A handful of fixtures played across Norfolk this weekend with just the four in total across 3 competitions. Two games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Thetford Town Ladies promoted to the league this season making a tough start showing signs of improvement in their last few matches earning their first league point 3 weeks ago, took fellow promoted side Long Stratton Women all the way to penalties in the League Cup last weekend before eventually being knocked out. Long Stratton once again their opponents in the league themselves making a solid start in Division One solid in mid-table. Long Stratton with the bare 11, Charlie Head with her 5th goal of the season and Summer Whiting getting her first for the club. It was Thetford though who were celebrating at the final whistle clinching their 1st league win of the season winning 4-2 with both Melissa Boulton and Laura Martins scoring a brace.
In the other game played in Division One the points were shared between Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves and Fakenham Town Ladies both sides only able to field the bare 11. The pair contesting a goalless draw. The point seeing Fakenham’s recent run continue now unbeaten in 4 matches takes them up into the top half of the Division One table for the first time since regaining promotion to the league.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
One match played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this weekend top versus bottom with leaders Stalham Town Ladies hosting Bulldogs Ladies. The bare 11 for the visiting side. Stalham strong from the off scoring plenty of goals to win heavily and move 4 points clear at the top, 7-0 up at half-time added a further 8 in the 2nd period to win 15-0. Top scorer Amber Mayhew moving into double figures on target for a brace. Not the top scorers at the weekend Andrea McCombe opening her account with 4 goals. A hat-trick too for Emma Gillespie. Darcey Burdett another scoring her first goals netting a brace along with first goals of the season for Sian Clarke and Carla Beane. A couple of own goals too.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
One game two played in the 2nd Round of the Ladies League Cup in Norfolk at the weekend, Thorpe United Ladies top of Division One making a 100% winning start away to fellow league side Taverham United Ladies. Captain Rebekah Lake in form in front of goal once again this season for Thorpe smashed home 7 goals at the weekend to move onto 19 goals for the season. Joanne Hooper netting a brace with the final score reaching double figures 10-0 to put Thorpe through the the quarter finals. Sophie Jermy with the other goal.
7 goals at the weekend for Thorpe United’s Rebekah Lake
An early start to day this Sunday with a trip east along the A47 to Plantation Park for this season’s Norfolk Women’s & Girls Football League Finals Day. Three games in total, the action kicking off at 10am with the League Plate Final this season being contested by Sprowston Athletic Ladies and Beccles Town Ladies.
The Ladies League Plate competition introduced in the 2015/16 season sees the sides knocked out of the early rounds in the League Cup go on to contest the Plate, both of today’s opponents running foul of Taverham Women United knocked out of the Cup, Taverham’s young guns making a blistering start to playing in women’s football for the first time winning the Division Two title losing just one game along the way.
A third successive finals day appearance for Sprowston this Sunday in their various guises over recent season’s. Reaching the in Plate final the 2016/17 losing to King’s Lynn Town Ladies. As FC Sprowston Ladies last season reached the final of the League Cup itself whilst winning the Division Two title, were taking on Bungay Town Ladies both sides entering the game looking for a league and cup double, a single goal scored in the 2nd half seeing Bungay win the trophy. Entering Division One, the club joining forces with Sprowston Athletic FC. Didn’t get off to a good start playing in the higher league losing their opening 3 games but since then have picked up some notable results and rising up the table an encouraging finish as they secured a top half position in the league.
Promoted with FC Sprowston Ladies last season were Beccles Town Ladies making their debut in women’s football, pushing their opponents all the way in the title race. Life in Division One has been tough however finishing bottom have struggled with an awful injury list and long spells without a game, despite all that, the club continues to have a positive outlook. Is well supported by Beccles Town FC. Reaching their first ever final the club making the trip down to Wembley Stadium yesterday to watch the FA Women’s Cup, where they saw local girl, Lauren Hemp score for Manchester City Women as they beat West Ham United Women 3-0.
Road to the Final
A bye for Beccles in the 1st Round of the Plate competition. Sprowston were away to Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies a 6-1 victory seeing them comfortably through to the quarter finals.
Another away trip for Sprowston in the last 8 of the Plate competition once more taking on Division Two opposition, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies leading 2-0 at half-time Sprowston went on to win the game 5-1 with Melissa Belsey scoring a hat-trick. Beccles Town Ladies were at home taking on Bulldogs Ladies bottom of Division Two with Beccles leading heavily the game was abandoned due to a serious injury to Bulldogs captain Emma Johnson the game to be played again, Beccles comfortable winning 9-0 to book their spot in the last 4.
An all Division One line-up in the semi-finals, Sprowston at home taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves, a brace form Katie Fray plus a goal for Olivia Leggett seeing them through the the final with a 3-1 win. Beccles were away playing Aylsham Ladies in the semi-finals a goal in each half from captain Megan Vincent seeing Beccles into their first final.
Plantation Park the home of Norwich United FC once again the venue for the NWGFL Finals Day, home to Norwich City Ladies too and they were down to play their final game of the season at home against Billericay Town Ladies, that game switched to Fakenham Town FC’s Clipbush Park. The pitch at Plantation Park offers plenty of with a surprisingly good condition at the end of the season, not had the weather on it however a mild and very dry winter good grass coverage if anything perhaps a little hard and in need of some moisture. Dark clouds overhead heavy downpours a possibility hopefully not anything like Norfolk had the day before. Chilly the sun trying to make an appearance. The bar open with hot food and drinks on sale.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies starting XI – Tyla Cole, Hannah Taylor (C), Sophie Rose, Keri Boorman, Olivia Leggett, Katie Fray, Nicole Read, Rebecca Kirby, Rachel Bussey, Kate Morris & Laura Jenkins. Subs – Megan Belsey, Melissa Belsey & Monica Cass.
Beccles Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Pearce, Emily Coe, Elisha Maher, Megan Vincent (C), Poppy Wilson, Vicky Ottey, Fran Heaney, Lucy Robbens, Bethan Owen, Darcie Keiley & Eva Evans. Subs – Chelsea Caplin, Marie Carter & Poppy Fenn.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Beccles to get the Plate final underway kicking off 1st half wearing white shirts with black shorts and socks. Sprowston wearing orange coloured shirts with black shorts and socks. Beccles play the ball on right for Bethan Owen to chase support from Elisha Maher coming on from fullback, Rachel Bussey tackling for Sprowston the ball out for a throw in. A bright start from Beccles have Sprowston penned back in their half the ball worked across the top of the area Fran Heaney out to Darcie Keiley left she gets a throw taken quickly Heaney turning to put a cross into the box from 25 yards out safely gathered by Sprowston goalkeeper Tyla Cole.
Rebecca Kirby winning the tackle for Sprowston.
Sprowston get up the left a throw high up the pitch, on into the area Laura Jenkins near side heading it on to the far post Kate Morris closing in, Beccles captain Megan Vincent in to win the ball put it behind for the 1st corner of the game. The ball played in by Rebecca Kirby long across the six yard box a touch far post deflecting in goalwards Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce down making a reactive save the ball pushed out of the area a shot driven back in a nick deflecting it wide a corner signalled. Pearce coming for it near post misses it over her is blocked and cleared by the defender on the post.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies, Laura Jenkins
Katie Fray getting on the ball in the middle bringing it on for Sprowston sees Morris making a run away into the right channel picks her out Morris travelling on into the area, Vincent getting back at her to make the challenge the ball away for a throw. Eva Evans in attack for Beccles running onto the ball right comes inside looking to get into the area is pulled down a free-kick awarded Lucy Robbens to play the ball into the area the delivery cleared headed back out to the right Robbens taking a touch lining up a shot the ball charged down.
Katie Fray attacking for Sprowston Athletic Ladies
Fray breaking up a Beccles counter attack as captain Hannah Taylor gets forwards on the right her cross intercepted. Owen dribbling with the ball right wing cuts inside and shoots for Beccles the effort tame easily gathered by Cole. Players up for Sprowston as they win a throw high up on the right the ball put on for Morris getting her foot wrapped around it on the byline sends a cross back into the box, Keri Boorman attacking it from 8 yards out under challenge lifts a shot in across goal the rising ball hitting the crossbar.
Vincent with another timely interception sticking a leg out to prevent Morris running clear from Fray’s through ball. Sprowston starting to see more of the ball getting players forwards Taylor high on the right winning a corner. The ball from Kirby in towards the near post defended the clearance straight to Sprowston’s Nicole Read positioned inside the D controls before playing it to Fray to her right the midfielder brought down right on the edge of the box a free-kick awarded. Sophie Rose on it gets her shot past the wall but not Pearce beyond the ball straight into her midriff.
Vicky Ottey through the middle driving on with the ball has Evans ahead of her the striker playing it out to Keiley left, Taylor sliding in conceding the throw taken quickly Robbens away down the left her cross into the area long. Heaney getting back to help the defence an throw for Sprowston right pt inside for Morris a poke goalwards from the top of the area runs wide of the post. Poppy Wilson defending well inside the box as Jenkins left looks to get onto the end of a diagonal ball from the left by Fray.
Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens
Midway through the 1st half Sprowston beginning to get on top have Beccles penned back, Fray with support from Read in the middle breaking up Beccles attacks before they can begin. Kirby looks to play the ball on for Morris right get forwards to receive the cross in top of the area, close on Vincent looks to shift the ball take it in past her the defender reading it putting in the well timed tackle. Heaney getting forwards for Beccles her diagonal pass right looking for Owens stopped by Rose, Sprowston break forwards Morris with Kirby right side, Emily Coe managing to get enough on the ball to regain possession for Beccles.
Beccles make the first change of the game Chelsea Caplin on in attack replacing Evans. Rose doing well up against Heaney. The ball on left for Keiley a throw won played into the area Kirby inside the box up for the header the ball back to the keeper safe. A double change for Sprowston, Megan and Melissa Belsey coming on in place of Read and Morris. Olivia Leggett wining the ball at the back into Fray 40 yards out goes for goal catching the ball well doesn’t have the height to trouble Pearce.
Vincent although busy at the back is winning everything inside the box. Bussey cutting in field from the left drives a ball in towards the near post cut out by Wilson deflected behind for corner. Beccles making a change before it’s taken Ottey coming off, Evans back on. The corner defended Beccles struggle to get out the ball won back Kirby pushing on central checks and lays it back to Fray 25 yards out she hits it first time the shot straight at Pearce a comfortable save.
The ball played up the right for Melissa Belsey to chase with Coe the ball squared central to Leggett in a higher position with Megan Belsey at the back she looks to play it back to Fray to strike goalwards, Heaney sliding in denies the opportunity for Beccles. An injury late in the first half to Rose after on the pitch treatment need to come off Monica Cass coming on. Little goalmouth action Sprowston ending the half well pressing high Kirby getting on up the right, Coe tackling.
Half-time Sprowston Athletic Ladies 0-0 Beccles Town Ladies
Goalless at the break neither keeper overly tested, Sprowston growing into the game on top for large spells have had Beccles penned back however their defence although the busier has coped well Boorman’s strike onto the bar their best chance so far. Are creating opportunities in attack and look the more likely to find the opening gal as it stands. Beccles not getting the ball into their opponents box too often have yet to trouble Cole in goal. 0-0 though you get the feeling at this stage there might just be one goal in it.
Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway the ball out to the left Beccles defend Morris back on for Kirby. Jenkins up the wing into the right corner holding the ball up gets a throw the ball dropped into Bussey her cross fired in long across the face of goal, Melissa Belsey in at the far post can’t quite reach it. Pressing right the ball bouncing along the top of the area met by Fray on the volley her shot goalwards once more picking out Pearce. Coe getting outnumbered as Sprowston overload the right wing closes in to make a fine tackle to get the ball up field. Leggett picking up an injury has to go off for some treatment.
Beccles Town Ladies, Emily Coe
Play resuming with a free-kick the stalemate continuing neither side looking like they are going to change the game with a goal. Vincent with a strong tackle at the ball the ball cleared through the middle on for Caplin she has a half a yard on the defence racing after the ball, Cole out of her area getting there first to clear. Sprowston having looked the more likely to score, Beccles having kept them out for so long are beginning to find a bit more going forwards Heaney influential on the ball central. Morris away right on for Melissa Belsey she cuts infield 20 yards out preparing to shoot Coe back to win the ball for Beccles.
Melissa Besley looking to get in behind for Sprowston
A miscue at the back sees Melissa Belsey in behind left racing towards the box Maher back on her to slide in play the ball away from a throw. Sprowston with players up into the box for a corner kick on the right the ball fired in low towards Fray positioned top of the area she meets it first time lifting a shot wide across goal. Robbens comes off for Beccles on comes Ottey. Morris right squaring a cross into Leggett central 25 yards out her shot blocked by Vincent. Leggett comes off for Sprowston with Read back into the action.
Beccles Town Ladies, Chelsea Caplin
Read on the ball left up for Melissa Belsey nicks it off the defence running n behind into the area cutting inside before winning a corner kick. The cross played in put behind by Vincent for a 2nd corner on the left. Put in central a glancing touch sees the ball spin wide of the far post. Pearce sliding in to claim well top right of her box as Melissa Belsey plays the ball on. Heaney with a powerful run on the right taking the ball on lifts a cross into Caplin top of the area looking to control with her head and cushion it down for a shot, is closely marked by Megan Belsey tries to get in back to Heaney closing in from the right, Sprowston getting bodies back to defend.
Beccles Town Ladies, Fran Heaney
Fray through the middle on for Morris, Vincent sliding on to tackle the ball out to the right gathered by Melissa Belsey the cross sent in towards the near post Wilson getting a boot on it to send behind for the corner. Fray off for Sprowston, Leggett back on Poppy Fenn on for Keiley for Beccles. Evans off too with Robbens back on. Kirby returning for Sprowston Bussey off. The changes doing nothing to improve the tempo the neither side threatening to score cancelling each other out as Beccles defend Belsey in attack for Sprowston making some good runs played in by Leggett through the middle, Pearce racing out of her area clears.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies, Rachel Bussey
Morris off for Sprowston, Bussey back on, Beccles on the attack Heaney brought down, Robbens on it right side delivers into the box Cole claiming the ball. Bussey on the ball right attacking for Sprowston gets into the area pulls the trigger her near post effort stopped by Pearce. Jenkins winning a corner on the left the ball put in towards the top of the area Read with the header the ball dropping wide of the right post. Into the closing minutes cannot see either side scoring. Pearce with a brave stop top of her area is hurt as she and Melissa Belsey come together the striker attacking the ball played in from the right. Pearce is okay up on her feet able to continue. A late corner for Sprowston right into the box, Vincent as she has done all game defending for Beccles.
Full time Sprowston Athletic Ladies 0-0 Beccles Town Ladies
The 90 minutes end goalless the Plate Final heading into extra-time neither side looked like getting what would have most likely been the winning goal, Beccles coming into the attack a bit more 2nd half another 30 minutes to see if the game can be won in open play or we head into the dreaded penalty shoot-out.
Extra-time
Assistant Paul Coe departing to referee the 7’s final a substitute made with the officials. Sprowston t get the 1st half of extra-time underway. Attacking left the ball played into the top of the area long finds Cass advanced on the far side her strike dropping wide back across goal. Leggett sends Melissa Belsey on through the middle shooting from outside the box lifts her attempt over the crossbar.
Jenkins on the left cuts in field 25 yards out before shooting no power behind the strike safely gathered by Pearce. Robbens with the ball for Beccles on for Owen right inside to Ottey gives Owen the return ball shooting the ball deflected behind for a corner, cut out at the near post for a 2nd corner this one dropping central inside the six yard box Heaney on it back to goal tries to control and turn into a shot, Sprowston in to scramble it away.
Bethan Owen on the ball for Beccles Town Ladies
Sprowston come right from a throw the ball crossed into the near post a spot of head tennis sees the ball fall to Melissa Belsey 8 yards out stabs her shot wide. Keiley back on for Beccles. Sprowston getting forwards not finding the one clinical chance they need.
Half-time Sprowston Athletic Ladies 0-0 Beccles Town Ladies
15 minutes left a goal now would surely win it but it’s hard to see who it will be, Beccles battling hard to keep Sprowston out have had few opportunities themselves. Beccles get things underway. Owen off Evans back on. The flag up against Evans as Robbens plays the ball forwards. Fray on the ball central for Sprowston bouncing into her won’t fall favourably as she looks to shoot 20 yards out Vincent an Wilson closing her down. Heaney getting forwards with support from Caplin goes right wins a corner can do little else well marked inside the box, the corner behind.
Evans brought down on the right a free-kick for Beccles, Robbens with an inviting ball in for runners to attack, Read winning the race for Sprowston in front of everyone to head behind for the corner. A good delivery into the middle of the six yard box Ottey on it can;t get a shot away pushed back for Vincent to strike a low shot back in the ball cannoning off the base of the right post!
Morris tries to get away into the right channel the ball lifted on Vincent with Coe getting back to regain possession for Beccles. Sprowston make further changes late on attacking can’t get a shot in to trouble Pearce, the final whistle blows and after 2 hours of football it remains goalless the game to be decided by a penalty shootout.
Full time Sprowston Athletic Ladies 0-0 Beccles Town Ladies
Penalties
I hate penalty shootouts (as I may have mentioned before) a game though has to be settled and so each team has five penalties each then if they remain tied it goes to sudden death.
Beccles to take the first penalty Wilson on the ball goes for placement high but too close to the keeper, Cole saving. Kirby to take Sprowston’s first penalty scores a low strike hit with pace low into the bottom corner past the keeper diving to her left. Sprowston 1-0 Beccles.
Ottey with Beccles 2nd penalty a composed strike driven low into the bottom corner to score. Bussey matching her strike to score Sprowston’s 2nd penalty. Sprowston 2-1 Beccles.
Maher up to take Beccles 3rd penalty puts it into the air a comfortable save for Cole shifting left. Rose next for Sprowston her penalty flying over the bar. Sprowston 2-1 Beccles.
Robbens up next for Beccles sends her penalty in past the keep low to the right to score. Jenkins up next for Sprowston her penalty converted. Sprowston 3-2 Beccles.
Vincent up to take Beccles 5th penalty has to score and does to put the sides level at 3 each. Read with the opportunity to win it for Sprowston puts her head int her hands as she sees her high effort saved by Pearce the shootout heading to sudden death! Sprowston 3-3 Beccles.
It’s goalkeeper Pearce to take Beccles next penalty her strike too close to her counterpart Cole with the save. Morris forwards from half way to take smashes her low strike into the bottom corner and turns away in celebration as her teammates race forwards having won the League Plate. Sprowston winning 4-3 on penalties.
A cruel way to settle a match but the winning goal didn’t look likely to come from normal play Beccles battling hard at the back defending Sprowston coming on but not finding a clinical edge. The longer it went on at 0-0 the more likely it looked to stay that way, either side nicking it at the end would have been harsh, Beccles doing well to take Sprowston all the way to penalties.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Katie Fray performing well in central midfield for Sprowston setting up attacks and breaking up play. Melissa Belsey a threat in attack always looking to get in behind. Fran Heaney doing her best to get things going in attack for Beccles with some good runs getting hold of the ball. The award though goes to Beccles captain Megan Vincent a towering performance in defence putting in some vital and well timed challenges thwarting Sprowston on several occasions.
So at the 3rd attempt of asking on a finals day in Norfolk, Sprowston get their hands on the trophy, the League Plate took all the way by their opponents end the season with silverware.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies 2018/19 Norfolk Ladies League Plate winners
Congratulations to Sprowston Athletic Ladies on winning the Norfolk Ladies League Plate.
A fine effort from Beccles Town Ladies whose season isn’t quite over as they enter the BT Sports Pub Cup, wishing them the best of luck and will keep a look out for thier progress.
My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line-ups a brief rest and some food before we go again with the League Cup Final.
This weekend saw the semi-finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition taking place. An all Division One line-up. Beccles Town Ladies reaching the last 4 of the competition were looking to reach their first ever cup final as they travelled to play Aylsham Ladies in their semi-final. A disappointing 2nd half to the campaign for Aylsham who showed early promise upon their return to women’s football this season 2nd for a long spell played out their last league match in midweek a 4-2 loss seeing them finish 5th. A shot at ending the season on a high by reaching the League Plate final. Megan Vincent on target with a goal for Beccles giving them a narrow lead at half-time. Onto the 2nd half and Vincent struck again to double Beccles lead and see them into their first ever final in just their 2nd season.
Their opponents in the League Plate Final will be Sprowston Athletic Ladies who will be making their third successive appearance on a Norfolk Women’s Finals day in their various guises. Their debut as Sprowston Athletic were at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves in the last 4. Katie Fray netting a brace along with a gal for Olivia Leggett securing a 3-1 win for Sprowston Athletic, Laura Watson on the scoresheet for Wymondham.
The Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final between Sprowston Athletic Ladies & Beccles Town Ladies scheduled for Sun 5th May at Plantation Park a 10am kick-off part of the NWGFL Finals day with the 7’s Final & League Cup Final between Sprowston Ladies & Tavern Ladies
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One game played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday just a handful of matches left to play, Thorpe United Ladies Champions have played all their games. this weekend it was the last league game of the season for Sprowston Ladies, into the final of the Ladies League Cup the 2nd placed side were away to Bungay Town Ladies who picked up the 3 points with a midweek home win over Aylsham Ladies on Wednesday. A 4-2 win, Imogen McGregor netting a brace with a goal each to for Jody Wells & Selina Rowland.
Were looking to build on that result at home to Sprowston the scores level at 1 a piece at half-time more of the same 2nd half with both adding another goal to share the points in a 2-2 draw. McGregor scoring both the goals for Bungay the youngster into double figures now for the season. Victoria Leyer on the scoresheet for Sprowston once again with her 28th of the season with Abbi Nobbs also getting a goal. Sprowston finishing on 23 points 2 clear of Gorleston Ladies who still have two games to play.
Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Taverham United Women remain in a strong position at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Their lead 9 points bouncing back well from their 1st league defeat of the season against Tavern ladies two weeks ago. At home this Sunday were taking on Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Taverham are scoring plenty of goals well past 100 now, 36 of those claimed by Rebecca Sutton the clubs top scorers on target with another goal this Sunday. Goals to for Charlotte Hurren her 9th of the campaign and Teigan Robinson with her 12th of the season Taverham winning 3-0. A big week coming up with a trip to Long Stratton Women now 2nd on Wednesday and Clipbush Park on Sunday to play 3rd placed Fakenham Town Ladies.
Those two met this weekend with Fakenham 2nd going into the match travelling to Long Stratton. The hosts taking a 1-0 lad into the break with Emily Watts finding the back of the net. Watts adding a further 2 goals in the 2nd half to claim her hat-trick and in doing so moving onto 25 goals for the season. Long Stratton winning the game 3-0 and moving above Fakenham losing for just the 2nd time in the league into 2nd spot.
Tavern Ladies fourth in Division Two were playing at home on Sunday against bottom side Bulldogs Ladies. The Dereham based side are scoring plenty of goals this season, largely through Katie Hart-Copsey who has more than half their tally moving past 40 goals for the season, sporting a new pair of boots at the weekend they brought her a further 4 goals to take her to 45 goals, Tavern leading 4-1 at half-time went on to win the game 7-2. Nicole Costin scoring a brace for Tavern their was also a 21st goal of the season for Atlanta Griffith. Emily Hinsley making just her 3rd appearance for Bulldogs scoring both goals her first for the club.
Both Zoe Waite and Abigail Bell were celebrating a hat-trick at the weekend for Gorleston Rangers Ladies as they won 8-1 away from home against Horsford Women to move back up into 6th position in the Division Two table. Rachel Adams also on the scoresheet for Gorleston with her 13th goal of the season with Amy Durdin celebrating her 1st goal of the campaign. Laura Hudson with the 43rd minute goal fr Horsford.
Hockering Ladies have done fantastically well to battle on this season more often than not struggling to field a full team, it was a rare occasion this Sunday when the boot was on the other foot, Hockering having not only a full side but someone on the bench. Were at home taking on Thetford Town Ladies who were the ones short on numbers this Sunday with just 8 available. Hockering able to take advantage a get just their 2nd win of the season. Jolene Ayrton opening the scoring in the 7th minute went on to score a first half brace her first goals for Hockering 2-0 up at half-time Leah Brown was on target from a brace too in the 2nd half. Laura Stratton making her 2nd Hockering appearance scoring her 1st goal too along with Sophie Baldry celebrating her 1st Hockering goal in just her 3rd appearance. A 6-0 win for Hockering.
Thorpe United Ladies claim the first honours of the season as they were crowned Norfolk Women’s Division One Champions on Sunday. A 9 point lead at the top of the table going into the weekend have lost just the once in the league from 11 played. The introduction of youth stepping up into the 1st team rejuvenating the squad have led from start to finish. Injuries hampering progress in the cup competitions recently Thorpe went into this Sunday’s home game knowing a positive result would clinch the title. Were taking on Sprowston Athletic Ladies who with games in hand on the leaders remained the only side who could catch them.
Sprowston Athletic unlucky in the finish having gotten themselves into a two goal lead with Katie Fray and Keri Boorman on the scoresheet, Thorpe coming back with 3 late goals to claim the win. Captain and top scorers Rebekah Lake on target for her 15th goal of the season. Laura Hedtke scoring for the 9th time with Alice Smith making her 1st start also celebrating a goal.
Congratulations to Thorpe United Ladies on your title success. Champions!
One more game took place in Norfolk Women’s Division One on Sunday with 4th placed Gorleston Ladies travelling to 5th placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A big win for Gorleston takes them up to 3rd in the table ahead of Aylsham Ladies on goal difference. Mary Croft trebling her tally for the season finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match. A brace too for Sophie Gillett, with Bethany Turner also getting a goal in a 7-0 victory for the visitors.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
A reply for Beccles Town Ladies and Bulldogs Ladies in the quarter finals of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate after the original tie was abandoned after 76 minutes with Beccles leading 4-0 due to a serious injury. Rearranged for this weekend an away trip to Aylsham Ladies awaiting the winner. Beccles getting players back from injury after a long spell without a game Bulldogs Ladies short on numbers. Beccles running out convincing winners to reach the last 4 of the competition, three players on target for a brace, Rosie Cook, Megan Vincent and the first goals of the season for Elisha Maher. Darcie Keiley also scoring her 1st goal, with Emily Coe and Francesca Heaney getting a goal each in a 9-0 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The fixture list virtually wiped out in Norfolk Women’s Division Two on Sunday due to the weather. Only one game surviving and that thanks to a reversal of fixture with Thetford Town Ladies down to visit Freethorpe Ladies becoming the home side. 7th versus 8th in the table, Thetford beginning to find their feet in women’s football recording their 6th win of the season. Melissa Boulton hitting a brace on Sunday moves onto 15 goals this season for Thetford. Shannon Richardson scoring too has 7 for the season with Rebecca White getting a goal too in only her 2nd game for Thetford in a 4-1 win. Kiera Squires the goalscorer for Freethorpe.
All about the Cup this weekend in Norfolk with both the semi-finals of the Ladies League Cup & quarter finals of the Plate competition taking place this Sunday.
Sprowston Lades are the current League Plate holders winning their 1st piece of silverware in women’s football last season. That and a runners-up position in Division One. This season have climbed into 2nd place in the Division One table and through to the last 4 of the League Cup. Were drawn away in the semi-finals to Division Two leaders Taverham United Women, a young side very much in the mould of Sprowston, unbeaten in their debut season in woman’s football. Came up against a Sprowston side that is beginning to find a bit of form and scoring plenty of goals too. Top scorer Victoria Leyer scoring 4 goals in the match moving onto 25 for the season two more than she scored in the whole of last season. Abby Hutchin also claiming a hat-trick in the semi-final for Sprowston has 9 now for the campaign with captain Calista Tink also finding the back of the net for a goal in an 8-1 win to see Sprowston confidently into the League Cup Final.
Sprowston’s opponents in the League Cup Final will be Division Two side Tavern Ladies after the Dereham based side pulled of something of an upset by knocking out Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies in this Sunday’s semi-final game. The game at Scarning playing field Tavern Ladies home pitch (and once home to the deadliest slide in the county, but I was 6-years-old I loved it!) Tavern in good form going into the game scoring plenty of goals Katie Hart-Copsey with 35 from 11 before kick-off. Thorpe missing several through injury with others unavailable. The scores level at the break with both sides scoring 1-1 Tavern went on to snatch themselves a winning goal and reach their first ever final, Hart-Copsey with her 36th of the season and Emily Bell with her first seeing the Division Two side cause the upset. Eloise Peek on target for Thorpe who crashed out of their 2nd cup semi-final in as many weeks.
Katie Hart-Copsey in prolific form for Tavern Ladies this season
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
The Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition at the quarter finals stage, the last 8 throwing up 4, Division One versus Division Two ties with the Division One sides all coming out on top to book their place in the last 4 of the competition on Sunday.
The Beccles Town Ladies squad were well rested going into their home quarter final tie against Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday having not played a competitve match since the middle of December! This has given them a chance to get a few back from injury and they got 2019 off to a winning start with a 4-0 win to book their place in the semi-finals with Lucy Robbens netting twice along with goals from Megan Vincent and a first of the season for Victoria Ottey. The game ending on a sad note abandoned through injury following a collision between Beccles goalkeeper Chloe Pearce and Bulldogs captain Emma Johnson, wishing both players all the best for a full and speedy recovery.
*NB – Have been informed due to this game being abandoned due to the above incident the game between Beccles Town and Bulldogs Ladies will now be replayed a date to be set in due course.
Long Stratton Women from Division Two were in good form going into their quarter final tie at home to Aylsham Ladies on Sunday. The Division One side in need of a positive start after a difficult beginning to 2019, got it with goals from Amber Mayhew and Vicky Lubbock plus first Aylsham goal for both Katrina Carman and Emma Allsopp in a 4-1 victory to see the Division One side reach the last 4 of the Plate.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies won 6-1 away to Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies last Sunday to book their place in the quarter finals of the Ladies Plate competition. This Sunday were away once again taking on Division Two opponents, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Melissa Belsey scoring her 1st ever hat-trick, along with goals from Rachel Bussey and a 1st of the season for Nicole Read seeing Sprowston Athletic reach the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-1 win.
Also reaching the last 4 of the Ladies League Plate competition are Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Were away to Division Two side Thetford Town Ladies in the quarter finals. Sally Hammerton moving into double figures for the season for Wymondham scoring 5 goals in the match. Wymondham comfortably winning with Chelsea Pettifer and Hannah Claughton also getting a goal each along with Gabriella Stone getting her 1st goal of the season in an 8-0 win.
Semi-final weekend for the Norfolk Women’s County Cup a strong line-up in the last four with the huge incentive of Carrow Road waiting for the winners the final of the women’s competition being held at the home of Norwich City FC.
No side winning to lay down both games couldn’t be sorted in the allocated 90 minutes. It was to one of these semi-finals Women’s Football East headed this Sunday to the game between Thorpe United Ladies & King’s Lynn Town Ladies. 4 County Cup final appearances in a row for Thorpe United including back to back successes in recent season’s the underdogs being the lowest ranked side. That said their new side with a good blend of youth and experience are runaway leaders in Norfolk Women’s Division One. King’s Lynn Town Ladies playing in the league above were looking to reach the County Cup final for the 1st time.
Thorpe with a depleted squad a few missing some on the field recovering from injury. Started well with captain Rebekah Lake a threat up top. King’s Lynn were to open the scoring the ball struck well from outside the area by Tiffany Forshaw on the hour to make it 1-0. A narrow lead for King’s Lynn at the break the 2nd half they started to grow in dominance creating chances but failing to find the back of the net to put the tie to bed. The game entering the final 10 minutes Thorpe with a free-kick outside the area was cleared out to Sharnie Boast on the left inside the box struck it well racing through the crowded six yard box to nestle in the back of the net. 1-1 at the final whistle extra-time to be played.
A hat-trick for King’s Lynn Town Ladies, Tiffany Forshaw
King’s Lynn striking early to retake the lead the ball crossed into the area for Forshaw to head down from six yards to score her 2nd of the game. Good work from Jodie Hopkins on the right supported by captain Becky Russell brought a 3rd goal the ball across the face of goal missed at the near post running on for Forshaw to tap in and complete her hat-trick. King’s Lynn 3-1 with 15 more minutes of extra-time left. Thorpe were never out of it a free-kick struck well from outside the box by Laura Hedtke setting up a nervous finish but running the ball into the corner King’s Lynn held on and were ecstatic at the final whistle as they booked their place at Carrow Road.
King’s Lynn Town Ladies through to their first ever County Cup Final
No less dramatic in the other Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-final as Acle United Women took on Wymondham Town Ladies in a repeat of last season’s final. Close rivals always a closely fought contest between the sides both in the ERWFL Premier Division. Both have lifted the County Cup, Wymondham the holders last season’s winners 3-2 over Acle looking to make it 3 finals in a row. League encounters don’t give much away Acle winning 1-0 at Wymondham back in October. Wymondham returned the favour winning 1-0 at Acle 3 weeks ago.
The game started off at tight affair little penalty box action, the opening goal coming as the game closed in on the half hour Wymondham awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out, Mollie O’Callaghan the taker her shot judged to have crossed line despite Acle’s attempts to clear. 5 minutes to go in the first half and it was Acle’s turn to score from a free-kick Amber Rowland finding the top corner to make it 1-1. Wymondham were soon back in front getting down the other end won a penalty. O’Callaghan stepping up to send the ball in for her 2nd of the game. 2-1 the lead at half-time.
Mid-way through the 2nd half and Acle levelled the scores up once again winning a penalty themselves Rowland like O’Callaghan sending the ball past the keeper to make it 2-2. Acle pressed for a winning goal Wymondham keeping them at bay the game ending all square headed int extra-time. A cagey period of extra play Laura Nicholls broke through to send the ball into the back of the net to put Wymondham ahead for the 3rd time in the game, but with 3 minutes remaining Acle equalised for a 3rd time. Broghan Scully sending the ball in from the free-kick. The game heading to penalties the shootout seeing more drama, Acle seeing one strike the post, Summer Ward scored the decisive spot kick for Wymondham to send them into their 3rd successive final. Wymondham winning on penalties 5-4.
The Final to be played at Carrow Road, I can hardly wait! Scheduled for Sunday 28th April with a 3:30pm kick-off.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
One game in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday with 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies travelling to the coast to play Gorleston FC Ladies on Sunday. A 1-0 lead for the visitors in the 1st half Sprowston went on to have the better of the 2nd half to score a further 4 goals and win 5-0 to open up a 3 point gap over Aylsham Ladies in 3rd. Victoria Leyer hitting another brace takes her tally to 21 goals for the season from 10 appearances. Their were goals too for Amee Kennett, Georgina Belton and captain Abby Hutchin.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
One outstanding tie left to play in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition saw another Sprowston side travelling to Gorleston on Sunday with Sprowston Athletic Ladies taking on Division Two side Gorleston Rangers Ladies. The higher league side running out comfortable winners in the finish to reach the quarter finals. Sprowston Athletic wining the game 61 had 6 different goalscorers on the scoresheet with both Melissa Belsey and Rachel Bussey netting for the 5th time this season. Goals too for Olivia Leggett, Katie Fray and Laura Jenkins with Keri Boorman on target for her 1st of the campaign. An away trip to Division Two side Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies this coming Sunday in the quarter final. Rachel Adams with the goal for Gorleston Rangers.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Three matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday. Long Stratton Women taking advantage of Fakenham Town Ladies not having a game to climb above them into 2nd spot in the table with their 5 successive league win. Were on the road this Sunday taking on Freethorpe Ladies. A brace from Beth Stratton taking her to 12 for the season along with a 27th goal of the season for Samantha Walker seeing the visiting side win the game 3-0.
A series of postponements see Tavern Ladies with games in hand in Division Two and should they win those games will be in amongst the top 4 sides themselves. A scoring plenty of goals too. Were away to Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies this Sunday. 4-1 up at half-time the score repeated 2nd half to see Tavern climb up to 6th with an 8-2 victory. Katie Hart-Copsey well in front in the goal scoring charts hit 5 into the back of the net this weekend taking her tally to an incredible 35 goals from 11 appearances. Atlanta Griffith with a goal to against Bure Valley has 15 for the season with Lucy Lincoln and Meganne Smith with her 1st goal of the season also scoring.
Hockering Ladies were once again short on numbers as they entertained Horsford Women at home this Sunday in Division Two. Horsford winning for the 3rd time this season to move further clear of the bottom pair. The winning score 6-2. Laura Hudson was on target for 3 goals her 1st for the club in just her 2nd appearance. Jade Dodds too celebrating her 1st goals for Horsford netting a brace with Tanya Kirton also on the scoresheet for her 3rd of the season. Amy Bambridge scoring both the goals for Hockering.
Quarter finals weekend of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup 8 sides vying for a place in the semi-finals. Just 3 sides from Division One left in the competition and two of those were to meet this weekend the holders Bungay Town Ladies out of the League Cup following an infringement of the rules.
The all Division One clash saw Thorpe United Ladies and Gorleston Ladies meet for the 4th time this season. Thorpe runaway leaders in the league coming out on top of all 3 previous encounter albeit to penalties in the County Cup. Thorpe with home advantage in the League Cup windy conditions a goal from captain Rebekah Lake and a brace for Millie Cursons making her debut having joined from Aylsham enough to see Thorpe into the last 4 winning 3-1 Samantha Hunn scoring the goal for Gorleston.
Sprowston Ladies the other Division One side to have reached the quarter finals of the League Cup, going strong in the league itself, are the current League Plate holders through to the last 8 of the League Cup were drawn at home to Fakenham Town Ladies challenging for top spot in Division Two and an immediate return to Division One itself. It was a performance Fakenham will want to forget, get out of the system as they were beaten heavily by Sprowston, top scorer Victoria Leyer scoring 5 herself in the match including a long range effort from a free-kick. Hannah Roe and Abby Hutchin both scoring two each with Millie Drake scoring her 1st Sprowston goal in a 10-0 win.
5 goals for Sprowston Ladies, Vicky Leyer
A minutes silence held in honour of Michaela Yeates before the match between Taverham United Women and Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday. Has played for both teams sadly lost her battle with cancer recently.
Freethorpe up against a young Taverham side top of Division Two unbeaten with just two points dropped so far this season those claimed by Freethorpe on the opening day of the season. Brought down to earth in the County Cup at the weekend losing for the first time this season Taverham returned to winning ways to book a place in the last 4 of the League Cup on Sunday. Leading by a single goal at half-time Taverham went on to add a further 2 goals 2nd half to win 3-0 their goals scored by Hannah Artis, Katie Dunning & Charlotte Hurren.
Tavern Ladies are the final side to reach the last 4 of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup the Division Two at home to fellow league side Hockering Ladies in the quarter finals, they the side benefiting from Bungay Town’s expulsion. Tavern have played less games than anyone else in the league but are scoring plenty of goals & when they win they usually win big a 12-1 win against Hockering in the league early in the season Katie Hart-Copsey scored half of that tally, scored 4 more this weekend to take her onto an impressive 30 goals for the season. Also scoring 4 in the game was Atlanta Griffith who now has 14 for the season. The score 12 once again without reply Lucy Kean and Nicole Cousin both adding two goals each to the score.
Norfolk Ladies League Plate
The sides missing out on the quarter finals of the League Cup going on to contest the Ladies Plate competition now into it’s 3rd season. 1 game in the 1st Round to be played with all the other sides receiving a bye to the quarter finals. Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies were at home up against Division Tow side Horsford Women. Wymondham proving the stronger side on the day the higher league side progressing comfortably winning the game 9-0.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
One match played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend with 4th placed Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies travelling to Thetford to play bottom side Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday. Bure Valley are scoring plenty of goals too and a 5-1 win at the weekend sees them consolidate 4th position in the league but it remains very tight in the middle of the table with the 4th to 8th placed sides separated by just 5 points.
