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Cup Final Special – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Norwich City Women

Sunday 4th May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

Sponsored by Harrod Sport

The finals coming thick and fast now, following on from a double bill from Cambridgeshire in midweek, the action comes from Norfolk this Sunday with a trip to Carrow Road to watch the final of the Norfolk County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport, a repeat of the final from 2 season’s ago with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies taking on Norwich City Women who are aiming to make it a hat-trick of trophy wins in the competition.

A busy Sunday at Carrow Road with Norfolk FA hosting their 3 senior county cup finals at the ground, the men’s junior and senior cup finals followed by the women’s cup final kicking off at 6:45pm. A fantastic opportunity for all sides involved to get to play at the ground of the leading football club in the county, Championship side, Norwich City FC. No doubt a busy day for the staff at Norfolk FA but as they so often do, lay on a great occasion.

Today’s prize

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies enjoying great success in the competition in their short history, reaching their first final in their debut season in, followed that with two more final appearances at Carrow Road, losing twice against Norwich and once against Wymondham Town Ladies. Knocked out by Norwich at the last 4 stage last season. Now make it 4 final appearances in 5 seasons as they return to Carrow Road. Something of a transitional period as Mulbarton look to introduced younger players to the 1st team squad playing in ERWFL Division One North.

  That along with injuries to key players plus a build up of fixtures due to their pitch not being available for a while seeing games called off saw Mulbarton near the wrong end of the table although with the cushion of games in hand get things going in the right direction to push on up the table and are on course for a 5th placed finish. Rebekah Lake remains one of the leading goal scorers in the county and once again has done the business for Mulbarton in front of goal despite a period out injured has 15 goals to her name from 19 appearances. Midfielder Alanta Griffith also amongst the goals this season netting 8.

  Norwich City Women looking to make it 3 county cup wins in a row and 8th overall since the competition became independent of Suffolk back in the 2010/11 season, winning the 1st 4 finals returned after a spell out of the competition to win it again in 2021 for the 5th time before making in back to back cup successes at Carrow Road. Fresh from playing at the ground too having faced QPF FC Women in their final FAWNL South East Division One winning 3-0 to secure runners-up spot for a 2nd successive season. Ultimately 2 points behind new champions Real Bedford Women frustrating to some degree the clubs ambitions seeking promotion to tier 3, with just one promotion spot up for grabs it isn’t easy, but remain focused bringing young talent through will be up their challenging again next campaign.

  Natasha Snelling named as the Norwich, Player of the Season winning the award a legend within the club, leading the way with the goals this season, with 15 from 28 matches. Holly Kennard joining the club last season from Sudbury has 11 goals this season with Shannon Shaw netting 7. Norwich were without influential player Ellie Smith for a good chunk of the season through injury and her goals have been sorely missed, back to full fitness now has 4 goals from the 17 she has featured in. Another county cup final and the retirement of another Norwich captain, Anna Larkins last time around, it’s the final game for new captain, Megan Todd as she announced her retirement from playing, establishing herself as a fan favourite in her six seasons with the club, influential on and off the field, despite suffering a few injury set backs along the way.

Road to the Final

 The higher league placed clubs entering the county cup in the latter rounds, Mulbarton beginning their run to the final in the 3rd Round of the competition drawn at home to fellow ERWFL Division One North side, King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Struggling for results at the bottom of the table Mulbarton came out strong to wrap a comprehensive win, Rebekah Lake firing home 4 goals. Victoria McNorton bagging herself a brace, their were goals to for Alanta Griffith, Lucy Lincoln and Tallie Chillystone in a 9-0 win.

 Onto the quarter finals Mulbarton were in the road taking on Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Bure Valley Women. Lake once again amongst the goals netting twice as did Griffith with another of the clubs new young players, Scarlett Derrett also on the scoresheet in a 5-1 victory. Norwich City Women entering the county cup at the quarter final stage beginning their defence of the trophy away to another Norfolk Division One side, Aylsham FC Women. The hosts taking a shock lead in the game before Norwich came back to equalise in the 21st minute through, Eloise Morran. Natasha Snelling, Lauren Hailes and a late first half strike from Lara Densley seeing Norwich 4-1, Shannon Shaw was to add 2 more goals in 2nd half stoppage time to see Norwich advance 6-1.

  The semi-finals of the being held on neutral ground on successive evenings a The FDC in Bowthorpe. First up Mulbarton who were paired against another ERWFL Division One North side and tough opponent, Thetford Town Ladies. Goalless at the break, Laura Hedtke was on hand on the follow up to turn the ball home off a Lake effort to put Mulbarton into the lead in the 0th minute. Thetford pushing Mulbarton all the way 1-0 going into the final 10 minutes before lake lifted the ball over the keeper to make it 2-0, Sophie Jermy adding a 3rd to see Mulbarton into another Carrow Road final. Norwich taking on Wroxham Women, having beaten the ERWFL Premier Division side in last season’s final. Wroxham keen to try and get to Carrow Road for a 2nd time proved tough to break down with a single goal winning the match coming from Isabelle Moore to put Norwich into a 3rd successive final.

Carrow Road

Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road Stadium the venue for this evening’s women’s cup final. As I said fantastic the players get to enjoy the experience of playing at such a prestigious ground. The South Stand open to supporters for the match, the food stalls open below, the media on the opposite I had the appetite for a pie so headed across the pitch to get one, very nice it was too. The pitch as you’d expect immaculate, holding up well despite two games already. The weather much cooler than the two finals in midweek the mini heatwave passing by still mild however a few showers around but not too bad over all.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Megan Gowing, Leah Brown, Holly Farrow, Lucy Lincoln, Megan Belsey, Laura Hedtke, Victoria McNorton, Alanta Griffith, Scarlett Derrett, Tallie Chilleystone & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Melissa Belsey, Luka Goodfield, Sophie Jermy, Molly Stevenson & Jo Hooper.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Norwich City Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill, Ellie Bishop, Izzy Moore, Ceri Flye, Hope Strauss, Eloise Morran (C), Sienna Booty, Lara Densley, Millie Daviss, Ellie Smith & Shannon Shaw. Subs – Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling, Freya Symonds, Lauren Tomlinson & Olivia Cook.

Norwich City Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Should the scores be level after 90 minutes the final goes straight to penalties.

This evening’s referee, Francesca Catchpole who follows in her mother Lorraine’s footsteps having refereed last season’s women’s cup final. A quality striker in her own right too, Mulbarton being one of the clubs she has featured for in the past.

Captain’s Eloise Morran and Rebekah Lake with this evening’s match officials

An injury blow for Mulbarton leading into this evenings final losing midfielder engine, Ellie Hunter to a nasty ligament injury away to Thetford in the league just 10 days ago. Goalkeeper, Megan Gowing also suffering a serious ankle injury in that game, but able to start this evening, have Jo Hooper on the bench as standby keeper should she be required. Norwich without a few too including Holly Kennard who scored twice on Sunday against QPR. Norwich still able to name a strong bench including Megan Todd, Natasha Snelling and Freya Symonds, Eloise Morran handed the captains armband starting this evenings final.

It’s Mulbarton attacking the River end to get the final underway wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. Norwich lined up opposite in their traditional yellow and green kit. The ball clipped long into the right channel as captain Rebekah Lake makes a run forwards, Ellie Bishop at left back heading the ball back upfield for Norwich. The ball send diagonally out to the right wing, Millie Daviss looking to get forwards, Holly Farrow closing her down for Mulbarton the ball out for a throw in.

Norwich looking to press the ball high early on have Mulbarton pushed back into their own box with Hope Struss at the back on the ball having plenty of options in front of her to range her pass to. Puts it forwards into the left flank for Bishop looking to bomb on, the ball skipping up off the grass wrong footing full back Leah Brown, Bishop escaping in behind turning to burst into the box, top corner, Laura Hedtke in to close her down block the ball before she can line up a shot.

Norwich getting forwards well the full backs pushing on the ball fed out to the right down the line for Daviss on the by line her cross cut back into the box, evading goalkeeper Megan Gowing as she comes near post, loose for a moment in front of an empty goal, Brown leaps in to hook it clear for Mulbarton. A nervous start from Mulbarton dropping deep inviting Norwich on, the ball clipped into box from Moore on the right into Ellie Smith at the near post back to goal looking to cushion the ball down, three Mulbarton defenders converge on her before she can do anything with it.

GOAL! Bishop with another marauding run down the left gets in behind cutting into the area closed down lays it back to the top of the area for Lara Densley inside the D, she takes on the 1st time strike the ball rifled in towards goal rising past the keeper, crashes down off the crossbar, might have crossed the line then very close either way as Gowing tried to get to it knocked down to the right post players rushing in to try and scramble it away Morran amongst the melee coming in to attack as Moore looks to keep the ball in play stabbing out a foot the ball squeezed past bodies over the line 0-1.

Captain, Eloise Morran opening the scoring for Norwich

Norwich taking the lead inside the opening 5 minutes. A blow for Mulbarton haven’t settled look nervous as Norwich build from halfway again, breaking down the right Ceri Flye from the back on for Daviss who wins her side a corner on the right. Clipped in high to the near post area, Hedtke getting a strong head on the ball to clear for Mulbarton.

Bishop lively out on the left for Norwich, linking up with Smith drives inside getting into the box, but is run off the ball as it runs out of play for a goal kick. Bishop looking to get in behind again wide left of a Strauss pass from the back, Mulbarton hold their line to catch her offside. Strauss and Flye with plenty of time on the ball at the back for Norwich usually up on half way, Flye right lays it on for Moore to clip a cross from the angle into the near post, Shannon Shaw looking to attack the header knocking the ball on wide across goal out beyond the far post.

Smith getting the ball into Densley coming left runs in on for Bishop on the wing takes the shot on from the angle, driven straight at the keeper, Gowing getting her gloves around the ball. Flye combining with Moore and Daviss on the right the cross lifted into the box, Hedtke winning the clearance for Mulbarton look to try and release Scarlett Derrett on the right wing, Strauss getting across her path to hold her up, no way through.

Laura Hedtke moving in to tackle Norwich’s Ellie Smith

Alanta Griffith central in to make the blocking tackle on Smith central comes away with the ball, her forward pass for Tallie Chilleystone making a left channel run cut out by Flye at the back for Norwich. Mulbarton pushed back struggling to get anything going forwards the ball often coming straight back, Bishop charging on down the left given the ball sending a diagonal ball into the box, Lucy Lincoln under it to head clear for Mulbarton.

Norwich remain on top Densley 30 yards out central picking out Flye coming on from the back going right sends in on down the line for Daviss she turns back up the line to lay it back to Shaw edge of the box right side fires her shot over the crossbar.

Norwich attacker, Shannon Shaw

 GOAL! Norwich merciless coming on with abandon get on down the right Daviss pushing down the line the ball at her feet turns it into the box, Smith bursting inside towards the penalty spot stealing in on the ball unmarked to turn it past the keeper and send Norwich into a 2 goal lead. 0-2.

Elle Smith sends Norwich into a 2 goal lead

Norwich 2 goals to the good inside the opening quarter hour looking strong. Bishop charging after the ball down the left flanks, Brown sliding in to make the tackle the pair colliding Bishop coming off the worst wasn’t a pleasant sound knees coming together or shin pads taking the brunt. Either way Francesca Catchpole awarding Norwich the free-kick. Bishop up on her feet okay for now. Densley over the set-piece outside the box takes on the strike, doesn’t get it right, turns in disgust before it’s even cleared the crossbar.

Norwich pushed up Smith outside the D bringing down a goal kick on for Sienna Booty top of the area, closed down by Lincoln, the loose ball running back to Smith right of the D goes to hit it, smashing the shot over the bar. Brown defending on Bishop as Strauss looks to release her in behind on the left. Bishop combining with Densley on the left for Norwich, swinging a teasing cross into the near post, Megan Belsey getting her head on the ball for Mulbarton, Hedtke attempting to bring it away, closed down by Smith.

Norwich quick to win the ball back everyone bar Strauss and Flye inside the Mulbarton half build through the middle Morran with Booty out to the right Shaw with Moore the former attempting to drop the ball in at the near post Daviss looking to steal in to attack it, Gowing getting down to smother the ball.

 GOAL! Midway through the first half Norwich break away down the left to add a 3rd goal, it’s Bishop racing in behind, pace taking the ball on towards the corner whipping an early cross into the top of the six yard box just beyond Shaw running in near side, but straight into Booty’s path running in beyond to meet the ball and lift it up into the roof of the net to score. 0-3.

Sienna Moore meeting Bishop’s cross to fire Norwich into a 3 goal lead

Norwich ruthless 3 goals up, Mulbarton in danger of getting overwhelmed in defence need to find a foot hold in the game somehow. Norwich get on down the left Smith over with Densley and Bishop the ball crossed into the near post Belsey defending for Mulbarton, Booty looking to get after the clearance as it drops inside the D, McNorton in on her to make the blocking tackle.

Francesca Catchpole refereeing this evenings final

 Play waved on as Smith driving on with the ball goes down inside the box the ball going away to the right lofted back in near post Shaw makes contact the ball dropping at the right post Gowing moving in to push it away, hooked clear Mulbarton can’t get any distance on it Norwich come straight back, Daviss in possession on the right, Farrow challenging the ball out for a throw. A high ball in to the top of the area, Booty looking to bring it down, her lay off cut out. 

Mulbarton’s Leah Brown

Everyone back behind the ball for Mulbarton, Hedtke on for Lake the ball lost in the middle 30 yards out Booty running in to strike the ball be effort put straight in at the keeper, Gowing getting hold of the ball. Hedtke defending another Norwich corner at the near post, Mulbarton attempt to break out on their right, Bishop snuffing the opportunity out for Norwich. Strauss into Smith taking the ball away to the right linking up with Daviss her cross lifted into the six yard box, Gowing under pressure from Shaw claiming the ball.

  Daviss running onto a diagonal ball clipped out to her advancing in the right cuts it back inside to the top of the box looking for Shaw, closed down by Lincoln, Booty snatching hold of the loose ball top of the D laying it off to Smith on her right her shot flies narrowly over Gowing’s crossbar. 

Rebekah Lake looknig to get forwards for Mulbarton

 Mulbarton have been under constant pressure at last they mount an attack the ball fired on up the left into Derrett gives it to Lake ahead of her racing on right channel, drives for the Norwich area, has Griffith making a run inside the box looking to come across the near post, Lake sending the ball into her path, Griffith bearing down on goal striking the ball in at goal rising, Quantrill called into action throwing up her glove to turn the ball wide for a corner kick!

  An opportunity for Mulbarton to bring a few players forwards for the resulting corner the ball fired in long through the six yard box met by Lincoln heading the ball goal wards knocked down, Quantrill sharp getting a glove down to the ball deflecting it away for a corner on the left. This delivery in high to the near post dealt with by Smith for Norwich. 

 Something for Mulbarton to feed on their fans too encouraging them on. Have a throw on the left knocked on into the area, Lake moving for it central, Bishop going with her getting the tackle in to get the ball away for Norwich. Bishop getting on down the left has support from Densley and Shaw her cross fired into the near post 6 yards out intercepted by Belsey the clearance won by Strauss sends the ball out to the right Moore getting hold of it getting inside the defence into the box to shoot from the angle Gowing getting down to make the save holds onto the ball. 

  Belsey forced to concede a corner as Norwich advance well on the right. The delivery going long, Brown looking to bring it away for Mulbarton. Bishop throwing herself into the challenge in an attempt to stop her stays down in clear discomfort looked to have jarred her knee. Morran putting the ball out of play so she can receive treatment the physio indicating that she needs to come off with 40 minutes played.

 Is a straight swap at left back with Lauren Tomlinson coming on. Takes over where Bishop left off looking to take the ball on down the flank into the corner, Derrett tracking back with Brown to tackle slow things down. Tomlinson winning a corner in Norwich’s next attack. Out on the left Densley swinging the ball high into the near post, Gowing getting her fists up pushing it away to the right, Densley gathering it sends n inside for Booty 20 yards out to dink one over the top for Smith looking to get in right of goal, Derrett going with her getting something on the ball both closing in on the keeper can’t risk a back pass, takes the ball beyond Gowing across goal before hooking it away.

Millie Daviss attacking on the right for Norwich

  Gowing with another good claim for Mulbarton inside her six yard box as Moore sends Daviss’ layoff into the box. Griffith latching onto the ball getting in the move right sending it on for Derrett, plays it on for lake in attack pulling off Strauss in an attempt to get into the box, Flye though running around on the cover getting to the pass first as the ball enters the box. 

  Tomlinson races away down the left with the ball up to the by-line sending a vicious cross back across the top of the six yard box just beyond Densley and Booty who had burst on to try and get forwards, Chilleystone bringing it under control beyond the pair clearing for Mulbarton. Moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half. Lake getting onto the ball on the drive central for Mulbarton, checks her run before lifting it on for Derrett 25 yards out to the right of the area, shifts the ball between her feet looking to get on into the area, Morran coming in to close her down winning the tackle for Norwich.

Norwich’s Ceri Flye

  Smith coming left with the ball for Norwich fed on down the wing for Tomlinson to take on whips another dangerous ball into the six yard box swerving through the air, Gowing doing well dropping forwards to see the ball into her gloves, pops out for a split 2nd with Shaw lurking but Gowing is quick to react snatching it back into her midriff. 

 Norwich coming no right side Daviss looking to send Smith racing clear into the box right of goal, the flag going up straight away as Gowing goes down to smother the ball, Smith’s sliding in colliding with the keeper, a painful one for Gowing up gingerly but looks to be alright to carry on. One last attack for Norwich, Tomlinson on the left 25 yards out squared inside for Shaw looks to help it on into the top of the area for Daviss, Lincoln up win her winning the header to get the ball away.

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-3 Norwich City Women

  Norwich head into the tunnel holding a comfortable lead at the break, on the front foot right from the off, Mulbarton a little nervous at the start giving them a little too much respect dropping off into their box inviting them on Norwich able to get players on at will overload the flanks, winning it back easily with the outlet ball not on. Racing into a 3 goal lead looking like they might overwhelm Mulbarton, their opponents rallied fighting hard inside their area to try and stem the tide broke away to create a very good opportunity of their own giving them a much needed shot of confidence. Alot to do 2nd half if they are to get back into the game and you feel Norwich can move up a gear if they want.

 Bishop giving a good fitness check at the break as her injury is assessed, Tomlinson back out wearing a bib so looks as if they will be swapping 2nd half. Mulbarton too making changes at the start of the 2nd half bring off, Brown, McNorton and Megan Belsey, send on her twin sister Melissa along with Sophie Jermy and Luka Goodfield. Norwich to get the 2nd half underway, rolled into Morran goes left with the diagonal ball for Bishop, puts it on for Densley ahead of her, Belsey forcing her back put inside for Flye pushing up right on for Daviss on the right wing her cross swept into across the top of the area intercepted by Lincoln.

  Norwich up and around the Mulbarton area winning a free-kick the the left of the box 30 yards out, the ball chipped in over the top, Shaw looknig to steal in on it stoops to head the ball goal wards sends it straight at the keeper. Mulbarton in to defend the ball high up the pitch, Goodfield’s tackle dropping to Jermy 25 yards out central, her strike charged down by Strauss. 

 Norwich still looking to get players on down the wings, Moore on the right overlapping Daviss her cross turned in behind at the near post. Shaw bringing the ball down for Norwich sending the pass right for Daviss her cross deep into the area falling for Densley left of goal can’t bring it down into her feet to get a shot away before it is snatched away by the Mulbarton defence. Away to the left soon back with Norwich the low cross driven in central, Griffith bringing it away for Mulbarton.

  Lake turning with the ball inside the Norwich half gets on the move going into the left channel, holding the ball up as Chilleystone races on to support the ball inside reaching her she looks to pick out Griffith to her right, Moore cutting pass out for Norwich. Norwich getting their crosses all wrong at the start of the 2nd half, Shaw’s the 4th put behind the Mulbarton goal. 

GOAL! The game a little more open 2nd half Griffith looknig to get closer to Lake up front the ball fed into lake 25 yards out sees it into her feet turns to push away left though the middle before cutting the pass back out to the right into Griffiths outside the box closing in on the area shapes to shoot catching it sweetly to send it arrowing past Quantrill into top corner! 1-3!

Alanta Griffith with superb strike for Mulbarton

 The Mulbarton fans erupt in celebration as Griffith races over to them in celebration, the first goal Norwich have conceded in a county cup final at Carrow Road. Mulbarton pulling a goal back in the 50th minute. Norwich press down the right Daviss putting the ball in across the top of the area, Morran running onto the ball looking to hit it, Hedtke moving in to charge the shot down, Morran snatching at the rebound pulling it wide of the left post.

  Norwich’s centre backs still afforded time on the ball able to carry it on Flye driving on right side into towards the top corner of the area firing a dangerous ball in towards the far post dropping Densley racing in trying to meet it on the volley can’t quite get there. Mulbarton working hard in defence, Norwich coming forwards Daviss linking up with Moore in the right. Densley bringing the ball in from the left across the Mulbarton D, sends it into Booty inside the box who storms back across the area looking for an opening, none on shifts in into Shaw out on the left who takes on the shot from the angle, driven in low towards goal, Gowing right behind it down low to save at her near post.

  Norwich lively getting the ball on pressing and probing Smith moving inside to play the ball into Flye looking to get into the box right side, Chilleystone closing her down for Mulbarton, the ball deflected central for Smith to latch onto inside the D, lifts her shot over the bar. Daviss racing clear on the right flashes a pacy ball across the face of the Mulbarton goal, Shaw slipping as she goes for it not making contact. Mulbarton look to break forwards the ball from Griffiths into Lake, Strauss moving in to close her down sending the ball out for a throw.   

 GOAL!  Norwich hit Mulbarton on the counter winning the ball on the throw right side Daviss put away into space on halfway racing forwards drives all the way into the box bearing down on goal, Gowing stays back looking to set herself no one can reach Daviss as she shoots sending the ball in across the keeper to find the opposite corner 1-4.

Millie Daviss breaking away to score for Norwich

 Norwich restoring their 3 goal lead on the hour. Norwich making a change switching captains with Morran coming off handing the armband to Megan Todd as she runs onto the pitch to make her final appearance for Norwich. The goal’s getting both sets of fans going 2nd half in good voice a great attendance too with 956 in the stand. Flye breaks down the right for Norwich looking to exchange passes with Moore the return pass however sees the central defender flagged offside.

  Gowing pulling off a fantastic double save as Norwich thrust forwards Todd moving central from the left into Smith who lays it across to Daviss right of goal with Moore going beyond her the ball into her feet shoots on the angle, Gowing throwing out her left glove to turn the low shot away to the opposite side, Shaw looking to get onto the end of it striking the ball back in across goal, the keeper throwing out a foot to deflect the ball behind.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Megan Gowing

The corner from Densley on the left half cleared at the near post, Densley looking to fire it back in on the angle, Gowing across to the near post takes the ball down cleanly. Norwich ringing the changes midway through the 2nd half bringing Tomlinson back on along with Freya Symonds, Olivia Cook and Natasha Snelling, coming off are, Daviss, Moore, Booty and Densley. Lincoln penalised for obstruction as she impedes Shaw’s attempt to get into the box left of the D. Snelling over the free-kick with an early chance to test the keeper, gets it on target but lacking the pace or height to trouble Gowing.

  Chilleystone getting the ball into Griffith inside the Norwich half she looks to try and play Lake in behind as she burst away into the right channel, the ball launched forwards, Quantrill however able to chase out to the top of the area see the ball safely into her gloves before Lake can pounce. Mulbarton making a triple switch bringing off Chilleystone, Farrow and Hedtke on come Brown, McNorton and Molly Stevenson. 

 Norwich building on the left the ball rolled inside to Todd, 25 yards out encouraged to shoot, sends her shot in Gowing right behind it to save. The game more open as Mulbarton are prepared to get players forwards to try and support Lake up top Norwich alive to the quick counter however Tomlinson left side on for Symonds the cross driven in low to the near post, Gowing dropping forwards onto the ball. 

 GOAL! Norwich up on the left winning a throw, have Tomlinson on now, known for her long throws level with the top of the area launches in into the box dropping for Bishop to hit on the volley as she turns sends it arrowing into the top corner 1-5.

Emily Bishop volleying home Norwich’s 5th

  Norwich extending their lead with 15 minutes of regular time left to play. Press on the left forcing Mulbarton into conceding a corner. Symonds to angle the ball into the near post dealt with by Goodfield behind for a 2nd corner. Cleared again at the near post dropping for Smith top of the area, sees two attempts charged down before the ball is cleared away to the right for a throw.

 Todd putting the ball into Snelling out to Symonds wide left her into Shaw at the near post attempts to lay it on for Snelling closing in, Jermy getting in the way to clear for Mulbarton. Lincoln cutting out a Smith pass inside the D to Snelling the ball behind for a corner kick, taken short on the left the cross whipped into the six yard box attacked but the flag is up. Norwich getting around the box everyone is looking to tee up Todd for a strike on goal Bishop into Symonds central on for Todd shifts it out to Tomlinson pushing on down the left back into Symonds corner of the area, put inside for Todd she pokes it on for Smith pulling in behind at the left post her low strike trapped by Gowing as she dives forwards.

GOAL! Norwich getting the ball into Cook out wide on the right, Has Snelling running in central as she looks to play the ball into the box her cross long angling high across the keeper falling beyond her into the far corner add another goal 1-6. 

Olivia Cook scoring Norwich’s 6th

  Mulbarton bring Megan Belsey back on replacing Lincoln in defence with less than 10 minutes left to play, Chilleystone back on to for Derrett. Make a keeper change too with Gowing coming off and Jo Hooper coming on to make her final appearance for Mulbarton. Flye on the move with the ball for Norwich right side flashed into the top of the box for Snelling she attempts to thread Smith in between the defence in on goal but the flag is up against her immediately.

 The ball given to Todd outside the D, closed down squeezes it out to Symonds pulling left her low cross into the box claimed by Hooper as she goes to ground at her near post. Griffiths finding the energy to get the ball on through the middle for Lake in attack looks to drive out left into the channel get past Flye into the box, the defender stays on her however to put in the challenge nullify the attack. 

 Smith sliding it at the near post sends the ball wide as Bishop breaking down the left sends the ball into the box. Smith with another opportunity moments later as Norwich come right, Cooks cross flashed into the six yard box, Smith can’t get a touch as she closes down the keeper. Mulbarton keep going trying to get an opportunity going forwards, Griffith is dead on her feet though as she gets the ball into Lake who gives her the return pass 30 yards out, tries to pick out Chilleystone to her right, Tomlinson tracking back cutting the pass out. 

  Bishop coming down the right wing cuts the ball back into the top of the area for Cook right of the D, angles the ball into the far post Shaw going in to head it can’t get a touch. Shaw from distance with an ambitious attempt to lob the ball over the keeper seeing the ball land on the roof of the net. Into stoppage time just 2 mins of what has been an intense 2nd half. 

 Brown defending to see the ball out for a corner kick for Mulbarton, swung into the top of the area from the right, Griffith defending for Mulbarton put back out wide, Norwich win it back the diagonal ball curled back into the box Todd racing in six yards out, Hooper snatching it off her feet. 

 GOAL! Norwich driving on till the end a burst into the area from the left no sure who was brought down but either way, Catchpole points to the spot, Penalty! Straight away the call is it has to be Todd to take it, initially walks away though, more to calm herself down than anything else, never in doubt as she places the ball on the spot and scores her final Norwich goal wrong footing the keeper to place it into the left of the goal 1-7. 

Megan Todd scoring from the penalty spot.

 More or less the final action of the game as the whistle blows up and Norwich win the cup for the 3rd successive season. Celebrating in front of their fans.

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 1-7 Norwich City Women

  Norwich starting strong never let off the pace throughout taking an early lead able to get players on at will getting into a 3 goal lead before Mulbarton launched a meaningful attack coming close themselves, fighting hard in defence given some encouragement for the 2nd half. Alanta Griffith with a superb strike to pull a goal back early in the 2nd half before Millie Daviss broke away to restore Norwich’s 3 goal cushion. Emily Bishop and Olivia Cook extending the lead before Todd from the penalty spot put the icing on the cake. Mulbarton showing a little too much respect to Norwich early on in were danger of getting overwhelmed recovered well and when they took the game to Norwich showed what they were capable of.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match two clear contenders with a number of other performances of note. Firstly for Mulbarton the whole team battled hard in defence. Lucy Lincoln with a number of vital wins inside the box. Laura Hedtke too helping out in defence won her fair share of tackles. Alanta Griffith covered the ground getting back to help in defence and trying to get on to support Lake in attack, scoring a goal at Carrow Road that’ll live long in the memory. Megan Gowing with some crucial saves. For Norwich get forwards at will at time Ellie Smith all over the place coming for the ball driving forwards and linking up play. Eloise Morran opening the scoring got hold of the ball kept Norwich on the front foot. Emily Bishop down the left got forwards well pushing in behind creating numerous chances and getting on the score sheet pushed it close but the award goes to Millie Daviss won it on the night and had a fantastic game on the right, constantly available got on well with the ball and broke away to score a fantastic goal. 

Millie Daviss – winning the Player of the Match award

Norwich City Women, 2024/25 Norfolk Women’s Cup winners

Congratulations to Norwich City Women on winning the Norfolk Women’s Cup for a 3rd successive season.

  No doubt a long day for the staff at Norfolk FA with 3 finals completed, my thanks to all for their assistance and allowing me to cover the game as always much appreciated. Many congratulations to Megan Todd on her career been a pleasure to watch her play. Jo Hooper too a legend in her own right with some great memories to take from the game. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Thetford Town Ladies v Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Wednesday 23rd April

ERWFL Division One North

Heading down the A1065 this Wednesday evening for a spot of midweek football action from ERWFL Division One North, to Mundford Road to watch Thetford Town Ladies versus Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies.

The football season rapidly drawing to a close with just a handful of matches left in the ERWFL, final positions to jostle for, Mulbarton moving above Thetford at the weekend up to 6th in the Division One North table with 4 league games left to play, Thetford with just 2 more to go, having beaten Mulbarton earlier in the season in the reverse fixture, the pair meeting just a fortnight ago in the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup, Mulbarton securing a 3-0 win in the 2nd half to make it to their 4th county cup final in 5 season’s.

Thetford Town Ladies near to completing their 2nd season playing in the ERWFL, looking to build on a 6th placed finish in their debut season in regional, have established themselves in the league without finding the consistency they would have liked a mixed bag of results a run of 4 straight defeats putting a dent in what looked a good push for a top 5 finish. A strong squad with a healthy bland of experience and youth haven’t always had the full compliment to pick from, Mollie O’Callaghan coming to the club this season the top scorer with 7 goals so far, Alice Collins captaining the side now, next highest scorer with 6 goals. Megan Haynes has 5 to her name while, Melissa Boulton, Olivia Dunne and Caitlin Skipper all have 4 each.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies joining the ERWFL along side Thetford last season having won the Norfolk Women’s Division One title the previous two seasons. Finishing 3rd in the table in their 1st season in regional football, have had a more difficult 2nd season, Seeing several games called off earlier in the season, players not getting the run of matches to aid both fitness and development, the 1st team bringing in several younger player to the squad this season, a mixed bag of results early in the season, injuries playing a part too, have turned things around in recent weeks losing just 1 of their last 8 league games to climb away from the bottom end of the table and move past Thetford into 5th position having been awarded a home win with the recent withdrawal of Whittlesey Athletic Ladies from the league. Rebekah Lake as ever the leading scorer for Mulbarton, out injured for a spell earlier in the campaign still has 14 goals from her 17 appearances. Midfielder, Alanta Griffith with 6 goals to her name. 

Thetford Town FC’s, Mundford Road Stadium the venue for this evenings match, the clubhouse open leading into the ground, the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. Out into the stadium itself a covered seated stand over the changing rooms beside, with standing viewing all round the grass pitch, slightly sloped. A sunny end to the day the sun setting behind one end of the ground, no rain forecast.

Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Keileigh Dixon, Sausha Levy-Twomey, Mollie O’Callaghan, Fran Peeling, Hannah Claughton, Shannon Chandler, Olivia Dunne, Alice Collins (C), Hannah Rogers, Megan Haynes & Caitlin Skipper. Subs – Zoe Klimcke, Ella Swift, Dayna Howard & Niamh Underhill.

Thetford Town Ladies

 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Meg Gowing, Holly Farrow, Leah Brown, Lucy Lincoln, Melissa Belsey, Victoria McNorton, Laura Hedtke, Ellie Hunter, Alanta Griffith, Sophie Jermy & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Laura Goodfield, Tallie Chillystone, Scarlett Derrett, Izzy Noakes & Molly Stevenson.

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Rebekah Lake and Alice Collins with this evenings referee Michael Clark

 Both sides with a long trip to Bedfordshire on Sunday with contrasting results, Thetford travelling with just 10, battled hard but came home empty handed losing 2-0 to AFC Dunstable, while Mulbarton ran in 6 goals without reply at Wootton Blue Cross Lionesses. Both sides nevertheless with good sized squads for this evenings game, Mulbarton choosing to have the low sun at their backs with Thetford kicking off the first half wearing their claret coloured kit with blue trim on the shirts. Mulbarton in their away colours wearing aquamarine coloured shirts with grey shorts and socks. The ball played back into defence, Mollie O’Callaghan sending a probing ball into the left channel for Caitlin Skipper up front to attack, Melissa Belsey cutting it out to clear at the back for Mulbarton the ball helped on in midfield lifted into the left channel for Mulbarton captain, Rebekah Lake, Fran Peeling intercepts in defence for the hosts.

  Mulbarton quick to close the ball down central Laura Hedtke with a wild lash at the ball, sending a shot flying over the Thetford goal from range. Thetford goalkeeper, Keileigh Dixon retrieving the ball, announcing it has picked up a puncture and is going flat, referee Michael Clark calling for a replacement, play continues. Thetford moving in to close the ball down central Olivia Dunne with captain, Alice Collins the ball sent forwards, Mulbarton goalkeeper Megan Gowing quickly out of her area to reach the ball first as Skipper races in behind the defence.

  Play turned around Mulbarton seeing the ball into Alanta Griffith in the midfield controls and turns to clip a pass out into the left flank with Sophie Jermy on the move, looks to have times her run perfectly to get away in behind, the Thetford defence just holding their line however the flag going up against her. Thetford pushing up as a team, Mulbarton winning the ball back outside there area looking to set up a quick counter the ball from Hedtke fed on for Griffith, looks to lift it on for Lake up top, Sausha Levy-Twomey getting her head on the bouncing ball to clear for Thetford.

 Thetford pressing on the left Hannah Claughton getting up to win the ball back on for Hannah Rogers taking it on plays a pacy diagonal ball into the top of the area for Skipper to attack, Belsey closing her down timing her tackle to get hold of the ball top of her area. Rolled into Victoria McNorton in midfield for Mulbarton looks immediately for the run from Lake up front the ball clipped on through the middle, just a little too much on it as Dixon comes out to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball.

Thetford goalkeeper, Keileigh Dixon

   A tentative start to the game both sides testing out the other with probing balls, Thetford pushing up as a unit, Peeling cutting out an attempted ball from Griffith central out to Jermy left side. Frustration for Mulbarton again as Ellie Hunter nips in to regain possession off of a Thetford throw opening up her body to slide the ball on for Jermy on the move left side, as again the flag goes up against her.

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter

  Skipper lively in attack for Thetford making some good runs into the channels, the diagonal ball comes into her on the right side, taking it on, Lucy Lincoln moving in on her to tackle for Mulbarton. Thetford pressing the ball in the final 3rd Skipper with Megan Haynes out on the right, Collins getting forwards to offer support, Hunter attempting to get to her as the pass from Haynes comes into her 20 yards out, the pair coming together, Hunter looking to have gone down awkwardly, in some discomfort play stopped not looking good can’t continue walking gingerly as she is helped off the pitch Scarlett Derrett coming on.

 The resulting free-kick played on by Lincoln into the middle Griffith looking to turn the ball out to Jermy on the left, Peeling cutting the pass out for Thetford. Claughton bringing the ball on left side for Thetford fed forwards into Dunne looking to get forwards, Leah Brown in to close her down putting the ball out for a throw in. Thetford battling for possession putting in the tackles in the middle, Haynes light with a good turn on the ball to send the ball racing up the channel for Skipper to chase down, Belsey coming across to make the challenge inside the ball turning the ball behind for a corner kick.

  The delivery from the right flashed on through the six yard box to the far post before being struck back over the crossbar. Lively Thetford pressing Mulbarton looking to turn play around quickly the host defence having to be alert to the ball being helped on through the middle, Griffith trying to find Lake in attack, Levy-Twomey getting her head on the ball for Thetford to keep the ball inside the opposition half. 

Thetford’s Mollie O’Callaghan

 

 O’Callaghan stepping forwards in defence for Thetford playing a high line to charge the ball down the rebound coming to Collins central lifts it into the box with Haynes breaking forwards on the right, Gowing composed keeping her eye on the bouncing ball to see it safely into her gloves. The game a little heated at times Thetford working hard to disrupt Mulbarton get hold of the ball, Haynes in particular providing a good outlet on the right, Holly Farrow getting across to close her down for Mulbarton as she looks to drive on off off a cross-field ball from Dunne. 

  Skipper releasing Haynes out on the right to take the ball on in behind whips an inviting cross into the box, Gowing laying claim to the ball. Play drawn over the the left as Thetford fight to get the ball forwards, Haynes free in space to the right the diagonal pass coming into her path surges forwards up the wing cutting a cross back into the area, just behind Skipper racing in central runs onto Collins beyond outside the box, meeting it first time sends her strike crashing over off the crossbar!

Mulbarton’s Holly Farrow in to tackle Thetford’s Megan Haynes

 

  Mulbarton work the ball on well through the middle McNorton into Griffith linking up with Jermy the ball lifted on sees Lake burst in behind Thetford, looks to be away timing her perfectly, but no, the flag is up against her. Griffith getting the ball into her feet for Mulbarton on the turn lays it into the path of Jermy looking to break clear in behind wide left taking the ball on clips a cross into the top of the area, Lake racing onto the ball turns it goal wards the ball rolling agonisingly wide of the left post.

  Griffith trying her luck from range for the visitors the ball held onto by Dixon back in the Thetford goal. Mulbarton looking to up things Griffith looking to push on further forwards coming left strong on the ball attempting to lift it over the defence for Jermy, Chandler getting her head to the ball to cut out the ball for Thetford. 

 Thetford attack through the middle, Collins on with Haynes the ball rolled onto Skipper left corner of the area held up by Belsey, laid back to Collins to run onto the ball 20 yards out, strikes the ball wide of the near post. Thetford getting a corner out on the left the ball sent into the top of the area, the Mulbarton defence rushing out making a series of blocks to prevent a shot, attempt to break out themselves left side Chandler in to close the ball down keep Thetford in the front foot.

  Hedtke playing the ball up to Griffith back to goal on halfway, turns well to lift it over the top play Lake in behind racing clear, Dixon though comes racing out of her area getting there in the nick of time to clear for Thetford. Peeling busy in the Thetford defence coming across on the cover as Mulbarton build on the right to challenge Lake turn the ball out for a throw in. Skipper full of pace up top for Thetford looking to get onto the end of a Rogers pass, strikes the ball wide of the left post from all of 25 yards out. Lively competitive through the middle, McNorton on for Griffith, Lake looking to moving inside from the right, Peeling intercepting the through ball for Thetford.

GOAL! Thetford bringing the ball on through the middle with pace, Skipper taking it on left of the D, bearing down on the box, Belsey stepping in to make the blocking tackle the ball spinning across the top of the area out to the right, Haynes latching onto the ball whipping a cross back into the mix, Collins running onto the ball to meet it 10 yards out smashing the ball past the keeper and on into the back of the net to open the scoring 1-0.

Thetford captain, Alice Collins firing Thetford into the lead

Thetford in front with almost half an hour played in the first half, Mulbarton look for a quick response Griffith on for Hedtke linking up with Derrett through the middle, Levy-Twoney getting the challenge in to win the ball back for Thetford. Derrett inside for Lake coming in field from the right 25 yards out sends it on for Griffith to turn onto the shot, does get a clean connection as she falls back the ball in low easily gathered by the keeper.

  Chandler under pressure at the back for Jermy as she attacks left side does well to get the ball back, then Jermy comes off worst as she and Collins go in on a 50/50 ball outside the area. Thetford getting the ball on up the right Skipper over to combine passes with Haynes who wins her side a corner. Curled in across the six yard back cleared back out to the corner taker on the right, curled into the near post Hedtke getting her foot on the ball to launch clear for Mulbarton.

  Thetford’s defence pushed up at times so they have to be alert to the counter attack the ball put on through the middle with lake never still looking to make a run off a defender nip in behind, Levy-Twomey with another vital interception to head the ball back for the hosts. Peeling breaking up a Mulbarton attack sending the ball on up the right channel for Rogers, Farrow lunging in to halt her advance for Mulbarton.

  Mulbarton play the ball on through the middle McNorton working well with Griffith pushing the ball into her moving forwards to take on the return pass laying it out to Derrett wide right she takes the shot on from the angle low driving into the near post, Dixon down at her near post to gather the ball into her gloves.

  Mulbarton push on down their right Derrett charging to the by-line her cross deflected behind by Claughton. Lifted into the near side, Peeling getting her head on the ball to send behind for another corner. Clipped in near side again knocked down to the top of the area, Griffith onto the ball looks to hold up turn to release a shot, charged down by Chandler, comes back to Griffith already falling tries to get hold off it but can’t keep it down over for a goal kick.

  Mulbarton making a double change with McNorton and Jermy coming off, on come Luka Goodfield and Izzy Noakes coming on. O’Callaghan in defence for Thetford stepping in to win the ball, comes to Haynes central feeds it across to Skipper left of the D, moves forwards, Belsey in to close her down, the ball rebounding back to Collins to hit from range, strikes the ball over the crossbar.

  Dixon needing to race out of her box to win the clearance as Lake threatens to out pace the defence as Mulbarton turn play around in the middle. Mulbarton pushing players on late in the first half lake to Griffith right of the D, looks to lift a deft ball back into the box, Peeling cutting it out for Thetford. 

 GOAL! Mulbarton looking to get the ball on rapidly through the middle, Griffith racing forwards breaking in behind the defence in the clear, no flag raised, Dixon comes racing out to try and close her down but can’t get there as Griffith lobs the ball over the keeper to see it bounce on through to the goal beyond to level up the scores 1-1.

Alanta Griffith sending the ball over the advancing keeper to equalise for Mulbarton

 Mulbarton with their tails up equalising late in the first half press the ball through the middle Noakes on for Griffith strong on the ball looks for Lake up top, Peeling getting to the ball first to clear for Thetford. Collins fouling Derrett, Mulbarton with the free-kick the ball put into Lake back to goal top of the area, given no room to turn by O’Callaghan, Thetford look to counter the ball lifted on for Skipper in the left channel, Belsey cutting it out for the visitors.

 Claughton closing down Lake as the striker looks to shift the ball down the line on the right. Griffith taking the ball on from Goodfield, stabbed forwards, O’Callaghan getting her foot in to win the ball off Lake, looks to send it on for Skipper up top pace running with the ball bearing down on the ball, Belsey getting back at her easing her off the ball.

Half-time Thetford Town Ladies 1-1 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

 The half-time whistle blows the sides all square at the break, Thetford working hard for their lead getting in amongst Mulbarton looking to disrupt play and get it forwards quickly Skipper running at the defence creating chances, captain Alice Collins firing the hosts into the lead on the half hour. Mulbarton frustrated not finding a rhythm, losing Hunter to injury, some decisions going against them fought back well to level the scores up late in the half. All set for the 2nd half, Thetford looking good value for their lead, no doubt frustrated to concede so late in the half.

No changes at the break for either side with the floodlights taking full effect, it’s Mulbarton to get the 2nd half underway the ball fed up the left wing with Lake pressing the attack, Chandler across to deal with the ball forced out for a throw in the corner, Mulbarton getting bodies up around the ball forcing a corner kick. The delivery swept in low to the near post, Thetford clearing the danger.

  Thetford look to break away down the left the ball rolled on for Skipper, Brown cutting it out for Mulbarton sending in infield into Griffith’s feet plays it forwards over the defence into the box with Lake bursting into the area left of the D, Dixon coming out to claim the ball catching it on the bounce. The hosts building on the left, Claughton carrying the ball forwards cuts inside to play the ball in central, Skipper looking to take it on Lincoln sliding in to defend for Mulbarton.

  O’Callaghan going down for Thetford picking up an ankle knock, a pause in play but needs to come of, Zoe Klimcke being readied to come on the defender going over to the right side with Chandler switching to an attacking role left side. A quite start to the 2nd half with both sides cancelling each other out in the middle, defences first to any attempted through balls. Claughton surging forwards with the ball on the left sending a diagonal ball into Skipper outside the box looks to spin of Belsey break into the box the defender getting a challenge in the ball deflected to the right, Skipper lining up a strike, Lincoln going in to block the ball deflecting off the defender for a corner kick.

  Into the near post area the ball attacked, Dunne turning the ball wide of the upright. Thetford lively working hard to press the ball, Collins out to Haynes right side breaks forwards with the ball before attempting to slid it on for Skipper coming across for the pass, Farrow getting hold of the ball for Mulbarton. Lake constantly on the prowl looking to steal into space between the Thetford defence, Griffith looking for those runs trying to put her through on goal, Peeling sticking out a leg this time to prevent the opportunity. Dixon clearing the ball for Thetford at the back as Mulbarton attempt to play Lake in behind, launched up field, Skipper looking to make a nuisance of herself, Lincoln, then Brown putting in blocking tackles before the ball runs out for a goal kick.

  GOAL!  Thetford quick to get bodies up around the area pressing the ball of the goal kick, Haynes and Chandler with Skipper outside the area, the ball popping about as Collins races on from midfield to latch onto the ball top of the D and send a strike rifling past the keeper into the back of the net. 2-1.

Alice Collins running onto the ball to fire Thetford back into the lead

 Thetford retaking the lead 11 minutes into the 2nd half. Mulbarton look to get on up the right Lake over with Noakes, Claughton winning the ball back for Thetford breaking on down the left firing it forwards into Chandler on the wing squares the cross into Skipper in attack her touch a little to strong, allowing Goodfield to nip in take possession back for the visitors. Having retaken the lead, Thetford are in need of settling things down, play a little frantic attacks breaking down.

 Griffith holding onto the ball for Mulbarton coming left sends it on for Lake who fires it across the area into Noakes, Peeling moving in to put in the block the ball rebounding out to the right, Derrett crossing the ball in along the face of the Thetford goal Lake running in beyond the far post stretching out a leg can’t quite get there to turn the ball back over the line. Hedtke coming off for Mulbarton, on comes Tallie Chillystone.

Thetford defender, Fran Peeling

 Mulbarton pushing Griffith on more now coming left as they look to find a reply, Klimcke closing her down. Skipper full of running in attack for Thetford, keeping the defence occupied, Brown cutting out a pass left side as she tries to knock it beyond her. Griffith through the middle for Mulbarton on for Noakes, who in turn attempts to put Lake through on goal, Levy-Twomey getting her leg out to intercept the ball.

  20 minutes played in the 2nd half Thetford working hard to disrupt Mulbarton’s play close the ball down, Lake bringing the ball down off of a throw high on the right, corner of the angle, turns into the strike smashing her effort across goal wide past the far post. Chillystone needing to come off for Mulbarton, Molly Stevenson introduced to the game. Skipper bringing the ball down turning to send it to Chandler on the move down the left, Brown going with her blocking her cross to turn the ball behind for a corner kick.

Mulbarton’s Leah Brown

  The delivery from the corner played on to the far post knocked back across goal, Mulbarton scrambling it away to the top of the area, Skipper central getting hold of it putting her foot through the ball, smashes her shot wide of the left post.   

 GOAL! Mulbarton working the ball up the left wing win a free-kick just outside the box. Griffith over the set-piece asking to be hit in towards the far post, instead the midfielder takes on the shot, hitting the ball sweetly sending in up and over the keeper to find the back of the net to level things up for the 2nd time in the match. 2-2. Griffith never takes free-kicks apparently, on this evidence she shouldn’t be afraid to step up more often.

  20 minutes to gone Mulbarton back level. Thetford restart the game the ball clipped long to Skipper pulling wide left, plays a high ball in across the top of the Mulbarton area with Haynes coming on from the right looknig to meet it on the volley 25 yards out, blasts her strike wide of the right post. Thetford winning the ball central Collins with Dunne the ball fed on for Chandler left, Brown sliding in to play the ball out for a throw.

 Gowing needs to break out of her area quickly to close down Skipper as she is played through central by Dunne, the keeper with the block to see the ball deflected away from danger. Griffith attempts to play the threaded ball on for Lake up top as she pulls left, Peeling cutting the pass out hooking the ball clear. Mulbarton bringing players up for a corner on the left chipped in near post Thetford clear.

 GOAL! The break on Thetford sending the ball long into the right channel, Skipper racing after it knocking the ball on into the area wide of goal, Gowing comes racing out to dive forwards onto the ball, gets her gloves around the ball as she and Skipper come together, hurting her ankle, the ball is loose as Skipper is quickly back on her feet, an advantage played, close to the line hasn’t much of an angle to shoot from but strikes the ball, getting a good curl on it to see it creep inside the near post even as Brown racing back in attempts to clear it 3-2!

Caitlin Skipper puts Thetford 3-2 up

 Thetford retaking the lead in somewhat controversial circumstances, Mulbarton incensed claiming their keeper had hold of the ball, but the decision stands, even as Gowing is down receiving lengthy treatment on her damaged ankle, cannot continue and with no substitute goalkeeper on the bench, it’s midfielder Hedtke back on to don the gloves. Mulbarton break forwards from the restart Griffith powering forwards left side on the ball striking a shot in towards goal narrowly over the crossbar. Thetford counter Dunne central sending the ball into Chandler left side clips in back in central for Skipper making the run up top, Hedtke out though to gather the ball top of the area.

GOAL! Thetford win the ball back in the final third players pressing up to the box, Collins central lifting the ball into Chandler inside the area left of goal, Mulbarton claiming offside as she puts her foot through the ball, to smash the ball back across goal, Hedtke throwing herself down in an attempt to stop it gets her fingertips to it but not enough to prevent it finding the bottom corner to see Thetford double their lead 4-2.

Shannon Chandler through on goal to fire in Thetford’s 4th

  Thetford with their tails up late in the game gaining a two goal cushion, Mulbarton aggrieved seeing two decisions going against them leading to the goals. Thetford keen to hammer home the advantage though Haynes running onto the ball right side flashing a cross into the box wide past the far post. Belsey coming off for Mulbarton with McNorton back on. Dunne pushing up into the box left side with Chandler as Brown goes to put the block in, the ball running past her into Dunne’s feet rushing her strike sends the ball up over the bar.

  The clock rapidly ticking down Thetford keeping their energy levels up pressing the ball, lose possession on the right as Farrow moves in to close the ball down carries it up the wing sending a cross into the top of the area for Lake bearing down on the box, Dixon rushing out to close her down making the blocking save the ball angling away to her right cleared by Levy-Twomey. 

Victoria McNorton

 Levy-Twomey in again to defend as Griffiths puts the ball into Noakes central 25 yards out. Mulbarton pushing players on looking to force an opening Thetford ready to counter Claughton left side launching in forwards for Dunne making a left channel run, Brown out to meet her lunging in to prevent her skipping in behind. With Mulbarton pushed up in the closing seconds of the contest Collins wins the ball outside her box lifts it on for Skipper up top Dunne looking to cover the ground get up with her, McNorton getting her tackle in to stop Skipper getting the pass into her.

Full time Thetford Town Ladies 4-2 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

  The final whistle blows and Thetford celebrate getting back to winning ways and doing a league double over Mulbarton to move back above them into 5th place in the Division One North table. Worked hard for the three points pressing the ball as a unit defending high at times to keep the ball up the pitch the defence needing to remain alert throughout. Took the lead twice only to be pegged back, before getting their noses in front for a 3rd time, going on to add a 4th. Mulbarton frustrated creating some good chances never really got going to put their stamp on the game far from happy with the 3rd goal. Thetford kept their energy levels up throughout and with one game left to play will at home to Biggleswade will aim to finish on a high.

 Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Time to chose this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, and although their are plenty of performances to mention, there is one clear winners. Firstly for Mulbarton, Alanta Griffith was strong throughout getting hold of the ball and making several positive forwards runs scoring both the visitors goals. Leah Brown at the back with a number of vital tackles to stop Thetford getting in behind. Mel Belsey had her work cut out with Caitlin Skipper but won more than her fair share of challenges. For Thetford the aforementioned Skipper was a handful all game, running into the channels a ready outlet for the midfield, her pace and movement causing problems getting on the scoresheet. The Thetford defence as a unit strong, Fran Peeling, Mollie O’Callaghan and Sausha Levy-Twomey all making vital interceptions and tackles. Shannon Chandler and Hannah Claughton bringing the on up the flanks. Olivia Dunne winning the ball in the middle of the park. The award goes to the captain, Alice Collins got about the pitch well winning the ball and linking up with the attack, marshalling her team along with scoring twice and setting up the 4th goal.

 An enjoyable evening of ERWFL football, always competitive my thanks to both teams for their help with the teams, I know, I know most of the players but it always pays to check. Hoping the injuries to goalkeeper Megan Gowing and midfield engine Ellie Hunter aren’t as serious as first appeared and both with be ok for the upcoming county cup final.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Wroxham FC Women

Sunday 28th Jan

ERWFL League Cup

Back at it after a much needed weeks break, heading over to Mulberry Park this afternoon to watch Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies take on fellow Norfolk side Wroxham FC Women in the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup.

 A strong line up reaching the last 8 of this season’s competition with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies one of two Division One sides to progress this far, with the other being Division One South leaders Watford Ladies Development away to the Premier Division’s runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies. defending cup holders Luton Town Ladies are away to St Albans City Women next week. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking on Stevenage FC Women in the remaining quarter final tie. A different format to the League Cup this season with all the clubs entering at the 1st Round stage, previously the Premier Division sides entered in the 3rd Round.

 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies moving up into regional football after back to back titles in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Building a strong women’s section in their relative short history bringing in a high level of talent from Norfolk. Have made a good start to life in tier 6, whilst suffering the frustration of a lack of league fixtures for various reasons, that had seen them a low as 2nd bottom purely through lack of game time, but with just 13 points separating top to bottom a 3-2 at home to Fakenham last weekend push Mulbarton up to 5th and with plenty of game in hand on the sides above are more than capable of putting pressure on the top two whom they have yet to face in the league.

 Rebekah Lake amongst the best strikers playing in the county has been top of the scoring charts for Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies since their beginning and is out in front again this season finding the back of the net for 14 goals from 9 appearances. Sam Walker another leading goal scorer in the county joining Mulbarton from Long Stratton last season has 5 so far from 8 played. A bye for the club in the 1st Round of the League Cup drawn at home to Division one South side Billericay Town Women Development, Lake on target for a brace with Walker also scoring in a 3-0 victory. Away to another Division One South side in the 3rd Round taking on Lawford Ladies, goals from lake, Lucy Kean, Atlanta Griffith, Laura Hedtke and Charlotte Groves sealing a 5-2 win to send Mulbarton into the last 8.

 Wroxham FC Women currently 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division table, amongst a cluster of sides in the top 5 separated by just two points challenging for what looks like runners-up spot with runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies yet to drop a point so far this season. Adam Race taking on the managerial role this season having moved from Long Stratton, inheriting a strong squad with a great blend of youth and experience have added a number to their ranks with the most recent signings being talented young goalkeeper Bryony Williams and experienced defender Mary Croft both dual signed from Norwich City Women.

 Hannah Fuller (previously Waters) can easily go toe to toe as one of the best strikers in the county. Both are a nightmare to defend against finding great positions to run in behind and take on players. Leading the goal scoring charts for her club once again netting 20 goals so far from 15 matches . Lara Densley enjoying a great season for Wroxham on the scoresheet for 8 goals from 16 played. Luci Middleton and captain Becky Russell both with 7 goals. Like Mulbarton a bye for Wroxham in the opening round, an away trip to Essex to play newly promoted Southend United Ladies in the 2nd Round, Holly Connell striking twice with goals from Hannah Fuller, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley and Keela Olive securing a 6-1 win. A home tie in the 3rd Round against fellow Norfolk side and Division One North leader, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. Fuller on target to bag herself a hat-trick with Ella Gambell and Russell getting a goal apiece in a 5-1 victory.

 Mulberry Park the venue for todays game the weather much improved after the stormy conditions at the beginning of the week. Warm and bright, with no wind. The pitch seeing a lot of action, the ground still damp heavy in places. A small seated stand opposite the dugouts with the tee hut open serving hot drinks and snacks. The sun low behind the stands moved from my opposite flank to view the game so I had it at my back to help with the camera. 

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Jody Todd, Lauren Bumstead, Rachel Jermy, Megan Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Leah Brown, Lanta Griffith, Sam Walker, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Melissa Belsey, Laura Hedtke, Poppy Loveland & Olivia Smith.

Wroxham FC Women

 Wroxham FC Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson, Albany Hodgson, Becky Russell (C), Jennifer Drummie, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Luci Middleton & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Ella Gambell, Rachel Cossey, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Sumer Copland.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Mulbarton to get this afternoon’s quarter final underway kicking off the first half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Wroxham lined up opposite in their away colours aquamarine coloured shirts with black across the top of the chest and shoulders, black shorts and socks. The ball played back into the middle, Wroxham break forwards quickly to pressure the ball out on the left the ball won pushed back towards captain Becky Russell outside the box clips a high ball in towards goal dropping down cannons off the bar back into play the Mulbarton defence launching it clear.

Wroxham captain, Becky Russell

  Wroxham setting the tempo early doors getting at the Mulbarton back line keeping the hosts pinned in the final 3rd Chelsea Clarke combining with Lara Densley on the left flank on for Luci Middleton wide her cross blocked behind for a corner kick. Curled into the area defended headed back out to the left the 2nd ball in deflected away for a throw in. Wroxham threatening left side Russell with Densley forwards for Middleton to attack running into the box, tackled the ball prodded out of play for another corner.

Lara Densley crossing the ball for Wroxham

   Ellie Hunter looking to take the ball on through the middle spark Mulbarton into life played on for captain Rebekah Lake up to, Albany Hodgson stepping in to intercept the pass. Wroxham come right Jennifer Drummie off a throw in forwards for Lauren Bullard to travel the the by-line before squaring a ball into the six yard box, cut out and cleared by Megan Belsey at the back for Mulbarton. All Wroxham winning the ball inside the Mulbarton half push players into the final third the ball rolled into Densley top of the D, struck on the half volley, dipping in front of goalkeeper Jody Todd does well to get her palms behind it make the blocking save. 

Mulbarton yet to get a toe hold in the Wroxham half yet a meaningful attack registered, Drummie in to win the ball in the middle, Clarke left and Leah Newcombe on the right getting forwards to push the hosts back. The ball sent long on the left in behind for Fuller to attack  from the left channel a strong run, Lauren Bumstead and Belsey going with her as she powers her way into the box the ball won well and cleared. 

Lauren Bumstead clears the ball for Mulbarton

 Wroxham dictating the play able to push their defence up play the ball across the back, Lake up top alone with a lot to do if her teammates can get the ball into her. Newcombe taking the ball on up the right forwards for Bullard looking to turn in behind, Hunter tracking back well getting to the ball to take it clear for a throw. 

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter

  Hodgson plays the pass along the ground into Densley left side, lines up a strike from range her shot flashing wide of the far post. The visitors forwards on the left Clarke on for Densley into Fuller left of the D, gets the ball across the top of the area for Middleton central ready to shoot, Hunter gets back on her in the nick of time to win the ball the opportunity gone. Sam Walker goes into the book for an off the ball offence with Drummie. 

Wroxham attacker, Luci Middleton

  Walker with a ell timed challenge a few moment later to halt Densley’s progress as she looks to make ground on the left. Belsey out to block Densley as she lines up another strike 25 yards out top of the D. Walker find Leah Brown on the right as the winger looks to get away down the line pushing inside, Densley closing her down stops the cross, Brown winning Mulbarton their first corner of the game. Taken short, Mulbarton dally on the ball too long as Wroxham rush out to close it down threaten to counter, Belsey standing her ground on halfway to make sure that doesn’t happen. 

  Midway through the first half, Wroxham dictating play creating chances around the box, Mulbarton yet to have in theirs working hard at the back, getting the ball out and keeping it their proving difficult. Middleton seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out to the left of the D, turns well to hit the shot her effort flashing over the crossbar. Drummie out to Newcombe right on for Bullard, Rachel Jermy stretching to win the ball clears for Mulbarton. 

Mulbarton defender, Rachel Jermy.

  Russell sending the pass on for Bullard wide right squares it across the top of the area, Drummie running onto the ball her shot charged down by Belsey. Newcombe taking the ball in behind for Wroxham on the right, Sophie Jermy running back to challenge on the by-line clearing for the hosts falls straight to Russell positioned right of the area 25 yards out, looks to thread a diagonal ball on for Middleton spinning off the defence into the area central, Bumstead getting back at her to lung in take the ball away from her. 

  Sophie Jermy pushed back needing to slow down Newcombe help Rachel Jermy out with Bullard looking to run in behind her. Walker on for Hunter through the middle, Lake pulling out wide on the left into space brings the ball down whipping a cross into the area, Molly Ryan cutting in of the right channel looking to attack it the ball though cleared by Hodgson. 

  Mulbarton finding a little momentum in the middle as Lanta Griffith, Hunter and Sophie Jermy combine getting forwards on the left, Jermy sending the ball on for Hunter bursting into the left channel the ball crossed in cleared back out to Griffith, lifted back into the box, Tigi Robson heading clear for Wroxham out to the right of the box, Ryan looking to latch onto it, Clarke in to block her shot. 

Sophie Jermy

  Clarke on from the left with Densley played into Fuller left of the area turns inside bursting into the six yard box putting it in across goal, Todd their first to snatch the ball down, vital with Middleton lurking ready to turn it home. Clarke getting up on the left receiving the lay off from Fuller left of the D, shots her shot blocked defecting harmlessly through to the keeper. Wroxham upping the ante pressing forwards as a pack the ball played into Fuller up top left side flicks the ball into the path of Middleton putting her clear right side to attack the goal, shoots, Todd down smartly gloving the ball away for a corner kick. 

Luci Middleton played in on goal

  The ball dropped into the box scrambled away by Hunter for Mulbarton. Sophie Jermy alert on the left taking a quick throw looking to set Griffiths away, Newcombe getting back at her to tackle see the ball out for a throw. Clarke putting Fuller through in behind to run into the box, and score won’t count however the flag early against her as Mulbarton’s defence hold a good line. Fuller hungry for a goal, so too Clarke as the ball comes back to her on the left, as soon as it arrives you can see she’s going to take the shot on hit on the angle a vicious ball in low dipping late on Todd does well to block with her legs as she falls forwards doesn’t get hold of it as Fuller rushes in on the follow up, strikes the ball looking to get it over the keeper, Todd getting enough of her body in the way to deflect it over the bar!

Hannah Fuller in to follow up Clarke’s strike seeing her shot deflect over of the keeper

  Bryony Williams has largely been a spectator in goal for Wroxham in the first half but need to remain alert pushing up from the back Mulbarton winning it back launch a pass long for Lake to try and chase down, Williams needing to come hurtling out of her area to clear the ball. Wroxham attack right Bullard sending it on for Newcombe on the overlap to the by-line back to Bullard turning into the area right lifts a cross into the mix, Hunter trapping the ball top of the six yard box, but not away Fuller taking a swing at it as it rolls forwards doesn’t get a clear hit scuffed as Megan Belsey gets the block in and taken away to the left for a corner kick.

Wroxham full back Leah Newcombe

Lauren Bullard preparing to cross

Megan Belsey into block Hannah Fuller’s attempted strike

  Mulbarton making a change bringing off Ryan with Poppy Loveland coming on. Russell seeing the ball onto her feet for Wroxham outside the D, puts her foot through the shot rising in on goal, Todd with the spectacular save gloving the ball up over the bar for the corner kick.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Jody Todd

  Swung into the area knocked down into the mix, cleared by Bumstead, the counter on as Sophie Jermy takes it on for Griffiths who bombs forwards into the left channel making for the box is clipped as she looks to drive into the area, goes down play brought back for the free-kick, Bullard goes into the referees book. Loveland on the set-piece gets it past the Wroxham wall in towards goal, Williams though right behind seeing the ball into her mid-riff as she drops forwards. 

Lanta Griffith driving on for Mulbarton

 Into first half stoppage time Wroxham still prepared to push player forwards Drummie winning in in the middle on for Russell, playing the ball forwards as Rachel Jermy and Walker collide allowing a gap for Fuller to turn and run into looking to get onto it as it races towards the box, Todd sharp diving forwards onto the ball in the nick of time Fuller leaping up letting out a cry of frustration. 

a coming together at the back sees Hannah Fuller break after the ball

Jody Todd getting to the ball before Fuller can strike

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-0 Wroxham FC Women

  As one sided a goalless first half as you will ever see, Wroxham will be wondering how they are not in front have pushed hard for the opening goal, seeing one disallowed and the woodwork struck. Mulbarton goalkeeper Jody Todd called into action for a number of saves. The hosts have had to work hard at the back to keep Wroxham at bay right from the off a gutsy performance under pressure. Rebekah Lake up top on her own getting little to fed on. Wroxham pushing up will getting their full backs advanced to keep Mulbarton pushed back looking to move the ball about the park. Still with nothing in the goal scored column all to play for 2nd half.

  Changes for both sides at the break, Mulbarton staying out on the pitch making two changes bringing on Laura Hedtke and Melissa Belsey for Bumstead and Griffith. Ella Gambell coming on for Wroxham on the right replacing Bullard. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway, played into Russell looks to clip the ball out to the left for Densley, Brown can see it safely out of play for Mulbarton. 

  Gambell into the attack early on racing down the right into the corner winning a free-kick. Looped into the near post headed on across goal headed goal wards the ball claimed by Todd in goal. Russell gathering the ball into hr feet on the right tracking inside for Wroxham fires it into Densley running in central to curl a shot from 20 yards out wide of the right post.

Wroxham midfielder, Jennifer Drummie

  Wroxham looking to start of the 2nd half where they left off the first. Middleton drifting right seeing her cross cut out turned behind for a corner. The corner curled into the middle of the area by Densley headed back out to the right inside the box snatched hold of by Gambell strikes a shot on the angle saved by Todd knocked down into the ground and cleared by the defence. 

  Hedtke sending the ball on for Lake pulling out to the left for Mulbarton wide has limited options as she looks to cross the ball into the area, the ball intercepted by Hodgson. Drummie on through the middle, Middleton and Fuller running in ahead of her towards the area plays it on for Middleton central as Fuller peels away to the right of goal, Middleton lays the ball into her Megan Belsey getting across to lunge in to put in the block as she goes to pull the trigger the ball spinning away for a corner kick.

Rebekah Lake looking to cross the ball.

  The corner count rising Densley putting so useful balls ball in from that side, in central cleared back to Gambell right this time sends her shot behind. Mulbarton making another change bringing on Olivia Smith to replace Walker. Brown storming forwards with the ball on the left for Mulbarton, sending it inside to Lake 20 yards out, Clarke in to challenge her before she can look to spin in behind to shoot. 

Leah Brown coming forwards with the ball for Mulbarton

 Clarke running into space on the left found by Russell striking in a shot on the angle held by Todd. Mulbarton’s back line remain pinned back, Megan Belsey and Rachel Jermy both making a blocking tackle on Middleton and Fuller respectfully. Gambell adding to Wroxham’s threat going forwards with some driving runs on the right, sees a cross snuffed out by Rachel Jermy as he breaks for the by-line.

Ella Gambell attacking for Wroxham

  Clarke adding to the threat going forwards from the back on the left for Wroxham, bursting forwards plays a one two with Fuller as she continues her run past her into a central position to shoot from 20 yards out her effort fired straight at Todd who claims the ball. 

Chelsea Clarke getting forwards on the left for Wroxham

 Wroxham make their 2nd change bringing Rachel Cossey on to replace Middleton. Densley tracking in from the left appears to be bundled over, the visitors appealing for the fouls as the ball runs through to Gambell 25 yards out right side, Rachel Jermy rushing out to meet her win the challenge for Mulbarton. Wroxham win a corner on the right swung in near post Todd comes out into the mix to try and get hold of it doesn’t as the ball is turned behind for a 2nd corner.

  GOAL! The corner deliveries from the right have been dangerous and this one brings the opening goal the ball fired in with pace into the six yard box met by Robson making her 50th appearance for Wroxham gets her head under the ball powering it into the back of the net 0-1.

Wroxham celebrate scoring the opening goal

Tigi Robson scoring on her 50th appearance for the club

  The deadlock finally broken in the 65th minute. Play resumes Ryan and Griffith back on for Mulbarton the ball played up the left sent into the area, cleared. Robson down needing treatment. Wroxham suddenly down to 10 as Clarke finds herself sent to the sin bin the game had gotten a little testy. The visitors adjusting to the player disadvantage by making a change bringing of Densley, with Ellie Overton coming on the fill in at the back. 

Wroxham’s Albany Hodgson

   Gives Melissa Belsey less to worry about on her flank the full back getting forwards as Hedtke picks her out with the pass up the pitch lifts a cross into the box knocked clear by Hodgson. Mulbarton a goal down with a player advantage need to come out attack, have to remain wary of Wroxham’s attack still lively Gambell on the drive central closed down well by Megan Belsey. The ball swept out to Fuller pulling right side of the box lay the cross into the D with Drummie on the move Ryan going with her getting enough of a challenge in to slow her down force the ball left as Megan Belsey comes to clear the ball.

Melissa Belsey

  Wroxham competing well with one less player keeping the ball away from their exposed left flank. Russell on the left of the box heading the ball down into Fuller central turns to run out to the right, Smith stretching to stop her cross. Robson going down under a heavy challenge picking up a knock Wroxham on the attack Drummie clipped out to Fuller right her cross chipped into the box cleared by Megan Belsey.

  Griffith getting hold of the ball driving forwards through the middle for Mulbarton aiming to thread the ball through the Wroxham defence for Lake to hunt down, Williams though ready racing out to the top of her area to dive onto the ball.

Bryony Williams winning the race to claim the ball

  Mulbarton pressing on trying to find a break through to get them back on level terms Hedtke on for Lake to attack, Williams again going down to claim it spills the ball however no one is close enough to capitalise as the ball is made safe. Clarke’s time up is allowed back onto the pitch eager to resume, Overton pushed on ahead of her. Hunter and Gambell battling for the ball come together a bit of afters quickly dispelled, Hunter hurt in need of treatment can’t continue, Bumstead coming back on.

   Fuller with a drive on the right smashing the ball against the crossbar from the angle. Robson is down feeling the effects of her earlier knock, needs to come off with Newcombe returning to the game. The clock ticking down Wroxham continue to dominate the attack, yet while the score remains 1 nil Mulbarton only need one moment to turn the game on its head, looking unlikely though with Fuller driving on with the ball into the area, Melissa Belsey and Bumstead combining to defend see the ball out for a corner. 

 Gambell from the right cutting inside lays the ball in central, Loveland cutting it out for Mulbarton playing it forwards the left, Clarke latching hold of it coming straight back at them. The final whistle signalling the end of the game Wroxham clinch the win to send them through to the last 4 of this season’s ERWFL League Cup

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-1 Wroxham FC Women

  Tigi Robson’s 65th header proving to be the difference between the sides as Wroxham find a goal in the 2nd half to win the match. Doesn’t tell the whole story, Wroxham no doubt the dominant side going forwards right from the opening whistle creating chances getting players forwards to keep Mulbarton penned back limited their opportunities going forwards in the process. An intriguing yet tense contest. Mulbarton on the back foot never really found the spark to get ignited going forwards that left Lake isolated in attack, no doubt part of Wroxham’s game plan. Credit to the defence however who played well making some vital challenges under a lot of pressure. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as more often than not a difficult one and one I don’t thankfully have to make on the final whistle, even if one or two players are in prime position in my thought the notes help immensely. Some great and battling performances out there. Firstly for Mulbarton, Ellie Hunter  really covered the ground in the middle getting back to help the defence and winning the ball doing her all to get her side going forwards. Credit to the defence for a hard fought display particularly Megan Belsey for some vital blocks and tackles. Goalkeeper Jody Todd too her saves and positioning undoubtedly keeping the score down. For Wroxham was a strong attacking performance  without necessarily getting the rewards. Both full backs got forwards well Leah Newcombe on the right, Chelsea Clarke strong on the left with some great runs and passing, getting into good shooting positions. Hannah Fuller up top would have scored a hat-trick on another day made some great runs pulling into the channels setting up others. Luci Middleton deeper with some fantastic runs with and without the ball to create chances. Tigi Robson scoring the winning goal in her 50th appearance for the club. As is often the case when one side is pushing the other back it’s how the ball is won back in the middle that often keeps the pressure on and for that today’s award goes to Jennifer Drummie a strong performance in the middle to win the ball and keep Wroxham pressing forwards getting into some good positions to have herself a shot too.

  Well rested after a week off, didn’t know how much I needed it. A great game to come back to. Always a good contest between the sides who might well end up facing each other in the County Cup should they win there respective quarter finals. My thanks to both for there help with the teams today and to catch up with a few footballing friends.

by Darren Gilham