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Match Report – Actonians Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

  The match action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog at the start of October comes from FAWPL South East Division One. Actonians Ladies at home to Norwich City Ladies the 2 sides serving up a 9 goal thriller at North Greenford United FC, match report below.

Match Report – Actonians Ladies v Norwich City Ladies

 
 Trip down to North Greenford United FC this Sunday to watch some women’s football action from the FAWPL South East Division One, with Actonians Ladies playing Norwich City Ladies.

 Still early days into the season and it’s clear there are going to be few easy games in the league. Actonians Ladies are no longer ‘Old’ as they were in previous seasons listed as Actonians now. Were promoted to the FAWPL South East Division One last season and after a promising start got bogged down in an extended cup run and suffered from several postponements. Games in hand at the end of the season got the points needed to pull them away from the relegation places. Have started promisingly this season too, in 5th place with 6 matches played a record which reads W,L,D,W,L,D so on that form are due a win…

  Travelling to North Greenford United to play Actonians today are Norwich City Ladies, Norfolk’s premier women’s football side arrive having played half the games their opponents have the lowest in the FAWPL South East Division One, 3 so far. started with a home win against Lowestoft Town Ladies, 2 defeats since losing to the 2 sides setting the early pace at the top of the league, Cambridge United WFC and AFC Wimbledon Ladies. Have one of the youngest squads in the division.

  Thought I’d brave the London traffic head down to Actonians Ladies home venue today, North Greenford United, pass The Hive on the way heading for Wembley and Harrow the ground situated at the end of residential area backing onto green fields. !st weekend of October the weather is still holding onto the late summer sun going into autumn a few black clouds around but these would come to nothing. Several postponements last season the pitch like many others in the region suffering due to the heavy rainfall over the winter, looks a picture now the pitch reseeded looked great plenty of grass cover a good size too. Slopes a little from one corner to the other. A small seated stand behind one goal, the clubhouse and bar on the way into the ground, nice layout.

 Actonians Ladies starting XI – Naomi Swift, Sinead Friel (C), Lafe Uche, Jodie Regan, Leah Taylor, Hannah Olofsson, Jessica Byrne, Sinthujah Sooriyakumar, Katrina Marshalleck, Melissa Jung & Carla Williams. 
 subs – Catherine Murphy, Anais Escalona, Rhena Eames & Paige Hornsell.

 Norwich City Ladies starting XI – Ellie Bird, Erin Wilson, Brooke Osborne, Bryony Radley, Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow, Paige Shorten (C), Jodie Drake, Kyla Love, Ellen Swift, Natasha Snelling & Chelsea Garrett.
 subs – Rebecca Russell

  Traffic was heavy on the way to the ground I arrived half an hour later than I’d expected to and the Norwich City Ladies minibus heading in the same direction as me wasn’t there yet, arriving late the visitors didn’t have as much warm up time as they’d have liked nevertheless were ready to kick-off come 2 O’clock… ish. It’s Actonians to get the game underway kicking off 1st half are wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks, with Norwich lined up opposite wearing green shirts with yellow vertical piping, yellow shorts and green socks. The visitors win the ball early push into the Actonians half, captain Paige Shorten on the ball in midfield plays a speculative ball forwards to the right of the area looking to pick out Chelsea Garrett, Lafe Uche at left back for Actonians gets across her and wins the ball.

  Direct play from Actonians sees the ball headed on in midfield by Jessica Byrne up the pitch to Sinthujah Sooriyakumar coming in from the right wing to the top of the area gets her foot on the ball turns into the area, Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow in the Norwich defence gets close to her doing enough to put the attacker off the ball running on into goalkeeper Ellie Birds gloves. Brooke Osborne brings the ball forwards from the back for Norwich crossing the halfway line moving left sends it high up towards the area with Garrett breaking forwards to receive controls well as the ball drops in the six yard box the angle acute, gets the shot away early, Naomi Swift in goal for Actonians gets down smartly at her post to make the save.

Actonians Ladies, Melissa Jung 

 An end to end game in the early minutes both sides looking to release their attacking players quickly, Carla Williams moves out to the the left side receiving the ball looks to take it down the line before cutting back inside making a run across the face of the area, reverses the ball sending it into the box with Sooriyakumar looking to spin in behind the Norwich defence, Osborne tracks her run and gets a foot in to take the ball away from her out for the corner kick.

 GOAL! Norwich take the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, have possession inside the Actonians half ex-Nettleham Ladies player Kyla Love travelling with the ball up the right flashes a cross into the area, Actonians Leah Taylor gets up highest to head it on out for a throw on the left. Play is drawn over to that side as Norwich retain possession from the throw the ball rolled into the feet of Natasha Snelling out on the touchline is a good way out takes on the shot regardless sending the ball up towards goal, on target the arc of the shot sees it fly over Swift and drop under the crossbar into the back of the net 0-1.

  Snelling with possession on the left side again prods the ball forwards into Garrett making the run ahead of her left side of the area, is prevented from turning inside to shoot by Jodie Regan the defender tackling to concede the corner. Put into the area from the left the ball drops invitingly at the near post, Bryony Radley up from the back gets her head to the ball sending a looping ball in towards goal, straight and Swift the keeper pushes the ball wide of goal out to the far post Actonians clearing the danger hit Norwich on the break.  

GOAL! The home side move the ball from one end to the other clearing it to the left Katrina Marshalleck on the move has the ball on into the middle the ball comes through to Williams racing forwards right side in front of the area controls well before she unleashes a shot from 25 yards out firing the ball across the keeper and into the bottom corner of the net to equalise 1-1.

Actonians Ladies, Carla Williams

  Attacking down the right side Actonians push bodies forwards Jung receiving the ball outside the box helps it on to Marshalleck to the left, bringing the ball down turns and hits the shot, comes at Bird quickly the keeper makes the save the ball spilt, she recovers and grabs it before Marshalleck and get another touch. Actonians have Norwich on the back foot the ball inside their half, Sooriyakumar into Williams on the right, the striker attempts to lob the ball over Bird from outside the area the ball landing on the roof of the net. Williams and Jung look to link up outside the Norwich box exchanging passes Fewkes-Woodrow getting in between the to win the ball before either and get in behind to shoot on goal.

 

  Garrett is the outlet for Norwich in attack plenty of pace she is sent clear on the left side outpacing her marker into the area plants her shot wide into the side netting. Snelling and Shorten combine to win back the ball on the left side, play drawn across there is room for Norwich right back Erin Wilson to bomb forwards, Shorten picks her out with a superb crossfield pass taking the ball on down the wing cuts the cross back in towards the D with Love coming forwards can’t quite take the shot in her stride, Actonians win the ball and are immediately on the counter attack.

 GOAL! Byrne carries the ball forwards for the home side before playing it long up into the area with Sooriyakumar coming in from the right, Bird comes to close her down sliding in, Sooriyakumar bringing the ball down shifts it to her right avoiding the keeper pushes forwards wide of goal sends the shot in Norwich defenders racing back in an attempt to stop it is a handball but doesn’t keep the shot out is turned into the back of the net Actonians lead 2-1.

   Ellen Swift with space to run into on the right for Norwich sends a good cross into the box along to top of the six yard box Swift sets herself to claim the ball isn’t fazed as Garrett racing in throws herself at the ball, doesn’t connect the keeper claims. Hannah Olofsson plays the ball on for Byrne in the centre as Actonians build another attack pushes the ball forwards into Jung ahead of her right of the D one touch to put the ball on into the area, Wilson across just gets her toe to the ball to knock it on for Bird to gather before the shot can be taken. 

  Wilson with the ball out from the back picks out Snelling high on the left nods the ball back to Shorten in the centre looks to release Garrett as the striker gets in behind the Actonians defence, Swift is out of her area quickly to deal with the threat knocking the ball clear. Every attack is met with a counter, Actonians have the ball on the left Uche onto Marshalleck plays it across the face of the area Jung lets it run on with Sooriyakumar racing in behind, shots early the ball off target bouncing across the six yard box, Marshalleck has continued her run is inside the box, Bird scrambling across makes the save at her feet.

Melissa Jung headers the ball on for Actonians Ladies

  Actonians are seeing more possession of the ball in their opponents half, Jung with a drive through the middle releases Marshalleck on the right now, into the area flashes a shot across the six yard box, Sooriyakumar left retrieves and fires the ball back into the danger-zone, Wilson gets it away for Norwich. Olofsson bringing the ball on attempts to thread it on for Jung to burst into the box, under challenge from Fewkes-Woodrow the defender does just enough to kill the pace on the ball prevent Jung carrying it in behind.

 GOAL! Actonians extend their lead with possession on the right have a throw the ball is passed back to Olofsson 30 yards from goal given time and space lines up a shot strikes it well a low drives that bounces once across the area before nestling in the far corner 3-1.

Hannah Olofsson with the strike to make it
3-1 to Actonians Ladies


  Getting the ball up the other end of the pitch Norwich win a corner on the right, Love to take it, her delivery towards the near post is cleared back to her, moving to the top of the area curls a ball back into the centre of the box, Regan rises to clear for Actonians then as the rebound is knocked in towards goal from the top of the area, the defender shields the ball back to her keeper. Swift with a run on the right fires a low cross into the Actonians six yard box is just behind Garrett, Byrne tracking back is behind her clears the ball out of the area runs straight towards Jodie Drake the Norwich midfielder going to strike the ball blazes it wide.

  Actonians have the ball on the right the cross whipped in Jung coming near post stoops to head the ball gets it on target, Bird dives to her right dropping on the ball to make the save. Williams picking up the ball in a central position lines up a shot from 25 yards out a deflection of Fewkes-Woodrow puts it wide for the corner. 

 GOAL! Their is some frantic defending at the top of the area as Norwich struggle to get the ball away finding some space it’s Jung who plays the ball out to the left for Marshalleck left of goal dribbles the ball into the area closing the keeper down tries to lift her shot over Bird as she slides in to make the save does so a stinging shot blasted into her, the deflection falls favourably for the attacker Marshalleck getting in behind the stranded keeper to send the ball into the empty net beyond 4-1. 

Katrina Marshalleck extends Actonians Ladies lead late in the 1st half

  All Actonians in the closing stages of the 1st half, Norwich hanging on concede a corner left the ball is whipped into the six yard box drops onto Williams head, sends the ball wide across the goal.

Half-time Actonians Ladies 4-1 Norwich City Ladies

  A good 1st half display from Actonians Ladies despite suffering an early set back conceding a goal have come back strongly to lead 4-1 their attackers causing the Norwich defence a few problems the game has been open end to end. The better chances falling Actonians way as they get players forwards with pace, Marshalleck and Sooriyakumar providing good outlets on the wings with Jung and Byrne in the centre bringing the ball forwards with purpose. A comfortable lead for the home side at the break the visitors have to improve if they want to find a way back into the match.
  Norwich having stayed out on the field at half-time get the 2nd half underway. Shorten with the ball at her feet brings it on before sending it forwards towards the area, Uche with the interception. The ball is played up towards the Norwich box the clearance falls to Byrne in the centre 25 yards out opens up her body to lift a shot in towards goal goes over the bar. Wilson with a good tackle on Sooriyakumar on the right as the attacker looks to get in behind the defence. 

Norwich City Ladies
Jodie Drake
  Snelling is fouls wide left inside the Actonians half, a chance for Love to play the ball up into the area, amongst bodies Swift calls for the ball and makes the claim. Norwich have started the 2nd half brightly pressing the ball higher up the park getting more of it inside their opponents half, Love plays the ball over the top for Garrett running in behind, Swift is again out of the box quickly to get to the ball 1st kicks clear. Shorten has a go from distance 30 yards out turns the ball away from the target.  
 GOAL! The early pressure from Norwich pays off Drake gets the ball into Snelling over on the right holds it up well outside the box rolling it inside to Shorten getting forwards, Garrett makes a run in between the pair bursting into the area the ball played into her feet shoots and sends the ball under the keeper and into the back of the net 4-2

  Actonians make a double change Uche and Sooriyakumar coming off. Anais Escalona and Rhena Eames coming on. Eames goes to centre back with Regan moving into the left back position. Drake wins the ball in the middle then sends Garrett away on the left side, her pace carrying her into the box driving towards goal, Taylor gets on her the shot wanting to force her wide Garrett manages to shot with the outside of her right boot from 8 yards out sends the ball over the bar. 

  A completely different game of football from the 1st half, Norwich are pushing Actonians back, sharper to close down the ball and enjoying more of it inside the final 3rd. Snelling advances down the right, stops then squares the ball inside coming at Shorten quickly she attempts the volley throwing herself at the ball connects drags the attempt wide at the far post. The tempo of the match has been high all game, Marshalleck with the ball on the right advances into the Norwich half passes inside to Byrne pushing on through the centre sends the ball into the box her shot blocked spinning out to the right picked up by Williams fires a cross/shot back in the ball blocked spins behind for the corner. Comes into the middle of the six yard box from the right, Bird just about gets her fingertips to the ball managing to help it away from goal out to the left, a handball is spotted by the referee Norwich get the free-kick.

Jessica Byrne wins the header

  Marshalleck shows a good turn of pace on the right as Byrne plays her in down the right wing takes the ball into the box, shoots her drive towards goal saved by Birds feet as she goes to ground, the rebound coming back to Marshalleck wide of goal goes to send the ball back into the middle Radley blocks to put it behind for the corner. Floated in near post on the right, Bird gets up to grab the ball.

 GOAL! Friel fouls Love as the Norwich midfielder advances with the ball the free-kick given away 10 yards inside the Actonians half to the left side of the box. Shorten on the free-kick hits the ball long into the box, a bit of back spin on it as it drops over everyone lined up along the face of the area, Swift looks to have it covered coming straight at her, bouncing the ball skips up off the surface, wrong footing the keeper flies up over her looping down into the goal beyond 4-3.

  Love is put clear on the left as Osborne brings the ball forwards taking it down the line Friel gets back on her to put the block in stopping her cross taking it behind for the corner kick. Love to play in is knocked down near post dropping to Rapley inside the area sends the pass it to Love her 2nd attempt to put the ball in is charged down by Williams before being cleared. Norwich push players forwards Osborne coming on to support Garrett as she holds up a Snelling pass outside the area on the left, getting the ball sends it long into the area looking to pick out Shorten at the far post, tries the overhead kick doesn’t come off.
 

Kyla Love bringing the ball on for Norwich City Ladies

 Love and Snelling bring the ball on for the visitors the ball played into the run made by Garrett to get into the box on the right shoots a low drive aiming near post, Swift down quickly makes a great save pushing the ball wide for the corner kick. A good delivery from the corner drops into the middle of the six yard box a shot is sent in, Swift makes the save on her goal-line the loose ball is then flung over the bar.

 GOAL! At this point Norwich are all over Actonians they are giving the ball away, clearing their area the ball drops to Love left side some 40 yards out, time on the ball lines up a shot comes in at a fast pace could well be heading for the top corner, either way an Actonians defender in it’s path tries to get her head to the ball a glancing touch takes it away from one corner deflecting it across goal, Swift can’t adjust her feet in time flails at the ball but can’t keep it out Norwich come back from 4-1 down to make it 4-4.

 GOAL! Just as Norwich celebrate getting it back to 4-4 they are hit on the counter straight from the restart, Actonians pile forwards from catch the Norwich back line a little off guard, Williams receiving the ball central 25 yards out with the centre backs split, Bird has read the threat comes racing out off her line to the edge of her area, Williams bringing the ball into her body, turns quickly and lifts the ball over the advancing keeper, the ball dropping into the six yard box beyond and into the back of the net 5-4.

Carla Williams makes it 5-4 for Actonians Ladies

 Norwich make a substitution 16 year old Rebecca Russell coming on to make her debut for the club replacing Snelling. A free-kick to Norwich in the middle the ball lifted up into the area, Olofsson defends heading the ball out to the right is gathered by Garrett who takes it on down the line before squaring the cross in towards the near post, Osborne having now moved up top to join the attack is there near post sends her header up over the bar. Having gotten there noses back in front Actonians have livened up the game stretched in the latter stages. 

Brooke Osborne attacking for Norwich City Ladies

 Wilson is clipped inside the Actonians half giving Shorten another opportunity to lift the ball up into the area, it runs deeper this time and Swift gets everything behind it to claim the ball. Up the other end Bird’s clearance drops to Byrne in the middle of the Norwich half with the keeper off her line she attempts the lob getting it over her the ball runs wide of goal. Drake with the ball plays it on for Love attacking down the left size fires the ball inside looking for Osborne at the top of the area centrally under challenge from Eames one or the other connects with the ball the result seeing it run into the six yard box for Swift to gather. The referee brings an end to the match as Actonians defend a late Norwich corner.

Full-time Actonians Ladies 5-4 Norwich City Ladies

  What a game, what a result, two completely different halves of football. Actonians dominating it 1st half looked good for their 4-1 lead. Norwich late to arrive not fully warmed up, came back 2nd half applying the pressure to Actonians that the home side did to them 1st half, fighting back to make it 4-4 only to see the home side get back in from straight away and hold onto it this time to take the 3 points with a 5-4 that sees them up to 4th place in the table. Tough for Norwich City Ladies having gotten it back all square only to concede so soon after, showed character to come back into it. Relief for Actonians Ladies having lost their lead to comeback and find another goal so soon after the leveller to retake and hold onto the lead.
  Another entertaining game to watch it was hard to keep up with everything that was happening it’s a good job I can translate my scribbles not sure anyone else could. Thanks to both sides for the entertainment a 9 goal thriller and for their help with the team details today. 

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

The 2nd game from the Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog on Sunday comes from the Ridgeons Stadium in Newmarket where Newmarket Town Ladies now play their home games on a brand new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. Were taking on higher league opponents with Norfolk Division One Champions Wymondham Town Ladies looking to progress in the competition enjoy a run like they had last season.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

 
 The Women’s FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying action continues on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this weekend with a trip down the A11 to the Ridgeons Stadium to watch Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Is a match up between two ambitious women’s football clubs looking to grow and progress up the football pyramid, both with large playing squads starting up reserve sides this season.

  This is Newmarket Town Ladies 1st competitive match at their new home the Ridgeons Stadium on Cricket Field Road in Newmarket, home of the men’s side and a stark contrast to the Dullingham Polo Fields where they played previously. The ground has undergone alot of development since the last time I was there, have in place a state of the art cork based 3G pitch. 

  Newmarket Town ladies compete in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership and are looking to push on up the table this season, with their League Cup winning U18s side stepping up to the senior squad this season, plus a few new signings the 1st team is complemented by a new reserve side competing in the Championship South. Started the league season last weekend, Nadine Basson scoring the goal in a 1-0 win away to Netherton United Ladies. A good test for a young squad today playing higher league opposition. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies had a great run in the Women’s FA Cup last season winning through to 4th Round Qualifying beating FAWPL Division One side Cambridge United WFC along the way. Eventually losing to another FAWPL Division One side, Bedford Ladies. Followed their FA Cup adventure on the Blog last season. Wymondham Town Ladies went on to win the Norfolk Women’s Division One title and as Champions of Norfolk have been promoted to the new look ERWFL Division One where they have started well laying 2nd in the table after 4 games played going into the weekend. A league above Newmarket, Wymondham have nearly a month more competitive football under their belts.

  May have been a little premature calling summer over last evening in the cold and drizzle at Bishops Stortford for today was a lovely warm sunny afternoon. Boasting a new state of the art 3G pitch the rest of the ground is coming along nicely to, room for spectators around the whole pitch, has a good sized seated stand beside the clubhouse, with a bar and hot refreshments available. 

The new cork based state of the art 3G pitch at the Ridgeons Stadium

  Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Olivia Orme, Beth Woodfield (C), Kristin Hummel, Abbi Griffin, Jess Linger, Antonia Smith, Joeli Kirby, Abbie Marshall & Nadine Basson.
  subs – Sian Tatum, Molly Agnew, Natalia Evangelou, Dominika Szary & Jodie Woodfield.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Kelly Ayers, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs – Summer Moore, Hannah Johnson, Lily Ray & Ella Swift.

  It’s Newmarket to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway wearing yellow shirts with blue shoulders and trim, blue shorts with yellow trim and yellow socks with blue and white hoops. Wymondham lined up opposite wearing red shirts, black shorts and red and black hooped socks. The visitors win possession of the ball early played into Kayleigh Holloway down the left wing crosses the ball in curling it towards the near post with Laura Wiseman making the run to get on the end of it gets a touch but not enough to take it past Newmarket goalkeeper, Eloise Hope who claims well covering the angle.

Kristen Hummel tackles, Gemma Sanders for the ball

  On the right inside the Newmarket half Gemma Sanders closes Joeli Kirby down to win the ball and run in behind shooting from 20 yards out sends the ball wide of goal. Newmarket make progress up the right Wymondham’s Brooke Cheal-Ferris closing Antonia Smith down to give the opposition a throw in the ball is played into Olivia Orme who holds the ball up outside the area before laying back into the path of Kristen Hummel central running onto the ball shoots, blasted into the area is blocked by Kelly Ayers for Wymondham.

 Sanders coming forwards again down the wing is tripped a free kick on the right inside the Newmarket half players go forwards as Amber Cantwell stands over the ball, plays it long towards the far post, looks like it might evade everyone then Bethany Fretwell gets a stooping head on the ball, at Hope quickly a yard away does well to get a glove on the ball push it around the post to concede the corner kick. 

  GOAL! The corner delivery from Holloway on the left isn’t dealt with, dropping into the centre of the six yard box lands at Sanders feet, fall backwards she stabs the ball in over the line, scrambling to her feet to run away in celebration 0-1 an early lead for the visitors 7 minutes played.

Gemma Sanders pictured scores the opening goal for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Newmarket carry the ball into the Wymondham half, Kirby left in field to Abbi Griffin sends it out right to Smith the crossfield pass up to Nadine Basson in attack doesn’t get a good connection with the ball as she shoots from the top of the area, the ball runs harmlessly through to Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O’Callaghan. 

  Wiseman gets hold of the ball inside the Newmarket half dribbles it on looking wriggle her way through the Newmarket defence, the tackle comes in the ball out for a throw left, played into the advancing Cheal-Ferris she whips an early ball into the box, Newmarket captain, Beth Woodfield kicks it clear out of the area is picked up by Cantwell 25 yards out takes on the shot the ball flying straight into Hope the goalkeeper gloves the ball safely to the floor. Wiseman moves to the right supporting Sanders in attack the pair working the ball on Sanders receiving it from Wiseman cuts the ball back along the top of the Newmarket box Alice Collins shoots as the ball arrives at her feet inside the D drives the ball wide.

Laura Wiseman makes it 0-2 to
Wymondham Town Ladies

  GOAL! Wymondham are causing Newmarket all sorts of problems early on moving the ball well the home side struggling to get any meaningful possession inside their opponents half, the ball is won back by Cantwell ion halfway is a quality pass over the top for Wiseman to chase down, winning the race against the Newmarket defence inside the area to hit a left foot strike across the six yard box and into the bottom corner of the net 0-2. The lead doubled inside the opening 15 minutes.

  Moments later Cantwell comes on with the ball again not closed down pulls the trigger in a central position 20 yards out, Hope makes the save punching the ball over her crossbar. From the resulting corner on the left, Fretwell gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box from Holloway’s delivery pushes the ball wide of the far post. Wymondham keep coming on with the ball Newmarket pushed deep in their own half can’t mount a counter attack.

 GOAL! The clock passes the 20 minute mark and the visitors extend their lead winning a corner on the right, Cheal-Ferris to take the initial ball is dealt with well by Beth Woodfield headed out of the box the ball is retrieved by Fretwell played back out to Cheal-Ferris as players try to get out of the area the ball is lifted in towards the far post, might be dropping in as Hope tries to get across to deal, Sanders rushing in nods the ball over the line to make sure, doesn’t get up quite so quickly to celebrate this time as she got as much of the post as she did the ball 0-3. 

  Cantwell brings the ball on over halfway tries to thread the pass through for Wiseman in the middle again, Hummel makes a vital interception at the back to win the ball for Newmarket outside her area. Hope produces another fantastic save to deny Cheal-Ferris as the defender bringing the ball on shoots from the left angling the ball in near post heading for the top corner Hope tips it over her crossbar. More good defending from Newmarket, Orme this time up against Sanders as the ball is sent into the area from Holloway on the left gets in front of Sanders to shield the ball and clear, possession regained by Wymondham’s captain Rachel Cossey she shoots from distance but straight down Hope’s throat.

Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey wins the battle for the header with Newmarket’s, Abbie Marshall

  A rare attack 1st half for Newmarket, Griffin plays the ball up to Basson central holding off her marker releases Smith in the wing attempts the through ball into the box with Abbie Marshall making to run, Ayers inside the box gets there 1st for Wymondham to clear. Ayers forwards to take a throw on the right puts the ball into Wiseman moving to the byline, turning hooks the ball high into the air, a dangerous bounce at the far post Collins ready to turn it in, Hummel gets her boot under it 1st to launch away from danger.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Antonia Smith

  Wymondham having time at the back on the ball work it forwards well players moving into space to receive, Ayers plays the pass inside to Cossey sends the ball on for Wiseman on the shoulder of the Newmarket defence a race for the ball into the area again this time the left foot strike is screwed wide across the face of goal. Wymondham attack down the left side the ball is lifted high in towards the top of the box inside the D, Sanders tries to get to the dropping ball under challenge makes contact more of a deflection than a shot nevertheless the ball loops back up towards goal, Hope on her goal line keeps her eye on it, drops onto the top of the crossbar bounces twice before rolling back onto the roof of the net.

  The ball is won back by Wymondham in midfield played up into the box with Wiseman on the move left, wants the ball to drop over her shoulder then strike it, Hope comes to close the attacker down, does enough to put Wiseman of as she scoops the ball up over the goal beyond. From a corner kick played in by Cheal-Ferris on the right, Fretwell with another stooping header gets under the ball pushes it up over the bar inside the six yard box. Sanders catches Hope accidentally late in the 1st half inside the box as she tries to get in around Woodfield shielding the ball, Hope calls comes sliding in just as Sanders throws a leg around the defender catches the goalkeeper on the ground right of goal, a painful collision but the Newmarket goalkeeper is okay.
   

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-3 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A dominant 1st half display from Wymondham sees them in control of the tie leading 3-0 keeping better possession of the ball and using the width well, have Newmarket penned back in their own half with Basson isolated on halfway unable to get involved in the game at all to influence things up top. A lot to do at half-time if they are to find any response in the 2nd half.
  A double switch for Newmarket at the start of the 2nd half the wide players Kirby and Smith off with Molly Agnew and Natalia Evangelou coming on. Positional changes too, Evangelou going to right back see’s Yasmin Woodfield move inside to centre back, Hummel into midfield with Griffin wide right, Agnew wide left. Evangelou is called into action straight away as Wymondham kick off the 2nd half play the ball to Holloway on the left wing driving forwards, the substitute tackling to put the ball out for a throw in. 
Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin
  Straight away Agnew makes an impact on the left for Newmarket driving down the wing cutting inside to evade a tackle curls a cross into the box along the six yard line no one there to turn it goalwards. Wymondham press up the left Cantwell out to Holloway up the wing cuts the ball back to Collins at the top if the area the ball is deflected through to the far post area, Sanders chasing in sees the ball saved by Hope at close range.
 GOAL! 3 minutes into the 2nd half and Newmarket pull a goal back. Jess Linger gets the ball into Hummel takes on the shot 25 yards out puts it straight into O’Callaghan’s gloves the keeper kicks the ball out of her area up field, Hummel’s wins the challenge for the ball, sends a great ball through the middle for Basson where she’s most effective in the opponents box, the defence turned Basson gets to the ball 1st sliding onto it to propel it on past the diving keeper into the back of the net 1-3.
 
  Sanders running up the right wing with the ball sends the cross along the top of the area looking for Holloway coming inside from the left, Hope coming out to intercept the ball takes it away from the winger, the ball races in quickly to Wiseman inside the D can’t get it under her control before both Woodfield’s close her down.
  GOAL! Newmarket’s joy at pulling a goal back at the start of the 2nd half lasts barely 5 minutes as Wymondham open it back up to 3 goals. Holloway is on the ball allowed to travel along way with it turns inside before firing in a shot from outside the area the ball sailing through the air across the goal to nestle over the line off the far side netting 1-4.
 
Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway
  GOAL! 3 minutes later Wymondham go further ahead, are awarded a free-kick on the right halfway inside the Newmarket half. Cantwell on the ball plays a great delivery up towards the near post, Fretwell has had a few chances to bag a goal, gets one to her name as she connects with the ball sliding it under Hope as she dives in vain to stop it crossing the line. 1-5.
 
Bethany Fretwell with the goal to make it 5 for Wymondham Town Ladies
 Two changes for Wymondham both on the right side bringing of both Ayers and Sanders, Lily Ray and Ella Swift. Wiseman strong as she receives the ball inside the D spins away to her left before reversing the shot across the face of goal just wide at the far post. Ray moving with the ball up the right sends a shot flashing over the bar from the angle. 
 Up the other end Newmarket are pushing on more, Agnew left and Griffin right running at the Wymondham defence with Hummel up the pitch to, passes the ball into the right channel, Basson gets after the ball tries to take it on around Fretwell  the centre back gets back well to time her tackle and regain possession. Wymondham make their 3rd change Cantwell comes off, with Summer Moore coming on into the centre of midfield. 
Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbie Marshall
  Agnew ball at her feet drives forwards an inside run from the left fires the ball into Marshall inside the D, Newcombe squeezes the ball taking it away from the attacker, Basson to the left latches onto the loose ball outside the area her 1st time strike swerves away from the goal wide. Hummel plays the ball long into the box for Basson to give chase, pressures the defence enough to win Newmarket their 1st corner of the game. Swung into the six yard box from the right the ball drops into the six yard box, Hummel lunging for it doesn’t make any meaningful contact Wymondham see it cleared up field. Newmarket bring on Sian Tatum for Hummel with around 15 minutes left to play.
  Basson has picked up a knock from the corner is struggling a bit as the ball is won back by her defence played long up to her, 20 yards out Newcombe comes in to close her down, manages to get the ball in towards goal lacks any pace O’Callaghan scoops it up into her gloves. Marshall makes a good run with the ball in the middle for Newmarket has Tatum moving into the box to her right tries to play her in Fretwell closes her down puts the ball out for a throw on the right. 
Nadine Basson with Wymondham’s Ella Swift
 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes of the tie, Newmarket with the throw on the right push players on is played up to Tatum top corner of the area not a clean take but helps the ball on towards the top of the area inside the D, Marshall latches onto the ball shoots the ball blocked from 2 yards comes straight back to her takes it on into the area turns to her right Tatum is there instead she back heel the ball straight into Basson behind needing no invitation Basson shoots sends the ball into the bottom corner past the diving O’Callaghan 2-5.
 
 GOAL! No sooner were Newmarket celebrating a well worked goal then they are hit on the counter attack up the other end Wymondham from the restart getting the ball up field is fired in from the wing taking a deflection runs on to Collins outside the area opens up her body and turns the ball in towards goal into the top corner 2-6.
 
  Into the last 5 minutes both sides a still looking for a goal, Wiseman still has the legs to carry the ball up the right wing before unleashing a shot sending the ball behind for a goal kick near post. Cossey and Moore in the middle combine to win the ball back a spot of head tennis before pushing it on for Wiseman central, strength on the ball to push her way through the middle before shooting sending the ball over the bar. 
 GOAL! The 90 minutes are virtually up the game stretched late on Newmarket having lost possession in their opponents half, Holloway plays the pass up to Wiseman takes the ball down into the box left of goal pulls the trigger sending the shot across the six yard box and in to make it 2-7.
 
   One last attack for Newmarket in injury time, Griffin with the energy to bring the ball on down the right wing  swings the ball into the area with Tatum inside running near post, Newcombe gets across her path and brings the ball out of the area. The final whistle blows and Wymondham advance to the next round of the Women’s FA Cup.
Full-time Newmarket Town Ladies 2-7 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A strong performance from the visitors played well dominating possession early and having the lead to show for it. Newmarket rallied early 2nd half the changes having an impact, took their 2 goals well. Just didn’t keep it at 3-1 long enough in the 2nd half Wymondham hammering home their advantage with 2 more quick goals. Scoring 7 goals have a feeling not too many will want to be drawn against them in the next round. 
  Good to see both sides in action, thanks to both clubs for their help today, had great entertainment in my 1st 2 Women’s FA Cup games this season looking forwards to the next round. The draw if it follows form should be on Monday.

*Updated* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has been made and it will be a repeat of last seasons tie with Wymondham Town Ladies, travelling to play Cambridge United WFC this time around, both sides have strengthened since that game. The tie is scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.

Match Report – Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

A Women’s FA Cup double on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this weekend 2 ties from 2nd Round Qualifying with the 1st of 80 ties being played on Saturday night. A special occasion for Bishops Stortford Ladies playing at the men’s club, ProKit (UK) Stadium. Their opponents for the tie Bungay Town Ladies. Match report below.

Match Report – Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

 
  Football from the Women’s FA Cup on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, some 80 ties drawn for 2nd Round Qualifying of this season’s competition with a total of 254 clubs being accepted in total to compete. This weekends action get’s started on Saturday an evening kick-off for Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies, the venue for the tie, Bishops Stortford Community FC’s, ProKit (UK) Stadium.

  Bishops Stortford Ladies are new entrants to the Women’s FA Cup this season which sees an increased prize fund for all rounds this year, still a pale drop in the ocean but progress nevertheless £450 for the winning side and of course the ultimate prize is a final at Wembley Stadium. Compete in Beds & Herts Women’s Division One having been promoted rapidly through the 3 divisions since the current set-up was formed 5 years ago. Finished 4th in the league last season. Have a strong youth set-up with teams from U12 through to U18 competing several of their starting line-up tonight having been with the club all the way through the youth sides.

  An exciting opportunity for the ladies side to play at the men’s ProKit (UK) Stadium, Bishops Stortford Community FC compete in the Conference South. The season has barely started in the Beds & Herts Women’s League and Bishops Stortford Ladies didn’t play in the opening round of fixtures tonight’s Women’s FA Cup tie being their 1st competitive game of the season. 

  Bungay Town Ladies are the visitors today this their 3rd year in the Women’s FA Cup after a 2 season absence are looking for advance in the competition for the 1st time. Competing in Norfolk Women’s Division One an established side in the league played their 1st league game of the season last weekend. With strong support form the men’s club that run a number of youth teams for both boys and girls. 

  From a personal point of view running Women’s Football East, I’m always intrigued to see how the various leagues across the region match up and the Women’s FA Cup provides a great opportunity to see sides comes together in competition. The FA Cup whether it’s the men’s or women’s game captures the imagination players and fans alike.

  Bishops Stortford Community FC’s ProKit (UK) Stadium is just off the M11 behind the Birchanger Motorway Services a regular stop off for myself on the way home from London after a women’s football game to write up a match report. The stadium is at the end of an industrial estate on the way into Bishops Stortford itself. A large carpark the stadium boasts great facilities a large bar and clubhouse, refreshment booths for hot food and drink a good sized main stand overlooking the dugouts. a smaller seated stand far side. A quality playing surface nice and flat, plenty of grass cover both sides looking forwards to playing on it. Well summer has come to an end had to happen sometime had a long run the heavy rain on Friday bringing in an autumn feel to the evening cool with a misty drizzle blowing across the pitch as the two sides walked out of the tunnel. 

  Bishops Stortford Ladies starting XI – Sophie Parslow, Sophie Cook, Louise Crocker, Natasha Atkinson, Chloe Haken (C), Megan Kenny, Jess Croney, Yasmin Smith, Samantha Tant, Brogan McHale & Kathryn Stanley.
  subs – Jess Mace, Andreia Messias, Lauren Maynard, Natasha Coppin & Ashley Johnston

  Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Ruth Smart, Kelly Collins (C), Lois Nethersell-Webb, Charlotte Power, Annie Piper, Ella Hindley, Inna Marx, Rebecca Carver, Lauren Purling, Emily Leach & Lacey Andrews.
  subs – Emily Coe, Sian Carter, Megan Vincent, Nicola Hazel & Jordan Duke.

  Two sides who are used to playing roll on roll of substitutes in their respective county leagues the rules change in the Women’s FA Cup, 5 substitutes can be named on the bench of which only 3 can be used. Bishops Stortford to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway taking kick-off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with Bungay lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks. 

*Team captains Kelly Collins & Chloe Haken with tonight’s officials

    An early ball from midfielder Megan Kenny for Bishops Stortford out to Yasmin Smith attacking down the left wing looks to knock the ball on down the line, Bungay captain, Kelly Collins at right back gets across her to make the tackle put the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball back in their own half Bungay play the ball long up to striker Lacey Andrews on half way spins away to the right same result as Lauren Crocker puts the tackle in conceding the throw, taken quickly Bungay’s Lauren Purling takes the ball down the the wing before whipping a high cross into the Bishops Stortford six yard box, goalkeeper Sophie Parslow palms the ball down cleanly the sets up a quick counter kicking the ball long out of her area helped in in the middle striker Brogan McHale latches onto the ball driving forwards shoots early from outside the box, Bungay goalkeeper, Ruth Smart gathers the shot.

  A spell of possession on the right inside the Bungay half for Bishops Stortford brings them the 1st corner of the match. The ball is lifted high in towards the near post, helped on falls to captain Sophie Haken waiting far post looks to hit the ball back across the goal face, her shot blocked the rebound runs to Crocker top of the area she shoots same result, Bungay block. Samantha Tant receives the ball on the right wing drives towards the top of the area before spinning wide again to avoid a tackle down the line wins a corner. A strong punch from Smart this time coming through bodies at the near post to clear for Bungay.

   Bishops Stortford doing well early on, have a free kick on half way, Smith over the ball sends it up towards the Bungay box, Inna Marx heads the ball away for Bungay, Smith with another opportunity to swing the ball into the area comes in high, McHale tries to bring it under control, before she can is closed down by the visitors defence. Breaking up the left side Rebecca Carver sends the ball on down the wig for Andrews strong running to get into the area with the ball slips on the slick surface as she goes to shoot.

  The game is starting to even out a little more, Bungay finding room for their midfielders, Marx and Ella Hindley to get on the ball spread the play with Andrews moving all the way across the back line, Marx sending her away on the left, Natasha Atkinson gets back to pressure her run, Purling coming across to the near post to support the corner is conceded. Bungay have two opportunities to play the ball into the area from the corner the 1st cleared for a 2nd corner, this one drops amongst the bodies congregating near post the ball is turned wide of the post, a goal kick is awarded.

 GOAL! The visitors take the lead on the 20th minute. Purling running with the ball down the right wing plays the ball into Andrews inside the box right of goal brings the ball down, quickly closed down to way to turn and release a shot instead plays the ball across the area with Carver free just outside the area, hits a low strike with pace towards goal zipping along the wet surface, Parslow sees it late her dive in vain as the ball rolls in at the near post 0-1.

*Rebecca Carver with the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies



  Corner for Bishops Stortford soon after the restart the ball is played up towards the face of the box too high for Crocker, Atkinson beyond her can’t control, but manages to help it on for Haken stretching for the ball sends a high ball wide across the face of goal. End to end no sooner has Purling reaching the byline on the right for Bungay put her cross behind goal then then the home side break, Kathryn Stanley getting hold of the ball and passing it out to the left with Smith looking to get in behind, Bungay’s Charlotte Power getting across to play the ball out for the throw. 

  Power in the middle at centre back is on hand twice in quick succession as Stanley coming a little deeper to receive the ball tries to put McHale in through the middle, Power intercepting on both occasions. It’s Power’s centre back partner, Annie Piper who gets across to deal with Stanley then as she picks up the ball from Jess Croney and turning drives into the box on the left. Bungay pushing towards the Bishops Stortford box lose the ball Atkinson clearing it along way up field, Smith after it gets away down the left into the box hits the ball hard across the six yard box, her cross/shot going wide McHale racing in far post unable to turn it home. McHale with a shot from 25 yards out in a central position the ball played through the middle from a goal kick, turns and unleashes the shot the ball screws away from goal. 

*Bungay Town Ladies, Charlotte Power

  Marx over a free kick wide on the right for Bungay plays it up towards the box headed clear, Hindley wins it back passes to Purling on the right sends her cross high into the area far post Andrews hooks it back into the middle, Emily leach back to goal looks to bring the ball down, Sophie Cook closes her down, tackling to send the ball clear of the box. Croney plays the ball up to Stanley putting her clear on the left, charging towards the box checks her run coming inside to shoot, looks to curl the ball into the top corner, not enough height on the ball is taken cleanly by Smart.

  Both sides using the full width of the pitch enjoying to slick surface the ball moving from one end to the other, McHale has been back helping her defence, breaks forwards now a burst of pace seeing her get ahead of the Bungay defence lets fly from outside the box the ball runs wide of goal. Bungay get up the other end see a goal chalked off for offside, Lois Nethersell-Webb playing it on up the left for Carver the ball whipped in across the six yard box is turned in won’t count. 

  Marx is over another Bungay free kick inside the Bishops Stortford half plays the ball in from the right, cleared from the area, Hindley rolls it back to Marx tries again plays the ball towards the far post area, Leach is their headers the ball but can’t direct it on target. Bishops Stortford attack down the right as the 1st half draws to a close , McHale and Tant link up the latter tries to play Stanley through into the box, Power cuts out the pass her clearance going to Cook, sends a diagonal ball into the area with Smith looking to get in behind everyone, Smart is able to claim it before she can reach it.

Half-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

  A narrow advantage to Bungay at the break, has been a fast paced 1st half both sides working the ball up the wings using the whole pitch with neither overly testing the opponents goal. A lot of energy has been put in the 1st 45 minutes. One goal in it still all to play for 2nd half. No chances at the start of the 2nd half Bungay to kick-off.
 Early opportunity for Andrews to have a strike on goal, the ball played into her in a central position from the right, given time to turn hits the strike from 30 yards out runs wide across the area. Parslow reacts sharply inside her box with Bungay pressing on the right Purling lifts the ball up into the area, Andrews after it the keeper drops to smother the ball right side of her. Bungay win a corner on the right, goes long to Andrews drives the ball in towards goal is cleared back out to Marx puts the ball back in to the near post comes to Leach catches her a little flat footed prods the ball wide.

*Lacey Andrews attacking for Bungay Town Ladies

   Bungay applying alot of pressure at the start of the 2nd half are camped in the Bishops Stortford half on the right have a throw the ball with Marx passes to Andrews outside the area to the right of goal, unleashes a shot blasts the ball wide. Purling takes the ball down the right, cutting it back inside, Andrews that side inside the box misses her kick the ball runs on through to Carver left of the D outside the box this time her shot fizzed in low is the wrong side of the post. 

  Carver receiving the ball from Nethersell-Webb carries it down the left before squaring across the top of the area looking to pick out Andrews, the Bishops Stortford defence cut it out the clearance rolls straight into Leach 25 yards out central shifts the ball then shoots the ball going a foot over the crossbar. A chance to relief the pressure for Bishops Stortford as they have a free kick on half-way, Croney to put the ball up towards the area, Piper heads clear, the ball is sent on up to Andrews through the middle goes on her own lets fly from 25 yards out the shot racing wide past the right post.
  Andrews is proving a real handful for the Bishops Stortford defence to deal with moving all over the place to receive the ball, tries to take the ball on down the left, Atkinson gets across tackles well to regain the ball then is fouled by Andrews as she goes to clear it. Hesitation at the back presents a chance for McHale as she robs Marx of the ball attempting a shot pass to Nethersell-Webb getting in behind the defense into the box right flashes her shot wide across the six yard box. 
  Picking up the ball in the middle, Stanley with a clever twist, looks to have gotten away from Power at the back charging towards the box through the middle, Smart comes to close her down, Power recovers well to lunge in and push the ball way from the striker with her right boot playing it behind for corner. From the right 2 corners are put behind by Bungay at the near post the 3rd one going long runs to McHale top of the area, the ball is taken off her toe just as she goes to hit the shot.
  Tant gives Stanley the ball on the left inside the Bungay half, the Bishops Stortford attacker taking on the Bungay defence drives inside in towards the D runs it on to McHale as she is closed down, under challenge McHale squeezes a shot away the ball is blocked the rebound back with McHale, lifts the ball up across the area towards Tant at the far post six yards out headers the ball over the bar. Bishops Stortford make their 1st change Ashley Johnston coming on for Cook.
  GOAL! Bungay hit Bishops Stortford on the counter attack the ball played long towards Andrews moving into the box from the right, Parslow comes rushing out towards the attacker, Andrews goes wide then sends her shot in low across the advancing keeper and into the back of the net 0-2.
 
Lacey Andrews
 
 
  Andrews with another opportunity to attack a forwards pass as Marx and Carver link up the ball up the left Andrews closed down as she reaches the top of the area gets a shot away with the outside of her boot gets the shot on target, Parslow palms it down and gathers in the centre of her goal. Marx tackles to win the ball in the middle stabs it forwards into Leach holds it up well central to goal, turns and squeezes a shot away, Parslow throws herself to her left, the ball runs narrowly wide. 
  Crocker gets forwards from the back for Bishops Stortford plays the ball long into the box left side with Tant making the run hits her on the back, dropping down into the area, Tant goes after it inside, her shot charged down as Nethersell-Webb comes across quickly to block. Natasha Coppin comes on for Bishops Stortford replacing Kenny. The substitute given the ball wide left in attack whips a cross in towards the near post, Stanley can’t bring it down under control before Piper tackles to win possession back for Bungay. Not long after piper indicates she needs to be subbed, Bungay send on Sian Carter. 
Kathryn Stanley

 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes and Bishops Stortford set up a tense finish to this Women’s FA Cup tie as they pull a goal back. Croney with the ball in the middle passes to Stanley ahead of her has the legs to beat Nethersell-Webb racing towards the edge of the area shots sending the ball up and over the keeper into the back of the net 1-2.


  The goal has lifted Bishops Stortford they press on the left, force Bungay back the visitors pull everyone back to defend their advantage with less than 5 minutes left.

 GOAL! The visitors relieve the pressure get the ball out into the centre then send it long into the left for Andrews to chase, Haken goes with her tries to marshal the ball out for the goal kick, Andrews gets round her getting her toe on the ball back up the line fires the ball in towards the top of the area, Leach is there picks up the ball strong as she drives into the area, 3 defenders ahead of her blasts a shot in deflects to the left rolling favourably for Andrews coming inside, opens up her body to curl the ball in towards goal looping over the keeper and in 1-3.

 Not much time left in the game Bishops Stortford press forwards win a corner on the right, played long to Crocker outside the box can’t keep her long range shot down. Andrews after a hat-trick spins and hits a shot central 20 yards out, Crocker blocks it at the back the ball spinning away for the corner. Played in high at the near post Leach rises her glancing header sends the ball on, Johnston gets her head on it behind plays the ball to her goalkeeper. No more time left the referee blows the final whistle and Bungay Town Ladies celebrate the win.
Full-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 1-3 Bungay Town Ladies

  An entertaining Women’s FA Cup tie watched by a decent sized crowd of around 150. Saw a fast paced game both sides enjoying the playing surface. An even 1st half Bungay edging it came out the stronger 2nd half stretching Bishops Stortford, Andrews up top moving all across the back line hard to mark a constant outlet for Bungay. The home side pulling it back to 2-1 late on setting up a tense finish before Bungay restored their 2 goal cushion, the magic of the cup. 
  My thanks to everyone at Bishops Stortford Football Club for their help today hopefully the ladies will get to play more games there in the future. Thanks to Graham Purling to for helping me with Bungay’s squad details. Best of luck Bungay Town Ladies in the next round.

*additional photo’s courtesy of Ashleigh from Bungay Town Ladies.

*Update* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has now been made and Bungay Town Ladies will be at home to Acle United Ladies. The game scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.

Match Report – Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Ipswich Wanderers Ladies

For the 2nd successive Friday it was a journey down to Basildon’s John Hornby School to watch a game under the lights in the ERWFL Division One. Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies playing again the home side this time. The visitors Ipswich Wanderers Ladies, both with identical records after 3 games played a win, a draw and a loss. Both could climb up to 3rd in the table with a win. The report from the SWF Blog below.

Match Report – Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies v Ipswich Wanderers Ladies

 
 For the 2nd successive Friday a trip south down to the John Hornby School in Basildon to watch another ERWFL Division One match under the lights, Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies the host side this time around playing Ipswich Wanderers Ladies.

  Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies were impressive last Friday against Hutton Ladies beating them 4-1 to win their 1st 3 points of the season building on a draw in their opening league match. Came unstuck just 2 day later away to Offley & Stopsley Ladies losing 5-1 currently in 7th spot in the table.

  Just a place above them are tonight’s opponents, Ipswich Wanderers Ladies with the exact same record after 3 matches played having started with a win then drawing with Offley & Stopsley losing narrowly 3-2 to Silver End United Ladies last Sunday, in 6th spot in the table with 4 points like Little Thurrock Dynamos a win for either would lift them up to 3rd spot in the table.

   Has been a thoroughly wet day across the whole eastern region heavy rain and so was the case as I was leaving Norfolk, it was forecast to clear away by the evening and the further south I travelled the brighter the skies became with the rain having gone before the game started. Played on the large 3G pitch at John Hornby School in Basildon.
  
    Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Atlanta Fuwa, Courtney Fraser, Elle King, Taylor Parrish (C), Danielle Styles, Kerri Thomas, Taylor Adcock, Libby Clarke, Elouise Ives, Georgia Fraser & Sophie Dowman.
  subs – Rhianne Holmes, Sophie Darkins, Patrizia Leo, Robyn Mudd & Katy Judd. 

   Ipswich Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Danielle Lynch, Jessica Taylor-Allum, Kirby King, Leanne Derbyshire, Claire Turnbull, Kimberly Rex, Sophie Crane, Kristie Turner, Kathryn Parnell, Michelle Taylor-Allum & Tarnya McKew (C)
   subs –

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  No substitutes for Ipswich Wanderers, travelling with just the bare 11. Are looking to sign a new goalkeeper but as yet haven’t filled the position. Manager, Danielle Lynch usually a centre back dons the keepers gloves tonight returning to football 10 weeks after having a baby. Little Thurrock have a full substitutes bench a large squad at their disposal, captain, Abbie Simmonds unavailable tonight, Taylor Parrish with the captains armband.
Ipswich to kick-off the 1st half wearing an all blue kit with white shirt sleeves, Little Thurrock wearing black and green shirts, black shorts and socks. Ipswich send the ball long down the right wing win an early corner kick, Tarnya McKew, Ipswich’s captain to play the ball into the area whipped in across the six yard box evades everyone near post bouncing in the middle of goal comes through to Michelle Taylor-Allum far post three yards out gets her foot over the ball blasts it goalwards is blocked by Elle King covering the post then cleared.
  Up the other end Little Thurrock get a free-kick inside the D as Lynch handles the ball outside her area. King and Georgia Fraser over the ball, King pushes it forwards into the box for Fraser, lifts a shot in looking for the top corner, won’t come down quick, goes over for a goal kick. Know from watching the match last Friday the ball will zip off the surface run through to the keeper, does just that as Ipswich break looking to provide the ball for McKew coming through the middle to run on to runs into the box for Little Thurrock goalkeeper, Atlanta Fuwa to gather before she can reach it.
  Taylor Adcock brings the ball up the field for Little Thurrock, passes it wide right for Elouise Ives who has space to run into fires a cross into the box looking to pick out Sophie Dowman, Jessica Taylor-Allum gets in front of her to clear for a throw on the right. Ives finds space to run into again on the right getting up the pitch sees her cross/shot end up behind at the near post from outside the box. 
  GOAL! The visitors take the lead with 10 minutes played the build up on the right of the pitch winning a throw the ball is worked in field before being swept on the diagonal into the box for McKew near side to bring down, her 1st touch wrong foots her marker flicks the ball inside and turning right strikes the falling ball into the back of the net 0-1.
 
  Kristie Turner bringing the ball into the Little Thurrock half has Kathryn Parnell to her left, receiving the ball rolls it inside to Taylor-Allum then burst forwards looking for the return ball down the left into the box, goes after it, King gets back to clear the ball for Little Thurrock. Counter attack the ball played into Adcock central switches play out to the right for Ives moving forwards a couple of yards squares the ball back central outside the box for Adcock who lifts it up into the area, Dowman right side of goal tries to control with her head bring the ball down falls to Fraser to her left, stretching to reach it pushes the ball wide of goal.
  Little Thurrock press the ball well in the middle Kerri Thomas with Adcock the ball played on with Dowman latching onto it racing for the box inside the D under challenge still manages to get a shot away squeezing the ball towards goal, Lynch gets across to cover the post can see in run wide. Libby Clarke plays the ball in towards the top of the box from the left side as Little Thurrock enjoy a spell of possession in Ipswich’s final 3rd, the ball drops for Dowman inside the box headers it down back out with Thomas charging forwards meets it on the volley sends the shot over the crossbar.
   Clarke with a good switch of pace on the left brings the ball up towards the top of the area crosses inside for Georgia Fraser her 1st time strike is blocked by Leanne Derbyshire. Little Thurrock go on to win their 1st corner of the match on the left an inswinging delivery a glancing header off an Ipswich defender at the near post takes it across the goal face and away from danger. Courtney Fraser is allowed to bring the ball forwards from left back into the Ipswich half for Little Thurrock, plays the ball on down the left channel, Georgia Fraser is interested breaking away from the visitors defence the ball just skipping through into Lynch’s gloves before she can latch on to it. 
   McKew is strong and looking to get in behind the Little Thurrock defence as the ball is played forwards through the middle, Taylor Parrish doesn’t get drawn too close giving herself the space needed to get to the ball 1st whenever Ipswich look to turn the defence with the ball through the middle. Little Thurrock make a double change Ives and Styles the players off, Patrizia Leo and Rhianne Holmes making her debut coming on. Adcock passes the ball left to Courtney Fraser as she comes forwards again into the Ipswich half decides to have a crack at goal a long way out, gets plenty of power behind the ball it flashes wide across the goal. 
 Georgia Fraser brings the ball inside from the left lets fly with the shot 25 yards out, one bounce inside the six yard box drifts wide of the post. Thomas wins a 50/50 ball before passing it forwards into Fraser, she switches play out to the right with Leo inside. Bringing the ball inside travels into the box evading a challenge before hitting the ball with her left for in towards goal, Lynch makes a reactive save with her legs the ball deflected away from goal. Change for Little Thurrock, Styles back on replacing Thomas in midfield. A swift counter attack from Ipswich, Kimberly Rex on for Michelle Taylor-Allum running with the ball takes on the early strike, flies in towards goal dips late not enough to bring it down under the crossbar. 
  Parnell plays the ball up through the middle as Ipswich break forwards with purpose looking to pitch out McKew, Holmes back pedalling gets her foot on the ball 1st is unlucky as her clearance catches McKew on the side of the head the deflection taking it into the area, left of goal McKew gets control of it with Parnell bursting up the pitch is brought down by Leo right on the edge of the area. Left side McKew to take manages to lift it over the Little Thurrock wall as it jumps the ball dropping near post goes behind a corner is signalled the ball comes in near post is headed clear.
   Late pressure in the 1st half from Ipswich, Parnell on the ball inside the Little Thurrock half evades two tackles pushing in towards the box losses possession with the 3rd tackle the clearance coming to Turner, 30 yards out smashes in a shot a low drive runs wide across the box. Parnell bringing the ball on again has Sophie Crane in close support rolls the ball into her looks to lift the ball into McKew positioned at the top of the area, can’t bring it down under control as Parrish closes her down puts it out for a throw last action of the 1st half.
Half-time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 0-1 Ipswich Wanderers Ladies

  A single goal the advantage for Ipswich after an entertaining 1st half the pace high tempo. Getting into the lead early Ipswich have tries to slow the pace down, Little Thurrock have pressed the ball not allowed it to slow breaking forwards finding space on the wings have created plenty of chances without overly tested Lynch in goal. A narrow lead an eventful 1st half, was nothing compared to what was to follow 2nd half.
  Little Thurrock making changes at half-time Thomas back on for Adcock. Robyn Mudd and Katy Judd are on to replacing Clarke and Dowman. It’s the home side to kick-off the 2nd half Ipswich get control of the ball and after a spell of possession on the right win a corner. McKew lifts the ball in central, Crane gets up to head the ball towards goal is defended dropping back into the area, bodies everywhere a follow up shot comes flying in flashes over the bar. McKew capitalises on some uncertainty at the back from Little Thurrock turns inside from the left plays the ball into the area. Courtney Fraser hooks it clear out of the area with Taylor-Allum moving towards the ball. 
  GOAL! Attacking down the left, Little Thurrock win a corner the ball is swung in long across the six yard box dropping far post plenty of green and black shirts gathered there the ball is turned onto the post from close range then as it bounces back out the ball is fired back in across goal and over the line 1-1. Needed help to pick out the goalscorer in the melee, Parrish, Little Thurrock’s captain with the goal.
  A free-kick to Little Thurrock inside the Ipswich half left of the centre circle, Georgia Fraser on the ball plays a lovely flighted ball into the box, runners coming in Judd can’t get anything on it as she leaps in front of Lynch the ball pops out of the keepers gloves, Mudd tries to react lunging for the ball pushes it wide off target.
 
  GOAL! Ipswich get themselves back in front minutes after conceding the equaliser the ball played from back to front rapidly is up to McKew breaking in behind the Little Thurrock defence beating the offside trap left of the goal outside the box sees the dropping ball over her shoulder before hitting it on the half volley arrowing the ball over the static Fuwa into the back of the net 1-2.
 
 The game becomes very stretched, both sides going long, Turnbull making ground up the left crossing inside looking for McKew top of the area can’t take the ball down cleanly as Holmes gets in close to tackle get the ball away.  
 
  GOAL! With Little Thurrock looking to push on create something at one end Ipswich counter attack and score up the other, Crane into Taylor-Allum in the middle plays the ball to Parnell out left side 25 yards out lines up the shot, puts plenty of pace into the shot drilled in rising Fuwa throwing herself at the ball as it smashes against the crossbar bouncing down the keeper is grounded as McKew closing in on the follow-up buries the ball into the back of the net to score her hat-trick 1-3.
 
 Little Thurrock come on, Styles is given time and space on the ball central 30 yards out goes for goal firing in a great strike towards goal, sees Lynch produce a superb save throwing up a glove to tip the ball over the crossbar. The resulting corner on the left side is swung in across the six yard box headed back across goal, Lynch palms the ball to the floor the grabbing hold of it launches it out of her area.
 
  GOAL! Styles scores for Little Thurrock to narrow the advantage back to a single goal. Starts and finishes the move as she brings the ball on into the Ipswich half plays the ball out to Leo on the left as she sprints forwards, attacks down the wing, Styles breaks to looking to get into the box. Leo turns inside firing the ball into the area, Lynch throws herself forwards to push the ball away, doesn’t get enough on it runs inside past her Styles arriving to drill the ball over the line 2-3.
The end to end nature of the 2nd half continues, Ipswich have Turnbull on the ball plays it on for Taylor-Allum moving into space on the left side fires the shot in on the angle, Fuwa gets down smartly to make the save push the ball wide across her goal. The corner is conceded on the right. McKew plays in in high near post, Turnbull gets up to head the ball on across goal, Little Thurrock clear far stick and counter break in numbers with Judd on the ball through the middle, tracking back Turner tackles her before she can reach the area.
 
  GOAL! The goals keep coming, Ipswich getting the ball up the other end quickly to regain their 2 goal lead. Having found it difficult to get in behind the Little Thurrock defence 1st half Ipswich are taking shots from distance. The build up is on the right the ball played up to McKew then rolled across the face of the area with Parnell free 25 yards out to the left hits the shot as the ball rolls across her sending the ball angling back in across goal and into the far corner 2-4.
 
  Taylor-Allum stabs the ball wide of goal as Parrish for once is a fraction late getting in on McKew as she pushes the ball on into the box. A corner for the visitors on the left the ball played in central a bullet header the ball knocked down towards goal inside the six yard box, for a moment the spectators think it’s in, however the ball is firmly in the hands of Fuwa making a fantastic save. Attacking for Little Thurrock both leo right and Styles coming to the left put their crosses into the side netting. Adcock comes back on replacing Thomas for Little Thurrock. 
 
  GOAL! No let up in the goals 2nd half as Little Thurrock battle back to close the scores once more. Pushing on into the Ipswich half Styles plays the ball out to the left, Mudd has come inside but gives chase to the ball retrieving it in the corner, Courtney Fraser races forwards to give her a passing option up the line gets the ball turns and moving inside fires the cross in long to the far post dropping Judd rushing in gets her boot on the ball sending it into the goal 3-4.
 
  Dowman comes back on for Little Thurrock late on replacing Georgia Fraser up top. The ball is played up field for the substitute to chase down outside the box right of the D, King steps out of the back line for Ipswich, beats Dowman to the ball runs back to Styles free inside the Ipswich half launches a rocket towards goal, Lynch has no chance of getting to it turns to her right as the ball cannons off the post.
 
  GOAL! Just as Little Thurrock almost bring it all square in the closing minutes of the match Ipswich get up the other end and score. From a throw on the right players drawn across the out ball is sent crossfield to the left with Turner the player in space 30 yards out takes on the shot drilling the ball in low it races across the six yard box striking the inside of the far post and bouncing over the line 3-5. 
 
  Turner tries another one from distance soon after the ball dipping late but straight into Fuwa’s gloves. Time almost up the ball is launched up the pitch Styles and Judd burst clear giving chase to it, Lynch comes racing out to the edge of her area to kick the ball high into the night sky, the final action of the game.

Full-time Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies 3-5 Ipswich Wanderers Ladies

  Ipswich Wanderers win the game 5-3 to take the 3 points move up into 3rd in the ERWFL Division One table. An action packed 2nd half full of goals, an end to end game some quality shooting on display whether the ball went over the line or not. Little Thurrock dealing with McKew’s threat through the middle 2nd half, backed off a little too much 2nd half allowing their opponents the opportunity to strike from distance Ipswich took their chances well. Little Thurrock battled all the way getting level early 2nd half almost got it back to 4-4 late on eventually losing 5-3. An exciting game to watch.
  Both sides are in action on Sunday, Little Thurrock making their bow in the FA Women’s Cup a local derby at home at the Gateway Academy playing Brentwood Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying. Ipswich Wanderers Ladies are at home too in the 1st Round of the Suffolk Women’s County Cup taking on last years beaten finalists, Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies, best of luck to both and thanks too to both for their help with the team details tonight.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage Ladies

  Midweek football action from Mildenhall Town FC on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog with 3rd placed Cambridge United looking to build on recent good form could go top tonight should they beat newly promoted Stevenage Ladies who picked up their 1st point at this higher level at the weekend.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Stevenage Ladies

 
  A short journey down to Mildenhall Town FC this evening to catch some midweek action from the FAWPL South East Division One, with Cambridge United WFC hosting newly promoted Stevenage Ladies.

  Cambridge United WFC are up to 3rd in the FAWPL South East Division One table after a 3-1 win away to Norwich City Ladies on Sunday. A point off the leaders Luton Town Ladies had the chance to go top of the table tonight with a win albeit early days in the season. Have made several new signings over the close season, with Rosie Kmita coming in from Tottenham Hotspur Ladies recently making her competitive debut for the Cambridge against Norwich at the weekend. Nicole Perschky and Hollie Jardine know tonight’s opponents well having joined from Stevenage Ladies over the summer. Both were starting tonight.

  Stevenage Ladies won the ERWFL Premier Division title last season to earn promotion to the FAWPL South East Division One. Gary Bailey took over as 1st team manager during the close season, joining him as assistant manager, Reece Buck formerly managing Hoddesdon Town Ladies. A few Hoddesdon players have followed him from the club, Daniela Martucci, Stephanie Mann, Leah Dunnage, Becky Scola & Kristina O’Connell. Becky Day who is a regular for the Hertfordshire FA’s representative side also joins from Hitchin Town Ladies. Lost their opening 2 league matches at this level, most recently earning their 1st point in the FAWPL drawing 3-3 at home to Actonians Ladies last Sunday, Kristina O’Connell scoring all 3 goals.

  Has been another hot and sunny day, still warm as the sun starts to go down and the floodlights come on. The Mildenhall Town FC pitch looking in great condition even though it has seen alot of play already this season 20 games with 5 sides using it. A slope from one goal mouth to the other. 

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Hollie Jardine, Rosie Kmita, Emma Jenkins, Laura Bright (C), Paige Logie, Dawn Mallett, Becky Taylor, Ashleigh Deacon, Laura Mills & Nicole Perschky
  subs – Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Faith Hewitt, Evie Gallop, Tahnee Perfect & Carolyn Sarafian. 

  Stevenage Ladies starting XI – Becky Scott, Sophie Bailey, Leah Dunnage, Tanya Blacksley, Amy Josland, Amy Notschild, Donna McGuigan (C), Lisa Milliken, Cara Breckenridge, Kristina O’Connell & Becky Scola.
  subs – Hayley Wood-Thompson, Bolu Fisher, Becky Day & Jenny Hepton.

  It’s Stevenage to get the match underway kicking off 1st half attacking down the slope wearing an all blue kit with black sleeves on the shirts with Cambridge wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts. The home side make ground attacking down the right the ball is swung up into the middle the clearance top of the box falls to Cara Breckenridge lays the ball forwards for Becky Scola to take on into the Cambridge box is pushed wide, wins th visitors an early corner. 

  Breckenridge picks the ball up from a throw inside the Cambridge half plays a long crossfield ball to the right wing with Lisa Milliken charging forwards into space, Rosie Kmita playing at left back for Cambridge gets her head to the ball taking the ball over Milliken out for a throw on the right. 

  GOAL! Cambridge get hold of the ball from the throw the ball played up the left for Ashleigh Deacon, taking it on, Kmita bursts forwards receiving the ball on the overlap fires the ball into Nicole Perschky inside the Stevenage area, a good 1st touch to kill the pace on the ball wrong foot her marker, then turns hitting her shot low and hard across goalkeeper Becky Scott into the back of the net 1-0. 4 minutes played.

Nicole Perschky with Stevenage’s Tanya Blacksley
(photo credit Gary Reed)

  A bright start from Cambridge another attack up the left the ball played inside into Perschky, looks to play the ball on for Laura Mills who has charged up the right wing coming inside into the box, the attack is stopped by the offside flag. 
,    GOAL! Hollie Jardine starting at right back for Cambridge tonight fouls Stevenage captain, Donna McGuigan inside the Cambridge half left of the centre circle. A chance for Stevenage to push players forwards from the back with Breckenridge on the ball. Plays a great delivery into the area swung in centrally has to be dealt with, both Cambridge centre backs look to come to the ball jump to head it away, Emma Jenkins gets her head to the ball ends up playing the ball into her own net 1-1. The lead lasting just 2 minutes.

  Is a frantic pace to the match, Stevenage playing 3 at the back with Milliken and Breckenridge providing the width left and right dropping back went necessary. Some committed challenges on the field to a few complaints to the referee. Jardine wins the ball inside the Stevenage half on the right plays it into Logie in midfield, put back to Jenkins her pass lifted up to Perschky in a central position looks to flick it over the top into the box Tanya Blacksley heads it away to the right for Stevenage. Mills gets hold of it looks to play the cross back into the box, Cambridge want a penalty as Taylor is bundled over, nothing given.

  Becky Scott is out to the edge of her area to claim the ball as Perschky runs in behind the Stevenage defence looking to get on the end of Dawn Mallett’s through ball. Jardine attempts to play the crossfield pass for Deacon to run onto on the left, Sophie Bailey steps out of the back line to put in a good tackle to win the ball. Deacon with the ball at her feet as Cambridge attack down the left again 25 yards out comes back inside moving central attempts to reverse the ball play it into the area for the attackers to run onto, too straight the ball runs out of play. 

   Stevenage are working hard to compete for the ball, in front of the defence, Amy Notschild is cutting out alot of Cambridge passes, playing the ball out to Breckenridge on the left, plays the ball into Scola going on the overlap beyond her gets the ball back sends a cross into the box, too close to Verity Crook, Cambridge’s goalkeeper catches the ball. 

  Jardine comes away with the ball making the challenge inside the Stevenage half up the right wing for Mills to go after, squares the cross in towards the near post, Leah Dunnage cuts the cross out, the ball cleared into the middle is played back up into the box Perschky looks to hold it up, Dunnage closes her down tackling taking the ball away from her, a corner is conceded on the left. Stevenage defend 2 near post deliveries before the 3rd one goes long out of play.

  Winning the ball back for Stevenage, Notschild plays it into Scola coming to the halfway line, turns well evading a tackle passing into McGuigan ahead of her, shoots from distance the back dropping into the back of the net, however she committed a foul before shooting play brought back for the free kick. Amy Josland plays the ball on for Milliken wide right taking it on down the wing, passing the ball inside to McGuigan, top of the area she slips as she looks to play the ball on into the area with Milliken continuing her run. 

  Kmita gets in around the back as she races up the wing to support Deacon turning inside loos to lift the ball into the area for Perschky, Notschild back defending heads the ball out of danger. Jardine comes on with the ball gets fouled by Scola 30 yards from goal the free-kick given. The Stevenage management aren’t happy with the referee getting a little carried away play is stopped as he has a word. Bright on the set-piece plays it in to the top of the area Dunnage going up with Taylor does well getting enough on the ball to knock it down to the floor before it is launched clear.

   A committed contest both sides working hard, some strong challenges will be a few bruises to show for it in the morning. Pinging around in midfield the ball runs favourably for Taylor 30 yards out, takes on the shot dips late but not enough as it whistles over the crossbar. Taylor involved again as she closes Josland down to the right inside the Stevenage half, plays the ball in field Mallett picking it up driving on before taking on the shot pace on the ball it bounces as it comes straight at Scott, escapes her for a moment but grabs hold of it at the 2nd attempt before Deacon can capitalise.

  Breckenridge takes the ball inside from the left attacking for Stevenage plays the ball into McGuigan’s feet pushing forwards lays the ball out to Scola peeling away into space on the left into the box shoots her low drive into the centre of the six yard box, Crook going to ground makes a comfortable save. 

  Cambridge attack late in the 1st half up the right Jardine on for Taylor her low cross driven into the box is sliced across the area by Dunnage as she goes to clear, no one wearing an amber shirt can react. A corner on the left for Cambridge taken quickly by Mills down the line for Mallett cuts inside, shoots aiming for the far corner the ball goes wide.
  

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-1 Stevenage Ladies

  A square at the break both goals coming early on, the game played at a high tempo, Stevenage putting alot in to close the ball and minimise Cambridge possession. The three at the back dealing with most thing’s if Cambridge have been able to get it past Notschild in the 1st place. The better chances have fallen Cambridge’s way without overly testing Scott in the Stevenage goal. 
  Cambridge attacking down the slope in the 2nd half as they kick-off no changes for either side at the break. Lose possession early on the ball as Kristina O’Connell challenges for it, goes after the ball passing it wide left to Scola, shoots from the angle the ball in low wide of goal. Cambridge get Taylor on the ball inside the Stevenage half passes to Perschky central her back to goal, lays it wide to Kmita coming on from the back who plays the diagonal ball towards Mallett moving towards the top right corner of the area, Mallett takes on the shot drilling her effort wide across the face of goal.
  Josland finding room in the middle to bring the ball on sends the pass on to McGuigan ahead of her, 25 yards out opts to shot, loses her footing taking the pace of the ball the shot bounces through to Crook. Mills with the ball at her feet runs up the right wing squares a cross into the box is deflected behind for the corner. The ball is played in towards the top of the area, Bright headers the ball down with Logie free to her left connects with the ball sending a looping ball in towards goal his headed away from the goal line dropping into the crowd beyond, another shot comes in this one is taken cleanly by Scott.
  No let up in the pace, a couple of clattering challenges one leaving Logie in a heap on the floor needing treatment. Mallett is over the free-kick central a long way out drops the ball straight into Scott’s gloves. Milliken drives up the right with the ball attempts the through ball for Scola, is cut out by Bright. Cambridge break the ball fizzed into Perschky’s feet good hold up play with Mills making the run on the right looks to get the ball across to her, Breckenridge tracks back well to tackle and thwart the attack.
  A free kick for Cambridge out wide on the right, Mallett over the ball flights a good delivery into the six yard box Logie gets up to meet it headers the ball wide of goal. O’Connell charges down Bright as she looks to play the ball out of the back the ball rebounding in behind the striker goes after it, Crook is sharply out of her area to kick the ball up field. Good build up lay from Stevenage the ball played up to O’Connell heads it down for McGuigan, Notschild comes on receives the ball looks to thread it through the middle for Scola, Jenkins steps forwards to intercept.
  A change for both sides, Becky Day coming on for Notschild for Stevenage. Kayleigh-Anne Burt comes on for Cambridge replacing Deacon sees a shift of personnel with Burt joining Bright at centre back, Jardine switching from right to left back with Kmita pushed up the pitch, Jenkins into right back. 
  GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and Cambridge retake the lead. Build up on the right as Jenkins wins possession of the ball plays it on for Taylor. She passes the ball into Perschky just inside the box into her feet, shifts it well to evade her marker creating room to shot sends the up into the top corner 2-1.

  Stevenage look for a immediate response from the restart the ball played out to Breckenridge on the left crosses early playing the ball into the box, the onrushing O’Connell gets her head to the ball places it wide. Cambridge get the ball up the other end win a corner kick on the right the ball fired in near post is cleared drops to Taylor at the top of the area her shot into the crowd ahead of her is blocked spins out to the left the ball is launched back in towards the far post Cambridge have plenty of players their the ball turned goalwards is initially cleared off the line before being turned in again and bundled over the line, but in all the excitement the flag is up on the far side for offside goal disallowed.
 
  GOAL! Cambridge do extend their lead on the 70th minute, attacking down the left Jardine on for Kmita the ball is fired up into the box, Perschky the target, good foot work to see the ball into her body then roll it on for Taylor unmarked to her left inside the box Taylor goes for goal hitting her shot back across the keeper and into the bottom corner 3-1.

Cambridge United WFC’s
Becky Taylor
(photo credit Gary Reed)

  Cambridge make their 2nd change bringing Evie Gallop on for Logie. Stevenage make 2 changes, Bolu Fisher coming on for Scola in attack. Milliken is substituted too, Hayley Wood-Thompson comes on. McGuigan takes a heavy knock as she is fouled in a central position 25 yards from goal. O’Connell on the ball hits it hard, how hard only Mallett will know as charging out she blocks, her bottom feeling the full force of the shot.

  Cambridge do everything bar score as they get a corner on the right Mills playing the ball towards the near post Bright headers on is cleared off the line drops into the area another shot comes in  blocked a 3rd attempt coming back off the post before Stevenage scramble it to safety. Cambridge make their final change bringing on Carolyn Sarafian for Jardine. Into the last 10 minutes and both sides are still putting alot of energy into their football. Another Cambridge corner headed on at the near post falls to Mills waiting far side looks to lift a shot into the near post Scott gets across her goal face smartly to take the ball.

 
  GOAL! Stevenage pull a goal back as they push up the field, O’Connell has come deep to receive the ball, Wood-Thompson is already on the move on the right, O’Connell picks her out, as she runs in behind takes the ball on turning inside towards the box before shooting sending a delightful ball up and over Crook to nestle in the back of the net 3-2 to set up a lively finish with 3 minutes of normal time left on the clock. 

  Free-kick for Cambridge wide right, Mallett over sees her initial delivery cleared back out to her by Blacksley. Taking the ball on down the line lifts a cross in high towards the far post Taylor coming in throws herself up to try and get the ball, can’t get to it ends up in the net herself. Kmita with a burst of pace on the left plays the ball long crossfield into Mills on the right takes the ball on down to the byline before cutting it back to Taylor outside the area goes for goal, Scott is right behind the shot makes the save.

  Stevenage press hard for an equaliser as the game move into injury time, from a throw on the right, Bailey up the pitch plays it on for O’Connell right plays the ball into the area, Bright does enough to keep McGuigan from getting anything on the ball as it bounces up allowing Crook to collect inside the six yard box. 

Full-time Cambridge United WFC 3-2 Stevenage Ladies

  Cambridge hold on at the end to win 3-2  the win seeing them go top of the FAWPL South East Division One. An entertaining contest, played at a fast tempo from start to finish in front of a good sized crowd. Plenty of action another great advert for the women’s game, Stevenage working hard to close the ball down and limit Cambridge’s attacking play. Going 3-1 down before pulling a goal back later on to set up a tense finish. No easy games in this division going to be an intriguing league from top to bottom all season and we’ve barely gotten started.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details tonight. 

Match Report – Copleston Ladies v Walsham Le Willows Ladies

A new season of County league football kicked off across the East and the rest of the country this Sunday. The Supporting Women’s Football Blog started with a trip into Suffolk to watch last season’s league Champions, Copleston Ladies begin the defence of their title at home to newly formed Walsham Le Willows Ladies it’s squad of players from the recently folded Bury Town Ladies. 

Match Report – Copleston Ladies v Walsham Le Willows Ladies

 
  It’s the start of a new season of County league football this Sunday and the Supporting Women’s Football Blog is starting things off with a trip to Suffolk to watch the Champions, Copleston Ladies begin the defence of their title at home to new side Walsham Le Willows Ladies.

  Ipswich based side, Copleston Ladies came from behind to emerge top of the league last season, always having games in hand on the leading group the Suffolk Women’s League despite just having 7 teas competing was one of the most competitive over the season with anyone of 5 sides in the running for the title for a good portion of the campaign. Copleston fell behind in their fixtures due to postponements however as the others jostled for points the maths meant if they could win their games in hand they would lead the table when it really mattered on the final day. Games in hand and converting them into points isn’t always easy, but Copleston stayed strong knew the prize and won the title. Have kept most of that title winning squad together with the exception of striker Jade Horne top scorer with 24 goals last season, who has moved to Brantham Athletic Ladies. 

  Walsham Le Willows Ladies are one of three new sides to join the Suffolk Women’s Division this season as it increases to 10 sides, the others being London City Ladies and Ipswich Town Ladies new Development side. Walsham Le Willows are the former Bury Town Ladies squad, having folded and moved to start a fresh with new backing and new colours, drop down a league from the ERWFL. An experienced group who were coached formerly by Jake Francis now with Copleston Ladies. 

  The venue for today’s match, Copleston High School, situated west of Ipswich town centre. The pitch on the sports field behind the school, a very dry and wall used surface. A hot sunny afternoon with trees providing some much welcome shade on one side of the pitch, for the spectators at least.

 Copleston Ladies starting XI – Gemma Crane, Megan Stock, Shannon Giles, Leanne Derbyshire, Sadie Cullen, Hollie Akers (C), Amy Trenter, Roxanne Middle, Elysia Young, Marta Amorim & Sophie Crane.
 subs – Kara Smith & Toni Mott.

 Walsham Le Willows Ladies starting XI – Charlotte Osborne, Shelly Cocksedge, Lisa Pratt (C), Zoe Klimcke, Emma Boreham, Norma Locker, Mia Banbury, Mikaela Talbert, Gemma Carter, Laura Brame & Stephanie Hanratty.
 subs –

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

   No substitutes for the visiting side, and although Stephanie Hanratty is listed as a starter above for Walsham Le Willows she was running late, would join the action later. So Walsham Le Willows start with 10 on the field have kick off, wearing their new colours an all red strip. Copleston lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts with navy shorts and socks. 
  A tentative start to the game with both sides testing the other with long balls up the wings the full backs winning the headers, Elysia Young in the middle of the park for Copleston looks to play in Marta Amorim up the left wing looks to knock it past Walsham’s Shelly Cocksedge the defender throws out a leg takes the ball away from her. Walsham come forwards the ball with Norma Locker in midfield brings it on into the Copleston half sending the pass forwards into Laura Brame who in turn spreads play right with Gemma Carter surging down the wing hits the shot early outside the area places the ball wide of goal.

Copleston Ladies, Sophie Crane tussles with Walsham’s Gemma Carter for possession of the ball
  Despite having just the 10 on the field at the start, Walsham are pressing forwards finding space, Mia Banbury and Locker combine in the middle moving the ball forwards as captain Lisa Pratt breaks from left back to receive the pass inside the Copleston half attempts the diagonal ball into the area from Brame, the pass is intercepted by Sadie Cullen at the back for Copleston concedes the 1st corner of the match on the left side. Is a great ball fizzed in across the six yard box by Carter plenty of pace on it Mikaela Talbert has a free header far past doesn’t get it on target.
  Applying the early pressure in the game Walsham have Copleston pushed back into their own half, their attacking players having to start from near the half-way line gives the visitors defence plenty of time to set itself. A free kick won inside the Walsham half gives Copleston a chance to push players up towards their opponents area the ball is sent high up towards the edge of the box, Sophie Crane goes up for it along with Walsham’s Emma Boreham the defender getting enough on the ball to take it away from her area.
 GOAL! Walsham have the ball inside the Copleston half, Brame drives forwards towards the area looks to lay it off to Carter, Cullen slides in to intercept the ball concede the corner. Is another great ball in from Carter  whipped in from the right drops to Locker unmarked inside the six yard box, adjusts her feet and stabs the ball home with her left foot 0-1. 10 minutes played. 

Norma Locker opens the scoring for Walsham Le Willows
  Walsham continue to press put the Copleston back line under pressure, Talbert wins another corner on the left, the delivery flashed through the crowded six yard box, catches Locker by surprise gets enough of a touch to deflect the ball towards goal, between goalkeeper, Gemma Crane her defenders the ball is smuggled out for a 2nd corner on the right. A high ball into the six yard box this time Leanna Derbyshire with a firm header gets it away from the area, picked up on the right by Walsham a shot comes in from distance flies over the crossbar.
  Copleston make a change Toni Mott comes on for Amorim on the left side of attack. Amy Trenter gets hold of the ball in midfield for Copleston as the home side get a spell of possession going in the middle pushing on into the Walsham, manages to thread a pass through the defence with Mott pushing inside from the left, Charlotte Osborne in the Walsham goal is out of her area early and to the ball before Mott can reach it.
  Up the other end, Crane does the same coming out of her area to kick the ball clear of the on rushing Talbert as Pratt plays a good ball over the top. Trenter plays the ball into Sophie Crane, good hold up play before looking to send the ball up the left with Roxanne Middle breaking forwards for Copleston, Zoe Klimcke comes across to lunge in to take the ball from her. 

Zoe Klimcke brings the ball forwards from the back for Walsham Ladies

  Very nearly an own goal from Copleston, play building up down the left side for Walsham, Locker playing Talbert in down the wing carries the ball into the corner before turning inside and firing a low cross in towards the near post, Brame misses her touch which catches the defender behind her by surprise the ball deflected goalwards comes back off the post before being cleared behind for the corner. The delivery from the left is sent up towards the top of the area, Locker rising to meet it heads the ball down towards goal, plenty of power behind the header, goalkeeper Crane saves but spills the ball which is cleared off the line by a defender.

  A hot day play pauses so the players can take on fluids. Kara Smith comes on for Copleston up top replacing Crane. A throw to Walsham on the right the pass down the line sees Carter get her head down and push on with the ball, Megan Stock gets across to put in the tackle and win the ball. Comes back too easily play spread crossfield into Pratt coming on with the ball plays it on for Talbert ahead of her cutting back in field rolls the ball into Banbury 30 yards out takes two strides with the ball before opening her body and attempting to curl a shot into the top corner, not enough high to trouble Crane in the Copleston goal, palms the shot down and gathers.
  Strong running on the ball from Talbert down the left again, Shannon Giles keeps pace with her shoulder to shoulder prevents her getting inside into the area as she would like still manages to get a shot away, in low towards the near post, Crane is across and makes the save. Walsham are doing well with 10, now they have 11 on the pitch Hanratty arrived and changed to join the action. Brame sees a throw on the left into her feet, a good touch to knock it in behind then lays the ball into Talbert top of the area, jinks left then right to find a shooting opportunity instead Young gets back on her timing her tackle perfectly to put the ball behind for a corner. 

Walsham Le Willows Ladies
captain, Lisa Pratt
 
 GOAL! The 1st half moves into the last 5 minutes with Walsham having dominated throughout, now they double their advantage, is a fantastic assist by Pratt as she comes forwards with the ball on the left lobs the ball over the top of the Copleston defence with Hanratty breaking in behind, a race for the ball between her and Crane who comes rushing out to close her down, Hanratty gets there 1st lifting the ball over the keeper from the edge of the box and wheels away in celebration as the ball bounces into the back of the net 0-2.

 
  Hollie Akers, Copleston’s captain comes back into defence to win the ball back takes it forwards plays a good pass 25 yards into Smith just over half-way tries to force her way between the Walsham centre backs, Klimcke and Boreham close the door. Into added time in the 1st half, Middle plays the ball into Smith inside the Walsham half a long way from goal tries the shot none-the-less an easy take for Osborne who has had little to do.
Half-time Copleston Ladies 0-2 Walsham Le Willows Ladies

    A dominant 1st half from Walsham Le Willows have been in control from start to finish starting with 10, finding space making good runs off the ball, controlling possession haven’t had to chase the ball. Not the game I was expecting certainly. Copleston haven’t been at it at all no meaningful possession have defended deep making it hard to get anything going in attack. It can all change in football however the lead is 2-0 the next goal is crucial, Copleston need the belief it will be theirs as they kick-off the 2nd half.
  The sun is low over the trees, the shade is nice but not a help for Copleston 2nd half the goal they are defending is facing it, posing an added threat. Sophie Crane is back on up top in place of Smith for Copleston at the start of the 2nd half. Early opportunity for Brame to break up the right wing for Walsham as Banbury wins the ball, plays it out to her squares her cross along to six yard box, Cullen heads the ball out for the corner kick. Carter sends in a great delivery, Derbyshire rises highest in the centre of the six yard box to clear the ball out left for a throw. 

Copleston Ladies, Roxanne Middle evades a challenge from Walsham’s Norma Locker

  A strong start to the 2nd half by Walsham push forwards, Locker plays the ball up to Carter she headers the ball over the top with Hanratty bursting clear, went too soon the flag is up for offside. Up the other end Young plays Mott in down the left wing, a good run turns inside trying to get into the box, Klimcke comes across and going to ground slides in to make the challenge. 

 GOAL! Walsham are awarded a free kick 25 yards from goal to the right of the area, it’s Carter to take the set-piece, with the sun at her back takes on the shot hitting the ball up into the air towards goal on target dropping late, Crane is behind it throws her gloves up gets something on the ball but can’t keep it out Walsham extend their lead 0-3. 
 
Gemma Carter watches as her strike flies towards goal
  Young tries to make something happen for Copleston steals in to win the ball off a Walsham throw in the left brings it on before passing it forwards for Middle who has made a great run through the middle, closing down the Walsham area the attack ends as Boreham closes her down and tackling wins the ball back. Young with the ball at her feet pushes up the right wing lifts a high ball into the box, Osborne calls for it and catches the ball.
 
 GOAL! Talbert with a rapid turn of place breaks inside from the left wing pulls the trigger from distance sending in a dipping shot towards the near post is instinctive from Crane in goal throwing out a boot to make the safe, the ball is put behind for a corner on the left. The ball in is superb flashing across the face of goal, Talbert is central a couple of yards out unmarked nods the ball home to extend Walsham’s lead 0-4.
 
 GOAL! Walsham continue to press keeping possession of the ball inside the Copleston half a shirt pull is seen by the referee the visitors have another free-kick in almost an identical position from the one before. Carter over it looks to go for goal again a little more height on the ball, drops late onto the crossbar, falls back into the six yard box players scramble to clear the ball is cleared out to the left, picked up by Hanratty 25 yards out brings it inside before pulling the trigger sending the ball into the far corner of the net 0-5.

  The visitors are full of energy, Locker from the middle of the park plays the ball onto Banbury drifting away to the right, cuts the ball inside to Brame with Carter in close support outside the box, Cullen closes her down wins the ball. Banbury takes a throw in on the right inside the Copleston half Brame takes control of the ball top right corner of the area fires a ball across to Talbert on the opposite side she lays it into the path of Pratt advancing from deep meets the ball on the half volley 20 yards out powers the strike wide of goal. Smith returns to the action for Copleston.
 
 GOAL! Walsham extend their lead and it is a brilliant individual goal from Carter, the ball fired into her feet from midfield his in a central position outside the box, holds off her marker moving to the right, looks to turn back inside before shifting the ball right gets a half yard of space spins and hits the ball goalwards a looping effort heading for the top corner, Crane tries to get to it throwing herself across her goal the ball dipping under the bar and in 0-6.

  Middle and Trenter keep going for Copleston tough tackling to win the ball, options forwards are limited, Middle tries to pick out Smith in a central position, brings the ball down, tries to push it beyond the Walsham centre backs, Klimcke throws a leg out towards the ball pushing it away from the striker. 
 
Gemma Carter, pictured with Copleston’s Toni Mott
scores a hat-tick on the opening day of the season

 GOAL! Walsham extend their lead to 7 goals and it’s Carter who gets her hat-trick. The build up from Locker in the centre, strong running on the ball carrying it out to the right passes it forwards for Carter to run onto, shifts it inside and shots from the angle outside the box a swerving ball that flies past the keeper and into the back of the net. 0-7.

  Hard for Copleston to lift themselves know they have been out-played, Giles plays the ball onto Young as they build a counter attack down the right the ball is lifted up into the area with Smith inside running towards goal, six yards out just doesn’t get the touch that would have taken it past Osborne the keeper seeing the ball into her gloves. Young closes down the ball on half way, Trenter provides the forwards run getting in behind the Walsham defence little chance of winning the race for the ball before Osborn can collect on the edge of her area, a slight fumble from the keeper, has Trenter interested goes to close her down, Osborne shielding the ball grabs it.

Copleston’s Amy Trenter get’s the ball past Walsham’s Mia Banbury

  Talbert goes on a surging run up the left wing with the ball unleashes a low driving shot from just outside the box, Crane coming across to her near post makes a fantastic save. The ball is won back by Walsham outside the box Locker charging in goes to shot, Stock throws her body in the path of the ball blocks it. 

 
 GOAL! Late into the 2nd half and time for Walsham to score another goal, good work from Brame on the right tries to dribble her way into the box wins the corner kick. The delivery is vicious again whipped in with pace across the goal face, Talbert is free in the centre to turn the ball over the line for her 2nd of the game 0-8.

  Copleston with some good build up play down the right get the ball forwards as the game moves into injury time Stock playing a good diagonal ball into Young central, Middle makes a run out to the right, receiving the ball swings a flighted ball into the Walsham box, Smith can’t get to it before Boreham heads it clear. The ball is picked up by Akers her pass picks out Smith outside the box right of the D, 20 yards out, gets a shot away past Osborne runs wide of goal. The last action of the game as the referee blows the final whistle.
Full time Copleston Ladies 0-8 Walsham Le Willows Ladies

  Far from the start to the defence of their title than Copleston wanted, a tough result to take on the opening day of the season, can’t have too many complaints however were out played never got into the game. Their players upset and dejected, little you can do, sometimes in football these results will happen, all you can do is pick yourself up and find the determination to put it right next time. Having seen them in action before know they are more than capable of doing that.
  Take nothing away from Walsham Le Willows a great start to the season for the new club, an energetic display, getting control of the ball, moving it quickly using the wings and able to play a high line pushing Copleston back into their own half prevented their opponents from getting the ball forwards with any purpose. 
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details today, best of luck to both for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Hutton Ladies v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

 The midweek football action continued on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog with a Friday night fixture popping up on the calendar, another trip to Essex this time to the John Hornby School in Basildon to watch the ERWFL Division One game between Hutton Ladies & Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies.

Match Report – Hutton Ladies v Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

 
  Friday night football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog another trip down into Essex to watch more women’s football from the ERWFL, this time in Division One with Hutton Ladies playing Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies.

  Hutton Ladies are the home side for tonight’s fixture usually play their home fixtures at the Basildon Sports Club a short distance away. Are an established side in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League set-up. Were among the title chasers last season in the old ERWFL Division One West, one of the few sides in the ERWFL I’ve yet to see play. Also have a Reserves side competing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division. 

  Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies are late to the season didn’t start their league campaign until this Sunday earn’t a point scoring with the final kick of the ball at home to newly promoted Wymondham Town Ladies in a 3-3 draw. Aren’t running a Reserves side this season, the club however has a large squad to pick from. Are looking push on this season challenge for promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division.

  A rearranged fixture from the start of the season with both sides having players unavailable, partying at the V festival. A Friday night kick-off the easiest way to secure a 3G pitch with floodlighting. The venue for tonight’s game the John Hornby School in Basildon, I have been here before only I hadn’t remembered because it was during a hurricane for my 1st match of 2016 when only 4 fixtures survived the weather got soaked through watching Billericay Town Ladies v Acle United Ladies. Is a decent sized 3G pitch with room for supporters to stand beside safely beside it. The weather much improved dry the evening still humid but cooling.

  Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Danielle Jennings, Rianne Dimmock, Kelly Roberts (C), Hannah Page, Rhiannon Mallard-McHugh, Jessica Tuffen, Laura Allen, Amy Crumpler, Hayley Critchell & Danielle Cliffe.
  subs – Kaitlin Sugg & Keeley Walker.

  Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies starting XI – Jasmine Brooker, Courtney Fraser, Eloise Ives, Danielle Styles, Taylor Parrish, Abbie Simmonds (C), Kerri Thomas, Robyn Mudd, Libby Clarke, Georgia Fraser & Sophie Dowman.
  subs – Naomi Hayes, Taylor Adcock, Sophie Darkins, Katy Judd & Patrizia Leo

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   The floodlights starting to come on it’s Little Thurrock to kick-off the 1st half, wearing black and orange shirts, black shorts and socks with Hutton lined up opposite in an all red kit with white collar and trim on the shirts. The ball is sent long out towards the left wing early on, Hutton get possession and look to try the same up the other end of the pitch. An energetic start from both sides the ball is exchanged between the sides without the precision needed to pick anyone out. 
  Krissie Glover keeping goal for Hutton is quick to react get out to the edge of her box as Little Thurrock captain, Abbie Simmonds in the centre of midfield plays the ball in behind the defence for Sophie Dowman to chase, the keeper getting hold of the ball launching a counter move the ball into Rianne Dimmock on the left played down the line for Hayley Critchell tries to knock it past the Little Thurrock defence get down the wing, Taylor Parrish from centre back comes to tackle put the ball out for a throw. 
  Neither side is letting the other have time on the ball, closing down in midfield, Laura Allen for Hutton turn cleverly evade a challenge, brings the ball on into the Little Thurrock half threads the ball between the opposition defence, goalkeeper Jasmine Glover is out to the top of her area to gather before Danielle Cliffe can reach it in attack for Hutton. Cliffe back to goal 25 yards out holds the ball up pushing it back to Amy Crumpler coming forwards to support her, has Critchell to her left looking to make a run in behind the Little Thurrock defence, tries to play her in over the top, the pass too straight is easily gathered by Brooker.
  GOAL! Little Thurrock push forwards win a corner on the right, players coming up from the back gathering at the far post area. Is a fantastic delivery into the box flashed with pace across the six yard box, straight at Danielle Styles hits the ball on the volley a sweet strike to send the ball back across the goal face and over the line 0-1.
 
   Plenty of zip and bounce on the artificial playing surface, Little Thurrock using the width Robyn Mudd attacking up the left wing driving on with the ball keeping Hutton right back Danielle Jennings busy. On the left side attacking for Hutton, Critchell is constantly looking to play the ball around the full back run in behind, but Parrish is always there to get across and tackle beyond. Hutton have a throw deep in the Little Thurrock half, Crumpler puts the ball into Cliffe standing outside the top left corner of the box rolls it into the path of the advancing Dimmock who looks to curl her cross into the area, too close to the keeper who catches it near post.
  Little Thurrock have settled into the game quicker than Hutton closing the ball down better, the back four dropping back as a unit the midfield squeezing the ball forcing Hutton to play it backwards rather than forwards. Kelly Roberts, Hutton’s captain makes a vital interception at the back cutting out a Simmonds diagonal pass that would have seen Georgia Fraser clear to run in behind. When Hutton do go forwards Crumpler has space in the midfield as Little Thurrock drop off her, keeping tabs with those breaking forwards limiting the passing options. Crumpler very nearly threads the ball through the eye of the needle as Critchell tries cutting back inside through the centre Parrish just manages to get a toe on the ball to push it away from her.
  Getting up the left wing for Little Thurrock, Mudd gets her side a throw in, players push up the line the ball thrown long into the crowd, Dowman spins off the back knocking the ball on into the area gives chase, Hannah Page coming the other way gets to it 1st launching it out of the area for Hutton. Change for Hutton Rhiannon Mallard-McHugh comes off with Keeley Walker coming on. Little Thurrock make a substitution too, Katy Rudd on for Dowman. Hutton are awarded a free kick in a dangerous position a couple of yards outside the box on the left side indirect, Tuffen shifts it for Crumpler her strike is charged down by Simmonds the ball spins away to the right, Critchell puts her foot through it right of the D, the shot screws away from goal.
  Kerri Thomas is high up the pitch on the left side as Mudd driving forwards with the ball gets another throw in send long again Thomas receives turns inside and shoots from the top corner of the box, aiming near post Glover is behind it all the way makes the save. Thomas does well for Little Thurrock in the middle controlling the ball with her head before knocking it out to Eloise Ives on the right, she sends a long diagonal ball up towards the top of the area for Fraser, has Roberts with her the defender out muscling her headers the ball back to her keeper.
  Critchell pressing up the left forces Little Thurrock to concede the corner kick. Players come forward from the back taken from the left goes long, Roberts is under it can’t get her head on the ball, Little Thurrock clear it, Allen picks it up for Hutton 30 yards out hitting the shot on the half volley, is off target. Little Thurrock bring on Patrizia Leo in place of Ives. A corner late in the 1st half for Little Thurrock on the left the ball is fizzed into the area with pace Simmonds with the header places the ball over the crossbar.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 0-1 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

  A narrow lead for Little Thurrock at half-time, in a 1st half that has seen little goal mouth action. Scoring from a set-piece have done well as a unit to frustrate Hutton and close the ball limit their attacks. A narrow lead Hutton have come forwards well enough but been a little slow in their build up play allowing Little Thurrock plenty of time to get organised cut out the final ball. It’s Hutton to kick-off the 2nd half.
 Hutton play the ball up into the right channel win a corner straight away in the 2nd half, the ball into the box is cleared by Courtney Fraser as Little Thurrock launch a rapid counter attack the final ball hit with too much pace for Judd to get to is gathered by Glover inside the Hutton box. Judd involved in the next Little Thurrock attack the ball sent into the box from the right by Simmonds, Judd bursting into that side of goal sees the ball drop over hr shoulder, but trying to hep it goal wards does get a good connection with the ball runs on for Glover to scoop up.
  Roberts is down in her area with a muscle injury, needs to come off to recover, Kaitlin Sugg comes on. Mudd and Judd link up well on the left side, the former winning a corner off Jennings. Another good delivery fired into the area with pace behind it, too close to the keeper this time, Glover with a confident claim. Hutton’s frustration grows are a little static Cliffe goes down injured as she and Simmonds tussle for the ball in the middle of the park an ankle injury can’t continue, is carried off, Roberts recovered from her knock ready to return to the action. Little Thurrock bring off Mudd send on Sophie Darkins.
   Hutton have alot of players up the pitch for a throw on the left, the ball is won back by Little Thurrock who attack quickly the ball given to Simmonds on half-way carries it on into the Hutton half Judd sprints forwards to her right wanting the ball played into the area, Simmonds tries the diagonal ball, Page in between the pair well positioned to intercept. 
  Simmonds is seeing alot of the ball 2nd half for Little Thurrock bringing it on down the right is brought down the referee playing the advantage as Courtney Fraser latches onto the loose ball takes it in behind the Hutton defence, lifts the cross into the box Glover coming towards the ball gets a firm hold of the ball at hr near post. Judd is flagged offside for Little Thurrock as Darkins attempts the ball through the middle of the Hutton defence.
  Critchell hasn’t stopped running on the left for Hutton, has found it tough to get in behind the Little Thurrock defence the throws conceded are adding up, from one of those the ball is dropped into the feet of Hutton’s Sugg shifts it and spinning inside drives towards the area before blasting a shot on the angle into the side netting. 
  GOAL! Little Thurrock double their advantage keeping up their pressing game the ball is won inside the Hutton half, Simmonds races forwards through the middle looking to support Judd as the attacker finds an extra burst of energy to get her clear of Page at the back, reaching the top of the area holds it up as the keeper starts to come Page gets back too, The ball popping out from the pair just as Simmonds arrives her touch taking it beyond everyone and into the back of the net 0-2.
 
   Glover comes out sliding in to save the ball at the feet of Judd as she breaks into the area from the right one more played in by Darkins. The corner deliveries from Little Thurrock have been excellent something they have been working hard at in training recently. Have a corner the ball in from the left is along the six yard box met by Parrish who heads it back across goal, Hutton have players marking the posts the ball is headed clear back into the box, after a scramble a 2nd corner is conceded, swung in too close to the keeper this time Glover calls for it and claims.
  Simmonds latches onto a goal kick takes a stride with the ball then unleashes a shot right of the goal 30 yards along the ground Glover a little off guard, flicks out a boot to gets something on the ball deflects it wide across her area conceding the corner.
  GOAL! Little Thurrock are on top at this point in the 2nd half creating chance extend their lead to 3 with another well taken corner, fired in long again dissecting the six yard box it’s Styles up from the back who stoops to send a bullet of a header into the back of the net 0-3.
  Little Thurrock rotate their players making plenty of changes, Naomi Hayes coming on for Thomas. Dowman comes on for Simmonds. Critchell taking the ball up the left for Hutton, turns inside finding a half yard for a shot fires the ball in towards goal on target, Brooker is behind it palms the ball down and collects. Little Thurrock are awarded a free-kick inside the Hutton half 35 yards from goal, Georgia Fraser never-the-less takes on the shot places her effort over the bar. Ives returns the the field for Little Thurrock Fraser rested. 
  A mistake at the back from Brooker handling the ball outside her box gives Hutton an indirect free-kick right on the edge of the area, left side the ball is shifted for Crumpler to blast goal-wards powers the ball wide across the face of goal. 
  GOAL! Not long after Hutton do pull a goal back from a dead ball, have players up around the Little Thurrock area the ball is knocked into the box the referee spots a hand ball and points to the spot. Dimmock to take the penalty, sends the ball into the back lifting the ball to the keepers right 1-3. A little under 10 minutes plus stoppage to play.
  GOAL! No sooner have Hutton gotten a goal back then Little Thurrock go up the other end and add a 4th goal. A free-kick is give out wide right players pile forwards into the box the delivery is sent long Glover back pedalling as the ball looks to be going straight in top corner far post players converge from both sides the keeper can’t keep it out collides with the post the ball is over the line, Judd credited with the goal 1-4
 
  The goal has floored Hutton have 2 players down injured both including goalkeeper Glover are OK to continue little time left to play in the game into a lengthy period of injury time, Little Thurrock continue to press forwards the ball comes into the feet of Ives in space in a central position outside the box puts her foot through the ball powering it goalwards, Dimmock is pole-axed briefly as she drops to block the shot with her head deflecting it away for the corner. The set-piece is cleared the referee blowing the final whistle.    
Full-time Hutton Ladies 1-4 Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

  A 4-1 win for Little Thurrock, fully deserved put in a good performance full of energy, closing the ball down well and defensively solid keeping a good shape at the back. A real threat from set-pieces some quality balls from dead ball situations, pick up their 1st win of the season to move onto 4 points and join the chasing pack behind leaders Cambridge City Ladies. The opposite for Hutton a lack-lustre performance never really got going and heads dropped too early 2nd half. Showed some promising build up play the final ball needed to be put in quicker too often Little Thurrock were allowed to get back into position. Stay on 4 points in the chasing pack too, early days yet in the season..
 My thanks to both clubs for their help with the sides tonight, appreciated as always.

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Writtle Ladies

A Thursday night trip down into Essex for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog, to catch some early season action from the ERWFL Premier Division with a new look Colchester Town Ladies side taking on newly promoted Writtle Ladies under the floodlights at Stanway Rovers FC.

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Writtle Ladies

 
 A midweek trip down to Essex to watch a derby match in the ERWFL Premier Division with Colchester Town Ladies hosting Writtle Ladies both playing their 3rd match of the new season.

  Is a new look Colchester Town Ladies side too starting the 2016/17 season. Had a good end to last season winning the ERWFL League Cup Final. Much of that side has now left the club. Former manager Rosi Webb and a couple of others have gone to fellow ERWFL Premier Division side, Billericay Town Ladies, others have joined Lowestoft Town Ladies and C&K Basildon Ladies whilst former captain Alex Brewis-Shephard has retired from the game. 

  Adam Firman is now 1st team coach and taking charge of a new look side, Colchester have a strong youth set-up and several of their U18s have stepped up to the 1st team. Goalkeeper Molly Povey joining the club from C&K Basildon Ladies starts in goal tonight making her debut. A side still getting to know one another. Started the season with an opening day win scoring the winning goal late on, suffered the opposite in their 2nd game losing out to a last gasp winning goal. 

  Writtle Ladies are newly promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division, have had a rapid rise up the football pyramid 3 successive promotions from the Essex Women’s County Leagues up into the ERWFL Division One East last season had a 100% for almost 3 seasons in that time to lost one game towards the end of last season to end that amazing record by then however they were Champions and going up, got more silverware too winning the ERWFL Division One Cup last season aswell as finishing runners-up in the Essex Women’s County Cup. 

  Have a settled and stable playing squad backed up by a good youth set-up have made new signings, two former Colchester Town Ladies players in their ranks now, Charlotte Bryant and Lucy Jones. Lost their opening league fixture before bouncing back to win 5-1 last Sunday, both sides on 3 points going into tonight’s Essex derby.

  The venue for tonight’s game Stanway Rovers FC, not far off the A12 between a residential and industrial area. Bar and clubhouse out front beside the carpark the ground beyond. A large pitch, not the most level of playing surfaces by any means rises sharply towards one corner. Hot drinks available a cup of tea the 1st order of business. Has been another warm sunny day the evening dry, cooling slightly the floodlights taking effect as the two sides walk out for kick-off.

Colchester Town Ladies starting XI – Molly Povey, Tamesha Blackwood, Chloe Dunn, Elizabeth Blacklock, Georgia Lockerbie, Sasha McDonald, Katie Bruce, Rebecca Donnelly, Millie Wilding, Miagh Downey & Georgia Box (C).
subs – Lauren Bourne, Nancy Butler & Erin Hornby.

Writtle Ladies starting XI – Jamie-Lee Bamford, Kayleigh Franklin, Lucy Jones, Niamh Gamble, Lynette Jones, Charlotte Bryant, Ellie Bowdidge, Courtney Clarke, Leanne Stubbings, Abigail Fry (C) & Sophie Vale.
subs – Hannah Mold, Charlotte Walker, Georgia Tricker, Amelia Murphy & Mia Brisley.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 It’s Colchester to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks with Writtle lined up opposite wearing white and green horizontal striped shirts, green shorts and socks. The home side move the ball quickly into the Writtle half, captain Georgia Box giving chase to it into the right channel forces Writtle to concede a throw in the ball is given to Chloe Dunn the full-back firing a diagonal ball into the box near side is met by Miagh Downey her 1st touch a header powers the ball wide of goal.
  GOAL! It’s a goal to the away side early on as they hit Colchester on the counter attack, goalkeeper, Jamie-Lee Bamford having collected the ball from a free-kick gets it moving quickly the ball is with Leanne Stubbings in a central position as she drives forwards with the ball centrally as she drives into the Colchester half, has Writtle captain Abigail Fry making a run on the left rolls the ball into her, players pile forwards towards the top of the area, Fry squares the ball along the top of the Colchester box, Stubbings helps it on with Courtney Clarke beyond opens her body to turn the ball towards goal keeping the shot low, Molly Povey in the Colchester goal can’t get down quick enough the ball inside the post and in 0-1.
 
   Both sides are looking to build a quick attack get the ball into their attackers, Sasha McDonald for Colchester tries one over the top for Box to go after, the bounce carrying it through to Bamford in the Writtle goal. Charlotte Bryant on the ball moving forwards for Writtle through the centre of midfield plays the ball on with Stubbings making a run in behind the Colchester defence, the attack halted by the offside flag. 

  Colchester bring the ball out from the back the pass up field into Millie Wilding bringing the ball up the right passes inside to McDonald she switches play out to the left, Downey with Rebecca Donnelly, win a throw level with the top of the area, taken quickly the ball is played into Downey’s feet outside the top left hand corner of the Writtle area, her turn and hit is charged down. 

  Niamh Gamble in the Writtle back line turns defence into a attack as she tackles Box to win the ball back for the visitors and plays it long down the left wing with Fry breaking down the line, picking up the ball dribbles her way into the area closing in on goal her touch to move the ball inside is too strong gives Povey the chance to pounce on the ball send it clear of her area. Writtle are using the full width of the pitch Fry left and Sophie Vale on the right stretching the Colchester defence, Vale gets in behind looks to drive towards the area, Georgia Lockerbie closes her down a good tackle to win the ball back. 

  Throw on the right for Colchester inside the Writtle half, Dunn to take throws in towards Box near the top right corner of the area, good hold up play before laying the pass back to the advancing McDonald she looks to swing a diagonal ball into the area, Downey and Donnelly up there, in between them Writtle’s Lynette Jones rises highest to head the ball out of danger. 

  GOAL! The game is being played at a rapid tempo the ball played up field quickly as an attack is broken down, Writtle win the ball back push it on into midfield the ball then put long for Vale to receive on the right, getting in behind the Colchester defence turns inside to close down the area, Povey starts to come, Vale opts to shoot from outside the area blasting the ball across the advancing keeper and into the far corner of the net0-2.

  A change of positions for Colchester switching full-backs Dunn moving to the left, Tamesha Blackwood coming over to the left. Writtle press the ball high up the pitch, Stubbings has it right side puts the ball into Vale, Kayleigh Franklin from right back goes on the overlap the ball cut back in towards the top of the area looking to pick out Clarke near side, Blackwood gets back on her to prevent her getting the ball under control and unleashing a shot. On the opposite flank the ball is with Fry as she takes it down to the byline whips the cross on near post Clarke has made the run turning the ball on towards goal her effort is blocked. 

  Colchester make two substitutions, Donnelly and Katie Bruce off, on come Lauren Bourne and Nancy Butler. A corner for Writtle on the right side the ball played long towards the far post is met by Fry, can’t keep her header down the ball going out for the goal-kick. 

  GOAL! Writtle are seeing more of the ball have possession inside the Colchester half win a free kick wide on the right the ball in a deep position, Vale over it as players come up from the back the ball is sent long into the box near post two green and white stripe shirted players look to attack it the ball instead is cleared out of the area comes to a Writtle boot knocked across to Ellie Bowdidge outside the area in a central position takes the shot on 20 yards out powering the ball into the back of the net over the keeper before she can react 0-3.

  A free kick from an almost identical position a moment later the ball sent up into the area again, more central this time comes to Bowdidge can’t bring it under control before she is closed down by the Colchester defence. Fry keeps finding room on the left for Writtle swings in a good cross, Clarke the target, Elizabeth Blacklock clears the ball with her head. A free kick to Writtle wide left this time, Vale looks to go for goal sending a ball high, it drops late, too late however onto the roof of the net.

 Erin Hornby comes on for Colchester replacing, Blackwood at right back. Vale with another set-piece on the right lifts the ball up into the box Clarke central is challenged by Dunn the Colchester defender doing well against her to win the ball. The free-kick count for Writtle is adding up have another outside the box to the left of goal, Fry over this one curls the ball in aiming for the top corner near post on target, Povey does fantastically well to get a glove on the ball take it behind for the corner.

  GOAL! Is a fantastic delivery from the corner on the left, Vale whipping the ball in along the six yard box keeping it low, is met by Clarke coming in far post gets her foot on the ball to stab it in towards goal and over the line 0-4. 

  Colchester attack from the restart the ball played up the right wing by Bourne for Box to go after, a clever turn to take her inside into the box, looks to send it across the ball cut out by the Writtle defence comes back to Downey inside the D shifts it to open up a shooting opportunity, hits the ball hard takes a deflection taking it wide for the corner kick. The ball is swung into the area from the right just over Blacklock on the penalty spot the ball headed out only as far as Wilding 20 yards out right of the area hits the shot 1st time off target goes wide.

Half-time Colchester Town Ladies 0-4 Writtle Ladies

  A comfortable lead for Writtle at half-time as they remain on the field at half-time, Colchester head to the dressing room needing to sort a few things out. Have been stretched at the back by Writtle’s movement the visitors switching play well, Fry and Vale using the wide pitch to their full advantage. 
 It’s Writtle to kick-off the 2nd half, look for Fry on the left early, can’t keep the ball in play. Franklin pushes forwards on the right side going past Vale wins her side a corner kick. Vale to delivery it swept in centrally, Clarke jumps can only brush the ball with her head, is cleared behind her, Writtle winning it back outside the box the ball is sent back in bounces through to Povey who gathers without challenge. 
  Colchester are playing a slightly higher line at the start of the 2nd half twice they catch Writtle offside. Clarke on the drive with the ball for Writtle through the middle of the park has Vale ahead of her outside the D lays the ball to Fry left side the pair exchange passes before the cross is swung into the box, Dunn gets it away for Colchester. Colchester look a lot tighter at the back 2nd half, closer and closing the ball quicker are penned in their own half not able to release Box up top.
  Free-kick for Colchester inside the Writtle half, Blacklock over the ball sends it up into the area, McDonald is under the bouncing ball, trying to bring it under control is closed down by 3 Writtle defenders the ball won back. Writtle make two changes firstly bringing on Georgia Tricker for Bryant, then Hannah Mold comes on for Franklin. Bourne battles her way through the middle with the ball for Colchester before playing the pass to Box on her left, tries to square the ball back to Bourne is squeezed off it the throw conceded, Dunn getting forwards has a chance to hit the ball into the area her cross to the far post is sliced back across the six yard box by Gamble as she attempts to clear, no one on had for Colchester to pounce the ball is safely away.
  3rd substitution for Writtle, Bowdidge is replaced by Charlotte Walker. A little flat from Writtle are looking to lift it still with a comfortable 4-0 lead, Colchester have upped their tempo the ball being contested at every opportunity. 4th change for Writtle, Clark coming off to be replaced by  Amelia Murphy. Colchester bring the ball on down the right, Butler passing into Box outside the area switches play to the right Downey shooting from outside the area slices hr shot straight into Bamford’s mid-riff.
  A powerful run from Tricker in midfield, left of the goal hits the shot on the run from 25 yards out drills the ball wide across the area. Mia Brisley comes on for Writtle for Vale the move seeing Fry switch over to the right side. Colchester concede a free-kick outside their area to the left of the D 25 yards out, Tricker I think plays the shot in towards goal on target Povey looks to palm it down but it gets away from her rolling to the right 2 Writtle players are after it Walker nudging the ball onto the post, Gamble ensuring it goes over the line, the celebrations are cut short however it won’t count the flag is up for offside.
   Downey central connects with the ball well sending a low shot in from 30 yards out as Box passes the ball in field from the left. On target Bamford dives to her right pushes the ball wide of her goal, Mold then getting onto it 1st and clearing before Box following up can latch on to it. Blackwood returns to the field for Colchester with Lockerbie coming off at the back. Butler over on the right outside the Writtle box hustles the defence to win the ball lays it back for Hornby to swing a ball into the middle Bourne can’t quite bring it down outside the back before she is closed down and tackled by Jones. 
  The game continues to be played at a good tempo, Writtle’s Tricker has space to take advantage of on the right, plays the cross into the box, Murphy closest to the ball attempts a back heel doesn’t come off runs through Brisley beyond she opts for power blasting a shot at goal, Hornby is in the way throws her body into the shot blocking it. Bruce is back on for Colchester a straight switch for McDonald in the middle. Are working hard in defence to keep things tight, Writtle have threats all over the park now, Tricker latches onto a clearance on the right goes for goal some 30 yards out a low strike is off target but coming across to cover her near post Povey can’t be sure dives to stop the ball then is up quickly to gather.
  GOAL! Colchester have been much improved 2nd half putting in a lot of effort to keep Writtle out up one end get forwards to pull a goal back, counter attack down the right the ball turned inside, Downey tries to help it on for Box in loads of space on the left the initial ball is cut out, Colchester squeeze it central win it back, Downey picking out Box with the pass this time to send her clear into the Writtle area, one on one with Bamford hits a composed strike up over the keeper to put the ball into the back of the net 1-4.
 
  Very nearly concede up the other end, Fry racing clear on the right is picked out by Stubbings taking the ball on down the wing turns inside into the box, Povey comes out to meet her sliding in at her feet to take the ball cleanly. Writtle with the attack late on Bowdidge plays the ball over the top for Fry to go after, Colchester concede the corner kick. Played in from the right, Stubbings near side chests the ball on into the middle, Colchester clear the referee blowing the final whistle. 
Full-time Colchester Town Ladies 1-4 Writtle Ladies

 A much improved 2nd half performance from Colchester 2nd half matching Writtle better after the visitors blew them away in the 1st half scoring an early goal and following up with 3 more. With a 4 goal advantage didn’t need to press on as much 2nd half but were looking to add to the tally. Fry and Vale doing the damage in the wide positions. A 2nd win of the season for Writtle sees them up to 3rd in the Premier Division table, still very early days the season just 3 weeks old.
  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details today always appreciated.

Match Report – Cambridge United Ladies v Lewes Ladies

Action from the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup this Sunday upon the Supporting Women’s Football Blog a trip to Mildenhall Town FC to watch Cambridge United WFC take on higher league opponents, Lewes Ladies from the FAWPL Southern Division the visitors.

Match Report – Cambridge United WFC v Lewes Ladies

 
  This Sunday sees the focus in the FAWPL switches from the league to the Cup with all of the 70 sides contesting the 6 Division’s drawn against each other in a Determining Round to decide which competition they will go on to the winners entering the FAWPL Cup competition which was won Tottenham Hotspur Ladies last season the losing sides going on to contest the FAWPL League Plate won by Coventry United Ladies. 

  Today’s match in the Determining Round sees me travel the short distance to Mildenhall Town FC to watch South East Division One side, Cambridge United WFC as they take on Southern Division side, Lewes Ladies. 

  Has been a fair amount of player movement at Cambridge United WFC over the close season as the club looks to build on last seasons record points haul in the FAWPL South East Division One and achieve their aim of promotion to the FAWPL Southern Division. Dawn Mallett has joined the club having had a brief spell on loan last season, has plenty of WSL 2 experience and will provide added steel to the midfield a useful player with a dead ball too. Nicole Perschky and Hollie Jardine both join the club from Stevenage Ladies. Evie Gallop comes to the club from the Essex Centre of Excellence. Ashleigh Deacon joins from Watford Ladies and just this week the club announced the arrival of Rosie Kmita having left Tottenham Hotspur Ladies a coup for the club, however she was unavailable to play in today’s cup tie. A good test for Cambridge today in the Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup taking on a side from the league above.

  Lewes Ladies have in recent seasons established themselves in the FAWPL Southern Division and this season have gotten their season off to a fantastic start winning their opening fixture 7-2 at home to West Ham United Ladies and holding one of the title favourites Cardiff City Ladies to a 1-1 to lay 2nd in the fledgling table. A good start one to build on as their attention switches to the Cup, a long journey up from the South for today’s Determining Round tie. Have a few new signings in their squad too, Rebecca Carter comes to Lewes from Crawley Wasps Ladies. Kim Stenning has playing experience with both Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses prior to joining Lewes Ladies whilst Fliss Love has signed on having been with Brighton’s Centre of Excellence. Have defender Rebecca Thompson back fit to after being out with a long term achilles injury. 

  Mildenhall Town FC is the venue for today’s match, Cambridge United WFC’s new home ground for the 2016/17 season. Easy to find close to the town centre, a fantastic playing surface sloping from one end to the other. Nice clubhouse and refreshments are available hot and cold. A fantastic playing surface the grass lush and green a slope on the pitch from one goal mouth to the other, a good size too. Several dark clouds around, threatening a shower or two, the sun eventually breaking through before kick-off.

  All clubs across the FAWPL holding a minutes applause before their matches in remembrance of 18-year-old Zoe Tynan who tragically passed away on Tuesday. A young talent gone too soon an U19 England International had recently joined Fylde Ladies. Thoughts are with her family and friends.

Applause in remembrance of Zoe Tynan before the match

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Hollie Jardine, Kayleigh-Anne Burt (C), Paige Logie, Tahnee Perfect, Evie Gallop, Laura Mills, Ashleigh Deacon, Becky Taylor & Nicole Perschky.
  subs – Carrie Bennett, Dawn Mallett & Faith Hewitt.

  Lewes Ladies starting XI – Lauren Dolbear, Hayley West, Charlie Carter, Rebecca Thompson, Kelly Newton (C), Georgia Bridges, Katie McIntyre, Kellie Larkin, Rachel Palmer, Rebecca Carter & Gabby Baldock.
  subs – Kim Stenning, Danielle Lane & Fliss Love.

  A slight knock for Cambridge’s captain, Laura Bright saw her sit out the match with vice-captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt wearing the arm band, Paige Logie joining her at centre back for today’s match. A switch of ends at the coin toss sees Lewes take advantage of the slope 1st half with Cambridge kicking off the game wearing the new Cambridge United strip amber shirts with black vertical lines, black shorts and amber socks. Lewes are in their away colours, an all sky blue kit. Referee David Sorensen has a flat whistle as he blows to start the game a vigorous shake later and it’s back in business.

  A free kick straight away in the middle for Cambridge as Tahnee Perfect is bundled over a chance to pile players forwards up to the edge of the Lewes penalty box, Kayleigh-Anne Burt over the set-piece flighted up to the top of the area it’s Lewes Charlie Carter who heads the ball clear. Lewes break down the left with Gabby Baldock on the ball taking it into the Cambridge half turns in field, is tackled by Cambridge’s Evie Gallop the ball going out for a throw in. Lewes make headway down the left before the attempted cross goes out of play for a goal kick.

Cambridge United WFC’s, Evie Gallop contesting the ball with
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre

  Kellie Larkin is busy in the middle for Lewes at the start of the match imposing herself on the ball and driving forwards with it at her feet shifts play out to the right with Hayley West coming forwards from right back sends the ball on down the line for Rebecca Carter who whips a cross into box, Cambridge’s Hollie Jardine lunges at the ball turning it behind for the corner kick

 GOAL! Less than 5 minutes on the clock and a chance for Lewes who have some tall players in their ranks to bring them forwards to attack the corner kick Kate McIntyre takes the corner is a fantastic delivery whipped into the box with pace, finds Georgia Bridges unmarked facing the near post gets her head over the ball knocking it in past goalkeeper Verity Crook and over the player at the post before she can react. 0-1.

  A good start from the visitors are causing Cambridge a few problems, Larkins with support from captain Kelly Newton in midfield in particular with Carter up front moving across the pitch to find pockets of space to receive the ball. It’s Carter in possession around the top right corner of the Cambridge box receiving from a throw-in good footwork as she tries to wriggle her way into the area, Burt comes across to make the tackle the ball isn’t cleared far comes back in Cambridge concede the corner. From the right goes long, however the referee spots a push on Crook the free-kick is awarded to Cambridge.

Kellie Larkin on the ball for Lewes Ladies

  More forceful running from Rebecca Carter down the right wing, drives on before squaring the ball into the Cambridge area, players from both sides have been drawn across the pitch, West has gotten forwards is looking to gt on the end of the cross hit a shot goalwards a yard inside the area, Cambridge’s Emma Jenkins closes her down the opportunity is gone. Cambridge aren’t getting much success up front in the opening 15 minutes Laura Mills right and Deacon left trying to make themselves available aren’t getting much change out of Thompson and West in the full-back positions. 

  Counter attack for Lewes, Baldock sending Rebecca Carter away down the left flank, races after the ball, wants to travel inside towards goal, Burt getting back on her forces her wide gets into the box the angle is against Carter nevertheless the gets a shot away with the outside of her boot, Crook has gotten across to cover her near post the shot lacking the power to beat her. 

Lewes ladies, Gabby Baldoock

  Cambridge having been on the back foot are starting to get some joy on the flanks play drawn inside Jenkins is able to run onto the ball in space on the right side her cross into the box is over Nicole Perschky, is cleared by the defender behind for a throw in the right, put back into the Lewes area West clears out to the middle, Mills latches onto it from 25 yards plus out sends the ball arrowing back in towards goal skims the top of the crossbar as it goes out for a goal-kick.

  A fantastic save from Lewes goalkeeper Lauren Dolbear to keep the 1 nil advantage in tack. Lewes are on the attack the ball is won back as Paige Logie tackles Carter at the back sends the ball long over the top clearing the Lewes defence caught static for a moment not Perschky however as she breaks clear getting her foot on the ball a one on one situation with the keeper developing, carrying the ball inside looks to shoot from outside the box curl the shot around the keeper with her left foot, Dolbear flings herself to her right getting a good glove on the ball turning it wide for the corner kick. Lewes defend the corner at the near post.the ball landing straight at the feet of Becky Taylor 25 yards out left of the box hits the shot back in sending the ball wide across the goal face. 

  This is a busy game alot happening both sides enjoying the pitch the ball travelling well upon it. Baldock has possession wide left for Lewes picks out a great pass to find Larkin central going forwards looks the lift the ball into the area with Bridges trying to steal in behind the Cambridge defence, the lob almost comes off, Logie just stretches her neck muscles to turn the ball away. 

 GOAL! Just as Cambridge look like they might find a way to level things up, Lewes get down the other end and double their advantage getting the ball down the left deep into the Cambridge half win a throw the ball is played into Larkin inside the box her shot is blocked the deflection sends the ball across the six yard box with Rebecca Carter well placed to hit the ball towards goal and score 0-2. 

 Half an hour played and their has been little respite from both sides. Larkin pushes on with the ball taking it to the right as she travels deep into the Cambridge half has Rebecca Carter with her charging on down the wing, has kept Jardine busy on that side the Cambridge left back stops the cross putting the ball out for a corner. Carter breaks from the middle of the area towards the near post to receive the corner lifts her boot connecting with the ball places it wide.

  Cambridge break the ball fizzed into Perschky back to goal inside the Lewes half, sends the ball out to the right with Mills racing into space getting it onto her feet hits the cross early along the face of the box with players from both sides racing up the pitch, it’s Taylor 20 yards out who latches onto the ball hitting it on the volley, plenty of power in the little chance to control it blasts the effort wide. 

 GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of an action packed 1st half, Cambridge regain possession of the ball at the back as Lewes attack, launch a rapid counter move as Taylor brings the ball on picking out Perschky with a brilliant pass the striker turns and sprints towards the Lewes area her run identical to her earlier move only this time travelling into a central position reverses the shot playing it back across the diving Dolbear to her left and scores 1-2.

   Cambridge find time for on more attack in the 1st half Taylor bringing the ball on down the right, Perschky makes a move out to the wing wanting the ball, gets it then tries to pick out Mills making a run through the middle to get up into the area, the cross swerves in towards Dolbear who comfortably gathers

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-2 Lewes Ladies

  A busy 1st half full of entertainment, Lewes getting off to a fantastic start taking an early lead and dominating for a spell took Cambridge a little while to get into the game and just when they did they fell 2 nil down. Kept going and pulled a goal back late in the half to keep this Determining Round of the FAWPL Cup very much alive.
  Lewes get the 2nd half underway, any chance of rain has gone the sun bathing down now. A double change for the visitors at the start Baldock and Bridges are off with Kim Stenning and Fliss Love coming on. Haven’t even picked up my notepad and Lewes have the ball in the back of the net, Carter free on the right whips a cross into the box, Newton I think is the player who bundles it home, however it doesn’t stand as the linesman’s flag is raised.
  Deacon fouls Love wide on the right, McIntyre takes the free-kick playing the ball up the line for West to go after plays an early ball across the top of the box looking for Stenning, instead it’s Logie that gets to it first to head clear. Cambridge bring the ball over the half-way line the pass is to Perschky wide left 25 yards out plays the ball crossfield into Perfect who helps it on to Mills, has Jenkins go beyond her on the overlap plays her puts the ball into the box with Perfect trying to get in there, Charlie Carter charges down the ball and it’s cleared.
Lewes Ladies, Katie McIntyre gets the ball just ahead of Cambridge’s Ashleigh Deacon
 Cambridge are giving a few free-kicks away, gives the chance for McIntyre to play the ball up into the area, is on the ball wide right is virtually a corner kick, is swept into the area at a good height, Taylor back defending for Cambridge heads clear. Love on the ball on the right switches play well putting the ball inside to Larkin who in turn helps it further on for Palmer who strikes from outside the box, slices the ball away from goal. A change for Cambridge as the game approaches the 60 minute mark with Dawn Mallett returning from an injury lay-off coming on to replace Perfect. 
 Cambridge are getting much more possession of the ball 2nd half attacking down the slope, Perschky with the crossfield ball left to right for Mills rolls it back into the middle for Mallett, returns the pass Mills down the wing plays the ball into the box, Charlie Carter near post heads the ball away. Cambridge make a 2nd change Gallop coming off for Faith Hewitt. Cambridge win a free-kick wide right inside the Lewes half Mallett to put the ball in is cleared from the top of the area by Lewes, Jenkins picks it up for Cambridge on the right sends it back in Thompson heads it out this time the counter is on Love travelling with the ball looks to play it on for Carter, the offside flag stops her in her tracks.

Emma Jenkins
  Cambridge are applying much of the pressure 2nd half however Lewes are defending well, deep not allowing any way in behind. Jardine able to get forwards a little more 2nd half sends a long ball up into the area, looking for Perschky, West does well against her heads it back out of the area is gathered by Mallett 35 yards out sends the shot back in held by Dolbear. Cambridge continue to pressurise Perschky gathering the ball on the run taking it into the area from the left hits it towards goal is straight at Dolbear. 
 For a moment there everyone in the crowd thinks Cambridge have been awarded a penalty, as Taylor dribbling the ball towards the Lewes area is fouled by Charlie Carter it’s just outside however inside the D right side. Mallett on the free-kick hit’s it hard and low, the Lewes wall does its job blocking the shot and getting out to clear. Love is energetic finding space with some lively footwork to get clear of her markers for Lewes pushing inside from the right has Newton making a forwards run for her to get into the Cambridge box, Burt stretching just manages to get to it 1st.
  With 10 minutes of normal time left Lewes make their final change bring on Danielle Lane for Larkin. The visitors have a corner on the right the delivery into Rebecca Carter a good header from 10 yards out angling for the top corner, Crook shifting to her left jumps and plants her gloves firmly around the ball.Final change for Cambridge a straight swap at left back with Carrie Bennett coming on for Jardine 7 minutes left still 2-1 to Lewes.
 

Cambridge captain, Kayleigh-Anne Burt

Cambridge continue to push hard for an equalising have to risk getting hit on the counter 
but both sides are tiring. Perschky has been a threat all game for Cambridge manages to get past Charlie Carter at the back for once, Love tracking back lunges in to win the ball put it out for a throw. Left side the ball is played into Mallett central a great turn gives her a half yard of space 25 yards out to shout puts the ball straight into Dolbear’s midriff.

  Closing in on the 90 minute mark Cambridge push on the game is stretched, Stenning gets onto the end of a Palmer cross in from the left, looping up Crook holds onto the ball. At the other end Taylor is sent clear through the middle it’s a case of can she be closed down before she gets the ball away into the D, treads on the ball the chance is gone. Into injury time 5 minutes to be added Lewes attack the ball from Lane into Stenning on to Rebecca Carter right she crosses the ball in, Burt gets enough on the ball her deflection taking all the power off the ball runs safely through to Crook. 
 GOAL! A late, late corner for Cambridge players are sent forwards as Mills sends a fantastic ball into the six yard box is headed out of the area by Lewes Cambridge getting hold of it on the left the ball lifted back in is knocked on Hewitt volleys the ball goalwards it rattle the crossbar drops back down into the area Taylor is sharp nipping in to take it then sends the shot into the back of the net to cue wild celebrations as Cambridge make it 2-2. 
 
Becky Taylor scores the equalising goal at the death for
Cambridge United WFC to force the game into extra-time
Full-time Cambridge United WFC 2-2 Lewes Ladies

  That’s virtually it time for Lewes to get the ball up the other end but not enough time to retake the lead the game ends with the scores level at 2-2 and the game will see another 30 minutes of added time played. Cambridge were the stronger side 2nd half pushing forwards creating chance finding hard to break down a resolute Lewes defence time was running out scoring with their last attack in added time. All substitutes played by both sides which side would find the energy for another goal in extra-time.

Extra-time

Lewes Ladies and Cambridge United WFC rest and prepare for an additional 30 minutes
  Cambridge to kick off the 1st 15 minute period of extra-time attacking back up the slope. Have an early chance as the ball is played out to the right Love onto Carter her cross in towards the near post is met by Stenning sends the ball high over the bar. Hewitt for Cambridge launches a shot goalwards from 30 yards out is off target. Cambridge get the ball in from the right win a corner kick Taylor comes towards the ball inside the box drills a head down towards goal is blocked the deflection taking it behind for another corner. 
  Charlie Carter goes into the book as she brings down Hewitt in the centre circle the Cambridge attack almost away after she wins a 50/50 challenge. Mallett plays the ball into the box West and Hewitt go up for it the ball is knocked down across goal Mills meets it on the volley drives over the crossbar. 
 Mallett is fouled in a similar position to the earlier free-kick a little higher up the pitch Players go up into the box, Lewes’ Dolbear claims it they launch a counter attack the ball swept out to Rebecca Carter on the right over half way has support inside from McIntyre plays the ball inside takes on the strike from distance, gets plenty of pace on the ball, Crook leaps across to cover the top corner on her left the shot is just wide. 
  The scores remain 2-2 as the 1st half of extra-time comes to an end, Cambridge to attack down the slope in the 2nd period, Lewes kick-off
 GOAL! There is a goal right at the start of the 2nd period of extra-time the Lewes are on the attack the ball played into McIntyre in the centre brings it on into the Cambridge half passes out to Palmer free on the left, hits the cross early on the diagonal looping the ball up with Stenning going far post. it’s an own goal as Logie attempting to get her head on the ball can only turn it past the stranded Crook and into the back of the net. 2-3.

 12 minutes left to play can Lewes hold on to take the victory. Cambridge come forwards down the right Jenkins plays a long ball up towards the top corner of the area Dolbear coming for the ball claims well with Taylor breathing down her neck. 

Cambridge United WFC’s Dawn Mallett
 GOAL! The lead is sort lived as Cambridge winning the ball back inside their own half have Mallett on the ball plays a fantastic long pass over the top towards Perschky drifting left, receiving the ball turns inside heads towards the box seeing the danger Dolbear comes racing out to meet her goes down as she blocks the ball with her feet, the keeper grounded, the trapped ball hasn’t gone anywhere, Perschky has stayed on her feet can knock it past the keeper on the edge of the area and sends it home to equalise, races over to the bench to celebrate. 3-3

 Neither side settling for the looming penalty shootout Lewes attack Love with the ball up into Stenning right side into the box her shot straight into Crook across to cover her near post. The ball is soon up the other end the pass long into the box looking for Perschky, Thompson gets back on her to win the ball. Pushing forwards little time left Deacon is played in by Perschky down the left Taylor makes a run through the middle into the box left goes to put the ball across the six yard for Mills, Palmer tracking back defends getting there 1st the ball is cleared but only as far as Mallett who strikes from distance the shot wide.

 Full-time extra-time and the game will go to penalties.

Penalties
 
  Cambridge to get the penalty shootout underway the players opting to walk down the slope and take the penalties that end. Taylor up 1st for the home side hits the ball hard to the Dolbear’s right she guesses right but her dive is in vain 1-0.
 
  Stenning is up 1st to take the penalty for Lewes keeps it low and accurate into the bottom corner to Crook’s left 1-1.
 
  2nd penalty taker for Cambridge is Perschky, hits a high penalty into the back of the net evading Dolbear who again guesses the right way 2-1.
 
  Palmer takes Lewes’ 2nd penalty a good penalty kept down to the keepers left 2-2.
 
 Cambridge captain, Burt to take the 3rd penalty lifts her effort up over the keeper and into the top of the net3-2
 
  Lane to take Lewes 3rd penalty, goes to place the ball low into the bottom corner, Crook guesses right throwing herself to her right gets her gloves on the ball to push it away, save the score remains 3-2.
 
  Cambridge’s 4th penalty taker is Jenkins goes to put the ball down the middle, Dolbear makes a comfortable save stays 3-2.
 
  Charlie Carter up next for Lewes again looks to hit the ball low to the keepers right, Crook throws herself at it and saves another still 3-2.
 
  One penalty of the regular 5 left for Cambridge score it and they win the Cup tie. It’s Mallett to take hits the ball low and accurate into the bottom left corner to win it for Cambridge 4-2.
 
Cambridge celebrate after winning on penalties
   That’s it Cambridge win the penalty shootout 4-2 to end a cracking game of football the players race into the area in celebration piling on top of Mallett. It’s a tough way to end a match but has to be settled one way. So Cambridge advance to the League Cup proper whilst Lewes will contest the League Plate not too many sides will fancy drawing them. 35 sides contesting each competition a preliminary round will take place to bring it down to 32 for the 1st round proper.
  A great advert for women’s football the game ebbed and flowed, drama Cambridge coming back from 2-0 to score an equaliser deep in injury time to force extra-time, both sides going on to score in extra-time then the drama of penalties. I’m exhausted writing this match report so can only imagine how the players feel.
  My thanks to Lewes Ladies, Jane Roberts for her help with the team details today. Best of luck to both sides for their respective cup competitions. 

Match Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

 The midweek football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the ERWFL Division One on Wednesday evening a trip down to Hertfordshire to watch Colney Heath Ladies play newly promoted Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Champions, Cambridge City Ladies.

Match Report – Colney Heath Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies

 

  The mid-week football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog starts with a Wednesday night match from the ERWFL Division One. A trip to Hertfordshire to watch Colney Heath Ladies v Cambridge City Ladies.

  A new look to the Eastern Region Women’s Football Leagues (ERWFL) 2nd tier this season with there previously being two Division One’s, geographically North & South, or East & West as they were last season, for the 2016/17 there will be a single Division One with 11 teams competing. Both Colney Heath Ladies and Cambridge City Ladies began their league season on Sunday with contrasting results, a busy week for both playing tonight then again on Sunday.

  Colney Heath Ladies have been competing in the ERWFL since the start of the 2014/15 season merging with Colney Heath FC, having previously been St Albans City Ladies. Have one of the youngest squads in the league, one to watch. Struggled in the league last season one of many suffering from a lack of matches unable to get any momentum due to the high number of postponed matches, injuries too. Have showed their best form for the cup competitions reaching the final of the ERWFL League Plate for 2 successive seasons. Having seen them in then finish runners-up on both occasions this will be my 1st look at them at their home ground in league action. Have made additions to the playing squad over the close season, one of which, Ria Gray returning to the game after a spell away is in the starting XI tonight. Haven’t got everyone available at the start of the season, have injuries too, notably to their goalkeeper. Suffered a heavy 7-0 defeat away to newly promoted Norfolk Champions, Wymondham Town Ladies on Sunday having just 10 players available.

  Cambridge City Ladies are newly promoted to the  ERWFL set-up going up as Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership Champions. Achieving a league and cup double in their 1st season playing adult football, a side that has risen together through the youth leagues. The League Cup success back at the end of last season the final game for now for several with the club as they head off to attend university. Applying for promotion it was with the knowledge the club may have to and were willing in push some of their U16 into the senior squad. Have been busy over the close season however the club bolstered by a host of new arrivals pulling players away from city rivals Cambridge United WFC having been with the club at youth level. Gemma Clare with Bar Hill Ladies previously and coach of the Cambridge City U14s team has also joined along with Stacey Fullicks making the switch from Netherton United Ladies. Began life in the ERWFL with a comfortable 5-0 win at home against Beds & Herts Women’s Division One Champions, Hertford Town Ladies.

  The venue for tonight’s game The Recreation Ground in Colney Heath home of Colney Heath FC. Easy to find in the way into St Albans off the A1. A large clubhouse and bar housing the changing room facilities off to the side of the pitch a small seated area built off it along the side with the dugouts further down. A good sized pitch, wide has a distinct slope from one goal mouth to the other, training pitches further on. Got the feeling of a community based club as soon as I arrived the women’s side very much an integral part of the club. Has been a dry August on the whole and the pitch did look a little dry in places but then so does my lawn, bit of rain it’ll soon green up again. After another hot day to end the month there were some dark clouds around that hinted at a shower that wouldn’t materialise.  

 Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Annie Hickey, Viki Allen, Eustacia Randles, Rachel Sherlow, Kirsty Feasey, Lucy Hancock, Sophie Joseph (C), Kelly Hancock, Ria Gray, Sammy May & Holly Sheridan.
 subs – Georgia Knight.

 Cambridge City Ladies starting XI – Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Liv Abbott, Lauren Tomlinson, Robyn Phillips, Becca Fay (C), Emily Reed, Stacey Fullicks, Carla Penny, Sarah Mosley, Charlotte Gillies & Grace Stanley.
 subs – Jade Powell, Bella Simmons, Rachel Pearce & Emma Littlewood.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  A 7:30pm kick-off the floodlights warming up as the sun starts to set low in the sky it’s Cambridge City to get the game underway wearing their away strip, sky blue shirts and socks with white shorts with Colney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The home side are attacking down the slope 1st half. 

  Annie Hickey is the stand-in goalkeeper for Colney Heath this evening, gets an early kick of the ball as Cambridge City force the ball to be played back to her. A quiet start the ball toing and froing between the sides as they probe each others defences. On the ball for Cambridge City, Stacey Fullicks spreads the play out to the right wing, Charlotte Gillies running onto the ball wins the visitors a corner kick. The set-piece finds its way through to Carla Penny positioned on the top of the area, bouncing the ball won’t sit for the shot as Colney Heath close her down win the ball and clear it.

  Cambridge City come again, Sarah Mosley on the ball through the middle bringing it on into the Colney Heath half picks out Gillies run on the right goes for the early strike drilling the ball towards the near post from outside the box, Hickey has the angle covered sees the bouncing ball up into her gloves. The pace of the game is quickening up,Colney Heath play the ball through the middle with pace try to put over the top for striker, Holly Sheridan to go after, Cambridge City captain, Becca Fay closes her down to tackle and win the ball back before Sheridan can wind up a shot.

  Fullicks links up with Gillies on the right going on past her and getting the return ball reaching the top of the box doesn’t get the connection on the ball she was looking for as she goes to shoot the ball trickles safely into the keepers gloves. With five across the middle Colney Heath are energetic, closing Cambridge City down and winning the ball looking to get it up to Sheridan at every opportunity. 

  GOAL! That pressing brings about the opening goal as the ball is cleared into the midfield by Cambridge City, it’s Colney Heath’s Kirsty Feasey who closes the ball down and winning it plays it forwards, Sheridan timing her turn perfectly to break clear of the Cambridge City defence and carry the ball towards the box, Tafadzwa Mhunduru starts to come off her line, Sheridan goes for the chip outside the box the ball clearing the advancing keeper and nestling in the back of the net 1-0 Colney Heath take the lead on the 12th minute.

Colney Heath Ladies Holly Sheridan

Colney Heath Ladies
Holly Sheridan

  A hand ball spotted against Colney Heath by the referee as Cambridge City play the ball up the left channel for Penny to chase the set-piece 25 yards from goal to the left of the goal, Penny is the player over the ball for Cambridge City, goes for goal looking to send a high ball in hasn’t enough lift Hickey with time to set herself and make a comfortable save. The battle for the ball in the middle continues to be frantic, Kelly Hancock tackling does the splits manages to get the ball out to Sheridan who has come over to the right gets the Cambridge City defence turned again the ball put out for the throw. Cambridge City win possession of the ball counter attack, the ball played up through the middle for Grace Stanley to go after, Hickey makes the decision to run out of her area kicks the ball clear before Stanley can reach it.

  Sammy May with the ball at her feet gets her head down and drives through the middle of the park, is clipped 30 yards from goal wins the free-kick. Takes it herself looking to play it up towards the far post area to be attacked, a little too straight Mhunduru can come and claim it. Up the other end Hickey moves smartly to the edge of her box on the right to slide in and gather the ball with Gillies looking to turn inside from a throw-in. A double save from the stand-in keeper in the next attack Gillies put clear through the Colney Heath defence on the right closes in on the box pulls the trigger, Hickey making the save with her feet, the ball cleared back out towards Gillies tries again this time the keeper gets her gloves firmly around the ball.

   Rachel Sherlow is winning the majority of ball fired up towards her area, keeping Stanley well marked. Her clearance is headed on through the centre by Lucy Hancock picking out Sheridan who tries to power her way on into the box, is tackled by Robyn Phillips. Colney Heath regain the ball inside their opponents half getting the better of the 50/50 balls 25 yards out one challenge sees the ball pop into the box favourably for Sheridan to latch onto right of the goal lifts her strike over the cross bar.

  Fay brings the ball out from the back for Cambridge City, Tomlinson goes on the move from left back is given the ball, plays it up the line for Stanley who pulls the Colney Heath defence with her on the right, a clever turn gives her room to lay the ball inside with Mosley calling for it a fair distance out doesn’t hesitate to shoot, hitting a low drive on target, straight at Hickey the keeper able to set herself and gather. Double change for Cambridge City with Bella Simmons and Rachel Pearce coming on to replace Fullicks and Penny. 

  Kelly Hancock and Ria Gray link up on the right side of the pitch a good give and go the pass forwards picking out Sheridan moving into space on the wing squares the cross along the face of the area, a vital interception from Phillips as May was in space behind her. More great defending from Sherlow the game continuing to be played at a high tempo, Mosley hooks the ball on up front trying to pick out Stanley, Sherlow keeping an eye on both the attacker and the falling ball as she runs back towards her box does well to see the ball over her shoulder and hook it clear. Colney Heath bring off Sheridan up top replacing her with Georgia Knight.

  The 1st half drawing to a close Cambridge City are starting to find a little more of the ball more possession inside the Colney Heath half. Going forwards Tomlinson delivers a high ball into the box, headed down fall straight to Stanley top of the area hits the ball on the volley drills the ball back in but wide of goal. Colney Heath captain, Sophie Joseph gets the ball into Knight moving away to the left, May makes a run through the middle, Knight looks to play the pass into her run, tracking her Phillips slides in timing her tackle wins the ball. 

  Mosley has been covering plenty of ground for Cambridge City in the 1st half moving out to the left gets the ball from Reed fires in the cross along the top of the Colney Heath area, gets past Sherlow this time but not Eustasia Randles behind her clearing the ball with Simmons trying to get in beyond her. Cambridge City have the impetuous lat in the half pushing players into the Colney Heath half a throw won deep on the left is put into Simmons feet, turns getting into the area, her shot charged down the ball finding Stanley 20 yards out right of the D a turn and hit fires the shot wide across the goal. 

Half-time Colney Heath Ladies 1-0 Cambridge City Ladies

  Colney Heath hold the advantage at half-time having worked hard for the lead, an energetic display have closed the ball down well and tried to turn the Cambridge City defence, May trying to get forwards to support Sheridan when she could. Have expanded alot of energy in doing so. The visitors have had the better of the chances without really testing Hickey in the Colney Heath goal, getting to grips with the pace of the game were showing signs late in the 1st half that they were starting to find more of the ball inside their opponents half. A 1-0 lead a narrow advantage.
   Colney Heath to kick-off the 2nd half, Fullicks is back on at the start for Cambridge City replacing Reed in the midfield. Play the ball up into the Cambridge City half Liv Abbott tackling to win the ball plays it up the line for Gillies taking the ball on, turns inside before squaring it into the middle, Simmons coming to meet it hits the shot on the spin sees her effort blocked by Randles inside the D. A bright start 2nd half from Cambridge City pressing Colney Heath inside their own half.
  Hickey scoops a shot up into her gloves as Simmons fires in from distance. Simmons involved again from a Cambridge City free kick won on the right inside the Colney Heath half, Abbott on the ball sends it long towards the far post. Simmons amongst the crowd gathered there gets her head on the ball turns the ball wide of goal. Pearce pressing the ball for Cambridge City gets hold of it 25 yards out picks out Simmons ahead of her moving to the right into the box, well marked by Sherlow can’t find any room for a shot as she tries to drive inside instead lays the ball across the box with Stanley free to the left of the D 1st time strike as the ball comes into her sees her shot rise over the bar.
  Fullicks on the drive with the ball through the middle sees her shot charged down, getting on the rebound Hickey parries the ball away, Colney Heath managing to get it long up the pitch into the Cambridge City half after an intense spell of pressure from the visitors. Colney Heath get themselves a free-kick wide on the left inside the Cambridge City half a good delivery from Lucy Hancock up into the area, it’s Simmons back defending who gets up to head the ball away. 
  Sherlow comes across to deal with Tomlinson on the left side as she bursts forwards from full-back to get on the end of a high ball down the line the ball put out for a corner kick. The corner on the left comes in near post put behind for another corner, a better delivery this time Colney Heath defend well heading the ball away from their box. With Cambridge City putting their back line under sustained pressure Colney Heath aren’t finding it as easy to find Knight up front in the 2nd half. 
  Making progress up the right Colney Heath manage to win themselves a corner. May comes to attack the ball near post, Cambridge City defend putting it out for another corner. Gray moving towards the ball plays it back to the taker, lifting the ball back up into the area Feasey knocks the ball down with her head towards the face of the area a chance for Joseph coming in on the ball to have a strike at goal sends the shot blazing wide. Feasey tackles well winning the ball in midfield playing it forwards into Knight taking it on through the centre she shoots the ball blocked by the Cambridge City defence spins left Kelly Hancock is forwards after it, Phillips is on her quickly to regain possession of the ball. Penny back on.
  A good spell from Colney Heath, very nearly double their lead as Joseph steals in to rob the Cambridge City defence of the ball racing on clear into the box right of goal drills a low shot in towards the near post, Mhunduru gets down sharply to make the save the ball squeezes under her body however and is trickling towards goal, Mhunduru scrambles to her feet inside her six yard box and makes a desperate lunge for the ball laying claim to it just before it can creep over the line.
   A fantastic ball from Tomlinson on the left on half way across the pitch picks out the run from Gillies having plenty of grass to run into getting her foot on the ball taking it into the box looks to turn inside get a better angle for a shot the touch a little heavy allows Randles to get back on her and clear it. 
  GOAL! The pressure Cambridge City have been applying in the opening 15 minutes of the 2nd half brings the equalising goal the clearance is fired up to halfway sent immediately back in towards the area by Fay, Simmons to the left side of goal the player closest to the ball isn’t distracted by the advancing keeper, gets her head on the bouncing ball sending it past Hickey and into the back of the net 1-1. 
  Both sides make a change Sheridan coming back on to go up top in place of Knight. Emma Littlewood coming on at right back for Abbott for Cambridge City. On the left attacking Joseph and May look to link up make something happen for Colney Heath, Joseph passes the ball on for May who looks to knock it on run in behind the Cambridge City defence, Phillips wins the race for the ball inside the box tapping it back into the keeper to clear.
   The visitors launch a rapid counter attack the ball put long down the right wing Gillies the willing runner gets after it turning the ball square into the top of the box Simmons onto it leaning back as she strikes the shot screws it away from goal. With 4 on the bench Cambridge City can keep freshening things up another double switch with Simmons and Pearce coming off, Reed and Jade Powell coming on. The visitors stretching Colney Heath now as they look to get themselves into the lead. Gillies having covered alot of ground on the right for Cambridge City comes off Stanley returning to the action with 15 minutes to go.
  GOAL! An immediate impact for the substitute with the ball over on the right Cambridge City attacking, the cross is flashed in along the six yard box, Hickey who has been so solid in goal doesn’t get to the ball this time as it evades her near post, Stanley is after it no one to get back to challenge her sees the ball over the line Cambridge City take the lead 1-2. 
 
Cambridge City Ladies Grace Stanley

Cambridge City Ladies
Grace Stanley

  Joseph gets the ball into Sheridan as the striker makes a move to get down the left channel turn into the area, Phillips stays with her and slides in to take the ball cleanly, sets up a counter attack the ball put into the middle Fullicks on to Stanley making a run in behind the Colney Heath defence into the area pulls her shot wide across the six yard box. Th Colney Heath players are starting to tire not a quick to close down a couple down with knocks. Cambridge City have a corner kick on the left the ball is played up the line with Tomlinson making a good run catching the Colney Heath player ahead of her cold runs in behind with the ball and take on the shot from the edge of the area flies over the bar.

  Wide left Penny has the ball at her feet travelling into the Colney Heath half, Stanley provides a run coming in from the right to get into the box Penny looks to flight the pass into the area for her, Allen nips in just ahead of her to win the ball. Into the last 10 minutes Colney Heath are pushing players on taking chances looking to find a reply the game is stretched now. Have a free kick on half-way the ball sent long Sheridan heads the ball on into the box, Fullicks is back helping defend the set-piece launches it clear of the area.

 

  GOAL! A couple more players down for Colney Heath late on into the final 5 minutes when play resumes the ball on half way the ball fed into Stanley left side in front of the area is perfect, taking it into her feet and spinning off her marker has the extra yard of pace to break clear looks to pull her shot back across goal, Hickey dives to her right gets something on the ball but not enough as it squirms under her and over the line for Stanley to score her 2nd of the game as Cambridge City lead 1-3. 

  One last free kick for Colney Heath to put the ball up into the box it’s cleared as the referee blows the final whistle

Full-time Colney Heath Ladies 1-3 Cambridge City Ladies

  Cambridge City come back from a goal down in the 1st half with a strong 2nd half performance to win the game 3-1 making it 2 wins from 2 in their opening league fixtures to see them go top of the fledgling ERWFL Division One table. A game of contrasting halves, Colney Heath came out of the blocks running, closing down their opponents and breaking forwards quickly taking an early lead. Had they been able to maintain that 2nd half could well have gotten something from the game.
  Took Cambridge City a little while to figure their opponents out wasn’t till late in the 1st half they started to apply some good pressure to their defence. Different story 2nd half by far the better side with the extra bodies on the bench used their substitutes to full advantage keeping legs fresh equalising then going on to win the game. An entertaining, fast paced game end to end for long spells.
  My thanks to both teams for their help with the teams this evening. Thanks too to Colney Heath for their hospitality and the plate of sandwiches that won’t survive for long. Best of luck to both sides for the rest of the season.