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Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

Sunday 7th January

  Beginning 2018 with a game from FAWSL 2 a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch the leagues newest members Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

 Two ambitious clubs joining the FAWSL as it enters a new and challenging era adjusting to a return to the winter calendar too. A reshaping of the leagues seeing clubs bidding for either a place in FAWSL 1 or FAWSL 2 having to meet stringent criteria. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies looking to retain their FAWSL 2 status have bid for place in that league whilst Brighton & Hove Albion WFC receiving significant backing from the club have bid for a place in the new FAWSL 1 where all clubs will have to be fully professional.

Both following the same path to the FAWSL, both prominent clubs within Women’s Football East the FAWPL Southern Division being the top league that is covered. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were crowned Champion’s 2 season’s ago with Tottenham Hotspur Ladies winning the title the season after both going on to win the subsequent FAWPL Playoff game between their Northern Division counterparts to achieve promotion.

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies have had a solid start to life in FAWSL 2 the move from summer to winter not affecting them at all. Have strengthened their squad by bringing in defender Ashleigh Neville from Coventry United Ladies and experienced WSL attacker Sarah Wiltshire from Yeovil Town Ladies and young prospect Lauren Pickett. A narrow opening game defeat away to Durham Women FC, Tottenham responded well winning their next 2 league games a along with their 2 opening Continental Tyres Cup group matches unbeaten in 5 before ending the year with 3 straight defeats in league and cup. In 6th place in the table a win today puts them onto 10 points amongst those challenging at the top of the table.

Although Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were promoted the season before Tottenham Hotspur Ladies this is technically their first season of FAWSL 2 football too as they entered the league during it’s transitional period prior to reverting back to the winter a one off Spring Series played during the 1st half of 2017 each side facing their opponents once. Would have benefited Brighton the most giving the club an opportunity to get used to the league and it’s strengths.

   Operating with an interim manger during that period the club has shown it’s ambitions by bringing in former England manager, Hope Powell to coach the 1st team. Several new faces joining the playing squad too bringing FAWSL experience with them, ex-Notts County player Danielle Buet along with Aileen Whelan and Fern Whelan who were with Everton ladies prior to coming down to the South Coast. Ini Umatong  who was previously with Oxford United Women along with Fliss Gibbons and goalkeeper Lucy Gillett. Currently in 4th spot in the FAWSL 2 table one of 3 sides on 10 points looking to challenge leaders Doncaster Rovers Belles for top spot with 3 wins and a draw from their opening 5 league matches.

 The two sides met in November in the group stages of the Continental Tyres Cup, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC winning the game away from home 4-1. The venue for today’s game Cheshunt FC a large pitch offering good width, has fared well despite the recent heavy rain. Quite an open stadium a bitterly cold day at the beginning of January but dry. Hold food and drinks available along with a bar. 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Chloe Morgan, Lucia Leon, Ashleigh Neville, Jenna Schillaci (C), Renee Hector, Sophie McLean, Hannah McKenzie, Sarah Wiltshire, Lauren Pickett, Katie O’Leary & Ronnell Humes. Subs – Toni-Anne Wayne, Maya Vio, Wendy Martin, Coral-Jade Haines, Bianca Baptiste & Ryah Vyse. 

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Lucy Gillett, Beth Roe, Sophie Perry (C), Laura Rafferty, Fern Whelan, Kirsty Barton, Jenna Legg, Kate Natkiel, Bronwen Thomas, Fliss Gibbons & Ini Umotong. Subs – Laura Hartley, Sophia Pharoah, Lucy Somes, Natalie Taylor & Vicky Ashton-Jones.

It’s the away side to kick off the game Tottenham changing ends to have the low sun at their backs in the 1st half. Brighton in their away colours an all yellow kit with bronze across the shirt shoulders. Tottenham in their home colours white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Brighton looking to keep the ball moving along the ground work the ball forwards out to Fliss Gibbons on the left she is tackled by full back Lucia Leon the ball out for a throw in. 

Laura Rafferty on the ball for Brighton

Getting the ball forwards the long pass finds Ronnell Humes in space drifting right for Tottenham, Fern Whelan coming to put in the tackle prevents the striker getting a shot away as she enters the box. Brighton launch a quick counter attack the ball moved forwards quickly the diagonal ball aimed for Bronwen Thomas running down the right is tackled in the corner by Ashleigh Neville to concede the 1st corner of the game.

A quiet opening to the game both sides looking to get on the ball make progress up the pitch Brighton pressing the ball inside the Tottenham half well not letting the home side retain any meaningful possession. Leon gains ground on the right supporting Lauren Pickett, Whelan is across again to stifle the threat, when Tottenham eventually get a cross into the area it is caught by Lucy Gillett at her near post. 

Brighton come forwards Jenna Legg finding a bit of room on the ball 30 yards out central attempts the slide the ball forwards for Ini Umotong making a run towards the top of the area, Renee Hector closes her down for Tottenham gets her foot to the ball first directing it back to goalkeeper Chloe Morgan to clear. Sarah Wiltshire gets forwards for Tottenham sees her cross swung in from the right claimed by Gillett.

Tottenham’s Sophie McLean looks to find a way through

GOAL! Brighton are soon down the other end of the pitch a free-kick is won just outside the box to the left of the D, captain Sophie Perry comes forwards to take it as referee Stacey Pearson moves the Tottenham was back. A quality free-kick from the Republic of Ireland international the ball whipped past the Tottenham wall with plenty of pace just inside the post evading the diving Morgan to give Brighton an 11th minute lead 0-1.

Brighton captain, Sophie Perry opens the scoring from a free-kick.

Tottenham look to respond right away Wiltshire with the through ball for Humes is closed down by Laura Rafferty, Gillett coming out of her goal to prevent the ball spinning away for the corner. Brighton work the ball forwards through the centre enjoying good possession before the pass is played out to Thomas on the right cutting inside with the ball attempts to curl the shot towards goal, angled in is straight at Morgan who saves comfortably.

The visitors are working well as a unit to break up any Tottenham forward play then moving it forwards with purpose when in possession using the full width of the pitch, full back Beth Roe putting in the tackle as Humes is played in through the centre, Barton in the middle plays the ball forwards with Umotong making a good run from left to right across the top of the Tottenham area aims her cross back across the box for Gibbons far side who lashes the ball into the back of the net even as she receives the ball the flag is up for offside.

A free-kick to Brighton on halfway the ball lifted up in towards the top of the box is headed clear dropping for Barton 30 yards out controls well on her chest before volleying a shot in towards goal on target the ball is caught low by Morgan right behind the shot. Neville brings the ball on up the left for Tottenham plays a cross into the area cleared for a throw. A one two between Katie O’Leary and Humes the latter seeing her cross cut out as Whelan clears for Brighton. 

Brighton’s, Beth Roe

 A great tackle by Tottenham’s Hannah McKenzie to deny Brighton’s Umotong as Legg plays the ball into her path breaking forwards. Up the other end Whelan is reading the game well for Brighton winning the ball as the home side try to find a way in behind. Kate Natkiel coming forwards the ball played on to Legg out to Thomas right side 25 yards out takes on the shot curling in again top corner, Morgan has time to get across and take the ball into her gloves. 

Brighton’s Kate Natkiel evades Hannah McKenzie’s tackle

Tottenham come forwards Sophie McLean on for Wiltshire the pass out to Pickett on the right plays the cross into the box, Gillett claiming it well at her near post with Humes and Wiltshire both coming in. Another free-kick in a dangerous position for Brighton top right corner outside the area this time Perry with the step over as Gibbons curls the ball in towards the far post Tottenham win the header the ball cleared, Brighton quickly regain possession the ball played into the box Whelan still up from the back directs her header wide of goal.

Ronnell Humes in possession of the ball for Tottenham

The visitors are finishing the 1st half the stronger winning the ball in the middle Barton with a good challenge, Natkiel comes forwards lets fly form 25 yards out her shot deflected wide to the right Thomas after the loose ball sends her shot wide across the face of goal. Leon is fouled late in the 1st half a free-kick to Tottenham 10 yards inside the Brighton half players come forwards from the back as captain Jenna Schillaci plays a great ball into the area bouncing inside the six yard box their are appeals for a penalty as Hector goes down appearing to get caught by a high boot. Play stopped so she can receive treatment the protests are waved away.

  Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

   Sophie Perry’s 11th minute set-piece goal the difference between the two sides at half-time Brighton leading 1-0 have had the better chances in the 1st half. Have enjoyed more of the ball pressing Tottenham inside their own half whilst defending as a unit have prevented their opponents getting anything meaningful going forwards in attack. Just the 1 goal in it however plenty of time for Tottenham a turn it around with the 2nd half to come.

It’s gotten decidedly colder with a strong breeze blowing across the stadium has had some effect on the ball too during the match towards the end of the 1st half. Tottenham to kick-off the 2nd half have made a change at the break Maya Vio on for McKenzie in midfield. An early attack for the home side a tidy spin as the ball comes into her for Wiltshire 30 yards out sends the pass on looking for Humes making the break into the box, Gillett spotting the danger is out to the top of her area quickly to slide in and take the ball at the strikers feet. 

Tottenham’s Maya Vio & Brighton’s Jenna Legg battle for the ball

Brighton counter attack the ball moved forwards quickly with Gibbons finding space on the left take on the shot from distance cutting across the ball sending it sailing over the crossbar. Umotong a powerful runner on the ball hard to shake off wriggles clear as she makes a run towards the area, Hector across on the cover cuts out her strike. Up the other end Humes evades Perry’s tackle right corner plays a cross into the area Whelan heading clear at the far post for Brighton. 

Tottenham’s Renee Hector

Neville getting forwards for Tottenham wins a corner left side the ball played in is cleared by Rafferty at the near post. A great run by Leon coming into the Brighton half from the right for Tottenham coming inside closing in on the box opens up for a shooting opportunity instead the full back opts to lay the ball on for O’Leary inside the area to her right, Gillett already on the move dives in to claim the ball at the strikers feet.

 A 2nd change fro Tottenham closing in on the hour mark with Bianca Baptiste coming off the bench to replace Humes up top. An immediate impact by the substitute too as Tottenham come forwards she provides a great run across the top of the Brighton area as Wiltshire picks her put with a superb pass right of the D sends a shot it towards goal the ball inches over the crossbar.

Bianca Baptiste

   Leon fouled wide right players up from the back into the box as Schillaci plays the ball into the area, caught in the strong breeze, Gillett is forced into the save pushing the ball behind for the corner kick. The ball in from the left is scrambled away by Brighton. The visitors make their 1st change of the match Vicky Ashton-Jones celebrating her birthday today coming on for Rafferty at the back. Tottenham doing better now getting more players forwards Leon down the right, Ashton-Jones slides in to tackle conceding the corner. Gillett calls for the ball catching the delivery at her near post.

A corner won for Brighton with 20 minutes left to play before it is taken Tottenham make their 3rd change bringing on Wendy Martin for O’Leary in attack. Neville wins the ball from the corner for Tottenham heading the ball clear of her box. Getting the ball up the other end Pickett gets the better of Whelan flicking the ball over the defender aiming to get in behind into the area Gillett is again out rapidly to stifle the threat. 

   Gibbons with the ball left side as Brighton advance plays the pass inside to Umotong she lays it on for Natkiel who puts the shot in towards goal from 25 yards out Morgan behind it all the way catches cleanly. The game is a little stretched late on as Tottenham look to try and find an equalising goal, Wiltshire’s ball into the box from the right is chested away by Whelan straight into the path of Baptiste coming in from the left her 1st time shot from 20 yards out flies wide of the near post.

Ini Umotong getting past the Tottenham defence

A deflection on Baptiste’s shot a corner given delivered from the left in high towards the near post Martin gets her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, Gillett smothering it makes the save. Martin receiving the ball into her body turns and releases Baptiste on the left she cuts inside her shot landing in the side netting. 

  Brighton attack as the game moves into the final 10 minutes Umotong with the run right side her cross from the byline saved at the near post is deflected towards the top of the box with Natkiel looking to strike it back in towards goal, Vio racing back does enough to prevent the no 10 taking the 1st time shot, keeping her composure Natkiel still has the ball at her feet sends her shot up over the goal. 

Kirsty Barton beats Sarah Wiltshire to the ball

There are a few robust challenges being made late on Martin’s complaints she her shown a yellow card. Brighton make a 2nd change Legg coming off to be replaced by Natalie Taylor. The home side continue to press chances remain limited however Gillett claiming anything played from deep into the box. The game moving into injury time a late free-kick for Tottenham as Wilshire is brought down the ball curled in towards goal claimed comfortably by Gillett. 

A late chance for Brighton as they break the ball played up field into Umotong a powerful run on the ball into the box getting in behind the Tottenham back line as she moves left of goal six yards out looks to stab the ball wide back across goal past Morgan the goalkeeper down smartly makes a fantastic save.

  The final whistle blows and Brighton with a clean sheet win the 3 points thanks to Perry’s first half free-kick. Keeps the status quo at the top with Brighton staying fourth as the side above them all claimed victory too this Sunday.

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

   One defeat from their opening 6 league games Brighton are looking well placed to challenge Doncaster Rovers Belles for the title along with Durham Women FC and Millwall Lionesses. A good performance today especially 1st half pressing Tottenham well for the ball inside their opponents half making it difficult for the home side to get any momentum going forwards. Solid at the back too with Gillett always alert to any threat behind her defence. Tottenham created chances in the 2nd half bringing on Baptiste and Martin just couldn’t find that one clinical chance to take anything from the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   The 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match in 2018 goes to Brighton’s Fern Whelan. I thought the central defender had an excellent game at the back covering the ground well to keep Tottenham finding a way in behind and defending well from set-pieces. 

Good to be back at it after a lengthy break over Christmas enjoyed the football on display if not the cold. My thanks to the Tottenham staff for all their assistant today everyone was very helpful.  

Match Report – Stevenage Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

Sunday 3rd December

Action from the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup this Sunday afternoon a trip to Hertfordshire to watch the all FAWPL South East Division One tie between Stevenage Ladies and Ipswich Town Ladies.

History for Stevenage Ladies has already been made reaching the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time. Progressing well as a club overall supported well by Stevenage FC themselves the 1st team gaining promotion to the FAWPL the season before last, are building well on the pitch after their 1st season playing at this level in 8th position one point short of last season’s tally already. Manager Reece Buck recruiting over the close season bringing in Paige Logie, Ashleigh Deacon and the returning Nicole Emming’s all with Cambridge United WFC last season.

  The 1st team at Stevenage being pushed hard by their Reserves side leading the ERWFL Division One South winning all 9 of their opening league games scoring 52 goals along the way and yet to concede, keeping the 1st team on it’s toes. Stevenage entering the FA Women’s Cup in 3rd Round Qualifying a comfortable 8-0 win away to Hassocks LFC to reach the 1st Round Proper. At home to former ERWFL Premier Division rivals Acle United Ladies, Stevenage won 4-1 to reach the 2nd Round Proper.

Ipswich Town Ladies are currently 5th in FAWPL South East Division One actually their lowest position so far this season having been in the top four for a long period very much amongst those hoping to challenge for the title this season are unbeaten in 8 games in league and cup. Like Stevenage, Ipswich have a 2nd side a new Development side that won the Suffolk Women’s Division title in it’s 1st season now promoted to the ERWFL Division One North players from that side going on to appear for the 1st team. Have brought in Gemma Moore and Cassie Craddock previously with Lowestoft Town Ladies and Jordan Arnoup good to see her back on the pitch after a long period out of the game with injury. Speaking of injury however have unfortunately lost goalkeeper Leanne Smith to a long term injury, Sian Fagg usually playing outfield taking on the role between the sticks.

  Ipswich Town Ladies entered the FA Women’s Cup in 3rd Round Qualifying away to Cambridge City Ladies beating the ERWFL Premier Division side 5-1. At home in the 1st Round Proper taking on Leyton Orient WFC newly promoted to FAWPL South East Division One and up their in the top 4 with Ipswich the game finishing 2-2 in normal time Ipswich went on to win in extra-time 4-2 to progress to the 2nd Round Proper.

Stevenage play their home games at Hertingfordbury Park, home of Hertford Town FC. A good sized non league ground, a small seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms, a small clubhouse too serving hot and cold drinks. The pitch looking a little worn has seen alot of football looked a little boggy in places, at the start of December a reasonably cold day, gloomy and dull overhead but little chance of rain.

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

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

It’s Stevenage to kick off the match wearing white and red vertical striped shirts with red shorts and socks with Ipswich lined up opposite wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. The home side look to move the ball across the pitch forwards down the right side the ball played into the area with Amy Makewell giving chase, Ipswich’s Lindsey Cooper gets across to slide in to challenge, Makewell squeezes the ball in towards the near post goalkeeper Sian Fagg is across covering the angle gathers the ball.

   Ipswich win the ball in the middle of the park the pass out to Zoe Cossey left wing looks to attack sends the cross into the area cut out by Dominique Godbeer the middle of Stevenage’s 3 at the back the clearance falls to Ipswich captain midfielder Amanda Crump tries to lift the ball back into the Stevenage area the ball is cleared. Cossey with another run left side, Natasha Thomas and Jade Henry up front for Ipswich in the area her cross is over both retrieved by right back Jac Ball getting up the pitch on the right her cross is blocked by Stevenage’s Tanya Blacksley. The home side look to counter attack Ellie Searle on the ball carries it forwards is stopped by Cooper.

Stevenage Ladies, Ellie Searle

Room on the left wing for Leah Littlechild for Stevenage whips a cross into the box too close to the near post is collected by Fagg. Ipswich launch a rapid counter move the ball through the middle into Henry up top good control takes on the shot from 25 yards out is straight at goalkeeper Katherine Long who makes the comfortable save. Stevenage win their 1st corner of the game delivered left side Ipswich defend at the near post. 

Ipswich’s Jade Henry, marked by Stevenage’s Tanya Blacksley

A lively start to the game both sides competitive and looking to move the ball quickly little break in the action. Searle with another positive forwards run through the middle holding the ball up 25 yards out lays the pass back to captain Chloe Gunn she finds Littlechild free on the left going forwards her cross into the box is cleared comes back to the advancing Gunn now 20 yards out left shifts the ball then shoots the ball zipping in towards goal Fagg makes a great save getting low to her right to push the ball away from goal. 

  Ashleigh Deacon bringing the ball on down the right wing for Stevenage sees her cross into the area headed clear by Ipswich’s Harriet Petley. A free kick to Ipswich wide left on the halfway line Crump plays the ball long into the box to be attacked Jordan Arnoup gets her head on the ball sends her shot wide across the Stevenage goal however play is stopped by an offside flag. Henry and Thomas link up on the right wing as Ipswich launch a counter attack, Thomas sending a high ball in towards goal is collected at head height by Long at her near post.

   GOAL! 20 minutes into the game and the home side open the scoring attacking down the right side from a throw in the ball is with Deacon played into the area Makewell has made a fantastic run getting away from her marker, great control and shoots to send the ball in at the near post 1-0.

Amy Makewell opens the scoring for Stevenage Ladies

 Ipswich look for a quick response from the restart the ball with Cossey left side good footwork to get up the pitch the ball squared into the middle the shot is taken from distance doesn’t trouble Long in the Stevenage goal. A fantastic defensive tackle from Paige Logie to deny Cossey an opportunity to skip in behind with the ball as Craddock does well in the middle for Ipswich. Up the other end Gunn taking the ball forwards tries to play the through ball in for Makewell peeling off the centre backs, Ball is round on the cover for Ipswich to win the ball.

The wide players for both sides are seeing plenty of the ball, Cossey breaking forwards with purpose again left side sees Sophie Welton on the opposite flank looking to get into the box sends her cross long, Blacksley is aware of the threat to the Stevenage defender winning the ball at the top of her area. Littlechild has a clear field ahead of her on the left as the ball is won in the middle fired out to her driving forwards into the box strikes the shot the low ball racing wide across the face of goal. A throw in left side 25 yards out played in Makewell a turn and strike sweeps the shot wide across the goal. 

The goal has swelled Stevenage’s confidence are getting players forwards and pressurising the ball when out of possession. Welton brings down Gunn in a central position. Is Gunn to take the free kick 30 yards out goes for goal the ball over the wall straight at Fagg the keeper gathering the shot. All action Ball looks to go beyond Henry off an Ipswich throw inside the Stevenage half right side up ended by Gunn the visitors with a free kick outside the top corner of the area Crump plays the ball towards the far post, Stevenage regain he ball counter attack the ball up the field Makewell giving chase Fagg out to the edge of her area kicks the ball clear.

  Cossey with the ball left side her cross over Crump arriving in the box making a run from midfield, Blacksley beyond half clears the ball 20 yards out is dropping for Welton closed down can’t get the shot under control as she strikes the ball slicing it wide of the target. Ball makes a good run infield with the ball from the right on for Henry up front into the box, Godbeer does well getting across the attacker to get her head on the ball first, Long able to collect. Welton wins Ipswich a corner on the right players come forwards from the back one of those is Cooper, Crump’s delivery is perfect Cooper gets up 8 yards out headers the ball just over the crossbar. 

Lindsey Cooper header flies over the bar for Ipswich Town Ladies

More good defending from Godbeer to deny Henry a chance inside the box as the attacker looks to receive the ball from Welton’s good right wing run. Cossey on the opposite side whips a low cross in towards the near post Thomas there to try and attack it under challenge sends her attempt wide of goal. Fagg sliding in claims the ball before Searle can latch onto it inside the area following good control from Emmings to see the ball into her body centrally and send the pass into the box.   

Half-time Stevenage Ladies 1-0 Ipswich Town Ladies

   That 45 minutes flew by all action both sides constantly looking to get forwards no one getting much time on the ball. A lively contest both sides creating chances, Stevenage with the narrow advantage competing well, right now the tie looks like it could go either way cup football at its best.

No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half Ipswich to get the 2nd 45 underway. A little bit of hesitancy at the back from Stevenage as they break up an Ipswich attack however the visitors don’t capitalise the ball regained and cleared. Ipswich win a corner on the right following good work from Ball getting forwards receiving the lay off from Henry putting the ball in towards the top of the area. A great chance from a corner in the 1st half for Cooper, she is close again as the delivery is played in near post gets her head on the ball drills the attempt wide of the near post. 

Sophie Welton bringing the ball forwards for Ipswich Town Ladies

Stevenage get the ball forwards Breckenridge on for Makewell moving left her early cross into the area is over Emmings head central and evades Littlechild beyond out of play a corner is signalled. Taken from the right towards the top of the Ipswich area the ball is cleared back out to Emmings on the right sends the ball back into the area, Godbeer gets her head on the ball drops safely for Fagg to collect. 

  Cossey bringing the ball on down the left for Ipswich sends a pass forwards through the middle, Blacksley misses her clearance comes onto Henry 25 yards out the ball doesn’t sit the striker not catching it cleanly the shot bounces safely on for Long to gather. Searle is brought down by Cooper as she comes forwards through the middle with the ball for Stevenage. The free kick 25 yards out central Gunn over it goes for goal on target but straight into Fagg’s gloves.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Zoe Cossey

Getting a little more physical out there the referee needing to have a word with a few players from both sides, Ipswich half a free kick just inside their own half is played long into the area dipping on Long the keeper looks to have it inside her six yard box but spills it out to her right Crump racing in blasts her shot over from a tight angle. Another free kick on halfway this time Crump on the ball play it forwards into the area gets through the crowd is claimed by Long in goal beyond. 

  The energy levels remain high from both sides, Ipswich looking to get forwards Stevenage nipping at the ball winning it and looking to counter, Searle and Gunn ahead of Breckenridge. Crump gives away the free kick inside the centre circle the ball played high into the area his headed clear by Thomas for Ipswich. 

Cara Breckenridge on the ball for Stevenage Ladies

Ipswich come forwards Welton on the ball right inside to Craddock on for Cossey going up the left wing tackled by Logie the corner conceded. The ball is delivered near post drops to the floor Cooper tries to deflect it goalwards cleared back out to the taker put back into the area again Henry central sees her downwards header cleared off the line. Good defending from Petley for Ipswich as Searle plays the ball in behind for Emmings to chase Petley cutting out her cross. The visitors make the 1st change of the game Nicole Pannifer coming on for Henry. The substitute going to left back Arnoup moving into midfield.

Stevenage Ladies, Nicole Emmings

Direct play from Stevenage almost puts Gunn through on goal the ball kicked long by Long is flicked on with Gunn breaking in behind trying to get into the area, Fagg quick off her line slides in gathering the ball momentum seeing Gunn collide with her. Both are okay.

GOAL! Good work from Cossey on the right side the ball on for Thomas she is tackled by Godbeer inside the area to concede the corner kick. Ipswich already proving they are a threat from corners score the equalising goal the ball whipped in near post Thomas get’s up well to get her head on the ball powers it across goal and in off a defender who has no time at all to react 1-1.

Searle is fouled coming forwards for Stevenage on the left side half way out Gunn plays the ball long into the area appears to go through everyone and out of play however a corner is signalled. Played in towards Logie at the top of the area right of the D gets her foot over the ball her shot on target Fagg is prevented from gathering it on her line as a Stevenage player gets across her deflected out to the right a shot from close range is blocked a 2nd corner given this one successfully defended.

   The game is stretched a little moving into the last 15 minutes both sides still looking for a goal both believing the game is there to be won. Long makes a great save on her line as Thomas looks to sweep the shot home at the near post following Welton’s right wing cross. Stevenage make their 1st change of the match, Deacon coming off to be replaced by Kristi Burling. The referee has been reluctant to show any cards but the fouls are mounting up Crump is the 1st player booked sliding in from behind.

A penalty shout for Stevenage as Makewell goes down under challenge inside the box from a throw in on the left, the referee waves play on. Makewell is presented with a goal scoring chance at close range as Ipswich attempt to header the ball back to Fagg dropping late on the keeper the ball is spilt Makewell racing in pokes the ball wide of the left post. Ipswich work the ball down the right Crump inside for Craddock her shot from 25 yards out is charged down spins away to the right the cross drilled back in rebounds back off the near post then the follow up strike is blasted wide across the six yard box. Cossey with a run through the middle shoots wide from 25 yards out for Ipswich . The score remains 1-1 as the 90 minutes are up the tie heading into extra-time.

Full time Stevenage Ladies 1-1 Ipswich Town Ladies

  A really good match to watch, the action non stop either side could yet still win in Ipswich getting the equaliser 2nd half the energy levels from both sides remaining high throughout more fouls creeping in 2nd half.

Extra-time

  Ipswich to kick off the 1st period of extra-time. A great chance straight away for the visitors as Craddock steals possession from Burling at the back and plays the ball into the area right side with Ball providing the run a blasts her shot wide across the Stevenage goal. Makewell up the other end bursts forwards with the ball taking it into the right corner flashes a cross along the face of the Ipswich goal. 

Stevenage with a free kick wide on the left played into the top of the box Burling with the header sends the ball looping up into the air Ipswich head clear comes back to Searle plays the ball back into the area the 2nd clearance falling to Emming’s outside the area right of the D sends her shot wide. Stevenage press forwards Littlechild on the move left side her cross squared in along the top of the Ipswich area Makewell arriving sends her 1st time strike up over the bar.

Fagg with an easy save as the shot is put straight at her from distance by Emming’s following good work from Gunn winning the ball and playing her in. Gunn then shoots wide from distance following a run with the ball at her feet through the middle. Stevenage make a 2nd change Rebecca Scola coming on for Searle. A corner late in the 1st period of extra-time for Ipswich Thomas with the header on near post Arnoup central headers the ball down towards goal Stevenage clear.

 A substitution for Ipswich at the start of the 2nd period of extra-time, Miagh Downey on for Welton as Stevenage get thing’s started. Gunn with more good work on the ball for Stevenage is brought down by Thomas wide left. The ball cleared Ipswich attack the ball into Cossey through the middle no advance as she is tugged back by Burling the free kick awarded 30 yards out. The shot is attempted a yard wide of the top right corner. 

Both sides still going for it no one is shutting up shop a quick free kick taken by Stevenage has Emmings away down the left into the corner her cross in cleared by Cooper comes back to her, another cross put in lands in the side netting. Gunn brings the ball on plays it through for Emmings trying to get into the area from the left cut out by Petley the corner conceded, Stevenage make their final change before it is taken Danielle Maloney coming on for Makewell. From the left the corner is taken short rolled into Gunn coming and calling for it turns inside 25 yards out connects with the shot wall flying towards the top corner Fagg with a top class save to tip the ball up over her crossbar. 

Ipswich Town Ladies goalkeeper, Sian Fagg

  Thomas is shown a yellow after mounting up the warnings a free kick for Stevenage wide right Emmings over it goes for the shot angling in near post another excellent save from Fagg to tip the ball over once again. The corner taken from the left cleared into Gunn outside the box central blazes her shot over the crossbar. Stevenage pressing hard late on Ipswich make a late change Gemma Moore their final substitution coming on for Cossey. The final whistle and this tie will be settled from the penalty spot.

Penalties

  I might have mentioned I hate penalty shootouts before so moving on it’s a lottery now both sides have put so much into the game a late winner for either side would have been tough to take. A shootout then for a place in the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup.

The sides gather on halfway to watch the penalty shootout

   Stevenage to take the opening penalty kick. Breckenridge puts the ball down on the spot and takes it, Fagg dives to her left guessing right the ball misses running wide of the post 0-0.

Arnoup to take Ipswich’s first penalty kick, a confident strike through the middle high into the back of the net to give the visitors the advantage 0-1.

Jordan Arnoup scores Ipswich Town Ladies first penalty

  Up comes Logie to take Stevenage’s 2nd penalty sends the ball low towards the bottom left corner Fagg guesses right getting down to make the save 0-1.

  Thomas walks forwards to take Ipswich’s 2nd penalty no messing straight down the middle to double the advantage 0-2.

   Emming’s comes forwards to take Stevenage’s third penalty goes the opposite side to the previous two wrong footing Fagg however sending the ball high, too high it goes over the crossbar 0-2.

  Up comes Moore to take Ipswich’s 3rd penalty only just introduced to the action no doubt not expecting her penalty to be the one that would send Ipswich through to the 3rd Round, a low and confident strike through the middle she turns to celebrate and is mobbed by her on rushing team mates Ipswich win on penalties 3-0.

It’s a cruel way to end a match but it has to be settled one way or anther Ipswich go through to the 3rd Round Proper extend their unbeaten run to 9 games too. A great game to watch a good sized crowd in attendance too, witnessed a good contest between two committed sides end to end and rarely stopping to draw breath. Stevenage’s run comes to an end but shouldn’t be disappointed too much a great effort today. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   I do make it hard for myself at times since deciding to name a Women’s Football East – Player of the Match another tough call today good performances from players on both sides all over the pitch the back 3 for Stevenage, Fagg with some excellent saves in extra-time, Cossey on the wing for Ipswich. Overall however for today’s Player of the Match I have gone with Stevenage’s captain, Chloe Gunn, a tremendous work rate in the middle of the park good timing of passes and runs forwards a threat from a set-piece too.

   Enjoyed today got to love a cup tie, a great game to watch, tough to end on penalties. My thanks to both sides for their help today. Best of luck to Ipswich Town Ladies in the 3rd Round Draw.

Match Report – Fakenham Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves

 

Sunday 26th November

The football action on Women’s Football East comes from Norfolk Women’s Division One, been a while since I’ve been up to Clipbush Park home of Fakenham Town Ladies to watch them take on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves.

Fakenham Town Ladies are an established side in the top tier of women’s football in Norfolk. Although finding themselves at the wrong end of the table recently without looking in danger of relegation. Are currently in 8th position with just the one win from their opening 5 league matches. 3 points today would get them comfortably into mid-table in what is once again looking to be a hotly contested league this season.

 Wymondham Town Ladies are one of the most ambitious sides in Norfolk winning the Division One title two season’s ago have made the set up into the regional league finishing 3rd in their 1st season. Their success bringing in an influx of players and the formation of a Reserves side last season. Won the Norfolk Women’s Division Three title last season. Jump straight into Division One this season with the county league switching back to a two league format with an influx of new sides all those in Division Two stepped up along with Wymondham a huge jump maybe but counter acted by the fact Wymondham have a number of their former title winning side available for the Reserves and you would expect them to challenge for the top half of the table currently in 6th a win today would put them right amongst the top 4.

 The venue for today’s match one of the best available to a women’s side in Norfolk, Fakenham Town Ladies playing at Clipbush Park on the main pitch along side the men’s 1st team. The ground has practice pitches beyond. The main pitch with a small seated stand one side the changing rooms an clubhouse opposite with a bar and hot drinks available. A good sized pitch offering plenty of width. A bright day, but chilly no wind a few clouds around the sun starting to set behind one of the goals. The new hat was needed to protect the ears.

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Jennie Codman, Selina Goodrum, Karina Townsend, Jemma Riches, Natalie Wright, Fanny Danskanen, Sophie Anderson, Rochelle Woods, Sam King (C) & Sian Sands. Subs – Maddie Smith.

Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves starting XI – Laura Watson, Gemma Perry, Leanne Smith, Emma Chambers, Mary North, Laura Hammerton (C), Alice Collins, Emily Anderson, Gabby Stone, Sally Hammerton & Eleanor Norton. Subs – Amy Burton & Emily Bullett.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    A change of half at the coin toss with Wymondham opting to have the sun setting behind goal at one end behind their backs, Fakenham to kick off the 1st half wearing Amber coloured shirts with black across the heart and down the left sleeve, black shorts and socks. Wymondham wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. Keeping the ball at the back Fakenham spread play out to the left Natalie Wright with the threaded pass forwards for Fanny Danskanen to attack down the right, Leanne Smith playing left back for Wymondham gets across the winger to play the ball out for a throw.

Wymondham captain Laura Hammerton gets hold of the ball in the middle of the park plays the ball forwards towards the right of the box with striker Sally Hammerton making to run, Fakenham’s Karina Townsend goes with her putting the tackle in to send the ball away for a throw in the right corner. Winning the ball at the back the pass into midfield finds Jennie Codman taking the ball on sends it forwards looking to play Sian Sands in through the middle, a good starting position from Wymondham goalkeeper Laura Watson sees her kick the ball clear from the edge of her area, not aware the flag was raised for offside.

   Good build up play from Fakenham getting players forwards as the ball is carried over half way into the Wymondham half the diagonal pass finds Rochelle Woods in space on the left crosses the ball along the box finding captain Sam King at the top of the D, good control flicking the ball up off the ground to strike on the half volley from 20 yards out sends her effort wide of the far post. A good start from the home side Wymondham hit them on the counter the ball played on for Sally Hammerton moving right side again goalkeeper Chloe Easter moves out to that side of her box to kick the ball clear instead plays it straight to a Wymondham boot 25 yards out central the shot comes in low Wright getting the block in as the defence back pedals to protect the goal.

GOAL!  The cleared ball spins out to the left wing coming forwards Gabby Stone plays the cross in early heading into the six yard box is straight onto the head of Sally Hammerton at the far post unchallenged a deft header to loop the ball up back across goal to drop over the line to give the visitors the lead inside the opening 10 minutes 0-1.

Sally Hammerton scores the goal to give Wymondham the early lead.

A positive response from Fakenham straight from the restart the ball at the feet of Wright she carries it forwards from the back over the half way line a great ball forwards sees King giving chase to the ball inside the Wymondham box, the ball defended by Emma Chambers conceding the 1st corner of the game. Wymondham defend the near post the ball played back to the taker the 2nd ball in headed clear. 

Emma Chambers winning the ball for Wymondham

Fakenham make a change bringing of Sophie Anderson send on Maddie Smith the change seeing Wright move forwards into a midfield role. Fakenham bring the ball forwards Wright in possession on to Woods moving left her pass on for Sands on the left wing reaching the top of the area whips the cross into the box, Mary North heading clear at the near post for Wymondham. Danskanen wins Fakenham a throw attacking down the right wing the ball put into Wright is fired into the area, a mis-cue from Watson as she goes to kick the ball to safety misses, turns to see the ball race harmlessly wide across her goal. 

GOAL!  The momentum remains with the home side pushing bodies forwards Wright with a great crossfield pass picking out Woods on the move down the left wing in behind the full back reaching the box strikes the ball her rising shot flying towards goal smashes against the crossbar dropping down into play Watson attempts to catch in with King rushing in the keeper loses it and it drops over the line 1-1.

Wymondham make a change Amy Burton coming on for Emily Anderson. Fakenham pressing the ball well attacking the ball with Sands 25 yards out left side releases a shot looks to be heading well over as she connects but dips very late threatening to drop under the crossbar Watson on her line with a very good claim. 

Wymondham’s Gemma Perry

Wymondham look to get the ball forwards into their attackers, out left side Stone wins a corner the ball into the area a good one defended at the near post is cleared out towards the top of the box, met by Eleanor Norton she hits the shot back on the low ball getting through the crowd races wide of the post. A competitive contest especially in the middle of the park, Fakenham having runners willing to go whenever the ball is in their possession. 

Wymondham’s Eleanor Norton with Fakenham’s Natalie Wright

Smith on the overlap on the left for Wymondham gets forwards as Laura Hammerton regains possession inside the Fakenham half her pass finding the full back her cross fired in low towards the area is cut out by Selina Goodrum for Fakenham. Woods is fouled 25 yards out a free kick to Fakenham the ball played into the area won by Chambers. Watson soon after claiming at her near post as Sands whips in the cross from the right.

GOAL! Fakenham turn the game around having come back from a goal down now take the ur pushing the lead with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half. Pushing forwards the home side have Woods on space on the left the pass picking her out she takes the ball on before firing a great cross along the top of the area, runners coming in, Danskanen amongst them far post running onto the ball fires her shot past the keeper to bury the ball into the back of the net 2-1.

Wymondham look for a quick response getting the ball out to Norton out wide left she plays the ball into Sally Hammerton positioned at the top of the area, looking to let the ball run across her body and turn onto the shot is closely marked by Townsend the defender blocking to strike as Hammerton goes to shoot the ball spinning away wide for the throw on the right. Norton with more good work on the left taking her marker on and getting the cross in towards the near post, Easter with a good claim.

Sam King getting hold of the ball for Fakenham Town Ladies

 Fakenham continue to press well players attacking the back four pushing the Wymondham defence deeper making it harder for the visitors to get the ball forwards with sufficient numbers to attack when they regain possession. Codman with the ball into the box looking for King cut out by North her clearance cleared by Laura Hammerton before Woods can race onto it 25 yards out. From a throw in deep on the left Codman with the ball whips a vicious ball through the Wymondham six yard box Danskanen arriving far post under challenge from Smith can’t get anything on the ball to deflect it towards goal.

 Almost a moment of magic from Woods as the ball comes into her from the midfield position in a central position just inside the Wymondham box brings the ball down on her chest flicks it up with her right foot the spinning strikes the ball on her volley with her left the ball whipped in towards goal curling wide of the right post. Great combination play between Wright, Danskanen and King on the right side the cross fired into the box cleared by Chambers.

Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 2-1 Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves

  An entertaining 1st half at Clipbush Park, Fakenham Town Ladies doing well coming back from conceding an early goal to lead 2-1. Pushing the Wymondham defence deeper with players pushing forwards and limiting chances up the other end. Wymondham not managing to do the same up the other end giving the Fakenham defence time to get into position.

The sun getting lower in the sky the temperature dropping rapidly very chilly now the action resuming with Wymondham kicking off the 2nd half. Intent from the visitors straight away the ball with Sally Hammerton wide right plays the pass in towards the top of the area with Collins breaking forwards from midfield, Townsend stabbing a foot in to take the ball away from her, Norton arriving connects with the cleared ball fires her shot in low wide across the Fakenham goal. 

Wymondham captain, Laura Hammerton evades the challenge from Sian Sands as she brings the ball forwards

Receiving the ball from a throw on the left Laura Hammerton takes on the shot from all of 30 yards out her effort flying wide of the target. A strong start to the 2nd half from Wymondham who stayed out on the pitch during half time Fakenham a little slow to get going. Wymondham getting players forwards from midfield to support the attackers, Laura Hammerton and Collins both making good runs.

GOAL! It’s one of these runs that brings about the equalising goal, Laura Hammerton bursting forwards with the ball goes on with her run as the pass finds Sally Hammerton on the right wing she plays the ball forwards on for the midfielder breaking into the box right side she squares the ball across the six yard box for Norton running in with her the no 9 firing the ball home to make it 2-2. 

Wymondham’s Eleanor Norton

A change for Wymondham after the goal with Emily Bullett coming on to replace Perry at right back. Fakenham come forwards King running in behind on the right side taking the ball down the line sends the cross in angling towards goal, Watson at her near post take it cleanly. Fakenham keep possession around the Wymondham box eventually winning a corner right side the ball is headed away at the near post dropping to Codman outside the area looks to drag the ball between her legs make room for a shot but closed down gives away the foul. 

Wymondham’s Laura Hammerton is fouled as she attempts to hold on the ball on the edge of the area from a throw in. Taking the set-piece herself Hammerton strikes the ball well aiming it low in towards the near post Fakenham have plenty of bodies there the ball skimming off the post however as it is cleared for the corner kick.

GOAL! Collins taking the corner on the left sees her 1st attempt in towards the near post headed behind for another corner the 2nd attempt put into the same area sliced behind for a 3rd corner. From this Wymondham retake the lead the delivery going further towards the top of the area Danskanen getting up highest to head the ball her effort turned towards her own goal, wide of Easter nothing she can do except watch it land in the back of her net unfortunate from the home side Wymondham having started the 2nd half well lead 2-3.

The response is quick in coming from falling a goal behind as it has been from both sides so far in the match, Wright playing the ball into Woods moving clear into space left side a touch inside before sending a 25 yard shot curling in towards goal, aiming top corner the ball whistles past the wrong side of the post. 

A high ball played in towards the Wymondham area by Fakenham the visitors struggle to get it away dropping for Woods central 20 yards out her shot is deflected wide for a corner kick on the right, players coming forwards for the set-piece Wymondham clear at the near post the break is on the ball played up field into Sally Hammerton she carries it on has support through the middle from Collins giving her the ball sprints on into the box Collins playing the ball on, Easter comes out well to claim the ball before Hammerton can reach it.

 Fakenham from a throw deep on the right King linking up with Danskanen her cross fired in low into the box into Woods’ feet she lays the ball off for Wright coming in her shot his charged down by Chambers, back out to King wide right her cross back in headed away by North. 

Stone is hurt after a sliding challenge needs to come off for Wymondham, Perry returning to the action. King picking up the ball from inside the Wymondham half takes it forwards left side taking on three players before unleashing a shot her effort blocked the clearance running straight into Danskanen she sends her shot from 25 yards out over the crossbar. Fakenham make a change Anderson returning to the pitch in place of Woods. King with another run with the ball coming into the Wymondham area from the right this time doesn’t get past Chambers. 

Fakenham Town Ladies, Maddie Smith

Goodrum clears the ball for a corner after Easter makes the save with her legs on the edge of her area with Sally Hammerton running in behind the defence played through by Collins. The corner whipped in from the right is almost turned in by the keeper as it comes in near post head high getting a glove on the ball it flashes across the face of goal before being cleared. Up the other end a great starting position from Watson denies King a shooting opportunity as she is put in behind by Wright the keeper launching the ball up field.

   More good link up play between Laura and Sally Hammerton the midfielder sending the ball through the centre for the attacker to chase heading towards the box checks her run holding up the and losing her marker shapes to shot outside the box left of the D curling the ball in towards goal, is straight at Easter the goalkeeper plucking the ball out of the air. North on a free-kick for Wymondham inside the centre circle plays a great ball into the area over the defence falling left side gathered by Norton she wraps her foot around the all her cross caught by Easter at her near post. Woods returns to the pitch for Fakenham.

GOAL! King is a willing runner up top for Fakenham and when she gets into full flight a challenge has to be timed well, breaking in behind as the ball is played on towards the area right side Watson comes sliding out brings King down, concern as she goes down inside the box has a troublesome ankle the referee points to the spot a penalty kick awarded Watson shown a yellow card. Anderson comes back on for Fakenham King on her feet limping off. Sands to take the penalty a confident strike hit with plenty of pace rising Watson gets a glove on the ball but can’t stop it sailing into the top corner as Fakenham come back from behind to level for the 2nd time in the match 3-3. 

5 minutes of regular time left to play the light starting to fade. The game is a little stretched a few tired legs out there. A long clearance by Smith at the back for Fakenham has Woods running in behind, Watson does well to take the ball safely into her body as she is closed down. Townsend defends well against Norton as the attacker looks to get into the box the ball behind for the corner. Late into stoppage time the ball is played into the area from the left Fakenham successfully defend at the near post the ball behind but no time for another corner as the referee blows the final whistle.

 The points are shared the sides drawing 3-3 Fakenham coming back from behind twice to equalise a fair result over all, and entertaining game a good watch for the neutral although I was probably the only one there. An early lead for Wymondham, Fakenham responding well a strong 1st half seeing them overall the deficit to lead 2-1. Started slow 2nd half and Wymondham didn’t came back strongly themselves to get back into the game and then retake the lead only to concede a late penalty and see Fakenham level the scores.  

   Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  These decisions never get any easier, picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match good performances all over the pitch in midfield in particular, Laura Hammerton having a good game getting hold of the ball her midfield run in the 2nd half getting Wymondham back on level terms. Also doing a great job in midfield today was Fakenham’s Natalie Wright having started at the back with some good challenges and runs her move into midfield spurred the home side on and from it the momentum turned 1st half so today’s Player of the Match goes to Natalie Wright.

My thanks to both clubs today for helping me out at short notice with the team details, a good game to watch plenty of action as is always the case in Norfolk.

Match Report – King’s Lynn Town Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

 

Sunday 19th November

The football action this Sunday comes from The Walks, home of King’s Lynn Town FC, the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, with King’s Lynn Town Ladies taking on higher league opponents Norwich City Ladies.

 King’s Lynn Town Ladies getting the opportunity to play at The Walks again with all their home county cup ties played there. Football on a high in the town with all 3 King’s Lynn sides currently doing well in their respective leagues. The ladies side making the step up from county to regional league this season are doing fantastically well in the ERWFL Division One North on a great run of form, 4 points clear at the top of the table with just the one defeat so far in the league. A bye in the first round of the County Cup a tough draw and test in the 2nd round taking on Norwich City Ladies playing 2 leagues higher.

   Norwich City Ladies return to the County Cup after a 3 season absence the FAWPL South East Division One side previously dominating the County Cup, a leading force in women’s football in Norfolk for a long time. Battling at the wrong end of the table the County Cup a welcome distraction and a chance for Norwich to pursue silverware. The footballing map in Norfolk has changed a little in their absence from the County Cup, 3 potential challengers to their dominance emerging, all 3 plying their trade in the ERWFL, all ambitious, Acle United Ladies, Wymondham Town Ladies and King’s Lynn Town Ladies themselves all wanting to reach the FAWPL themselves.

 With the current County Cup holders, Thorpe United Ladies knocked out of the competition in the previous round by Wymondham Town Ladies, the County Cup is there for the taking.

The Walks the venue the large mainstand over looking a large pitch offering plenty of width. Seen plenty of action a little cut up, half the pitch shaded by the mainstand, a chilly but bright afternoon, no wind, great conditions for the match. The cafe open offering hot and cold drinks, with a barbecue outside that would tempt me at half-time. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Vikttorija Burkauskaite, Jessica Evans, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Charlotte Griffith, Becky Russell (C), Shelley Woods, Tiffany Forshaw, Georgia Reardon & Jade Kelly. Subs – Elle Bocking, Olivia Baker & Michelle Stewart-Sheen.

Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Fiona Coombes, Millie Daviss, Summer Ward, Emily Moerkerk, Grace Parker (C), Sasha Diston, Paige Shorten, Aimee Durrant, Vivian Moyo, Natasha Snelling & Charlotte Broad. Subs – Eliza McDonald & Chelsea Garrett.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Handshakes before the match.

It’s Norwich to get the match underway playing in their traditional yellow and green kit with King’s Lynn in their home colours, blue shirts with yellow sleeves, yellow shorts and blue socks. Norwich press into the King’s Lynn half, Vivian Moyo a summer signing for Norwich from Norfolk Division One Champion’s, Thorpe United Ladies winning her side a throw deep in the King’s Lynn half the ball worked in towards the top of the area cleared by Kin’g Lynn’s Shanice Burch. 

  The home side look to play the ball out from the back, Norwich push bodies up pressure the ball, Sasha Diston returning to Norwich after a spell in Suffolk with AFC Sudbury Ladies nips in to win the ball off Albany Hodgson plays the long diagonal pass out to the right with Aimee Durrant on the move looking to get in behind the home defence is fouled as she crosses the ball into the area a free kick awarded to Norwich outside the box, midfielder Paige Shorten on the set piece looks to curl the ball in towards goal puts her effort over the bar.

A good start from Norwich getting players forwards from midfield to support the attackers, Shorten winning the tackle plays the ball into Charlotte Broad ahead of her outside the area wraps her foot around the ball playing it out to the right with Durrant on the move again, just a little early this time the offside flag up against her. King’s Lynn play the ball into captain Becky Russell she lays it forwards for Shelley Woods up the left keeping the ball in play knocks it inside for Jade Kelly up front looking to get into the area left of goal, Norwich’s Emily Moerkerk getting back to slide in to tackle the attacker put the ball behind for the corner.

GOAL! From the resulting corner King’s Lynn take the lead, Russell to play the ball in, initially aimed at Tiffany Forshaw at the near post her attempted flick on is cleared coming straight back to Russell on the left one touch and fires the ball in hard across the face of goal the ball going it at the far post with players diving in, none get a touch the goal is Russell’s, King’s Lynn lead 1-0.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain, Becky Russell opens the scoring

   The ball won back from the restart Woods is in behind for King’s Lynn taking the ball on into the box left side snatches her shot wide of the near post. Norwich go forwards the pass through the centre into Broad touched out to Moyo left side has support from Summer Ward behind her the left back firing the ball back into the area, Hodgson and Burch close Broad down the ball successfully defended.

  A competitive game both sides wanting to use the width of the pitch little time for anyone on the ball. Norwich with Moyo on the ball left side puts the pass inside to Natasha Snelling 20 yards on controls on the turn and strikes the ball towards goal, keeper Bryony Russell-Smith can’t get anything on it as it flies over her head, smashes against the crossbar dropping down into play inside the six yard box right of goal Durrant looks to hit it on the volley buries the ball into the side netting wide. 

  Norwich make the 1st change of the game, bring off Moyo, send on Chelsea Garrett. Norwich press the ball in midfield, Shorten stealing possession takes the ball on towards the area, will strike the ball from distance given half a chance and can get plenty of power behind the ball too, lining up to shoot top of the area Burch gets across in the nick of time to slide in and deny the chance.  

Norwich City Ladies, Paige Shorten

A volleyed clearance from King’s Lynn gives attacker Georgia Reardon a chance to run at the Norwich defence through the centre, Grace Parker, Norwich’s captain at centreback defends well against backtracking towards her area the ball cleared out to Russell on the right, King’s Lynn get plenty into the box as she goes to cross, the ball too close to goal, keeper Fiona Coombes with a solid take at her near post. 

Norwich City Ladies, Charlotte Broad

Broad looks to get hold of the ball inside the King’s Lynn half taking it forwards jinks left then right to line up a strike from 25 yards out Burch onrushing closes her down the ball deflected out wide for the throw in, the cross fired into the centre of the six yard box, Russell-Smith with a confident claim being closed down by Snelling. Norwich having more of the ball, King’s Lynn organised at the back not letting anything in behind. Norwich make another change bringing off Millie Daviss at the back bringing on Eliza McDonald. 

No advantage in the middle after Shorten is clipped passing the ball on for Snelling through the middle. A good 35 yards out, Durrant to take, a good effort clipped over the King’s Lynn wall on target dipping late just not quite enough a foot over the bar. Diston plays the ball forwards for Garrett in chase in behind the King’s Lynn defence fro once, bearing down on the box, Russell-Smith out of her area to challenge the striker, just about does enough the ball deflected off her legs out to the left into the area Garrett after it and empty goal to aim at if she can reach it, Vikttorija Burkauskaite gets there 1st however for King’s Lynn the right back sliding in to put the ball behind for the corner.

   Played in from the left with pace into the six yard box King’s Lynn clear runs straight out for Shorten latching onto the shot 25 yards out the ball is driven in low on target too many legs to get through is deflected wide to safety. Shorten with another long range pop minutes later swerving in the air, Russell-Smith behind the ball spills it behind for the corner kick sent in near post King’s Lynn get it away up field. Broad with another powerful run on the ball through the middle, good defending from Hodgson staying on her shoulder and timing her tackle well.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Albany Hodgson

Late into the 1st half King’s Lynn get players forwards the ball with Russell on the right a corner is won the ball played in low towards Forshaw at the near post is once again back to Russell swing the ball into towards the penalty area Parker rises highest to clear for Norwich. 

Half-time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 1-0 Norwich City Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half with King’s Lynn holding a narrow 1-0 lead over Norwich. The home side with a good 1st half performance to match their higher league opponents. Norwich with more of the ball haven’t been able to carve open the King’s Lynn defence and create many clear cut chances. King’s Lynn not having many themselves the ball hotly contested in the middle, will Norwich find a levelling goal 2nd half or can King’s Lynn build on their lead?

  No changes for either side at the start of the 2nd half Norwich out onto the pitch early. The temperature dropping it’s King’s Lynn to get the 2nd 45 underway. A quiet start to the 2nd half Norwich breaking up a King’s Lynn attack go forwards Durrant on the right plays the pass inside to Garrett helps it infield to Broad, Shorten goes beyond her the ball rolled into her path she tries to dink the ball up over the defence for Snelling, instead runs safely through to Russell-Smith. Space for Snelling drifting out to the left side the ball played forwards stands up in the turf preventing her getting on into the box, giving Burkauskaite time to get back on her make the tackle.

Forshaw’s turn to find some room out wide right for King’s Lynn the ball played on by Charlotte Griffith taking it forwards, Forshaw rides the challenge as Diston comes sliding in, keeping her feet the striker pulls the trigger from 20 yards out pulls the ball wide across the face of goal. A counter attack from King’s Lynn from a Norwich throw level with their box the ball sent long for Kelly in space left running towards the box 40 yards out, goalkeeper, Coombes has to come a long way from the ball Kelly goes to lob her, the ball over her bounces harmlessly wide of her goal. 

The game getting a little stretched Norwich risking a high line at the back as they look to press the ball higher up the pitch almost presents King’s Lynn with an attacking opportunity the ball won off a deflection in the middle Kelly after it, Ward coming round on the cover making a fantastic tackle to get the ball back to Coombes. Norwich with possession wide right Garrett wins the throw the resulting ball lifted high into the area, drops to Broad lays it on to Garrett, gets her foot over the ball smashes the bouncing ball back in towards goal is taken by Russell-Smith at her near post. 

King’s Lynn make their 1st change of the match bringing on Olivia Baker for Reardon, the switch pushing Forshaw into a more advanced role. A free-kick for King’s Lynn a good way out from goal as Russell is fouled. Woods on the ball takes aim for goal the ball on target, Coombes behind it all the way catches on the bounce. A knock to the ankle for Broad the Norwich attacker needing to come off Moyo coming back on. 

Shorten on the ball rolls in forwards for Snelling out to Garrett right side knocks the ball forwards looking to attack the box, her tough a little heavy allows Evans to get across her and clear the ball for a throw in. Norwich keep the ball inside the King’s Lynn half comes into Ward on the left the pass forwards for Durrant the winger cutting inside charging for the box the ball knocked forwards deflected off the King’s Lynn defence back to Durrant looks to curl a shot in towards goal, does so only succeeds in picking out Russell-Smith the keeper behind the shot.

Norwich City Ladies, Summer Ward

A throw on the left for Norwich the pass sees Ward breaking in behind the King’s Lynn defence her cross flashed across the six yard box cleared back out to Snelling some 30 yards out strikes the ball sweetly arrowing towards the top corner, Russell-Smith with an excellent save the ball tipped over the bar, corner conceded played in for Moyo at the near post six yards out can’t turn and get a shot away the King’s Lynn defence on her to clear the ball. Norwich with a sustained spell of pressure, King’s Lynn break the ball long for Forshaw right into the box looks to take on the shot plays the ball straight into Coombes’ gloves at her near post. 

Durrant’s runs out wide and through the middle are posing a threat for Norwich this time brought down in the middle 35 yards out Durrant on the free kick herself looks to go for goal her strike landing on the roof of the net. Soon after another run from Durrant cutting in from the left sees her brought crashing down by Russell the King’s Lynn captain shown the yellow card. NB (*Russell given final warning by referee not cautioned). A dangerous position 20 yards out from goal Durrant takes sending the ball angling towards the far post Hodgson gets her head on the ball sending it on for the corner which is successfully defended at the near post.

Norwich City Ladies, Aimee Durrant

   GOAL! 20 minutes left to play and King’s Lynn double their advantage. Forshaw further forwards now the scorer as she is played in from the left into the box, Coombes comes rushing in to dive at her feet the ball squirming through to the left cries for a penalty but Forshaw riding the challenge stays on her feet retrieves the ball on the byline and keeping her composure lifts the ball in towards goal to make it 2-0.

Tiffany Forshaw doubles the advantage for King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Norwich make a change Broad recovering from her knock returning for Snelling rejoins the attack. Shorten with a brilliant long range pass from halfway picks out Ward on the overlap left side into the corner, Kelly back on her tackles to put the ball behind for the corner. 

Red card! Pressing for a goal Norwich committing players forwards leave space at the back Forshaw ready to go when King’s Lynn break up play, Burch with the tackle the ball into the centre helped on to Forshaw right side a yard on Parker bearing down on the area, the defender dives in gets the ball but goes through Forshaw to do so bringing her down, the last defender Moerkerk might have gotten round on the cover but the referee doesn’t think so, Parker is sent off. Russell to take the resulting free kick her effort into the area deflected wide of goal. 

15 minutes left King’s Lynn make another change, player manager Michelle Stewart-Sheen coming on for Evans at left back. King’s Lynn working hard as a team to defend giving very little away. Garrett on for Shorten running on ahead of her shoots from 20 yards out a fine save from Russell-Smith low to her right. Russell-Smith is then hurt in an accidentally collision coming out to the edge of her area to claim the ball on her knees, Broad trying to throw herself over the keeper catching her on the side of her face with her knee. Both need a few moments but are okay to continue. Durrant on the right driving with the ball into the box shoots, Russell-Smith close in low to her right pushes the ball behind for the corner kick.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell with Norwich’s Paige Shorten

GOAL! Norwich have players up from the corner the ball cleared by King’s Lynn is with Durrant right side the shot is fired in with venom across goal skims off the crossbar falling back into play at the far post inside the six yard box, Moyo reacts smartly stabbing the ball over the line before being closed down 2-1. Game on with 5 minutes of normal play left.

A frantic end to the game the ball up either end Kelly placing a wild shot wide across the Norwich area. Broad breaking through the middle for Norwich her 1st touch too heavy allowing Burch the opportunity to get in front of her shield the ball back to Russell-Smith. Snelling on for Daviss returns to the action late on for Norwich as they search for an equaliser. A reckless sliding tackle from Hodgson on Broad sees the defender yellow carded. The free-kick in a dangerous position 30 yards out Shorten to go for goal a tame effort bounces through to the keeper. 

 Into stoppage time Broad can’t continue, Daviss back on as the visitors press on. King’s Lynn stand firm keeping a good shape Griffith breaking up play looking to get Woods away left side. Coombes gathers sends the ball long knocked on now way through the centre of the King’s Lynn defence, Russell bringing it forwards. The final whistle blows and King’s Lynn celebrate a memorable win.

Full time King’s Lynn Town Ladies 2-1 Norwich City Ladies

   2-1 to King’s Lynn Town Ladies at The Walks to go through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. A good performance from start to finish working hard as a team to give little away, press the ball in the middle and time their attacks. Norwich with more of the ball had opportunities to score but found it difficult to find any openings in behind their opponents defence. Was an entertaining game another great showcase for women’s football in Norfolk.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   A few contenders for today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith with some excellent saves. Shanice Burch at the back and Tiffany Forshaw up top too, but in the end it was a quality performance from King’s Lynn captain Becky Russell from the 1st minute to the last and she is today’s Player of the Match.

Another good game at The Walks, my thanks to both sides for their help again today and best of luck to King’s Lynn Town Ladies in the next round of the County Cup.

 

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Long Eaton United Ladies

 

Sunday 12th November

 Returning to the football after a well needed rest the action this Sunday from the FA Women’s Cup the qualifying rounds on to the 1st Round Proper of the competition at Mildenhall Town FC today to watch Cambridge United WFC v Long Eaton United Ladies.

FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC enjoyed a fantastic run in the FA Women’s Cup last season making it all the way to the 3rd Round Proper where they were eventually knocked out by FAWSL 2 side Aston Villa Ladies. Will be hoping for another good run this time around. 5th in the league have a much changed squad from last season several new faces in the side haven’t achieved the consistency of results from last season that saw them amongst the title challengers. 

  My 1st look at Derbyshire side, Long Eaton United Ladies now into their 2nd season in FAWPL Midlands Division One. Currently searching for a new 1st team manager struggled in the league early on losing 5 of their opening 6 games however have recovered recently finding form winning their last 3 matches in league and cup. 

  Both sides entering the competition in the last round, 3rd Round Qualifying faced fellow sides from their respective leagues, Cambridge United WFC  hosting Norwich City Ladies winning 4-0. Long Eaton United Ladies were also at home beat Leicester City Ladies 3-1 to advance into the 1st Round Proper.

  The venue for today’s game, Mildenhall Town FC the pitch as ever looking in fantastic condition, sloping from one goal to the other. A chilly day with a strong breeze blowing down the pitch, cloudy but no rain forecast. 

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Chloe Crook, Nettie Stillinger, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Carolyn Sarafian, Laura Bright (C), Laura Baker, Charlotte Crisp, Emma Jenkins Amy Howlett, Nuala Wayne & Lauren Gibson. Subs – Gabrielle Whitehurst, Lauren Cartwright & Amber Cantwell.

Long Eaton United starting XI – Lia Kellogg, Laura Robinson, Lucie Johnstone, Cala Thornton, Katherine Clarice (C), Amy Pashley, Chloe Dixon, Laura Sears, Jade Arber, Viki Adam & Cara Newton. Subs – Elle Rowson, Suzanne Hart, Jamie Kingham.

A minutes silence observed before kick-off like all matches across the country to mark Remembrance Sunday. It’s the visitors Long Eaton to kick off the 1st half with the wind in their favour. Wear an all navy blue kit. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black shirts, black shorts and socks. A scrappy opening to the game Cambridge pressing Long Eaton in possession. A ball threaded through the midfield by Long Eaton’s Amy Pashley almost has striker Viki Adams through on the Cambridge goal, a great tackle from captain, Laura Bright playing in midfield she’s the home side regain possession Bright out to Amy Howlett right side her crossfield ball picking out Emma Jenkins on the opposite flank, knocks the ball forwards is stopped by Long Eaton’s captain, Katherine Clarice at the top of the area.

Jade Arber on the ball for Long Eaton United Ladies

The pressing from both sides sees a lack of goalmouth action in the opening minutes. Long Eaton closing Cambridge down in some cases a little to strongly a push in the back on Cambridge striker Lauren Gibson bringing the home side a free kick, a good way out wide right the ball up towards the box standing up in the wind Long Eaton head clear, attack down the other end Pashley running forwards the ball rolled into her uses the momentum to try a shot from distance with the strong wind behind her 35 yards out the effort sails over the Cambridge goal. 

  A free kick awarded to Long Eaton wide left in a good position as Jade Arber is fouled. An attempt at goal sees Cambridge goalkeeper Chloe Crook on loan from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies produce a great save the ball tipped onto the bar, bounces down back into play inside the six yard box right of goal a 2nd shot comes in Nettie Stillinger covering the post rushing out makes the block the rebound hit back in towards goal finds the side netting.

   A clever turn from Gibson as the pass is played into her by Charlotte Crisp the striker’s progress is then halted as she is clipped on the back of the ankle by Pashley the referee awarding the free kick. 35 yards out to the right Bright sends the ball up towards the area another wind affected delivery giving the Long Eaton defence time to get under the ball the visitors counter attack the ball put on for Adams running through the middle 30 yards out pulls the trigger her effort rolling wide across the goal. 

 Excellent hold up play from Jenkins keeping possession on the left side support from Carolyn Sarafain coming forwards to receive the cross a good delivery into the area Long Eaton goalkeeper Lia Kellogg coming confidently through bodies to claim the ball on the penalty spot. Up the other end Long Eaton build Chloe Dixon on for Cara Newton in attack, Arber has space to run into Newton picks her out her cross in sliced is angling towards Crook’s near post the keeper taking the ball high with Adam coming in. 

Emma Jenkins bring the ball on for Cambridge United WFC

The pressing game from Long Eaton along with the final ball not finding it’s target sees Cambridge getting a little frustrated, Baker receives a talking to by the referee committing another foul soon after results in her receiving a yellow card. Midway through the 1st half little goalmouth action. No one getting much time on the ball. A free kick for the visitors wide left quite away out with with the advantage of the wind the ball is put in towards the box Crook going for it gets a fist on the ball taking out one of her own players in the process at the far post the ball spins behind for the 1st corner of the game.

  GOAL! A good delivery from the corner finds Clarice central top of the area the ball at her feet not allowed to turn gets the ball back to the corner taker sent back in Cambridge defend near post the ball back out the the right side Long Eaton keep hold of it the cross whipped back in finds Arber unmarked inside the six yard box puts her head onto the ball knocking at down into the back of the net 0-1.

Jade Arber scores the headed goal to put Long Eaton United Ladies 1-0 up

 Howlett finding some space on the right gets up to the corner her attempted cross charged down by Long Eaton left back Lucie Johnstone brings the home side their 1st corner of the game, Baker to play in a good ball in central Nuala Wayne gets her head on the ball knocking it in towards goal too many bodies in the way the ball is launched clear. Long Eaton ready to break whenever Cambridge commit players forwards Arber left and Laura Sears right on the move to support the top two, Adam and Newton. A corner won on the right side. Delivered near post with Sears coming to meet the ball her header deflecting the ball towards goal is straight in to Crook’s gloves. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Amy Howlett

Long Eaton winning the physical battle are just getting there before Cambridge to most things adding to the home sides frustration. Arber with a great touch as the ball is played into her on the left side, for a moment looks like she might be away, Kayleigh-Anne Burt playing in the centre of Cambridge’s back three across on the cover quickly sliding in with a fantastic tackle to stop the winger. More good link up play between Long Eaton’s Adam and Newton out to Arber left the return ball to Newton looking to get into the box doesn’t quite come off. Keeping the pressure on a throw left side his worked in field to Dixon 25 yards out her shot screws away from target.

Long Eaton United Ladies, Chloe Dixon with Cambridge’s Laura Baker

  5 minutes left to play in the 1st half, Long Eaton working hard to prevent Cambridge any time on the ball win another corner, An inswinging ball, Crook punches well to get it away near post but is fouled doing so. Sarafian bringing the ball on for Cambridge into Jenkins, tacked by Laura Robinson the throw to the home side high up the pitch inside to Wayne allowed a bit of space 25 yards out left of the goal takes on the shot her strike running wide across the goal. 

  Pashley is fouled on the halfway line, with the wind goes for goal the ball over the bar. Cambridge push on late in the half Baker with the run on the ball into Gibson top of the area no room to turn Thornton sending the ball forwards for Long Eaton the break is on Newton with the ball right side two at the back for Cambridge, she takes on the shot from 30 yards out, not seeing Arber in acres of space to the left her strike racing along the ground wide across the Cambridge goal.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Long Eaton United Ladies 

  Long Eaton go into the dressing room at half-time with a narrow 1-0 lead. A scrappy 1st half a proper cup tie, the visitors working hard to press Cambridge and with the wind to their advantage have exploited the conditions well. Chances have been few and far between Crook the busier of the 2 keepers, Cambridge yet to test Kellogg up the other end frustrated the final ball just not finding it’s mark. At 1-0 the tie is very much alive with another 45 minutes to come and the rest if needed.

A change in the weather 2nd half the strong wind that has been present throughout the 1st half no longer present as the clouds break up the sun making an appearance doing nothing to warm things up however. Cambridge attacking down the slope 2nd half to kick off the 2nd half no changes for either side. Newton gets hold of the ball for Long Eaton inside the opponents half driving forwards with the ball at her feet looking to get into the box is tackled well by Baker. Cambridge get the ball forwards on the right Howlett putting the ball in early to the middle Jenkins drifting inside with the 1st time strike 25 yards out puts the ball well over the bar. 

  Cambridge starting the 2nd half better getting more bodies forwards, Bright working hard in the middle to keep possession with the home side. Jenkins a hard player to get off the ball when she has it at her feet winning Cambridge a throw left side the ball played into he middle Sarafian with the shot from a long way out over the bar. Cambridge with a corner right side the ball put into the box, Burt closest tries to muscle her way through the Long Eaton defence they scramble it clear. Long Eaton soaking up the Cambridge pressure counter attack Sears getting free on the right wing inside for Pashley 25 yards out lifts her shot wide of the Cambridge goal.

Long Eaton United Ladies, Laura Sears

The sun setting low over one corner of the ground not helping Cambridge’s cause the home side with more of the ball in the Long Eaton half. Sears goes down after a challenge needing to come off close to the dug out does so but play goes on the sub not ready. Cambridge are attacking the ball swept in from the right Gibson going for it doesn’t get a touch through to Kellogg. Elle Rowson comes on for Long Eaton to replace Sears.

Cambridge make a double substitution, Crisp and Wayne coming off for Lauren Cartwright and Amber Cantwell. Cantwell is fouled out wide left Cambridge awarded the free kick. The shot is taken the ball hit over the crossbar. Jenkins spins in behind turning her marker on the left taking the ball in field an unorthodox piece of defending from Long Eaton’s captain Clarice as she falls over before Jenkins gets to her grounded the attacker runs straight into her the ball deflected away to be cleared. 

   A good run and pass from Cartwright to put Jenkins away on the left wing, Thornton coming across on the cover to put the ball behind for the corner kick. The delivery fired in with pace finds Cartwright 10 yards out the ball headed down towards goal cleared off the line, play is stopped however as the referee spots a foul on the keeper. Into the last 20 minutes of the game. Jenkins moving into a central position the ball rolled into her from the left flank 25 yards out strikes the ball sweetly angling towards the far post an excellent save from Kellogg diving to her right to push the ball away. 

Long Eaton United Ladies goalkeeper Lia Kellogg

   Long Eaton play the ball out from the back Adam into Rowson central into the Cambridge half her threaded pass finding Newton central at the top of the area puts her shot narrowly wide of the post with Burt closing her down. Pashley goes into the book for a foul on Cartwright. 35 yards out Baker over the ball goes for goal her curling strike safely taken by Kellogg. Both sides are showing frustration a difficult game with on one getting any time on the ball. Jenkins is yellow carded as she lets her emotion out. Cambridge make their final change Gabrielle Whitehurst coming on to replace Gibson. The cloud cover starting to return the wind is beginning to pick up once again.

Cambridge United WFC’s Kayleigh-Anne Burt

   Arber left side 25 yards out has a shot for Long Eaton her effort over but not by much. Bright pushed forwards now working with Howlett on the right wing the ball fired back into Bright inside the box six yards out right side of goal hits the 1st time shot another fantastic save from Kellogg down low to her right the ball deflected back into Bright to Howlett on the byline hits it back towards her but the flag is up for offside. Into the final 10 minutes of the game Cambridge pushing hard for an equaliser. Cantwell with a strike from distance another good save from Kellogg.  

Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright

A card is shown to both Bright and Johnstone a free kick to Cambridge wide left Cantwell on the ball. Not much of the 90 left. Cambridge flood the box Cantwell’s delivery on the spot falls for Sarafain her header over the bar. Into stoppage time 4 minutes to be played. Cambridge break from a Long Eaton free kick the ball with Bright onto Howlett right the crossfield pass finding Jenkins left side taking the ball into the corner works free of her marker to send a testing ball in towards the near post Kellogg making another fine save under pressure with Cartwright coming in the corner conceded. The final whistle blows and Long Eaton go through to the 2nd Round Proper thanks to Arber’s 1st half goal.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Long Eaton United Ladies

    A scrappy cup tie, Long Eaton working hard all over the pitch to win the ball a little stronger than Cambridge especially 1st half. Getting the goal and defending well on the whole 2nd half soaking up the pressure Cambridge tried to assert. Some fine saves from Kellogg keeping their narrow lead intact. A frustrating day for Cambridge one of those days where it looks like you’re never going to score their FA Cup run comes to an end this season.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match 

    Games like this it’s hard to pick a single stand out performer a gritty hard working team effort from Long Eaton United Ladies everybody played their part from front to back line to press the ball the centrebacks giving nothing away through the middle, but although she had nothing to do in the 1st half her saves were crucial to keeping that 1-0 lead intact late in the 2nd half as Cambridge pressed on so this afternoons Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Lia Kellogg.

  My thanks as always to both sides for their help today. Best of luck to Long Eaton United Ladies for the next round the draw to take place on Monday. 

Match Report – Stalham Town Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Sunday 29th October

First match report for a fortnight, rearing to go again after illness forced a couple of weekends rest. The action comes from Norfolk this Sunday in Division One with 4th placed Stalham Town Ladies hosting top of the table Sprowston Ladies.

The Norfolk Women’s football league reverting back to 2 divisions this season having previously been 3. With several new sides joining the league this season the revamp sees most of the sides playing in Division Two last season promoted to Division One, Stalham Town Ladies and Sprowston amongst them.

Both have started the season very well. Stalham Town Ladies recovering from a heavy defeat on the opening day of the season have gone unbeaten in the league since winning 2 and drawing their other game to move into 4th position in the table on 7 points, very tight at the top with 3 points separating the top 4. 2nd and 3rd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies the defending champions also meeting today.

Sprowston Ladies top of the table on 10 points undefeated from their opening 4 league games 3 wins and a draw. Sprowston have two sides in the Norfolk leagues this season. FC Sprowston Ladies are currently top of Division Two, but are not a reserve side, both sides standing on their own right. League Plate finalists last season went on to win the People’s FA Cup. A very strong youth set-up at the club too most of this Sprowston Ladies side from their U16s last season.

The two sides met in the Ladies League Cup 3 weeks ago Stalham Town at home then too knocking Sprowston out with a 2-1 win.

The venue for today’s game Rivers Park home for both Stalham Town FC’s mens and women’s sides. A large pitch elevated from the surrounding car parking area. The weather getting alot cooler as the clocks go back, cloud in the sky a threat of rain, a strong and chilly breeze blowing across the pitch which might influence play as the two sides emerged from the changing rooms for kick-off.  

Stalham Town Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Lauren Bunstead, Charlotte Crane, Megan Meale, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Kerry Wright (C), Sophie Burr-Walpole, Vicki Lubbock, Amber Mayhew, Millie Cursons & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Chloe Yarham, Megan Bonham & Abbie Charlton.

Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Jenny Tranholm, Rea Drake, Calista Tink, Beth Cornwall, Nicole Smith, Rebecca Russell, Abby Hutchin (C), Chelsea Pettifer, Thea Hackney & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Georgia Cushion, Paige Barnard & Jade Mundford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   It’s Stalham to kick-off the 1st half wearing an all red kit with Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with black across right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts with black and orange hooped socks. Pressing the ball right from the start Sprowston make ground up the left wing Victoria Leyer looking to link up with Rebecca Russell going forwards, Stalham’s Charlotte Crane defending that side does well to prevent the cross puts the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball from the throw Stalham counter attack the ball long for Millie Cursons to chase down on the right taking the ball into the corner wins a throw in this brings the 1st corner of the game Megan Meale coming forwards to take fired in near post Sprowston defend headed back out to Meale her 2nd ball in deflected behind for the goal kick.

Charlotte Crane bringing the ball forwards for Stalham Town Ladies

   Sprowston attack on the right captain Abby Hutchin bringing the ball on knocks it inside for Thea Hackney positioned at the top of the box she looks to return the ball to Hutchin as she drives into the area her touch taking her away from goal holds the ball up looking up sends the past back towards the advancing Nicole Smith the midfielder takes on the 1st tie strike from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of the near post. Lauren Bunstead with a fantastic tackle at left back for Stalham denies Hutchin from getting a cross into the area following another strong run on the ball up the right flank for Sprowston. 

  GOAL! Sprowston win their 1st corner of the game and from take an early lead in the match on the right a great delivery whipped in with pace into the near post a great flick on sees the ball sent in across goal and Chelsea Pettifer is there to get her forehead on the ball and nod the ball down over the line to make it 0-1.

Chelsea Pettifer scorer of the opening goal for Sprowston Ladies

Stalham look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Vicki Lubbock putting the ball out wide right for Cursons holds off her marker getting down the line before firing in a cross high towards the near post, is headed clear by Sprowston centreback Beth Cornwall, Stalham pressure the ball Amber Mayhew back to Cursons the corner is won, delivered to the top of the area Sprowston get it clear a counter attack is on Hutchin bringing the ball on up the left, Stalham captain Kerry Wright with a vital sliding challenge to win the ball.

Hackney sees the ball into her feet 30 yards out for Sprowston the striker looks to turn and drive towards the area from a central position strong on the ball, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor goes with her putting the the challenge inside the box, the ball deflected inside Hackney looks to get after it shoot, O’Connor’s centreback partner Meale gets there first to clear the ball. Sprowston are enjoying more of the ball inside the Stalham half but for all their pressing are finding it difficult to get around the back 4. Hackney looks to take on both Stalham centrebacks once again the door is closed in front of her as both slide in to tackle.

Thea Hackney attacking for Sprowston Ladies

   Pushed back by their opponents Stalham have started the match slowly unable to get their attackers into the game. From a defensive clearance Sophie Lubbock picks up the ball on halfway looks to get clear and run at the Sprowston box is closed down and tackled by Calista Tink. Vicki Lubbock tries her luck from a long way out her attempt not troubling goalkeeper Megan Lightfoot. Leyer pressing the back high up the pitch, Meale’s back pass to goalkeeper Katie Clarke a little short has Hutchin interested she gives chase, Clarke slides in bravely at the top of her area they collide the ball back deflected away for the corner.

Sophie Lubbock looking to attack for Stalham Town Ladies

 Both sides make a change Chloe Yarham coming on for Stalham replacing Wright. Paige Barnard joining the action for Sprowston. Getting plenty of bodies forwards Sprowston have the ball on the left played inside to Hackney top of the area holds the ball up well looks to turn and strike, Amber Mayhew getting back for Stalham is their to close her down put in the tackle gets the ball clear. Russell into Leyer central the striker 25 yards out jinks left then right before striking the shot takes a deflection off Meale taking it wide for the corner kick. 

  Clarke recovers well from an initial poor kick out of her area not getting the height or distance on the ball it’s Hackney who wins the header 25 yards out knocking the ball back in towards the area Leyer is after it, Clarke to getting to the edge of her area to intercept the bouncing ball gets a strong fist on it to send it up field. Sprowston continue to have the momentum the ball with Pettifer left side put infield Smith on for Hutchin right side she takes on the shot from 20 yards out puts the ball into the side netting. Another switch for Sprowston Georgia Cushion coming on for Hackney.

Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell tackled by Stalham’s Vicki Lubbock

  Hestitation between the Stalham centrebacks inside the box almost gifts Sprowston a 2nd goal as both leave it Hutchin steals in between them right of goal 10 yards out more brave goalkeeping from Clarke diving in at the attackers feet the shot blocked however the deflection sees the ball spin on towards goal, a Stalham defender gets back to hook the ball clear of the goal. Up the other end Cursons and Sophie Lubbock aren’t seeing much of the ball can make little impact in attack, the latter tries the flick on for Cursons 25 yards out, Cornwall reading it gets to the ball first to clear.

GOAL! Into the last 3 minutes of the 1st half and Sprowston double their lead. Attacking down the right plenty getting forwards again Stalham defending their box the cross is cut back inside towards Russell inside the D, uncharacteristically as has been the norm for 41 minutes Stalham don’t advance to close her down as Russell shifts the ball to her right to open up the angle and sends her shot curling wide of the diving Clarke into the back of the net 0-2.

 GOAL! Straight from the restart Stalham lose possession of the ball it is sent forwards Leyer racing clear behind the home defence reaches the ball before Clarke racing out of her area can reach in the striker knocking the ball past the keeper and on into the empty net to make it 0-3 a hammer blow for Stalham just before the half-time whistle. 

 

Sprowston Ladies, Victoria Leyer

Half-time Stalham Town Ladies 0-3 Sprowston Ladies

  An excellent end to a dominant 1st half from Sprowston Ladies scoring inside the opening 7 minutes then 2 goals late in the half putting them in control. Have been able to push bodies forwards keeping Stalham pinned back inside their own half. The back four has worked hard for Stalham preventing crosses and players have gone with runners for the whole just unable to get the ball up to their own attackers to put their mark on the game. Two late goals a hammer blow especially the 3rd alot of work to do if they want to get back into the match 2nd half.

The wind has picked up noticeably and gotten a lot colder too, The sun lower in the sky too will be Stalham’s problem 2nd half. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway. Hutchin is off at the start of the 2nd half for the visitors Barnard now operating on the right in an advanced position with Jade Mundford at right back. Wright is back on in the centre for Stalham replacing Yarham. A quiet start to the 2nd half Burr-Walpole has taken a knock to the back and needs to come off, Yarham returned to the action. 

Stalham Town Ladies, Kerry Wright tackled by Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell

Pettifer is upended looking to bring the ball through the middle a free kick at the top of the centre circle for Sprowston the centreback go forwards the ball delivered into Tink to the left of the D looks to turn is closely marked by O’Connor the ball won. Barnard is sent away on the right Bunstead going to ground tackles well preventing the cross. Pettifer bringing the ball on down the left this time puts an inviting cross into the six yard box, Leyer throws her head at the ball gets a touch Clarke at close range makes a great save to keep the ball out adjusting well as she’d started to move to her right a corner is awarded from the left the ball is cleared up field, Sophie Lubbock with Cursons get the ball up towards right corner of the box Lubbock with a hopefully cross no one fro Stalham in their to challenge for the ball.

   GOAL! Mayhew has made some good forward runs early in the 2nd half for Stalham looking to win the ball higher up the pitch pressing on the left side over halfway wins the ball and brings it on taking it toward the byline holds it up well allowing teammates time to get forwards one of those being Vicki Lubbock getting into the area left of the six yard box, the angle is against her a Mayhew squeezes the pass into her feet the midfielder turns well and sweeps the ball up into the air across the face of goal to drop over the line at the far post 1-3.

Vicki Lubbock pulls it back to 3-1 for Stalham Town Ladies

The goal giving Stalham a little bit of confidence they get the possession of the ball from the restart Wright onto Bunstead picking out Mayhew finding space left side again driving on she fires her cross into the side netting. Sophie Lubbock has the ball takes on the shot from 25 yards out her low drive straight at Lightfoot the keeper gathering cleanly. With Mayhew and Vicki Lubbock getting forwards more Stalham look more of a threat. 

GOAL! Just as the home side are starting to get some momentum in attack however Sprowston get up the other end and restore their 3 goal lead and great strike from Pettifer on the left as she picks up the ball and taking it on lets fly from 25 out her bouncing shot angling wide across the goalkeeper into the far corner for her 2nd of the game to make it 1-4.

Both Hackney and Hutchin return to the pitch for Sprowston. The visitors spring a counter attack from a Stalham corner the ball played long on the right for Hutchin to chase squares her cross along the top of the area Hackney positioned left of the D turns into the shot sees the strike angle away from the far post Clarke coming to gather. Megan Bonham comes for for Stalham. More changes for the home side with Wright and Meale coming off, Burr-Walpole back on along with striker Abbie Charlton.

   A scooped shot from Hackney outside the area as the ball is worked into her from a throw on the left side, Clarke is right behind it the ball dropping safely into her gloves. Bunstead has had a sold game for Stalham at left back shoulder to shoulder with Hutchin as the winger looks to find a way in behind the cross is again denied. 

GOAL! Sprowston further extend their lead this time Hutchin with the ball played into her on the right knocks it on for Leyer running in behind she plays the cross into the Stalham area is knocked outside into the path of Russell left of the D, 20 yards out she sends a thunderbolt racing into the back of the net to make it 1-5.

2 goals in the game for Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Russell

A fantastic save from Clarke keeps Stalham from going further behind the defence pushed up Leyer nips in to steal the ball runs on into the box, Clarke stays big inside her six yard box as the striker closes her down Leyer looks to slot the ball wide of the keeper instead plays it straight at Clarke who makes a great stop with her feet the ball deflected out to the left the goalkeeper rushes after it colliding with Pettifer, is down needs treatment but after a pause in play is okay to continue. 

Sprowston get the ball forwards right side a viscous cross is whipped into the area, Clarke comes to punch is impeded by her own player misses it, drops for Pettifer far post to strike on the volley catches it wrong the ball screws wide away from goal. Into the latter stages of the game Sprowston in control of the ball the cross from the left into Hackney headed on for Hutchin to her right diverts the ball goalwards Clarke down smartly at her near post touches the ball wide for the corner. 

   Into stoppage time Sprowston with one last attack Hutchin on the right lays the ball on for Smith going past her her cross low into the box finds Hackney a turn and shot drags the ball wide of the near post.

Full time Stalham Town Ladies 1-5 Sprowston Ladies

   A 5-1 win for Sprowston Ladies keeping up their unbeaten start to the season and seeing them stay top of Division One a point clear of Thorpe United Ladies who beat North Walsham Angels Ladies 3-1. A great performance from the visitors getting an early goal and dominating the ball for much of the game scoring 5 goals. A below par performance from Stalham defended well on the whole but pushed back by their opponents couldn’t get the ball into their attackers conceding 2 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half doing the damage going in at 1 nil or even 2 nil at the break might have made all the difference getting a goal back early 2nd half Sprowston were quick to respond. Nevertheless Stalham have enjoyed a good start to the season themselves and will loo to bounce back.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Another tough one today to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a good all round team performance from Sprowston this afternoon, difficult conditions to play in scoring some quality goals and creating plenty of chances. Picking one out however I have gone for midfielder Rebecca Russell in the heart of the action not often giving the ball away and setting up attacks ahead of her two well taken goals to her name too.

Good to get back into it after a two week layoff even if it was freezing, better get used to that I suppose. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line ups today and Stalham for the cup of tea. 

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Wednesday 11th October

A midweek trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch a game under the lights from the FAWPL South East Division One with 6th placed Cambridge United WFC hosting 4th placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies. 

Shaping up to be an interesting league at the top with the lead changing hands several times early on. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies amongst those looking to challenge for the title. Cambridge United WFC having had a lot of new faces come into the squad well placed to get amongst the top teams. Both sides in good form come into the game on the back of a home win in the FA Women’s Cup at the weekend.

  A bit of rebuilding going on at Cambridge United WFC as they look to bed in several new players, quality signings started the season with a 0-0 draw at home to newly promoted Leyton Orient WFC who have since gone on win 5 league games in a row to top the table. Cambridge were unbeaten in their 4 opening league game a win and 3 draws their unbeaten run coming to an end away to tonight’s opponents, Alice Hughes scoring a late winner for Milton Keynes. Cambridge bouncing back are 3 games unbeaten in league and cup since. Have further added to their squad bringing in goalkeeper Shayla Burgess on loan from Watford. Striker Kelley Blanchflower ex-Tottenham and West Ham brings experience and skill to the attack. Lauren Cartwright is another new addition to the squad from Watford making her debut at the weekend.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are on a run of wins 5 in a row in league and cup going into tonight’s match beating Cambridge in that run too. Manager James Honeyman has brought in players with FAWSL 2 experience to strengthen the squad that finished runners-up last season defender Mollie Burgess ad midfield Dawn Mallett who had a spell at Cambridge last season. Most recently the club as signed another Cambridge player, attacker Laura Mills moving on scored at the weekend in the FA Women’s Cup for her new club.

As ever the pitch at Mildenhall Town FC looked immaculate sees plenty of action is well maintained sloping from one goalmouth to the other. A hint of rain in the air a breeze keeping the clouds moving quite mild and fingers-crossed in stayed dry.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Nettie Stillinger, Carolyn Sarafian, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Bright (C), Laura Baker, Lauren Cartwright, Amy Howlett, Emma Jenkins, Amber Cantwell & Kelley Blanchflower. Subs – Faith Hewitt & Lauren Gibson.

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies starting XI – Savannah Smith, Leanna Doyle (C), Vicky Holland, Sasha Newsome, Mollie Burgess, Charley Clarke, Dawn Mallett, Charly Wright, Alice Hughes, Amelia Hazard & Laura Mills. Subs – Sammy Gillings, Kerry Newman & Lauren Goodier.

Its Milton Keynes in their all white away lit to get the 1st half underway attacking down the slope. Start at a furious pace pushing players forwards to join Laura Mills in the central attacking role. A through ball has her in behind right side to attack, Shayla Burgess comes racing out to the edge of her area to meet her sliding on the ball is knocked past her, no pace on it however the Cambridge defence recovering can get to the ball Kayleigh-Anne Burt clearing it out to the right wing. Milton Keynes regaining possession Alice Hughes firing a cross into the area the ball bouncing across the six yard box is claimed by Burgess.

Cambridge are penned back in their own half early on Milton Keynes committing numbers forwards, pressing the ball well in the middle of the park, Charley Clarke with a strong challenge gets hold of the ball drives forwards puts the ball into the path of Hughes wide right the cross fired into the box taken cleanly by Burgess. 

Milton Keynes with a free-kick on half-way left side Charly Wright to play the ball in high into the box Cambridge get a head on the ball the clearance falling to Clarke outside the area lays the ball off to Hughes wide right closer she takes on the shot a vicious drive in towards goal, Burgess makes a fantastic save throwing herself up and tipping the ball wide across her goal conceding the 1st corner of the game. A good inswinging delivery into the middle of the six yard box from the left a good fist on the ball from Burgess to get the ball out of the area dropping to a white shirt the shot is taken on the volley the ball flying over the crossbar. 

  Cambridge relieve the early pressure Milton Keynes have put them under the ball played up field Kelley Blanchflower chasing the Milton Keynes defence forces an error as the ball played forwards falls goes straight to Emma Jenkins operating in a left side attacking role tonight, 25 yards out goes to shoot doesn’t get a good connection the ball running wide of goal. 

  Wright, Clarke and Mallett all press forwards from midfield to join the attack for Milton Keynes whenever they have the ball making it difficult for Cambridge to get out of their half  the game played at a furious pace, a few out of control tackles being made decisions not being made by the referee in the middle upsetting the Cambridge bench. Hughes breaking clear of her marker on the right plays an early cross into the area coming to Mills the attacker lets the ball run across her as she holds off her marker knocking it on for Amelia Hazard inside the box with her, leaning back into the shot as the ball comes to her Hazard sends her effort high and wide of the top corner.

Another out of control tackle infuriates the Cambridge bench but such is the pace of the game little time to dwell the ball up the other end it’s the Milton Keynes benches turn to protest at another down the other end. Burt with a headed clearance as Hughes puts another cross from the right into the box following good work from Clarke in the middle. Cambridge play the ball out from the back Lauren Cartwright into Jenkins then Amy Howlett, Blanchflower making a run into the left channel ahead of her receiving the ball takes in on down the line evading a tackle on the byline comes back up the line to the top of the area taking on the shot is gathered on the bounce by Milton Keynes goalkeeper Savannah Smith covering her near post.

GOAL! Almost 20 minutes played in the 1st half and Milton Keynes high tempo start brings them the opening goal winning a free-kick wide on the right inside the Cambridge half players come forwards from the back loading the area is a great ball in Hughes escaping her marker inside the six yard box gets her head on the ball knocking it past Burgess into the back of the net to score 0-1.

Cambridge look to get forwards from the restart Amber Cantwell’s ball played into the middle from the right intercepted by Sasha Newsome at the back for Milton Keynes. Laura Baker with a strong challenge brings the ball on trough the middle sending it forwards is knocked on almost putting Blanchflower in on goal through the middle her 1st touch too heavy Smith with a good starting position is able to gather. The goal scored Milton Keynes are sitting back as a unit the midfield not looking to get up field with such intensity. Howlett strikes the ball on the half volley left side 30 yards out as Jenkins gets forwards on the wing her shot off target.

  Both sides demanding more from the referee Cambridge win a free-kick inside the Milton Keynes half top of the circle, captain Laura Bright to play the ball into the box, headed clear by Mollie Burgess for Milton Keynes, Cambridge regain possession, Hazard working hard to win the ball back on the right as Cantwell looks to link up with Blanchflower. The game continues to be lively Cambridge growing a little frustrated. A throw in on the right Baker with a one two with Nettie Stillinger the full back takes the ball in field driving into the middle fires it forwards into the area with Jenkins making a left side run into the box, closing in on the keeper she forces the error Smith spilling the ball running behind for the corner. 

Possession for Cambridge in and around the Milton Keynes area however there is little room in front of them Milton Keynes keeping a disciplined shape not leaving the slightest pocket for a shooting opportunity. Launch a counter attack the ball with Mallett in the centre she surges forwards Mills ahead of her peels right the pass finding her inside the box shoots 1st time her effort lacking pace is straight and Burgess the Cambridge goalkeeper behind the ball dropping forwards to claim.

Clarke is booked for a robust challenge as she attempts to prevent Cambridge bringing the ball out from the back. Getting forwards on the right side Stillinger cuts inside and fires a diagonal ball into the area Smith just about has the ball in her gloves as the challenge comes in from the left side on her the ball knocked out of her hands the referee awards the free-kick in the keepers favour.

Mallett comes on for Milton Keynes with the ball through the middle sends the pass out wide to Wright moving down the left wing she fires the ball in towards Mills positioned inside the box seeing the ball into her body work it out to Mallett closing in on the top of the area right of the D shot shoots pulling her effort wide across goal. Late into 1st half stoppage time Cambridge work the ball up the left Blanchflower moving into space on the left channel again puts a great ball into the box runners there near and far post it’s Mollie Burgess in between the Cambridge attackers that wins the header 2 yards from goal to clear the threat for Milton Keynes.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-1 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  A 1-0 lead for Milton Keynes who started the game at a furious pace pressing bodies forwards attacking Cambridge keeping them pinned in their own half eventually bringing the goal then with the lead have settled back keeping a solid shape not committing so many forwards ready for the counter attack. Cambridge having the ball but not doing much with it little room in behind the fast pace of the game hasn’t allowed them to settle down but with just a 1 goal lead all to play for 2nd half.

No changes for either side as Cambridge get the 2nd half underway attacking down the slope now the breeze has picked up but still very mild. A relatively quiet opening to the 2nd half compared to the 1st Cambridge looking to build down the left Milton Keynes captain Leanna Doyle breaking up the attack. The visitors get forwards Mills picking up the ball as she comes over the the right turn looks to feed the pass central into Mallett as she makes a good forwards run Stillinger sliding in tackles well to stop the midfielder getting into the box with the ball.

  Cambridge coming onto Milton Keynes more in the 2nd half as the visitors are prepared to sit deep soak up the pressure. Blanchflower receiving the ball from Jenkins on the left side drives towards the box looking to plough her way through the Milton Keynes defence, Newsome tackling wins the ball back. A free-kick awarded to Cambridge inside the D numbers forwards is taken quickly passed to the right the shot comes in Smith right behind it can gather cleanly. 

 GOAL! For all Cambridge’s positive endeavours at the start of the 2nd half they are hit on the counter attack Milton Keynes getting up the other end to score and double their lead. The ball played up into the Cambridge half, bouncing Sarafian comes to get the ball moving into the middle is challenged by Hazard the attacker winning the ball, sends in through to Mills who has made the run into the space vacated by the left back driving forwards into the box right of goal shoots putting the ball across the keeper and into the far corner of the net 0-2.

Not long after going 2-0 up Milton Keynes make a change bringing of Hazard sending on Lauren Goodier to join Mills in attack. Normal service resumed as Milton Keynes sit back invite Cambridge onto them. A good run from Blanchflower getting free on the right receives the ball takes on the shot running along the ground is straight at Smith. Cartwright getting further forwards screws a 25 yard shot wide of target. Howlett with the ball right side crosses the ball into the box Blanchflower letting the ball roll across her body turns and sends a looping ball in towards goal on target but a save catch for Smith. 

Cambridge make a substitution Sarafain coming off as Cambridge go to 3 at the back bring on another attacker striker Lauren Gibson who scored twice in Cambridge’s 4-0 FA Women’s Cup win on Sunday. Milton Keynes bring on Sammy Gillings the defender going into right back as Newsome moves forwards into a midfield role. Further forwards Newsome wins the ball higher up the pitch plays it forwards for Mallett ahead of her Goodier breaking into space wide right Mallett plays the ball onto her Goodier taking the ball on inside the area right of goal Stillinger recovers the ground sliding in to take the ball away from Goodier behind for the corner kick. A inswinging delivery into the middle of the area Cambridge head clear.

  Baker is cautioned after diving in to try and regain the ball after losing possession. Cambridge are able to get forwards but finding it tough to break down the wall of white shirts in front of them. Cantwell to deliver the ball into the area from a free-kick won on the right wing. Newsome back to defend gets up highest to head the ball behind for the corner. the game moving into the last 15 minutes Cambridge’s Blanchflower is down struggling a little after treatment comes off Faith Hewitt joining the action. 

Mallett is tugged back as she threatens to counter attack for Milton Keynes the free-kick in a central position 40 yards out the shot is attempted a dangerous ball looping in towards goal dropping fast but no enough to creep under Burgess’ crossbar just over. Milton Keynes make a 3rd substitution Mallett coming off Kerry Newman coming on with around 8 minutes left. Gibson breaking down the right with the ball sends the cross in square to the near post defended the ball drops for Baker top of the box, rushing to shoot before being closed down slices the ball wide of target. 

It’s all Cambridge in the final minutes pressing forwards Milton Keynes looking composed and comfortable. Cantwell inside to Bright the ball played wide for Howlett on the right down the line sweeps the cross into the area Smith confidently claims it with Gibson rushing in.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 0-2 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  A good result for Milton Keynes winning the 3 points away from home with a superb performance from start to finish. Came with a game plan and sticking to it with a disciplined and solid shape. Started at a breakneck tempo pushing forwards getting the goal they desired then prepared to sit back from then on soak up the pressure not committing too many forwards from then on in. Just went Cambridge looked to be getting on top 2nd half Milton Keynes hit the home side on the counter and presented with the chance Mills took it well. Move onto 16 points stay 4th in the FAWPL South East Division One table as both Ipswich Town Ladies in 3rd and AFC Wimbledon Ladies taking over top spot also won this evening just 2 points separating the top 4 however the battle for top spot come the end of the season will be very interesting. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Tonight’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Sasha Newsome thought she was excellent in the heart of the defence with great position and timing of challenges then pushed into midfield later on helped disrupt Cambridge’s build up play through the middle.

Good to get a game in under the lights after missing a few. Thanks to both clubs for their help tonight. 

Match Report – Wymondham Town Ladies v Newmarket Town Ladies

Sunday 8th October

 Today’s match report features another game from this season’s FA Women’s Cup, 3rd Round Qualifying with Wymondham Town Ladies hosting Newmarket Town Ladies this Sunday afternoon. A personal milestone too with this being the 300th match report I’ve written since beginning the SWF Blog back in 2013, loved every minute of it so far and looking forwards to today’s action.

A place in the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup up for grabs today history will be made for which ever side achieves it. Newmarket Town Ladies having got as far in the competition as they ever have before in a great vein of form. So too are Wymondham Town Ladies and they have enjoyed the FA Women’s Cup in previous seasons too beating FAWPL opposition along the way a chance to reach the 1st Round Proper this time around.

Wymondham Town Ladies are plying their trade in the ERWFL Division One North his season as the regional leagues 2nd tier has split into 2 divisions. Finished 3rd in the one league Division One last season after winning promotion as Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions. Will be aiming to top the table this time around achieve promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division. Manager Alex Guy is assisted by Luke Worley this season and will know plenty about today’s opponents having been Newmarket Town Ladies 1st team coach last season. Joining him from Newmarket are midfielder Kristin Hummel and striker Nadine Basson. Alice Ladbrooke joins the club having been with Acle United Ladies. Brooke Moreno is another new signing along with defender Lauren Kett, who impressed a number of opposition coaches with her performances for Thorpe United Ladies last season.

   Wymondham Town Ladies began their FA Women’s Cup campaign with a 4-0 away win against Norfolk Women’s Division One side Sprowston Ladies. Onto 2nd Round Qualifying were drawn at home to play Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies won through comfortable 7-1 to reach 3rd Round Qualifying drawn at home to face Newmarket Town Ladies who they knocked out of the competition in 1st Round Qualifying last season winning 7-2 away from home.

 Have followed Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side, Newmarket Town Ladies progress in the competition in the previous 2 qualifying rounds making history as they won their 1st ever game in the FA Women’s Cup being Histon Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying 4-2, then making more history in 2nd Round Qualifying at home coming back from 3-0 with 15 minutes left to win the tie 4-3 in extra-time and progress. Having twice beaten sides in the ERWFL Division One North they were drawn away to a 3rd in 3rd Round Qualifying. A tough contest but come into the game unbeaten in league and cup. Have a new signing of their own Millie Bales who starts up front for them this afternoon.

King’s Head Meadow the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie. The bar and clubhouse overlooking to pitch on entry a Sunday Carvery on offer before the game. Newmarket bringing plenty of support to the game a good atmosphere building. A good sized pitch a little bobbly always looks a heavy pitch but is deceivingly well drained. Overcast but quite mild no rain forecast a light breeze. After missing last weekend due to illness I was keen to get some action in.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Lauren Kett, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Brook Cheal-Ferris, Rachel Cossey (C), Kristin Hummel, Mollie O’Callaghan, Kayleigh Holloway, Nadine Basson & Laura Wiseman. Subs – Laura Watson, Alice Collins, Laura Nicholls, Brooke Moreno & Alice Ladbrooke.

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

 It’s Newmarket to get this afternoon’s FA Women’s Cup tie underway kicking off the 1st half wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. Wymondham lined up opposite wearing red shirts and black shorts with red and black hooped socks. Wymondham look to press Newmarket on the ball inside their own half, the visitors break the ball played up the left wing new signing Millie Bales running onto the ball down to the byline cuts the ball back sending it into the crowd gathered at the top of the area, Chloe Slater connects sending a low drive in towards goal, goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan diving to her left pushing the ball around the post to concede the corner. The corner comes in central Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey gets her head on the ball clearing it towards the top of the area dropping to Newmarket’s, Laura Bailey she strikes a shot over the crossbar. 

Wymondham Town Ladies captain, Rachel Cossey

An even start to the game both sides want to use the width the pitch offers. A throw in inside the Newmarket half for Wymondham on the right, Laura Wiseman 25 yards out flicks the ball on into the path of strike partner Nadine Basson her tough takes the ball on into the area right of goal shapes to shoot, Newmarket captain, Beth Woodfield throws out a leg to take the ball away from the striker, Basson retains possession turning puts the ball into Wiseman as she makes a run into the box connecting 1st time sends her shot over. 

Wymondham make ground on the right wing, Kristin Hummel linking with Kayleigh Holloway between them they work a cross along the face of the Newmarket area, an instinctive strike from 16 year old Mollie O’Callaghan younger sister to goalkeeper Ashleigh to turn the ball towards goal from inside the D, racing along the ground the ball swerves away from the far post wide. Basson is looking lively for Wymondham in the early stages peeling away to the right is almost away clear as Hummel plays her in, good recovering from Newmarket left back Jennifer Gray to slide in and win the ball.

On the opposite flank Brooke Cheal-Ferris getting forwards for Wymondham sees her cross deflected up onto the roof of the Newmarket net a corner to the home side taken short up the line for Cheal-Ferris her driven shot from 25 yards is deflected behind for another corner, this time the inswinging ball is headed clear by Yasmin Woodfield. Bales looks to have plenty of pace in attack for Newmarket as she gives chase to a long cleared ball closing with Kett the defender looking to shield the ball as O’Callaghan advances from her area, right corner, Bales steals in between them both taking the ball wide tries to send a shot in towards the empty net beyond sees her attempt run wide at the near post.

   The match is being played at a good tempo the ball rarely still, Mollie O’Callaghan left into Basson top of the area left of the D her snap shot is split by Newmarket goalkeeper Eloise Hope but thankfully for her runs narrowly wide of her near post the corner given. Newmarket defend and get the ball moving forwards quickly winning a throw in left side the ball is played into Laura Bailey in a central position, drives forwards looking to get into the box, 4 Wymondham players converge on her no way through. 

Abbi Griffin looking to hold the ball up for Newmarket Town Ladies

  Newmarket working hard are disrupting Wymondham’s flow their final touch a little wayward giving the visitors defence time to recover. Getting forwards on the left Bales getting in behind squares the ball along the top of the area into Bailey she in turn helps in on for Abbi Griffin coming inside from the right strikes the ball from outside the area, she shot racing wide across the face of goal. 

  GOAL! 19 minutes played and Wymondham take the lead the game end to end in the opening period a chance is taken building from the back Cheal-Ferris left on for Mollie O’Callaghan her pass forwards finds Wiseman breaking into the area left of goal, latching onto the ball Hope comes sliding out to meet her Wiseman takes the ball around the keeper and turns it into the empty net beyond to open the scoring 1-0.

Laura Wiseman opens the scoring for Wymondham Town Ladies

Wymondham regain possession of the ball from the restart full back Leah Newcombe getting her foot wrapped around the ball on the touchline to send it up the right wing for Holloway her cross driven into the box is defended the cleared ball running straight back to her, Holloway tries again this time into Hummel outside the area she strikes the ball 1st time centrally the driven shot runs low and wide across goal. A great ball from Cossey from the right side sees Wiseman clear through the middle, her 1st touch far too heavy she rashly slides in to try and win the ball as goalkeeper Hope gets down low to claim. Hope is okay to continue after receiving treatment.

Wiseman with another opportunity to have a strike on goal making a left channel run into the area is played in from the wing wins the race to the ball with Beth Woodfield squeezing a shot away from the top of the six yard box, Hope makes a great save with her legs the ball deflected into the air just about cleared by Linger. Basson with a spin and shot from 25 yards out straight down Hope’s throat the goalkeeper palms the ball down safely as the game reaches the half hour mark. A good spell for Wymondham Holloway getting free on the right fires a cross along the face of goal Mollie O’Callaghan arriving far post tries to turn it back in towards goal, Both Beth Woodfield and Hope throw themselves at the ball between defender and goalkeeper one of them makes the save the ball behind for a corner. Another corner played up the line the ball into the box slices up off a defenders boot however Hope is well positioned to prevent the own goal.

Wymondham fullback Leah Newcombe tackling Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

Good hold up play by Newcombe on the left touchline rolls the ball back to Betty Fretwell her long ball forwards rights Basson free on the right strikes the ball early the shot narrowly over. Newmarket send players forwards as they are awarded a free-kick inside the Wymondham half, Linger to take sends the ball in towards the top of the area cleared to the right possession is regained by Slater she lifts the ball in towards goal threatening to loop in over the keeper, O’Callaghan throws herself up and getting a glove on the ball diverts it wide of her far post. Linger has another opportunity to play a set-piece inside the Wymondham half 40 yards out as Griffin is upended. This time goes for goal a good delivery looping up and down destined for the top corner if only it was half a yard to the right.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-0 Newmarket Town Ladies

  An enthralling 1st half in this FA Women’s Cup tie, a narrow lead for Wymondham Town Ladies could have been 3 or 4 had they taken their chances however Newmarket have had their chances too and could have taken an early lead a competitive and even contest Wymondham getting more of the ball later on. One goal in it the tie is still wide open.

No changes for either side at half-time as Wymondham get the 2nd 45 minutes underway. The home side on the attack straight away Mollie O’Callaghan putting the ball forwards for Wiseman looking to break into the area, is a great tackle from Beth Woodfield to deny her a shooting opportunity. Mollie O’Callaghan with a chance to go for goal herself as she catches Linger in possession on the left side winning the ball pushing on comes inside finding room outside the area to shoot the ball racing in towards goal, Hope dives full stretch to her left, the ball turns away from goal and evades both the keeper and her goal beyond. 

Newmarket Town Ladies captain, Beth Woodfield

Holloway with a powerful run on the ball right side squares the cross into the area Wiseman near side 10 yards out turns the ball in towards goal, putting it straight into Hope’s gloves. Pressure from Wymondham with the ball right side worked into the middle, Cossey sees 2 shots blocked in quick succession. Play is getting a little frantic rushed passes going astray. A corner for Wymondham as Basson’s clever flick on plays Mollie O’Callaghan to her right into the box, Beth Woodfield tackling gives away the corner. The cross eventually comes in from deep long Fretwell jumping can’t control her header.

  Closing in on the hour mark Newmarket make a double substitution bringing of Smith and Bales send on Cindy Ponder and Lauren Deller. Newmarket get players forwards the ball with Wickens on the left she plays the ball into Bailey making a central run into the area, stretching for the ball she stabs it goalwards, rising the ball is played straight at O’Callaghan the goalkeeper claiming the ball. 

GOAL! Newmarket level the scores, getting players forwards attacking the ball is played into the box from the right the referee spots an infringement and points to the spot awarding the visitors a penalty kick. Up steps Linger to take opts for power and placement sending the rising ball to the left of the diving O’Callaghan 1-1.

Wymondham respond by making a substitution bringing off Basson up front send on Laura Nicholls to join Wiseman in the attack. 

GOAL! Newmarket turn the game around on it head 6 minutes after getting back on level terms go on to take the lead. Ponder is fouled inside the Wymondham half 30 yards out as she looks to bring the ball forwards. The free-kick awarded Newmarket’s set-piece specialist Linger comes forwards to take. A great connection sends the ball up over the wall and dipping late flies in over the keeper to land in the back of the net 1-2.

Jess Linger sees her set-piece go in to give Newmarket Town Ladies the lead

 A great run on the ball from Griffin right side moments later getting past two Wymondham players making it into the box is stopped by the challenge from Kett putting the ball away for the corner. Wymondham make their 2nd change bringing on Alice Ladbrooke for Hummel in the middle of the park. Nicholls hasn’t quite got her bearings since entering the game flagged offside on a couple of occasions as Wymondham threaten to break. Gets a shot away from inside the box right side as Wiseman goes on a run with the ball down the right puts the cross into her path lunging at the ball forces a good save from Hope with her legs at the near post.

GOAL! Wymondham have been on the attack since going behind seeing crosses flashed across the box they capitalise on a piece of lax defending from Newmarket trying to control the ball inside their box the headers between two defenders then back to to keeper sees Nicholls pounce closing all three down steals in between defender and ball to get her head on it and put it past Hope into the back of the net beyond 2-2. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Cindy Ponder tackling Wymondham’s Laura Nicholls

Newmarket make their 3rd and final change bringing off Gray at left back and sending on Ellie Marshall. A vital interception from Yasmin Woodfield at the back with play stretched she cuts out Holloway’s diagonal ball with Wiseman ready to run in on goal behind her. Griffin finding room to cross on the right her ball into the six yard box clawed down by O’Callaghan with Deller ready to pounce beyond her. Cossey struggling comes off for Wymondham, Brooke Moreno their final substitution.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway

The substitute making an immediate impact as she gets clear on the right driving for the corner wraps her foot around the ball sending a cross into the six yard box, falling for Nicholls she opts to go with the outside of her right boot ends up stabbing the ball directly into the keepers welcoming gloves. Up the other end Deller sends a shot wide across goal from 25 yards out as Ponder wins the challenge in the middle. Play continues to be stretched Newmarket starting to tire Wymondham win a corner on the left the ball in headed clear by Marshall, Mollie O’Callaghan gathers it outside the box puts her foot through the shot the strike deflected through to the keeper. Into the final 5 minutes of the match. 

Wymondham finding space up front with Nicholls playing through the middle Wiseman drifting right late on. Mollie O’Callaghan plays the ball on for Nicholls 20 yards out right of goal shoots the ball racing wide of the near post. Attacking down the right Wymondham looking strong as the game moves into stoppage time Moreno with the cross in Linger inside her box gets her head on the ball sending it back out to the near post area, Nicholls is there for Wymondham, Hope realising the danger goes to close her down, Nicholls gets her header over the keeper, dropping Linger on the cover clears the ball off the line. 

Full time Wymondham Town Ladies 2-2 Newmarket Town Ladies

  All square at 2-2 after the 90 minutes are up the tie heads into extra-time. Sometimes you can live to eat your words and this is one of those times predicted it could go either way and certainly in the 299 match reports I’ve written before nothing like what was to follow has happened before, but then Wymondham looked to have more energy left as the game drew to a close. Onto extra-time.

Extra-time

  All the substitutes have been used by both sides as Newmarket get the 1st 15 minute period of extra-time underway. Wymondham have possession get forwards down the right Moreno with an early cross the ball running across the area Holloway trying to close in from the left Hope can see the ball run wide.

Mollie O’Callaghan gives Wymondham Town Ladies the lead in extra-time

GOAL! Wymondham get the early break through in extra-time the pushing players forwards the ball is played into Mollie O’Callaghan left side outside the box she gets a shot away the ball running across the six yard box strikes the far post and is turned into the back of the net 3-2.

GOAL! A hammer blow for Newmarket as they concede again in quick succession the ball regained by Wymondham played through the middle early Nicholls in behind is onside after the ball, Hope comes racing out to close her down, the Wymondham attacker winning the race for the ball stabs the ball past the advancing keeper inside the D and sees it roll into the back of the empty net beyond 4-2.

Newmarket suddenly look very tired, Wymondham on the other hand are re-energised snapping for the ball win it back from their opponents Wiseman with a drive from outside the area her shot held by Hope. A great ball forwards by Ladbrooke finds Nicholls her touch drags the ball out to the right firing a cross back in the ball looking for Holloway the winger is flagged offside.

GOAL! Wymondham extend their lead further as Wiseman is played in behind from another great ball from Ladbrooke. Has the extra pace to take her beyond the Newmarket defence into the box right of goal sends her strike across the keeper and into the back of the net 5-2. 

GOAL! Moments later Wiseman scores again to claim her hat-trick the ball from Ladbrooke sending her through in behind again into the box keeps her composure to take the ball around the advancing keeper and slot it home for 6-2.

GOAL! A devastating spell from Wymondham as they go further ahead breaking from a Newmarket free-kick up to the top of their area the ball carried up the left players getting forwards, Cheal-Ferris fires the cross in going long across the face of goal Moreno is there far post to direct her header back across goal and in 7-2.

It’s all Wymondham, Ladbrooke winning everything in the middle. Holloway sees a shot from inside the box left side saved by Hope. Nicholls over runs the ball as she is sent clear through the middle.

GOAL! Wymondham have time in the 1st period of extra-time for one more goal cruel on a tired Newmarket defence as they give away a penalty the ball send diagonally across the park to Moreno arriving in the box from the right she looks to slide in on the ball, Marshall lunging into the challenge attempts to block her shot succeeds but in doing so her arm makes contact with the ball the referee points to the spot an opportunity for Nicholls to complete her own hat-trick in the game she makes no mistake sending her low shot to the keepers left 8-2. The 1st period of extra-time is over and Wymondham it’s fair to say are in full control.

Wymondham kick off the 2nd period of extra-time, Newmarket having put so much into the game are totally deflated. 

GOAL! It’s another goal to the home side early in the 2nd period of extra-time. Nicholls claims her 4th of the match as she is fed through the middle has the energy to beat Woodfield to the ball as the defender does her best to hold her up Hope comes out to the edge of the area to close the pair down, Nicholls gets the ball past her to make it 9-2.

Griffin with possession of the ball finds the energy to have a run at the Wymondham defence left side too many bodies to beat is stopped by Fretwell. Nicholls moving out to the right has the ball at her feet cuts it back towards the top of the area O’Callaghan racing in sends her 1st time strike over the bar. 

Hope makes the save as Wiseman gets clear running into the box right side looks to put the ball across the keeper, Hope gets down to grab hold of the ball. Ponder is has been struggling for a few minutes going down unwell, dizzy needs to come off Newmarket go down to 10 can’t be helped. 

  Holloway beats Hope on the left side of the box as the keeper comes out to try and stop her, putting the cross in to O’Callaghan she has an open goal to shoot at looks to place the ball, Woodfield recovers the ground to block the shot inside the six yard box.

Extra-time is over and Wymondham scoring a stunning 7 goals in the extra half hour win 9-2 to make history and advance to the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time.

A devastating spell in the 1st period of extra-time to totally dominate the tie after an entertaining 90 minutes before. Clinical in their finishing where they weren’t during regular play. Had plenty of chances but weren’t taken. In the end had the energy levels to maintain their momentum going into the closing stages of the game and into extra-time. Another great comeback from Newmarket 1-0 down at half-time to go on to lead 2-1 in the 2nd half couldn’t hold on to the lead Wymondham came back and finishing the game stronger had the extra energy to overcome a rapidly tiring Newmarket whose own valiant run in this season’s FA Women’s Cup comes to an end. A very harsh scoreline in the finish but they can be inspired by their performances all against higher league opposition can carry that into their league campaign their aim to win the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   This never gets any easier picking the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is another tough one, leaving the ground I still hadn’t picked one and sometimes it’s only when I go through my notes whilst preparing a match report do I come to a decision and in this case one player did stand out, so today’s Player of the Match goes to Wymondham Town Ladies, Laura Wiseman. A hat-trick in the end could well have claimed it in the 1st half of the game alone good runs and positioning to get herself into those scoring chances throughout the match.

300 match reports written and this one is as different as the 1st such an exciting game and so hard to predict that’s why I love it so much… think I’ve got a few more in me. My thanks to both clubs for their help today as always very much appreciated. The draw for the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will be made on Monday.

*UPDATE* The draw for the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup has been made and Wymondham Town Ladies face an away tie against FAWPL South East Division One side Enfield Town Ladies who narrowly over came ERWFL Premier Division side AFC Sudbury Ladies 1-0 in 3rd Round Qualifying. Tie scheduled to be played Sun 12th November with a 1pm kick-off.

Match Report – Durham Women FC v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Sunday 24th September

 Way off the beaten track this Sunday, up in the North East, new beginnings all round a new season of FAWSL football begins and for the 1st time a match report from the FAWSL will feature on Women’s Football East. An exciting looking game to begin with too from FAWSL 2, Durham Women FC one of the favourites to win the league hosting newly promoted Tottenham Hotspur Ladies.

  Merging my two women’s football sites this season, the Supporting Women’s Football Blog no more the match reports remain however just in a new home Women’s Football East, for the past two season’s an FAWSL free zone namely as their was little FAWSL presence in the region. Arsenal Ladies can stake a claim however from FAWSL 1 along with Watford FC Ladies in FAWSL 2. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and now Tottenham Hotspur Ladies winning the FAWPL Southern Division title and then the FAWPL Playoff game earning promotion since the time is right to cover the countries top two leagues as well.

   FAWSL 2 is a highly competitive league and no doubt it will be again this season, new challenges with the FAWSL reverting back to the winter to move in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid. The league itself is a hard on to call this season. With the make up of the league Durham Women FC have their best chance ever of mounting a title challenge. Doncaster Rovers Belles will be up there. Millwall Lionesses have recruited well and had a really strong Spring Series. London Bees under new manager Luke Swindlehurst have made some useful signings, Aston Villa Ladies if they can find consistency might spring a surprise. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC have had the Spring Series to get used to the league with Hope Powell now there manager have made good signings over the summer. As for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies themselves have a strong winning mentality and haven’t had to wait over a year like in previous seasons to make their FAWSL bow. 

Durham Women FC one of the founder members of FAWSL 2 are well established and stable. Progress made on and off the pitch since 2014. Finishing in the top half of the table in 2016 & 2017. Attendances have steadily grown one of the best in engaging with fans on social media haven’t the men’s club behind them but are a leading force for women’s football in the North East likely to challenge rivals AFC Sunderland in that regards if they keep going the way they are. Named FAWSL 2 Club of the Year the side collected the award in front of their home crowd before today’s game. Have added a few additions to their squad, Striker Abigail Cottam along with midfielder Nicola Worthington. Scottish defender, Kathryn Hill also comes to Durham along with Scottish youngster Ellis Dagliesh.

Durham Women FC – FAWSL 2 Club of the Season

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies stormed to the FAWPL Southern Division title last season, going unbeaten for most of the campaign. Went on to beat Blackburn Rovers Ladies the Northern Champions in the FAWPL Play-off game in Charlton back in may. A short but in real terms close season to prepare with the FAWSL reverting back to the winter clubs no longer having to wait over 8 months to begin life in the FAWSL. Karen Hills side is one of the most exciting and attack minded teams I’ve seen play and have no doubt that is how they will approach life in the FAWSL. Have made a few new signings bringing in some FAWSL experience with striker Sarah Wiltshire joining from Yeovil Town Ladies, Carol-Jade Haines comes to the club on a season long loan from Birmingham City Ladies. Ashleigh Neville joins from Coventry United Ladies. Hannah McKenzie from Reading FC Women. Lauren Pickett new to the club too looks a talented addition. Whilst it’s also good to see the likes of captain Jenna Schillaci, goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne and attacker Wendy Martin getting an opportunity to show what they can do at this level. Tottenham are also the FAWPL Club of the Year with Karen Hills awarded Manager of the Year.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies – FAWPL Playoff Champions

New Ferens Park the venue for today’s game have only been here once before it’s a long way from Norfolk. That said a simple run A17 then A1 just off the motorway. 3 and a half hours and the radio managed to stay on the whole way there for a change. A compact ground an all weather playing surface. A seated stand along one side housing the changing rooms a cafe bar on entry. Hot refreshments available I wasn’t hungry but was lured by the smell of cooking bacon so I gave in very nice it was too. Looked an interesting game on paper a chance to see what Durham were made of and whether Tottenham were ready for the next challenge.

Durham Women FC starting XI – Helen Alderson, Anabel Johnson, Jordan Atkinson, Sarah Wilson (C), Caroline Dixon, Beth Hepple, Zoe Ness, Emily Roberts, Kathryn Hill, Rachel Lee & Nicki Gears. Subs – Megan Bothwick, Nicola Worthington, Ellie Curson, Lauren Briggs & Abigail Cottam.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Lucia Leon, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Ashleigh Neville, Coral-Jade Haynes, Sarah Wiltshire, Wendy Martin & Bianca Baptiste. Subs – Chloe Morgan, Hannah McKenzie, Lauren Pickett & Ronnell Humes.

It’s Durham in their all blue kit to get the 1st half kicked off with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Right from the off Tottenham press Durham for the ball win possession down the left Sarah Wiltshire wins her side a corner kick. The inswinging delivery coming central Durham goalkeeper Helen Alderson rises to punch the ball away across goal a 2nd corner, this one fired in near post is attacked by Durham headed clear. 

  The visitors on the front foot Coral-Jade Haines plays a long pass out for Wiltshire breaking left with the ball cuts inside puts the ball into the middle, Sarah Wilson, Durham’s captain clears comes out to Ashleigh Neville on the left, Wiltshire ahead of her takes it on down the line fired the cross in this time headed clear from inside the six yard box by Durham’s Caroline Dixon. Kathryn Hill bringing the but up from the back sends a diagonal pass out to the left wing the early cross in won by Tottenham captain, Jenna Schillaci. A fast paced start Tottenham setting the tempo.

Durham captain Sarah Wilson up against Tottenham’s Sarah Wiltshire

  Bianca Baptiste on the ball right side for Tottenham, is brought down by Dixon the referee having a word with the defender. Schillaci to play the set-piece from wide right outside the box heading towards goal a great save from Alderson to tip the ball away across goal for a corner kick. Sophie McLean has made a couple of runs from midfield to get ahead of the attack to Tottenham slid through into the box right of goal, Alderson closing her down saves near post. 

  Beth Hepple looks to thread a ball into Zoe Ness inside the Tottenham area as the home side attack through the middle the ball is won back and send long, good head work from Baptiste through the middle knocking it on for Wiltshire the striker is clear on goal taking the ball into the box, Alderson comes out stays big as Wiltshire looks to place her shot wide of her, not wide enough the keeper going to ground snatching the ball into her body.

A competitive contest both sides battling for the ball Durham haven’t made the most of it early on getting forward Hill tries her luck from 25 yards out as the ball is rolled into her path, struck well goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne can see it wide of her near post. McLean getting forwards on the left links up with Wiltshire her ball into the box cut out Durham counter attack Jordan Atkinson receives the ball in space on the right delivers an inviting cross towards the far post, Schillaci again has her head on it.

  20 minutes of the 1st half played an intriguing game Tottenham more than matching Durham the home side starting to get a little more possession in the final 3rd. Looking to take players on as she picks up the ball wide left Emily Roberts drives in field making ground is brought down. The free-kick floated into the crowd gathered inside the box is deflected onto Atkinson in space inside the area right of goal puts her foot through the ball her strike flying wide across the Tottenham goal. Durham are starting to find space on the flanks, Nikki Gears riding a challenge taking the ball on to the by-line sees her cross claimed by Wayne. Rachel Lee sends a shot whistling over the bar from outside the box as the clearance from a free-kick delivery falls to her.

  Wiltshire and Baptiste switch flanks for Tottenham, now left Baptiste springs the offside trap plenty of pace surges down the wing cutting the cross in along the top of the six yard box, Wendy Martin coming in near post can’t quite reach it, races on through to Wiltshire she plays the ball back for McLean at the top of the area, leaning back into her shot she lifts the ball up over the crossbar. Lucia Leon is caught in possession bringing the ball out from the back for Tottenham out of position Atkinson moves forwards onto the pass forwards lets fly from outside the area her shot straight at Wayne saved,

  The ball sent up field from the back by Tottenham, Dixon and Martin go up to contest it Martin grounded the ball is knocked on picked up by Baptiste is quick to release it fired across to Wiltshire moving into the area from the right, Alderson comes racing out to met her Wiltshire tries to lob her squeezes the ball past her but no pace, full back Annabel Johnson has gotten round on the cover to clear. Roberts coming on with the ball left sends her cross racing through the six yard box picked up by Atkinson far side she lays it back for Ness who sends er shot over for Durham.

Tottenham’s Wendy Martin contests the ball with Durham’s Beth Hepple

  Martin sends the ball on for Wiltshire as she beats the offside flag left side moving down the line fires a vicious cross along the six yard box looking for Martin making a far post run, Martin puts the ball back out of the area towards Haines coming on she strikes the ball hard, Wilson blocks feeling the full force of the shot stays down, the ball is scrambled behind for a corner. A pause in play Wilson off the pitch for the corner. The ball played long towards the far post drops to Wiltshire she strikes the ball goalwards Alderson across her goal drops forwards to make the save.

GOAL! In minute of normal time to play in the 1st half the stalemate is broken and it’s the home side who take the lead. Attacking down the right Gears on the ball the cross is fired into the Tottenham box is behind Ness who has made a central run adjusts well spinning falling back knocks the ball out of the area towards Hepple. Very little back lift n her strike gets plenty of power behind the shot nevertheless, Wayne is rooted to the spot as the ball races past her to nestle in the back of the net 1-0.

GOAL! The lead doesn’t last long however Tottenham restart and go straight on the offensive the ball with Baptiste on the left wing she has space to run into takes the ball all the way into the box closing in on the six yard box shoots sending the ball across Alderson and into the bottom corner to equalise and in doing so score Tottenham’s 1st ever FAWSL goal 1-1.

Bianca Baptiste scores Tottenham’s 1st ever FAWSL goal

GOAL! Into 1st half injury time and again Durham come back to retake the lead breaking up a Tottenham attack the ball worked rapidly through the middle put into the box comes onto Gears inside the area 10 or so yards out, spins and shoots the ball finding its way inside the near post before the diving Wayne can get there 2-1.

Nikki Gears restores Durham’s lead

Half-time Durham Women FC 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

  3 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half and Durham go into the changing rooms leading 2-1. That scoreline could just as easily been the other way around Tottenham starting the game on the front foot getting forwards had some good opportunities to take the lead. Durham grew into the match and when the chances came their way took them. An entertaining 1st half.

Tottenham to get the 2nd half underway no changes from either side at the break. Wiltshire is fouled as she attacks down the left players come up from the back for the free-kick, a great delivery into the area Neville gets her head on the ball directs it into the back of the net however it won’t count as the flag is raised for offside. Wiltshire on the ball central again lifts the ball into the area for Baptiste running away to the right of goal taking the ball on checks back to evade a tackle then looks to scoop the cross up towards the far post, Alderson can get her gloves around the ball.

Durham’s Kathryn Hill with Tottenham’s Sophie McLean

  Good work from Haines winning the ball out to Green moving into space on the left pushes on before whipping a ball into the area, Martin goes up for it near post can’t get a clean header on it knocked to the ground the Durham defence shields the ball allowing Alderson to gather. End to end both sides leaving room to exploit on their flanks Roberts threads a pass through to Gears on the left, McLean tracking back slide in to concede the corner before the cross can be put in. The resulting corner is headed clear Tottenham break the ball with Baptiste she surges forwards sends the ball into the box early too close to Alderson the keeper takes cleanly.

Tottenham’s Josie Green

Good running from Gears moving clear on the left once again squares the ball into the area as she arrives at the top of the box looking to pick out Roberts she connects with the ball 1st time turning it goalwards but without the power needed to evade Wayne the keeper going down claiming the ball. Durham coming at Tottenham more 2nd half Roberts finding more time on the ball. Finds Gears available on the left side again taking the ball to the byline sends a cross in towards the near post Ness arriving turns it goalwards Wayne has the post covered saves a close range the ball behind for a corner kick.

Durham Women FC’s Emily Roberts

Atkinson on the right gathers the ball from inside the Tottenham drives forwards shooting from 30 yards out the ball sailing over the bar. Hector trips Hepple as the Durham midfielder looking to take the Tottenham defence on through the middle. The set-piece in a dangerous position top of the D. Hepple with the shot sends her strike over the bar.

Durham’s Rachel Lee with Tottenham’s Coral-Jade Haines

Tottenham make a double change 21 minutes into the 2nd half bringing off Haines and Martin send on Ronnell Humes and Lauren Pickett. Durham also make a change bringing Abi Cottam on for Atkinson. A free-kick for Tottenham wide on the right the ball flighted into the top of the area half cleared falls to Wiltshire central 20 yards out jinks left the right before taking a shot the ball easily palmed down by the keeper. Tottenham make their final change bringing off Leon for Hannah McKenzie.

  Durham bring on Lauren Briggs for Gears. Durham press forwards Roberts sees her shot from the top of the area deflected wide for a corner kick on the right, a good ball delivered centrally, Cottam gets her head on the ball puts it wide across goal. Durham looking the stronger as the game moves into the latter stages. McLean puts a cross into the box from the right for Tottenham, Baptiste after it goes down under challenge but the appeals are waved away. A single goal it still Tottenham press forwards, Durham ready to hit on the counter Cottam is clear left side driving towards the box Wayne comes to meet her the attacker knocking the ball beyond the keeper goes after t looks to send the ball in from the six yard line, Tottenham have Schillaci and Hector racing back between them the ball is cleared of the line. 

Durham make their final change, Ness coming off to be replaced by  Nicola Worthington. The game moves into the last 7 minutes. Getting forwards players around the box the ball sits up nicely for McKenzie to strike Alderson concedes the corner making the save. The ball drops over the players gathered near post drops to Humes stabs the ball up over the bar. A throw left for Durham inside the Tottenham half into Worthington chips it on for Hepple 25 yards out not closed down has a go for goal her strike rising swerving away from goal. Tottenham push on late into the game 2 crosses into the Durham box cleared by Wilson.  The final whistle blows the flurry of goals at the end of the 1st half enough to secure and opening day win for Durham.

Full-time Durham Women FC 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

   An entertaining game to watch fast paced. Durham not quite at their best starting with a good result however matching Tottenham’s tempo 2nd half the game might have gone either way. Tottenham will be disappointed to start with loss but nevertheless showed they are more than capable of competing in the FAWSL and that will only make the league more exciting than it already is.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   These decisions don’t get any easier picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is another tough one. Thought Sophie McLean was fantastic for Tottenham. Have chosen Durham’s Emily Roberts strong running with the ball and more often than not her pass found a teammate going forwards, setting up a few chances.

  Good to finally get back into some FAWSL action even if it was a long journey still is, as I churn this last bit off in the Motorway Services… been a long time since I’ve done that too. A good game to watch in front of a great crowd of 617 too plenty of chips sold too. My thanks to Durham Women’s FC for their help today especially Mark Donnelly. Best of luck to both sides for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Sunday 17th September

Back to The Ridgeon’s Stadium in Newmarket for more action from the FA Women’s Cup, 2nd Round Qualifying this Sunday. Watching 2 sides in this round for the 1st time history will continue to be made for one or the other as Newmarket Town Ladies host King’s Lynn Town Ladies.

 Here a fortnight ago for 1st Round Qualifying Newmarket Town Ladies facing a tough test drawn at home to Histon Ladies from ERWFL Division One South a league above. Played well to win 4-2 and progress to the next round of the FA Women’s Cup for the 1st time. Face a team from the same league above them once again another tough test.

King’s Lynn Town Ladies also made history in the FA Women’s Cup entering for the 1st time were drawn away to Leicestershire side Oadby & Wigston Dymano Ladies in 1st Round Qualifying won the game 3-1 to advance to the next round. Are testing themselves at a higher level this season promoted to the ERWFL in Division One North have started well in the league too winning both their opening games. A blend of experience and youth, younger players ready to stake their claim for a place in the side.

  For both sides history has already been made in the FA Women’s Cup this season for one the journey will go on. The tie having to be settled on the day extra-time and penalties if required. Both sides have recruited players from Brandon Town Ladies who sadly folded before the season started situated between the two sides a few former teammates against one another today. Both are with out a few players today Newmarket without goalkeeper Eloise Hope, Dominika Szary normally an outfield player taking on the role between the sticks. King’s Lynn without a few big hitters, captain Shelley Woods and striker Josie Turner unavailable, Becky Russell often influential in midfield or attack sidelined through injury. 

The Ridgeon’s Stadium the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, a state of the art artificial playing surface one of the best around. The bar open a seated stand covered beside. Normally I prefer to stand on the opposite side of the pitch to watch the game but so far today it had been bright then overcast with the odd torrential downpour and with dark clouds looming 5 minutes before kick-off I made a hasty retreat to the stands… just in time too!

A retreat for cover was called for!

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

King’s Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Bryony Russell-Smith, Vikttorija Burkauskaite, Lisa Wilson, Shanice Burch, Albany Hodgson, Charlotte Griffith, Bethan Jones (C), Jade Kelly, Oksana Imanalijeva, Elle Bocking & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Louise Coggles, Michelle Stewart-Sheen, Georgia Reardon & Olivia Baker.

Heavy rain falling at the start of the game

The teams emerge from the changing rooms just as the heavens open a torrential downpour at kick-off. It’s King’s Lynn in their away colours of red shirts with white collar, sleeves and vertical piping, red shorts and socks to get the match underway 1st half. Newmarket in their home colours yellow shirts with blue shoulders, blue shorts and yellow socks. With the rain lashing down play is restricted to the middle 3rd the ball hotly contested in midfield, Newmarket winning the ball send it long to the left Abbey Marshall with the run fires the ball into the box a clean gather for King’s Lynn goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith at her near post. Space for Abbi Griffin to run into on the right as Chloe Slater picks her out taking the ball into the area right side flashes a cross along the six yard box Jordanne Sillitoe arriving far post can’t get anything on the ball.

Jess Linger playing at right back today comes on with the ball support from Slater ahead of her the ball on for Griffin breaking in behind right side once again going on Shanice Burch comes across to put in the tackle deny the cross. As quick as the rain came it abruptly ends. A positive start from Newmarket taking the game to King’s Lynn both sides are looking to use the width King’s Lynn break as Vikttorija Burkauskaite brings it on from right back up the line for Jade Kelly a well timed ball beating the offside trap Kelly burst down the line flashes a cross square along the top of the six yard box Tiffany Forshaw newly joined from after spending most of last season with Lowestoft Town Ladies along with being dual signed with Brandon tries to get their central throws herself forwards in a attempt gets something on the ball but not enough to deflect it into the back of the net wide. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Jess Linger

Cindy Ponder with a well timed run from midfield receives the ball outside the box top left for Newmarket her shot charged down by Burch. The rain ha started to fall again the pitch a little slick, Abbey Marshall with a diagonal ball from the left into the box finds Sillitoe she attempts to drive in towards goal, Burch is on her shoulder, the striker loosing her footing as she shapes to strike the ball. 

Kelly charging forwards with the ball cuts a cross into the box deflected back out towards Burkauskaite arriving top of the area her 1st time strike is deflected wide for a corner on the right. A high ball into the six yard box Dominika Szary jumping through the crowd gets a glove on the ball knocking it wide to the opposite side in the area picked up by King’s Lynn’s Lithuanian International, Oksana Imanalijeva fires the ball back into the players lined up along the top of the area is knocked back towards goal Szary out to claim as a red shirt bears down on her, play is stopped by the offside flag.

 A free-kick for Newmarket wide on the right 30 yards out as Sillitoe is brought down. Linger forwards to take a good delivery into the six yard box dropping far post Albany Hodgson’s clearance goes straight to Griffin positioned central top of the six yard box an instinctive stab of the foot to turn it goalwards plants the ball straight into Russell-Smith’s gloves. Bethan Jones wearing the captain’s armband for King’s Lynn today is doing well in the middle of the park finding pockets of space to receive the ball and looking to pick out her wide players, Kelly and Imanalijeva. 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies captain Bethan Jones

  Russell-Smith comes rushing out of her area to challenge Sillitoe for the ball as the striker races clear in the left side, the deflected ball off her from the keeper runs straight to Griffin central doesn’t try to go for goal with Russell-Smith out of position instead lays it on to Laura Bailey up with her, by then King’s Lynn have the numbers back to nullify the threat. Launch a counter attack the ball through the middle on for Forshaw 20 yards out an early shot puts the ball wide of goal. Forshaw with a shot from further out moments later the ball through the middle she has half a yard on her marker 35 yards out takes on the strike her effort rising over the bar. A fast paced game fairly even so far without either keeper being tested as we close in on the half hour mark. 

The deadlock is very nearly broke by Newmarket, Griffin combining with Bailey in the middle the latter passing the ball forwards to the left picking out Abbey Marshall on the move the ball at her feet pushing into the box doesn’t rush her shot fires the ball across goal past Russell-Smith who turns the see the ball strike the base of her far post still in play King’s Lynn send the ball long. On for Kelly right side head down charges on coming inside looks to strike a shot in towards the near post coming at Szary fast she claims well at head height. King’s Lynn starting to build some momentum going forwards. Elle Bocking receiving the ball from Charlotte Griffith central turns to force her way into the area is stopped by Ellie Marshall.

Newmarket make a substitution Abbey Marshall coming off to be replaced by Brooke Wickens. Hodgson plays a great ball forwards from the back for King’s Lynn picking out Kelly getting free on the right pushing forwards cuts the ball inside towards the near post Szary well positioned to claim with Forshaw coming in right behind her. The same is repeated in the next attack as Jones picks out Kelly this time. A ball through the middle has Wickens bearing down on goal for Newmarket has Sillitoe right on her shoulder not sure if the two exchange touches of the ball but it’s Wickens who has the final strike from outside the box the ball just inches over the crossbar. 

Into the final 5 minutes of the 1st half and Newmarket are reduced to 10 as their goalkeeper is shown a straight red card. A cutting ball through the middle by King’s Lynn the Newmarket back line high up the pitch at times as they press forward as a unit. Forshaw running clear is after it does have it as Linger gets across to try and shield the ball, Szary coming out of her area goes down low to gather the ball into her gloves, a huge error on her part play stopped for the free-kick she his shown a straight red card. Griffin doesn’t hesitate she takes the goalkeepers jersey from Szary as she leaves the pitch heads for the goal as King’s Lynn set up for the free kick, Newmarket send players back to cover both posts. Kelly top of the D lays the ball to her right for Forshaw to strike sends it past Griffin, Ponder covering the far post is there to clear the ball.

Down to 10 Newmarket break up an King’s Lynn attack, Beth Woodfield playing it on through the middle Bailey to Ponder lines up a powerful drive from 30 yards out, skipping off the surface Russell-Smith going down to her right saves well pushing the ball away, Wickens racing in from the right the keeper scrambles across to smother the ball into her body at her feet. 

GOAL! The stale-mate is broken with the very last attack of the half. Imanalijeva with a powerful run on the ball down the left wing getting into the box looks to fire a cross into the middle, Marshall gets a boot onto the ball trying to cut it out deflected out of the area it’s a race between the no 8’s as Newmarket’s Bailey and King’s Lynn’s Jones race forwards after the lose ball favours Jones slightly shots from  20 yards plenty of venom on shot it flies past Griffin into the back of the net 0-1.

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-1 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

  Inclement weather throughout the 1st half has been a tense affair evenly matched for a while Newmarket hitting the post before being reduced to 10 late in the half, King’s Lynn getting their noses in front on the stroke of the half with the rain returning. Have the edge in the 2nd half now they have a goal and a player advantage. Headed for the bar wanted a cheeseburger but the kitchen wasn’t open so had to settle for a bag of crisps. A quick turn around at half-time the sides back out, Little did I know what the 2nd half had in store so much so there wasn’t time to eat a bag of crisps! Here we go!

 King’s Lynn with the kick-off 2nd half, Newmarket react positively with a strong start to the half winning possession of the ball. Having to abandon my crisps and get the notepad out in a hurry, Wickens with the ball left into the box Burkauskaite with her Russell-Smith rushing out towards the pair an infringement is spotted by referee Chris Abbott an indirect free as the ball is knocked back to Russell-Smith she handles the ball. Left of the box top corner Linger comes forwards the ball knocked into her she shoots plants the ball wide of the near post. 

A free-kick on halfway for Newmarket as Jones handles the ball. Linger sends the ball up into the top of the area defended the ball comes out to Bailey shifts it between her feet then lets fly from 25 yards out the ball straight at Russell-Smith. King’s Lynn make their 1st change, Bocking coming off up top for 16 year old Olivia Baker. Newmarket push on the ball knocked across field into Bailey 30 yards out control and turn to fire a diagonal pass back to the left for Wickens racing forwards into the area closing in on goal no way past Hodgson the defender winning the challenge. 

 

King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tiffany Forshaw

GOAL!  King’s Lynn double their lead 12 minutes into the 2nd half breaking forwards the ball fire forwards from the left to the right takes a nick of defender Yasmin Woodfield that sends it on for Kelly to burst in behind on the right space to run into carries the ball on time to assess her options sends the cross along the top of the six yard box picking out Forshaw timing her run to perfection to turn the ball into the goal 0-2.

A blow for Newmarket but their heads aren’t dropping quickly attack straight from the restart winning a throw on the left the ball played into Slater outside the area a good way out shapes to shot has the keeper beaten the ball smashes against the crossbar stays in play Burch beating Sillitoe to the ball clears. The rain has stopped for now but the pitch has trapped a fair bit of moisture, players like sliding about however if they get the chance. 

  Griffin makes a great stop with her foot as King’s Lynn press forwards Forshaw out left with the ball takes it on putting the ball into the six yard box for Kelly strikes the shot goalwards Griffin with the reactive save the ball knocked out to her right goes the more orthodox goalkeeping route throwing herself at the ball to claim before Baker can get a follow up shot in. Ponder and Sillitoe exchange passes through the middle the ball long out to the left for Wickens her shot blacked deflected back into the D straight at Sillitoe her strike charged down. Newmarket make a change Ponder looks to have taken a knock comes off a tactical switch Amanda Stacy named as substitute goalkeeper on the bench coming on she takes the shirt back from Griffin who returns to her more familiar midfield position. 

A great ball forwards from Jones into Kelly on the right wing knocks it on before delivering a cross into the middle of the box Forshaw good control on her chest looks to drag the ball behind her and turn into the shot clever but both King’s Lynn centrebacks have read it and are on top of the striker even as her foot is raised back to strike the ball. 

 GOAL! King’s Lynn go on to extend their lead making it 3-0 putting them in control of the tie the ball worked with pace through the middle finds the feet of Baker outside the box in a bit of space, Stacy comes rushing out to the top of her area to close the angle Baker shows good footwork shifting the ball between her feet three times before slotting her shot past the keeper and on into the goal beyond 0-3.

Olivia Baker pictured with Newmarket’s Brooke Wickens scorer of King’s Lynn Town Ladies 3rd goal

A little under 75 minutes of the game played King’s Lynn make a double switch taking off both Kelly and Wilson. Manager Michelle Stewart-Sheen brings herself on going into left back, also coming on new signing Georgia Reardon another 16 year old like Baker formerly with Brandon Town Ladies. Newmarket make their last substitution too 3-0 down take off a defender Marshall bring on a striker Lauren Deller. Has been a competitive tussle between Sillitoe and Burch all game as Newmarket attack, King’s Lynn sitting off the ball the cross from the right by Griffin comes inside to Sillitoe right of the D flicks the ball over her shoulder and turns towards goal, Burch stays on her shoulder lunges forwards with a tackle to push the ball away from the striker. 

 GOAL! It’s a goal out of nothing for Newmarket but nevertheless and brilliant piece of skill from Griffin a throw on the right into her well over 40 yards out has King’s Lynn players around her but no challenge she sees the keeper off her line goes for goal good pace on her effort it is over Russell-Smith and into the far corner 1-3.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin

 GOAL! Straight away from pulling one goal back Newmarket score another! Get the ball played forwards centrally into Sillitoe outside the box pulls the trigger a the ball scooped up and over the keeper to land in the back off the net the crowd in the stand leap to their feet as Sillitoe pumps her fists in the air 2-3 it’s game on! 10 minutes left to play.

Jordanne Sillitoe with the ball for Newmarket Town Ladies

Newmarket with renewed vigour press forwards Wickens a threat coming in from the right takes a shot on left of the D 20 yards out wraps her foot around the ball a low drive in towards goal Russell-Smith saves well getting down to the ball pushing it behind for a corner. A great delivery flies across the six yard box no one can get on the end of it however. For a comfortable 3-0 position King’s Lynn are defending a 3-2 lead the game has become stretched ed to end. Forshaw on the counter with a run left channel pulls the trigger from outside the box pulls the ball wide across goal. 

 Into the last 5 minutes a great save from Russell-Smith to deny Bailey as the Newmarket midfielder has a strike from inside the box right side as the ball is deflected into her path from a block after Deller has a blast from outside the box left side the ball fired into her the shot, heading for goal Russell-Smith tips the ball over onto the roof of the net. A corner on the right Newmarket load the six yard box a good delivery Russell-Smith climbing through them to punch the ball away towards the top of the area Griffin is there her low drive back in has too many bodies to go through deflected back to her leans back into another shot sends it over the bar.

 GOAL! Newmarket come back from 3-0 down to level the scores in 2nd half stoppage time, attacking down the right players breaking forwards through the middle Sillitoe with Slater and Wickens beyond her. The diagonal ball inside coming straight for Sillitoe outside the area a brilliant piece of skill to flick the ball on runs through to Wickens taking it into her stride into the box left of goal opens up her body to send her shot back across goal wide of the keeper to nestle into the back of the net at the far post 3-3. The crowd goes wild in celebration.

Moment’s left King’s Lynn mount on last attack Imanalijeva getting forwards with the ball on the left fires a cross into the box Forshaw diving throws herself at the ball can’t direct it on target. The 90 minutes are up the game goes into extra-time.

Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 3-3 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

Extra-time

   Just about enough time to get a few crisps into me before the extra period kicks off 15 minutes each way for either side to find a winning goal or the game goes to penalties. All the substitutions have been made two sides used to roll on roll off subs the FA Women’s Cup altogether different. Newmarket get the 1st half off extra-time underway. Bright sunshine now. The home side play the ball long looking for Wickens making a central run the ball claimed by Russell-Smith. 

Both sides go for it Newmarket finding extra energy after their come back. King’s Lynn looking to regain their momentum the ball is fired into Forshaw outside the area 25 yards a good turn to move the ball to her left and turn into a strike curls the ball wide of the top right corner of the goal. A little frustration on the pitch now Newmarket are chasing the ball down all over the pitch, Beth Woodfield winning the header inside the box from a King’s Lynn attack on the right. A few mis-timed challenges on the field now. 

  Imanalijeva with a powerful run left side closing on the box Beth Woodfield on her shoulder, Stacy rushing out of goal all three come together the ball deflected behind for a corner kick. Into the near post a head on the ball sends the ball across the face of goal everyone gambling near post the ball is cleared. A free-kick for Newmarket on half-way Linger playing it up into the box is knocked outside falling to Deller turns and strikes the ball runs wide a touch on the way through a corner kick, Russell-Smith again coming through bodies to punch the ball to safety.

 A vital interception by Linger at the back sticking a boot out to take the ball away from Forshaw 20 yards out the long ball almost certainly putting her through on goal. Linger sending the ball on towards the King’s Lynn area the clearance is sliced the ball running wide right for Deller her sights on goal she slips at the vital moment the chance gone. Forshaw is almost through again only to be denied by a last ditch tackle from Linger. Again Forshaw receives the ball 25 yards out Stacy seeing the threat comes racing out to the edge of her area Forshaw lobs her the ball bounces wide of goal. The 1st half of extra-time is over.

King’s Lynn get the 2nd period of extra-time underway lose possession the ball fed up top to Sillitoe moving left side into the box sends her strike wide across the face of goal. Newmarket are going for it down to 10 you wouldn’t know finding space left and right. Wickens on particular on the left getting down the line puts her cross into the side netting. Bailey into Sillitoe left side drives for the area inside pushed wide by Burch manages to squeeze the pass back in towards Slater inside the D her snap shot put wide of goal.

GOAL! The come back is complete Newmarket having looked strong since getting it back to 3-2 and then 3-3 score to take the lead in the 2nd period of extra-time. Wickens with the goal as she picks up the ball in the middle turning 25 yards out takes on Hodgson head down gaining half a yard lets fly plenty of pace on the ball, Russell-Smith getting down to her right as the ball goes across her gets her gloves to the ball but can’t stop it going into the back of the net beyond 4-3.

Brooke Wickens scorer of the winning goal in extra-time for Newmarket

The tensions are rising Newmarket running on adrenaline, King’s Lynn frustrated. King’s Lynn press forwards have 10 minutes to pull a goal back Imanalijeva sees her cross claimed by Stacy at the near post. Newmarket are reduced to 9 a moment of stupidity from Sillitoe a couple of 50/50 challenges with Burch earlier the pair dive in for the same ball on the halfway line both hurt, play goes on Sillitoe to her feet first Burch says something causing the attacker to turn and spit at her, the linesman is no more than 10 feet away and flags for the offence in front of the mainstand too. Stopping play the referee consults with his linesman and a red card is shown. 

Down to 9 Newmarket have there backs up against the wall as King’s Lynn press the attack numbers forwards the ball cut into the box for Forshaw left of goal six yards out stabs the shot wide at the near post before anyone sees she has been flagged offside. Beth Woodfield strong in her box gets her head to the ball as Reardon fires a cross in from the right. Late on Imanalijeva takes the ball on into the box from the right, Wickens with the challenge, Imanalijeva grounded protests the appeals waved away. A drawn out 2nd period of extra-time plenty of stoppages however King’s Lynn can’t find a goal to force penalties and Newmarket celebrate the win at the final whistle.

4-3 to Newmarket Town Ladies after extra-time a magnificent result to come back from 3-0 with just 10 players in the final 15 minutes of the game. To force extra-time and then score the winning goal. Reduced to 9 in the finish it could have cost them dearly, didn’t they are through to the next round when the clubs form FAWPL Division One enter the competition. Showed great character kept going scoring twice in quick succession to make it 3-2 was the turning point the energy they gained took away their player disadvantage. King’s Lynn comfortable at 3-0 couldn’t see out the game, never regained their dominance in midfield a tough defeat in the end lessons to be learned but no doubt they will and be better for it.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

It’s a really tough one today picking the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Got to pick one however those are the rules I’ve set myself. Bethan Jones was fantastic in the middle especially 1st half. Newmarket battled hard as a team down to 10 then 9 late on everyone doing their part but I have chosen Brooke Wickens was a real threat after coming on on the left and drifting inside to pick up the ball, tracking back to defend to scoring the goal to bring it into extra-time then getting the winning goal.

 If there’s one thing I’ve learnt about the FA Women’s Cup over the years since I’ve been covering it is whatever the result is it puts a little more fire into a player and their team going forwards everyone loves the competition and there is something special about this one. Took me an hour and 15 minutes to eat a bag of crisps the football had me on the edge of my seat a thrilling match. My thanks to both clubs and Chris Abbott for their help with the teams today the draw for 3rd Round Qualifying will be made on Monday I can hardly wait.