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Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

The last match report of 2016 on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday, a trip to Plantation Park to watch Norwich City Ladies play Enfield Town Ladies.

Match Report- Norwich City Ladies v Enfield Town Ladies

 
 The last match of 2016 on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday, a game from the FAWPL South East Division One to end the year, staying in Norfolk a trip to Plantation Park to watch Norwich City Ladies at home to Enfield Town Ladies.

  Watched Norwich City Ladies in action at home a little over a month ago in the FA Women’s Cup winning a dramatic game with local rivals Lowestoft Town Ladies in a penalty shoot-out to reach the 1st Round Proper of the competition. Were to lose out at home to fellow FAWPL South East Division One side, AFC Wimbledon Ladies in the next round to exit the competition leaving the league as their sole objective going into the new year. In 10th place have just the 4 points on the board a point clear of the bottom 2, Stevenage Ladies and Lowestoft Town Ladies.

  Norwich City Ladies are playing catch up with the rest of the league however having played just the 6 league games before today’s game. Winning on the opening day of the season away to Lowestoft, have been integrating several new young players win their experienced squad members, losing their next 4 league games in a row including a 5-4 defeat to Actonians Ladies you might remember reading on the blog having been 4-1 down away from home only to come back to make it 4-4 in the 2nd half before eventually conceding a 5th goal to leave the capital with nothing. Their last league defeat away to Enfield Town Ladies back at the end of October 2-1. Got a point from their match last week welcoming 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies back to Plantation Park, Paige Shorten scoring in the last 10 minutes to make it 1-1 after the visitors had gone 1 up 10 minutes into the 2nd half. A busy 2017 looms for Norwich as they look to try and close the 8 point gap on the sides above them.

  Enfield Town Ladies are the team Norwich City Ladies are looking to catch in 9th place in the FAWPL South East Division One table. 13 points from 13 games played to date, have a new manager with Marc Nurse-Moore taking over the job having been at West Ham United Ladies previously. Takes charge of one of the divisions established sides that made history last season reaching their 1st ever National Cup Final in what was their 30th anniversary year. A side that is always capable of going on a run in the league only 5 points between Enfield in 9th and Gillingham FC Ladies in 5th tight in the middle of the table. Nurse-Moore despite having a good sized squad at his disposal has had several players unavailable through injury at the start of the season. A 0-0 draw at home last time out in the league against Stevenage Ladies.

  A new layout at Plantation Park on match days now, was easy before for supporters to wander through the main building past the changing rooms to get to the pitch, now instead you go around the Macron Store to the right entering through the turn-styles, access to the upstairs bar to the left, a large window provides a good overview of the pitch, can opt to watch the game from the comfort of indoors if you like, however I have a spot I like at Plantation park in the main stand I like so I headed there instead. The pitch is a good size has seen alot of action and looks fairly worn in places needs a rest over the festive period having seen alot of football and rain. Was a dry day today however the pitch drained well still and sunny if chilly.   

  Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Rebecca Russell, Erin Wilson, Bryony Rapley (C) Brooke Osborne, Millie Davies, Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Ellen Swift, Chelsea Garrett & Natasha Snelling.
  subs- Emily McErkerk, Teo Ilie & Kate Parsons. 

  Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Jodie Sanderson, Sheryce Slater, Danielle Smith, Claire Ford, Cally Browne, Lizzie Kent, Nuala McKevitt (C), Stavroulla Panayiotou, Danjeta Krasnici, Alena Beganovic & Anna Loftus.  
  subs – Vicky Lewis, Kally-Anna Westgarth & Lisa Kline.

  Shorten unavailable today for Norwich regular captain, Kate Parsons on the bench, Bryony Rapley wearing the captains armband today. Enfield were also without their regular captain, Regan Coleman with Nuala McKevitt wearing the armband today aswell as a bandage around her head to protect an injury that she had sustained earlier the season a severe cut to the head that kept her out for a few games. 

  It’s Norwich to kick-off the 1st half wearing green shirts with yellow vertical piping, yellow shorts with green socks with Enfield lined up opposite wearing white shirts, blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks. Enfield press the ball right from the start win possession send the ball out to the left with Danjeta Krasnici looking to take the ball down the line, wins a throw deep in Norwich territory the ball is worked on into the area headed away, Enfield get it back Lizzie Kent playing it out Stavroulla Panayiotou on the right her diagonal ball into the box is marshalled back to Norwich goalkeeper, Ellie Bird by Rapley at the back.

Norwich City Ladies, Rebecca Russell getting to the ball
ahead of Enfield Town Ladies, Danjeta Krasnici

  Enfield have Norwich pinned in their half at the start of the match, Panayiotou holds the ball up right wing receiving from a throw outside the box her ball crossed into the box headed away by Millie Davies for Norwich look to counter attack the ball played long for Brooke Osborne breaking on the left is tackled by Enfield’s, Danielle Smith level with the top of the area Norwich get the cross into the area, Enfield’s Claire Ford heading the ball out of the area for another throw on the right. Enfield get hold of the ball from the throw can’t get it away good closing down by Jodie Drake for Norwich plays the pass inside for Natasha Snelling 25 yards out looks to try and slide the ball into the box with Chelsea Garrett making a run to get in behind, Ford goes with her, doesn’t need to make the tackle as her goalkeeper, Jodie Sanderson coming forwards makes the call and gathers the ball into her gloves.

Enfield Town Ladies, Claire Ford with Norwich
City Ladies, Chelsea Garrett

  Up the other end Bird is quickly out of her goalmouth to the left corner of her area to slide in and smother the ball at the feet of Krasnici on the left as she breaks in behind after Loftus in the middle closes down the Norwich back line the ball deflecting off her out to Krasnici. Davies fouls Enfield’s, Alena Berganovic in front of the centre circle a free-kick given players go forwards lining up a top the area as Smith plays the ball forwards, McKevitt getting up looks to head the ball on into the area, runs out of play taking a touch of a Norwich body on the way through a corner is given. The ball sent in high to the near post is defended by Norwich, Kyla Love looks to break away down the left, Loftus gets back on her to tackle and win the ball the ball out for a throw on halfway. 

 Love gets hold of the ball and drives forwards down the left for Norwich, sends a low cross into the near post area, Snelling arriving at the top of the six yard box has not been picked up the ball into her looks to help it on across the keeper, runs across the face of goal narrowly wide at the far post. Is shaping up to be a good contest between the 2 sides Norwich give away a free-kick on half-way, Ford to play the ball long up towards the Norwich area, Kent jumps to try and get her head on the ball can’t reach it. The ball is kept down that end Krasnici getting a throw on the left the ball is lifted inside to Kent 25 yards out looks to head the ball on into the area, Bird coming gets hold of the ball before it can be helped on.

Danjeta Krasnici with Norwich’s Natasha Snelling

   Osborne finds herself in a central position as Norwich get the ball forwards 25 yards out wins possession back as Enfield try to clear from the back plays the pass out to Garrett wide left, hooks the ball back in field with Snelling right of the D outside the box picking it up and lifting it up into the box Love breaking far post the target coming in high tries to meet the ball on the volley inside the six yard box her touch sending the ball back square across the face of goal, Sanderson stepping off her goal line gets hold of the ball. Norwich attack on the right Osborne closing down the ball knocks it down the wing for Snelling peeling in behind closing on the byline turns a cross in towards the near post, Ellen Swift making the run can’t get her foot over the ball as McKevitt tracking her run turns the ball behind for the corner kick. Played into the area from the right Davies makes a run towards the ball gets a touch to help it on into the middle Rapley coming in doesn’t connect as she swings for the ball on the penalty spot runs wide to the left Norwich send it back in far post Ford heads clear for Enfield.

  Garrett tries to get ahead of Ford through the middle as Osborne plays the ball on with the outside of her boot inside the centre circle, the Enfield defender holding up the Norwich attacker allowing Sanderson time to come and gather the ball as it runs into the box. Enfield counter attack the ball played into McKevitt her pass long for Panayiotou on the right wing plays an early ball across the face of the Norwich area, 25 yards out running onto the ball Loftus hits a shot 1st time her effort curling away from goal. Midway through the 1st half Enfield press forwards the ball with Panayiotou on the right wing fires the ball into the area the ball flashing wide across goal. Love looks a threat on the left for Norwich breaking from her own half with the ball is stopped by Ford getting across and sliding in to take the ball. 

  Drake plays the ball out to Garrett on the left side, puts the ball inside for Swift outside the box who looks to turn in behind with her 1st touch, Cally Browne reading the move throws out a leg to take the ball away from her. End to end action Rebecca Russell gets to the ball ahead of Krasnici on the left as Enfield try to get her away down the wing the ball is rolled into Snelling moves the ball on quickly with Garrett trying to get in behind run into the box, up against Ford the defender winning the race for the ball. Berganovic is fed in behind the Norwich defence, Bird out of her goal sharply gets to the ball 1st. 

 

Danielle Smith clears the ball for
Enfield Town Ladies

Love brings the ball up the left for Norwich continues her run making for the box as she lays the ball inside for Snelling outside the box, back out to Garrett on the left is tackled by Sheryce Slater, the ball doesn’t go far Garrett retrieves plays the ball up into the box left side Love seeing it into her feet turns playing the ball into the near post with Swift looking to make the run, Sanderson is across her goal quickly to get down and claim the ball. 

  Snelling drives forwards through the middle with the ball for Norwich her pass is forwards for Swift drifting to the right, Browne gets back on her to put the ball out to the right, Osborne racing forwards gets hold of it pushing down the line her 1st attempt to play the ball in is charged down the ball out for a throw taken quickly, Osborne gets her 2nd cross into the Enfield six yard box flashing across goal hits McKevitt on the back, deflecting it straight at her goal, but also straight into Sanderson well placed in the middle.

  Slater throwing herself at the ball inside the box does just about enough far post to deny Garrett an attempt at goal as she makes the run inside having laid the ball into Snelling at the top of the area on the right as she brings the ball forwards for Norwich. Enfield attack through the middle the ball played into Loftus 30 yards out rolls it in field for Berganovic who looks to feed Panayiotou into the area from the right side, Love getting back tackles her inside the box coming away with the ball. Kent with the long pass out to the right sees Panayiotou attack down the line making for the byline wins Enfield a corner kick, a good delivery into the near post area the ball is dealt with by Rapley.

Norwich City Ladies, Kyla Love

  GOAL! Norwich launch a counter attack and take the lead late in the 1st half the ball with Love on the left side carries it along way is met by Slater the two coming together battling for control of the ball, Slater has it, Love doesn’t give up and getting back at her steals the ball off the defender and runs in behind reaching to top of the box, shoots firing the ball in over the keeper into the back of the net 1-0.

  Enfield press forwards as the 1st half moves into injury time, Panayiotou winning a corner on the right off Wilson. Bird comes through bodies to try and punch it clear near post knocking the ball up into the air is cleared only as far as Berganovic top of the area right of goal takes on the side a nick taking it behind for a 2nd corner kick, Ford gets up highest for it headers the ball down drops wide of the goal a 3rd corner is signalled try to go short with Loftus moving out to the left her ball into the area is cleared by Norwich.  


Half-time Norwich City Ladies 1-0 Enfield Town Ladies

  A narrow lead for Norwich at half-time as the two sides head for the changing rooms. A bright start from Enfield, Norwich coming back into the game a good contest so far both sides attacking with purpose looking to create chances in front of goal. The light starting to fade as the sides head out for the 2nd half, Enfield to get the 2nd half underway. The ball out to Panayiotou on the right, tackled by Wilson the ball out for a throw. Enfield with a strong start to the 2nd half keeping Norwich penned inside their own half, Love tries to get away on the left for the home side Ford coming across to slide in and stop her putting the ball out for the throw. Wilson throws the ball into Snelling the pair combining up the wing the ball swept high into the Enfield area is collected by Sanderson, Swift and Garrett running into the six yard box either side of her.
  A throw deep on the right for Enfield the ball launched into the area for McKevitt, Norwich clear it comes straight at Loftus 30 yards out looks to meet the ball on the volley her shot back in bouncing wide of the target. Enfield make an early change 2nd half with Krasnici coming off, Lisa Kline substituted on takes up a central attacking role with Berganovic moving out to the left side. The visitors continue their good start to the 2nd half pushing players forwards, Bird coming near post to claim a cross lifted in from the left. A rapid build up from Enfield with good control in the middle from Loftus turning off her marker and laying the ball on into the box with Berganovic on the move inside from the left looking to get onto the end of it, Bird with a great save comes sliding out to close her down blocks the shot at her feet the ball loose runs out of the area with McKevitt sensing a chance, Drake getting back to challenge as McKevitt pulls the trigger the ball runs wide of goal.
Anna Loftus scores to make it 1-1 for Enfield Town Ladies 
  GOAL! A little over 10 minutes of the 2nd half played and Enfield pull the scores level. Breaking up a Norwich move the ball is played up through the middle coming into Loftus 25 yards out beats Wilson to the ball taking it on hits the falling ball sending it up into the area looping over Bird to drop into the goal beyond 1-1.
 
Norwich City Ladies, Ellen Swift
  Norwich get on the attack from the restart the ball played out to the right Osborn getting forwards the early ball fired into Swift outside the box on the right, intends to let the ball run across her spin in behind, up against Ford the experienced centre back reading the move gets a foot on the ball to push it out of Swift’s path. A change for Norwich as they win a free-kick inside the Enfield half, Kate Parsons coming on for Russell at the back. The fee-kick in front of the circle is played up into the Enfield area, Browne clearing fall to Drake outside the box hits a shot back in bounces wide of goal. 
  A shot from Swift from distance 30 yards or more flies in towards goal smashes down off the cross bar bounces behind Sanderson who gets hold of the bouncing ball, long way from that goal so couldn’t tell, after the match the supporters watching from that end say it bounced over the line, the officials didn’t give it however as play continues. Enfield play the ball forwards push plenty of players forwards in the move the ball rolled into Kent outside the box right of the D, looks to curl the ball in towards the far post, takes a deflection off a Norwich shirt that sees the ball run wide for a corner kick.
  GOAL! 62 minutes into the match and Enfield capitalise on their great start to the 2nd half to take the lead from the corner kick, taken from the left a good delivery near post it’s McKevitt who gets up well to meet the ball with her head sending the ball down across the face of the Norwich goal, bouncing off the base of the far stick and into the back of the net 1-2.
 
Enfield Town Ladies captain, Nuala McKevitt
  Kline with the ball played into her 25 yards out turns off her marker heading towards the area looks to roll the ball on for Berganovic trying to get into the box from the left, is tackled by Rapley the ball out for throw. Berganovic with a strong run on the ball from the halfway line looks to sent Kline through into the area, Norwich defend Parsons getting the ball away for a throw left level with the top of the box. Berganovic takes the ball down and spinning in behind down the wing gets a cross into the area, Bird is able to collect unchallenged.
  The ball is played forwards for Loftus drifting out to the right side as Enfield attack outside the box holds it up as players get forwards rolls it back for McKevitt who pass it inside to Kent outside the area right side looks to curl a ball in towards goal her effort blocked rebounds back to her tries to lift the ball in near post bounces wide of the target. Kent setting up another attack for Enfield plays the ball long for Berganovic on the left, is tackled by Osborne the counter attack on the ball with Love she is fouled inside the Enfield half the free-kick awarded a pause in play as she receives treatment. The ball is played down the right wing the cross put into the box early fired long across the face of goal, Snelling getting into the six yard box does well to get her leg up and turn the ball in towards goal at the post, Sanderson is equal to it getting across to make the save conceding the corner.
Enfield Town Ladies
Jodie Sanderson
  The floodlights much needed come on as Love attacks down the left for Norwich, Slater with support from McKevitt stop her getting into the area. Swift gets onto the ball for Norwich on the right plays the ball into the box flying across the top of the six yard Garrett far post under challenge from Ford can’t direct her shot on target. A corner for Norwich on the right the ball is cleared near post runs out to Love just outside the box right of the D shoots her attempt racing wide of goal. Norwich make their 2nd change Emily McErkerk comes on for Davies.
Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling
  Enfield fail to close down Snelling as the Norwich attacker is given the ball 30 yards out, takes on the shot sends the ball racing in towards goal, Sanderson flat footed in the middle of her goal as the ball skips past her, hits the base of the post and spins across the face of goal, no runners following up Enfield clear and launch a counter attack Kent playing the ball up the middle into Loftus who turning gets her head down and runs at the Norwich defence a good run across her from Kline outside the area sees Loftus run clear shoots from the top of the box the ball flies over Bird smashes down off the crossbar into the six yard box a scramble for the ball sees it cleared behind for a corner.
  Moments after hitting the crossbar, Loftus sees another shot denied by the woodwork. Players forwards pressing Norwich back the home side clear the ball from their area falls to Kent right side 25 yards out headers the ball down inside to Loftus who curls a shot in beating the diving Bird throwing herself to the right the ball hitting the base of the post beyond before being cleared. Another day and Loftus would be celebrating a hat-trick. Loftus keeps the ball in play on the right 30 yard from goal spinning in behind takes the ball down the line before turning inside gets into the box and fires a shot over the bar.
  Snelling is clipped the foul conceded in a central position 25 yards from goal. Parsons on the set-piece looks to go for goal getting the ball around the wall bounces inside the six yard box straight into Sanderson’s gloves. Not much time left for Norwich to find a goal to level the scores 3 minutes of normal time to play as Enfield go on the attack Kline coming away with the ball in the middle charges towards the box sends the ball long towards the far post, Rapley getting the ball away before it can be met by Berganovic running in.
  GOAL! Last minute of the game Norwich counter attack getting the ball forwards into Garrett on the right wing running clear heads for the area, Sanderson comes racing out to close her down Garrett gets the ball past her and it rolls on towards goal kissing the base of the far post before trickling over the line to see Norwich level 2-2.
 
Chelsea Garrett, pictured with Enfield’s Lizzie Kent with a
late equaliser for Norwich City Ladies.
  Breaks for injuries 2nd half will see several minutes of stoppage time played, both sides not content with the point push on looking for another goal, Enfield have the ball fed into Berganovic 25 yards outside the box a snap shot pulls the ball wide of the Norwich goal. Norwich attack up the other end, Love played onto the ball on the left spins in behind Slater tries to put the ball into the path of Garrett inside the box, Ford getting back on her her tackle deny the scoring opportunity late on. Enfield bring on Vicky Lewis in place of Browne. Loftus gets onto the ball right side for Enfield shoots early putting the ball straight at the keeper, Norwich loose possession trying to play the ball out from the back Loftus nipping in to win the ball 25 yards out lifts a high ball into the box straight at Bird the keeper is able to bring it down safely.
  
Full-time Norwich City Ladies 2-2 Enfield Town Ladies

 Full-time and the match ends with a draw the points shared Norwich coming back from behind for the 2nd successive home match to earn a draw. A good contest between the two sides, Enfield doing well at the start of the 2nd half to get back on level terms then take the lead, could have won it denied by the woodwork twice. Norwich has two efforts come off the woodwork too and levelling late on may feel they could have nicked the win as well. 
  My thanks to both clubs today for their help with the teams. A good match to end 2016, 102 for the year that will do. Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year, see you by a pitch somewhere in 2017.

Match Report – Kings Lynn Town Ladies v North Walsham Angels Ladies

This weekends football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from Norfolk a top of the table clash in Division One with 2nd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies newly promoted this season travelling to play 3rd placed Kings Lynn Town Ladies who were unbeaten winning all of their league matches since an opening day defeat.

Match Report – Kings Lynn Town Ladies v North Walsham Angels Ladies

 
   A top of the table clash from Norfolk this Sunday a trip west along the A47 to watch the Women’s Division One encounter between 3rd placed Kings Lynn Town Ladies taking on 2nd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies.

  Both sides were formed in the 2014/15 season and have both enjoyed 2 progressive seasons since. Kings Lynn Town Ladies are now affiliated with the men’s side renamed at the start of the season having been Lynn Ladies previously playing their football in West Lynn, earning promotion to Division One in their debut season a 5th place finish in the top league in Norfolk last season. The union with Kings Lynn Town FC has seen them strengthen over the close season with a good pre-season including a 2-2 draw with a West Ham United Ladies Development side at The Walks where they will be playing their County Cup matches this season. Suffered a heavy defeat on the opening day of the season away to current Division One pace setters Thorpe United Ladies. Have recovered since going on a 5 match winning run to sit in 3rd place in the table one of those wins away from home against today’s opponents a 4-2 win at the end of September. 

  One of only two defeats in the league for North Walsham Angels Ladies so far this season since earning promotion from Division Two last season. A young side hungry for success, have started the season well. 18 points from 8 played to sit 3 points behind leaders Thorpe United Ladies the other side to have beaten them this season edging North Walsham out in a 4-3 win. Are the leagues top scorers having netted 46 goals from their opening 8 games with an average of 5.75 goals per match. Sisters Luci and Hope Middleton both scoring plenty of goals for the side.

  Both sides winning by double figure scorelines last Sunday to collect the 3 points, not expecting a 0-0 today. The venue for today’s match the Riverlane Playing Fields in Gaywood in Kings Lynn a multi-sports facility 2 football pitches plus other amenities. Alot of rain around yesterday however with a dry but overcast Sunday to follow the game was on plus an opportunity to squeeze in the last round of Xmas shopping.

  Kings Lynn Town Ladies starting XI – Cristina Viva Artacho, Vikki Budulyte, Antonia Flack, Millie Wilson, Albany Hodgson, Taylor Sarchet, Bethan Jones, Natalie Bunton, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C) & Josie Turner.
  subs – Emma Woods, Lisa Wilson & Oksana Imanalijeva. 

  North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI – Cyan Fulbrook, Sian Wager (C), Rosie Filby, Bethany Childs, Hannah Roe, Alicia lacey, Lauren Yarham, Rachel Bussey, Hope Middleton, Alice Wardle & Luci Middleton.
  subs – Emily Farmer & Robyn Johnson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The pitch for today’s game is fairly short, North Walsham have kick-off 1st half wearing white shirts with black shorts and black and white hooped socks with Kings Lynn lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue shorts and socks. The visitors go on the attack from the off Rachel Bussey into Lauren Yarham through the middle looks to play the ball over the top through the middle of the Kings Lynn defence with Luci Middleton making the run across the centre backs to get in behind, Albany Hodgson playing at centre back for Kings Lynn gets her head on the ball to clear the threat.
   Luci Middleton on the ball down the right forces the throw deep in the Kings Lynn half the ball is cleared by Taylor Sarchet falls for North Walsham’s Alicia Lacey a summer signing from Aylsham FC Ladies sends the ball in towards the top of the area with Yarham looking to run across the D, a meaty challenge from Hodgson gets the ball away upending Yarham in the process play continues, a counter attack from Kings Lynn the ball played upfield helped on by captain Shelley Woods playing it over the top for Josie Turner to chase into the area forces North Walsham into conceding the 1st corner of the match.
  Minutes into the game and it clear it’s going to be played at a fast tempo the Kings Lynn corner comes to nothing the ball back with North Walsham is soon up the other end a chance out of nothing the ball running long into the box goalkeeper Christina Viva Artacho sliding in to gather the ball looks comfortable with Luci Middleton closing in, the ball is split loose beyond the keeper Middleton gets after it right of the goal leaning back as she tries to place the ball into an empty net doen’t get a good connection with the ball falls wide into the side netting.
  Sarchet plays the ball up the pitch for Turner out on the left making the run forwards has Woods making a run inside her plays the ball into her feet takes on the shot from the top of the box the ball racing wide across the face of goal. On the opposite flank Becky Russell comes on with the ball looking to drive into the box, North Walsham’s Bethany Childs gets across her puts the ball out for the corner. The set-piece is played long beyond the far post Turner heads the ball down towards goal, keeper Cyan Fulbrook stops it but doesn’t collect running loose inside the six yard box, Bethan Jones latches onto the ball tries to hit it goalwards, is deflected wide out to Turner still at far post sends her shot wide of the post.
Kings Lynn Town Ladies, Taylor Sarchet
  Kings Lynn continue to press forwards getting width the ball played on for Natalie Bunton on the right whips in an early cross with Turner the target in a central position inside the box looks to see the ball across her hit it on the turn, closely marked by North Walsham’s Hannah Roe the defender reads it gets her foot onto the falling ball pushes it clear of the area. Jones plays the ball on for Vikki Budulyte getting forwards from right back on the right sends the ball up the wing for Bunton driving on with the ball sends a diagonal ball in towards to near post Turner sliding in to reach it is beaten by the North Walsham defence.
  A few tempers are getting frayed out there on the field players from both sides unhappy with challenges and some afters that aren’t needed nor being picked up by the referee. Sarchet getting hold of the ball in the middle of the park for Kings Lynn plays it forwards the long pass picking out Turner on the moves through the centre 20 yards out goes to shoot early pulls the ball wide of the North Walsham goal. 
  GOAL! 12 minutes on the clock and Kings Lynn having started the game well get themselves into the lead. Sarchet and Jones get the ball up the pitch out with Woods on the left side lines up a shot from distance 30 yards out sends the ball in towards goal looping up and dropping, Fulbrook gets her gloves up to the ball but can’t keep it out as it drops over the line to make it 1-0.
 
  Fulbrook reacts quickly as Kings Lynn get back on the ball from the restart play it long for Bunton on the move to get into the box from the right side, the North Walsham keeper winning the race to the ball sliding in to clear with her shins. The afters are continuing still nothing is being done, the crowd is starting to get involved too. Russell pushing up on the right with the ball sends in a low cross along the six yard box, no one coming in through the middle Woods from the left is 1st to it far post a tame shot however is easily gathered by Fulbrook. 
A competitive encounter all over the park
  A good through ball by Lacey releases Hope Middleton on the left is in behind the Kings Lynn defence carries the ball on into the box looking to come inside to shoot, Budulyte gets back on her sliding in does enough to prevent Middleton shooting, retaining possession turns back out of the area moving across the D gets a shot away the ball charged down by the Kings Lynn defence. Good pressing from Luci Middleton on the right side squares the ball into the middle with Yarham quickest to the ball, turns inside hits a shot from outside the box races wide across the goal out for a goal kick.
  GOAL! 20 minutes into a busy 1st half and Kings Lynn double their lead have players forwards from a previous attack the ball is won in the middle played out to the left side Turner and Woods are out on that side the ball is fired low into the area Sarchet has it at her feet back to goal at the near post lays it back out of the area directly to Russell who has her leg pulled back ready to recieve the ball hits the shot in towards goal skiping along the ground sneaks inside the post Fulbrook diving in vain 2-0.
 
  North Walsham are rattled losing a bit of composure feel they aren’t getting the decisions. So to however do Kings Lynn, players on both sides needing to calm down, not getting phyiscal hands on mind, both sides just feeling something needs to be done and isn’t and the person being asked the question is the referee. Yarham is putting alot into the midfield contest ingoring a kick on the knee continues to make a run through the middle almost releases Luci Middleton in behind only for her to be stopped by the offside flag.
 
  GOAL! North Walsham pull a goal back 5 minutes after going 2-0 down pushing forwards the ball is sent forwards cleared back out to the middle, Lacey picks it up gets a lot of power on the ball as she drills it through the middle with Luci Middleton the target in between the Kings Lynn defence lined up along the top of the box, a defender lunges sticking out a leg to try and cut out the ball instead it deflects up off the leg into the area, Middleton breaking in behind is after it running right of goal sends her shot past the keeper into the back of the net 2-1.
 
North Walsham Angels Ladies
Luci Middleton
 
  Kings Lynn make a change, Oksana Imanalijeva coming on for Bunton on the right. Is involved in the action straight away as Kings Lynn are awarded a free kick on the right inside the North Walsham half the ball played up into the box by Hodgson is headed out of the area by Lacey, comes back to Russell outside the box on th right plays it inside to Imamalijeva inside the D stabs a 1st time shot in towards goal the ball running along the ground straight into Fulbrook who sees the ball up into her gloves.
  A throw for North Walsham deep on the right Wager playing the ball into Luci Middleton lays it back for Alice Wardle who sends an good cross into the box, Lacey arriving near post lifts a leg six yards out knocks the ball down into the ground Millie Wilson throwing herself at it takes the pace of the ball as it runs on for Vivas Artacho to save beyond. Up the other end Fulbrook saves at the near post as Woods drives in a shot from the left the ball not held by the keeper rebounds into the path of Turner, she is quickly closed down by Childs under challenge can’t get her shot on target.
Alice Wardle on the ball for
North Walsham Angels Ladies
  A double switch for Kings Lynn, Turner and Flack off, Emma Woods and Lisa Wilson on the switch sees Russell take up the central attacking role. Jones on for Shelley Woods on the left side rolls the ball on for Russell drifting that side shoots from the top of the box her low drove saved by Fulbrook diving at her near post pushing the ball behind for a corner on the left. Is a vicious ball flashed in across the six yard box bouncing at the far post Imanalijeva lunging at it can’t connect to turn it in. 
  Now anyone reading one of my match reports has probably guessed I write extensive notes, sometimes I preempt whether there is going to be a card shown write it in the notes, should/could have been 6 in the game so far and 2 of those would have equalled a red, that said no cards have been shown yet despite tempers continuing to flare and some poor challenges being shown, no doubt it has affected North Walsham more than Kings Lynn but both sides aggrieved the referee opting to have a word with the supporters instead.
  GOAL! Right no the stroke of half-time Kings Lynn get the ball up the other end and score a 3rd goal. The ball is fed up through the middle into Russell making a run to get into the box left side of the goal, has Childs in front of her with Fulbrook coming off her line a mix up the two come together fail to clear the ball runs past them, Russell after it latches onto the ball and lifts it into the empty net beyond 3-1.
Half-time Kings Lynn Town Ladies 3-1 North Walsham Angels Ladies

Plenty happening in that 1st 45 minutes on and off the ball a committed contest both sides using the short pitch to full affect the play has been fast paced the tempo high little time for anyone on the ball, everywhere on the pitch players have been quick to close down, Kings Lynn starting the better getting into the lead, both sides getting under the others skins the home side dealing with it better ending the half 3-1 in front as both teams coaches wander onto the pitch to have a word with the referee at half time.
 

Kings Lynn Town Ladies, Bethan Jones

A change in the sky at the start of the 2nd half the clouds breaking and the low setting sun blazing the sky amber behind one of the goals, which North Walsham with have at their backs 2nd half as they look to try and compose themselves and get back into the game. The visitors making a change at half-time Hope Middleton off, Emily Farmer on. Kings Lynn kicking off the 2nd half press forwards the ball with Russell on the right looks to play Shelley Woods in as she makes a run in behind into the box is marked well by Wager the North Walsham captain who clears the ball back out to the right the ball is played back into the top of the area Woods seeing it into her body turns to strike the ball goalwards doesn’t make a clean connection with the ball rolls safely into Fulbrook covering her near post.

  Getting the ball forwards on the right side of the pitch North Walsham win themselves a corner kick, the ball is fired in near post Yarham making a run towards the ball flicks it on falls to Wardle top of the area, smashes the ball goalwards her strike charged down the ball picked up from deep a shot is sent back in well over the goal. Early possession inside the Kings Lynn half from North Walsham, Rosie Filby winning the ball playing it into Lacey who passes it out to the left winning a corner players go forwards the ball sent in near post both Luci Middleton and Lacey attack it, Lacey with the header puts the ball behind for a goal-kick.
Kings Lynn Town Ladies, Emma Woods with
North Walsham Angels Ladies, Lauren Yarham
  Lacey gets forwards from the middle as Luci Middleton picks the ball up in the centre of the Kings Lynn half looks to pass the ball into Lacey’s path as she looks to break into the box, Wilson does well at the back for Kings Lynn getting across to intercept the ball. Wardle is brought down 30 yards from goal in a central position a free-kick for North Walsham. Roe is over the ball takes on the strike getting the ball up and over the players lined up across the top of the area is straight at Vivas Artacho who claims hold of the ball.
  GOAL! 10 minutes into the 2nd half and North Walsham’s positive start to the 2nd half sees them pull a goal back. Breaking from the back the ball is played up the park quickly into the middle out to the left the early cross played long into the box stretching the Kings Lynn defence, Lacey making the run to get into the box through the middle arrives at the penalty spot throwing herself at the ball turns it past Vivas Artacho into the back of the net 3-2.
 
North Walsham Angels Ladies,
Alicia Lacey
  
 Kings Lynn attack the ball is with Wilson on the left half way lifts the ball over the top of the North Walsham defence for Shelley Woods to chase taking the ball down the line works her way inside getting into the box evading a challenge before shooting aiming the ball in towards the near post the shot lacking power Fulbrook gas it covered near post. Russell taking the ball on out to the right side gets the pass in behind down the wing for Imanalijeva taking the ball into the corner looks to cross, Filby gets back on her to tackle put the ball out for a throw. Cleared back to the halfway line Kings Lynn are awarded a free kick, Hodgson puts the ball up into the D, Russell looking to bring the ball down can’t turn into her shot before Farmer gets it away from danger. 
   North Walsham make a change bringing Roe off and putting Hope Middleton back on as they look for an equalising goal. Lacey plays the ball up to Hope Middleton on the right side takes the ball inside evading a challenge sends the ball in towards Wardle making a far post run, Budulyte has tracked her and does well prevent her reaching the ball. Kings Lynn make a change sending Turner back on up front with Wilson coming off at the back with 20 minutes of the game left the lead still 3-2.
 
  A card is shown with Hope Middleton yellow carded for a push in the back. The free kick in the middle of the park comes to nothing the ball won by North Walsham played long up the left with Filby getting forwards for the visitors driving inside towards the box manages to squeeze a shot away flying past the advancing Vivas Artacho into the side netting taking a deflection on the way for a corner kick the ball cleared near post by Kings Lynn. 
  Sarchet gets hold of the ball after coming out the better from a full on 50/50 challenge taking the ball on through the middle passes the ball on for Turner making a run into the box Fulbrook comes racing off her line to close her down Turner gets the ball past her but also wide of the goal beyond. It’s mid-December the light is beginning to fade quickly the sun falling below the horizon with 10 minutes of the game left to play. Luci Middleton is left a little dizzy on the floor as she gets a heavy touch on the ball trying to head it away.
  Yarham picks up the ball in the middle plays it into Hope Middleton all of 30 yards out flicks the ball up and hits it on the turn bouncing in the box drifting away from goal Viva Artacho gathers. Launches it up field helped on one touch runs forwards into Turner breaking through the middle meeting it top of the box spins and pulls her shot away from goal. 5 minutes of the game left, Luci Middleton has dropped into the defence for North Walsham in the latter stages takes another knock as she and Woods challenge for the ball a painful blow to the jaw on landing. 
  GOAL! Into the latter stages of the game and with the play stretched North Walsham taking a few risks going forwards Kings Lynn having ridden out the pressure restore their 2 goal cushion. Counter attacking the ball played out to the right Imanalijeva and Russell link up before the ball is crossed into the box Turner making the run near side latching onto the ball and sending it across the keeper into the bottom corner 4-2.
 
  Into injury time and possession is with Kings Lynn Russell holds the ball up on the left side off a throw in before turning and lifting it over the top into the box for Shelley Woods her strike is straight at Fulbrook who gets her gloves around the ball. Kings Lynn with a free-kick wide on the right inside the North Walsham half Jones plays the ball long into the box both Russell then Turner in front of her can’t get a touch to turn it home the flag up however as Turner strays offside. Doesn’t matter however as the final whistle blows at Kings Lynn Town Ladies win the 3 points.
Full time Kings Lynn Town Ladies 4-2 North Walsham Angels Ladies

 A good result for Kings Lynn Town Ladies moving level on points with North Walsham with 18, have 2 matches in hand. Both 3 points of leaders Thorpe United Ladies. A strong 1st half display, dealt with North Walsham well as they pressed 2nd half after what was a difficult 1st half. Not the best game you’ll see by any stretch and it’s a pity as both sides can play better, got under each others skins today. A learning curve. Both Kings Lynn Town Ladies and North Walsham Angels Ladies are a rising force in Women’s football in Norfolk and ending 2016 well can only get better in 2017.
   My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams always appreciated, see you in the New Year.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Queens Park Rangers Ladies

Two milestones this weekend for myself and my other women’s football site the Supporting Women’s Football Blog. Not only was it my 100th game of 2016 it also happened to be the 250th match report I have written no the blog since it began a little over 3 years ago. The game covered for that report was from the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup a trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch FAWPL South East Division One leaders, Cambridge United WFC take on higher league opponents, Queens Park Rangers Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division currently bottom without a win in the league looked to be an exciting tie on paper and the potential for an upset. 

250th Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Queens Park Rangers Ladies

 
  I’m celebrating two milestones on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday, not only is this my 100th women’s football match of 2016 it is also the 250th match report written since the blog began in October 2013. Time has flown and I’m excited about writing this one as I have been since the 1st.

 Anyway enough about that and onto the football a trip over to Mildenhall Town FC this Sunday to watch Cambridge United WFC take on higher league opposition, Queens Park Rangers Ladies in the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup. 

  A league may separate the sides but on paper they are next to each other in the women’s football pyramid with Queens Park Rangers Ladies having had a difficult start to the season a new look to the side with alot of players leaving the club during and at the end of last season. Without a win in the league picked up their 2nd point of the season last Sunday against West Ham United Ladies in a 1-1 draw. Cup competitions offering a distraction from the league have won previously to advance in the FAWPL Plate before exiting in the 3rd Round. Like all the FAWPL Northern and Southern Division sides enter the FA Women’s Cup in the 1st Round Proper.

  Cambridge United WFC also have several new faces in their side at the beginning of the season, have had a fantastic start in the FAWPL South East Division One recovering from an opening day defeat to go on an 8 game winning streak to go top of the table. That run came to an end last Sunday away to Gillingham FC Ladies, however Cambridge remain top of the league and are looking to recover with a win in the FA Women’s Cup an achieve history by making the 2nd Round Proper. Entered the FA Women’s Cup in 3rd Round Qualifying beating ERWFL Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies at home. Were at Mildenhall Town FC in 4th Round Qualifying too against fellow FAWPL South East Division One side, Stevenage Ladies winning the match again 3-0 to reach the 1st Round Proper.

  The venue on a cold December day, Mildenhall Town FC, a nice ground an easy walk from the town centre, with a good sized clubhouse with bar and refreshments available. A big supermarket too nearby if like me you thought it was a 1pm kick-off and not 2pm as the club actually advertised, got a couple more Christmas presents sorted so a useful detour. A sloping pitch still in great condition despite hosting alot of games, Mildenhall Town like Cambridge United WFC top of their league.

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

  Queens Park Rangers starting XI – Callie Neat, Micaela Lopes, Marika Engels, Jean Sseninde, Ashleigh Harte, Jess Treharne, Elly Maggs (C), Hayley Sloan, Jo Blodgett, Juliette Denny & Dominika Netschova. 
  subs – Rachel Gwilliam & Liz O’Callaghan.

  A minutes silence before the match as was the case up and down the country everyone pausing to remember and honour the victims of the tragic plane crash in Colombia that saw such a tragic loss of life Brazilian club Chapeocense losing 19 players along with their coaching staff and journalists on their way to play the biggest game in the clubs history.  

  A switch of ends at before the start of the game with QPR attacking up the slope 1st half the low sun at their backs, Cambridge to kick-off the 1st half wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts. QPR lined up wearing blue and white hooped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball is played out to the right wing for Laura Mills to chase after QPR’s Marika Engels at left back putting the ball out for a throw. Deep on the right Emma Jenkins comes forwards from right back to take for Cambridge gives it to Becky Taylor who rolls it back to Jenkins sends the ball back in high towards the top of the area under it is Danielle Puddefoot, recently signed on by Cambridge having been at QPR last season, attempts to lay the ball back out for Dawn Mallett looking to run onto the ball is brought down by QPR captain Elly Maggs a free kick awarded 25 yards out in a central position, Mallett to take it tries to get some curl on the ball puts it straight into the gloves of QPR goalkeeper Callie Neat.

Danielle Puddefoot up against her old QPR teammates

  QPR make ground on the right the ball is sent in low into the Cambridge area cleared out to Mills the break is on as she looks to play in Nicole Perschky making a central run, the ball deflects off a defender into the path of Rosie Kmita on the left takes on the shot from 25 yards out her effort rolling wide across the six yard box. A bright start from Cambridge pushing players on the ball is played long into the right channel Mills going after it retrieves in the corner, her cross into the area is blocked by Engels put behind for the 1st corner of he game.

  The corner comes to nothing, QPR look to get the ball up field Hayley Sloan with the pass forwards looking for Dominika Netschova the ball is cut out by Cambridge captain Laura Bright, Cambridge attack the ball played out to Rosie Kmita on the left as players break forwards the ball is sent into the box dropping inside the six yard box far post Puddefoot is there goes for the acrobatic an overhead kick, gets the ball on target is saved pushed wide by Neat getting across the post. Ashleigh Harte comes towards the near post to clear the ball for a 2nd corner kick on the right goes longer this time Mollie Kmita far side getting her head on the ball can’t direct it on target.

 

Cambridge’s Nicole Perschky with QPR’s
Dominika Netschova

Getting hold of the ball in midfield, Mallett blasts her long range shot against an onrushing player the ball deflecting into Taylor puts it out for Jenkins getting forwards on the right, lifts a high ball into the box, Perschky gets her head on the ball, lacks the power to trouble Neat in the QPR goal. 10 minutes played and QPR are struggling to get any meaningful possession on the ball, Cambridge quick to close down all over the pitch. Win a free-kick inside their own half, goalkeeper Verity Crook to take puts it long for Rosie Kmita on the left side sends the diagonal ball into the area, Taylor jumping near post with Harte inside the six yard box the ball knocked to the floor, Perschky running onto the ball looks certain to score, Neat however is down sharply getting her gloves firmly around the ball on the goal-line with a great save.

  Jess Treharne seeing the ball into her feet inside the Cambridge half left side turns well playing Juliette Denny in behind on the left wing getting up the pitch plays the ball into the box, a looping ball taken well by Crook at her near post with Maggs and Netschova both making runs at goal. Sloan tries her luck from distance her ball into the box losing pace as Crook coming forwards scoops it up into her body. 

QPR Ladies captain
Elly Maggs

  Rosie Kmita is fouled by Micaela Lopes as she attacks on the left side, the QPR right back shown a yellow card by the referee. Mallett to play the ball into the area, QPR’s Jean Sseninde gets a firm header on the ball to clear it out of the area, Mills gets hold of the ball pushes on before playing it back into the area right Maggs to it 1st concedes the corner. The ball into box is headed clear by Sseninde.

 Pushing on down the left Cambridge win another corner the ball driven in near post his headed goalwards, cleared off the line by Lopes defending the near post the ball coming back to Taylor her shot is deflected wide. All Cambridge win a series of corner kicks Neat coming for a ball near side can’t get a firm punch on the ball as it is headed wide across the six yard box. Mallett is booked as she catches Netschova as the QPR attacker attempts to bring the ball out from the back.

  Puddefoot getting the ball into her feet on the right side from a throw links up with Perschky inside the box right corner goes past her into the box getting the return ball shoots, not getting any power behind the shot rolls safely into Neat’s gloves. 

 GOAL! 34 minutes on the clock and Cambridge finally get the goal their play has deserved. Winning another corner on the left side the ball is played in high into the area near side Neat under it goes to punch the ball away doesn’t get any distance on it is headed back in towards goal by Mollie Kmita, QPR have players at that side the ball is cleared out of the six yard box comes at Taylor quickly the ball hitting her rises up the attacker adjusting well to get her foot up and over the ball to send it back in towards goal, over Neat and bounces down off the crossbar over the line 1-0.

Becky Taylor on the ball gives Cambridge the lead


  A quickly taken free-kick from Cambridge inside their own half sees Rosie Kmita with the ball out wide sends it on for Perschky on the move through the centre, Sseninde going with her gets something on the ball deflects it across with Taylor free coming on towards the top of the area shoots early, looking to put the ball into the far bottom corner, Neat diving to her right lays claim to the ball. Making ground on the right the ball is played into QPR’s Denny goes for goal from all of 30 yards sends her shot over the crossbar.

  GOAL! QPR have barely had an attack in the 1st half with a little over 5 minutes left however they get themselves back on level terms with their 1st shot on target. Getting possession on the right side the ball is played into the box by Jo Blodgett right corner good control from Denny before playing it across the D with Treharne making a great run hitting the ball 1st time turning it goalwards racing along the ground evades the diving Crook to make it 1-1. 

Cambridge’s Mollie Kmita looking to bring the ball out as QPR’s Jess Treharne goes to challenge

  The game suddenly opens up QPR enthused by the goal push on, Cambridge have opening too, Mills switching sides with Rosie Kmita plays the ball early long into the box, Kmita running clear into the area the target far side can’t get onto the end of the ball to turn it towards goal. The referee stops play with Netschova down on the far side, looks to have injured her wrist, in alot of pain can’t continue QPR make the change bringing on Liz O’Callaghan. Puddefoot brings the ball on down the right side plays it on for Jenkins getting forwards down the wing holding the ball up Rosie Kmita outside the area wants the ball getting it crosses into the area far side Mills onto the ball plays it back out to Mallett running in strikes the ball 30 yards out the shot flying over the bar.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Queens Park Rangers Ladies

   A totally dominant 1st half from Cambridge yet they go into the dressing room at half-time with the scores level. Have had the majority of the attack just lacking the clinical finish their play required, Taylor giving them the lead it lasted just 5 minutes with QPR scoring with their only shot on target in the 1st half. All square still all to play for in the 2nd half.
   It’s QPR to kick-off the 2nd half a shuffling of personnel, Denny looks to have taken up a central midfield role. The ball is put out to O’Callaghan on the right side gets a throw in, keeping possession QPR win their 1st corner of the match. Sent in high from the right towards the far post Crook is able to take the ball down cleanly. Cambridge break, the ball with Mallett tries to play it inside to Taylor the ball is cut out the deflection taking it out to the left side Rosie Kmita can’t bring it under control to turn the cross in goal kick. Crook with the free-kick inside her half plays it up field is knocked inside Mallett onto the ball hits a powerful shot from 30 yards out across the area running wide at the far post.
Cambridge United WFC’s, Dawn Mallett
   Mills on the ball drives forwards plays the ball into Taylor moving into the box from the right, bringing the ball under control shoots as she arrives at the top of the six yard box her effort fired wide across the face of goal. Mallett puts the ball over the top for Mills to go after on the right into the box Neat comes across, guides the ball out of play for a goal kick. Cambridge attack on the left Rosie Kmita with the ball in the corner has Carrie Bennett with her in support lays the ball back to the full back she passes in field to Mallett who lifts the ball up into the area the ball coming to Taylor inside the area right of goal nods it down for Perschky waiting top of the area central, the striker can’t keep her shot down whistles over the bar.
 Perschky is after a long ball put forwards by Bright looks to play it on into the box, Sseninde getting the interception deflects the ball into the area running away to the right Mills covering the ground attempts to get there before Neat ends up on the floor as the keeper gets it clear shouts for a penalty but nothing is given except a corner kick.
 
QPR Ladies, Jo Blodgett with Cambridge’s Dawn Mallett
  A free-kick for QPR on halfway the ball played up to Blodgett inside the area Cambridge defend the ball knocked down out of the area Treharne running onto the ball strikes it early the shot charged down outside the area rolls back to Treharne who strikes the ball over with her 2nd attempt. Bennett into Mallett inside the QPR half plays the ball up to Mills at the top of the area on the right, gets her head to the ball then gives chase it it running away to the far post inside the six yard box getting there before Harte lays it back to Rosie Kmita coming in from the left leaning back into the shot sends it over the crossbar.
  Treharne is yellow carded for going through the back of Bright the Cambridge captain down needing treatment, Midway point in the 2nd half the scores remained locked at 1-1 as the floodlights start to come on. Play resumes the ball is with Mallett, Puddefoot on the move on her left gets the ball plays it forwards for Rosie Kmita breaking into the area, Harte gets back on her with a good sliding challenge to take the ball away before she can shoot. Play is stretched Cambridge have a corner on the right, Sseninde heading it clear QPR try to counter down the left, Jenkins winning the ball back played forwards Cambridge win another corner. The ball on the right is delivered high into the six yard box both Bright and Puddefoot go up for the header, think Puddefoot gets to it 1st turns the ball goalwards is heading in, Neat with an instinctive save gloving the ball away from goal.
Callie Neat, gets a glove up to save for QPR
  Cambridge make their 1st change Puddefoot is replaced by Laura Baker in midfield. The ball is played up to Denny inside the Cambridge area right of goal, is falling back as she goes to strike the ball goalwards runs safely into Crook at her near post. QPR break through the middle Denny has the ball inside the Cambridge half lifts the ball up over the Cambridge defence with Blodgett getting into the box, hitting the ball on the run looks to put it wide of Crook, doesn’t get any pace on the ball the Cambridge keeper able to dive to her right and make the save. 
  Rosie Kmita racing with the ball up the left squares the ball into the box Maggs tracking back clears behind for a corner at the near post. The ball goes long is with Baker at the top of the area, is closed down quickly unable to turn and lift the ball back into the six yard box. Cambridge make a 2nd substitution, Ashleigh Deacon coming on for Rosie Kmita with less than 10 minutes to play.
  Bennett passes up field to Deacon on the left plays it on for Taylor to go after, QPR defend the ball out for a corner, sent high into the area Harte headers clear for the visitors. Up the other end Denny brings the ball forwards plays it out to Blodgett on the right moving into the box her ball fired is is cut out by Mollie Kmita the corner conceded. Goes long cleared back to the taker fires the ball in near post Crook saves well pushing the ball wide at the near pot as it deflects of a defender. The game moves into injury time extra-time is looming.
 GOAL! Perschky latches onto a loose QPR ball in the middle of the park playing it out wide to Mills on the right, Cambridge break quickly Mills with pace to burn carrying the ball on has passing options in the middle Deacon in particular with a great run into the box, only one thing on Mills’ mind however and she pulls the trigger from 20 yards right corner of the box sending a quality strike across the keeper and into the far corner of the goal beyond to give Cambridge the lead 2-1.
 
 GOAL! Late heartbreak for QPR conceding a goal in injury time have to push forwards looking for an immediate response the ball is won back by Cambridge with Deacon moving inside from the left lifts the ball up into the area clears everyone bouncing into the area, Taylor goes after it with Neat coming out towards the ball, Taylor gets to it 1st her touch taking the ball away from the keeper to the right of goal turns and sends the ball into the empty goal beyond 3-1. 
Full time Cambridge United WFC 3-1 Queens Park Rangers Ladies

 Cambridge United WFC win the game with 2 injury time goals 3-1 to make it into the hat for the 2nd Round Proper draw of the FA Women’s Cup this Monday the ties to be played in early January. Over all a dominate display from the South East Division One side knocking out higher league opposition. Creating plenty of chances getting the goals the play deserved late on. Enjoying a good run in the FA Women’s Cup. Queens Park Rangers Ladies put alot into the game creating far less in the final 3rd couldn’t match Cambridge’s determination to win the ball.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today. Best of luck to Cambridge United WFC in the next round.

*UPDATE* the draw for the FA Women’s Cup 2nd Round Proper was made earlier today and Cambridge United WFC have a home tie again will be taking on either Southampton Women FC or Swindon Town Ladies in the next round scheduled to be played Sunday 8th January.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies

The football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday came from the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup a new format this season the sides split into 8 Groups with a mixture of Premiership and Championship sides in each with the winners progressing to the quarter final knock-out stages. Group F featured 2 Premiership sides, Newmarket Town Ladies & St Ives Town Ladies both having won their opening 2 matches were both on 6 points at the top of the table now playing each other in a must win game to progress, Newmarket Town holding top spot on goal difference.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies

 
  Trip to Newmarket today to the Ridgeons Stadium to watch the deciding match in the group stages of this seasons, Cambridgeshire S-Tech Women’s League Cup with Newmarket Town Ladies hosting St Ives Town Ladies tied at the top of the table on 6 points in Group F vying for a place in the quarter final knock-out matches in the New Year.

  A new look for the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup this year with the early stages being held in a group format the sides across the three leagues in the County the Women’s Premiership and Championship North and South drawn to face each other in 8 Groups A-H with 3 or 4 sides in each playing each other once a Premiership side in each against Championship opposition. With 9 sides competing in the Premiership one Group has 2 sides in it and that is Group F featuring both Newmarket Town Ladies and St Ives Town Ladies along side Championship South sides Isleham United Ladies and Fulbourn Bluebirds.

  A good start to the season for both sides in the Premiership. Newmarket Town Ladies currently 2nd in the table won their 1st 4 league games before suffering their 1st defeat against Cambridge United WFC Reserves who took over at the top 2 weeks ago. Drawn into Group F were on the road for their 1st 2 games against Championship South sides, Fulbourn Bluebirds and Isleham United Ladies winning their 1st game 9-0 the 2nd 3-0 hold the advantage over St Ives Town Ladies on goal difference.

  St Ives Town Ladies are into their 2nd season as a club having formed for the 2015/16 season, recognise a few of their squad from the Sawtry Ladies side I covered on the blog in it’s very early days. also a few players in the squad who used to play for Huntingdon Town Ladies too. With St Ives Town already having youth sides in girls football the platform was in place to form a women’s team. Did well in their 1st season winning promotion up to the Premiership and of the 3 sides promoted from the Championship’s North and South this season are doing well in 3rd place in the table. Have also played Isleham United Ladies and Fulbourn Bluebirds in their 1st 2 group F matches winning 4-0 and 4-1 at home to have 6 points, today a must win game if they wish to advance to the knock-out stages of the Cambridgeshire League Cup the 2 sides have met in the league already this season Newmarket Town Ladies winning 2-0 away from home. 
   

Group F                
                   
Pos Team Pl W D L F A GD Pts
1 Newmarket Town Ladies 2 2 0 0 12 0 12 6
2 St Ives Town Ladies 2 2 0 0 8 1 7 6
3 Isleham United Ladies 2 0 0 2 0 7 -7 0
4 Fulbourn Bluebirds 2 0 0 2 1 13 -12 0

 The venue for today’s match, Newmarket Town FC’s Ridgeons Stadium. A brand new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. A very good playing surface and one of the best artificial surfaces I’ve seen. A covered stand with seating on one side of the pitch, along side the clubhouse and bar with hot food and drink available, Barry’s Snack Shack served up one of the best cheeseburgers I have had in a while. A bright sunny end to November, a few dark clouds around and these would grow to make it chilly and gloomy over the course of the game.

 Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Jasmine Woodfield, Olivia Orme, Jess Linger, Beth Woodfield (C), Abbie Marshall, Cindy Ponder, Abbi Griffin, Joeli Kirby, Nadine Basson & Lauren Deller.
 subs – Lauren Blackaby & Molly Agnew

 St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Kira Markwell, Steph Ransome, Penny Ford, Molly Berryman, Molly Flack, Megan Stow, Sophie Marheineke, Georgia Stancombe, Amy Seymour-Shove, Hannah Seymour-Shove & Sasha Smith (C).
 subs – Connie Liddiard, Chloe Stefanelli, Jade Carpenter, Leigh Chatten & Jorgie Hall.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Newmarket to kick off the 1st half wearing yellow shirts with blue trim on the shoulders and sides blue shirts with yellow trim on the sides and yellow socks with two blue and white bands with St Ives Town lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The home side look to attack from the off the ball played up through the middle looking for Joeli Kirby making a run on the left, Molly Flack stepping forwards to get her head on the ball clear for St Ives. Newmarket trying again on the right, Abbi Griffin on the ball getting down the line and putting a cross into the box, St Ives goalkeeper, Kira Markwell claiming confidentially at her near post. 
  Markwell is out to the edge of her area, clearing the ball as Cindy Ponder plays Kirby in up the left, puts the ball into the middle along the ground trying to pick out Lauren Deller running through the middle the St Ives goalkeeper getting to the ball 1st. A fast start to the match both sides looking to get the ball out to their wide players attack down the wings. A free-kick for Newmarket inside the St Ives half on the right side Jess Linger on the ball plays it long up into the box, the header clear putting the ball out for a throw on the right is by St Ives Molly Berryman.

The Newmarket Town Ladies defence, Olivia Orme in the front of the picture, Jess Linger and captain Beth Woodfield
beyond keep their eye on the in coming ball, pictured with St Ives Hannah Seymour-Shove
  From the throw the ball is cleared out to the left comes to Newmarket, left back Olivia Orme looks to send it back in quickly towards the top of the area with striker Nadine Basson making a move from right to left across the D, colliding with the St Ives defender challenging her manages to get the ball on into the box races away behind for a goal kick before Kirby can chase it down. Ponder has a strike on goal from all of 30 yards out, the shot straight at Markwell who takes it cleanly. Coming forwards on the left side Griffin sends the ball high into the box, Deller arriving sees the ball over her shoulder hitting it on the volley trying to pick out the top corner curls wide of the mark.
  St Ives are working hard to close the ball down, Megan Stow winning possession in the middle gets it forwards, helped on St Ives captain, Sasha Smith leading the attack is fed in down the right on the run hits a shot from the edge of the box in low towards the near post, Eloise Hope in the Newmarket goal makes a comfortable save. Georgia Stancombe brings the ball down the right, loops a cross up into the Newmarket area Beth Woodfield Newmarket’s captain heads the ball away from danger. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Megan Stow is beaten to the ball by Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

  Orme getting forwards with the ball on the left for Newmarket plays the pass in field getting Basson onto the ball running through the centre, rolls it forwards into the box with Ponder getting up field to her right, Markwell off her line quickly gets to the ball and slides in to claim. Griffin up the right wing for Newmarket crosses early the ball along to top of the St Ives area for Deller who attempts to bring it down and turn to shoot, Flack is on her shoulder the defender doing well to prevent the shot the ball going out for a goal kick.

  A little to casual at the back from Hope as the goalkeeper with the ball at her feet loos to pass it out of her area inside to Woodfield, St Ives, Hannah Seymour-Shove bursting forwards latching onto the ball drives into the box, Hope recovers quickly and getting across throws herself into a full long dive to make the blocking save as Seymour-Shove shoots. Hope makes a good catch inside her six yard box moments later not put off as Hannah Seymour-Shove throws herself forwards trying to get onto the end of a Stancombe cross put in from the right.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Nadine Basson
  Basson plays the ball on for Kirby on the left, a little long, Kirby does well to keep it in before she can get her head up and cross, Steph Ransome gets back at her and tackling wins the ball for St Ives, Newmarket prevent the break keeping the ball on the left rolled into Basson left corner outside the box curls a ball over the defence dropping into the six yard box, Markwell down low makes the save pushing the ball out to the right, Penny Ford getting it away as Griffin closes her down.
  Ponder wins the ball in the middle of the park gets the pass into Kirby on the left in behind squares a cross along the floor into the six yard box, Markwell down to see it into her gloves before Basson or Deller can arrive. Griffin tries her luck from 25 yards out a curling effort lacks the height to trouble Markwell. Newmarket make a double switch, Kirby and Ponder come off, Lauren Blackaby and Molly Agnew come on. 
  GOAL! Newmarket have been pressing forwards looking for the opening goal of the match, however it is the visitors who get themselves in front 25 minutes into the 1st half, Sophie Marheineke along side Stow in the middle of the park has been getting the tackles in to win the ball break up play, gets forwards carrying the ball on towards the Newmarket box has Stancombe ahead of her looking to get in behind the defence threads the pass into her run taking it on into the box, Hope comes rushing out goes to ground Stancombe takes the ball past her and sends it into the empty net beyond 0-1.

Georgia Stancombe pictured getting back to help in defence
gives St Ives Town Ladies the lead

 

St Ives Town Ladies
Sophie Marheineke

 Newmarket get straight back on the attack from the restart Abbie Marshall playing the ball into Griffin who looks to play the ball into Agnew on the left top of the area looks to cut inside, Ransome defends well to deny her a goal scoring opportunity. Orme up field passes the ball into Deller central back to goal outside the box, looks to lay it to Agnew on the left coming into the box again Ransome puts in the challenge. A great ball over the top with Basson getting in behind the St Ives defence hits the falling ball on the half volley outside the box the shot straight at Markwell the keeper dropping forwards onto the bouncing ball.

 GOAL! 4 minutes after going in front, St Ives double their lead. The visitors launching a counter attack with Marheineke getting forwards again the ball is played up field, a back heel to help it on Marheineke plays it on trying to pick out Smith as the Newmarket defence try to clear, Smith gets in to challenge win the ball top of the area shifts the ball to her right and curls her shot around the keeper into the goal beyond to score 0-2.

St Ives Town Ladies
captain Sasha Smith


 
  St Ives enthused by 2 quick goals press forwards Smith out to the left strong on the ball drives into the box, Beth Woodfield stands her ground and wins the tackle before a shot can be released. Another double switch for Newmarket with Ponder and Kirby back on for Basson and Deller. Agnew bursting down the left wing sends in a low cross for Newmarket into the six yard box Markwell calls and gathers as Berryman misses her attempted clearance in front of her.
  Marshall with the ball at her feet for Newmarket on the right plays the diagonal ball into the box with Kirby breaking forwards into the area, hits the shot puts the ball wide behind the goal. Ponder gets in behind the St Ives defence on the left squares the ball along the six yard box too many bodies to get through before the cross can reach Kirby at the far post the ball is cleared out of the box Griffin 1st to it 25 yards out goes to shoot sends her strike over the bar. 

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-2 St Ives Town Ladies

  A 2-0 lead for St Ives at the break as the 2 sides head to the dressing room. A busy 1st half, the advantage with St Ives now hold onto the lead and they will progress to the knock-out stages of the league cup at Newmarket’s expense. Have put in alot of work 1st half defending well at the back, Markwell confident behind her defence. Their goals coming as Newmarket were pressing for the lead themselves, had created more chances in front of goal, it’s the ones that cross the line however that count and St Ives took both their goals well to do that.
  Has got decidedly chilly as the sides come out for the 2nd half the sky full of dark clouds the light starting to fade. St Ives to kick-off the 2nd half Deller is back on for Newmarket. The home side press early a strong run on the ball from Griffin on the right wing whips the ball into the box trying to pick out Deller trying to bring it down is closely marked by Flack the ball is pushed out of the area with Linger getting forwards strikes the shot looping into the air is touched by Markwell. A corner on the right put in towards the top of the area, players making runs the ball isn’t picked up runs through to Blackaby who hits a shot up and over the crossbar. 

Abbie Marshall on the ball for Newmarket Town Ladies 
  Ford tackles to win the ball for St Ives at the back up field into Stow on for Smith a quick break the ball in passed into Stancombe racing in behind from the right shoots early the ball flying wide at the near post. Newmarket bring Ponder back on replacing Linger who has taken a knock. Pressure from Deller forces an error form the St Ives defence outside the box gets the ball and rolls it into Kirby inside the box closed down gets it squared centrally to Marshall who shoots puts the ball straight at Markwell the keeper getting her gloves wrapped around the ball. Basson returns to the action for Newmarket with Agnew coming off.

Kira Markwell in goal for St Ives Town Ladies

   A delay in play as Stancombe comes off the worst as she and Ponder come together inside the box as the ball is punched away by Markwell in front of the pair as Griffin lifts a cross into the box. A free kick to Newmarket outside the box to the right as Deller’s run is impeded. Ponder on the set-piece sends the ball up towards the far post, Markwell with the call backpedalling plucks the ball out of the air. St Ives make their 1st chance of the match Marheineke the player coming off Connie Liddiard comes on. Another foul in the middle of the St Ives half gives Ponder another opportunity to put the ball into the box, central lifted up into the air Markwell isn’t challenged as she catches the ball.

   Amy Seymour-Shove with a run on the left takes the ball in behind the Newmarket defence cuts back inside plays the ball into Smith top of the area, a good 1st touch to take the ball away from her marker then spinning to meet the ball as it drops to the floor plays her shot straight at Hope well placed in her goal. One Seymour-Shove to the other as Hannah getting hold of the ball in the middle lays it forwards to Amy on the left getting forwards wins her side a corner, the ball is attacked at the near post, everyone misses it but despite the melee in front of her Hope claims well. 
Georgia Stancombe with Newmarket Town Ladies, Molly Agnew

  A free-kick for St Ives in the middle, Liddiard on the ball sends it long into the box, runners breaking into the area, bounces on into Hope’s gloves before it can be attacked. A 2nd change for St Ives, Leigh Chatten comes on replacing Ford at left back with a little under 20 minutes left of normal time. Griffin gets a corner for Newmarket on the right the ball put in near post is cleared behind by Berryman for a 2nd corner going longer this time flies across the six yard box Blackaby leaping can’t get her head on the ball. 

  Newmarket’s Marshall moving forwards with the ball lays the pass inside to Ponder 35 yards from goal shoots as the ball runs across her body the ball bounces a yard wide of the St Ives goal. The floodlights are switched on the clouds making it very dark above, Griffin is tackled by Chatten as she tries to go past her down the right the ball runs out for a corner, a change for St Ives before it is taken Chloe Stefanelli on for Ransome. Flack defends the corner heading away at the near post. Another change for St Ives, Smith coming off, Jade Carpenter entering the pitch.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Lauren Blackaby with St Ives Town Ladies, Amy Seymour-Shove
  Newmarket push on searching for a goal to get themselves back into the match with less than 5 minutes left the ball is played into Deller back to goal inside the D, shifts it well between her feet to find a yard of space on the turn can only pick out Markwell in the right space to claim hold of the ball in goal. Newmarket bring the ball on down the right the diagonal ball into the box is sent in low Basson breaking into the area throws herself at the ball trying to get onto the end of it as Markwell coming forwards closes the space down the ball hitting her as she and Basson come together. Basson stays down is in alot of discomfort another lengthy spell for treatment, having suffered from a nasty knee injury in the past it is a concern as she is carried off the pitch can’t continue, Agnew is readied and sent on. St Ives make another change too Jorgie Hall coming onto the pitch replacing Hannah Seymour-Shove as the game moves into injury time. 
  GOAL! Late in the game St Ives score a 3rd goal to ensure the victory and it comes from an error at the back from Newmarket have a throw at the back the ball is thrown to Hope top of her area on the left, at her feet doesn’t get rid of it as Carpenter moves to challenge for the ball nips in to get her toe on the ball, moves down the line the angle inside the area acute she opens up her body opting for placement as Hope backpedals trying to get back in her goal, sends the ball curling up towards the top corner and in to make it 0-3. A good finish.
  Hope knows it was her error holds up her hand in acknowledgement, harsh but you have to move on goalkeepers make fair more saves than errors anyone will tell you. The game moves into injury time. Newmarket keep pushing forwards the ball is with Griffin on the right running onto the ball strikes it early 30 yards out her shot/cross flashing across the face of the St Ives goal. Marshall win seconds left plays the ball on for Griffin moving in from the wing hits the ball with the outside of her boot the ball flying across the six yard box and wide at the far post as the final whistle blows. 
Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-3 St Ives Town Ladies

  A 3-0 win for St Ives Town Ladies sees them top Group F and advance to the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup will be joined by Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Bar Hill Ladies and Wisbech St Marys Ladies with the other 4 groups to be decided next Sunday. Recent history shows the league cup is a wide open competition and on today’s performance St Ives Town Ladies should fancy their chances. Put alot into the game defended well, Newmarket starting well creating opportunities but not breaking the St Ives defence down the visitors growing in confidence and 2 well taken goals seeing them hold the advantage a half-time. A good all round team performance keeping Newmarket at bay 2nd half nicking a goal late on to make sure of the win.
  Disappointment for Newmarket going out of the league cup and a blow to see Nadine Basson leaving the pitch on a stretcher will be missed hoping it’s not too serious an injury and wish her all the best and for a speedy recovery. My thanks to both Newmarket’s Luke Worley and St Ives, Darren Majoram for their help with the teams today.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

Haven’t had a match report on the website for the past two weeks as my other women’s football outpost the Supporting Women’s Football Blog has been distracted by women’s football in other part of the country. Returns with a bang a dramatic game enjoyable viewing for the neutral, action from the FA Women’s Cup a postponed fixture from the weekend before with Norwich City Ladies hosting Suffolk rivals, Lowestoft Town Ladies at Plantation Park both vying for a place in the 1st Round Proper of the competition with a home tie against AFC Wimbledon Ladies awaiting the victor.

Match Report – Norwich City Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

 
  A trip across Norfolk this Sunday to catch another game of football from the FA Women’s Cup. A local derby match too! Postponed from last Sunday due to a water-logged pitch the game survived the overnight rain deposited across the South East by Storm Angus, the venue Plantation Park home of Norwich City Ladies hosting Suffolk rivals Lowestoft Town Ladies in 4th Round Qualifying.

   Both sides playing for a place in the 1st Round Proper of the competition the draw already made know their opponents, a home tie against fellow South East Division One side AFC Wimbledon Ladies one of the early pacesetters in the league. Both sides entering the FA Women’s Cup in the previous round.

  Norwich City Ladies were at home in 3rd Round Qualifying played Peterborough based side Riverside Rovers Ladies playing 2 leagues below them in the EMWFL Division One South won the game comfortably racking up a double figure score 10-0 to advance to the next round. Lowestoft Town Ladies were at home too in 3rd Round Qualifying beating fellow South East Division One side Enfield Town Ladies for the 2nd time in a week 2-0 to reach the next round.

  The venue for today’s game Plantation Park was touch and go as to whether it would survive the over night storm, hard work in the morning by Norwich Cty Ladies and Norwich United inspecting the ground early saw it go ahead so long as there wasn’t anymore heavy rain, leaden skies above didn’t look promising but nevertheless the match was on for a 1pm kick-off, extra-time and penalties if required to settle the tie today. Is a small covered stand upon one side of the ground for spectators to watch keep out of the rain.
  
Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Fiona Coombes, Erin Wilson, Rebecca Russell, Bryony Rapley, Kate Parsons (C), Jodie Drake, Paige Shorten, Brooke Osborne, Kyla Love, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett.
subs – Ellie Bird, Emily Moerkerk, Ellen Swift & Kayti Simonson. 

Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Lindsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Abbie Everson, Ellie Froud, Broghan Scully, Cassie Craddock, Gemma Moore, Aimee Durrant, Molly Hall & Hannah Waters (C).
subs – Millie Cursons & Nina Batchelor.

  A switch of ends at the start the breeze picking up blowing from one goalmouth to the other across the pitch Lowestoft having it at their backs 1st half with Norwich kicking off wearing green shirts and socks with yellow shorts, Lowestoft kitted out in an all blue kit, both going to have a lot of brown added during the match it’s muddy out there pity the kit washers. The ball is out of play straight away for a throw on the left.

  Lowestoft are awarded a free-kick jut inside their own half is played long with Molly Hall peeling into space on the right looking to get in behind, can’t catch the ball before it runs out of play, from the goal-kick Aimee Durrant wins the ball for Lowestoft coming inside passes the ball out to Hannah Waters Lowestoft’s captain drifting away to the right squares the ball back in along the top of the box is cleared by Bryony Rapley for Norwich before Durrant can run onto it. A god start from Lowestoft pressuring Norwich at the back for the ball, Gemma Moore on the left wins her side the 1st corner of the game takes it, lifting the ball into the six yard box Waters jumping near post can’t reach the ball.

Lowestoft Town Ladies
captain Hannah Waters

  A counter attack from Norwich the ball played forwards to Natasha Snelling on the left drills a diagonal ball into the area, is cleared by Lowestoft’s Lindsey Adams spinning out into the middle Paige Shorten racing onto the ball goes to hit a shot a bobble sees her slice it horribly wide, turns into a good ball for Erin Wilson the Norwich right back getting forwards lifts a cross up into the area Lowestoft head clear.

  Is wet and muddy out there going to ground to make a challenge is risky, Norwich’s Rebecca Russell is late with her tackle catches Waters as she tries to bring the ball forwards on the right bringing her to the ground a painful one but Waters is okay. Russell gets yellow carded. The ball is played up into the area the header won by Norwich is knocked into the ground, the home side struggling to clear their lines the ball rebounds to Moore 20 yards out left of the D fires a low shot in through the crowd, Norwich goalkeeper Fiona Coombes dives to her right pushes the ball wide for a corner. The ball goes long towards the far post the ball is headed down Durrant 3 yards out, cleared off the line by Norwich for a 2nd corner. Hall moves towards the ball this time can’t direct her header on target comes back to Moore who plays her cross into the side netting.

   Has a derby feel about it the slippery conditions meaning the challenges aren’t well timed or controlled to make matters worse a light rain has started to fall blowing across the pitch. Shorten with a good pass forwards looks to play Chelsea Garrett in behind, Lowestoft’s Ellie Froud with a good tackle to get her foot on the ball prevents the striker getting a run at goal. The ball out for a throw on the left is played inside rolled into Shorten’s path goes for the long distance pile driver again the spin on the shot seeing it run away from goal. 

Ellie Froud in defence for Lowestoft Town Ladies

  Charnelle Riggall brings the ball on for Lowestoft up the right passes the ball into Cassie Craddock ahead of her flicks it on for Hall moving right, sends the ball into the area, Wilson clearing far post for Norwich. The ball is played up top quickly by Jodie Drake into Garrett good control with her back to goal 25 yards out turns tries to roll it through into the box for Snelling coming in from the left, too close to Brogan the Lowestoft keeper getting her gloves around the ball 1st.

Norwich City Ladies, Natasha Snelling

  Norwich win the ball at the back, Kyla Love back to support her defence has the ball inside her own half takes it down the right, a storming run carrying it 3 quarters the length of the pitch evading two challenges squares the ball into the area looking to pick out Garrett near post as she arrives in the box, the ball is taken off her toes by Lowestoft’s Lindsey Adams getting across from left back to defend. Norwich pressuring the ball is deflected into the middle for Shorten gets the pass in behind for Garrett coming in from the left, Brogan commits early sliding in the pair collide inside the box and Garrett squeezes a shot past her runs wide across goal, both striker and keeper are okay to continue. Both come together in a similar incident moments later this time Garrett is flagged offside moving into the box from the right.

Norwich City Ladies, Chelsea Garrett with Lowestoft’s Broghan Scully

 Broghan Scully gets her foot on the ball in the middle for Lowestoft passes the ball into Hall 25 yards out right of goal, goes to shot Norwich captain Kate Parson’s charging the shot down as the rain starts to fall heavily. Durrant carries the ball on up the left side, skipping past a lunging challenge gets into the box pulls the trigger aiming near post Coombes has the angle covered parries the ball down and catches safely. On the opposite flank Waters is played in behind coming in from the right shoots from just outside the box, Coombes across to cover her near post gloves the ball down and saves. Moore with a long range shot sends the ball over the crossbar for Lowestoft from 30 yards out. The rain is getting heavier the wind picking up. Lowestoft are pushing hard as the 1st half moves towards the last 10 minutes, Durrant with the ball on the left rolls it on into the box for Moore to go after, Wilson gets her foot on the ball conceded the corner.

  GOAL! Lowestoft take the lead the goal coming from the corner, a great inswinging ball put in by Moore across the six yard evades everyone and goes into the back of the net far post. Moore scoring straight from the corner 0-1.

Gemma Moore scores direct
from the corner for Lowestoft
Town Ladies

  Bizarrely just as the rain and wind has been at it’s worst it quickly fades as Norwich attack from the restart the ball sent long to Snelling on the right whips an early ball into the Lowestoft area bounces through to the far post, Love free that side coming in can’t get near it as it runs out of play. Brooke Osborne puts pressure on the Lowestoft defence wins her side a corner on the right. Brogan coming for the ball near post misses it but so does everyone else as it flashes across the six yard box. 

  Russell gets the ball back to Coombes at the back for Norwich with Waters giving chase to a long pass on the right the ball cleared for a throw is played into Hall inside the box right of goal 8 yards out holds of Parsons to turn and shoot playing the ball wide of the post. 

Lowestoft’s Molly Hall, holds off Norwich’s Kate Parsons before shooting wide.

  Into 1st half injury time Snelling is fouled outside the box on the right for Norwich, a chance for Shorten to play the set-piece into the area whips the ball in towards the near post, Brogan unchallenged can see it bounce off the surface into her gloves as the referee brings an end to the 1st half.
 

Half-time Norwich City Ladies 0-1 Lowestoft Town Ladies

   A 1-0 advantage for Lowestoft as the sides head into the dressing room for half-time have dealt with the difficult playing conditions better than Norwich in the 1st half creating more chances and getting into the lead. Thankfully those conditions have dried up the wind dying down the rain stopping even a peek from the blue sky above the black clouds above. Came Lowestoft hold onto their lead 2nd half or will Norwich step it up get back on level terms it’s Lowestoft to get the 2nd half underway.
  Norwich get hold of the ball, Parsons playing it up to Osborne on the right, mis-controls the ball spinning infield, Garrett goes after it looks to get it out to Osborne moving into the area plays is stopped by the assistants flag, Osborne caught offside. Moore gets the ball forwards for Lowestoft, tries to pick out Hall drifting away into space wide left, getting the ball into her feet cuts back inside plays the cross in towards the near post, Coombes claims the ball with Waters running in behind. 
  A great save from Brogan in the Lowestoft goal keeps their lead intact as Norwich starting the 1st half brightly capitalise on a poor ball out from the back, Garrett latching onto it moving right spins and lifts the ball into the six yard box, Love is there in a central position 3 yards out connects with the ball, Brogan a yard away reacts instinctively falling back it looks a certain goal, however the keeper flings out a glove knocks the ball up killing its pace and as it drops to the floor plucks it into her body before Love and get a 2nd stab at it.
  As contrasting as the weather 1st half so is the start Norwich coming at Lowestoft keeping them penned in their own half. Garrett gathering the ball into her body central outside the box sends it across to Osborne on the right moving down the wing cuts the cross back into the area runs behind the Norwich players attacking the six yard box. Garrett on the ball again down the right off a throw for Norwich curls a cross into the box swinging away from goal nestles into the side netting. 
  Brogan with more goalkeeping heroics as she comes charging out of her area sliding in low saves with her knees off Snelling left side outside the box as Drake gets the ball into her the keepers clearance goes straight to Love however the chance to shoot is on Love takes it with Lowestoft defenders racing back to cover the goal the ball bouncing inside the six yard box runs wide. 
  GOAL! The positive attacking start to the 2nd half from Norwich tells as they get themselves back on level terms 10 minutes played the ball is lifted up into the area shots are blocked at the top of the area central Lowestoft battling to get the ball away. Pinging around a rebound takes it out of the box 25 yards out Shorten’s eyes light up she isn’t afraid to have a shot from distance two wayward attempts in the 1st half this is anything but, a belter of a strike nothing Brogan can do as it flies past her into the back of the net beyond 1-1.
 
Paige Shorten equalises for
Norwich City Ladies
  Norwich continue to press from the restart winning the ball, Drake takes on a strike from 25 yards out straight at Brogan the keeper parryig it down to claim inside her six yard box. Attacking up the left Norwich fire the ball long into the box for Garrett to chase after right of goal inside the six yard box tries to put her shot back across the keeper, going to ground Brogan throws out her right arm gets it around the ball. Build up through the middle Drake plays the ball into Snelling who helps it into the box for Garrett to her right takes on the shot as the ball rolls across her body slices it off target at the near post.
  Lowestoft make the 1st substitution of the game bringing on Nina Batchelor for Scully in midfield. Brogan is at it again for Lowestoft in goal making another instinctive save as Norwich are awarded a free-kick wide on the right, Shorten playing the ball long towards the far post, Parson’s jumping heads the ball down from close range, straight at Brogan the goalkeeper saves pushing the ball up over the bar to land on the roof of the net. 
 

Natasha Snelling puts Norwich
into the lead

GOAL! Norwich having gotten it back to 1-1 get themselves into the lead catch Lowestoft out from the corner Love free right offers herself for a a ball up the line the ball is whipped into the box from the top of the area a good delivery coming low far post is turned into the back of the net from close range, Snelling the player running out of the area in celebration having scored 2-1.

 
   Lowestoft go on the attack from the restart getting the ball in field into Craddock passes to Durrant on the right moving inside lets fly with a shot from all of 30 yards out Coombes getting down low to her left pushes the ball behind for a corner kick.
  GOAL! Norwich’s lead is short-lived as Lowestoft score from a corner for the 2nd time in the match, Moore to take it from the left another good delivery an inswinging ball flies across the six yard box looks to come back off the far post into the middle of goal, players from both sides converge on the ball, it is stabbed over the goal line Lowestoft running out of the area celebrating, Abbie Everson with the final touch is credited with the goal 2-2.
 
Moore’s corner flies across goal about to come back off the post before Abbie Everson central scores to make it 2-2
 
  Everson is booked soon after committing a foul inside the Norwich half on the right, players go forwards, Parsons plays the ball central into Shorten who lays it out to Wilson on the right, marked by Moore, Wilson is clipped as she runs across her the incident just inside the area right corner the referee points to the spot, penalty given! A chance for Norwich to retake the lead. Shorten on the spot-kick g0es for power hitting the ball to the right, Brogan guesses right and diving pushes the ball away making the save the ball cleared for a throw that side.
  Norwich with a corner on the left the ball is sliced in towards Love outside the box central running onto the shot hits it into the ground bouncing up swings wide of the Lowestoft goal. The visitors have struggled 2nd half to get the ball into their attackers, Waters kept quiet up top, Durrant makes ground on the right delivers a good ball into the box top of the area Rapley misses her header catches Hall coming in behind by surprise gets her foot onto the ball but before she can shift it to shoot Wilson nips in to tackle win it back for Norwich.
Lowestoft Town Ladies, Aimee Durrant
  Love is fouled wide on the left for Norwich in a deep position players move up into the area the ball is put high into the near post area, Hall back to defend for Lowestoft jumps highest to head the ball away across the face of goal. Everson gets back on Garrett to take the ball off her toe inside the box after the Norwich attacker gets hold of the ball from a goal-kick drives forwards the ball deflected away for a corner on the left. Moore headers the ball out of the area defending the near post for Lowestoft drops to Shorten who plays it back into the mix Parsons getting jump 10 yards out headers the ball wide.
  Snelling is off for Norwich with Emily Moerkerk coming on into midfield. Shorten drifting right for Norwich plays the ball into the area, cleared back to her squares it into Garrett inside the D back to goal shifts the ball to her left turning and hitting a shot rising is wide of the top corner. The final whistle blows and with the floodlights starting to take affect the game heads into extra-time.
Full-time Norwich City Ladies 2-2 Lowestoft Town Ladies

  A better 2nd half display from Norwich to get themselves back onto level terms then take the lead. Lowestoft have been on the ropes but got themselves back into it straight away after going behind levelling it up at 2-2 with goalkeeper Brogan pulling off some great saves.
Lowestoft Town Ladies goalkeeper, Eilish Brogan

Extra-time
 
Norwich to get the 1st half of extra-time under way, continue to attack the same goal they did 2nd half. Craddock wins possession for Lowestoft plays the ball out to Durrant on the right driving forwards tries to lift the ball over the Norwich defence into the box with Waters moving in behind, Parsons gets her head on the ball to intercept. Durrant with the ball at her feet on the right again cuts the ball into the box no one gambling as Coombes claims inside her six yard box. 
  Osborne plays the ball on up the right for Garrett coming across into space taking it on down the wing sends a cross into the box races behind the attackers arriving in the six yard box. Waters is put in over the top on the right for Lowestoft looks to drive infield into the box is tackled by Parsons the ball going out for a throw. The ball is played into the area right side held up by Hall, turns well sends a shot across the face of goal skims off the far post before running out of play for a goal-kick.
  GOAL! Lowestoft get themselves back into the lead the ball is on the left from a throw knocking in field outside the area 25 yards out Hall goes after it a crunching 50/50 challenge leaving a Norwich defender grounded the ball runs into the path of Craddock takes on the shot 1st time lifting the ball up and over Coombes into the back of the net beyond 2-3.
 
Cassie Craddock gives Lowestoft Town Ladies the lead in extra-time
  Moerkerk plays the ball into Love in a central position inside the D outside the Lowestoft box, holding the ball up is allowed to turn and get a shot away runs wide of the post. Love comes across to the right side telling Osborne to go the other way as she does the ball comes to her in a central position 25 yards out goes for goal Brogan diving to her left pushes the ball wide for the corner kick. 
 GOAL! Norwich equalise to make it 3-3 from the corner the ball comes in towards the top of the area helped onto Osborne far side fires the cross into the middle, Drake sees her shot blocked the ball cleared out of the area falls to Garrett 30 yards out left sends the shot in flies over the keeper to nestle into the back of the net another quality strike from distance. 
 Norwich make a change late in the 1st period of extra-time Ellen Swift coming on to replace Garrett.
   Half-time extra-time Norwich City Ladies 3-3 Lowestoft Town Ladies
 Lowestoft kick-off the 2nd period of extra-time 15 minutes for either side to find a winning goal or it’ll be settled by penalties. Lowestoft go long to the right for Durrant from kick-off, trying to get down the line is tackled well by Russell. The ball goes long up field for Drake 25 yards out turns playing the ball into the path of Shorten making a forwards run to get into the area left side of the D, Brogan comes rushing out goes to ground, Shorten gets the ball past the keeper runs wide across goal beyond. 
  Waters beats the Norwich offside trap as Durrant gets the ball forwards into her on the right, Coombes comes out to the edge of her area to clear the ball before Waters can get there puts it back out right Durrant goes after it sees her cross blocked before going down with cramp. Players are starting to tire on both sides a wet and heavy pitch starting to take its toll. 
  Russell slices a Lowestoft cross behind for a corner kick on the right, the ball is delivered far post from close range the ball is headed down into the ground, Norwich have a player on the line the ball is cleared from danger out for a throw. Play is stretched end to end tired balls however are not finding there mark. Durrant getting onto the ball from a goal-kick turns inside from the right plays the ball into the area just behind Waters running near post falls to Hall behind her stuck under her feet tries to get it under control evades one challenge lines up a shot Parsons lunges in to win the ball put it away to the left for a throw.
  Craddock finds the energy to drive with the ball through the middle of the park for Lowestoft lays the pass into Durrant on the right in space goes to shoot, the ball held by Coombes at her near post. Moore passes to Durrant on the right side her cross is headed out of the area is won back by Lowestoft played back into the area, Durrant pressures Russell on the ball inside the six yard box as she comes inside looking to clear, smashes the ball against Durrant who jumps to block, the deflection is flying towards the top corner so is Coombes a spectacular save to take the ball behind for the corner keep the scores level in extra-time. 
  All action in the closing minutes as the rain returns the light fades quickly the floodlights needed now. Norwich bring on Kayti Simonson for Drake. Durrant on the right latches onto a tired Norwich clearance goes for goal 35 yards out sends the shot over the crossbar. Hall has a strike from 30 yards out central left of goal Coombes dives to her left pushes the ball wide for the corner not long left the referee has his whistle in his mouth. Another great in swinger from Moore on the left into the six yard box, Coombes up gets a fist on the ball knocks it down into the area then saves save Hall getting a touch on the ball prods it straight into the keeper. The match goes to penalties.
  Might have mentioned I hate penalties before but that’s the way it is been an enthralling contest by both sides contrasting halves both could have won it, fair to say neither deserve to loose it but we have to have a winner.
Penalties
 
 Norwich to take the opening penalty it’s their captain Parsons to take it cool as you like sends the ball to the keepers left into the back of the net 1-0.
 
  Durrant up 1st for Lowestoft places the ball on the spot, Coombes wearing wearing bright pink with alot of movement on her goal line as she goes to strike the ball, sends the ball wide of the post to miss 1-0.
 
  Shorten up next to take Norwich’s 2nd penalty saw her strike saved by Brogan in the 2nd half diving to her right, Brogan does the same, Shorten doesn’t putting the ball low to her left to score 2-0.
 
 Lowestoft captain Waters up next to take the visitors 2nd penalty powers the spot kick high to the keepers right, Coombes diving gets a glove to the ball but can’t keep it out 2-1.
 
 Ellen Swift with Norwich’s 3rd penalty kick hits it low and accurate into the bottom right corner to score 3-1.
 
  Hall comes forwards to take Lowestoft’s 3rd penalty kick, a short run up 2 steps but plenty of power in her legs drives the ball home high into the net 3-2
 
 Rapley to take Norwich’s 4th spot kick goes for height again only this time the ball flies over the bar the score remains 3-2.
 
  Moore comes forwards to take Lowestoft’s 4th penalty with a chance to level things up coolly slots the ball down the middle sending Coombes the wrong way. 3-3.
 
  Osborne to take the 5th penalty for Norwich has to score Brogan guesses right dives the right way as Osborne hits the ball in low along the ground but gets enough power on her strike is past the keeper into the back of the net before she can save it 4-3.
  
  Craddock up last to take the 5th Lowestoft penalty scores and it goes to sudden death runs up goes for power and height the ball smashing off the crossbar heartbreak! Norwich rush from halfway in celebration however the referees assistant is waving his flag furiously, the officials consult did Coombes move off her line too early, Parsons goes over to them but the celebration can continue Norwich win the penalty shoot-out 4-3 to advance into the 1st Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup.
 A fantastic game for the neutral had it all rather not see a penalty shoot-out but there you go credit to both sides played some great stuff on a difficult surface and rubbish weather. The result both will agree could have gone either way. Norwich will now be at home in two weeks time playing AFC Wimbledon Ladies for a place in the 2nd Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup.
  My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams on the day. 

Match Report – Freethorpe Ladies v Toftwood United Ladies

The football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday came from Norfolk, a game from Division Three, two sides featuring on the blog for the 1st time with Freethorpe Ladies playing host to Toftwood United Ladies.

Match Report – Freethorpe Ladies v Toftwood United Ladies

 
  A journey from one end of the women’s football pyramid to the other this weekend, I like as you know reading this blog to vary the games and leagues give as much coverage as I can so the focus switches from the FAWSL last evening (see previous report) to county football this weekend in Norfolk, from Division Three, Freethorpe Ladies v Toftwood United Ladies.

 It is the 1st time both sides have featured on the blog, however I have seen Freethorpe Ladies play before back in the days when I was thinking about starting up a blog to help promote the game, they were playing the now defunct Earlham Colney Ladies. 

  For Freethorpe Ladies this is actually their 1st home game of the season having been away from home and having teams call off games since the season started on the 11th September. The Norfolk women’s league split into 3 Divisions last season. Freethorpe are amongst 6 sides contesting the league this season was 7, sadly the league lost Red Rose United recently. The remaining 6 sides playing each other 3 times in the league. Awarded the 3 points from their unplayed home game, Freethorpe haven’t picked up a point on their travels against the new sides entering the league some of whom have brought in player with higher league experience. A narrow defeat away to today’s opponents in the league cup 3 weeks ago.

   Toftwood United Ladies are into their 3rd season as a club based Dereham, Toftwood is a small village adjoining the town. Grew up in Dereham (East Dereham if you live outside of Norfolk) went to school there, Northgate High School which is where Toftwood are playing their home games this season. Drew their opening 2 league fixtures, have since suffered 2 defeats sandwiched between the cup win at home to Freethorpe on the road this Sunday in search of their 1st league win of the season.

  The village of Freethorpe is in East Norfolk near The Broads, the ladies football team play at the Freethorpe Community Pavilion, which houses the village hall as well as a multi sports facility, clubhouse with bar. Two football pitches, both a good size, in good condition with plenty of grass cover a slight slope from one goal to the other. A row of trees forming a wind break one end shedding their leaves onto the goal mouths that end, well into autumn afterall, the clock going back overnight an extra hour in bed for some. The weather still holding fair a dry, bright and mild afternoon.

 Freethorpe Ladies starting XI – Chloe Barber, Toni Talbot, Stacey Barnes (C), Elle-Jay Jarvis, Samantha Greenland, Louise Watts, Sarah Miller, Andrea Colbrook, Michaela Stordy, Megan Wilson & Georgia Goodson.
 subs – Sarah Earl, Wendy Barber & Amy Barber.

 Toftwood United Ladies starting XI – Katie Louise, Jolene Ayrton, Hayley Cross, Lisa Anthony, Olivia North, Summer Copeland, Lydia Hooper, Hayley Majoram, Robyn Penn (C), Katie Hart & Thea Wilson.
 subs – Melanie Freeman, Laura Harvey & Jordie Head. 

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 It’s the visitors Toftwood to get the 1st half underway wearing sky blue shirts, navy shorts and sky blue and navy hooped socks with Freethorpe lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts and socks with black shorts. Toftwood have possession of the ball early on make in roads up the left Lydia Hooper firing a cross into the box runs long across the face of goal retrieved by Katie Hart on the right on the byline plays the ball back into the middle, Thea Wilson making a central run into the box, Freethorpe’s Toni Talbot gets to the ball 1st clearing it out of the box.

Freethorpe Ladies, Toni Talbot
 Toftwood captain, Robyn Penn on the ball in the middle rolls it out to Hart wide right, is tackled by Freethorpe’s, Louise Watts the ball out for a throw, deep inside the Freethorpe half the ball is thrown to Hart turning lifts the ball into the area near post over Wilson going after gets the ball smashed into her face as Freethorpe clear. Hooper moving up the left again puts a cross into the box, doesn’t get past, Elle-Jay Jarvis this time as the defender steps forwards to get her foot on the ball. 
  Andrea Colbrook gets forwards into space on the left for Freethorpe as Stacey Barnes, Freethorpe’s captain wins the ball at the back rolls it forwards for Sarah Miller her ball picking out Colbrook, Toftwood’s Olivia North comes across to tackle put the ball out for the throw. Freethorpe try to work the ball into the box top left corner, charged down Toftwood counter Summer Copeland bringing the ball on sends the pass out to Penn moving out to the right hits the ball early into the box on the diagonal with Wilson and Hooper both bursting forwards the latter left of goal as she enters the box hitting the shot 1st time her strike wide of the target.
  GOAL! Almost 15 minutes on the clock and Toftwood score the opening goal of the game the attack starting on the left the ball played up to Hooper pushing forwards, plays the cross in early getting Wilson in behind the Freethorpe defence goalkeeper Chloe Barber starts to come in an attempt to close the angle, Wilson bringing the ball under control turns and sends her shot low past the advancing keeper into the bottom corner of the net 0-1.

Thea Wilson with the opening goal of the match for Toftwood United Ladies

  Freethorpe push players on from the restart up the field as Toftwood clear it, Watts intercepts the ball wide left inside the Toftwood half takes the ball in field picking out Georgia Goodson outside the box turning towards goal gets a shot away from inside the D along the ground the shot lacks power Toftwood goalkeeper Katie Louise gathers. Jolene Ayrton advances from the back for Toftwood on the left passes the ball into the path of Hooper breaking forwards the cross goes into the box early near side Copeland racing into the area connects with the ball on the outside of her boot trying to help it goalwards knocked into the ground bounces lacking pace, Barber gets hold of it in the six yard box.

Toftwood United Ladies, Summer Copeland

  Freethorpe make a change, Amy Barber coming on for Miller. The home side counter attack from a Toftwood free-kick getting the ball down the other end quickly Goodson carrying it forwards, support from Michaela Stordy to her left receives the ball, North in to tackle the ball out for a throw. Talbot forwards to take the throw tries a long one Colbrook the target top of the area, Toftwood clear but commit the foul wide left. Amy Barber on the set-piece curls the ball into the box Lisa Anthony gets her head on the ball to clear for the visitors.

  GOAL! Closing in on the half hour mark in the 1st half Freethorpe break forwards in number and equalise the ball won at the back is played into the midfield play spread wide to Amy Barber on the left carries the ball forwards, both Goodson and Megan Wilson going with her, Copeland gets back to pressure Barber on the ball as they reach the top of the area, Hayley Cross comes in to tackle Barber the Freethorpe attacker nudging the ball past the full-back as the two collide, the ball runs beyond everyone Wilson is quickest to react getting to the ball in the six yard box gets her shot past Louise as she lunges with her leg to block, the ball is past her strikes the post and bouncing up across the face of go, Goodson is on hand to bury the ball into the back of the net 1-1.

Georgia Goodson scorer the equaliser for Freethorpe Ladies

  Putting pressure on the Toftwood back-line Freethorpe are getting more joy going forwards. Wilson winning the ball in midfield plays the ball out to Watts on the left sends the ball on down the line for Amy Barber, leaning back as she goes to cross the ball puts it behind for a goal kick. Wendy Barber comes on for the home side replacing Stordy. Freethorpe have a free-kick beside the box on the left side after the referee spots a push in the back. Jarvis forwards to take it sends the ball into the box top of the six yard box far post Wilson knocks the ball down for Amy Barber can’t keep her shot down as she goes for goal.

 Toftwood’s Wilson has the ball on the left attacking plenty going forwards for Toftwood in this attack whips the cross into the area trying to pick out Penn in a central position, Talbot nips in ahead of her to clear the ball rolls out to Copeland 25 yards out, looks to play the ball back in with Wilson coming central wanting the ball fed int her feet, can’t take the ball on the move, the Freethorpe defence get it away out to the right, Hart latches onto it one touch before hitting a low drive in towards the near post, Barber down to her left makes the save.

 Getting players forwards Freethorpe are frustrating Toftwood late in the 1st half, Barber the outlet ball on the left. Winning a throw deep on the flank, receives the ball from the long throw turning to hit the ball across the six yard box is deflected into the side netting for a corner. Cleared out of the area Samantha Greenland regains possession for Freethorpe the pass inside to Goodson goes to shoot 25 yards out, the ball charged down by Anthony. 

  GOAL! Closing minutes of the 1st half and Toftwood hit Freethorpe on the counter to retake the lead, North on the ball plays it up through the middle into the box picking out Wilson similar position to the opening goal, hits the shot on the turn left of goal sending the past the keeper into the back of the net. 1-2.

  A late chance for Freethorpe to grab a goal a half chance as Amy Barber pressuring the defence forces and error running in behind left side into the box, Louise is quickly out to slide in and get hold of the ball before the attacker can reach it.
Half-time Freethorpe Ladies 1-2 Toftwood United Ladies

  Toftwood started the match well, attacking early on and taking the lead inside 15 minutes. Freethorpe coming back into the game found the equaliser, were forcing the pace of the game after that for a spell putting pressure on Toftwood’s defence to bring about mistakes, hit on the counter late in the 1st half to go into the dressing room a goal down. All set up for the 2nd half. Two changes for Toftwood at half-time with captain Penn of along with Cross, Laura Harvey and Melanie Freeman on. Thea Wilson wearing the captains armband 2nd half. Freethorpe get the 2nd half underway. Stordy is back on for Freethorpe.
  GOAL! Toftwood extend their lead barely a minute into the 2nd half, Copeland  on the ball has a run at the defence right side stands the ball up lifting it up towards Hooper inside the six yard box at the far post gets up well to head the ball just the right amount of lift to get it up and over Barber trying to reach it drops behind her into the net 1-3. A blow for Freethorpe right at the start of the 2nd half.

Lydia Hooper heading the ball, does the same to score inside the box to make it 3-1 to Toftwood United Ladies

 Toftwood come on again the ball with Harvey played on for Hart wins a corner kick. An inswinging ball coming near post Barber in the Freethorpe goal calls for it and makes a confident claim as she advances. Up the other end Stordy closes the ball down forcing an error as Toftwood try to clear the ball rebounds back into the middle running into the box, Goodson after it, Louise is quickly off her line to the edge of her area to slide in and grab the ball. 

Toftwood’s Copeland battles with Freethorpe’s Elle-Jay Jarvis for the ball

  Hooper gets the ball into her feet on the left a forceful run sends the cross in early curling into the six yard both Barber with a good take gets her gloves firmly on the ball with Wilson running in central. Barber is the out of her box to clear a ball over the top from Toftwood with both Wilson and Hart closing her down. Toftwood’s Wilson goes after the ball played into the left corner area. Time to play the cross in has both Copeland and Hart waiting at the top of the area into Copeland she knocks in on for Hart to strike goalwards her shot dragged wide of the near post.

 With the ball on the right Colbrook tries to get a cross into the box for Freethorpe, wins a throw the ball given to her turns lifts the ball into the box North clears it for Toftwood. The home side make a change Jarvis coming off with Sarah Earl coming on. Barber produces a smart save with her feet as Hart with the ball wide right shows a burst of pace to take it on behind the defence before drilling the ball in towards goal on the angle Barber saving with her foot the ball out for a corner. 

  Majoram brings about an error from Freethorpe as she pushes forwards with the ball a miscued clearance bringing a corner kick on the left, North to take plays it into Copeland near side top of the area her touch deflecting the ball into the six yard box, Barnes clears for Freethorpe. 

Summer Copeland gets up to win the ball fr Toftwood from the corner
  GOAL! Toftwood extend their lead 18 minutes into the 2nd half, has to go down as an own goal but is very unfortunate from Barber. Harvey is advancing with the ball inside right for Toftwood 20 yards out looks to send a ball into the box comes in at a vicious height near post Barber jumping up to try and get a glove on the ball manages to knock it out of the air off balance however she falls to the ground the ball loose bounces towards goal, the keeper tries desperately to keep it out with her legs but can’t the ball crossing the line 1-4.

 Toftwood have Freethorpe on the back foot keep coming forwards, Hart on the ball down the right wing sees her cross turned behind by Watts for a corner. Freethorpe clear the initial ball from the set-piece on the right the clearance coming to Hart top of the area lifts the ball back in near side Wilson getting her head to the ball sends a looping header on up into the six yard box, Barber keeps her eyes firmly on the ball not distracted by Hooper closing in to take the ball down into her body cleanly.

 Substitutes for both sides Freethorpe bringing off Wendy Barber with Megan Wilson back on. Toftwood make 3 changes Cross and Penn back on for Ayrton and Majoram, Jordie Head comes on for Copeland. The visitors break with menace 3 forwards moving through the middle Hart on the ball unleashes a shot from the top of the area, Barber saves well the ball cleared out to Head who sends in back in with Wilson moving across the six yard box gets her head to it near post puts the ball wide. An unorthodox save from Barber moments later as the ball over the top sees Head bearing down on goal left side the keeper comes flying out to slide in rolls over in doing so stopping the ball with her bottom as Head leaps over her.

  GOAL! Head has been lively since coming on for Toftwood up front and her energy brings a mistake at the back which she capitalises on getting in behind right side pushing on with the ball hits the shot on the angle plenty of pace on the ball flies past the diving keeper into the goal beyond 1-5.

 Freethorpe reintroduce Jarvis to the action Earl coming off. Little for the Freethorpe attackers to feed on 2nd half, Colbrook is gifted a chance as Louise plays her goal-kick straight at her, 25 yards out goes for goal, on target Louise gets behind it to gather on the bounce.

Freethorpe Ladies, Andrea Colbrook

  GOAL! Toftwood go forwards the ball played out to Harvey onto Hart down the right takes the ball all the way to the byline cutting inside into the box looks to send the ball across the six yard box, hits a Freethorpe defender the deflection helps it on to the top of the six yard box with Head racing onto the ball smashes her shot into the back of the net 1-6.


  Freethorpe haven’t pressured the Toftwood defence like they did 1st half aren’t getting anything up front as a result, when they do get the ball into the box, Louise in the Toftwood goal has more often than not come for it. Watts gets hold of the ball taking it inside Amy Barber moves into the area the cross in towards her the Toftwood keeper slides in to claim at her feet.
 
A hat-trick for Toftwood United
Ladies, Jordie Head

  GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes of the game Toftwood extend their lead further. Freeman on for Hart down the right carries the ball to the top of the area before unleashing a stinging drive towards goal, Barber throws herself at it falling gets her gloves to the ball knocking it to the ground, Wilson is racing in near post and 1st to arrive wraps her foot over the ball to send it home for her hat-trick 1-7.

 
  GOAL! Goal number 7 is quickly followed by goal number 8, little Barber can do about this one as 2nd half substitute Head completes her hat-trick the ball rolled into her 25 yards out back to goal spins inside and sends a shot arrowing into the top corner of the goal 1-8.

 Wilson comes off late for Toftwood, Majoram back on. The visitors have a corner on the right the ball played into Harvey near post inside the six yard box scuffs her attempted shot the ball rolling into Majoram ahead of her the angle against her as she goes for goes puts her strike behind for a goal-kick. The final whistle blows and Toftwood with a dominant 2nd half display win their 1st league game of the season.
Full time Freethorpe Ladies 1-8 Toftwood United Ladies

  Well I certainly didn’t see that 2nd half coming after the 1st half. Totally different story 2nd half Toftwood with a quick fire goal making it 3-1 went on to dominate the attack Getting plenty of bodies forwards and creating goal scoring chances. Freethorpe after a good display 1st half getting back into the game, didn’t put the pressure on the ball 2nd half that had brought about the success 1st half. Let their heads drop too early. Little time to lick their wounds the two sides meet again in the league next Sunday, Freethorpe making the trip to Dereham.
  Good to see both sides in action at last. My thanks as always to both clubs for their help with the team details today always appreciated.

Match Report – Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

Sunday’s match action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 2nd Round of the FAWPL Cup an all South East Division One clash between Gillingham FC Ladies and Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

Match Report – Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

 
  This Sunday’s match on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 2nd Round of the FA Women’s Premier League Cup an all South East Division One clash between Gillingham FC Ladies & Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

  A Determining Round played at the start of the competition with the winning sides going on to contest the FAWPL Cup, the losing sides going into the FAWPL Plate.

  Gillingham FC Ladies are unbeaten in all competitions at the start of the season. Games in hand on all the sides above them in the table currently in 7th spot. Beat Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies 4-0 away from home in the Determining Round with a bye in the 1st Round now play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2 places above them in the league for a place in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup. Felicity Gibbons returns to the club after spells with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses. Vicky Ashton-Jones and Amy Taylor who both played a large part in helping Brighton & Hove Albion WFC to the FAWPL Southern Division title last season have also come in at the start of the season.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are 3 points above Gillingham in the FAWPL South East Division One table in 5th spot with 4 wins from 7 league games so far this season. Have a new manager with James Honeyman taking charge of the 1st team. Beat Luton Town Ladies away from home in the Determining Round to enter the FAWPL Cup proper had a bye in the 1st Round. Kara Howes has resigned for the club after being with WSL 2 side London Bees. Rebecca Vass, Bedford Ladies captain last season was also signed at the start of the season. 

  Gillingham FC Ladies have a new home this season, Corinthians FC. Just off the A2 through the villages of Bean and Longfield, ignoring the ‘Road Closed’ signs you find it just fine. In the countryside a picturesque setting you come to the Corinthian Sports Club a multi-purpose sports facility with a farmyard beyond, which you’ll end up in if you follow the Sat Nav, however there is a gate which I suspect is unlocked on most match days at that end. A large clubhouse with a bar upstairs refreshments hot and cold available. The ground itself is very nice a small seated stand behind one goal plus a small stand on one side. More seating in front of the building housing the changing rooms in on corner overlooking a large pitch, plenty of width on this on, not the flattest but in great condition nevertheless. A bright sunny day clouds dotted around but a warm afternoon, will enjoy them whilst they last.

 Gillingham FC Ladies starting XI – Katie Startup, Ellie Manning, Grace Seely, Charlie Thurston, Vicky Ashton-Jones, Rachel Ahern, Jade Keogh (C), Katie Hardaker, April Bowers, Harriett Chapman & Felicity Gibbons.
 subs – Courtney Shanly, Bethany Nugent & Kallie Balfour.

 Milton Keynes Don Ladies starting XI – Emma Kirby, Kara Howes, Samantha Gillings, Leanne Doyle, Vicky Holland, Charley Clark (C), Heather McDonnell, Charly Wright, Hannah Barrett, Leah Cudone & Rebecca Vass. 
 subs – Anna Loftus & Louise Naylor.

  Gillingham FC Ladies were without a few 1st team regulars but do have a large squad of players to draw from and with the games already building up the squad will be needed although absences and injuries see only 3 named on the bench, one of those goalkeeper Courtney Shanly with Katie Startup recently returned from Jordan having represented England Lionesses side in the U17s World Cup starting between the sticks. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies name a strong starting XI but a light on the bench with just the 2 substitutes to call upon. It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies kitted out in red shirts and shorts with a black and white band down the sides, along with red socks with a black and white band. Gillingham lined up opposite wearing blue shirts with a vertical white stripe down the right, blues shorts with a white bands around the left leg and white socks with blue at the top.

  From kick-off, Milton Keynes look to get the ball out to Leah Cudone on the right bringing the ball down looks to knock it past Gillingham’s Ellie Manning, the full back gets a foot in to win the ball, plays it in field into Katie Hardaker through the middle up to Felicity Gibbons leading the line holding the ball up has Harriett Chapman making a run on the left sends the ball out to her, Milton Keynes, Kara Howes running with her to win the ball tackles to put it out for a throw.

MK Dons Ladies, Leah Cudone tussles with Gillingham
FC Ladies, Ellie Manning for the ball

   Gillingham have started the match brightly have the ball inside the Milton Keynes half, Gibbons with the ball at her feet back to goal looks to link up with April Bowers on the right, her cross lifted up towards the penalty spot is headed clear of the area by Milton Keynes centre back Vicky Holland. Picking the ball up from half-way Gillingham captain, Jade Keogh carries it forwards rolls the pass into Bowers moving right, sends it on for Gibbons breaking into the box on the right side right of goal moving into the six yard box, looks to shoot the angle tight doesn’t get a very good connection with the ball runs tamely into the gloves of Milton Keynes goalkeeper, Emma Kirby.

 

Gillingham FC Ladies
April Bowers

Milton Keynes are sitting back inviting Gillingham on to them, defending the final ball played in towards the box. Bowers is over a free-kick won in front of the centre circle after Gibbons is fouled, plays the ball up in towards the D Milton Keynes, Leanne Doyle clears it with her head. Chapman pushes forwards with the ball on the right for the home side passes inside to Hardaker, aims her pass towards Gibbons wanting the ball inside the D, Holland marking her closely gets her foot in to push the ball away from the attacker.

  Milton Keynes are defending well, deep however the starting platform to get the ball into Rebecca Vass and Cudone up top is giving the Gillingham defence time to get bodies behind the ball. Gibbons is fouled in a central position a little closer to goal this time striking distance Bowers goes for goal sends her shot over the bar. A clash of heads between Howes and Chapman sees Milton Keynes down to 10 whilst the defender receives treatment for a small cut on her mouth. Attacking Hannah Barrett gets the ball over the top for Vass, Vicky Ashton-Jones tackles getting the ball into Chapman left driving forwards with the ball sends the ball in field is helped on to the right of the pitch the cross swept in near post Gibbons arriving leaps heads the ball down towards goal, Kirby saves getting down low to get hold of the ball. 

Rebecca Vass attempts to control the ball before Vicky Ashton-Jones can make the tackle

  Milton Keynes, Hannah Barrett nipping in to win the ball inside her own half lifts it forwards over the top Vass breaking clear of the Gillingham defence gives chase, Startup is quickly off her line to come out of her area to kick the ball clear. Rachel Ahern brings the ball on up the right attacking for Gillingham crosses early the ball into Chapman coming central closing in on the D, hits the shot on the turn blasting it against a Milton Keynes defender the block rolling towards Bowers 25 yards out hits the shot 1st time races wide of the target.

  Despite all of the chances in attack Gillingham have created so far 1st half the best one falls to Milton Keynes as they win a free-kick inside the Gillingham half inside the centre circle an opportunity to bring players forwards from the back, Barrett to deliver the ball lifts it high towards the players gathered left of goal inside the area, Doyle with a great run peels in behind the back jumping gets her head to the ball drives it goalwards, Startup near post makes an excellent save pushing the ball into the air falling back across the goal Vass following in leaps up trying to nod it home from close range her attempt cannoning off the crossbar bounces down into the six yard box, Gillingham scramble it clear.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Leanne Doyle

 Milton Keynes come forwards again the ball with Heather McDonnell in midfield played on to Charly Wright left her pass forwards into the middle picking out Vass central 25 yards out gets the shot away angling away to the left Startup shifting across gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Cudone finding herself out on the left side has the ball at her feet drives forwards towards the Gillingham box rides 2 challenges before pulling the trigger 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. 

  Charlie Thurston fouls Vass up near half-way the free-kick awarded another chance for the visitors to bring players forwards, Barrett plays the ball long up towards the D, Wright goes up to head the ball, doesn’t get a good connection, instead it is deflected wide right into the box, Holland gets hold of it plays the ball back in to Wright who wraps her foot over the ball meeting it on the volley her effort sails high over the crossbar. Late into the 1st half Milton Keynes make a change, Barrett can’t continue is replaced by Louise Naylor.

  Cudone still out on the left gets forwards, Milton Keynes captain, Charley Clark giving her the ball moving forwards tries a 1 2 with Vass outside the box shooting sends the ball wide past the post from 25 yards out. Up the other end Gillingham are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position on the left 22 yards from goal. Bowers over the ball goes for goal getting the ball over the wall, it falls straight into the gloves of Kirby. A late corner on the left for Milton Keynes following good work from Wright on the left the ball is angled in towards the near post headed on across the face of goal and out for a goal-kick far side. The last action of the 1st half.

April Bowers goes for goal from the free-kick late in the 1st half for Gillingham FC Ladies
Half-time Gillingham FC Ladies 0-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Gillingham have been the dominant side in the 1st half having had more of the ball and the attack however haven’t a goal to show for it. Milton Keynes have sat back in defence and wit no room to get in behind have dealt with most things well played up into the box, have struggled to get their strikers into the game defending so deep waiting for Gillingham to make an error then nipping in on the ball sending it forwards, have had the best chance of the half hitting the crossbar.
  Anna Loftus is on for Milton Keynes at the start of the 2nd half with McDonnell the player off. Gillingham make a change at half-time too with striker Kallie Balfour coming on for midfielder Hardaker. A change of formation for the home side going to 3 at the back Gibbons dropping deeper with Balfour now leading the attack. The ball is with Balfour straight away down the right moving into space taking it on to the byline cuts her cross back into the six yard box is cleared behind for a corner by Holland. Coming towards the ball Balfour receiving the ball inside the box plays it back to Gibbons the corner taker, from the angle she sweep a shot in towards the far post, the Milton Keynes defender covering the post clears the ball. The clearance lands outside the box, Seely latches onto it her strike low into the crowded area is blocked then cleared.

Charley Clark and Kallie Balfour contest the ball

  GOAL! Barely 5 minutes into the 2nd half and Balfour’s introduction makes the difference the ball given to her as she moves to the left side turns and heads for goal a powerful run with the ball at her feet entering the box from the left gets the shot away firing the ball across Kirby at the near post and into the back of the net beyond 1-0.

  Coming forwards from the back Ahern covers alot of grass before delivering a cross into the box from the right on the diagonal in towards Gibbons who jumps for the ball but can’t make contact as the cross flies over her. A sloppy ball at the back by Gillingham allows Wright to steal in take the ball on the left pushes on up the wing, Ashton-Jones gets back on her to tackle put the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly Wright throws it back to Gillings coming up to support the full-back sweeps a cross into the box players running in it’s Ashton-Jones who gets her head to the ball to clear for Gillingham.

Charly Wright on the ball of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Getting forwards down the right, Seely now playing wing back has Balfour making a run out to this side rolls the ball into her run the striker taking the ball on down the wing squares a pacey ball in along the face of goal, running along the ground Chapman has gotten into a central position the ball just evades her feet before being cleared far post.

 
  GOAL! Gillingham extend their lead as the 60th minute arrives the ball is brought into the Milton Keynes half by Keogh her forwards pass picking out Gibbons outside the area left of the D helps the ball on into the area with Balfour peeling off her marker into space right of goal, strikes the ball in centrally is straight at Kirby who gets down to gather the ball is unfortunate as the ball squirms through her gloves and under her body to roll into the net beyond 2-0.

2nd half substitute Kallie Balfour
scores twice for Gillingham

  Naylor plays the ball forwards in beyond the Gillingham defence for Vass to chase into the box, Ashton-Jones on her shoulder, Startup looks to come forwards, Ashton-Jones takes no chances slides a foot in to push the ball away from Vass send it out to the left where it is picked up by Wright whips the ball back into the area, Vass dropping away to the far post area stoops to head the ball is off target but deflects off a defender for a corner.

  Vass plays the ball forwards for Cudone this time to chase into the area hesitation between Startup ad Thurston allows Cudone a chance to get a shot away is off balance however and can only prod the ball straight at Startup who pushes it away with her feet, the ball cleared to the right beyond. Wright gets her foot to the ball as it is delivered long into the box from the right, falling back as she volleys the ball left of goal sends her shot over the bar. Playing in a deeper role 2nd half, Gibbons comes on with the ball, no one closing her down lets fly from 30 yards out her shot flies over the crossbar. 

  Gillingham make their 2nd change with Ahern coming off for Bethany Nugent a straight swap at the back. Keogh carrying the ball forwards passes to Balfour moving left in front of her, turning with the ball at her feet drives into the box shooting the ball lacks any pace doesn’t trouble Kirby at her near post the keeper gathering the ball. 

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Samantha Gillings

  Gillings bringing the ball on from the back up the left plays it on for Wright her pass forwards sees Cudone after the ball, shoulder to shoulder with Ashton-Jones the defender ends up on the ground as the ball runs behind a corner kick awarded. Is a great delivery from the left played in towards Clark inside the bx at the near post jumping gets a firm header on the ball turning it towards goal, Startup throws her gloves up the ball past her strikes the crossbar, deflected out to the left and cleared for a throw.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies captain, Charley Clark watches as her header heads towards goal

  A long crossfield ball plays Seely into space on the right taking the ball down into the corner puts the ball into the area a good delivery inswinging central under the bar 2 Gillingham plays closing in on her Kirby going up for it loses it under challenge dropping is cleared off the line by Howes at the far post. Kirby holds onto a powerful strike from Gibbons inside the box as Balfour plays her in receiving the ball on the left sending in on across the D into Gibbons whose shot is angled straight at the keeper.

Gillingham FC Ladies captain, Jade Keogh

  A good tackle from Ashton-Jones at the back for Gillingham to concede a throw on the left as Loftus goes forwards for Milton Keynes looking to get in behind as Wright sends the ball on up the wing. With Milton Keynes pushing players on late into the game Gillingham aren’t interested in running the ball into the corner counter attack Keogh on the ball moves to within 25 yards of goal fires a low shot into the box is cleared the ball coming back to the Gillingham captain hits a swerving shot back in towards goal, moving across her line Kirby gets hold of the ball. As Milton Keynes blast a long range strike wide of goal up the other ed the referee blows the final whistle and it’s Gillingham who advance to the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.
  

Full time Gillingham FC Ladies 2-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  A good contest, Gillingham eventually coming out on top adjusting things 2nd half after a goalless 1st 45 minutes. Dominated play but couldn’t break down a well drilled Milton Keynes defence sitting deep. The introduction of Balfour 2nd half altering things found space and with it 2 goals. Milton Keynes were 2nd best today despite hitting the crossbar from a set-piece in each half had less of the attack and few chances for their attackers to test the Gillingham goal. 
 My thanks to Jenny and Julian from Gillingham as well as Laura from Milton Keynes for their help with the teams today, always appreciated.

Match Report – Netherton United Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

Sunday’s match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership, a trip to Peterborough to watch Netherton United Ladies play Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

Match Report – Netherton United Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

 
  A trip to Peterborough this Sunday, the venue The Grange to watch a match from the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership with Netherton United Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

  The season in Cambridgeshire has barely gotten started with just a handful of games having taken place in the Premiership to date with 2 of the 9 sides contesting the 2016/17 yet to get going. Both Netherton United Ladies and Cambridge United WFC Reserves have played 2 league matches to date. Both starting with a defeat then bouncing back with a win. 

  Netherton United Ladies run a number of youth sides as well as the ladies 1st team.  Started the season with a 1-0 home defeat against Newmarket Town Ladies, this was followed by 2-0 away defeat in the FA Women’s Cup against higher league opponents Acle United Ladies. Since then however the club has enjoyed a run of 3 successive home games winning all 3 games 1 league and 2 cup matches scoring 19 goals along the way. A 4th successive home win today will see them move to the top of the Premiership, albeit early days.

  Cambridge United WFC Reserves are the current Premiership leaders recovering from a 2-1 defeat against newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day. Won big 2 weeks later scoring 10 goals past another of the promoted sides Bourne Ladies to go to the top, victory today will see them extend that lead. A lot of player movement at the club over the close season new faces in both the 1st team squad (competing in FAWPL South East Division One) and the Reserves as the club looks to push up the women’s football pyramid.

  The venue for today’s league encounter The Grange in Peterborough, to the north of the town centre, the ground at the end of a newly build housing estate boasts a new 3G pitch with room inside for spectators to watch along one side. A clubhouse with bar and hot and cold refreshments available with multiple grass pitches beyond. A nice set-up all the better because the heavy rain that had blown through all morning was finally clear and it was a bright and sunny afternoon, with the odd black cloud dotted about.

  Netherton United Ladies starting XI – Katie Cooper, Lucy Johnson, Dita Upesjure, Camen Giles, Hannah Johnson, Jenna Nairn, Megan Parrett (C), Alice MacNicol, Georgia Parrett, Yasmin Green & Emily Johnson.
  subs – Lauren McKeever, Anna Hatcher & Savannah Evans

  Cambridge United WFC Reserves starting XI – Verity Crook, Sarah Carroll, Carolyn Sarafain, Liz Pamplin, Mel Findlater, Laura Baker, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Emily Ingle (C), Teonie Peyton, Ebony Rule & Lauren Gibson
  subs- Ellen Green, Jess Harvey, McKenzie McGranor & Vicky Hoover.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   A minutes silence held before the game in honour of Paul McCann, a coach with Riverside FC who tragically passed away whilst falling ill competing in the Great Eastern Run recently.
  With Cambridge United WFC’s 1st team game in the FAWPL Cup away to Portsmouth FC Ladies postponed early in the morning the Reserves side was ale to draft in Verity Crook to keep goal for today’s match. New signing Jess Harvey having come in from Peterborough United Ladies was starting on the bench. Netherton United Ladies had a new signing on their bench too, Anna Hatcher joining the club from March Town United Ladies. It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Cambridge wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts. Netherton lined up opposite wearing red and black shirts with black shorts and socks. 
  Cambridge work the ball out to the right wing early on captain Emily Ingle pushing up that side of the pitch to win the ball, her attempted cross blocked by Netherton’s Dita Upesjure defending that side of the pitch the ball out for a throw-in. Linking up with Ebony Rule from the throw Ingle sends the ball into the box, Netherton defend Camen Giles heading the ball clear of the area. The visitors continue to push forwards in the opening exchanges the ball won back in midfield is played up into Teonie Payton inside the D, helps the ball on into the box with Rule getting onto the end of it right of goal, shoots low aiming near post, Netherton goalkeeper Katie Cooper has the angle covered gathers the ball into her arms.
  Netherton get the ball forwards quickly, Jenna Nairn sending it long for Emily Johnson up front to chase, Cambridge are playing with 3 at the back, Johnson runs in behind Carolyn Sarafain on the left of the 3, looks to take the ball on into the area, Sarafain gets back with the attacker getting a foot on the ball to push it away from her runs on to Crook who claims the ball. 
  Pressuring the Netherton defence on the left wing, Peyton wins Cambridge the 1st corner of the game. Is a good delivery fired into the box with plenty of pace, Liz Pamplin (who can and has played in every position on the pitch) is up from the back coming onto the ball gets her head on it, puts it over the crossbar from 10 yards out. Is a competitive game a few strong challenges coming in early on complaints from both sides.
Teonie Peyton on the ball for Cambridge United WFC Reserves
looks to get away from Netherton’s Georgia Parrett
  Mel Findlater pays the ball out of the Cambridge half up to Rule, back to goal she heads the ball down into the advancing Gabrielle Whitehurst she plays it to her midfield partner Laura Baker, returning to action after an injury in early pre-season. 25 yards from goal Baker juggles the ball between her feet before hitting a shot towards goal on the volley, up and over the defence drops safely into Cooper’s gloves. The visitors have Netherton on the back foot in the opening 10 minutes. From a throw on the left side, Lauren Gibson looks to turn on the edge of the box as the ball is played into her feet falling back as she strikes the ball, lacks the power to beat Cooper at her near post.
  GOAL! The early pressure from the visitors tells as they take the lead on 11 minutes, working the ball up the right flank Cambridge win a throw, Ingle and Rule link up to get the ball into the box, a Netherton defender throws a leg out to deflect the ball out of the area is loose as it runs across the D central, is a race for the ball, Baker for Cambridge getting there just ahead of the defender takes the ball inside past her then hits a right foot shot low across the keeper into the bottom corner for her 1st goal of the season 0-1.
 
Laura Baker with the opening goal of the game for Cambridge United WFC Reserves
  Netherton look to move the ball forwards from the restart, captain Megan Parrett in midfield plays the ball out to Emily Johnson moving right to the right, turns back inside passing the ball inside to the advancing Nairn central, picks out Alice MacNicol coming inside from the left getting hold of the ball as she runs inside the box, left of goal the angle is against her as she squeezes a shot away the ball running along the ground Crook down to collect at her near post.
  The game is stretched from one end to the other with Cambridge playing it over the top for Gibson, Cooper rushing out of her box to kick clear manages to pick out Johnson on the right side, Georgia Parrett makes a run inside receives the ball, hits the cross on the move outside the box, Yasmin Green is there on the penalty spot the ball just evades her as she throws a leg at it. MacNicol has a pop at goal from distance for Netherton up and over the Cambridge defence like Baker’s earlier effort drops safely for Crook to take cleanly.
  A throw on the left deep inside the Netherton half brings Cambridge a corner kick the delivery his headed near post by Gibson into the middle of the area, Megan Parrett heads the ball away. A freaky deflection puts Cambridge’s Rule in on goal as Hannah Johnson’s attempted clearance smashes against her own team mate having push out from the back the deflection sees the ball spin in behind Rule reacting quickest is after it carrying the ball into the area is one on one with the keeper, her touch just a fraction heavy as she arrives in the box allowed Cooper committed to sliding in at her feet to get hold of the ball pull it into her body on the ground.
 The strong tackling continues and Cambridge feeling they aren’t getting the decisions are making their protests vocal. Johnson is caught in possession at the back by Gibson the Cambridge striker nicking the ball on the left outside the box, takes it on into the area looks to curl the ball into the top corner across goal, good save from Cooper as she throws herself at the ball pushes it wide her defence clearing far side. Cambridge keep possession inside the Netherton half, Sarafain coming forwards as Peyton wins a throw on the left, linking up with Baker, Sarafain is played in down the line coming into the area her cross is deflected behind by Hannah Johnson for a corner kick. The delivery into the six yard box his headed up into the air by Parrett, dropping amongst bodies is cleared away to the left top of the area, Baker latching onto the ball sends it back in towards goal, Cooper dives as the ball goes across her goal but leaves it confident it is racing wide.
 

Netherton United Ladies, Alice MacNicol

Peyton has said too much for the referees liking and get’s her name in the book. Winning the ball wide on the right for Netherton, Georgia Parrett passes the ball in field into Nairn has MacNicol to her left plays the ball into her feet takes on the strike from distance whipping the ball up over the Cambridge defence from outside the box the shot whistles over the crossbar. Giles takes a painful knock defending for Netherton at the back, wants to continue but can’t the home side making a change sending on Anna Hatcher to join the defence. 

  Play is drawn over the the right of the pitch with Cambridge attacking, Peyton moving central is in space and play is spread across to her as Gibson holds the ball up before laying it into Baker her pass finding Peyton, takes the ball on into the box, Netherton’s Lucy Johnson gets back to try and force for wide of goal, left of the target getting closed down, Peyton gets a shot away with the outside of her boot runs wide across the face of goal. Rule is played in on goal moments later Gibson playing her in behind her shot is blasted in wide of the goal.
  GOAL! Late into the 1st half and Cambridge double their lead. Are awarded a free-kick some 40 yards out to the right of the Netherton box. Baker over the ball as players pile forwards, flights the ball into the area near post area, 2 Netherton defenders go for it comes off the shoulder of one falling inside the six yard box favourably for Cambridge’s Whitehurst travelling forwards, the ball dropping into her path makes no mistake getting her foot over the ball sending her shot across the goal and into the back of the net 0-2.
 
Gabrielle Whitehurst scores late in the 1st half for Cambridge United WFC Reserves
  
Half-time Netherton United Ladies 0-2 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  A goal at either end of the 1st half sees Cambridge lead the match 2-0 with a strong 1st half display. Creating plenty of opportunities inside the Netherton final 3rd have had the home side on the back foot for much of the 1st 45 minutes. A few of the Netherton players letting themselves get distracted by the verbals flying around haven’t been at their best. Haven’t been able to get their strikers in behind the Cambridge back 3 who have won most things in the air. 2-0 is always a tricky scoreline all to often the next goal has a huge influence on where the final result will go as the 2 sides line up for the 2nd half, Netherton to kick-off.
  An early corner for Cambridge as Baker gets her foot on the ball sends a pass out to Ingle wide on the right taking the ball down the line Upesjure prevents the cross coming in turning the ball behind. The ball is sent long across the top of the six yard box, Pamplin far side gets something on the ball sends it high over the top of goal. 
  GOAL! An early goal in the 2nd half for Cambridge sees them extend their lead. Peyton full of running on the left wins the visitors a throw the ball is retained that side as players drift forwards through the middle, Findlater having been shielding the back 3 for much of the game is up field in front of the Netherton area as the ball is played in towards her left of the D she sees the bouncing ball onto her foot hitting it on the half volley getting it up and over the keeper to drop into the back of the net beyond with just 4 minutes of the 2nd half played 0-3. Her 1st goal for Cambridge.
Mel Findlater with her 1st goal for the
club early in the 2nd half to make it 3-0
  Netherton win a free kick the ball is played up towards the D, MacNicol inside in attempts to control her header the ball evading her, Cambridge fail to clear it rolling back to Nairn in midfield, MacNicol comes across to the left to receive the ball, shifts it between her feet to evade a challenge and runs with the ball down the line cutting it back on the byline into the middle of the area runs straight towards Green on the penalty spot, looks to open her body take her shot into the far corner the ball rolls the wrong side of the post.   
   Peyton wins Cambridge a corner attacking down the right. The ball in is headed back out to the right by Hatcher. Peyton to put the ball back into the box is headed down into the ground by Hannah Johnson, Whitehurst outside the box gets her foot over the bouncing ball gets her shot through the crowd, no trouble for Cooper as it runs wide of goal. Megan Parrett having taken a knock comes off for Netherton, Lauren McKeever coming on into midfield. 
  Lucy Johnson brings the ball up the right for Netherton rolls in into Georgia Parrett plays the ball inside into Green who strikes the ball early from outside the box, doesn’t get off the ground rolls straight towards Crook who has time to set herself and gather. Savannah Evans comes on for Netherton. Cambridge make a change too bringing on McKenzie McGranor for Peyton. Straight away the substitute has a chance on goal ahead of play as the ball is played out from the back comes in field with Ingle moving inside helps the ball on into the box from 25 yards out McGranor gets her head on the ball tries to power it around Cooper pushes the ball wide of goal. A free kick in a dangerous area outside the box for Netherton as McKeever is fouled by Whitehurst. 25 yards out MacNicol over the ball goes for the shot her effort flashing over the crossbar. 
Netherton United Ladies, Lucy Johnson
  2nd change for the visitors as Rule comes off, Jess Harvey comes on to make her debut. Cambridge have a corner on the left. Before it is taken Netherton make a change Megan Parrett back on with Georgia coming off. Lucy Johnson does well for Netherton defending the corner getting hold of the ball play it out of the area before sending it up field, Baker from a deeper position regains possession looks to send the ball into the area, too long Cooper reaching up can pull the ball down into her body.
   Whitehurst bringing the ball over half-way passes into Gibson back to goal holds it up with Baker going past making a move to get into the box, Gibson attempts to roll the ball into her path inside the box Cooper commits early coming out to the edge of her area sliding in to push the ball away from the attacker. Harvey getting hold of the ball on the wing looks to lift the ball back in towards goal, Cooper back on her feet quickly snatches the ball down holding onto the shot. 
   Cambridge bring players forward to attack another corner kick on the left, the initial ball into the box is headed back out towards the taker Ingle, sends the ball back in central, Gibson tries to get her head on the ball, Hatcher defends well getting their 1st to clear the ball. Linking up on the right side, Ingle plays the ball down the line for Harvey, Upesjure stops the cross conceding the corner. The ball comes in quickly along the six yard box, is on Gibson far post area before she get her head under the ball, deflects off her up over the bar.
Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Jess Harvey with
Netherton’s Dita Upesjure
  Baker has the ball at her feet outside the Netherton area, moves forwards with it shifting it between her feet before shooting, taking a deflection the ball runs wide for a corner kick on the left. Cooper gets up amongst the crowd gathered near post to punch the ball on wide across the six yard box. A double change for Cambridge, Carroll and Findlater coming off, Ellen Green and Vicky Hoover coming on with 15 minutes left to play. Has been a heated contest between Hannah Johnson and Gibson all game both are called to the referee, Gibson yellow carded for dissent when her objections go too far. 
Lauren Gibson & Anna Hatcher
  Harvey attempts to turn in behind to attack the box on the right side outside the box as Whitehurst gets the ball into her feet, moving into the box Upesjure recovers to close her down and slides in to take the ball out for a corner. Going long the ball is cleared the area cleared, Cambridge come again Hoover winning the ball deep in midfield plays it into Baker who picks out Harvey right, crosses the ball along to face of the box for Gibson closed down quickly by Hatcher shifts the ball to get a shot away doesn’t get a good connection with the ball spins wide along the ground. Gibson’s last action of the game as she comes off, Rule back on. 
  Baker is brought down right on the edge of the area as she attempts to get into the box, left of the D it’s Baker over the ball, goes for goal her six flashing wide across the six yard box. A corner for Cambridge left side the delivery whipped into the six yard box, McGranor central gets her head on the ball places it up over the crossbar. Into the final minutes of the match Baker is brought down again 25 yards out in a central position. Pamplin over the set-piece goes for goal the strike heading for the top corner, Cooper throwing herself at the ball may have gotten the slightest touch the ball hitting the crossbar and spinning away to the left.
Liz Pamplin comes close from the set-piece for Cambridge United WFC Reserves
 A corner on the left in injury time, Pamplin closest to it inside the area can’t turn it goalwards plays it back to McGranor who attempts to lift the ball in across the face of goal with the outside of her boot, Green can’t quite reach it as she lunges for it in a central position the ball is cleared as the final whistle blows.
   
Full time Netherton United Ladies 0-3 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  Cambridge win 3-0 a comfortable win to earn the 3 points move onto six points at the top of the table are joined on 6 points by Newmarket Town Ladies who won 2-0 this afternoon too away to St Ives Town. A good performance from the visitors creating alot going forwards the back 3 not letting anything get in behind them. Not too much for Netherton to complain about weren’t at their best today the early goal 2nd half a blow couldn’t find a way back into the game can only get back on the training pitch look to get it right next match.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today much appreciated. 

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the FA Women’s Cup. 64 ties across the country in 3rd Round Qualifying. Travelled down to Cambridgeshire to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies for a place in the next round.

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 
It’s another FA Women’s Cup weekend plenty of mouth watering ties out there in 3rd Round Qualifying as the FAWPL Division One sides enter the competition, 64 games in all. This Sunday the Supporting Women’s Football Blog travels to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Histon Ladies are a new name to women’s football this season however they are an established club in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) playing in the Premier Division previously known as Great Shelford Ladies they are one of the leading women’s football sides in Cambridgeshire. Merging with Histon FC to better strengthen the future longevity of the club as Histon have a girls youth set-up that can now progress into women’s football within the club.Play their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium in Histon just off the A14 north of Cambridge. Were away to Northamptonshire side Moulton Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup won the game 5-2 to set up a home tie against Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies having been relegated from FAWPL Midlands Division One last season are back in the East Midlands Region Women’s Football League (EMWFL) playing in the Premier Division are looking to bounce back up at the 1st attempt have started the season well 2nd in the table from 4 wins out of 4. Today’s away trip their 1st action in this season’s FA Women’s Cup after they were awarded a walk over in the previous round.

  Histon FC’s, Glassworld Stadium the venue for today’s match, a good sized stadium with a large main stand housing the bar over looking one side of the pitch plenty of covered seating, with covered areas running along all sides of the pitch. A large pitch, not the flattest a good covering of grass. A few dark clouds overhead threatening rain later in the afternoon at kick-off the ground was bathed in warm sunshine.

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Helen Slipper, Abigail Davies, Lucy Julian, Claire Andrews, Alison Wright, Clare Creek, Sophie Lanham, Katie Saunders (C), Sophie Ugur, Jordanne Sillitoe & Sophie Hopkin.
 subs – Stacey Roper, Charlotte Westrope & Amanda Binge.

 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Jodie Bartle (C), Larissa Frederick, Samara Iredale, Deva Rawlings, Chanade Henderson, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Katie Steward, Donna Nicholls, Cassie Steward & Vicky Gallagher.
 subs –



   Due to a good number of their players being unable for the fixture Peterborough North Star Ladies had the bare 11 available today. It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half of this FA Women’s Cup tie, wearing white shirts, red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The sun bright when is comes out from behind the clouds posing a potential problem for the Peterborough defence. Win the ball at the back and play it forwards quickly sending a pass long to Cassie Steward peeling out into space on the right, flashes a cross into the Histon area goes long gathered by Donna Nicholls on the left outside the box rolls it inside for Vicky Gallagher her shot is deflected behind for the 1st corner of the game.

   Good start by Peterborough, Cassie Steward moving across the front of the Histon area looking to receive the ball, moves to the left as Chanade Henderson plays the ball forwards, turning inside as she reaches the top of the area Steward attempts to roll the ball across into Gallagher, Histon centre back Claire Andrews makes a timely interception. The home side are awarded a free-kick on halfway left side the ball played up the line is helped on coming into Jordanne Sillitoe outside the Peterborough box left corner hits the shot on the turn, is blocked at close quarters.

  Sophie Ugur on the left side of attack for Histon wins the ball inside her half and brings it forwards, travelling down the line, Peterborough captain, Jodie Bartle looks to push her wide, Ugur manages to check her run turn inside bearing down on the area closely marked tries to play the ball in behind for Sillitoe coming into the area from the right side, the pass is too close to goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson who has moved off her line and gathers. 

Histon Ladies, Sophie Ugur

  Both sides looking to release their attacking players early, Peterborough win a throw on the right as the ball is lifted up into the Histon box. Coming down the line the ball is lifted into the area by Katie Steward, Alison Wright at the back for Histon hooks the ball away to safety. Pushing into the Peterborough half the ball pings around between the midfield players before Sophie Lanham gets her foot on the ball very nearly releases Sophie Hopkin in round the back of the visitors defence, Samara Iredale stretching gets in the path of the ball.

  Breaking up a Peterborough attack, Lucy Julian clears the ball long, the attempted header to clear it at the back for the visitors only succeeds in glancing it on with Sillitoe capitalising racing in behind to bear down on the area. The Peterborough defence recovers well to make up the ground pressure Sillitoe as she reaches the D right side manages to get a shot away, lacking pace it nevertheless beats the advancing Hudson, turns to see the ball roll a foot wide of the post.

  Peterborough push forwards, ex-Lynn Ladies player Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse in the middle battling to win possession of the ball in the middle pushes the ball on for Cassie Steward is tackled outside the box by Claire Creek as she lines up a shot from outside the box. Gallagher has a pop at goal from distance as a clearance runs back to her 40 yards out left side the ball turning away from the target out for a goal-kick. The ball is won back by the visitors from the goal-kick Hopkins-Duckhouse out to Katie Steward on the right squares a cross into the six yard box turned behind for a corner. The corner is cleared near post outside the area Histon give away a free-kick.

Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the ball for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 In front of the D, a good position to shoot from, Gallagher is over the ball for Peterborough, lifts the ball around the wall sending it in on target comes at goalkeeper Katie Slipper at chest height makes the save pushing the ball away to her left conceding a throw. Peterborough are seeing more of the ball as the 1st half reaches the midway point, Larissa Frederick breaks up a Histon attack on the right plays the ball into Henderson in the middle lays it back to Iredale who plays the ball long up field to Cassie Steward moving into space on the right side, takes the ball on into the area shoots as Slipper starts to come the keeper makes the save the ball blocked deflected behind for the corner kick. the corner from the right is fizzed in low towards Bartle moving towards it top of the area, hits the shot as it runs onto her boot turns it towards goal lands in the side netting. 

  Hopkins-Duckhouse gets the ball out to Gallagher on the left side the striker driving up the line with the ball turns in field reaching the edge of the area pulls the trigger shooting near post, Slipper gets down in an attempt to stop it, a loud thump as the ball cannons off the base of the post. Gallagher is then caught offside as Frederick sends the ball out of the back as she tackles Sillitoe. Lanham in midfield for Histon sends the ball over the top putting Hopkin in behind, Bartle gets back with her shoulder to shoulder as they reach to top of the area the defender getting a toe on the ball to push it back to her keeper. 

 Deva Rawlings brings the ball on through the middle for Peterborough plays in on for Henderson who looks to put Cassie Steward through on goal, Wright closes her down tackling to put the ball out for a throw on the right. Lanham looks to release Ugur on the left side for Histon into the visitors half Bartle gets across to make the tackle upends Ugur, gets enough of the ball however in runs long out for a corner kick. Histon captain, Katie Saunders to take the corner kick a good delivery flashed across the Peterborough six yard box, Sillitoe rising far post can’t get anything on the ball. 

Peterborough’s Deva Rawlings with Histon’s Katie Saunders

  Counter attack from Peterborough the ball played up to Henderson on the halfway line on the left side holds the ball up well as her teammates bomb forwards, pushing in field plays the ball central to Gallagher she helps it on for Katie Steward to her right 25 yards out right of goal Steward goes for goal hitting an vicious ball in swerves in the air slightly taking it away from Slipper diving across her goal, smashes against the post and rebounds across the six yard box, Gallagher coming in on the follow up can’t get a touch on the ball as it flies across her, Abigail Davies sends it clear of the Histon area.

 

  Saunders plays the ball forwards for Histon, Hopkin up top gives chase is pushed wide as she retains possession of the ball taking it into the left corner has Ugur available up the line passing the ball to her looks to travel inside with the ball, is brought down the free-kick given away. Lanham over the set-piece 25 yards out to the left of the box, gets the ball up into the air on target, Hudson shifting across her goal is able to get behind the shot and gather into her body.

Sophie Lanham sends watches her free-kick fly in towards the Peterborough goal.

  Peterborough have Henderson on the ball the middle holds the ball up back to goal before turn cleverly and threading the ball in behind for Gallagher to run onto unleashes a shot early outside the box left of the D, comes at Slipper quickly a good reactive save with her feet to stop the shot is deflected back out of the area into the D with Cassie Steward running onto it, intending to hit it hard, does so, Wright throwing herself in front of the attacker blocks the shot sending it out for a throw on the right as the game moves into 1st half injury time.

 GOAL! From the throw-in Peterborough take the lead netting right on the stroke of half-time. Cassie and Katie Steward combine on that side of the pitch to work the ball on down the right wing the cross is fired into the six yard box running in with pace along the ground, Gallagher is well positioned in the middle leaning back as the ball runs onto her boot turns it into the back of the net to give the visitors the lead 0-1.

Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies
 Right on the stroke of half-time Peterborough get themselves in front, have had the better of the attack, striking the woodwork twice. The goal a blow for Histon late in the 1st half denting the confidence having battled to keep it to 0-0 for so long. A narrow advantage at the break the next goal could well be a crucial one. Histon, once Creek emerges from the tunnel have kick-off 2nd half looking to get back on level terms.
 An early counter 2nd half for Peterborough as they win possession of the ball in the middle, Rawlings on for Cassie Steward who has made a run to get clear of the Histon defence right of goal, bearing down on the box is closed down, shoots as she is challenged falling back doesn’t get much power behind the shot runs safely through to Slipper inside her six yard box. 
 Sillitoe is fouled on the right as she takes the ball on inside the Peterborough half. Saunders on the ball sends it long into the box aiming near post the attempted defensive clearance sends the ball on across the six yard box Iredale rises far side to head the ball out of the area, falls to Ugur outside the box attempts to flight the ball back in her effort lands on the roof of the net.
  A powerful run on the ball down the right for Peterborough’s Katie Steward sends it on for Cassie Steward who whips a curling cross into the Histon area, Wright just about gets something on the ball backpedalling with Gallagher coming in central, runs on across the area, Davies tries to push it further wide, runs to Nicholls left side in the box, hits the shot in towards goal, Davies blocks it the ball spinning wide across the face of goal for a corner kick. The corner from the right side is played in deep to the top of the area, Iredale gets up well to head the ball on target bouncing down is knocked away from goal by Hopkins-Duckhouse inside the six yard box in front of the keeper as she attempts to help it on into the back of the net.
Katie Steward battles with Histon’s Sophie Ugur for the ball
  The ball is played up the right side by Davies at the back for Histon looking to pick out Sillitoe on the wing, Frederick gets across her to play the ball out for the throw, take quickly the ball is played inside into Sillitoe outside the box on the right, flicks the ball up and hits the shot on the turn lifting the ball up into the air lands on the roof of the net. 
Histon Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe with, Peterborough’s Larissa Frederick
  Rawlings on the ball for Peterborough passes on to Hopkins-Duckhouse, breaking forwards with pace she sends the ball forwards into the area on for Gallagher central, the challenge comes in as much of the Peterborough striker is caught as the ball as it is pushed wide, the advantage to the visitors with Katie Steward latching onto the ball, drills a shot in towards goal from 12 yards runs wide of the near post.
  Peterborough are starting to dominate pushing players forwards putting the Histon back line under pressure. The ball finds its way out to Nicholls on the left pushes on into the box Davies closing her down manages to push her wide getting into the six yard box, Nicholls squeezes a shot away the ball in low towards the near post, Slipper down sharply looks for a moment the ball might sneak in past her however the goalkeeper has done enough to kill the balls pace with her initial save, grabs it from going over the line. Katie Steward attacking on the right cuts inside into the box lets fly with a rasping effort on the angle, Slipper covering her near post makes the save pushing the ball behind for the corner. A good delivery from the set-piece on the right the ball headed on by Iredale near post is nodded down by Henderson far post to Nicholls outside the area takes the ball into the middle letting loose a shot inside the D, coming through bodies Slipper is in the right place to see the shot gathers it into her body.
  GOAL! Busy start to the 2nd half just a quarter of an hour played, the 2nd goal of the game comes as Peterborough building the momentum double their advantage. The visitors push players into the box for a corner on the right side the delivery is in towards the top of the area the ball helped on for Nicholls in a central position moves the ball on into the D before unleashing a strike, her effort smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box, the only player to react is Hopkins-Duckhouse right side inside the six yard box, puts her shot straight at Slipper the keeper parrying the ball down, giving Hopkins-Duckhouse another stab a goal send the ball across the keeper this time into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club 0-2.
 
Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse nets Peterborough’s 2nd goal
  Histon respond with a double change midfielders Lanham and Creek coming off to be replaced by Stacey Roper and Charlotte Westrope. Henderson and Nicholls combine in attack for Peterborough as the ball is worked out to the left, Henderson helping it on for Nicholls on the wing, brings the ball inside into the area, Davies on her giving no room for a shot or turn Nicholls lays the ball back out of the area to Henderson takes on the 1st time shot, lifts the ball up over the crossbar.
 GOAL! 5 minutes after going 2 up Peterborough extend their lead, putting pressure on the goal-kick as they have for much of the 2nd half the ball is won by Henderson with Gallagher already on the move to get in behind the Histon defence into the box Henderson plays the ball into her run, Slipper already on the move to close her down slides in, Gallagher coolly takes the ball around her to the right and taking a stride forwards sends the ball into the empty net beyond 0-3.
  GOAL! No sooner have they taken a 3-0 lead Peterborough go on to add a 4th goal. Pushing right from the restart forcing Histon to give the ball away inside their own half have the home side stretched as the ball is played forwards into Nicholls, Gallagher moves out to the left wing looking for the pass taking up the space Nicholls was heading for the winger gives her the ball and turns back inside looking to get into the area as Gallagher takes the ball down the line cuts the cross back into the box, stretching Wright almost gets it away, runs on for Nicholls far post outside the six yard box gets her foot up over the ball to turn it over the line to score 0-4.
 
  3 goals in 7 minutes have totally altered the game Peterborough getting on top and getting the goals, Histon look shell-shocked losing their shape in danger of conceding more as Henderson carries the ball through the centre of midfield plays the ball out to Cassie Steward moving right into the box hits the shot on the run plants the ball into the side netting. Henderson on the ball in the middle again plays the ball into the area for Gallagher drifting free on the left of the six yard box drags her shot wide across the face of goal. 
  GOAL! A devastating spell from the visitors to take a firm grip on this FA Women’s Cup tie as they go on to score again a 4th goal in an 11 minute burst. Rawlings bringing the ball on plays it forwards for Katie Steward her pass inside to Cassie Steward she goes for the shot from outside the box. Coming in low Slipper diving to her left manages to get a glove on the ball push it wide, running across goal, Nicholls is free that side running onto the ball inside the six yard box buries it into the roof of the net to make it 0-5.
 
  Roper comes deep to to receive the ball for Histon, holding it up well gets it out to the right for Sillitoe, manages to evade Frederick’s tackle taking the ball on rushes her shot from outside the box the ball swinging wide of goal. Histon make a change at the back, Wright has collected a series of knocks to her ankle is replaced by Amanda Binge. I retreat to the cover of the stands as a heavy sprawl of rain blows across the pitch. Henderson sees the ball into her feet inside the box from Hopkins-Duckhouse for Peterborough holding it up lays it into the D for Gallagher, falling back as she hits the shot her effort runs wide of the target.
 

Abigail Davies gets the ball clear
for Histon Ladies

Cassie Steward stands with her hands on her hips inside the Histon box bemused as her attempt to lob the keeper from inside the box as the ball is sent over the top results with her effort smashing against the crossbar coming down in the area the home defence clear it. Henderson taking the ball down the right wing for Peterborough is pushed down into the corner, escapes her marker to shift the ball inside, curling a cross into the six yard box Slipper takes the catch, not distracted by Katie Steward running across her.

  A little bit of pushing and shoving and a few words said out of turn sees the referee get his book out late on handing out a yellow card to Peterborough’s Frederick and Nicholls. Roper for Histon also receives a yellow. The free-kick is with Histon inside the Peterborough half on the right side. The ball played long into the box by Saunders is headed away by Iredale. Late counter by the visitors as they push players forwards, Cassie Steward onto the ball inside the box shoots an excellent save from Slipper at pointblank range. The ball spinning to the right Katie Steward to put back in Slipper saves again is fouled this time, no time left the referee blows the final whistle.
Full-time Histon Ladies 0-5 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies
  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies win the tie 0-5 and advance in the FA Women’s Cup going into the hat for Monday’s 4th Round Qualifying draw. A dominant 2nd half display getting on top of Histon and scoring 4 goals in a 11 minute spell to dominate the scoreline. Ultimately created far more chances getting the goals in the 2nd half. Histon battled hard to keep the scoreline down 0-1 behind at half-time had a couple of half chances to level thing’s up early in the 2nd half but were undone in the final half hour.
  My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. Best of luck to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the next round. 

  *UPDATE* The draw for 4th Round Qualifying has been made and Peterborough Northern Star Ladies will be away to Kettering Town Ladies – tie scheduled for Sunday 13th November.

Match Report – Ipswich Town Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

Midweek football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog from the FAWPL South East Division One, a local derby between Suffolk sides, Ipswich Town Ladies and Lowestoft Town Ladies. The reverse fixture in September saw Ipswich win the game 3-2 in the last minute of the game… lightening doesn’t strike twice does it? 

Match Report – Ipswich Town Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

 
 A midweek trip down the A14 to catch another game in FAWPL South East Division One this evening a Suffolk derby with Ipswich Town Ladies hosting Lowestoft Town Ladies under the lights.

  The two sides met just under a month ago in the reverse midweek fixture at Crown Meadow under the lights Ipswich held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time. Lowestoft coming back into it with 2 goals in 2 minutes from Aimee Durrant early 2nd half to go in front were pegged back to 2-2 before Natasha Thomas popped up with a 90th minute winner to see Ipswich win 3-2.

  Plenty of changes to the playing personal in both sides over the last 12 months. Lowestoft rebuilding with a young squad, retained their FAWPL South East Division One status this season. A rapidly improving league no easy games they have battled to get the results without always getting the rub of the green. One league win under their belts to date a 3-0 home win against Enfield Town Ladies, who they meet again in the FA Women’s Cup this coming Sunday.

 Ipswich Town Ladies have had such an influx of players over the close season they have been able to start up a Development side to assist the 1st team, competing in the Suffolk Women’s Division this season. Have recovered from a slow start in the FAWPL South East Division One to pick up the results and points to get them in amongst the leading pack, results this weekend going against them losing out on 3 points to drop out of the top half of the table. 

  Ipswich Town Ladies play their home fixtures at Felixstowe & Walton United FC’s, Goldstar Ground. Not too far off the A14 set in a residential area on the outskirts the carpark leads to the clubhouse and bar that over looks the cricket field with the football pitch off to the right. Surrounded by trees the pitch looked in great condition freshly cut, is a good size relatively flat a good playing surface a dry night but a little chilly with a strong breeze blowing across the pitch. Choose to stand between the dugouts making sure I wasn’t under one of the apple trees dotted around, just in case.

  Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI – Teodora Kodova, Beth Welton, Sophie Welton, Aimee Harrison (C), Lindsey Cooper, Sian Fagg, Amy Howlett, Natasha Thomas, Roxanne Small, Hollie Clement & Jade Henry.
  subs – Cassie Craddock, Jennifer Gray, Georgie Morton, Joyce Mlambo & Jacqueline Ball.

  Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI – Eilish Brogan, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Eleanor Froud, Abbie Everson, Broghan Scully, Millie Davies, Gemma Moore, Aimee Durrant, Molly Hall & Hannah Waters (C).
  subs – Megan Bamber, Selina Rowland & Paige Nash.

  It’s Lowestoft to get the 1st half underway, wearing white shirts and socks with blue shorts. Ipswich lined up opposite wearing an all blue kit. Roxanne Small closes the ball down in midfield winning possession looks to send the ball out to the left for Hollie Clement to chase, Lowestoft’s Lyndsey Adams gets across her to put the ball out for a throw. The ball is sent long down the line as Lowestoft press forwards, a bit frantic at the start the ball played long to test the Ipswich defence can’t get it clear Lowestoft with possession around the box.

  GOAL! Ipswich get up the other end with a fast paced counter attack and take the lead in the 3rd minute. The ball cleared from the back into Amy Howlett in the middle her though ball picks out Natasha Thomas breaking in behind the Lowestoft defence right side out pacing the defence carries the ball into the box, closing down on goal, hits the shot towards goal a powerful drive that flies in over goalkeeper, Eilish Brogan into the back of the net 1-0.

  Lowestoft look for an immediate response the ball played out to Gemma Moore on the right wing, getting down the line tries to turn inside towards box, full back Beth Wilson slides in to win the ball once, then twice the resulting clearance is cleared up towards Lowestoft’s Millie Davies in front of the centre circle, leaning back as she meets the ball looks to steer it towards the goal, on target it drops straight into the gloves of Ipswich goalkeeper, Teodora Kodova. 

  Striker Molly Hall recently signed by Lowestoft from Ipswich comes deep to receive the ball, turns and looks to thread it in behind the home defence for captain Hannah Waters leading the line to chase, Ipswich centre back Lindsey Cooper comes across to lung in and clear the ball out for a throw on the right. Thomas running forwards with the ball from midfield tries to pick out striker Jade Henry up top, Brogan comes to the edge of her area to gather the ball. Brogan comes rushing out again moments later to slide in at Henry’s feet as a deflection 30 yards out spins in behind the visitors defence.

  Howlett on the ball in the centre of midfield passes forwards through the middle for Henry making the run to get into the area, Lowestoft centre back Eleanor Froud closes her down and slides in to put the ball out to the right. Ipswich win a free kick in a dangerous position wide on the right outside the box, Clement over the set-piece a good delivery into the area, Hall gets her head on the ball clears it out of the box to the left Sian Fagg picks it up 25 yards out shoots the ball bouncing inside the six yard box before running wide of the far post.

  Waters moves across the pitch to the right side to receive the ball moves inside towards the area, holds the ball up waiting for support, lays it back to Moore arriving at the top of the area, looks to curl an cross into the six yard box, to close to the keeper, Kodova is able to claim the ball. The game is end to end Ipswich break the ball played onto Howlett drifting right looks to send the ball on down the line for Small, her cross is cut out by Aimee Everson the corner conceded. Played in from the right the ball goes long to the far post is knocked back out towards the top of the area, comes to Fagg her touch is a little heavy allows Lowestoft to converge on her clear the ball.

  Aimee Durrant receives the ball from Davies goes on a run down the left side, good control to cut back inside looks to fir a cross in along the top of the Ipswich area the ball flies across in between Hall and Davies neither able to get onto the end of it. Waters gets herself in behind the Ipswich defence as the ball is headed on from a goal kick, closing the area down, Kodova comes rushing out to the edge of her box, Waters looks to lift the ball past her with the outside if her right boot, the goalkeeper makes a great save with her foot clearing the all out to her left. 

  Lowestoft have the ball on the right Adams on for Moore her cross into the box is cut out by Ipswich captain Aimee Harrison cleared out of the area the referee spots a handball awards Lowestoft the free kick 30 yards from goal. Right of the goal it’s Moore over the ball, looks to curl a ball into the top corner, lands on the roof of the net. Ipswich press forwards players committed to the attack Lowestoft win the ball, Everson sends the ball up field, is helped on through with Waters again breaking in behind. Taking the ball into the area Kodova comes rushing out to meet her, sliding in as Waters looks to push it past her, the pair collide, the ball spins away, Durrant up with play gets hold of the ball as the Ipswich defence get back to cover the goal, playing the ball around the prone keeper, Waters up on her feet is given the ball shoots her shot is blocked on the line, play eventually stopped as Kodova needs treatment. 

  A quickly taken free-kick inside the Lowestoft half sees Henry get into the box to the right of goal, looks to send her shot across the keeper, Brogan gets down smartly to make the save push the ball wide of her goal. Ipswich’s turn to see a free-kick land on the roof of the opponents net, given one 35 yards out left side, Clement is the player who tries her luck from distance. A few refereeing decisions are baffling both sides. Ipswich get a free-kick inside the Lowestoft half in front of the centre circle the ball is played up into the box, Cooper up from the back gets up to head the ball down into the area, comes to Henry, gets the ball trapped under her feet is closed down before she can get a shot away cleared out to the right Thomas gets onto the ball whips a cross in along the front of goal, comes to Howlett at the far post a yard out puts her header up over the bar onto the roof of the net.

  Lowestoft are hit on the counter Ipswich getting players up into their half quickly the ball is rolled out to Small on the right side takes it on up the line, squares the ball into the area with Howlett getting up with play seeing the ball into her feet rolls her marker to take the ball into the area right of goal pulls the trigger, Broghan Scully has covered the ground, throws herself in the path of the shot deflecting it away for a corner. 

Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 1-0 Lowestoft Town Ladies

  A busy 1st 45 minutes sees Ipswich with the narrow advantage just as they did in the reverse fixture. Thomas with the goal early in the game, both sides having chances. Saves from both keepers. The ball moving from one attack to the next. Lowestoft getting in behind on a couple of occasions without capitalising. Lowestoft stay out on the field at half-time to work on a few things. Ipswich get the 2nd half underway. 
  Thomas is a player who likes to get the ball at her feet and run at players does so early 2nd half taking the ball out to the right side looks to jink her way past 4 Lowestoft players as she closes in on the area turning inside as she does so runs out of room the ball closed down gets deflected across the area, Brogan needing to get down to smother it with Clement coming in from the left side.
  Small receiving the ball from Howlett in the right dribbles the ball towards the top of the area her cross is cleared out of the area falls to Cooper over the half way line looks to open her body lift the ball back in towards the area is gathered by Brogan in the Lowestoft goal. Moore making ground on the right for Lowestoft is fouled the free-kick to the right outside the area, Moore tries again to place it top corner, same result onto the roof of the net.
  Charnelle Riggall brings the ball out from the back for Lowestoft plays it on up the line for Moore ahead of her. Waters comes across to receive the pass, looks to play a 1, 2 with Moore the latter’s cross cut out by Welton. Lowestoft are preparing a substitute delay it as they have a corner kick to defend. The ball in from the right is met by Henry near side her touch takes it up towards the D, Fagg is there the ball coming at her at an awkward height tries to get a shot away slices the shot away from goal, takes a touch off a Lowestoft body on the way through another corner given. Comes in deeper this time, Froud clears, the substitution can be made, Selina Rowland who scored 28 goals for Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies last season coming on for Davies in midfield.
  The referee continues to bemuse both benches not agreeing with some of the decisions being made. Ipswich have a free-kick some 45 yards out from goal the ball is sent up towards the D, Thomas inside it gets up well to head the ball down into the area, skips up off the grass into Brogan’s gloves before anyone can pounce on it.  
  Froud getting forwards to clear the ball ends up sending a great pass forwards for Waters to run in behind the Ipswich defence on the right turning towards the area look to drill a cross into the six yard box, is cut out by Cooper rolls back to Waters has another go looking to roll it onto the penalty spot, Cooper gets to it again but only succeeds in pushing it out off the area towards Rowland rushing in connects with the ball a rising shot the ball is blocked by the Ipswich defence appeals for handball, nothing given.
  A free-kick for Ipswich inside the Lowestoft half, Harrison plays it up into the area picking out her centre back partner, Cooper, gets up to head the ball knocking it down can’t direct it on target runs wide for the goal kick. Ipswich make a change with Georgie Morton coming on for Clement. Bringing the ball on in midfield for Lowestoft, Rowland passes the ball out to Moore on the right pushing out fires a cross with plenty of pace behind it into the box runs across the six yard box cleared out of the area, Durrant wins the race with Beth Welton to get to the ball 1st blasts a shot back in flies across the area wide at the far post.
    GOAL! The game is stretched Ipswich get the ball into Fagg in the middle is played out to Small on the right linking up with Howlett getting ahead of her on the wing. Taking the ball inside as she closes in on the byline Howlett unleashes a shot from an acute angle the ball flying over Brogan kisses the crossbar and drops down into the six yard box, Thomas having burst forwards from the middle is their unmarked to get her head down to nod the ball into the empty net 2-0. 
 
 Lowestoft go forwards from the restart the ball into Riggall played on for Moore up the right plays it inside to Hall outside the ox looks to curl a shot in, comes in too close to Kodova the keeper gathering the ball into her body. That’s Hall’s last action of the game as she is substituted, Lowestoft bringing on ex-Colchester Town Ladies player, Megan Bamber. She takes up position on the left with Durrant moving into the middle to support Waters. 
  More joy down the right wing brings Ipswich a corner the ball whipped in near post is helped on by Cooper into the middle, Everson clears behind for a 2nd corner. A poor on is cleared at the near post however Thomas gets back on the ball regains possession looks to curl a shot in skims the top of the crossbar as it goes over. Another substitution for Ipswich Jacqueline Ball comes on replacing Beth Welton. Scully gets the ball up through the middle into Waters peeling away to the right takes the ball into the area tries to place her shot around the keeper, Kodova down quickly makes a comfortable save.
   Pushing on down the right Small rolls the ball inside for Henry who turns and shoots from outside the box, the ball racing wide of the near post. Pressure from Ipswich as the game moves into the final 5 minutes, Henry helps the ball on into the box from the right side dropping down in the six yard box, Brogan is under pressure from Morton, the substitute lifting a boot hooks the ball away from the keeper the ball in air Morton ends up on the ground as the keeper claims it then boots the ball long out of her area, more than one Ipswich player is appealing for a penalty.
 
  GOAL! Lowestoft play on the ball cleared up to the right side into the final 3rd is with Moore on the touchline lifts the ball inside towards the top of the area, Durrant is there connects with the ball getting her foot under the ball to whip it up and over the keeper into the back of the net to set up a tense finish to the Suffolk derby2-1.
 
  Ipswich make a 3rd change Jennifer Gray replacing Small. Lowestoft press looking for another goal, the ball into Rowland holds it up back to goal before releasing Moore on the right her cross is deflected behind for a corner kick on the right. The ball is fizzed in with pace towards the top of the area, Froud can’t do much with it except play it back to Moore, she is closed down a throw awarded, Rowland offering support down the line wins her side another corner.
 
  GOAL! Little left of the 90 minutes the corner is fired in towards the penalty spot does get much height missing the Ipswich defender in front of her the ball comes at Everson quickly a deflection off her knee, sees the ball run out of the area, sets up Durrant perfectly connects with the ball outside the box her shot arrowing into the top corner, she wheels away in celebration but is quickly swamped by her teammates 2-2.

  GOAL! Saw this happen on Sunday and for the 2nd game in a row it happens again no sooner has one side gotten level they go and concede straight away. Ipswich do it to Lowestoft again get up the other end and score a last gaps winner. The ball is with Thomas after the restart taking the ball to the right gets her head down and drives forwards into the box hits the shot on the angle comes at Brogan quickly gets something on the ball but can only parry it across the six yard box, both Gray and Morton are their the latter bundling the ball past the keeper into the back of the net as she is swarmed on by her joyous teammates 3-2.

 
  Little time left for Lowestoft to respond as Ipswich see it out to celebrate what had looked a comfortable win. 
Full-time Ipswich Town Ladies 3-2 Lowestoft Town Ladies

  Hardly the way Ipswich had expected to pick up the 3 points to move back into the top half of the FAWPL South East Division One table. Looked comfortable for their 2-0 lead, Lowestoft were creating chances but the defence was dealing with it well. If you keep going however the chances will lead to something and with 5 minutes to go Durrant netting twice had got Lowestoft back into the game only for the heartbreak of conceding an injury time winner. A crushing blow for one side, a moment of huge joy for the other. 
  An entertaining and fast paced game, played in good spirits for a derby good to watch. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details tonight.