side a 2nd corner. Put in from the right headed out of the area falls to Chloe Slater 25 yards out Cambridge captain Gemma Clare goes in to block the shot goes wide.

GOAL! An early goal as Newmarket capitalise on their good start going 1-0 in the 7th minute. Pressing the ball high up the pitch the diagonal ball is put out to the left for Deller taking it on whips a great cross in towards the near post Griffin having made the run challenged by a Cambridge defender neither get any meaningful contact on the ball as it drops down inside the box Smith having made a midfield run is up with play first the ball and strikes it low across goal into the bottom corner. 1-0.

Antonia Smith opens the scoring for Newmarket Town Ladies

Newmarket are first to any loose pass and pressing the 2nd ball making it difficult for Cambridge to get out of their own half Laura Bailey with the tackle for Newmarket the ball knocked on picked up by Griffin 30 yards out takes on the strike a lobbed effort that has goalkeeper Jenny Jamieson scrambling across her goal the ball dropping just wide of the top corner. Cambridge look to send the ball long down the left for attacker Ellie Cullum to give chase, Yasmin Woodfield across from centreback for Newmarket to clear the threat putting the ball out for a throw.

   Molly White wins the ball in the centre for Cambridge plays an early pass forwards for Yasmin Crow peeling away to the right up top taking the ball on into the box shoots her effort straight into Eloise Hope the goalkeeper back covering her near post claiming the ball. The action quickly switches to the other end the ball played out to Griffin wide right, Sillitoe already on the move into space in behind the Cambridge defence the pass picking her out into the area strikes the ball races wide across the six yard box. 

Cambridge captain, Gemma Clare winning the ball ahead of Newmarket’s Jordanne Sillitoe

  Clare coming further forwards into the middle wins the ball for Cambridge sending it long drops to Cullum back to goal 25 yards out tries to see the ball down into her box and turn into the strike is closely marked by Newmarket captain Beth Woodfield who prevents any strike the ball spinning loose is played long as Newmarket launch a counter the ball out wide right the cross fired into the area Clare puts her foot through the ball to clear for Cambridge drops straight to Smith just outside the area her first time strike flying over the crossbar.

Hope is quick to come out of her box to clear the ball as White almost ties up Crow again with a good through ball. Kayleigh Whitehead wins the ball plays it on for Crow right side wins the away sides first corner of the game as Yasmin Woodfield puts in the challenge. A brilliant pass from Bailey up the other end for Newmarket the midfielder sliding the ball on into the area with Griffin providing the run Tegan Wyman going with her for Cambridge does well to deny her a shooting opportunity. Sillitoe comes close again as she puts a low shot across the Cambridge goal from the top of the area. A change for Newmarket at the back Yasmin Woodfield coming off Ellie Marshall coming on.

Midfielder Laura Bailey getting into an advanced position as Newmarket push players forwards

Newmarket bring the ball forwards down the right on for Sillitoe to chase down on the byline cuts her cross back along the face of goal evading Jamieson at the near post runs on no one gambling with a far post run, Cambridge can clear their lines. A piece of lax defending from Newmarket presents Cambridge with an opportunity in attack as White runs on through the middle getting hold of the ball, Hope comes racing out to meet her just outside the area going to ground the pair come together enough from the goalkeeper to stop a strike coming in the ball deflected to the right White goes after it plays the cross in Marshall back tracking blocks back to White lifts it over the central defender this time both Cullum and Lucy Hurst coming in from the left inside the six yard box won’t come down for Cullum to get a clean strike away Hurst can put her foot through the shot smashes it straight against Hope who makes a great stop from close range having gotten back into position.

Molly White getting forwards for Cambridge is challenged as she attempts t play the ball into Ellie Cullum

Cambridge make a double switch full backs Wyman and Sorbye coming off with Erin Fox and Aneila Luxford coming on. Whitehead with Pearce bring the ball on for Cambridge, White wanting the ball right side attempts to play it through for Crow, Brooke Wickens getting to the ball ahead of the attacker. Newmarket make a change Cindy Ponder joining the action on the half hour for Deller. Cambridge win the ball from a Hope goal kick the ball knocked on through the middle sees Cullum unmarked 25 yards out the ball coming to her unexpectedly her shot lacks any power is gratefully claimed by Hope.

 GOAL! Newmarket double their lead the goalscorer Abbi Griffin the 18 year old making her 50th appearance for the club today. Newmarket bring the ball on with purpose left side played into Griffin in a central position just outside the box left of the D puts a low shot in towards goal, Jamieson diving to her right can’t quite keep the ball out as it squirms under her and on into the back of the net 2-0.

50 appearances and a goal for Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

GOAL! Newmarket have been quicker to the ball all 1st half and are soon further ahead is another fantastic ball from midfield from Bailey splitting the Cambridge defence Sillitoe timing her run to perfection into the box can pick her spot Jamieson no time to close her down the ball is slotted low to her right to make it 3-0.

Cambridge make another double switch bringing on Rachel Littlewood and Amy Ozakpinar for Todd and White. Cambridge continue to be restricted in attack Newmarket defending a high line confident they can stop any threat getting in behind. Hurst looks to go beyond Cullum left side Linger tackling the winger breaking up the move. 

Griffin latches onto the ball from a Cambridge throw in on the the right once again it’s Sillitoe ready to go makes the run into the channel the ball into her feet takes it on into the box closing in on goal, Jamieson has her near post covered and Ozakpinar gets across Sillitoe between them the ball is stopped spinning behind for a late corner. The ball played in towards the top of the area falls to Ponder her shot is straight at Jamieson the keeper with a comfortable save. 

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 3-0 Cambridge City Ladies Development

  A good first half performance from Newmarket taking a 3-0 lead into the changing rooms, pressing the ball high and winning alot of 2nd balls getting players forwards and as a result limiting Cambridge’s chances going forwards. Difficult conditions to play in the pitch okay but bitterly cold with a biting wind getting stronger.

The sides are soon out for the 2nd half as the floodlights are switched on the gloomy sky starting to darken. Changes for both sides at the start of the 2nd period. Cambridge wheeling out the big gun have Laura Mills on the bench plenty of FAWPL experience is dual signed with Cambridge City with Milton Keynes Dons and takes up a midfield role in place of Whitehead. Marshall is off for Newmarket with Ponder dropping into defence. Sarah O’Rourke currently Newmarket’s top scorer with 12 goals is on up top along with Cassandra Carvalheiro and Dominika Szary. Slater, Smith and Griffin the players off. Newmarket get thing’s underway.

An early attack for the home side the ball played deep into the left channel with Sillitoe after it has support from Szary to her left the ball laid back to her plays the cross into the area falls just behind O’Rourke making a run at the far post. Cambridge get the ball forwards long from Pearce out to Littlewood on the left wing her early cross into the area headed clear by Woodfield.  

Cambridge’s Rachel Pearce

   Picking up the ball 25 yards out from goal Sillitoe jinks left then right knocking the ball on for O’Rourke to her right into the box, Jamieson making the save low at her feet the ball deflected wide O’Rourke after it tries to life the ball over the keeper, Jamieson producing a great save.  

GOAL! A more even start however Newmarket go further ahead early in the 2nd half as the home side is awarded a free-kick wide in the right top corner of the area. Linger, Newmarket’s set piece specialist coming forwards to take goes for goal plenty of pace on the all across the area to nestle in the bottom corner 4-0.  

  Jamieson makes a fantastic stop with her feet to deny Newmarket a 5th goal moments later as possession is lost the home side getting the ball out to O’Rourke on the right her cross from the byline cut back into the area Carvalheiro with the run a good strike from close range Jamieson doing well to stop it. Luxford with the ball right side for Cambridge inside to Crow looks to pick out Fox getting forwards from the left, the through ball intercepted.  Mills giving Cambridge a focal point in the midfield they are getting the ball forwards with more purpose and getting players up around her wanting the ball. Newmarket sitting back more have a comfortable lead.

Cambridge’s Erin Fox playing the ball forwards

GOAL! Cambridge pull a goal back on the hour coming forwards the ball played long into the right wing Crow giving chase evades a clumsy challenge in the corner before putting a great all into the six yard box centre of goal Littlewood having moved in from the left is there under the ball close with the keeper a glancing header taking it past her into the back of the net 4-1. 

Cambridge come again soon after the restart the ball won at the back up the line Mills helping it on for Crow down the right her early diagonal ball into the box is a threat Hope has two runners closing her down the ball falling favourably in between them she is able to deal with the threat get it away. Newmarket make a change Slater returning to the pitch in place of Szary. 

Carvalheiro makes a run across the top of the Cambridge area as the ball is squared into her from the left screws the shot up over the bar. Winning a corner on the left Newmarket bring players forwards the ball is defended near post behind for another corner this delivery aimed near post squeezes through sees a shot come in from inside the six yard box the defender covering the post for Cambridge making the block resulting in a 3rd corner this one taken short with Sillitoe coming for the ball she turns and strikes the ball from outside the box Hurst charging the ball down.

   Hurst comes off for Cambridge with Sorbye coming back on with Newmarket winning a corner right side the ball getting through to Sillitoe at the near post her shot blocked by Cullum at close range. A run from Mills on the right side for Cambridge cuts the ball back in field for Pearce coming forwards her looping ball comes for Cullum in a central position outside the area aiming to get the ball down and turn and strike it Newmarket are quickly on her to nullify the danger. 

A brave piece of goalkeeping from Jamieson with Newmarket hitting Cambridge on the counter the ball played low through the middle finding Carvalheiro running clear towards the box and one on one situation Jamieson comes rushing out sliding it to smother the ball at the attackers feet just inside the box, is hurt for her efforts but after treatment is okay to continue. Is a more even contest 2nd half Cambridge playing with a little more urgency starting attacks higher up the pitch enabling more players to get forwards. Newmarket defending a 3 goal lead can afford to sit back a little with around 15 minutes left to play.

Very cold out there, Jamieson comes racing out of her area to clear the ball with Sillitoe giving chase as Bailey plays it on. Newmarket push players forwards in the next attack the ball won on the left taken to the byline the cross whipped in across the six yard box dropping at the far post Griffin arriving throws herself at hit making contact with her boot the ball striking the post! 

   Deller returns to the field for Newmarket in place of O’Rourke. Todd and White are also back on for Cambridge. Bailey with a crossfield run cuts the ball back looking to play it over the top for Deller, Cambridge push up the striker caught offside. A free kick awarded to Cambridge in an inviting position right of the D, Pearce on the ball sends her shot up over the bar.

 Bailey moving left with the ball squares her cross along the top of the area the ball cut out by Luxford. Late into the match Crow wide plays a ball into the area from the right Ponder heading it away, the home side counter attack the ball forwards into Bailey a great slide rule past sending Deller in behind, good positioning from Jamieson the keeper able to get out of her area and come to clear the threat before Deller can get hold of the ball.

Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 4-1 Cambridge City Ladies Development

    A 4-1 win for Newmarket takes them into 2nd position in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership table on 19 points. The game won in the 1st half a dominant performance Newmarket starting the better closing the ball down higher up the pitch players making forward runs to cause Cambridge problems and go 3 goals in front, further extending the lead as Cambridge rallied in the 2nd half playing with much more confidence pulling a goal back a young and talented side that are only going to get better. Newmarket now 8 points behind Netherton with 3 games in hand.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

    A good display from Newmarket especially first half getting themselves into a 3 goal lead a few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, Griffin and Bailey both doing well, up top it was her runs and movement that caused Cambridge the most problems as well as pulling players out of position capping it off with a goal so have given it to Jordanne Sillitoe.

   A credit to the players for braving horrible conditions to play today’s game bitterly cold a ball strike hurting just a little bit more. Played with plenty of energy and in good spirit. Freezing myself took a while to warm up but good to get a game in. My thanks to both clubs for their help today.