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Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Ipswich Town Ladies

This Sunday’s match report from the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from The Abbey Stadium, home of League Two side Cambridge United FC, another opportunity for the players of Cambridge United WFC to play at the ground following their merger last season. In league action in the FAWPL South East Division One looking to get back to winning ways having lost ground on the top 3 sides welcomed visitors Ipswich Town Ladies.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Ipswich Town Ladies

 
 The women’s football action this Sunday takes me to the Cambs Glass Abbey Stadium as Cambridge United WFC get another great opportunity to play at League Two side Cambridge United FC’s home ground taking on Ipswich Town Ladies in the FAWPL South East Division One. 

  Is great to see Cambridge United WFC back at The Abbey Stadium after their link up with the men’s club last season. An increasing number of mainstream Football League, Championship and even Premiership sides have or soon will be hosting their ladies sides which is great for the game and very encouraging. 

  Cambridge United WFC were the pace setters for a long spell in the FAWPL South East Division One before Christmas, runs in both the County Cup, reaching yet another final as holders and the FA Women’s Cup have seen them drop down to 4th in the table through lack of league games and Gillingham FC Ladies making up their games in hand keeping their unbeaten record in the league have taken over at the top. 2 draws and loss from their 3 league matches played in 2017 a win today would get them back on the tail of the top 3. Have seen a few departures of late players moving to other clubs. Welcome back Sarah Wiltshire wife of 1st team manger Steve Edwards returning to the football field a little over a month after giving birth to daughter Alexa-Rose as she looks to return to match sharpness for the start of Yeovil Town Ladies debut season in FAWSL 1.

  Ipswich Town Ladies were targeting a push for the top of the table themselves at the start of the season, with a large squad of players signed up started a new Development side this season playing in the Suffolk Women’s Division, topping the table unbeaten players have stepped up to the 1st team and been named in the County Representative squad. In the FAWPL South East Division One the results haven’t come for the 1st team down in 9th a strong finish to the season could yet propel Ipswich Town into the top half of the table and like Cambridge United have reached the Suffolk County Cup Final were they are also the defending cup holders.

  Know where the entrance is to the carpark behind The Abbey Stadium is now, arrived early the Main Stand open along with the Dion Dublin Suite. A bit of building work going on the last time I visited all complete now looks very nice purchased a cup of tea that I managed to spill down my jumper (I’m sure no-one noticed). A good playing surface at The Abbey Stadium a good size. The main stand behind the dugouts a two tier all-seater running the length of the pitch. A bright day warm the sun behind the stand however putting it in the shade few clouds around but no chance of rain.

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Baker, Evie Gallop, Laura Mills, Ashleigh Deacon, Becky Taylor & Sarah Wiltshire.
  subs – Carolyn Sarafian & Gabrielle Whitehurst.

  Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Leanne Smith, Tamesha Blackwood, Eva Hubbard, Sian Fagg, Aimee Harrison (C), Lindsay Cooper, Laura Guyon, Amy Howlett, Hollie Clement, Sophie Welton & Natasha Thomas.
  subs – Joyce Mlambo, Roxanne Small, Jade Henry, Miagh Downey & Ellie Bird.

  With a few players missing and an important cup semi-final for Cambridge United WFC’s Reserves side also being played today they named just the two players on the bench. It’s Ipswich to kick-off the wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Cambridge lined up opposite wearing Amber shirts and socks with black shorts. Winning possession Cambridge attack down the left Ashleigh Deacon on the move wins a throw taken quickly played inside to Becky Taylor sends a high diagonal ball into the area looking to pick out Evie Gallop making a run central to get into the box, Ipswich goalkeeper Leanne Smith calls for the ball and catches it above her head.

   A quiet opening to the match both sides testing the other with probing balls down the wings the full-backs winning their challenges. Ipswich are awarded a free-kick 30 yards out to the left of the area a chance to bring players forwards load the box have a height advantage over Cambridge, Hollie Clement to play the ball in a good delivery towards the near post, Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook takes the ball well with players all around her.

 Deacon moves forwards played in behind by Gallop support from left back Carrie Bennett the ball is played into the area, Sarah Wiltshire having make the run looking to get on the end of the pass inside the box tackled well by Ipswich captain, Aimee Harrison the ball deflecting out to the right side is picked up by Cambridge’s Laura Mills who shoots from the angle her strike flying over the bar. Clement looks to thread the ball into Thomas as she looks to get in behind, Kayleigh-Anne Burt stepping across challenges winning the ball from the attacker.

Ipswich’s Tamesha Blackwood & Lindsay Cooper with
Cambridge’s Evie Gallop

 GOAL! 10 minutes into the game and Cambridge take the lead, the ball is played out from the back into the Ipswich half, Harrison cushions her headed ball down to the left, falls to Deacon, Cambridge react quickly, both Taylor and Wiltshire break forwards Deacon threading the ball through into Wiltshire’s run left side into the box, Smith comes rushing out as Wiltshire pulls the trigger the shot past the goalkeeper runs across the six yard box striking the far post and in 1-0.

  Ipswich break space in behind on the right for Natasha Thomas squares the ball into the six yard box is cut out by Cambridge captain Laura Bright at the back the clearance going to Amy Howlett right side dives the ball back across the face of the Cambridge goal, Sophie Welton far post can’t connect as the ball runs wide for a goal-kick. Laura Guyon takes the ball to the byline fro Ipswich right side turning it back in towards the middle of goal, right back Emma Jenkins stopping it getting beyond her, Crook gathering the ball into her body.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Natasha Thomas

  Harrison steps in to stop Wiltshire as she pushes forwards with the ball through the middle. Ipswich counter attack on the left the ball played into Thomas, appeals for handball as the cross is put into the area possession outside the referee Chris Abbott spots a foul with no advantage brings play back for the free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out, Clement over the set-piece gets the ball past the Cambridge wall into the area, Bright cuts in out on the penalty spot, Harrison squeezes it back to Sian Fagg top of the area her strike is blocked the ball spinning away to the right picked up by Howlett inside the area sends the cross back into the six yard box Bright intercepting for a 2nd time Cambridge clear their lines.

   Thomas plays the ball out to Howlett getting in behind the Cambridge defence on the right side driving inside towards the box shoots the rising ball palmed down and gathered by Crook at her near post. Mills out on the right for Cambridge gets in behind taking the ball down the wing puts a looping ball in towards the near post area 8 yards out Gallop arriving throws herself at the ball her diving head angling away across the goal and out beyond the far post. 

Cambridge United WFC’s, Becky Taylor

  A good triangle between Taylor, Gallop and Bennett on the left side for Cambridge as the ball is brought on the final ball in towards the top of the area with Wiltshire making the run, Smith reacts quickly coming out to the edge of her box winning the race for the ball. Mills cuts the ball back towards the top of the area Gallop sees her strike charged down deflected behind for a corner. A high ball into the area from the right, Ipswich defender Lindsay Cooper gets up highest to head the ball out of the area.

Ipswich’s Thomas contests the ball with Cambridge’s Laura Baker

  An ambitious effort from Howlett, 40 yards out central position fires a dipping shot in towards goal, Crook falling forwards collects the ball on the bounce inside her six yard box. Fagg wins the ball from Wiltshire in the middle of the park plays the ball onto Guyon ahead of her space for Howlett to run into on the right Guyon picks her out the cross comes in Jenkins tracking back gets her head on the ball to clear. Thomas getting onto the ball is allowed to drive on towards the byline right side cuts the cross ball along the face of goal, Bright just about gets her foot in to kill the ball see it into her keeper with Clement free for a tap in at the far post.

  Bennett brings the ball forwards on the left infield to Wiltshire who sends Deacon through on that side on the move Deacon plays the ball back inside to Wiltshire arriving at the top of the area, falling back as she sees the ball across her body slices her shot sending it wide of the Ipswich goal. 

  GOAL! Ipswich get themselves back on level terms pushing forwards Howlett on the all attacking right plays the ball into the feet of Guyon top of the area, gets the return ball played into her feet as she continues her run into the box and sends her 1st time strike up and over Crook to land in the back of the net beyond with 10 minutes of the 1st half left 1-1.

Ipswich’s Amy Howlett makes it 1-1

 Mills driving forwards with the ball towards the Ipswich box unleashes a shot from 20 yards out getting down Smith gets her gloves behind the stinging shot, the ball striking a defender and running behind for a corner kick. A good delivery from the left side into the six yard box, Bright throws herself at the ball but doesn’t connect. Clement is over the ball for a free-kick to Ipswich inside the Cambridge half plays a high ball in towards goal, Crook on her line is phased by the blue shirt closing in as she takes the ball cleanly above her head.

  Cambridge launch a rapid counter attack Jenkins playing the ball on for Gallop moving into space on the right sends her cross long towards the far post over Smith, Taylor leaps tries to head the ball back across goal bounces on the line before skimming of the face of the far post cleared for a corner on the right. Into 1st half injury time breaking up an Ipswich attack Cambridge go forwards the ball played out to Mills on the move right side fires her cross in to Gallop coming near post looks to hit the shot on the turn straight into Harrison closely marking her.

 Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Ipswich Town Ladies
All square at the break, Cambridge getting into the lead early the match settling into an even contest both sides finding space in behind in a open contest both looking to spread the play Ipswich getting back on level terms all to play for 2nd half.
  A change for Cambridge at the break with defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming off, Carolyn Sarafian taking her place in the centre of defence. Cambridge kick off the 2nd half. Played out to Mills on the right has Jenkins up with her plays the ball long into the area, Smith calls and claims. Fagg fouls Wiltshire in the centre of middle a free-kick awarded 30 yards out Wiltshire tests the keeper playing the ball in towards goal, Smith behind the ball jumps and claims well with players closing her down.
  Mills on the charge into space on the right cuts the ball back to the top of the box, Gallop looks to turn hit a shot goalwards, Taylor too close to get out of the way takes over takes the ball right looking for space to shoot, nothing on plays the ball back to Mills puts her strike wide at the near post. Cambridge have started the 2nd half brightly, Ipswich are a little flat. Deacon shifts the ball between her feet taking it down the line playing the ball inside to Gallop at the top of the area turns fires the shot in towards goal past the keeper races wide across the goal a deflection on the way through the corner is awarded.
Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins with Ipswich’s Hollie Clement
  The initial delivery cleared the ball comes back to Deacon rolls it into Wiltshire top left corner of the box fires in a cross towards the far post Taylor gets her head on the ball knocking it back across towards the opposite post Gallop closely marked by Blackwood can’t get her head on the ball. Jenkins getting forwards plays the ball in behind for Mills down the right puts the ball into the area early, Wiltshire stretching throws her leg at the ball puts the ball straight into the keepers gloves. Mills attacking right sees her cross go long collected by Deacon on the opposite flank rolls it into Wiltshire outside the box, comes inside unleashes a shoot Cooper heads the ball behind for the corner kick.
 GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and Cambridge retake the lead capitalising on their positive start to the 2nd half. The corner is played in towards the six yard box a glancing header from an Ipswich player only succeeds in helping the ball on dropping to the floor several amber shirted players pounce the ball is turned over the line, the scorer Bright makes it 2-1.
 
Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright 
  Thomas takes on a couple of Cambridge players in the middle before threading the ball on for Howlett right side looking to get in on goal is forced wide by Bennett, eventually winning a corner, players come up from the back the delivery is met by Cooper at the near post her header taking the ball in towards goal, Bright headers the ball away on the goal line, going out to the far side play is halted as Jenkins is fouled.
Ipswich Town Ladies, Lindsay Cooper
  Up the other end it’s Cambridge’s turn to bring players forwards into the Ipswich box for a corner a pacy ball in from the right Bright throws herself at it again a glancing header taking it out towards Deacon at the far post a couple of yards out shoots Smith dives gets enough on the ball to take it onto the post rebounds out into the middle of the six yard box Smith produces a fantastic save throwing herself to the floor to keep the ball out before it is launched out of the area.
  A free-kick for Ipswich on the left outside the Cambridge box Clement sends it long Harrison far side keeps the ball alive knocking in on for Thomas beyond her plays it back in field with Howlett racing in shooting from outside the box her attempt flashes wide across the Cambridge goal. Hubbard brings the ball in field from the left into Clement the ball rolled into Thomas inside the D, her strike at goal charged down by Bright.
Sarah Wiltshire scores a
hat-trick at The
Abbey Stadium
  GOAL! 20 minutes left on the clock and Cambridge go on to double their lead awarded a free-kick on the left outside the area as Deacon is fouled. Wiltshire to take the set-piece is a fantastic strike going for goal getting the ball up and over Smith who can do little about it as it drops under the bar and in to see Cambridge lead 3-1.
  Cambridge make a change before the restart Gabrielle Whitehurst coming on for Gallop.
 GOAL! Straight from the restart Cambridge go on to extend their lead as Wiltshire completes her hat-trick the ball won by Taylor on halfway links up with Mills who sends the ball forwards the knock down from the Ipswich defence falling to Deacon with Wiltshire ahead of her gets in front of her marker as the ball is rolled forwards into her feet and strikes a left foot shot from the edge of the box into the top corner 4-1.
 
 
  Ipswich makes a double switch Clement and Welton the players taken off, Jade Henry and Miagh Downey having finished her season with Colchester Town Ladies coming on both going up top. Thomas looks to play Downey in from the right straight away, Sarafain nipping in to take the ball from the attackers feet put the ball out for a throw in. Good link up play between Thomas and Henry moments later outside the area the ball played into Howlett coming into the area from the right shifts the ball inside to wrong foot Bennett gets a shot away, Crook makes a comfortable save. 
  Ipswich bring on Joyce Mlambo for Guyon late on in the game, plays the ball on for Howlett making the run to her right down the wing squares the cross in towards the near post is claimed by Crook the final whistle blows and Cambridge win the 3 points.
Full time Cambridge United WFC 4-1 Ipswich Town Ladies

 The win moving Cambridge onto 32 points for the season 3 points behind 3rd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies and 5 behind 2nd placed Milton Keynes Dons Ladies have games in hand on both sides. A comfortable win in the end all square after the 1st half Cambridge the better side 2nd half, creating chances and scoring 3 goals their 1st league win of 2017 much needed especially in front of The Abbey Stadium crowd.  
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  With 3 well taken goals today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match is Cambridge’s Sarah Wiltshire, a hat-trick at The Abbey Stadium, no new mother has done that before.
 A good day out at The Abbey Stadium good to see Cambridge United WFC beck there again and hope to see more in the future. Managed to leave my wallet behind after the game so very grateful it was found and returned.

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

A look at a new league this weekend on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog covered on Women’s Football East, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South a trip to the GER Sportsground to watch unbeaten league leaders march Town United Ladies play a local derby match against 3rd placed and in form Wisbech Town Ladies.

Match Report – March Town United Ladies v Wisbech Town Ladies

 
   The Supporting Women’s Football Blog has covered plenty of teams a different leagues across the country in the past 3 and half years, today it was time to take a look at a new league not covered before which is surprising with it being so close to home, the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North to watch the league leaders unbeaten March Town United Ladies take on 3rd place and in form Wisbech Town Ladies.

  There are two Championship leagues in Cambridgeshire the North and the South that feed into the Premiership above. The Championship North is not only made up with sides in the northern part of Cambridgeshire but also sides in southern Lincolnshire such as Swineshead Institute Ladies and Boston United Ladies. Is a competitive league with the sides below March Town United Ladies all taking points off each other with just 5 points between 2nd and 7th.

 March Town United Ladies are into their 4th season as a team have played in both the North and the South Leagues did see them play a long time ago getting on for 3 seasons now when they were in the South League away to Cambridge Rangers back in the early days of the SWF Blog when I didn’t cover a match as extensively as I do now. Have grown as a side. Finishing 2nd in the Championship North last season are going strong this season leading the table for most of the season 7 straight wins at in the league before they were held to a 1-1 at home to Wisbech St Mary Ladies last weekend. Lead the Championship table by 4 points. Another local derby match today at home as they host Wisbech Town Ladies.

    Wisbech Town Ladies come into today’s match in great form having won 4 successive games in league and cup. 9 points from that ru taking them all the way up from 7th into 3rd. Have also reached the semi-finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s Junior Invitiation Cup for the 2nd successive season having reached the final last time around. Today they travel with just the bare 11 however having several players unavailable fo various reasons.

  The venue for today’s game the GER Sportsground, home of March Town FC known as The Hares. An old ground that boasts the 2nd oldest wooden stand in the country. Painted blue the main stand is set a little back from the pitch however this is because the ground also hosted cricket cycling and greyhound racing up until 1960. The ground has a new clubhouse that houses a bar and kitchen along with the changing rooms. Tea and coffee also available. The pitch itself is a good size pretty firm the clocks went forwards this weekend everyone lost an hour in bed but at last it looked like spring was here bright and sunny nice to see able to take the coat off for the 1st time this year.

 March Town United Ladies starting XI – Tori Sharpe, Sydney Davies, Claire Newton, Emma Searle, Kayleigh Churchyard, Jade Pointer (C), Georgia Brown, Adele Munday, Shannon Kelly, Emma Frost & Livvi Hodges
 subs – Ella Nutter, Sue Bedwell-Byatt, Laura Coe, Gemma Ramsey & Paige Bedwell-Mann

 Wisbech Town Ladies starting XI – Abbi Venni, Amy Hepting, Chloe Minall, Kaylie Swinden, Emily Stephenson (C), Polly Norman, Rachael Simpson, Shushannah Feast, Annie Rooks, Zoe Tyhurst & Sophie Gutteridge.
 subs – 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A switch of ends before kick-off Wisbech opting to have the sun a their backs 1st half. It’s March to get the game underway wearing yellow shirts with a black band across the top and shoulders, black shorts and socks. Wisbech lined up opposite wearing red shirts and socks with black shorts. The visitors press the ball early keeping March pinned back in their own half striker Sophie Gutteridge, Wisbech’s top scorer so far this season with 20 goals closing down the defence getting her side a throw on the right the ball is crossed along the face of the area, with Gutteridge running onto it left of the D gets a shot away but never in control of the ball it rolls wide of the far post.
Wisbech Town Ladies striker
Sophie Gutteridge has scored 20
goals so far this season
   A good start from Wisbech, won’t let March get out of their half winning a throw in on the left the ball is given to Annie Rooks good hold up play before twisting away from her marker playing the ball in across the face of the area with Shushannah Feast in a central position the bounce of the ball doesn’t favour a left foot volley adjusting to strike with her right foot the shot is pulled wide of the far post.
  Getting the ball played into her feet on the right for March, Adele Munday drives forwards down the line, Wisbech left back, Chloe Minall gets across her tackling to put the ball out for the throw. Another attack for March the ball played long through the middle, Livvi Hodges with 3 goals in her last 3 league games is after it, Wisbech captain Emily Stephenson gets back with her to throw a leg out and put the ball out for another throw. March work the ball into midfielder Georgia Brown left side comes in field looks for the long diagonal ball in towards the box aiming for Hodges far post the ball is just over her head, beyond her Munday latches onto the ball but is halted by the offside flag.
 A good tackle from March’s Emma Searle at the back to thwart Wisbech’s Gutteridge as she threatens to run clear through the middle, the ball out for a throw taken quickly March counter the ball into captain Jade Pointer into midfield plays it on over halfway into space left side with Emma Frost beating the offside trap and running clear heads for the Wisbech box 25 yards out with Stephenson closing the ground lets fly with a shot a swerving ball, goalkeeper Abbie Venni, celebrating her 18th birthday in the week, having initially started to go one way adjusts her body well to stop the ball slipping past her deflects it away for the corner kick. 
An ever present this season, March Town United Ladies, Emma Searle
 Played in from the left side whipped in with vicious pace the corner kick flies over Venni is heading straight into the net is blocked on the line by Wisbech midfielder Rachael Simpson chesting the ball down before clearing, March go up claiming it had crossed the line the appeals are waved away play goes on, I’m on the halfway line got a picture but no goal line technology in this league.
Wisbech Town Ladies, Rachael Simpson stops March’s corner kick going over the line
 Both sides are using the width of the pitch, Hodges with space to run into on the right is closed down by Minall can’t squeeze her cross into the area, up the other end Feast with a surging run on the left with the ball fires a vicious cross into the box looking for Rooks running in, Searle gets their 1st slices her clearance high into the air. A good contest developing in the middle of the pitch plenty of energy from both sides.
  GOAL! The deadlock is broken midway through the 1st half Wisbech are awarded a free kick inside the March half left side a good way from goal close to 40 yards Stephenson goes across to take it as players go forwards line up across the top of the March area. Is a sweet strike by Stephenson as soon as it is flight you can tell it’s a great ball plenty of pace the ball flies towards goal a difficult one for keeper Tori Sharpe with runners closing on her the ball flies over her dipping late under the bar to make it 0-1.
 
Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Emily Stephenson
opens the scoring with a superb free-kick
  The ball is closed down inside the Wisbech half pinging around between feet eventually falls to March’s Shannon Kelly 35 yards out connects with the ball on the half volley sending a looping shot in towards goal Venni has time to set herself catch the ball inside her six yard box. March make a change Ella Nutter recently signed from St Ives Rangers Ladies coming on for Frost up front. Simpson has gotten forwards for Wisbech the ball is played into her at the top of the area back to goal she rolls it into Zoe Tyhurst moving central looks to bring the ball under control shift it inside to shot is closed down by March’s Claire Newton the chance gone.
  Hodges is played through on goal by Nutter as March break with purpose taking the ball right clear of the Wisbech defence Hodges pulls the trigger from 20 yards blasts her shot wide of goal. Nutter getting forwards herself on the left is brought down by Wisbech’s Amy Hepting. Searle over the free-kick looks to play the ball in towards the near post runners breaking from the top of the box Venni is distracted sees the ball safely into her gloves. Venni is quickly out of her box soon after to clear the danger as a favourable deflection at the beck sees Nutter race in behind the Wisbech defence can’t reach the ball before the goalkeeper does.
March Town United Ladies, Jade Pointer with Wisbech’s Rachael Simpson

  March make a 2nd change with Churchyard coming off at left back for Paige Bedwell-Mann a former Wisbech Town player. Brown with a powerful midfield run takes the ball on for March rolling it into the path of Hodges ahead of her, Minall gets on her shoulder prevents the striker getting a shot away as they enter the box marshalling the ball into Venni’s gloves as she comes sliding in to gather. The Wisbech defence giving very little away at the back, Brown finding room to get forwards for March lays the pass out to Nutter drifting into space wide left, Hepting gets back on her to close her down, Nutter keeps possession shifts the ball half a yard room to play the ball int Kelly breaking into a central position, Kaylie Swinden gets across her sees the ball back into her keeper.

Wisbech Town Ladies,
Chloe Minall
  Into the closing minutes of the 1st half March pushing players on the ball from Pointer finds Brown taking it on has Hodges in front of her looking to get into the box on the right side picking her out with the through ball plays it across to Nutter on the penalty spot, shifts the ball between her feet to avoid the sliding challenge before sending the ball in towards goal, lacking pace the low shot is straight at Venni and gathered cleanly.  
  A 1st half injury time corner for March taken on the right the ball played in towards the top of the area, is won by Wisbech the counter attack on the ball launched up field for Gutteridge to go after, Bedwell-Mann is the last defender has to win the ball and does very well under pressure to nullify the danger. March with one last attack in the 1st half the ball rolled into Nutter looks to send Hodges through on goal, again it’s Stephenson who gets across to win the ball before the attacker can get in a one on one situation with the goalkeeper.
  
Half-time March Town United Ladies 0-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

 A 1-0 lead for Wisbech at half-time in a hotly contested derby without the niggle and arguing off the ball. Played at a good tempo few clear cut chances a great delivery from a set-piece the difference between the sides. Wisbech with a good 1st half have done well to limit the threat from march’s attacks their defenders quickly moving in to close down the threat haven’t let very little get in behind. March’s defence too to their credit have prevented Wisbech getting into too many shooting positions albeit defending a deeper line restricting the space in wide areas. An intriguing 1st half a narrow lead all to play for 2nd half.
  Wisbech to get the 2nd half underway, Newton at the back wins the ball for March as it is played forwards sends her clearance back up through the middle, Hodges latching onto the ball 30 yards out has Nutter on the move to her left slides the ball into her run, taking the ball into the area the shot comes in low towards the near post, Venni going to ground makes the save.

Wisbech Town Ladies, Polly Norman with March’s Shannon Kelly

  Norman plays the ball into Feast on the left a clever turn gets the attacker in behind the March defence taking the ball down the wing squares the cross in towards the penalty spot Searle wins the cross getting the ball out of the area for March. Attacking the home side win a corner kick the 1st effort played in from the right is defended at the near post a 2nd corner awarded this one is played deeper in towards the top of the area the knock down out of the box is met by Nutter on the half volley 20 yards out her shot looping up into the air, Venni back on her goal-line sees the ball land on the roof of the net.

 
Annie Rooks on the ball for Wisbech Town Ladies

  Bringing the ball forwards on the left Bedwell-Mann fizzes a ball in towards goal from 25 yards out straight at Venni the ball momentarily pops out of the goalkeepers gloves, she reacts quickly to pull the ball into her body as Hodges coming in throws a leg at the ball. The game continues to be end to end both sides attacking, Tyhurst away into the left channel, sends a long cross into the area, is dealt with by Bedwell-Mann, counter attacking the ball played into Pointer is helped forwards Hodges gives chase can’t reach it before Stephenson can come across and clear the ball for a throw.

 Gutteridge is put through up top for Wisbech gets ahead of Newton as they close in on the box right side of goal, Gutteridge shoots her low strike saved by Sharpe getting down at her near post. Another counter attack from March, Brown through for Hodges in the middle bearing down on the box, Stephenson across to close her down even as Venni comes off her line Hodges squeezes the ball past both her attempt running wide of goal. Feast has the ball 30 yards out from goal opening up her body strikes it goalwards is straight at Sharpe who takes the ball cleanly into her body. 

Shushannah Feast attacking for Wisbech Town Ladies

  A double change for March, Frost returning to the action replacing Hodges, Gemma Ramsey comes on in midfield for Pointer. Kelly pushed further forwards now gets onto the ball shoulder to shoulder with Stephenson into the box closing down on the keeper all 3 go to ground in an attempt to win the ball, Kelly sends the ball on Venni makes the save the save blocking the ball it rolls loose across the six yard box, no other March players in the area the Wisbech defence can clear it.

 Mid-way through the 2nd half Bedwell-Mann switches over to right back as Davies comes off with Churchyard coming back on for March. Winning a free-kick inside the centre circle March send players forwards a good ball played in by Searle drops into the area with Nutter timing her break perfectly on the end of it left of goal shoots early a low drive in towards the near post, Venni is down smartly to make the save.

March Town United Ladies, Ella Nutter

  A chance for Wisbech to send players forwards as they are awarded a free-kick wide on the right inside their opponents half the ball played in by Stephenson his headed on into the area by Simpson, Gutteridge is clear on the end of it slots the ball past the keeper, however the celebrations are cut short by the offside flag. More changes for March, Ramsey and Nutter off, Hodges returning with Sue Bedwell-Byatt another ex-Wisbech player also coming on.

  Rooks bringing the ball on through the middle sends the ball into Gutteridge’s feet inside the D back to goal turns and shoots marked closely the ball is blocked, comes back to Gutteridge on her left gets a 2nd shot away this one off target rolls wide of the post. Pointer is back on the field for March as Wisbech successfully defend a corner kick. Munday brings the ball on through the middle of the park for March looks to send Hodges through in behind, Venni reacts quickly on the move early slides into claim the ball at the top of her area before Hodges can take it round her.
  GOAL! A little over 10 minutes left on the clock and March get themselves back on level terms pushing players on in search of the equaliser it’d Brown breaking from midfield who latches onto a lay off on the left side space before lets fly from the top of the area the ball flies over Venni smashes down off the crossbar into the six yard box, Brown following up reaches it 1st stabbing the ball past the keeper who throws her leg at the ball but doesn’t reach it as it nestles in the back of the net 1-1.

Midfielder Georgia Brown scores the equaliser
for March Town United Ladies

  Laura Coe comes off the bench for March to replace Bedwell-Byatt as the game moves into the last 10 minutes. Munday strong on the ball through the middle sends the pass on for Coe ahead of her the 16 year old playing her 1st season of women’s football heads for the box, Swinden coming across forces her left into Hepting who tackles and wins the ball. March able to rotate their subs are seeing more of the ball in the latter stages of the match, still it’s the Wisbech defence quickest to the final ball as they have been all game. Pointer is down struggling with an injury in the middle for March. Stephenson takes the opportunity to rally her side. Pointer can’t continue and his helped off the pitch.

   On the attack as the game moves into injury time Frost is put through left side shooting from outside the box her effort is held by Venni. March push bodies on in search of a late winner, Munday rolling it through for Hodges top of the area, Venni comes rushing out to close her down and prevent the shot.

 
Full time March Town United Ladies 1-1 Wisbech Town Ladies

 1-1 the final score the points shared, March remain unbeaten in the league with a 2nd half equaliser from Georgia Brown to extend their lead to 5 points at the top. An unstoppable 1st half free-kick from Emily Stephenson seeing Wisbech go in front defended well all game giving very little opportunity for March’s attackers take home a share of the points which is enough to lift them into 2nd spot over Ketton Ladies on goal difference
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  Today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Wisbech Town Ladies captain, Emily Stephenson. With a excellent free-kick to open the scoring, nothing was getting past her at the back today a solid defensive display from the whole defence.
  My thanks to March Town United for their hospitality today and to both sides for their superb team-sheets today very much appreciated a nice touch to have a little info about each player. Best of luck to both for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

The latest match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup. With Acle United Ladies winners of the competition 2 season’s ago hosting Wymondham Town Ladies who were looking to reach the final for the 1st time.

Match Report – Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

 
  County Cup semi-finals day in Norfolk this Sunday and the Supporting Women’s Football Blog was there to watch the game between Acle United Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Both sides doing well in their respective leagues, 2 of the 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside of the County league set-up. Acle United Ladies well placed to mount a challenge for the title in the ERWFL Premier Division going into the latter end of the season. Won the Norfolk Women’s County Cup two season’s ago have beaten Norfolk Women’s Division One sides, North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round 4-3 and King’s Lynn Town Ladies 5-3 in the quarter-finals to reach the semi-finals of this years competition.

  Wymondham Town Ladies play a league below in the ERWFL Division One having been promoted as Norfolk Division One Champions last season. Doing well in their debut season playing at regional level in 3rd place in the table and have reached the semi-finals of the league cup. Awarded an away win in the 2nd Round of the County Cup beat Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 at home to reach the last 4 of the competition. Are looking to make their 1st ever final appearance in the County Cup.

  Seen Acle United Ladies at home several times, however this is just the 2nd time I’ve seen them play in their regular home venue at Bridgewell Lane in Acle due to weather issues. Is part of a multi-sports complex and recreation ground home of Acle United FC too. Tennis courts, bowling club and skateboard park. Headed the the large clubhouse and bar overlooking the main pitch. Had threatened to be wet and windy this afternoon and although the wind would pick up later in the game it was actually bright and sunny as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

  Acle United Ladies starting XI – Joanne Hooper, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodfield, Megan Cletheroe, Leah McGuire, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd & Rebecca Burton (C).
  subs – Jade Copeman, Jody Wells & Bryony Knights

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Bethany Fretwell, Lily Ray, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs – Laura Nicholls, Chelsea Clarke & Laura Hamilton-Rout.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It’s Wymondham wearing red shirts with black trim, red shorts and red and white hooped sock to kick off the semi-final game with Acle lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. The ball is out wide early on Wymondham looking to attack down the left Kayleigh Holloway looking to take the ball on is tackled by Anna Larkins at right back for Acle, the ball played forwards up to captain Rebecca Burton is knocked out wide to Megan Todd on the right pushes inside looking to get into the Wymondham area, Brooke Cheal-Ferris makes the challenge wins the ball.
Kayleigh Holloway looking to attack for Wymondham Town Ladies
  Progress on the right for Wymondham the ball played forwards down the channel Gemma Sanders going after it get’s in behind the Acle defence lunging for the ball sends it in towards the middle of the six yard box with striker Laura Wiseman well placed to meet it, Larkins gets across in front of her to knock the ball wide of goal and behind for the corner kick. A good inswinging ball from the right side Acle goalkeeper, Joanne Hooper punches the ball away from under her crossbar, defender Leah McGuire clears the ball from the area.
 

Acle’s Kate Pasque tackles Wymondham’s Laura Wiseman
   Amber Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham drives forwards is fouled 35 yards from goal, picks herself up to take the free-kick players forwards from the back flights the delivery towards the far post area six yards out Bethany Fretwell goes for the header can’t get anything on the ball as it drifts out of play. A good start from Wymondham, Holloway looks to get away on the right, Kate Pasque tracks her from midfield for Acle stops the early cross, Holloway’s 2nd attempt floors defender Megan Cletheroe the ball catching her in the face, play is stopped so she can receive treatment is alright to continue.
  Amber Rowland plays the ball out to Lauren Bullard on the move wide left for Acle covers alot of ground before cutting inside rolling the ball into Pasque 35 yards out lines up a shot sends her effort over the crossbar. Bringing the ball on up the left for Wymondham, Holloway looks for the give and go with Wiseman coming across to receive the ball, Wiseman attempts to send the return ball into Holloway as she goes beyond the full back, Larkins reading the move intercepts and plays it up the line to Todd a powerful runner on the ball goes in field heading to the box left of the D checks back and shoots the ball straight at Wymondham goalkeeper, Ashleigh O’Callaghan who catches cleanly.
Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins
   Todd finds herself in a central position as Acle break up a Wymondham attack the ball played into her by Rowland she brings it on before firing it into Burton inside the D, back to goal she turns well looking to shoot the Wymondham defence close her down quickly the ball put behind for a corner kick on the left. Is a relatively open game both sides looking to attack with purpose whenever they have the ball Wiseman moving wide right to receive the ball plays it on for Sanders moving ahead of her her ball into the area going long towards the far post Holloway goes after it looks to cut back inside is dispossessed Acle look to counter attack Burton gets the ball on for Todd who takes it on into the right corner before crossing the ball back into Burton at the top of the area the striker dink the ball over the Wymondham defence, goalkeeper O’Callaghan calls for it spills the ball is Pasque bares down on her, but manages to turn and get her body between the Acle player and ball claim at the 2nd attempt. 
  Good hold up play from Alice Collins up front for Wymondham right side as she looks to get Sanders in on the ball the winger clipped and brought down as she looks to take the ball on. Cantwell on the ball wide right lofts the ball in towards the near post Hooper isn’t challenged as she claims the ball well. Chloe Shields goes on a forwards run with the ball for Acle through the middle moving left then right into the box sending the ball on with Todd clear to her left O’Callaghan comes sliding out to get the ball as Todd throws herself forwards trying to get to it 1st knocks the ball on into the keeper and behind for the corner. Is a vicious deliver from the left flashing through the six yard box no one can connect however.
  Shields gives away a free-kick inside the Acle half right of the centre circle Cantwell has Cheal-Ferris free to her left rolls the ball into her takes on the shot from distance, Hooper can see the ball wide of her left post. Few strong challenges coming in but the players are getting on with it. Todd is late on Cantwell as she attacks down the left the free-kick conceded it’s Cantwell to take. The ball is played in towards the far post area six yards out both Wymondham’s Fretwell and Acle’s Pasque go up to head the ball neither getting a firm connection it drops to Wymondham’s captain Rachel Cossey gets her header on target places the ball straight into the gloves of Hooper.
Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland with Wymondham’s Amber Cantwell
  Rowland fighting for the ball in the middle wins it and plays the ball on for Bullard on the left drives forwards Wymondham right back Lily Ray goes with her close marking prevents the cross being made. A good contest all over the pitch the sides closely matched with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play.
 GOAL! Acle break the deadlock in the County Cup semi-final a goal from back to front as Hooper kicks the ball forwards sending it up towards Bullard on the left near half way controls well bringing it on comes inside passing the ball into Todd inside the D central a fantastic 1st touch to take the ball on evade her marker behind her back to goal turns left and shoots, O’Callaghan has no time to react the ball flying past her inside the post Todd scores to give Acle the lead 1-0.
 
Megan Todd on the ball for Acle scores the opening goal of the match
  Ray has taken a knock for Wymondham and needs to come off, Chelsea Clarke comes on a switch of personnel Sanders drops to right back as Holloway switches wings, Clarke over to the left side. Larkins challenges for the ball inside the Wymondham half sends the ball in towards the top of the area with Burton coming in stretches for the ball trying to bring it down under her control, doesn’t and Bullard coming in beyond her may have been better placed, hurt as she falls Burton needs treatment but is okay to play on. 
  Into injury time in the 1st half Acle finish strongly Rowland playing the ball on for Burton through the middle slides it through into the area with Todd breaking in behind, O’Callaghan out of her six yard box quickly slides in to claim the ball. Pasque is fouled as she looks to power her way forwards. Rowland on the set-piece plays in up towards the top of the area Shields attacks the ball gets her header on target a good distance from goal O’Callaghan has time to get across behind the ball and save.
Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-0 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A competitive semi-final in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup but expected it would be, two sides determined to reach the final. Wymondham started the game well and had the bulk of the early attacks. A fierce battle in midfield wide both sides have wanted to use their wide players but on the whole the full-backs have kept them quiet. As Acle grew into the game and Todd started to drift into more central areas the home side started to create a few opportunities of their own. Todd scoring the goal to give Acle the advantage going into the changing rooms at the break. 
 It’s Acle to kick-off the 2nd half the sun has disappeared behind dark clouds the wind starting to pick up a little. A fast tempo to the start of the 2nd half an early free-kick for Wymondham, inside the Acle half the ball played into the area by Cantwell is claimed by Hooper. Up the other end Burton is knocked to the ground as the ball cleared by the Wymondham defence in the area catches her in the face. A pause for treatment Acle’s captain is okay to continue. Rowland presses the ball in the middle, on for Pasque out to Bullard wide left looks to pick out Burton making a move to get into the box she is closed down quickly the ball cleared for a throw. 

  A throw in on the left inside the Wymondham half Goodfield plays the ball into Burton returning it to Goodfield the full back plays the ball up the channel with Bullard looking to get on the end of it inside the box, O’Callaghan is quickly out to the edge of her area to slide in a claim the ball. Wymondham get players forwards win a corner on the left a high ball in towards the top of the area is too high for Collins as she jumps for it over her there a cries for hand ball inside the box off Bullard as the ball comes into her bouncing in front of her she clears it the referee isn’t interested. 

Acle’s, Todd leaps as Wymondham’s Cantwell closes her down to win the ball

  The visitors are doing well at the start of the 2nd half Cantwell going forwards receives the ball from Wiseman holding it up back to goal outside the area, played out wide left for Holloway the winger goes forwards squaring a cross into the area headed behind for a corner. Todd defends the 1st corner for Acle a 2nd corner given away the ball is played up to the top of the area Fretwell gets her head to the ball puts her header over the bar. 

 Cheal-Ferris has the opportunity to bring the ball forwards over the half way line for Wymondham left side is brought down the free-kick given away Cantwell is a long way from goal sends the ball in bouncing into the area, controlled by Clarke gets a shot away angling near post lacks pace Hooper is able to get down and make the save. Wymondham are pushing Acle deeper as the dark clouds return and the wind starts to pick up blowing from one goal to the other the direction the visitors are attacking.

  Building a attack Acle win a free-kick as Burton is caught in the face. a central position 35 yards out it’s Burton who takes the set-piece lifting the ball up into the area Todd is in behind gets her head to the ball too early however the flag is up for offside. Wymondham make their 1st change of the game bringing on Laura Nicholls for Collins with 68 minutes played. A knock for Larkins see her come off Jody Wells coming on going up front with Shields dropping deeper and McGuire moving across to full back.

 GOAL! Wymondham have been threatening to score an equaliser and get it in the 70th minute the attack building down the right with pace as Holloway brings the ball on squares the cross along the face of the area into Clarke far side fires in a diagonal ball towards the near post players from both sides dive in to win the ball it’s substitute Nichols who gets on the end of Clarke’s ball and turns it into the back of the net 1-1.

  Sanders is taken out by McGuire as she looks to drive forwards through the middle the free-kick given away 25 yards out in range for a shot Cantwell left of the D goes for the strike sends the ball wide of goal. Pasque comes forwards with the ball for Acle has Cletheroe to her right getting forwards sends the pass out to her, crosses early a high ball looping towards the near post the swirling wind sees Todd misjudge her attempted header doesn’t make clean contact with the ball falls into the box Wymondham are quickly on it to launch clear. 

  Rowland is eased off the ball by Cossey seeing Acle have a free-kick 25 yards out in a good position. Wells to take goes for goal places her attempt over the crossbar. Wymondham go forwards the ball from Cantwell into Sanders plays the ball on for Wiseman has Nichols free to her right before she can pass the ball Cletheroe throws a leg out to tackle and win the ball.

 GOAL! Wymondham take the lead as Cantwell scores a 35 yard screamer to make it 2-1 as the game closes in on the final 10 minutes receives the lay off from Nichols 25 yards from goal in a central area as the ball is rolled into her Cantwell meets the ball on the run sending her strike looping in towards the top corner dipping to sail under the bar.

  Wymondham bring on Laura Hamilton-Rout as they look to hold onto their lead with 10 minutes of normal time left on the clock. Larkins back on for Acle, Shields gets forwards as Todd attacks on the right plays the ball into her feet outside the area goes for goals sends the ball wide across goal. Wymondham very nearly give a penalty away as Todd attacking down the left comes inside drives for the box, Sanders slides in gets the ball as Todd goes over her, the referee awarded the free-kick right on the edge of the area left of the D. Burton on the free-kick gets it up and in towards the goal, O’Callaghan is right behind it tips the ball over the bar. The corner taken from the left is fired into the area at a good pace, Sanders wins the header as it comes to her inside the six yard box.

  Up the other end a double save from Hooper as Wymondham bring the ball down the left Clarke sending a long ball in towards Nichols coming in far post 3 yards out looks to try and place the ball across Hooper, getting a glove to the ball the goalkeeper pushes it away from goal but straight into the path of the onrushing Wiseman lunges for the ball Hooper is down quickly to make the save.

 
 GOAL! A yellow card for Rowland as she brings down Cantwell in a dangerous area outside the box. Cantwell picks herself up and is ready to take it Hooper is setting her wall. A goal scoring opportunity have the camera pointed and ready. The referee’s whistle appears to blow a split 2nd after Cantwell strikes the ball either way the ball clears the wall and looping up flies in under the bar to give Cantwell her 2nd of the match and see Wymondham into a 3-1 in the 90th minute.

Amber Cantwell sends in her free-kick to make it 3-1 to Wymondham
 GOAL! A moment later and Wymondham extend the lead have a free-kick on half-way haven’t got the camera pointed ready for this one as Fretwell stands over the ball but I should have no-one expects her to shoot the wind is in her favour the ball is sent long with plenty of pace behind it  sails over Hooper and into the back of the net making it 4-1 Fretwell is buried under her joyous team mates as they know they have reached their 1st ever County Cup Final.

Bethany Fretwell mobbed by her team mates after scoring from the halfway line
 

Wymondham Town Ladies
Bethany Fretwell

Frustration gets the better of Rowland a rash challenge she has already been booked and a 2nd yellow from the referee sees her sent off. Plenty of stoppage time to be played Acle continue to press forwards looking to pull a goal back. Have a corner on the right goes long to Burton far post fires the ball back into the middle Todd goes for it but is closed down quickly a 2nd corner conceded on the left this time.

 
 GOAL! Plenty of players in the box for both sides as Wells sending in an excellent delivery comes in towards Pasque central inside the six yard box twists her body the send her header flying past O’Callaghan into the back of the net 4-2. 

  Into the 8th minute of stoppage time Wymondham press forwards for one last attack the lay off running back to Hamilton-Rout 30 yards out meets the ball on the half-volley her shot racing wide of the post. That’s the last action of the game and Wymondham celebrate as they reach the County Cup Final.

Full time Acle United Ladies 2-4 Wymondham Town Ladies

A good 2nd half performance from Wymondham coming back from 1-0 at half-time to win the match 4-2 plenty of late drama 2 free-kicks in the 90th minute sealing the win. Overall 2 evenly matches sides the wind stronger in the 2nd half proving both a problem and an advantage. Wymondham Town Ladies opponents in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final will be the current holders Thorpe United Ladies after they beat Aylsham FC Ladies whom they played in last season’s final 5-0. The final scheduled to be played Friday 28th April with a 7:30pm KO. 
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  Today’s SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Wymondham’s Amber Cantwell a strong contender before she scored 2 goals in the last 15 minutes of the final a, competitive on the ball in the middle and a threat going forwards as well as from set-pieces.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Amber Cantwell
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the sides today always a pleasure to see both play. Congratulation to Wymondham Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog will be there.

Match Report – Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final

 The 1st Cup Final of the season for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup.

Stevenage Ladies v Royston Town Ladies

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final 2016/17 

 A trip to The County Ground, Letchworth this Sunday for my 1st Cup Final of the 2016/17 season. Stevenage Ladies playing Royston Town Ladies in this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final.

  A league between the sides both sides were promoted as league champions last season to test themselves at a higher level. Stevenage Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division title to move up into the FAWPL South East Division One, are 3rd from bottom currently and picked up a good win away from home last weekend as they look to maintain their league status. This is Stevenage Ladies 3rd successive appearance in the Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final winning it for the 1st time 2 season’s ago, finished runners-up against Watford Ladies Development U19s last time around. 
  
  Royston Town Ladies were promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division this season after clinching the ERWFL Division One West title. Like their opponents in today’s final currently sit 3rd bottom in the table but with more points on the board are 9 points clear of the bottom side. Have one of the league top hotshots in their squad, Sammy Tinsley who has scored 31 goals so far this season. Royston Town Ladies have enjoyed their County Cup run scoring 40 goals in 4 rounds to reach the final. Were beaten finalists in the 2013/14 season.

Road to the Final

   Both sides entered the competition in the 1st Round. Stevenage progressing without kicking a ball awarded a home win. Royston were at home in the 1st Round taking on Beds & Herts Division Two side Panshanger Ladies, Sammy Tinsley hitting a double hat-trick as the club progressed with a 12-1 win.
  In the 2nd Round, Stevenage were drawn at home to ERWFL Division One side, Colney Heath Ladies, won the match 5-0 with Daniela Martucci netting a hat-trick. Royston were drawn at home again in the 2nd Round, playing Beds & Herts Division One side St Albans Ladies. Tinsley with just the 1 hat-trick this time, however she was joined by Stephanie Hicks and Georgina Gannaway as Royston scored 12 again winning 12-4 to progress.
  Into the quarter finals an away match versus Evergreen Eagles, playing 5 leagues below them in Beds & Herts Division Three, Stevenage winning 6-0 to reach the semi-finals with captain Donna McGuigan scoring a brace in the game. Scoring 12 goals in the previous 2 ties in the County Cup, Royston’s goal scoring was far from over as they hosted Beds & Herts Division Two side Watton Ladies in the quarter finals won the game 14-0 with Tinsley top scoring in the game with 5 goals.
  The semi-finals were much closer affairs for both sides. Stevenage were at home playing another Watford Ladies youth side their U17s Hornets their young side pushing them all the way for a large chunk of the game before Stevenage sealed a 2-1 win to set up a 3rd successive final appearance, McGuigan scoring both the goals. It could have been an all Stevenage final too as their Reserves side had also reached the semi-finals away to Royston it was another 2-1 winning scoreline with Tinsley scoring both the goals.
  The County Ground, Letchworth headquarters of the Hertfordshire FA the venue for today’s match. A good sized stadium, one main seated stand over looking a good sized pitch covered standing areas each end and on the opposite side the bar and clubhouse behind the main stand. The Pukka Tukka trailer their to provide hot and cold refreshments. Was an overcast day with a few spots of rain in the air slicked the pitch up a little before the match.
 
  Stevenage Ladies starting XI – Katherine Long, Leah Dunnage, Tanya Blacksley, Dominique Godbeer, Jade Beckett, Lisa Milliken, Kristina O’Connell, Donna McGuigan (C), Cara Breckenbridge, Rosy Woodhams & Bolu Fisher.
  subs – Hayley Wood-Thompson, Amy Josland, Daniela Martucci, Stephanie Mann & Kristi Burling
 
  Royston Town Ladies starting XI – Emma D’Costa, Rebekah Fisk, Annie Chambers, Amie Jones, Amy Cooper (C), Grace Leslie, Hayley Graham, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Georgina Gannaway, Sammy Tinsley & Harriet Smith.
  subs – Katie Seymour, Paige Rolfe, Andrea Wright, Lucy Sende & Allyson Santini
(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It’s Royston wearing white shirts and socks with black shorts to get the final underway, Stevenage lined up opposite wearing blue shirts with black sleeves, blue shorts and socks. Royston push forwards right from the start the ball from Hayley Graham into Georgina Gannaway takes the ball on towards the Stevenage area, Leah Dunnage closing her down outside the box tackling to concede the throw. Winning the ball in the middle Paris Coldicott-Stevens plays it on to Sammy Tinsley on the right for Royston, cutting back in field as she carries the ball on looks to thread the ball into striker Harriett Smith making a run ahead of her into the box, defender Dominique Godbeer goes with her keeping Smith from reaching the ball lets it run across her through to her goalkeeper Katherine Long to safely gather into her gloves.
  A competitive opening to the final, Royston pressing the ball early have kept Stevenage penned back in their own half without getting a shot away the midfield congested a few strong challenges. The ball runs favourably out to Cara Breckenbridge out wide left for Stevenage looks up attackers Bolu Fisher and Rosy Woodhams are both on the move sends the ball over the top Fisher closest breaks forwards after the ball, Royston goalkeeper, Emma D’Costa commits early rushing out towards the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball before Fisher can reach it. 
  Stevenage are starting to find a few pockets of space to run into, Kristina O’Connell breaks from midfield moving to the left getting in behind wants the ball played into her, Royston captain Amy Cooper reads the threat getting across to win the ball play it out before O’Connell can get into a one on one position. Stevenage work the ball across the top of the area from the throw on the left the cross flighted in towards the far post sees Lisa Milliken flagged offside. It’s Cooper’s central defensive partner, Amie Jones who breaks up the next Stevenage attack as their opponents work the ball through the middle Jade Beckett playing it on for Fisher moving left has Stevenage’s captain Donna McGuigan ahead of her they try to play the one/two Jones getting in between the to intercept the ball knocking it of McGuigan for the throw.
Stevenage’s Jade Beckett looking to get ahead of Royston Town
midfielder Paris Coldicott-Stevens
  
  A brave and vital save from D’Costa in the Royston goal as Woodhams battling for the ball in the middle gets it out to Breckenbridge left sends the pass over the Royston defence with Fisher on the moves getting in behind a race for the ball, sliding it to save at the top of her area D’Costa makes the save collides with Fisher the ball runs in behind, Fisher scrambling up goes after it as the Royston defence get back to cover the goal, before Fisher can turn the ball home however referee, Rebecca Fearns-Purdue stops play with D’Costa hurt. 15 minutes in a chance for both sides to have a breather. D’Costa is okay to continue after treatment.
  Tanya Blacksley winning the ball at the back for Stevenage pushes forwards through the middle before sending it long for Fisher to go after having peeled away to the left side, Jones covers the ground well to get across on the cover to slide in and clear the threat for Royston. A corner kick for Stevenage on the left, Breckenbridge plays it short the cross delivered into the middle of the Royston area, Cooper gets up highest to head the ball from danger. Attacking down the right side another corner is conceded, Stevenage play the ball in high to the near post Jones up to head the ball out of the area, is fired across the D in towards McGuigan who hits the shot on the spin sending it goalwards, lacking height or pace the ball is gathered by D’Costa on her goal line.
Stevenage’s Tanya Blacksley with Royston’s Harriet Smith
Little room on the ball for Royston in the final 3rd, Grace Leslie gets hold of the ball runs it on for Tinsley out right turns in field drives towards the Stevenage box, Blacksley on her shoulder runs her into Dunnage who wins the tackle gets it out to Breckenbridge moving down the left on for Fisher, reaches D’Costa coming to the edge of her area first. A free-kick for Royston on half-way the ball played up to the edge of the area is initially headed away by Breckenbridge, Royston win the ball back the diagonal ball from right to left picks out Gannaway outside the area left of the D shifts the ball between her feet well to make room for a shot, slips at the vital moment the ball rolling towards goal scooped up by Long.
  Tinsley is stopped in her tracks by Dunnage as the Royston attacker dribbles the ball through the middle. Dunnage plays the ball forwards into space for Fisher to go after, Cooper with her both are beaten to the ball by D’Costa the Royston keeper out early to the edge of her box to slide onto the ball. From a throw in on the right Tinsley gathers the ball into her body turns and looks to find space in front of the Stevenage area for a shot, Blacksley goes with her, Tinsley sends the ball out to Annie Chambers on the left the full back rolling the ball into Gannaway ahead of her inside the box looks to square the ball across the six yard box with Smith making a central run, Dunnage gets across to clear the ball for the throw. 

Georgina Gannaway on the ball for Royston Town Ladies
 GOAL! Just over half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Stevenage taking the lead after Long claims possession of the ball from a Royston attack the goalkeeper kicking the ball from the top of her area up towards the halfway line for once the centre backs fail to deal with the ball as it deflects favourably for Fisher sends the ball forwards getting up a head of steam drives towards the box left into the area plays from both sides racing to catch up with her, D’Costa comes closing down the angle saves well with her legs as Fisher looks to put the ball wide of her, grounded however the ball runs back to Fisher keeps her composure as the Royston defence get back to cover the goal instead rolls it across the penalty spot to Woodhams who sends the ball into the bottom corner of the goal to make it 1-0.

Rosy Woodhams scores the opening goal in this seasons
Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final

  Royston make a change with Andrea Wright coming on up top for Smith. The substitute looks to hold the ball up as she takes it into the right corner is tackled by Blacksley playing the ball into O’Connell helps it on for Fisher to try and get in behind, Jones goes with her sliding in to take the ball away from the striker into Chambers to clear. D’Costa out to the edge of her area right corner saves well again sliding in to deny Fisher the ball rolls back out towards McGuigan, Leslie slides in to take the ball from her before she can line up a shot the ball running across the top of the box Coldicott-Stevens gets it up field. 

Stevenage’s Bolu Fisher with Royston Town’ defender Amie Jones

  Gannaway plays the ball on for Wright down the left channel cutting inside gets into the area her ball put in along the six yard box cut out and cleared by Godbeer. A set-piece for Royston on half-way players go forwards as Cooper plays the ball up towards the top of the area, Leslie heads the ball on into the six yard box, Dunnage is the quickest to react getting it out of the box for Stevenage. Breckenbridge finds herself with time and space in the middle as the ball is played across to her 35 yards out lines up a strike plays the ball straight into the keeper. Fisher has been in the wars 1st half clattered into several times a free-kick is awarded in 1st half injury time after she is brought down wide on the left inside the Royston half, O’Connell on the ball a corner is conceded on the left a good delivery into the box by Breckenbridge, Beckett gets her head on the ball sends her effort over the bar the final action of the 1st half.

  Half-time Stevenage Ladies 1-0 Royston Town Ladies

  A 1-0 lead for Stevenage at half-time having been dominant once they got to grips with Royston’s pressing game, a competitve contest especially in the middle of the park. Stevenage getting in behind the Royston defence on a few occasions eventually bringing the goal whilst up the other end have kept things tight at the back playing deeper preventing their opponents attackers from finding any room to exploit. Leading by just a single goal the Final is far from settled.
   It’s Stevenage to kick-off the 2nd half, Royston look to get hold of the ball right from the start, Stevenage instead get it forwards playing it into Fisher outside the box left of the D back to goal rolls in across the top of the area looking to pick out Woodhams, instead Chambers steps in to intercept the ball clear it up field for Royston.
 GOAL! Stevenage waste no time getting the ball back into Royston’s final 3rd win themselves a corner on the left side, Breckenbridge to take as players come up from the back the delivery in towards the near post Godbeer gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box at the near post nodding the ball into the ground it bounces into the back of the net to see Stevenage double their advantage 4 minutes into the 2nd half 2-0.

Dominique Godbeer is mobbed by her team mates after putting Stevenage 2-0 up

 Royston come very close to pulling a goal back right from the restart the ball passed into Tinsley in a central position 25 yards from goal, good footwork to make room for a shot let’s flying the ball arrowing towards the top corner, Long throws herself to her right as it dips late strikes the post before rebounding out of play. Royston make a double substitution Jones and Gannaway the players coming off, Lucy Sende and Paige Rolfe come on. A throw in for Royston on the left the ball is played across the pitch by Graham out towards Fisk plays it forwards for Wright making a move down the right channels to get in behind the Stevenage defence, Long comes rushing out from her goal to slide in and claim the ball before Wright can take it past her.

Royston Town Ladies, Rebekah Fisk

  Stevenage counter attack from a Royston free-kick the ball played out to Woodhams on half way drives forwards before sending the ball into Fisher’s path moving right looking to get into the Royston box is forced wide by Cooper tracking back with her the angle against her as she tries to get a shot away sends her effort high over the crossbar.

 GOAL! 10 minutes into the 2nd half and Stevenage extend their lead a moment D’Costa will want to forget unfortunately the keeper having had fantastic game up to that moment, Stevenage get the ball forwards into the run of Woodhams left side pushing towards the area knocks the ball on into the area, coming out to slide in and claim the ball D’Costa doesn’t take it cleanly pops out of her gloves, Woodhams knocks it past her and gives chase to send the ball into the empty net beyond to make it 3-0.

 D’Costa is distraught but her teammates are quick to pick her up and get her focused with over half an hour of the final still to play. A comfortable lead for Stevenage now. Royston push players on Fisk supporting Tinsley out wide right receives the ball squares it into Graham in a central position 20 yards from goal, shifts the ball between her feet making room to curl a low shot in towards goal, travelling towards the bottom corner not enough pace on the ball as Long comes across her goal to claim it. Fisk pushes on again with Wright holding the ball up in the left corner for Royston plays it up towards the full-back who has Tinsley making a run across the D in front of the Stevenage box, Fisk picks her out the attacker meeting the ball 1st time sending the ball in towards goal flies wide of the post.

  A change for Stevenage as they bring off Milliken with Amy Josland coming on into the midfield. Involved in the action straight away a ball over the top has Woodhams in behind same run that led to her goal, D’Costa comes rushing out to sliding takes the ball confidently into her body. Pressing on the right wing Stevenage win a corner kick, Breckenbridge plays it up the line with O’Connell available the midfielder sends a sweeping cross in towards the near post just behind Dunnage’s run the defender turns getting her chest on the ball to help it on, bouncing up for Beckett, she tries to get some power on her header but plays it straight into D’Costa in goal.

Changes for both sides, Royston bring on Katie Seymour in place of Fisk, Stephanie Mann comes on for Stevenage replacing Beckett midway through the 2nd half. Woodhams looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Stevenage is tackled by Rolfe 25 yards out the ball deflects wide to Breckenbridge on the right plays a great early ball into the Royston area, bouncing in front of the six yard box, D’Costa claims the ball well above her head not distracted by Josland racing in try and reach the cross. Allyson Santini come on for Royston in place of Coldicott-Stevens. 70 minutes played.

Royston are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position just outside the box top left corner, Wright over the ball as players come forwards from the back. Is a great ball in towards the players lining up at the far post picking out Leslie 12 yards out gets a firm header on the ball turning it towards goal, pace on the ball it is heading for the bottom corner, Long throws herself across her goal to make an excellent save. Stevenage bring off Woodhams sending on Daniela Martucci to join the attack for the final 15 minutes. 

Royston’s Grace Leslie get her header on target

  Rolfe gets back to tackle Martucci as she takes the ball down the right channel conceding the corner kick. Breckenbridge plays the ball into the area going long is just over McGuigan falls to Josland beyond who meets the ball on the volley sends her attempt wide of target. Smith rejoins the action for Royston with Graham coming off. McGuigan is away down the right as the referee plays the advantage after Breckenbridge is clattered driving inside into the box closing in on goal McGuigan blasts the ball into the side netting a corner is signalled however, the delivery swung in towards the near post is headed clear of the area by Santini, falling to O’Connell outside the box snatches at the shot cutting the ball wide across the area.
  
  Breckenbridge is the next player substituted by Stevenage, Kristi Burling coming on with a little over 10 minutes left to play. Godbeer comes across to slide in and take the ball inside the area from Smith as she is played in behind on the left side by Chambers. Fisher comes off in the latter stages of the game with Stevenage sending on Hayley Wood-Thompson. Josland tussling with Leslie for the ball in the middle of the park gets it forwards for McGuigan, advances towards the top of the area before blasting a shot wide of the far post. Milliken returns to the action in place of O’Connell for Stevenage.

 

Royston Town Ladies,
Harriett Smith

Late pressure from Royston as they search for a goal, Smith is played in down the right carries the ball on into the box Long comes to close the angle, Godbeer too, between them squeeze the Royston attacker off the ball. A great reverse ball down the line from Santini gets Chambers in behind on the left for Royston sends a long ball in across the six yard box towards the far post Wood-Thompson defends well against Wright heading the ball out of the area falls to Leslie 20 yards out running onto the ball hits it back into the area her strike blocked. 

 Into the final couple of minutes of normal time Royston get the ball forwards into Smith right of goal shifts the ball before pulling the trigger, Long gets down sharply to make the save the ball deflects across her six yard box, no one following in as Stevenage launch it up field. Another late chance for Smith as Tinsley rolls the ball into her path outside the area hits the ball hard towards goal Long throws herself to her left, the ball flies narrowly wide of the post.

 GOAL! In injury time Stevenage hit Royston on the break to score a 4th goal the ball played out to Milliken is space on the right plays the ball in towards the top of the area just behind Wood-Thompson has Josland beyond her McGuigan is running on towards the top of the box Josland rolling the ball into her opening up her body McGuigan meets the ball perfectly sending it angling into the top corner 4-0. Virtually the last action of the game the final whistle blows and Stevenage celebrate winning the County Cup.

Full time Stevenage Ladies 4-0 Royston Town Ladies

  A 4-0 win for Stevenage 2 early goals 2nd half putting them in control of the final, the better side on the day their defence giving Royston very little opportunity in behind whilst up the other end had players always ready to break forwards. Royston battled hard a competitive contest especially in the middle of the park but eventually ran out of energy. A few late chances to pull a goal back hit on the counter on concede a 4th goal. A good game watched by a decent sized crowd.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

     With two goals in the final the SWF Blog – Player of the Match is Rosy Woodhams. Made life difficult for the Royston defence with so forceful runs on the ball. Good hold up play to bring others into the attack aswell as making intelligent runs to make space for others to exploit.

Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Winners, Stevenage Ladies

  Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies on winning this season’s Hertfordshire Women’s County Cup Final.

  My thanks to the Hertfordshire FA staff today, especially Callum Riley for his help with the team line-ups. Enjoyed my 1st Cup Final of the season plenty more to look forwards too.

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

A new league covered on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday with a top of the table clash from the Essex Women’s Premier Division with runaway leaders Harlow Town Ladies looking for a 15 straight win in the league at home to 2nd placed Lawford Ladies. 

Match Report – Harlow Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

 
   A first for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog today taking in a new league for the 1st time and a long overdue trip to watch a game in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. The venue The Harlow Arena to watch runaway league leaders take on 2nd placed Lawford Ladies.

 Harlow Town Ladies haven’t dropped a single league point since they joined the Essex Women’s County league last season having previously been the Bury Rangers Girls U17s, winning the Division One title last season going on to complete a Quadruple, with wins in the Essex Trophy, Tiptree & District Charity Cup and Essex Women’s League Cup finals. Are going as equally strong in the Premier Division following promotion with a 100% winning record to date 14 games won are 14 points clear of 2nd placed Lawford Ladies. In addition to the 1st team Harlow Town Ladies started a new Reserves and an U18s side this season having a good number signed to the club to play for all 3 sides is a little stretched at the moment with a dozen out injured.

  Lawford Ladies near Manningtree in North Essex are into their 5th season, started this season with a new manager Marc Lawson coming in. Had a very strong start to the season winning their opening 8 games eventually over took by Harlow as postponements as well a cup games halting their momentum in the league. Have played Harlow once already this season knocking the holders out of the league cup with a 3-0 home win. Have games in hand as they look to be the 1st side in the Premier Division to beat Harlow in the league this season.

  The venue for today’s game The Harlow Arena, have visited the stadium before for an FAWSL match a coupe of seasons back between Millwall Lionesses and Watford Ladies. Is a new built stadium featuring a top notch 3G pitch that sees plenty of action throughout the week. Has multi teams playing on it regularly including Harlow Town Ladies 3 sides. A good sized artificial surface a large seated stand on one side housing the changing rooms bar and clubhouse with hot and cold refreshments available. A dry day if overcast overhead, a chilly breeze that was swirling about the stadium, no where near as strong as Doris was in the week.

  Harlow Town Ladies starting XI – Kerry Davies, Maisie Ryan, Megan Sende, Fran Gamble, Christie Seakins, Taylor O’Leary, Francesca Tye (C), Nicole Learner, Danielle Hills, Tayla Handscombe & Dempsey Favell.
  subs – Tia Dye, Lucy Sende, Karys Paton & Rhiann Patmore.

  Lawford Ladies starting XI – Louise Murphy, Jo Ribet, Sofia Serghiou, Hayley Chapman (C), Ella Boyden, Lauren Richardson, Sasha McDonald, Sheena Foley, Jade Heath, Jasmine Cox & Daisy Canny.
  subs – Michelle Foley, Codie Laurie, Susie Jackson & Gemma Issacs.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Harlow to get the 1st half underway, kitted out in red and white hooped shirts with red sleeves, blue shirts and red socks with Lawford lined up opposite wearing sky blue and white vertical striped shirts, navy shorts and socks. The early play is squeezed both sides pressing the ball in the middle Harlow captain, Francesca Tye getting the ball out to Tayla Handscomb breaking into space on the right wing her early diagonal ball intended for striker Dempsey Favell making a run into the box is intercepted and cleared by Lawford’s captain Hayley Chapman playing at centre back.
  Working the ball out to the left wing Harlow get the ball into Danielle Hill, Megan Sende gets forwards to support exchanging passes Lawford prevent the cross coming in, the clearance comes to Lauren Richardson the ball played on Lawford counter attack the ball fired into Jasmine Cox moving left to right across the D has the ball at her feet slips as she shoots the ball running harmlessly wide across the Harlow goal.
 

Dempsey Favell opens the opening
goal for Harlow Town Ladies

GOAL! 4 minutes played and the opening goal is scored, Harlow launching a counter attack from a Lawford free-kick played up towards the area from the halfway line headed back out of the area by the Harlow defence the ball falls to midfielder Taylor O’Leary, she bursts forwards with the ball at her feet, up top Favell is already on the move O’Leary picking her out with a defence splitting pass, through on goal, Lawford goalkeeper Louise Murphy comes rushing out of her area to close Favell down, she releases the ball early lobbing it over the goalkeeper, into the area beyond and bounces into the goal beyond 1-0. 

 
 Two committed sides out there some crunching 50/50 balls no one afforded much time on the ball, Lawford win a free-kick on halfway the ball played up to the top of the area is won by Sasha McDonald who heads the ball on into the box, Cox goes after it as goalkeeper Kerry Davies rushing out to claim slides in the pair collide the ball deflected behind goal, play is brought back for a free-kick for Harlow the flag up against Cox. 
 

 Tye bringing the ball on through the middle of the park for Harlow has Maisie Ryan breaking forwards from right back plays the ball out to her playing the cross into the box early the ball goes long, bouncing in the area is picked up by Hill on the left side inside the box, shoots putting the ball wide of goal. Ryan with another chance to bring the ball on down the right side plays it into Favell outside the area, seeing the ball into her body holds it up well before passing it into the area for Tye making a forwards run on her right closing in on goal looks to square the ball across the six yard box, Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou sliding in produces a great tackle the ball going out for a corner on the right. Glanced off a Lawford head inside the six yard box the ball goes out for a throw-in on the opposite side of the pitch. 

Lawford Ladies, Sofia Serghiou

  GOAL! Harlow extend their lead inside the opening 15 minutes, Lawford force Harlow to play the ball backwards from the throw, getting it across the pitch to the right the long ball forwards once again picks out Favell outside the box holding it up right of goal puts the ball into the centre isn’t cleared played through into the feet of Nicole Learner left of the D shoots from outside the box the ball past the diving Murphy and into the bottom corner of the net 2-0.

 
Nicole Learner makes it 2-0 for Harlow Town Ladies
   A good start to the match for Harlow and they very nearly extend the lead moments later the ball as Fran Gamble wins the ball at the back play it into O’Leary sees Handscombe on the move on the right wing passes the ball out to her carrying it down the line fires a cross in towards Favell making a near post run controls well inside the six yard box adjusting her feet and getting a shot away as she falls, Murphy has the post covered getting across makes the blocking save the ball rebounding out across goal drops to Learner attempts to volley it goalwards flies back across the six yard box grounded Favell uses her studs to knock it back across goal Chapman boots it clear for Lawford.
 
   Frustrated at conceding 2 early goals Lawford double their efforts to close Harlow down on the ball, McDonald winning the tackle in the middle plays it on for Daisy Canny, the striker charging through the middle towards the Harlow box lifts the ball beyond the defence into the area with Jade Heath looking to get in behind from the right, Davies is off her line quickly out to claim the ball before her goal is threatened. Up the other end a timely challenge from Chapman getting back to tackle Hill breaking down the left channel as the ball is played long to her for Harlow. 
 
Daisy Canny attacking for Lawford Ladies

  Ryan breaking forwards on the right for Harlow sweeps her cross deep into the Lawford area across the six yard box, Lawford substitute, Suzie Jackson tracking back has to play the ball behind for the corner with Hill behind her on the left. Both sides are using their substitutes, Foley only just taken off comes back on for Ella Boyden who has taken a knock. Tye bringing the ball forwards for Harlow sends it on up into the area for Favell moving to the left, gets her shot away as Murphy comes sliding in to close her down the ball runs wide of goal a corner is signalled played in from the left Murphy coming through bodies near post punches the ball away falls to Hills inside the box but closed down quickly sends her shot wide of goal. Hills comes off for Harlow, Tia Dye coming on with 30 minutes played.

Tayla Handscombe looking to get away from
Lawford’s Sofia Serghiou
  Progressive build up play from Harlow looking to play short passes to get the ball forwards then out to Handscombe and Dye on the wings, in defence Chapman and Serghiou dealing with the final ball for Lawford into the box. Hills receives the ball from the left pushing on looks to shoot from 20 yards out, Serghiou rushing to meet her charges the shot down the ball deflects straight to O’Leary 25 yards out her snap shot loops up over the bar. Lucy Sende comes on for Handscombe for the last 5 minutes of the 1st half. 
   Lawford get the ball forwards late in the 1st half Richardson playing it into Canny outside the Harlow area left of the D with Cox in close support between the pair they keep hold of the ball rolled into Cox she shifts it into a central position room to curl in a shot is rising but straight at Davies central in her goal plucks the ball down cleanly into her gloves. A rapid counter from Harlow the ball played on by O’Leary sees Favell in behind left of goal driving on into the box doesn’t get much power behind her shot the ball rolling along the ground is easily saved by Murphy coming to close down the angle.
  Lawford attack the ball with Richardson is played out to Canny moving into space on the left side, Gamble goes with her, Canny getting to the ball 1st, cleverly shifts it inside to evade the defenders challenge heading towards the box lifts the ball up into the top of the area Heath coming in with Seakens challenging her, Davies rushing from goal they all meet 12 yards out the ball squirming free rolling towards the six yard box Canny is after in but before she can get there Gamble throws herself at the ball clearing it for a corner kick.
Lawford Ladies, Daisy Canny
  GOAL! From the resulting corner Lawford pull a goal back is a good delivery inswinging towards the near post area inside a yard from goal Canny is there the ball chest height Harlow struggle to clear it ends up diverted into the back of their net Canny pumping her arms in celebration, looked more an own goal and after match this was confirmed 2-1.
  Into injury time in the 1st half Harlow have a free-kick 30 yards out wide left of the Lawford area, Tye over the ball fires in low skipping off the surface in towards O’Leary positioned on the six yard line looks to turn and shoot as the ball crosses her path, Chapman closing her down defends well getting the ball away for a corner on the left. Defending the corner Lawford fail the get the ball away a hand ball spotted by the referee outside the box same side but closer in this time Richardson yellow carded as her protests go in vain. Tye takes on the shot this time the ball sails over the bar. 
Half-time Harlow Town Ladies 2-1 Lawford Ladies

  Having had the better of the 1st half Harlow Town Ladies take a narrow 2-1 lead into the changing rooms at half-time having taken a early 2 goal lead and frustrating their opponents Lawford capitalised late on to pull a goal back get themselves firmly back into the match. A competitve contest intriguing to watch clear to see why both sides are where they are in the league.

  Has gotten alot colder as the chilly breeze picks up strength swirling about the stadium as the two sides come out for the 2nd half Lawford getting things back underway. Karys Patmore is on in place of Ryan at right back for Harlow at the start of the 2nd half as they gain possession and look to make progress on the left side the ball into Lucy Sende wins a throw in. From the throw in Sende receives the ball rolls it across the face of the box where the 1st time shot is smashed in swerving wide of goal. Tye gets hold of the ball in the middle and drives forwards for Harlow, tries to thread the pass in behind the Lawford defence with Sende coming in from the left, Murphy sliding in saves at her feet, the ball is loose for a moment the goalkeeper adjusting quickly on the ground to pull it into her body with Favell closing it down.

Winning the ball in the middle captain Francesca Tye looks to attack for Harlow Town Ladies

  The strength of the wind is apparent as it causes a free-kick played in from the right for Harlow to stand up in the wind headed away by McDonald they look to counter attack, Richardson on the ball but fouls Sende as she attempts to get past her giving away a free-kick 40 yards out, Tye over the ball aims to drop it into the area in front of the six yard box, Murphy confidently catches with runners from Harlow closing in. The home side make full use of their substitutes regularly changing personal Learner and Rhian Patmore given a rest with Megan Sende and Hills returning to the action. A few challenges resulting in free-kicks the referee adding to Lawford’s frustration with both Canny and Richardson yellow carded. 

Lawford Ladies, Jade Heath

  Harlow are giving away free-kicks too Lawford awarded on on the top of the circle inside their opponents half the ball is played long to Heath out on the right her touch taking the ball inside towards the top of the box, Seakens can get to it 1st clear for Harlow. Serghiou is yellow carded for Lawford as she fouls Favell just outside the area as she receives the ball from O’Leary breaking through the middle. Is O’Leary with Tye over the ball right of the D, O’Leary’s as Tye runs at the ball hits it hard, Lawford’s Ribet charging towards the shot blocks taking a painful blow on the side of her head for her troubles the ball cleared for a throw in on the right. The ball helped on into O’Leary outside the box right corner drills a shot is flashing wide across the face of goal. 

   Lawford’s McDonald closes Hills down inside the area as the ball is swung into the area from the right, getting the ball away. Harlow are quick to press the ball in the middle of the park regain possession send it long out to Favell on the right looking to turn inside get into the area McDonald is their again getting her body across the attacker and playing the ball into Murphy the keeper kicking the ball clear. A strong start to the 2nd half by Harlow, Lawford unable to get any meaningful possession in the final 3rd.

  GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half and Harlow’s pressure counts as they extend their lead. Have a corner on the right after Tye’s run into the box sees her tackled strongly by Serghiou. Gamble up from the back heads the ball on at the near post into the middle of the six yard box, drops to Favell her shot is blocked at close range the rebound coming back to O’Leary 12 yards out, Serghiou lunges in to try and win the ball, takes the player aswell the referee pointing to the penalty spot. O’Leary to pick herself up and take the spot kick, sends the keeper the wrong way as she coolly rolls the ball into the opposite corner of the net 3-1.

Taylor O’Leary makes it 3-1 to Harlow from the penalty spot

  Lawford get the ball forwards from the restart Richardson passing the ball up towards the area with Heath coming in from the right, Davies coming out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at the attackers feet. Cox is fouled inside the centre circle giving Lawford a fee-kick, Ribet playing the ball up towards the top of the area Richardson up to head the ball on towards goal is cleared coming back to Richardson who meets the ball on the volley her strike blocked inside the six yard box. Tye turns and runs at the Lawford back line sliding Favell in behind, clear to attack the box beyond Murphy comes racing out of her area to win the ball send it back up the pitch. Favell comes off for Harlow as Handscombe returns to the action. 

  GOAL! Harlow extend their lead with less than 15 minutes of the 2nd half left to play. Players getting forwards as the ball is carried through the middle by O’Leary, her pass picking out Tye outside the box left side of the D, seeing the ball into her body moves inside finding half a yard to shoot sends the ball arrowing in towards goal rising flies over the keeper and into the back of the net 4-1.

Harlow Town Ladies captain, Francesca Tye 

  A quiet spell follows as both sides compete to stop the other having the ball attacks broken down before they can begin. Hills sees a goal chalked off for offside as she beats the keeper to the ball inside the box having gotten onto the end of a through ball from Learner. Cox then charges down a shot from Learner herself as she looks to take aim from 30 yards out. Codie Laurie comes on late in the game going up top with Chapman coming off at the back as they look to alter formation go 3 at the back. Harlow attack the ball rolled into O’Leary 25 yards out in front of the Lawford box has Dye to her right plays the ball into her feet carries it into the area doesn’t shoot 1st time, Serghiou threatens to take the ball from her getting it around the defender shoots the ball coming in centrally easily held by Murphy.

Lawford Ladies, Lauren Richardson with Harlow’s Lucy Sende

  Defending a Lawford free-kick Harlow attempt to break from their area, Richardson closing the ball down on the left side wins it back rolls in inside to Canny back to goal holding the ball up looks to roll it into Heath, Seakens can reach it 1st and plays it out from the back for Harlow. Into injury time Dye gets hold of the ball taking it on through the middle, Serghiou across times her tackle well.

Full time Harlow Town Ladies 4-1 Lawford Ladies

  Harlow Town Ladies extend their winning run in the league to 15 games, are in a commanding position at the top of the Essex Women’s Premier Division and well on their way to claiming their 2nd league title in as many seasons. A frustrating result for Lawford conceding early were on the back foot for much of the match despite some good build up play were never allowed much time on the ball in the final 3rd. Pulling it back to 2-1 late in the 1st half gave them an opportunity, Harlow coming out the stronger in the 2nd half played some good short passing football looking to use the whole pitch rotating their substitutes to full effect. A great advert for women’s football in Essex.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

A few names in contention for the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today. I’ve picked midfielder Taylor O’Leary, proactive all game winning the ball for Harlow and looking to turn and attack herself or bring others into play, won and scored the penalty. A good range of passing too.

Harlow Town Ladies, Taylor O’Leary

  Enjoyed my 1st taste of Premier Division football in Essex, my thanks to Harlow for their hospitality and both sides for their help with the teams today.

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

This Sunday’s football action on the SWF Blog came from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup with 12 sides left in the competition vying for 6 spots in the 5th Round when the 10 FAWSL 1 sides enter the cup. The venue today Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competitions so far this season take on their biggest test yet FAWSL 2 opposition with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the visitors.

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

 
  This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup the entrants whittled down to just 12 sideLondonontest 6 ties to be joined by the sides from FAWSL 1 that will enter the competition in the 5th Round, today it’s a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on the newest side to join the FAWSL, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

  Have been trying to get down to see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play twice so far in 2017 but the weather has put pay to that both times around, they are enjoying a fabulous season so far are undefeated in all competitions with just the one draw in the league to date. Into the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup and FAWPL Cup where they are defending the trophy. Have also reached the Boux Avenue Final for the 3rd consecutive season. A tough challenge today against FAWSL opposition in the cup as Tottenham look to be one of the few remaining FAWPL sides to make it into the 5th Round Proper. 

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies entered this season’s FA Women’s Cup in the 1st Round Proper of the competition were drawn at home to Leyton Orient WFC a single goal scored by Wendy Martin taking the FAWPL Southern Division leaders through to the 2nd Round Proper where they were drawn at home playing FAWPL South East Division One side, Gillingham FC Ladies a much more comfortable result winning 3-0 to set up a long away trip to play FAWPL Northern Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The sides level at 1-1 going into 2nd half injury time Bianca Baptiste scored for Tottenham in the 93rd minute to seal a 2-1 victory and a home draw in the 4th Round against Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC did last season what Tottenham are hope to achieve this time around, win the FAWPL Southern Division title. Went on to beat Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off game back in May last year. Making their bow in the FAWSL 2 Spring Series last Saturday earning a 1-1 draw away to London Bees. Played their 1st competitive match of the season in the previous round of the FA Women’s Cup before that the FAWSL 2 sides entering the competition in the 3rd Round Proper were drawn away to FAWPL South East Division One side, AFC Wimbledon Ladies won the game 4-1 to advance to the next round.

  Cheshunt FC  the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, the pitch a good size showing a little wear has seen alot of football this season, was nevertheless firm and dry underfoot. The weather has been poor at the start of 2017 plenty of matches called off but no danger of that this Sunday a fairly mild day for February dark clouds overhead a hint of a light shower but nothing else as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Leah Rawle, Lucia Leon, Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Riana Soobadoo, Bianca Baptiste, Nikita Whinnett & Wendy Martin.
  subs – Megan Lynch, Kelley Blanchflower, Maya Vio & Eartha Pond.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicki Ashton-Jones, Charlotte Young, Kirsty Barton, Laura Rafferty, Lucy Somes, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
  subs – Leah Samain, Hollie Olding, Bronwen Thomas & Ellie Dorey

   It’s Brighton to get today’s FA Women’s Cup tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing orange shirts, white shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, navy shorts and socks. Right from the 1st Brighton touch Tottenham move in quickly to press the ball winning possession the ball is played forwards up to Wendy Martin in attack inside the box is played back to Nikita Whinnett who joined the club from Charlton Athletic Women in the summer, outside the area is closed down go Jenna Legg as she looks to turn in behind the ball lost is picked up by Leah Rawle getting forwards from the back for Tottenham drives with the ball at her feet down the left wing squaring a high cross into the Brighton six yard box is comfortably claimed by goalkeeper, Emma Byrne.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Wendy Martin

  Brighton get hold of the ball as it is played into the feet of Kate Natkiel helps it on out to the right wing with Alessia Russo getting forwards cutting back inside as she reaches the top of the Tottenham box cuts across her shot as she sends the ball goalwards causing it it swerve away from goal landing in the side netting. The game has started at a rapid tempo no one afforded much time on the ball, winning it at the back Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci plays it long through the middle with Whinnett making a central run getting clear of the Brighton centre-backs, Byrne is well placed at the top of the area to gather before the striker can capitalise.

   Lucia Leon is forwards on the right for Tottenham as the home side builds an attack has support from Sophie McLean they exchange passes 25 yards out before Leon threaded a diagonal ball into the box looking for Martin near post, looks to see the ball across her body intending to take a shot, Whinnett slips her marker making a move for the ball leaning into the shot reaches it before Martin sends her effort curling wide of the post. 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Nikita Whinnett

  Tottenham playing 3 at the back are playing a high line, looks risky if the opposition can get in behind however they drop back very quickly went their opponents regain the ball and with Josie Green playing just in front of the back 3 the defenders either side of Schillaci, Renee Hector and Rawle can move across to deal with their respective wide players. In attack Whinnett and Bianca Baptiste on the right side are providing the width but the Brighton defence is well organised and the final ball from both sides is being won by a defender in the early exchanges. 

 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies
captain Jenna Schillaci

Leon get’s hold of the ball inside the Brighton half for Tottenham rolls it on for Baptiste down the right wing taking the ball down to the byline into the area her attempted cross is charged down by Vicki Ashton-Jones as she goes to ground the ball rebounding back to Baptiste tries again playing the ball in towards the near post is scooped up on the bounce by Byrne. A quick counter attack the ball played into midfield Laura Rafferty plays it to Lucy Somes on the left side playing it on for Amy Taylor the striker with Hector on her shoulder heads for the box left of goal is past the onrushing keeper but play is brought back as Taylor fouled hector in the process.

  Russo closes down Schillaci taking the ball from the defender as she tries to bring it out from the back running in behind takes on the shot from outside the box, her low drive stopped by goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne diving to her left. Green carries the ball forwards for Tottenham passing it onto Riana Soobadoo ahead of her sends the ball out towards Baptiste on the right a burst of pace before playing a pacey cross in towards martin moving towards the near post, can’t get a touch as the ball runs across her races across the face of goal and out of play for a goal-kick at the far post.

  Brighton captain, Sophie Perry is allowed to travel with the ball on the left plays it on for Somes ahead of her comes in field before rolling the ball across to Taylor outside the box, her 1st time strike is blocked by Schillaci. End to end Tottenham soon have the ball up the other end over the top with Baptiste giving chase Byrne plays the ball wide attempting to put it out for a throw is retrieved by Martin who plays it back in to Baptiste 25 yards out takes on the strike her shot sailing over the bar. Brighton are getting a little frustrated are pinned back inside their half with Tottenham pressing all over the park can’t get anything to stick higher up the pitch. 

Nikita Whinnett holds Brighton captain, Sophie Perry off the ball

  Somes is fouled wide on the left with around 10 minutes of the 1st half left, Charlotte Young makes a late run to get up into the area from the back as Perry delivers the ball into the area, is over Young dropping for Hector beyond her clearance is picked up by Natkiel 25 yards out drives the ball low into the area, is blocked too many bodies to go through, running out of play the referee gives a goal-kick. The 1st corner of the game doesn’t come until the 37th minute going to Tottenham, Martin forcing the error from Young the set-piece comes to nothing. 

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to get the better of Tottenham’s Jenna Schillaci

  Leon steals in to win the ball inside the Brighton half getting it forwards produces a defence splitting pass to thread the ball in towards Martin centrally positioned inside the area, Legg with a superb recovering tackle gets across in the nick of time to take the ball away from Martin’s toes Young clearing the ball from the area. The last 5 minutes of the 1st half is full of promising attacks but both defences working hard to stop the final ball see very little action inside the box. Late on into injury time in the 1st half Natkiel getting the ball out to Russo right earns Brighton a throw-in, played in towards Russo outside the Tottenham area turns in field heading for the box jinks right avoiding Rawle’s lunging challenge then rifles her shot over the crossbar.

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

  An intriguing 1st half an entertaining game so far 2 closely matched sides testing each other out, few chances created in the match despite both sides constantly looking for an opening. Tottenham have edged the chances in front of goal although neither goalkeeper has been tested yet. Beautifully poised the 2nd half could go either way. 
  No changes for either side although Rafferty has a bandaged knee following a knock picked up in the 1st half for Brighton. Tottenham to get the 2nd half started. Have the early possession McLean playing the ball forwards into Martin with Whinnett close by, outside the area a shot comes in runs wide of goal.
  Tottenham have a throw-in high up the pitch on the right the ball is played into Whinnett’s feet turning inside pushes for the box right of goal unleashes a shot flies across Byrne positioned centrally, strikes the far post and rebounds out towards Baptiste racing into the area throws herself at the ball, flies up over Byrne coming down off the crossbar Brighton struggle to get it clear coming back to Baptiste has another go a wild strike flies high over the bar. 
  Rafferty getting the ball forwards has Somes in space out wide left picks her out with a well timed long pass, Somes looks to control and come inside top of the area thread the ball into Taylor in a central position, Leon has support from Soobadoo as the pair get back to squeeze Somes off the ball before she can deliver the final ball. Brighton push numbers forwards with purpose in the next attack the ball from Barton out to the right lifted into the area Taylor hitting it on the run is blocked at close range the rebound falling favourably for Tottenham to clear. 
 GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken, Tottenham have a throw up on the the right inside the Brighton half the ball is played into Whinnett who comes inside with the ball 25 yards out across the face of the area rolls the ball into Martin back to goal inside the area turns her shot blocked by Ashton-Jones closely marking her the ball is cleared out to the left going straight to Baptiste, takes on the shot from distance her strike flying over Byrne and under the bar into the back of the net to give Tottenham the lead 1-0. 
 
Tottenham’s Bianca Baptiste with Brighton’s Charlotte Young
  McLean is fouled as she holds the ball up wide on the right Tottenham send players forwards into the box as Hector stands over the set-piece the ball is flighted in to the area with Whinnett making a run from the penalty spot to the near post, the delivery too close to Byrne the goalkeeper can get her gloves firmly around the ball 1st. Whinnett on the ball a powerful run on the right lays the pass inside for McLean 25 yards out central sends a high ball into the box, Byrne calls and claims it with Martin in behind her. 
  Young sends the ball long from the back for Brighton with Somes giving chase into the left corner coming back up the pitch plays it across the top of the area into Barton, shifts it looking for room to play a pass sending it on for Natkiel top of the D puts the ball into the area with Taylor after it, Green is ahead of her looks to shield the ball out of play as it runs wide, gets a shove from Taylor a bit of afters sees Taylor yellow carded. Natkiel gets possession of the ball on the right pushing forwards her cross into the area is headed away by Rawle, dropping towards Barton outside the area, has no time to see the ball down onto the floor goes for the acrobatic sends the ball goalwards too high however whistles over the bar.
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC’s, Kirsty Barton
 The game is stretched the tempo hasn’t dropped in the slightest, Brighton pressing looking for an equaliser, Tottenham wanting a 2nd goal. Ashton-Jones fouls Whinnett on halfway, Baptiste over the ball floats it up towards the top of the area, Young headers clear, falling to Soobadoo hits it back in along the ground, blocked then cleared. Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards giving Brighton a free-kick 35 yards out, Perry on the ball goes for goal, Wayne can see the ball run wide of goal. Tottenham make their 1st change on 71 minutes bringing on Maya Vio for Soobadoo. 
Brighton’s Jenna Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards
  Brighton respond with a double change on 76 minutes with Rafferty and Somes the players coming off, Bronwen Thomas and Hollie Olding. Martin and Whinnett try a one two outside the area Ashton-Jones nips in to tackle and win the ball. Russo is playing through the middle now for Brighton supporting Taylor with Natkiel left, Thomas right win a corner, Tottenham defend well threaten to counter attack, Barton wins the ball back. The ball is played out to Thomas attacking down the right fizzes a cross in towards the near post getting down falling onto the ball Wayne spills her initial save but recovers quickly to get up smother the ball with Taylor closing in. 
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC
captain, Sophie Perry
  Perry brings the ball on down the left for Brighton her cross is cut back towards the top of the area controlled well by Thomas just inside the area plays it back to Natkiel lays it out to Legg coming in from the right her ball lifted into the area runs wide at the near post. Perry again up the left for Natkiel who plays it inside to Russo sees Wayne off her line tries the lob from distance but off target bounces wide of goal. Baptiste run of running gets across from the left to the right winning a throw-in for Tottenham the ball is played into McLean plays it into Whinnett central takes on the shot places the ball straight into Byrne who holds onto the ball. 
  Into the closing minutes Brighton break down the right Russo with the ball at her feet sends in a low drive angling into the bottom corner, Wayne dives full stretch across her goal to get a glove to the ball push it with a vital save to keep Tottenham’s lead intact. Tottenham defend the corner kick. Brighton push everyone forwards late into the game everyone bar their keeper in the Tottenham half, risk the counter but need the goal get hit on the break Whinnett getting in behind on the right holds the ball up well before playing in inside to Martin a good turn before playing it on for Baptiste coming in from the left her goal bound effort blocked by Legg. 
  Into injury time and the last place Brighton want the ball is with the Tottenham attackers in the corner. The home side do a great job of keeping the ball there to see out the game and win, Bianca Baptiste’s strike enough to see the FAWPL Southern Division side into the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup.
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies celebrate at the final whistle
Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

  A really good contest to watch this one, 2 very good sides, a single goal enough to win the game, Tottenham continuing their excellent run of form, can see why they are doing so well and glad I got down to see them at last this season. Brighton created chances but not much inside the box, prevented very little inside their box as well both sides pressing the ball Tottenham just had the extra bit of movement in their legs to get the result on the day.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  A good all round team performance from Tottenham today, a well taken goal from Baptiste, however today’s SWF Blog Player of the Match goes to Josie Green in midfield covered plenty of ground in front of the defence stifling Brighton’s attack winning the ball and a range of pass to turn a defensive position into a rapid attack.
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Josie Green
  My thanks to Tottenham for helping me out with the teams today.
 *UPDATE* The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies away from home in a North London derby on the weekend of 18th/19th March.

Match Report – Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

Sunday’s football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the Norfolk Women’s Division One with in form Bungay Town Ladies in 4th place in the league winning all of their matches in 2017 to date travelling to play Brandon Town Ladies on a bitterly cold day in on of the few games to beat the weather in the league.

Match Report – Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

 
  After a trip to The Hive yesterday to see the opening match in the FAWSL 2’s new one off Spring Series competition between London Bees and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, stayed local for this Sunday’s women’s football action travelling over the border into Suffolk to watch the Norfolk Women’s Division One match between Brandon Town Ladies & Bungay Town Ladies. 

  With snow all around the country the ground already very wet it looked like ti was going to be another weekend full of postponements, even the FAWSL’s new Spring Series didn’t survive unscathed. Didn’t have a Plan A this weekend not committing to game too early having seen 3 called off already this year. Had a short list and Brandon Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies was on it 20 minutes away the snow that was on my lawn was thawing rapidly even if it was still bitterly cold, extra layers on hit the road.

  Norfolk Women’s Division One is a very competitive league although this season so far it is being dominated by Thorpe United Ladies who have won all 9 of their league games so far and excellent run of form has seen Kings Lynn Town Ladies overhaul newly promoted North Walsham Angels Ladies who lay 3rd going into this weekends match due to play each other this Sunday at North Walsham the game was postponed, giving an opportunity to 4th placed Bungay Town Ladies to move above them.

  Brandon Town Ladies go into today’s game in 6th place in the table well clear of the bottom 2 sides, have had a frustrating season so far in the league with 3 wins 1 draw and 4 losses postponements and having players unavailable for some games hasn’t helped them build any momentum. Have had a good run in the League Cup competition and will play today’s opponents, Bungay Town Ladies away in the semi-finals of the competition. Today is their 3rd meeting in the league with Brandon winning 4-3 at the start of the season at home, then losing away 4-0 back on the 15th January.

  Bungay Town Ladies got off to a bad start in the league this season losing their opening 3 games. Recovered towards the end of 2016 winning twice in the league. Have had an excellent run in 2017 getting regular matches in winning 3 in a row in the league given a home win in the League Cup quarter finals. Spoke to manager Graham Purling during the summer at a pr-season friendly and he was optimistic about the squad the club had assembled this season. 

  Brandon Town Ladies play their home matches at the Brandon Leisure Centre, a multi-sports facility offering several full-sized football pitches. Despite the amount of rain and dusting of snow to hit the country over the past few days the pitch had held up well, looked muddy but had featured a game earlier in the day and despite being cut up it was surprisingly dry underfoot no standing water. A large pitch, it was a bitterly cold afternoon, gloomy with dark clouds all around.

  Brandon Town Ladies starting XI – Shannon Odebrecht, Melanie Talbot, Cassandra Carvalheira, Shanice Burch, Laura Grove, Chloe Slater, Carolyn Sarafian, Ruby Robertson, Frankie Torrance (C), Brooke Wickens & Elicia Cooper.
  subs – Hazel Shepherd, Lauren Riding & Emma Johnson.

  Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Hannah Jones, Kelly Collins (C) Jessica Keeling, Charlotte Power, Inna Marx, Ella Hindley, Nicki Hazel, Lauren Purling, Laura Holden & Stephanie Cool.
  subs – Rebecca Rylott. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides had a newly registered signing in their squad for today’s game, Elicia Cooper starting in attack for Brandon Town Ladies. Rebecca Rylott, Bungay Town Ladies only available substitute. Bungay to kick-off the 1st half wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks, with Brandon lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The ball gets played long out to the right for Lauren Purling to chase early on winning a throw the ball is lifted up the line for striker Stef Cool getting into the box her ball forwards his cut out by Brandon’s Cassandra Carvalheira behind for a corner kick. Headed out of the area by Brandon they look to counter attack on the right players from both sides racing back towards the Bungay goal as the ball is played into the feet of Brooke Wickens coming in off the wing to get into he area is challenged by Bungay’s Charlotte Power winning the ball back for the visitors.

Bringing the ball forwards Bungay centre back Charlotte Power evades a Brandon tackle

  The action is end to end in the early minutes both sides contesting the ball hard in midfield Wickens plays a great crossfield pass from right to left picking out captain Frankie Torrance on the wing drives forwards looking to get into the box, no way past Bungay right back, Hannah Jones who stands her ground times her tackle well. Both sides looking to exploit the wide players, Inna Marx sends the ball out to Nicki Hazel on the left pushing on crosses as reaches the top of the area the ball angling towards the near post caught by Brandon Town Ladies goalkeeper, Shannon Odebrecht. 

 

GOAL! The opening goal of the match comes after just 6 minutes of play, Brandon pressing forwards in attack lose possession the ball is played direct through the middle both Cool and Laura Holden are in through on goal as Odebrecht comes racing out to the edge of the area with Cool closest the keepers clearance doesn’t go far striking Holden inside the D, gets a shot away, Odebrecht doing well to get a glove on the ball palms it into the ground isn’t under control Holden gets to it 1st to send the ball centrally into the back of the net 0-1 to Bungay.

Laura Holden scores the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies

  Brandon attack from the restart getting a throw deep on the left played into Carvalheira her cross from 35 yards out is a good one coming in high Ruby Robertson gets up to head the ball can’t direct her effort on target as it bounces wide across the six yard box. Wickens in possession on the right plays the ball in field to Carolyn Sarafain the midfielder in front of the centre circle decides to have a pop at goal on target is straight at Bungay goalkeeper Ruth Smart who takes it cleanly into her body. Making progress with the ball on the right Brandon have a throw players drift across as the throw is taken is Elicia Cooper squares the ball in towards Torrance outside the area in front of the D, back to goal hits the half volley on the turn her strike bouncing wide past the far post. 

  Another good crossfield ball from Wickens on the right picks out Torrance on the left cuts inside rolling the ball in field to Sarafain outside the area shifts the ball before hooking a shot in towards goal, again her effort drops into the keepers gloves back on her line. Robertson gets back on Cool as she breaks for the Brandon area, tackling concedes the corner kick played in from the right by Hazel his headed clear of the area by Laura Grove coming back out to Hazel sweeps a cross into the box Jones gets her head to the ball 10 yards out sends her effort over the crossbar.

Brandon Town Ladies, Carolyn Sarafain

  Picking the ball up from a throw on the right 30 yards out Ella Hindley turns inside carrying the ball towards the Brandon box, scoops the ball up off the turf sending a shoot in towards goal, isn’t too far over as it dips late over the bar. Hindley with a run through the centre of midfield lays the ball on for Purling on the move up the right wing, Shanice Burch comes across to tackle her gets a knock as she puts the ball out for the throw deep in the corner up okay after treatment. A few crunching challenges about the pitch Marx and Sarafain clatter into each other from to try and win a 50/50 ball (poor thing). Pressure on the ball from both sides, Bungay are a little more successful with the final ball isn’t coming off for Brandon. The visitors winning another corner on the right the ball is lifted into the centre of the goal Odebrecht calls and take well before being bundled over by the onrushing Bungay attacker to get a free-kick. 

Bungay Town Ladies, Lauren Purling
  A corner from Bungay on the left sees Brandon goalkeeper Odebrecht pull off a superb save the best I suspect I’ll see this year! Initially doesn’t do so went coming into the crowd at the near post to punch the ball away, instead knocks it down into the ground, players scramble for the ball is squeezed out to Hindley inside opposite the far post, I’m standing on half way behind goal as she shifts the ball with her 1st touch has an open goal to aim at hits the ball goalwards should be a certain goal, however out of no where Odebrecht appears throwing herself full stretch low across her goal-line to glove the ball away for the corner an excellent piece of goalkeeper, had it been Karen Bardsley the Vine loops would be in there thousands as it is you will just have to take my word for it!
  A powerful run on the ball from Brandon’s Wickens through the middle moves to the right looking to make the angle for a shot, Bungay captain Kelly Collins gets back at her to slide in to tackle and win the ball back. The counter attacking football keeps coming Brandon’s Chloe Slater on the move up the pitch plays it on for Carvalheira ahead of her on the left has Sarafain keeping pace with her lays the ball off into the middle, into the midfielders stride she 30 yards out she goes for the 1st time shot her strike whistling over the bar.
Brandon Town Ladies, Brooke Wickens
  Brandon make a change up top bringing off Cooper and sending on Hazel Shepherd  as Bungay win a corner with Purling played in down the right the ball is played into the six yard box deep knocked out towards the edge of the area Jess Keeling up from the back gathers for the visitors stabs a shot in towards goal his held on the line by Odebrecht. Hazel with a good run up the right side for Bungay lays the ball into Hindley on the move towards the Brandon area gets a shot away as she is closed down by Burch bounces wide of goal. 
  Brandon have upped the tempo as the 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes but have yet to test Smart in the Bungay goal. A throw on the right side is played into Brandon’s Shepherd 25 yards out from goal driving forward looks to play in Torrance making a run from the left into the area, Jones throws out a long leg to intercept the ball. One last attack in the 1st half for Bungay Purling on the left forwards for Cool to chase hits the shot from outside the area runs all the way along the ground to be scooped up safely by Odebrecht inside her six yard box. 

Half-time Brandon Town Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

 An high paced and exciting 1st half of football, Bungay Town Ladies with the narrow advantage have created the better chances in front of goal. Is bitterly cold however and I can’ blame them for wanting to keep the ball moving. A shortened half-time interval as both sides stay by the side of the pitch. The visitors getting into some good attacking positions Purling and Hazel a threat out wide, Holden just 16 with some dynamic runs through the middle supporting Cool in attack. Brandon with some good build up play their final ball just not finding it’s mark. 45 minutes left to play.

  A change for Bungay at the start of the 2nd half with Rylott coming on in place of Hazel going into a wide right position. Brandon get the 2nd half underway, Bungay get possession and attack down the right keeping the ball in the final 3rd before the ball is played inside to Cool outside the box slicing across the ball be strike races wide across the area out for the goal-kick. Sarafain gets forwards for Brandon the ball put into her feet by Wickens goes to strike the ball from outside the box a knick off a Bungay defender diverts the shot straight into Smart’s gloves. Both sides continue to press the ball keeping up the pace of the 1st half. Shepherd is played on down the right wing by Carvalheira her cross in to the area intercepted by Collins.

Lauren Purling & Carolyn Sarafain

   Holden picking the ball up from deep goes on a run through the middle heading for the Brandon box is tracked all the way by Slater who slides in to take the ball play it back to her keeper. Torrance and Wickens link up on the left side the through ball from Torrance just a little too heavy for Wickens running into the box Smart coming off her line can get there 1st. Up the other end Odebrecht is quickly out of her area to kick the ball as Rylott plays Cool in behind the defence. 

Brandon Town Ladies, Chloe Slater

  Bungay break from a Brandon corner the ball played out to Purling on the left side Talbot gets across diving in to put the ball out for the throw. Purling takes a knock in the challenge but is up on her feet from the throw the ball is worked down the line by the visitors finally being played into Purling just inside the box on the left turning she is caught as a Brandon defender lunges in to try and win the ball, the referee stops play Purling clearly coming off the worse, after treatment can’t continue and is substituted Hazel returning to the pitch. Brandon also make a switch Cooper returning to the pitch in place of Shepherd.

  Holden nips in to win the ball from the Brandon back line has Cool and Rylott either side of her as she heads towards the box tries to pick out Rylott to her right the pass a little too heavy Rylott keeps it in play before winning a throw level with the box, the ball is played down to Marx’s feet puts the pass inside for Holden who seeing the ball into her body turns and hits the ball on the volley her shot angling in at head height towards the ear post, Odebrecht has it covered takes the ball cleanly.

  Brandon have a free-kick wide right outside the box after Hazel handles the ball, Slater over the set-piece sends the ball high into the area Hindley heads the ball clear for Bungay they counter attack the pass out towards Hazel on the left side travelling with the ball turns infield heading for the area pulling the trigger 25 yards out the shot straight at Odebrecht the keeper claiming the ball on her goal-line. 

 GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and Bungay double their lead pressuring the ball as Brandon try to play it out from the back Holden wins the tackle takes the ball on into the area before prodding it forwards for Cool right side of goal close range rolls the ball past the keeper and into the back of the net 0-2.

 Shepherd returns to the action for Brandon winning a corner on the right side bring players forwards, Hindley defends for Bungay winning the near post header giving away 2 more corners before the visitors break from the 3rd the ball played long out to Cool on the left on halfway gives it to Holden who surges forwards moving left has Hazel with her their runs taking them across each other Holden leaves it for Hazel who strikes the shot from outside the box the ball flying narrowly over the crossbar. 

Laura Holden looking to get past Chloe Slater

  The sun finally makes an appearance late in the day breaking through the clouds, Bungay attack the ball played into Cool’s feet outside the area to the right has Hindley making a run towards the area lays the ball into her path Hindley striking the shot 1st time gets plenty of power behind the shot is straight at Odebrecht again and the keeper makes the save. Brandon bring the ball forwards through the middle Shepherds strike is deflected out for a throw level with the top of the area played into Sarafain’s feet the midfielder turns and looks to curl a shot in towards goal from inside the D, dips late but not enough to take it below the crossbar. Bungay get the ball up the other end Hindley steals the ball inside the box as it comes in from a throw-in works room for a shot left side the ball is held by Odebrecht as Cool looks to pounce on any follow-up.

Bungay Town Ladies, Ella Hindley
 
2 goals for Bungay Town Ladies
Stef Cool

 GOAL! Bungay don’t let Brandon out of their final 3rd from the previous attack closing players down outside the box, it’s Holden who regains possession moving towards the top of the area left of the D rolls the ball into the area for Cool who on the opposite side to wear she scored her 1st goal does exactly the same placing the ball across the keeper from inside the six yard box to score her 2nd a see Bungay take a 0-3 lead with around 15 minutes left on the clock.

  Marx gets hold of the ball for Bungay some 30 yards out from goal time to line up a shot, places her strike wide across the Brandon goal. Bungay are finishing the game strong Purling her knee bandaged up returns to the field in place of Rylott. Brandon keep going forwards when they have the ball getting to the top of the Bungay area the final ball just won’t fall to an attacker, Jones blocking a strike from outside the box by Shepherd. Torrance rifles a shot in from the wide left position, Smart coming across to cover her near post can see the ball wide into the side netting.

 Wickens marked by 3 players wide right wins Brandon a throw the ball played into her wide of the box helps it inside to Slater looking to play it across the face of goal, the ball is too close to Smart, spilt however the corner is given away. The delivery from the corner drops into the crowded six yard box Smart can’t get hold of the ball dropping down a shot comes in too many bodies in front of goal the ball blocked spins out to the right the shot angled in towards goal Smart gets down sharply on her goal line to make the save. 

 A chance for Cool to claim her hat-trick late in the match as Holden picks up the ball and carries it forwards has Hazel with her, Holden rolls the ball to her, Hazel lays it on for Cool to her right squeezes the ball past the defence to get into the box, can only pick out the goalkeeper as she gets a shot away. 

Full time – Brandon Town Ladies 0-3 Bungay Town Ladies

  A 3-0 win for Bungay Town Ladies sees them keep their winning run in 2017 going and the 3 points moves them level on points and above North Walsham Angels Ladies into 3rd place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. Kept up a high tempo throughout the 90 minutes closing the ball down getting forwards always looking a threat creating the better chances in front of goal. A good contest that highlights just how competitive the league is.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

 With a 1st half goal and 2 assists in the 2nd half the SWF Blog – Player of the Match today is Laura Holden, the 16 year old playing just her 2nd game for Bungay not letting Brandon settle on the ball, getting the tackles in to win the ball and carry it forwards.
  My thanks to both clubs for their assistance today.

Match Report – London Bees v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

What’s this? A game from the FAWSL on Women’s Football East! Well it seems only right to give Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the coverage afterall they earned promotion to the FAWSL last May via the FAWPL Play-off game after winning the Southern Division title and after all Women’s Football East wants to see as many sides in the region reach and play at the top level of the women’s game. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog was at The Hive to cover their debut match in the one off Spring Series as the new season got underway.

Match Report – London Bees v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

 
   A new season of FAWSL football begins this Saturday, although it’s a much shorter season compared to the one’s we’ve been used to. With the FAWSL preparing to move back in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid in England for the 2017/18 season after 5 years of playing during the summer months there will be a one off Spring Series. A trophy for both the FAWSL 1 & 2 competitions with each side playing each other once to decide the overall winner. The FAWSL 2 Spring Series starts with London Bees versus FAWSL newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion WFC at The Hive.

 Wrote a preview for the FAWSL 2 Spring Series in the post prior to today’s match. As I said then I’m excited by what the one off competition has to offer, is silverware to play for but not the pressure a full blown season offers sides can bed in new players, try new thing’s for better or worse. Momentum can’t be under estimated mind a good Spring Series will send a side into the new 2017/18 season with confidence. 

  London Bees enter the Spring Series with a stride in their step having had a much improved season in 2016 under Dave Edmondson. Playing some attractive football eventually ending up 7th their highest FAWSL 2 finish in amongst the mid-table sides the perfect platform to go on and improve. Have made several new signings over the winter bringing in Laura-May Walkley from Reading FC Women. Defender, Anne Meiwald joins from Chelsea Ladies along with Watford Ladies trio, Jordan Littleboy, Amber Tullett and Mollie Burgess aswell as retaining the services of several of their stand-out performers last season.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC, winning the FAWPL Southern Division title last season went on to beat Northern Division Champions, Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off match at Wycombe Wanderers in May to win their place in the FAWSL the 2nd side to be promoted to the league following Sheffield FC Ladies last summer. So began the long wait to make their league debut at the higher level in FAWSL 2. As I mentioned in my Spring Series Preview could benefit the most by the Spring Series as it will give their players time to adapt to playing at a higher level, although I do feel the top FAWPL sides are on a par with certainly the sides in the lower half of FAWSL 2. Have a strong fan base and behind the scenes have been working hard off the pitch to ensure they would meet the FAWSL 2 licencing criteria. 

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC haven’t been quiet on the transfer front either strengthening their squad before the start of the Spring Series bringing in Chelsea Ladies trio, Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg and Alessia Russo. Sophie Perry returns to the club after a short spell with FAWSL 1 side Reading FC Women. Have also added highly experienced Irish International goalkeeper, Emma Byrne to their squad, with regular 1st team goalkeeper Faye Baker working her way back to fitness following injury. 

  Has been a while since I last visited The Hive, London Bees home ground 18 months or so. Sharing with Barnet FC it is very much a club in the heart of the community, practice pitches open to all age groups outside the main stadium. The stadium itself has undergone development now has a large seated stand behind one goal aswell as the one along the side of the pitch opposite the former bar & clubhouse which is now divided into the Tea Hut where you can purchase hot & cold drinks & snacks along side the new Pecking Order Restaurant. Tickets for a London Bees match are £4 for an adult but for £15 you can purchase a deluxe ticket which gets you a meal at the Pecking Order Restaurant too and when we talk about the ‘matchday experience’ I think it’s a good deal. Car parking is a £1 you purchase a token from the club shop which stocks a good range of London Bees merchandise, and I may well purchase a London Bees mug the next time I’m in town. 

  Onto the playing surface itself is a large pitch plenty of width, holding up fairly well as the season enters moves into mid-February. It might be called the Spring Series but it’s still winter was bitterly cold with a few flakes of snow in the air before kick-off.
  
  London Bees starting XI – Shayla Burgess, Anne Meiwald, Sophie Fogarty, Ellie Perkins, Amber Tullett, Emma Beckett, Jordan Littleboy, Ashleigh Goddard (C), Lucy Loomes, Paula Howells & Jo Wilson.
 subs- Amelia Houghton-Boyle, Becky Anderson, Laura-May Walkley, Mollie Burgess, Evie Clarke & Hana Lalani

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicky Ashton-Jones, Ellie Dorey, Laura Rafferty, Kirsty Barton, Charlotte Young, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
  subs – Bronwen Thomas, Hollie Olding, Lucy Somes, Natalie Taylor & Nina Wilson.

   On to the football, 4 of London Bees new signings were making their 1st start in FAWSL 2, Anne Meiwald, Lucy Loomes, Jordan Littleboy and Amber Tullett with Laura-May Walkley and Mollie Burgess on the bench. With Sophie Harris injured, Shayla Burgess was making her debut in goal for London Bees. Emma Byrne, Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg and Alessia Russo all start for Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. 

 It’s Brighton to get the 1st half of Spring Series football underway wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with London Bees lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with a black sash and horizontal piping, black shorts and socks. Brighton make a positive start the ball played back into Kirsty Barton in the centre of midfield, has Alessia Russo on the move on the right, the pass to her is perfect in behind the London Bees defence takes the ball on into the box cutting across the ball as she shoots it swerves away from the near post.

  Both sides testing the other out on the flanks early on Amber Tullett playing the ball out to Sophie Forgarty on the left up the line Jo Wilson picks it up looks to get in behind is tackled by Brighton’s Vicky Ashton-Jones the ball out for a throw. Brighton work the ball from right to left sending Ellie Dorey down the line, Anne Meiwald goes with her sliding in to deny the cross the ball out for the 1st corner of the match. Goes long across the six yard box no one picking the ball up. Jordan Littleboy puts in the challenge in the middle of the park winning the ball plays it out to Paula Howells on the left wing sends the ball forwards for Wilson up front a surging run to take the ball into the area, Ashton-Jones gets across to challenge shoulder to shoulder forces the striker away from goal tackling well getting the goal-kick. 

Jenna Legg on the ball for
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

 London Bees win a corner on the right side as Ashton-Jones puts Lucy Loomes cross behind. Taken short to captain Ashleigh Goddard the ball is played to Emma Beckett in position at the top of the area, is closed down quickly by the Brighton defence before she can find room to shoot possession is lost. Jenna Legg links up with Russo ahead of her on the right, Kate Natkiel provides the run in behind, Tullett tackling to put the ball out for a throw, the ball finds it’s way into the box, Tullett clears. Good build up play from both sides Brighton looking strong, runs from deep to pressure the London Bees back line.

  Loomes coming inside with the ball lays it forwards for Wilson, right of goal holds off Charlotte Young as she gets into the area, Emma Byrne comes racing out to close her down the striker takes the ball around her as she goes to ground looks to have an empty net to shoot at takes the shot, Legg saves Brighton getting back to throw herself at the ball clearing it off the line.  

Alessia Russo scorer of Brighton
& Hove Albion WFC’s 1st ever
FAWSL goal

 GOAL! 13 minutes played and the 1st ever Spring Series goal is scored. Brighton are on the attack Kirsty Barton in the centre of midfield plays the ball over the top for striker Amy Taylor to chase, Is won by Tullett in the area before she can reach it plays the ball out to Forgarty at left back, is caught on the ball as Russo moves quickly to close her down, taking the ball past her cuts in field driving into the area and sends a ferocious shot angling across the keeper into the top corner 0-1.

 Brighton are looking a real threat on the right Legg and Russo finding each other with their passes, both Taylor and Natkiel making positive runs, Russo taking the ball inside tries to pick out Taylor sending the ball in towards the penalty spot, London Bees goalkeeper Shayla Burgess gets to it 1st claiming the ball. Howells is left on the ground needing treatment after a coming together with Natkiel but is okay to continue. The game restarts the ball at the feet of Laura Rafferty as she brings it on through the middle Taylor breaking into space on the right the midfielder picks her out, Tullett gets across to mark shoulder to shoulder the Brighton attacker is fouled the free-kick awarded players forwards into the box, captain Sophie Perry plays towards the far post Dorey gets her head to the ball sending it high, before anyone can react plays is stopped by the assistant referee’s flag. 

 Natkiel with a threatening run carves open the London Bees defence on the left getting into the box pulls the trigger sending the ball goalwards, Burgess get down sharply diving to her left getting her gloves to the ball an excellent stop the ball the pace taken off the shot the ball rolls across the face of goal, Fogarty reacts quickest getting the ball launched clear before Russo can reach it. The goal has seen Brighton dominate, London Bees a little careless in possession giving the ball away allowing the visitors to come at them. 

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to stop London Bees Emma Beckett

  Beckett getting the ball from Goddard picks out Howells making a move to get forwards down the left flank taking the ball down to the line screws her cross behind goal. A rapid counter from Brighton the ball played up to Taylor central controls well picking out Russo looking to get in behind on the right, Forgarty recovers well to slide in and prevent the cross coming in winning the goal-kick off Taylor. Natkiel looks to play the ball in over the London Bees defence with Taylor after it, Burgess comes out sliding in gather the ball keeps hold of it as Taylor having thrown herself forwards in an attempt to get to the ball crashes into her. 

Brighton’s Kate Natkiel with London Bees, Emma Beckett

  A throw on the right side for London Bees 30 yards out from goal the ball is played inside to Littleboy ties up a strike, sending it goalwards is straight and Byrne who gathers cleanly. The game is stretched end to end a high tempo as you’d expect from a FAWSL fixture, both keepers come out to the edge of their areas to clear a threat as the ball is played over the top. Howells closes down Russo winning he ball plays a great diagonal ball up towards Wilson heading into the area, Ashton-Jones closes her down quickly conceding the corner. From the left the ball bounces across the six yard box picked up by Wilson far post the referee spots a handball Brighton have the free-kick.

London Bees, Jordan Littleboy

  Beckett wins the ball in midfield for London Bees sends it forwards for Wilson who switches play out to the right with Loomes on the move shoots from outside the box the ball flying towards the near post area, Byrne makes the save deflecting the ball behind for the corner kick. Coming in high near post Perry get’s her head on the ball nodding it behind for a 2nd corner, this one goes long no one can get onto the end of it as it flies across the six yard box. London Bees have regained some composure and playing some neat triangles are getting forwards better, Fogarty bringing the ball forwards on the left lifts a high ball in towards the area, Byrne calls for it claims well. 

  Into the last 10 minutes of the 1st half Brighton attack the ball played out to Dorey on the left side getting down the pitch squares the ball into the area a touch from a London Bees boot just about deflects the ball away from Taylor looking to get on the end of it, retrieving the ball Taylor attempts to turn back inside get a shot away, is closed down by 3 London Bees defenders the chance is gone. Howells gets a throw on the left as she tries to get forwards linking up with Fogarty the cross is is swept in towards the near post Wilson trying to get their is claimed well by Byrne.

  Russo surges forwards with the ball at her feet on the right her powerful cross into the box misses everyone going out to the opposite flank Natkiel regains possession some 30 yards out coming inside, strikes the ball goalwards is well held by Burgess in goal. 

Half-time London Bees 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC 

  A fast paced and entertaining 1st Brighton starting life in FAWSL 2 with a confident stride taking the game to London Bees early on clearing the ball off their own goal line then going up the other end to take the lead. Dominated for a spell after that before London Bees found their way back onto level a level footing chances created at both ends.
  A change for Brighton at the start of the 2nd half Bronwen Thomas coming on to replace Dorey on the left. London Bees to kick-off the 2nd half or they would if they had all their side on the pitch the midfield is missing, Littleboy and Goddard arrive the game kicks-off without Beckett as she emerges from the tunnel. Brighton win the ball early on get it out to Thomas on the left driving forwards her shot is saved by Burgess at her near post. Thomas influential in the opening minutes of the 2nd half looking to link up with Natkiel is tackled by Ellie Perkins inside the area the ball cleared. Thomas then wins a corner kick take short played back to the taker the cross is swept into the six yard box well claimed by Burgess.

Kate Natkiel on the attack for Brighton

  Howells over on the right for London Bees as she and Loomes switch sides early on  gets the ball down the line whipping a cross in towards the near post dropping forwards to take it Byrne spills the ball giving away the corner kick. Played in towards the near post is cleared. Howells is limping a bit picked up the injury 1st half is inside the D as London Bees win possession back on the left Goddard onto Fogarty the ball is squared across the face of the Brighton area into Howells, controls well and sends a curling shot narrowly over the crossbar. 

London Bees, Paula Howells with Brighton’s Jenna Legg
  London Bees make their 1st substitution, Littleboy the player coming off to be replaced by Hana Lalani in the middle. Perry plays the ball out from the back towards Natkiel moving left a powerful run taking her up the other end of the pitch wins the corner of Meiwald. The set-piece comes out to Rafferty top of the area, central her shot is charged down, London Bees look to counter, Legg wins the tackle on halfway. Russo with a good run down the right cuts the ball back for Taylor top of the area right of goal shoots sending the ball wide across the area.
 GOAL! 10 minutes played in the 2nd half and London Bees get themselves back on level terms. Meiwald wins the ball back in defence playing it into Lalani in the middle, picks out Howells free on the right side getting forwards ties up the cross as players make runs into the box the cross goes long dropping far side beyond the goal, Goddard has timed her run to perfection getting her head onto the ball to drive it back in across Byrne and into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

London Bees captain,
Ashleigh Goddard
 London Bees having equalised find that extra bit of pace that Brighton had in the 1st half after they took the lead. The tempo remains high, but it is freezing too so everyone might be running around to stay warm too. Loomes coming across to the right as London Bees build an attack plays the ball on for Howells as she looks to get into the area is stopped by a firm tackle form Perry. Brighton threaten to counter Natkiel with acres of space to run into on the left is prevented from doing so by Goddard as the London Bees captain comes running in sliding to tackle and put the ball out for a throw.
  Goddard on the ball as London Bees attack passes forwards into Loomes top of the D looks to divert the ball into the area with Wilson looking to get inside from her left, calls for handball as the ball is stopped from reaching her, the referee waves the plea’s away. Competitive tussles all over the pitch, the referee has a word with Rafferty and Goddard. London Bees are almost through on goal to take the lead as they ball put forwards early threatens to send Loomes clear, Byrne comes racing out of her area doesn’t get their as Loomes knocks the ball past her, Wilson goes after the ball running wide of goal picking it up on the right inside the six yard box goes for goal but by the time she has it the Brighton defence is back to block. 

London Bees, Jo Wilson with Brighton centre backs, Vicky Ashton-Jones & Charlotte Young
 Closing in on the final 15 minutes and London Bees make their final substitution bringing on England Youth International Evie Clarke for Howells who has had a fantastic game. Clarke has an early opportunity to take a shot as she recieves the ball from a throw inside the Brighton half on the right plays the ball to Loomes outside the area right of goal laying it back to Clarke as she moves forwards her strike is charged down by a defender. Brighton come forwards Barton on for Russo with Taylor to her right her cross into the area goes long, Thomas tries to keep it alive inside the box, can’t get a ball around Perkins the defender winning the ball back with a good tackle.
   Brighton make a change bringing on Lucy Somes for Taylor in the 75th minute. A break is on for London Bees Lalani playing the ball out to Loomes on the right sends an early cross into the box, takes a deflection on the way through to the near post, not enough to wrong foot Byrne who is across to lay claim to the ball. One end to the other Russo slips the ball in behind for Somes, Fogarty on her shoulder has support from her goalkeeper as Burgess comes racing out to slide in and gather the ball. Burgess is in the wars as she is clattered by Russo coming out to kick the ball clear as it is played down the wing. Is okay to continue. 
London Bees, Anne Meiwald

  Close from Wilson for London Bees as Loomes wins possession inside the Brighton half on the right passes infield into Lalani outside the box lays it across to Wilson left of the D sends her strike narrowly over the crossbar. Moments later Clarke has a shot from inside the six yard box right of goal that flies into the side netting after she controls a cross fizzed into her from the right wing. Somes controlling the ball 25 yards out back to goal turns an rolls the ball in for Russo to try and burst into the box, both Meiwald and Goddard are quickly n the attacker squeezing her off the ball. 

  The game could go either way neither is settling for the point Beckett plays a long diagonal ball into the area from the right looking to pick out Wilson, Byrne coming for the ball punches it clear of her area. Goddard finding space on the right squares her cross along the penalty spot, just beyond Clarke she manages to lay it back for Loomes who sends her 1st time shot wide of the goal. Loomes on the right manages to squeeze a cross in Clarke winning the corner as her attempt to help the ball on is blocked by Young. The corner is won by Brighton headed out of the area they threaten to break, again it’s Goddard who tackles to win the ball.
  Into injury time late chances for Brighton, a 50/50 challenge in the middle sees the ball squeezed forwards to Russo on the left drives forwards into the box closing in on goal is a clumsy looking challenge goes down as Burgess gets hold of the ball, cries for a penalty, nothing doing London Bees attempt to clear their box get the ball forwards lose it in the middle the ball placed into the run of Natkiel right 20 yards out, Burgess comes rushing out to close her down as she enters the box making an excellent save on the final whistle. 
  
Full time London Bees 1-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

  A dramatic opening game to the Spring Series watched by 703 supporters, the points shared London Bees might feel they could have taken all 3 late on Brighton the same a draw in the end both get a point on the board. Brighton leading the table with the alphabetical advantage. Played at a high tempo throughout, no sign of rustiness or nerves from Brighton right from the start the early goal no doubt adding the their confidence their new signings fitting in well, Russo scoring their 1st ever FAWSL goal. London Bees new signing also doing well Tullett and Meiwald at the back, the London Bees fans already knowing what Loomes is all about, Littleboy too doing well in midfield. Getting themselves back into the game levelling in the 2nd half.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

 Several contenders, both Lucy Loomes and Paula Howells with great performances on the flanks for London Bees, more often than not they were put through by Ashleigh Goddard, the London Bees captain with some fantastic tackles to break up Brighton’s attacks and scoring their 2nd half equaliser so the SWF Blog – Player of the Match goes to Ashleigh Goddard.

  Enjoyed my return to The Hive don’t think I’ll be leaving it so long next time.

Match Report – Aston Villa Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

The  featured match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday was from the FA Women’s Cup. The 3rd Round Proper where Cambridge United WFC flying high in FAWPL South East Division One were looking to continue their history making run taking on FAWSL 2 side Aston Villa Ladies as they enter the competition playing their 1st competitive match of the season.

Match Report – Aston Villa Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

 
  The action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup. The clubs from FAWSL 2 enter the competition at this stage and it’s Tamworth FC, FAWPL South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC head for one of the biggest games in their history as they take on Aston Villa Ladies.

  The 3rd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup is as far in the competition as Cambridge United WFC have ever gotten. Are enjoying a very good season to date leading the FAWPL South East Division One for much of the season, dropping to 2nd only because their game last weekend was postponed allowing Milton Keynes Dons Ladies to take over at the top. The attention today however is firmly on the FA Women’s Cup, already enjoying a fantastic run, making it through 4 rounds to get this far.

  Have been drawn out of the hat at home in all of their other FA Women’s Cup games, starting in 3rd Round Qualifying against Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies, who had dumped them out of the Cup only 12 months previously. Have grown as a side since then and a influx of new players to bolster the squad saw them win the game comfortably 3-0. Onto 4th Round Qualifying and Cambridge were taking on fellow FAWPL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies again they progressed with a 3-0 to make it to the 1st Round Proper. Were drawn at home to FAWPL Southern Division side, QPR Ladies in form they beat the side bottom of the league above them 3-1. Southampton Women’s FC were their opponents in the 2nd Round Proper a side on a similar rise to Cambridge but playing a league below Cambridge were too strong on the day winning 4-0. Now drawn away for the 1st time in the competition away to Aston Villa Ladies. Two leagues between the sides.

  For FAWSL 2 side, Aston Villa Ladies this is their 1st competitive match of the season as they prepare for the new one off Spring Series next weekend. Have reached the quarter finals in the previous 2 season’s in the FA Women’s Cup. Have a new home for this season moving from Sutton Coldfield up the M42 to The Lamb Ground home of Tamworth FC. The Conference North have a new state of the art 3G pitch a surface the Aston Villa Ladies players will be used to having played on an artificial surface back at Sutton Coldfield. The area around Tamworth has a large Villa following and the Ladies side are hoping optimistic more fans to come watch them in action. Have retained the services of much of last season’s squad and are a club willing to bring their youth players into the 1st team, Mollie Rouse doing well last season, Lucy Shepherd and Lucy Porter step up to the 1st team squad this season all all England Youth Internationals along with Alice Hassall who has joined the club having been with Notts County Ladies last season.

  The Lamb Ground is a nicely laid out stadium. A large carpark outside. Not too far from the town centre. The new 3G pitch looks excellent, surrounded by stands on all sides, one large seated stand on one side with the opposite side and one goal end offering covered terracing the other goal end terraced. A clubhouse and bar. Sutton Coldfield always did a good cheeseburger so I’m glad Aston Villa Ladies have found a new ground that serves up one just as good. A little chilly, but it was dry a pretty good day for football.

 Aston Villa Ladies starting XI – Chloe Beattie, Lucy Porter, Alice Hassall, Elisha N’Dow, Jade Richards, Chloe Jones, Maddy Cusack, Mollie Rouse, Amy West, Bethan Merrick (C) & Tash Baptiste.
 subs- Katy Moran, Alys Hinchcliffe, Lucy Shepherd, Kerri Welsh & Chloe Dale.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Chloe Bennett, Mollie Kmita, Laura Bright (C), Laura Baker, Dawn Mallett, Danielle Puddefoot, Becky Taylor, Laura Mills & Nicole Perschky.
 subs – Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Hollie Jardine, Paige Logie, Evie Gallop & Rosie Kmita.

  It’s Cambridge to get this FA Women’s Cup 3rd Round tie underway wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts with Aston Villa lined up opposite wearing claret shirts with sky blue sleeve and collar. white shorts and sky blue socks. Alice Hassall  starts for Aston Villa on the right side of defence. The ball is played out to Cambridge right back Emma Jenkins early on sent down the right with striker Nicole Perschky making a run into the channel, turns inside to evade the tackle from Jade Richards puts the ball into the area just inside the area Danielle Puddefoot back to goal lays the ball back to Dawn Mallet 20 yards out running onto the ball hits it hard, Maddy Cusack throws herself into the shot blocking the ball.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Danielle Puddefoot is fouled as she attempts to head the ball

  Aston Villa counter attack the ball played into captain, Bethan Merrick in the middle taking the ball forwards lays in on for Mollie Rouse ahead of her, she has Amy West bursting forwards from the left side to get into the area threads the ball into the box, West picks it up in her stride gets a shot away is gathered by Cambridge goalkeeper, Verity Crook at her near post. An open game from the start both sides looking to get the ball forwards with purpose. Laura Mills getting onto the ball down the right has 2 opportunities to put the ball into the Aston Villa box, both attempts cleared by Richards. 

   Hassall finds space on the right to get ahead of the attack, Chloe Bennett gets across to put the ball out for a throw before the cross can come in, the throw is taken quickly the ball pushed in field 20 yards out Rouse shoots from 25 yards out her strike sailing over the Cambridge crossbar. Mallett is fouled in the middle as she tried to get her head on an Aston Villa clearance. It’s Mallett to take the set-piece sends the ball up towards the area, the ball is headed out of the area, Mallett moves quickly to close the ball down 30 yards out winning it back gets a shot away pulls the low drive wide across the face of goal.

  Merrick is finding space up top getting past the midfield to attack the Cambridge defence, getting into the box wins Aston Villa the 1st corner of the match. The ball is played in high in towards the penalty spot, jumping Richards can’t get her head on the ball drops to Cusack behind her heads the ball down into the ground, Crook getting down sharply makes a good save, can’t gather the ball, her defence scramble it away before anyone from Aston Villa can follow up. No one is allowed any time on the ball, Aston Villa stretching play Elisha N’Dow and Richards both prepared to carry the ball out from the back into midfield. N’Dow send the ball up towards Rouse just outside the Cambridge box getting her head on the ball turns it goalwards, lacks power flies straight into Crook’s gloves. A busy opening 15 minutes.

  Mallett winning the ball in the middle has support from Becky Taylor she gets the ball wide to Mills on the right side taking it on turns inside to evade Lucy Porter’s challenge her ball into the area is cut out by the long leg of Richards as she lunges to stop it pushes the ball outside the area into the path of Laura Baker, meeting the ball on the half volley drills a hot in towards goal, Aston Villa goalkeeper Chloe Beattie is right behind it gets down to save the ball bouncing in front of her. 

Aston Villa Ladies, Chloe Jones

  GOAL! Cambridge give away a free kick inside the centre circle, Aston Villa send plenty of players up into the area the delivery is a good one from the set-piece the ball flighted in centrally, Chloe Jones top of the six yard box gets a glancing header on the ball taking it past Crook and into the back of the net beyond to score Aston Villa’s 1st competitive goal of the season 1-0.


  Aston Villa very nearly double their lead just 2 minutes later only to be denied by the offside flag. The build up is with Jones and Cusack in the middle, Merrick makes the forwards run moving left towards the area pulls the trigger hitting a swerving ball in low towards goal, Crook is moving across to cover the post, adjusts fantastically to throw her body in the opposite direction get a palm to the ball killing it’s momentum is stranded however as it rolls across the face of goal, Tash Baptiste following up blasts the ball into the empty net, the celebrations cut short by the officials flag.

  Certainly a competitive game, Cambridge will give as good as they get and Aston Villa aren’t shy. Cusack breaks up play in the middle on for Merrick, shoots from outside the box the effort straight at Crook the keeper holds on to the ball. Mallett is fouled by Cusack 35 yards out on the set-piece goes for goal puts her strike a metre over the bar. 

 

Bethan Merrick doubles Aston
Villa Ladies lead

GOAL! Closing in on half an hour played and Aston Villa double the lead Merrick has been all over the place in the 1st half so far and as Aston Villa build an attack on the left they win a throw the ball is played into Merrick turns and shoots from outside the area plenty of pace on the ball it is past Crook and into the far corner of the net 2-0.

  Doubling their lead Aston Villa have Cambridge on the back foot unhappy with a few decisions and going 2-0 down the home side press the advantage Cusack getting forwards is fouled on the right 30 yards out. Merrick plays the free-kick long aiming for the pack attacking the far post over everyone, Hassall at the back keeps the ball in play lay it back for a teammate at the edge of the box not a clear view of who the shot comes in is straight at Crook, the keeper down smartly dragging the ball into her body. 

 GOAL! Cambridge don’t keep Aston Villa at bay for long however as just 2 minutes after going 2 up the home side make it 3. Players are still up the pitch from the previous attack as Cambridge trying to get the ball up field lose it on the left side the ball is played on by West to Rouse down into the corner time to cross into the box, Mollie Kmita stretching as she attempts to intercept the ball can only knock it into the path of Cusack who left of goal smashes her shot back across the keeper and in score her 1st goal since 2014 to make it 3-0.

Aston Villa Ladies, Maddy Cusack

  Cambridge are visibly frustrated at going 3 goals down are working hard to get the ball back, Aston Villa with good movement on and off the ball are just a fraction ahead of their opponents evading tackles and moving the ball on quickly. Afters between Baptiste and Crook as the keeper is clattered after claiming a Cusack cross from the right threatening to dip under her crossbar. The referee breaks up the flashpoint and books Baptiste. Perschky has had little service put into her up front for Cambridge when the ball is played over the top giving her something to attack she is ahead of the Aston Villa defence only to find Beattie moving up to the edge of her area to clear the ball before she can reach it.

  Jones plays the ball into Merrick trough the middle helps the ball on laying it into the path of Baptiste moving across the D, left to right, latches onto the falling ball sending it angling in towards goal, Crook is well placed in her six yard box to get her body behind the ball. Another chance for Baptiste moments later as Aston Villa regain possession in the centre the ball played into her inside the D, works space for the shot drags her effort wide across the goal. Rouse moving out to the right with the ball has support from Hassall the ball is crossed into Baptiste just inside the area shoots puts the ball straight into Crook’s gloves.

 

Cambridge United WFC’s
Laura Baker

Cambridge are in danger of being overwhelmed late in the 1st half as Aston Villa keep coming forwards, Rouse sending the long range ball out to West on the left her cross is fired across the top of the area Baptiste latches onto it her shot blocked as Baker throws herself in front of her the ball racing back to Rouse who fires over from 25 yards out. Hassall is fouled as she brings the ball on down the right, Merrick plays the set-piece long towards the far post back pedalling Crook plucks the ball down keeping hold of it well as she falls under challenge from Richards. 

 5 minutes left in the 1st half Aston Villa have a corner on the right the ball is played short into Porter moving forwards unmarked from a defensive position takes the ball into the area taking on the shot drives the ball wide across the six yard box. Hassall surges down the right with the ball whips in a dangerous cross near post Cusack furthest forwards can’t connect, the ball cleared out of the area is won back rolled back across to Cusack outside the box she looks to send a shot wide of the keeper Crook dives to her right makes the save. 

  Cambridge launch a rare counter attack the ball Jenkins bringing the ball on sends it out to Perschky on the right side a clever turn to get room to cross the ball is angled high in towards goal, loops over Beattie dropping far post Taylor throwing herself at the ball can’t get anything on the ball to divert it into the net. Aston Villa are forced into a change late in the 1st half, Jones can’t continue Chloe Dale comes on to replace her. 

Half-time Aston Villa Ladies 3-0 Cambridge United WFC

  A comfortable 1st half for Aston Villa in the end after a positive start from Cambridge it looked like it was going to be an open contest both sides wanting to attack get the ball forwards. Taking the lead on the 17th minute Aston Villa went on to dominate the 1st half, runners from every position pulling Cambridge out of position their movement just a little sharper than their opponents. Crook with some good saves to keep the score down. Cambridge have scored 3 or more goals in all of their other previous FA Cup matches will need to score early 2nd half to get a chance to get back into the tie. 
  It’s Aston Villa to get the 2nd half underway, Merrick with a driving run through the middle over run the ball is gathered by Crook.
  GOAL! Just the start to the 2nd half the visitors needed as they pull a goal back inside the 1st half of the 2nd minute, Mallett heads Crook’s kick out from the back on, goes straight on for Perschky who controls and looks to play in Taylor making a forwards run on the left, capitalises on a mistake at the back from Aston Villa to latch onto a ball intended for the keeper nicks it past the onrushing Beattie and keeping her composure rolls the ball into the empty net beyond 3-1.
 
Becky Taylor scores early in the 2nd half for Cambridge United WFC
  Dale breaks up play for Aston Villa inside the Cambridge half plays the ball down the line for Hassall on the right, taking it on down the wing cuts the ball back for Rouse top of the area scooping the ball up off the ground her effort flies narrowly over the crossbar. N’Dow is allowed to travel with the ball from the back for Aston Villa crossing the ball into the Cambridge area the ball is intercepted by Bright, runs back to N’Dow who wins a corner. the ball swept into the six yard box Bright defends well up against Richards.
  The 1st corner of the match for Cambridge comes in the 2nd half as the ball is played into the area with Puddefoot getting forwards wins a corner off Cusack. From the right the ball is swung in centrally, Bright gets something on the ball far post knocking the ball down towards goal, Aston Villa have players on the line to clear the ball. Getting the ball forwards Cusack lays the ball out right to Hassall the cross is cut back from the byline in towards Baptiste making a near post run strikes the ball hard, Mollie Kmita makes the block. Richards turn to come forwards with the ball fires it into Baptiste inside the D back to goal lays it off for Rouse to strike from 25 yards out the shot straight at Crook who saves comfortably.
Cambridge United WFC captain, Laura Bright clears the ball
  GOAL! 57 minutes played Aston Villa have the ball on the left rolled on for West to take down the line squares the ball across the face of the six yard box, is behind Baptiste at the far post adjusts well to get a leg wrapped around the ball play it on for Rouse at the top of the box right of the D drills a low shot back across Crook and into the back of the net to restore Aston Villa’s 3 goal lead 4-1.
 
 Merrick brings the ball on from midfield riding a challenge passes the ball out to Hassell bombing forwards down the right cuts the ball in towards Baptiste at the near post shoots forcing a great save from Crook on the post turning the ball away for the corner. Played in towards Richards she is challenged inside the box manages to get the ball back to the corner taker who lifts the ball up towards the far post drops to Rouse controls on her chest far post before attempting to put the ball in at the post Crook gets across falls on the ball to save.
  GOAL! As in the 1st half having hit Cambridge with 2 quick goals, Aston Villa do it again 2nd half as 4 minutes after grabbing her 1st goal of the season Rouse gets her 2nd, the home side are attacking the ball is cleared up field by Cambridge only as far as Dale who headers the ball back towards Rouse ahead of her 25 yards out who shifts the ball to her right and hits a sweet strike into the top right corner, not much Crook can do about it as she throws herself at the ball 5-1.
 
Aston Villa Ladies, Mollie Rouse
  20 minutes gone in the 2nd half and Cambridge make their 1st substitution bringing off Mallett and sending on Rosie Kmita. Cambridge get a free-kick in the middle, Mollie Kmita to play the ball up towards the area, Bright is up from the back collects the ball outside the box left of the D rolls it across to Baker who plays the ball into the area for Puddefoot, has Rosie Kmita free to her left gets the ball into her, Kmita shoots, Beattie back on her line makes a comfortable save.
  West is played into space on the left by Rouse taking the ball down the wing fires a pinpoint cross into Baptiste at the far post six yards out gets her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, Crook denies her again going with the ball and down to claim it as it falls straight at her.
 

Alice Hassall scores on her
debut for Aston Villa Ladies

GOAL! Aston Villa keep coming and extend their lead in the 68th minute and it’s a debut goal for Hassall. Aston Villa bring the ball on down the left side West plays the ball into the box Cusack making a near post run squares the ball across the six box Baptiste overruns the ball as it races past her however Hassall is coming in from the right side meets the ball 1st time blasting it home to celebrate her 1st goal in claret and blue 6-1.

 
  Aston Villa make a change bringing off Baptiste, bringing on Katy Moran who dons the captains armband. 
 
 GOAL! Another debut goal follows a couple of minutes later for Aston Villa as one of their development players gets her 1st goal for the 1st team. With the majority of the attack Aston Villa are sending players forwards at will Moran puts the ball out to West linking up with Cusack she whips a fierce cross into the middle of the area, Dale is the furthest forwards gets hold of the ball controlling well before placing her shot wide of the keeper 7-1.
 
 Cambridge make their 2nd change with Paige Logie coming on for Puddefoot. Aston Villa have a corner on the right swung in towards the penalty spot N’Dow gets up for the header can’t direct it on target. Aston Villa make their final change Kerri Welsh coming on for Cusack. Cambridge make their 3rd change to Kayleigh-Anne Burt coming on for Mollie Kmita. Aston Villa keep pressing forwards, head coach Joe Hunt urging his players to keep up the tempo and threat as the game moves into the last 10 minutes. Merrick sends a high ball into the box from a free-kick on the right, both Richards and Welsh go for it neither connects. 
Laura Mills looking to get on the attack for Cambridge United WFC 
  West plays the ball inside to Welsh 25 yards out the striker goes for goal placing her shot over the crossbar. Mills is playing through the centre late on with Perschky wide right for Cambridge the final ball just won’t come off as Perschky lifts the ball into the area with Mills making the run across the centre backs, Beattie is out quickly to gather at the top of her area. Into injury time Cambridge break on the left Rosie Kmita attacking with the ball fires a cross into the box, is headed out to the right by Richards, Perschky picks up the ball wide drives a shot over the bar.
Full time Aston Villa Ladies 7-1 Cambridge United WFC

Full time and Aston Villa Ladies are through to the draw for the next round of the FA Women’s Cup. A clinical performance from a side who looked anything but rusty good movement on and off the ball sharper to the ball all over the pitch and put on a great show at their new home at Tamworth. For Cambridge it’s a brutal way to see their superb run in the FA Women’s Cup come to an end, history made and a financial boost too with 4 rounds won. Learnt a harsh lesson today, knew they were outplayed no shame in that it’s how you respond, you only test yourself by raising the bar, going strong in the league all to play for.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  Several contenders in the Aston Villa Ladies side today, the midfielders in particular, you can tell by the report I write alot of notes and perhaps it’s the bits I don’t include that add up sometimes, certainly in this case the SWF Blog Player of the Match is Maddy Cusack great energy shown throughout the match to break up attacks before they could even start and getting forwards into attacking positions when the opportunity presented itself, plus a goal to cap her performance.

Maddy Cusack winning the header
  The draw for the next round of the FA Women’s Cup will be made on Monday and will update this post once it is made, thanks to both clubs for their assistance today.

*UPDATE* The draw for the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Aston Villa Ladies playing a local derby match away to Coventry United Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division, who beat FAWSL 2 side Oxford United Women 2-0 in the 3rd Round. The tie scheduled to be played Sunday 19th February.

Match Report – Lowestoft Town Ladies v Denham United Ladies

The Supporting Women’s Football Blog ended the year with a trip to the Suffolk coast to watch Lowestoft Town Ladies take on Denham United Ladies in the FAWPL South East Division One. Bottom of the table with just 3 points on the board Lowestoft Town were playing their 1st game of 2017 having been affected like so many other sides by the awful January weather. Denham United Ladies in 7th place in the table in a good position to challenge for a top half finish, plenty of goals in this game…

Match Report – Lowestoft Town Ladies v Denham United Ladies

 
 Ended January with a trip to the Suffolk coast to watch Lowestoft Town Ladies play Denham United Ladies in FAWPL South East Division One. 

  Has been a postponement hit start to the New Year affecting alot of clubs, lack of game time, Lowestoft Town Ladies are playing their 1st game of 2017 having last played back on December 18th. Were one of the 40 postponed matches across the East last weekend. Not only in need of a game but also points as the club are currently bottom of the FAWPL South East Division One with just the one win in the league to date. Looks like a 3 way battle at the bottom between Lowestoft, Norwich City Ladies and Stevenage Ladies. Play Denham United Ladies home and away over the next 2 weekends before an away trip to Stevenage Ladies on Sun 12th February. Have seen the departure of striker Molly Hall going to America to play. Have brought in attacking player, Nettie Stillinger from Cambridge United WFC.

  Denham United Ladies are currently 7th in the FAWPL South East Division One table with 5 wins from the 13 league games they have played so far. One of the biggest all female clubs in the country are an established side in the league are capable of beating anyone else in the league on their day. With 5 of their next 6 league games against sides below them in the table have an opportunity to pick up points and not only pull well clear of the battle at the bottom but challenge for a top half finish. 

  The venue for today’s game Crown Meadow home of Lowestoft Town FC, the ladies side are one of a handful of sides in the FAWPL who share their ground with the men’s club. A large pitch has seen a fair bit of wear. A large seated stand on one side opposite the dugouts, a bar and clubhouse open behind the goal as you walk in through the turnstiles. Was another wet weekend across the region but not so bad as last time out. Overcast, cold and cloudy there were a few spots of rain around so with a covered stand to take advantage of I headed there. 

  Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Tiffany Forshaw, Ellie Froud, Abbie Everson, Cassie Craddock, Ciera Flatt, Gemma Moore, Nettie Stillinger & Hannah Waters (C).
  subs – Lauren Bullard, Broghan Scully & Jess Green.

  Denham United Ladies starting XI – Elizabeth Rose, Joanne Torr (C), Emma Spencer, Rachel Blackburn, Laura Holbrook, Chloe Jarman, Alissa Down, Aimee Durn, Natalie Murray, Elisha Allen & Annie Hewitt.
  subs – Ellen Wardlaw.

   Lowestoft get the match under way kicking off the 1st half wearing blue shirts, shorts and socks all with white trim. Nettie Stillinger starts on the left. Also making her 1st start for the club is Ciera Flatt in midfield. Denham lined up opposite wearing an all navy kit with a red and white band across the front of the shirts and red and white hooping on their socks. Are without a few 1st team regulars with just one substitute to call upon. Lowestoft look to get the ball out wide to Gemma Moore on the right from the start, Denham captain Joanne Torr winning the ball as she looks to knock it in behind her.

  The ball is sent long out to Elisha Allen in space on the right side for Denham making an attacking run to get into the Lowestoft area, can’t get her cross in. Denham pressure the ball on halfway keeping Lowestoft penned inside their own half in the early minutes, the visitors winning a free kick in the middle play it early to Natalie Murray moving right getting in behind plays the diagonal ball into the box, Lowestoft goalkeeper, Eilish Brogan makes the call and claims on the bounce before Allen can get to the ball coming through the middle. 

  Another free-kick for Denham on half-way the ball played up high towards the top of the area, Allen left side gets her head on the ball knocking it down into the area goes after it, Charnelle Riggall, Lowestoft’s left back goes with her prevents Allen getting the ball into a shooting position before winning the free-kick. A counter from Lowestoft the ball helped on by Abbie Everson on half-way for Ciera Flatt ahead of her, looks to slide the ball in behind the Denham back line for Stillinger cutting inside from the left, too straight the ball is gathered up by Denham goalkeeper, Elizabeth Rose. Up the other end Denham have another free-kick wide on the left inside the Lowestoft half, Alissa Down on the ball plays a pacey ball in towards goal, bouncing across the six yard box no one gets a touch, Brogan can see it run wide of her far post.

Lowestoft’s Cassie Craddock feels the full force of Alissa Down’s clearance

  Denham capitalise on a short goal kick winning the ball back 30 yards out, Aimee Durn getting involved in the thick of the action, having joined Denham from Watford Ladies Development U19s side. Durn central plays the short ball into Annie Hewitt ahead of her back to goal she lays it out to Allen breaking into the area from the left, gets a shot away as she is closed down shooting low near post, Brogan is down sharply making a good save.

  It’s a big pitch plenty of width available and both sides want to exploit it at every opportunity attacking early ball are often sent long with runners willing to go after the ball. Laura Holbrook gets on the ball and plays it out to Durn on the left for Denham linking up with Hewitt the cross is sent on high towards the near post with Allen making the run, can’t bring the ball down to get a shot away runs off her behind for the goal-kick. With Moore and Stillinger keeping the pitch wide Lowestoft captain, Hannah Waters attacking through the middle is released by Cassie Craddock 25 yards out drives for the Denham area looking to power her way into the box is closed down by 3 Denham players, Rachel Blackburn putting in the challenge to win the ball from her. 

Aimee Durn bringing the ball forwards for Denham United Ladies

  Emma Spencer having broken up a Lowestoft attack carries the ball out from the back on the right sends the pass long for Hewitt outside the box a clever turn as she brings the ball down plays it on for Murray moving into the area behind her, moving to the right looks to lift a cross to Allen far post, too close to Brogan the keeper is able to pluck it down out of the air. Murray is played in behind shortly afterwards by Holbrook on the right gets into the area into the six yard box tries to play the ball across goal again puts it to close to Brogan the Lowestoft keeper well placed to gather the ball. 

  Waters pressuring the ball high up the pitch on the left gets Lowestoft a throw the ball is played in field the cross fired along the top of the Denham area is collected by Moore in a central position, looks for an opening to shoot as she moves the ball to the right, Durn slides in to win the ball for the visitors doesn’t go far picked up by Flatt 25 yards out takes on the shot good pace on the ball is straight at Rose the keeper holding onto the shot comfortably. 

Ciera Flatt on the ball in midfield for Lowestoft

  Brogan is called into action up the other end as Denham press bodies forwards Chloe Jarman playing the ball on for Down the ball is sent on for Murray on the right, driving forwards takes it all the way  to the byline beside the area before cutting the cross back along the ground towards the top of the area with Hewitt meeting it inside the D her shot running low towards the far corner, Brogan throws herself to her right getting her glove on the ball pushing it wide for the corner kick. Lowestoft are almost caught out from a short corner for Denham the ball played up to Down top of the area left side sends the ball curling in towards goal, flies over Brogan, is headed off the line by Stillinger. 

Lowestoft’s Nettie Stillinger with Denham’s Chloe Jarman

  Denham break from the back as they win the ball from a Lowestoft free-kick the ball is played long up to Hewitt who passes it out to Allen attacking on the right, Lyndsey Adams cuts out her cross the ball runs back to Allen wins a corner this time another short one on the right the ball rolled into Down, Adams intercepts her ball into the area clearing it for a throw. The free-kicks in the middle are adding up Denham having most opportunities to play the ball up into the Lowestoft area. Down is on the set-piece in the middle to the right sends a high ball into the area, Murray central leaps the highest but can’t get anything on the ball. 

  Ellie Froud gets hold of the ball at the back for Lowestoft as Denham’s Hewitt looks to slide Allen through into the box, bringing it out from the ball plays a good ball out to Moore on the right taking on her marker and getting in behind turns into the box cutting the ball back from the byline looking for Waters, Blackburn coming across to defend the near post slides in to clear the ball.

  GOAL! 10 minutes left to play in the 1st half and the stalemate is broken. Bodies up field from the previous attack Lowestoft put pressure Denham’s midfield it’s Moore who closes the ball down on the right to take it in past the visitors defence playing the ball early into the area looking to pick out Waters, Spencer goes with the attacker challenging as the ball arrives at her feet, Waters does well staying on her feet and connecting with the ball helps it on past the keeper into the bottom corner of the net to see Lowestoft lead 1-0.

Lowestoft captain, Hannah Waters opens the scoring

  The goal sees Lowestoft step up the tempo closing down the ball inside the Denham half, Craddock linking up with Adams on the left side gets the ball on for Stillinger to go on a run down the left, attempting to get around Spencer to get into the area brings the full-back down conceding the free-kick. End to end in the closing 5 minutes of the 1st half both sides look to get their attacking players on the ball. Brogan comfortably claiming a couple of Denham crosses. 

  Up the other end as the 1st half moves into injury time, Lowestoft work the ball through the middle releasing Waters for a run at the Denham goal, is shoulder to shoulder with Blackburn as the pair race for the box, in goal Rose makes the decision to come early closing down the angle is a couple of yards inside her area as Waters gets a shot away going to ground Rose makes a great save with her legs to prevent the ball getting past her. Denham counter attack, the ball out to Durn attacking on the left carries it into the area, Riggall on her shoulder pressuring delays the shot the angle against her Dunn’s strike is held by Brogan at her near post. 

Half-time Lowestoft Town Ladies 1-0 Denham United Ladies
  Has been an open 1st half with both sides on the attack, Denham have created more opportunities up front, however they find themselves trailing 1-0 at the break with Waters giving Lowestoft the lead. Both goalkeepers having been called into action to make important saves. A narrow advantage all to play for 2nd half.
  Denham get the 2nd half underway, Holbrook with the early ball out to Allen on the right wing, the attacker is stopped in her tracks by the offside flag. Denham overload the right side of the pitch at the start of the 2nd half with Murray and Allen linking up playing a one two as they work the ball down the line, Allen’s cross going behind. 
Hannah Waters looking to control the ball inside the Denham box
  A tussle in the middle of the park, Flatt wins the ball plays it into Craddock who sends it long up into the box for Waters, controlling the ball on her chest inside the box, closely marked by Blackburn looks to turn get a shot away, not before Spencer comes across from the left to get her foot on the ball clear it for a throw on the right.
 

Gemma Moore scores to make it
2-0 to Lowestoft.

 GOAL! The perfect start to the 2nd half for Lowestoft as they double their lead inside the 1st 5 minutes the ball from the thrown in level with the top of the box on the right is played into Moore who turns off her marker to take it inside head down drives into the D before hitting a powerful shot that swerves away from the diving Rose and into the back of the net beyond 2-0.

 
  
   Everson closes the ball down quickly inside the opposition half, driving forwards gets room for a shot 25 yards out hits the ball on the run plays the ball straight into Rose in a central position inside her six yard box gathers cleanly. Lowestoft are getting drawn over to the right side as Murray looks to take players on get in behind, that is leaving Durn with plenty of space to run into on the left. Caught offside in an earlier attack, holds her run this time getting the ball from a long diagonal pass, looks to take the ball inside get it onto her right foot for a shot, is closed down by the Lowestoft defence before she can release the ball. 
Denham’s Aimee Durn with Lowestoft’s Abbie Everson
  Allen with possession of the ball on the right side moves forwards cutting the ball inside for Hewitt outside the box, looks to turn and shoot her effort from 20 yards out deflecting up off Tiffany Forshaw as she throws herself off her feet to make the block the ball looping behind for the corner kick on the right. The inswinging ball coming on high is headed goalwards past Brogan as she attempts to come for the ball, heading goalwards the ball is headed off the line by Lowestoft again, Riggall with the vital touch this time. 
  GOAL! The ball is cleared out of the area as Lowestoft look to get everyone out of their box, they are hit with a sucker punch the ball is won back in the middle by Denham and sent back over the top, both Hewitt and Allen area central in front of the D, the offside flag doesn’t go up as Hewitt picks up the ball and takes it into the box, picks her spot sending the ball low past Brogan into the bottom corner 2-1.
  Straight from the restart Lowestoft look to attack the ball is played over the top for Waters to chase through the middle, Rose is off her line and sliding in claims the ball inside her area before the striker can get there.
   GOAL! All action, no sooner have they pulled a goal back and stopped Lowestoft’s attack from the restart Denham have the ball in the back of the net at the other end to level it up. Launching a counter attack the ball is fired up field into Murray running onto the ball right side takes on the early shot 25 yards out lobbing the ball up over Brogan and into the back of the next to equalise 2-2.
 
  Two quick fire goals from Denham to level the scores 10 minutes after going 2-0 down sees them energised, the opposite for Lowestoft who dealt a double blow conceding 2 goals within a couple of minutes of each other. Play is drawn over to the right side again as Murray gets the ball from Down, pushing forwards delivers an high ball into the box coming central is a vital header by Riggall to put the ball out of play for the corner kick with Allen free behind her. The corner kick goes long is picked up by Holbrook outside the box left of the D shoots a vicious strike that is blocked by Riggall.
  GOAL! A complete turn around for Denham as the visitors take the lead in the match a counter attack from a Lowestoft free-kick the ball on halfway played up towards the top of the area is headed clear and played on with Murray on the move down the right side, plenty of pace gets in behind and closing in on the box takes the shot early sending her low drive racing past the keeper into the back of the net 2-3.
 
2 goals by Denham United Ladies
Natalie Murray see the visitors go
level then take the lead.
 
 
  Lowestoft make a substitution, Flatt is replaced by Broghan Scully in the midfield. Forshaw plays the ball up field controlled by Waters 30 yards out back to goal off her chest with Moore coming inside to receive the ball releases Stillinger making a run on the left side running into the box gets a shot away the strike racing along the ground across the six yard box and wide at the far post. Denham make a change Allen the player coming off, Ellen Wardlaw coming on for her 1st team debut. 
  Wardlaw is very nearly put through on goal moments after coming on as Hewitt squeezes the ball in over the top of the Lowestoft defence looking to run onto the ball inside the D, defender Froud makes a last ditch tackle lunging for the ball taking it away from Wardlaw and back to her keeper gather.
  GOAL! Denham enjoying a dominant spell extend their lead, it’s a goal out of nothing a moment of magic from Hewitt the ball fed into her feet 30 or so yards from goal isn’t closed down quickly enough sets her sights and shoots the ball flying over the keeper and into the goal beyond 2-4.
 
Annie Hewitt celebrating with her teammates
 
  15 minutes of the 2nd half left, Lowestoft make their 2nd change bringing off Craddock in the middle and sending on Lauren Bullard. Denham have their tails up are seeing more of the ball and keeping possession inside their opponents half. Forshaw heads a Denham cross clear of the area the ball helped on through the middle finds Moore moving inside from the right looks to play the diagonal pass into the area with Waters making the run to get into the area, Blackburn goes with her sliding in to put the ball behind for a corner on the right. Blackburn then defends the Lowestoft corner heading behind for a 2nd corner kick, this one comes to Everson moving towards the ball helps it on into the six yard box, Denham winning the scramble for the ball launch it clear.
  GOAL! The game is stretched as the action moves into the last 10 minutes Denham bring the ball on the pass finding Murray on the move on the right play drawn across to that side of the pitch again, Murray crosses early her looping ball falling into the Lowestoft six yard box, Durn has made it all the way there, controls the bouncing ball well and manages to squeeze it past Brogan on top of her to score and see Denham lead 2-5. 
 
  Soon after scoring Dunn is denied another opportunity to score for Denham by Moore inside the Lowestoft box as she comes inside from the left Moore dives in a risky challenge but gets the ball putting it behind for the corner. The ball comes to Wardlaw 20 yards out from Holbrook takes on the shot the ball played straight into Brogan the keeper down low to make the save. Wardlaw wins Denham a corner kick on the right side the ball is lifted in centrally pops out of Brogan’s gloves dropping down into the six yard box favourably for her defence to clear. Denham finish strongly Wardlaw seeing her shot from outside the box charged down by Froud as the final whistle blows and the visitors claim all 3 points with a 5-2 win.
Full time Lowestoft Town Ladies 2-5 Denham United Ladies
  An action filled game, both sides wanting to attack get the ball forwards use the big pitch. Going 2-0 up then conceding 2 quickfire goals 10 minutes later to level things up hit Lowestoft hard especially as they felt one was offside. Denham coming back well showing character after going 2-0 down to comeback and not only level but go on to win the game 5-2. The 2 sides meet in the reverse fixture next Sunday.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match
 
  A few contenders for the SWF Blog Player of the Match in the Denham side today but I’ve gone for Natalie Murray. Pace and power caused trouble out on the right all game scoring 2 goals and an assist for Dunn to score the 5th goal.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help today always appreciated.