Five games to begin the New Year in Norfolk on Sunday. A fantastic start to the season for Thorpe United Ladies at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One as they defend the league title won last season a perfect 1st half of the campaign ending 2019 with a 100% record 9 wins from 9 to top the table one of three sides making a perfect start to the season. Thorpe United maintaining that record started 2020 as they left off the old year winning away from home again a potential challenger Sprowston Ladies who themselves had lost just twice in the opening half of the season. One of those losses against Thorpe the defending champions have Rebekah Lake leading their attack and their captain has been in fine form in front of goal this season, scoring another hat-trick at the weekend to close in on 30 goals for the season seeing Thorpe seal a 3-1 victory. Calista Tink scoring the goal for Sprowston Ladies.
Keeping the pressure on Thorpe in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies themselves losing just the one game this season that away to Thorpe. In good form scoring plenty of goals Bungay are 6 points behind Thorpe with a game in hand. Were away to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies at the beginning of 2020. A tough first half to the season for Freethorpe without a point on the board always going to be a tough as after being put up to the top division in Norfolk after the leagues were adjusted to accommodate a host of new sides. Nevertheless remain in good spirits and work hard for each other week in week out. Bungay making it 8 wins from 9 played with the goals spread amongst their squad 7-2 the final score. Leanne Smith netting a brace to take her to 11 for the season. Selina Rowland with a goal stays top scorer with 12 their were goals too for Lauren Purling, Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade and Nicola Hazell. Claire Garner and Amy Morris with her first of the season on the scoresheet for Freethorpe.
Another two of the promoted sides meeting at the start of the year as Division Tow champions Taverham United Ladies hosted Tavern Ladies, the Dereham based side with an excellent start to life playing in Division One right at the top with a long standing 100% winning run. Just the one defeat leaving them in fourth spot 9 points behind leaders Thorpe with 2 games in hand. Tavern scoring plenty of goals too, Taverham struggling for results after blazing the way in Division Two in their debut season in women’s football, just the 2 wins this season. Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean amongst the goals for Tavern this season have 23 between them now with both scoring a brace at the weekend to see their match won 4-1. Taverham with just the bare 11 available scoring through Rebecca Sutton.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two games to start the year in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. Newly reformed Stalham Town Ladies with a strong start well clear at the top of the table winning 7 of their opening 9 matches. 9 points clear of 2nd placed Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves side. Stalham Town not in action this weekend a host of sides below all with games in hand on the leaders, Beccles Town Ladies aiming to bounce straight back up to Division One have played just 5 matches so far this season 10 points adrift of Stalham with 4 games in hand were away to Thorpe United this Sunday. Beccles with just the one defeat so far getting 2020 off to the perfect start have Francesca Catchpole back in their squad after a long lay off through injury. Scoring a hat-trick at the weekend has 4 goals now from just two appearances. Top scorer Lola Barber-King also on the scoresheet with her 11th of the season as Beccles ran out 4-0 winners to move above Thorpe into 2nd spot.
In the other game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend new side Waveney Ladies were away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies who ended 2019 on a high with their first win of the season. Just the bare 11 available for Bulldogs in their first game in 2020, Waveney Ladies proved too strong as they opened the scoring in the 10th minute a strong first half seeing them leading 4-0. Two more goals coming in the final 10 minutes to see the game won 6-0 their 4th win in 6 played lifting Waveney up into 4th spot in the Division Two table well placed to mount a promotion push.
A busy Sunday of fixtures to end the year in the Norfolk Women’s County League’s, just the one fixture called off, Tavern Ladies home match against Sprowston Athletic Ladies in Division One. 4 matches were played in Division One however at the weekend and a big win for Thorpe United Ladies sees them stay six points clear at the top of the table with their 100% winning start now extended to 9 matches. Were taking on Long Stratton Women at home, scoring plenty of goals none more so than captain Rebekah Lake smashing home a double hat-trick to take her onto 26 goals for the season, a strong 2nd half in particular seeing Thorpe finish 10-2 winners, also on the scoresheet, midfielders Laura Hedtke and Alice Ladbrooke with their 6th and 5th goals respectfully, Millie Cursons and Aneliese Smith with her first goal of the season. Ellie Sostman with her first of the season and captain Samantha Walker scoring for Long Stratton who finish 2019 on 10 points 8th in Division One following promotion last season.
A double hat-trick for Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake at the weekend
Thorpe with the only unbeaten record in Division One now after Sprowston Ladies ended Tavern Ladies 100% winning start last time out to move into 2nd spot in the league. Travelled down to Thetford on Sunday to play another promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts finding some form playing at a higher level in recent weeks. Sprowston though like Thorpe have a goalscorer piling them in this season, Victoria Leyer going toe to toe with Rebekah Lake scoring 4 at the weekend to give her 27 goals so far this campaign. Abby Hutchin also scoring a goal at the weekend to see Sprowston wrap up a 5-0 win.
27 goals so far this season for Sprowston’s Victoria Leyer
Keeping pace with Sprowston in 2nd are Bungay Town Ladies matching their tally of 21 points 3rd on goal difference have lost just the once this season that to Thorpe, were at home this Sunday taking on another of the promoted sides Fakenham Town Ladies who they beat heavily 10-0 on the opening day of the season back in September. Fakenham finding their feet in the league since then fighting their way up to 5th spot in the league. An improvement upon the first game of the season despite their keeper travelling and being unable to play due to an issue with her glasses. Fakenham nevertheless battling managing to restric Bungay to 3 goals this time around. Lauren Purling scoring a brace her first goals of the season for Bungay and Selina Rowland with her 11th of the season securing the 3 points.
A tough start to the season for Freethorpe Ladies promoted up to Division One never going to be easy no points on the board after 8 played spirits have kept high, their final match of 2019 at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves whom they played on the opening day of the season Wymondham winning 2-0 then. Claire Garner captaining Freethorpe scoring a brace her first goals of the season. Samantha Shaw also saving from the penalty spot, were edged out by the odd goal to lose 3-2. A brace for captain Rebecca Carver and a goal for Alexandra Denes seeing Wymondham end a poor run their last win coming back in October climb up to 7th in the Division One table.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Stalham Town Ladies running away with the lead in Norfolk Women’s Division Two end 2019 9 points clear of the rest of the pack. Losing just the one so far from 9 played 7 wins and a draw their latest 3 points coming at home to Hockering Ladies on Sunday. Sarah-Jayne O’Connor scoring a hat-trick at the weekend to double her tally for the season for Stalham with top scorer Amber Mayhew striking home a brace to give her 14 for the season. Stalham winning the game 5-1.
A positive result for Mulbarton away to North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday could have seen them end the year in 2nd spot in Division Two. Mixed fortunes so far though for a club born in the summer and rapidly growing. North Walsham reentering a side into women’s football in Norfolk this season, young finding their feet 2 wins so far this season, picked up their 3rd to end the year on a high as they narrowly beat Mulbarton 2-1 to climb up onto 9 points joining a cluster of sides well placed to kick on in the New Year. Keira Brown and Rhiannon Holt with her 7th goal of the season helping North Walsham to the win. Amy Coaker scoring her 5th goal of the season for Mulbarton.
Also joining the cluster of sides in the middle of the table on 9 points are Horsford Women made it back to back wins in fact after victory over North Walsham last weekend, 2-1 then a much bigger scoreline this time around at home to Red Rose Ladies. Leading 2-1 at half-time Horsford went on to dominate the 2nd half to win the match 9-1. Natalie Roope top scoring in the game netting a hat-trick. A brace each for Ella Wright and Sophie Nabarro, the latter’s first goals for Horsford. A first goal too for Nicola Fordham and one from Amanda Vincent.
Everyone of the mark at last in Division Two as Bulldogs Ladies celebrate their first win of the season and a convincing one too away to newcomers Waveney Ladies on Sunday. Has been a tough season and a half for the club so far with some heavy defeats along the way. A different story this weekend. Leading Waveney 2-0 at half-time went on to score a further 3 goals without reply 2nd half to win 5-0. Hannah Etcitty making just her third appearance for Bulldogs scoring a hat-trick her first goals for the club. Rachel Hardy with a brace too has 7 so far this season.
Thorpe United Ladies remain 6 points clear at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One after they continued their 100% winning start to the season with an 8th straight win at home to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday the fixture reversed due to the weather affecting Freethorpe’s pitch. Thorpe scoring plenty of goals this season in particular captain Rebekah Lake moving onto 21 for the season netting a brace at the weekend. Braces too for Laura Hedtke and Bryony Knights her first goals for the club. Natasha Levesley, Joanne Hooper and Alice Ladbrooke all getting on the scoresheet too with a goal each in a 9-0 win.
Thorpe now the only unbeaten side in the league as another 100% record fell at the weekend as Tavern Ladies promoted to Division One lost for the first time this season away to Sprowston Ladies who as a result of the win join them on 18 points and go 2nd in the table. A good first half for Sprowston taking a 3-0 lead into the changing room at half-time added a 4th in the 2nd period whilst keeping a free scoring Tavern out at the other end to keep a clean sheet and win 4-0. Victoria Leyer racing way ahead in the goal scoring charts moving to 23 for the season scoring a hat-trick. Chelsea Brister also celebrating a goal for Sprowston.
After an indifferent start to the season back in Division One following promotion Fakenham Town Ladies finding some form are now up to 5th in the league as they take their unbeaten run in all competitions to 5. A bare 11 drawing 0-0 away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves last weekend Fakenham were back at Clipbush Park this weekend hosting the reverse fixture. Despite going 1-0 down Fakenham came back 2nd half to win the game 4-2. Holly Davies with a 25 yard screamer opening her account for the season. An own goal. Sophie Lubbock scoring her 8th of the season and Karina Townsend with her first of the season seeing the 3 points won for Fakenham.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Holly Davies
Sprowston Athletic Ladies also winning at the weekend their 3rd victory of the season now into double figures in mid-table were at home playing Taverham United Ladies. Kate Morris with a brace moves onto 5 for the season. 5 goals for the season too now for Rachel Bussey also getting a goal with Katie Fray scoring her first of the campaign in a 4-1 win. Abbie Walker scoring the Taverham goal.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
A local derby as Beccles Town Ladies hosted Bungay Town Ladies in the 2nd Round of this seasons League Cup. An end to end game Beccles taking the lead Lucy Robbens with the through ball to set-up Lola Barber-King to make it 1-0. Bungay coming back to equalise close to the end of the first half to see the sides drawing at the break Grace Storey with the goal. Bungay awarded a penalty Selina Rowland putting the visitors into the lead in the 2nd period. The game remaining end to end Beccles bringing on a couple of subs Francesca Catchpole finding the back of the net for her 4th goal in 2 matches to send the game into extra-time. Both sides creating chances Bungay getting their noses in front going 3-2 ahead with Porsha Renwick scoring what would prove to be the winning goal and send Bungay into the quarter finals.
Bungay Town Ladies, Porsha Renwick
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Stalham Town Ladies continue to set the pace in Norfolk Women’s Division Two winning again on Sunday to remain 6 points clear at the top of the table. Following on from a 15-0 home win over bottom side Bulldogs Ladies last side were again at home this Sunday entertaining Mulbarton Belles. Stalham’s strong form in front of goal continued top scorer Amber Mayhew netting a brace to take her onto 12 for the season. A brace to for Lalaine Davey her first goals of the season. Emma Gillespie and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor also getting a goal apiece in a 6-2 win. Mulbarton’s goals scored by Evie Hards in her first appearance for the club.
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves move back into 2nd spot in the Norfolk Women’s Division Two table with a narrow 2-1 win away to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies on Sunday, travelling with the bare 11 Thorpe led 0-1 at half-time, Rachel Hardy scoring her 5th goal of the season for Bulldogs. Thorpe with a 2nd goal winning the 3 points thier goals scored by Sophie Jermy and Annika Skoog.
Horsford Women won their 2nd match of the season at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies to join them on 6 points on Sunday in Division Two, a fantastic strike from Ella Wright along with an own goal seeing Horsford to a 2-1 victory.
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
Straight into the counties on this weeks Round-Ups just a handful of matches happening in the higher leagues with a good proportion of those clubs taking part in their various county cup competitions this weekend.
Beginning the action in Norfolk the Women’s County Cup reaching the 2nd Round stage 8 ties drawn with a place in the quarter finals up for grabs. It was to one of those ties Women’s Football East headed this Sunday a trip to The Walks Stadium, home of King’s Lynn Town FC, King’s Lynn Town Ladies getting the opportunity to showcase their game their on what was the 1st #WomensFootballWeekend across the country. Reaching the County Cup final itself last season for the 1st time in their history King’s Lynn had been handed a tough opponent for the 2nd Round the ERWFL Division One side taking on Premier Division side Wroxham Women (formerly Acle United Women). Both sides aiming to reach this seasons final one would exit in the 2nd Round.
King’s Lynn like playing at The Walks, Wroxham settling the quicker both side playing the ball quickly half chances for both, King’s Lynn’s Tiffany Forshaw rattling the woodwork with a powerful strike out wide. Evenly matched King’s Lynn gaining confidence the deadlock broken late in the 1st period, Wroxham pressing the attack winning a corner the ball fired into the crowd gathered near post the ball knocked on into the middle straight to midfielder Ciera Flatt unmarked in the middle controlled the ball before rifling it into the back of the net. King’s Lynn getting joy out wide Forshaw a threat on the left seeing a ball form the back sent her way taking it on struck from wide again this time the ball flying over the keeper and in to see the sides level at the break.
King’s Lynn making a strong start to the 2nd period pushing the attack chances made the better side Wroxham digging in ready to attack. A fantastic strike from captain Becky Russell putting the hosts into the lead with 15 minutes left to play, Forshaw top of the area laying the ball back for Russell 40 yards out to strike, a fantastic hit racing past goalkeeper Amy Bell to make it 2-1. Wroxham responding well King’s Lynn fighting to keep their lead intact the clock running down Grace Birchall picking it up on the right turning inside firing a ball into the top of the area 20 yards out missed by Naomi Cooper running on to Flatt to lift a high shot in towards goal, keeper Bryony Robinson saving parrying the ball up before her, loose their to be attacked Kirstie Kindred quickest to it the Wroxham striker forcing it past her and over the line to equalise and send the tie into extra-time.
The extra-period of play seeing a fantastic shift put in by both sides a hugely entertaining contest the whole game report can be found below this post. No further goals coming the exhausted sides going into a penalty shootout. A penalty put over the bar by both sides seeing it all square at 3-3 with one left each, King’s Lynn up again agony a 2nd miss the ball over meaning Lauren Bullard had the opportunity to win the tie for Wroxham a confident strike low into the bottom corner seeing the shootout won 4-3. Wroxham into the quarter finals.
Elsewhere in the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup their were some huge one sides scorelines. The biggest win of the day coming for Norwich City Women. A 2nd Round exit in the previous two seasons in the County Cup were keen to progress this time and were handed a true mismatch in this season’s draw currently the highest ranked Norfolk side playing in the FAWNL were away to the lowest currently Bulldogs Ladies bottom of Division Two five leagues apart Bulldogs deserve much applause for taking on Norwich, who themselves were humble in victory the final score 21-0 to put them into the quarter finals.
A big win too for the back to back County Cup winners Wymondham Town Ladies the ERWFL Premier Division side keen to make it into a 3rd successive final were at home in the 2nd Round taking on Norfolk Women’s Division One side Long Stratton Women. Striker Hannah Waters firing Wymondham into a 10th minute lead, was 2-0 3 minutes later with Mollie O’Callaghan on target. Laura Nicholls making it 3-0 in the 23rd minute, Jennifer Codman heading in soon after for her first Wymondham goal. Waters with her 2nd seeing Wymondham comfortable leading 5-0 with half an hour gone. Goals from Mia Etheridge and Chelsea Clarke seeing Wymondham 7-0 up at half-time. The goals continued to come at regular intervals in the 2nd period. Nicholls with her 2nd of the game straight after the restart would go on to add a further 3 goals, a hat-trick in just 5 minutes. Rebecca Russell and Freya Symonds with a brace on the scoresheet. Etheridge with a 2nd goal. O’Callaghan netting a further 5 goals to claim a double hat-trick the final score 20-0.
Gorleston Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL Division One were hosting in form Tavern Ladies the newly promoted side with a 100% wining start to the league scoring plenty of goals, Gorleston finding themselves undone in the 1st half as Tavern raced into the strong lead. Gorleston with a mountain to climb 2nd half battled back to score twice with Mary Croft and Abigail Bell scoring a goal each but Tavern progressed into the quarter finals with a comfortable scoreline winning the tie 7-2 to knock out higher league opposition. Atlanta Griffith and Lucy Kean both scoring a hat-trick with Sophie Fuller also getting a goal.
Two 2nd Round ties falling foul to the weather at the weekend waterlogged pitches seeing the matches between Hockering Ladies and Taverham United Ladies and Thetford Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies called off. Thetford and Thorpe will try again tomorrow evening a 7;30pm kick-off at Thetford Town FC. Hockering an Taverham trying again this coming Sunday.
Also through to the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup are Division One side Sprowston Ladies were at home to Division Two side North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round. Progressing with a comfortable 5-0 victory.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies from Division One were also at home to Division Two opposition in the 2nd Round of the County Cup taking on Mulbarton Belles. In an evenly fought contest Sprowston Athletic coming back from behind twice with their 2nd equaliser an absolute screamer from Lois Irving to win the game 3-2 in the 87th minute to send them through the the quarter finals.
The draw for the quarter finals made live on Twitter by Norfolk FA on Monday evening the ties to be played in the New Year Sunday 19th January:-
Tavern Ladies v Wroxham Women
Hockering Ladies or Taverham United Ladies v Sprowston Ladies
Norwich City Women v Sprowston Athletic Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies v Thetford Town Ladies or Thorpe United Ladies
Norfolk Women’s Division One
There was one league game played in the county at the weekend with Fakenham Town Ladies hosting bottom side Freethorpe Ladies in Division One a brace for Sophie Lubbock securing the win for Fakenham their 3rd of the season enough to lift them above Sprowston Athletic into 6th spot.
Remains highly competitive at the top of Norfolk Division One with 3 teams beginning the weekend at the top still with 100% winning starts, Bungay Town Ladies winning 6 from 6 at the start of the season 3 points ahead of both Thorpe United Ladies and newly promoted Tavern Ladies who had 5 win from 5 so far. Two of the three meeting for the first time this season as Thorpe United Ladies played host to Bungay Town Ladies. Women’s Football East along to see the action unfold. Both sides recruiting well over the summer.
Light rain before kick-off an overcast sky it was Thorpe who started the brighter getting hold of the ball in the middle and taking the game to Bungay using the width of the pitch forcing the defence back. Bungay’s defence on the back foot but coping well on the whole Thorpe creating openings whilst preventing Bungay from attacking up the other end. For all their 1st half dominance Thorpe didn’t take the lead until late in the half a driving run into the box from wide from captain Rebekah Lake seeing her cross the ball into substitute Millie Cursons inside the six yard box she scored from close range the ball squirming through as goalkeeper Joanne Pipe attempted to save.
Thorpe defender Tash Levesley challenging for the ball with Bungay’s Porsha Renwick
Thorpe 1-0 up at the break starting the 2nd half in similar fashion, without finding an early 2nd goal. Bungay frustrated getting more joy now players forwards growing in confidence as Thorpe began to retreat a little the game opening up. Bungay looking for a reply risked being hit on the counter, had Pipe to thank for keeping it down to 1-0 pulling off a couple of fantastic saves, Cara Anderson up the other end doing well too as Bungay tried their luck from distance. Bungay couldn’t find that all important equalising goal as Thorpe held out for the win to keep their 100% and join Bungay on 18 points who lose for the 1st time this season. The full match report can be found further down the page.
For all their effort Thorpe ironically fall a place in the league down to 3rd in Division One as the other 100% winning side take over at the top of the table. Tavern Ladies also on 18 points now making it 6 wins from 6 with a double figure win at home to bottom side Freethorpe Ladies. Both promoted to the league this season Tavern scoring plenty of goals whilst keeping it tight at the back. Lucy Kean leading the goal scoring charts scoring 4 at the weekend to move into double figures for the season. 4 goals too for Atlanta Griffith who moves onto 9 goals for the campaign. Katie Hart-Copsey also amongst the goals for Tavern last season’s top scorers doubling her tally for this campaign netting a hat-trick. Tavern beating a spirited Freethorpe 11-0.
Sprowston Ladies remain well placed in 4th place to capitalise on any slip ups from the top 3 just 3 points behind on 15 points winning for the 5th time this season coming out on top in the 2nd Sprowston derby of the season. At home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies this Sunday. A 6-1 away win in the reverse fixture 3 weeks ago. Top scorer Victoria Leyer netting 4 goals in that game was on target for 2 this time around to move onto 20 goals for the season. Leading 2-0 at half-time Sprowston went on to add a 3rd goal in the 2nd half to win the match 3-0 captain Calista Tink also on target with a goal.
5th placed Long Stratton Women were away to Taverham United Ladies at the weekend both sides ending the game with a player send off a straight red for both Taverham’s Hannah Artis and Long Stratton’s Samantha Walker. Long Stratton securing the 3 points to move into double figures following promotion from Division Two last season. Charlie Head scoring a brace with Katie Ransome finding the back of the net for her first goal for the club. Long Stratton winning 3-1, Rebecca Sutton with the strike for Taverham.
Two more newly promoted sides meeting in Division One at the weekend saw Fakenham Town Ladies on the road to take on Thetford Town Ladies. A tough start for Thetford losing their opening five games. Signs they were improving however and earned their first point of the season against Fakenham who weren’t at their best. Clemence Achour with her first Fakenham goal for the club. Thetford Town drawing the game 1-1 getting their first point on the board thanks to a first goal of the season for Rebecca White.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
The battle for the title in Norfolk Women’s Division Two now beginning to heat up with the chasing sides all closing the gap on early leaders Stalham Town Ladies who lost for the 1st time in the league this Sunday. With so many new sides entering the league it was always going to take some time to settle down see which sides would emerge as potential challengers Stalham Town Ladies setting the early pace undefeated in 5 played away this Sunday playing Beccles Town Ladies in 3rd spot. Beccles with a strong performance to win the 3 points and move up to 2nd just a point behind Stalham. Lola Barber-King scoring plenty of goals for Beccles early in netting a brace to put her on 9 for the season. Two more players joining her with two goals each on Sunday with Lucy Robbens and Ellie Hills on target for a brace. Bethan Owen also getting her name on the scoresheet with her first goal of the season Beccles winning the match 7-2. Amber Mayhew with her 8th goal of the season and Sophie-Jayne O’Connor with the goals for Stalham Town.
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves side up there at the top of Division Two pressing for top spot in the table were away to fellow newcomers, Waveney Ladies at the weekend. Thorpe undefeated in thier last 5 games with 4 wins and a draw in both league and cup Waveney making a late start to the league winning their opening 2 fixtures suffering defeat last time out to leaders Stalham Town bounced back well to beat Thorpe United 2-0 to win their 3rd game of the season to move onto 9 points 4 behind the leaders with games in hand on all the sides above them.
An end to end thriller between Hockering Ladies and Mulbarton Belles at the weekend both sides amongst those to potentially mount a title challenge, Hockering recruiting well bringing in players to strengthen their squad, Mulbarton’s still very new and continuing to build. 7 goals between the sides it was Mulbarton who would emerge the winners taking it 4-3 to win the 3 points and make it 3 successive wins to climb up to 3rd in the Division Two table level on points with 2nd placed Beccles a point behind leaders Stalham Town. Gemma Hamilton-Rout with her first 2 goals for the club scoring on debut. A goal too on her debut for Iris Morton-Smith along with one for Harriet Husbands. Cerys Nicholas scoring a brace has 5 goals now for Hockering, with Shelley Woods scoring her 7th since joining the club.
Tight at the top of the Division Two table there was also an important match at the other end with the bottom two meeting on Sunday, Bulldogs Ladies hosting newcomers Red Rose Ladies both with a tough start to the season losing their opening 4 games respectfully. Without a point something had to give at the weekend. Bulldogs scoring 3 goals with Rachel Hardy getting a hat-trick. Red Rose having scored a goal in each of their previous 4 league matches more than doubling their tally for the season up the other end as they hit 7 into the Bulldogs net to win the game 7-3 to claim their 1st 3 points of the season.
A top of the table clash from Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday on Women’s Football East, two sides defending a 100% winning start meeting for the 1st time this season as defending champions, Thorpe United Ladies host Bungay Town Ladies.
Bungay themselves Division One champions the season before, leading the way with 6 wins from 6 so far, Thorpe keeping pace in the defence of their title with 5 wins from 5. Aren’t the only side with a 100% winning start with newly promoted Tavern Ladies in the mix too.
Division One expanded in size this season up to 11 sides following an influx of new sides and a new to even up the two divisions. A strong start with 3 sides all with 100% records, Sprowston Ladies with 12 points from their opening 6 games well placed to capitalise should anyone slip up. One of those 100% records will fall this afternoon.
Thorpe United Ladies finding their form once again last season a force in women’s football since entering the league a strong youth set up seeing a new crop of young players join the squad last season. The squad bolstered going on to win the league title along with reaching the semi-finals of both the County and League Cup. More young players coming in this season, new signing too, Megan and Melissa Belsey from Sprowston Athletic joining the club along with Alice Ladbrooke returning from Wymondham Town Ladies. A new Reserves side formed this season to add to playing opportunities within the club has made a good start to life in Division Two amongst the front runners early on.
A League and Cup double for Bungay Town Ladies the season before last, like Thorpe an established side within the league. A transitional season last time around, losing players took a while to get going bringing new faces in young talent results improving as the season wore on. More new face coming in during the close season experience at a higher level, a fantastic pre-season, winning all their games the momentum carried on into the season itself. 6 wins out 6 to top the league early on, know it will be a competitive campaign with Thorpe and Tavern Ladies matching them so far. Saw Bungay earlier in the season in the Women’s FA Cup in a 15-0 demolition of Riverside Ladies, am not expecting anything like that this afternoon.
The Thorpe Recreation Ground the venue for today’s game, home of Thorpe United Girls & Ladies. A large playing field boasting a number of full-size pitches, a couple of youth matches taking place too on an adjoining pitch. The new clubhouse with a bar and kitchen serving hot and cold drinks. The pitch well used a good size, had hoped to get away with no rain this afternoon but as the teams warmed up it started to fall, light but persistent rain would disappear around 20 minutes into the game itself, thankfully no wind so juggling an umbrella, camera and notepad not as difficult as it could have been.
The players gathering around the centre circle before kick-off, today Remembrance Sunday a minutes silence observed for those who have fought and fallen in armed conflict around the world. Lest We Forget.
Thorpe United Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Morgan Devine, Tash Levesley, Megan Belsey, Holly Peck, Laura Hedtke, Alice Ladbrooke, Melissa Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Molly Howes, Bryony Knights & Millie Cursons.
Bungay Town Ladies starting XI – Joanne Pipe, Kelly Collins (C), Hannah Jones, Charlotte Power, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Selina Rowland, Nicola Hazell, Grace Storey, Samantha Penman & Leanne Smith. Subs – Porsha Renwick, Shannon Dade & Erin Galer.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
Bungay to get today’s top of the table clash underway wearing their new kit, blue coloured shirts with a light green sash across the front, blue shirts and socks with green and white trim. Thorpe in their traditional pink coloured shirts, black shorts and socks. The ball played back towards the defence, midfielder Selina Rowland picking it up carrying the ball forwards over halfway sending it up the line for Samantha Penman to chase, Tash Levesley going with her for Thorpe the full back defending the ball put out for a throw.
Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake looking for a shooting opportunity early in the game.
Thorpe captain, Rebekah Lake a constant goal threat has 12 goals already this season from 5 appearances, the ball played through the middle as she peels off the shoulder of the last defender, Hannah Jones doing well to get back against her shoulder to shoulder into the box right of goal, Bungay goalkeeper Joanne Pipe coming to close the gap sliding in both collide the ball spinning out to the left into the path of Thorpe’s Ellie Hunter she brings the ball under control before striking towards goal, Kelly Collins captaining Bungay round on the cover to intercept the ball and clear.
Bungay Town Ladies captain, Kelly Collins
Bungay get up the other end the ball into the area, no shot on as Holly Pack wins it for Thorpe played out to the left wing Thorpe launch a rapid counter Hunter keeping the ball in play sending it on for Lake who has broken into space on the left plays it inside for the advancing Laura Hedtke through the middle, lines up a 25 yards strike, low in towards goal not troubling Pipe back on her goal line. Thorpe lively at the start of the match getting players forwards quickly when they have possession using the width of the pitch the ball on the right crossed in dangerously towards the near post, Pipe throwing herself up to keep the ball from creeping in pushing it behind for a corner.
The high ball in from the right defended by Rowland, Bungay can’t get an attack going, Thorpe winning the ball back high up the pitch, keep the pressure on out to Melissa Belsey on the right wing another vicious cross whipped in near post, Pipe doing well to get herself in front of Sophie Jermy running in that side to punch the ball to safety. Bungay not settling well passes rushed no one taking time on the ball, Thorpe able to turn it around, competitive in the middle of the park, Alice Ladbrooke backed up by Hedtke not giving much away. Hunter on the left playing a one two with Jermy as she gets on down the wing, receiving the ball coming inside 20 yards out looking to go across the top of the box, dips her shoulder taking the ball inside to shot the ball narrowly wide of the left post.
Ellie Hunter getting on down the left for Thorpe United Ladies
Jermy moving left with Hunter combining again,supported by full back Levesley the ball played back to her 35 yard out goes for goal, the ball on target dipping in front of Pipe, traps it well with her legs to bring it under control and claim on the bounce. Light raining falling up until now making it slick on top has finally stopped. Ladbrooke sliding in to regain possession inside the Bungay half setting up an attack out to Hunter taking it on down the left a cross fizzed in along the top of the area, Charlotte Power getting hold of it for Bungay.
Charlotte power in ahead of Rebekah Lake to win the ball for Bungay
The visitors have got little going in the way of attack so far in the match, kept on the back foot by Thorpe’s bright start, Rowland bringing the ball on a good threaded pass to find Grace Storey free on the right lifts it on into the box for Penman, Megan Belsey across putting in the challenge defending well for Thorpe the ball out for a throw. The ball continues to ping around, no one wants a 2nd touch it seems a little rushed at time passes not finding their mark. Melissa Belsey able to travel with it wide right inside for Jermy breaking forwards shoots early doesn’t get a clean strike the ball across the face of goal wide collected easily by Pipe.
Thorpe have the Bungay defence pushed back, the midfield needing to back up making it difficult when they regain the ball to get anyone up to support Leanne Smith and Penman in attack. The attackers combine as Smith takes the ball on with a marauding run on the left cutting the cross back inside to Penman inside the area her 1st touch seeing her beat her marker knock the ball on towards goal, but as the turns to give chase too much to do as goalkeeper Cara Anderson comes to gather for Thorpe.
Samantha Penman bringing the ball out from the back for Bungay Town Ladies
From a Bungay attacking opportunity off a throw on the left Thorpe win the ball and launch a fast counter attack, Jermy bringing the ball out playing it long for Lake always looking for an opening up top in space, bringing the ball inside closed down in front of the area, opts to cross instead of shot picking out Melissa Belsey far side on the right off the area, her 1st time effort blazed over. Thorpe coming on strong Hunter inside to Ladbrooke the ball knocked on through the middle into the box, Jermy looking to get onto the end of it, Bungay defending desperately, Lake getting a shot away from six yards out, Pipe down to make the save.
Thorpe are using the width of the pitch well Hunter and Melissa Belsey staying close to the touchline the ball worked from left to right well, Jermy central finding pockets of space. with Lake always ready to burst forwards with the ball or to receive it, Lindsey Adams out to intercept on two occasions in quick succession for Bungay. Hunter from the left byline sending in a cross Lake running in far post unable to reach it, Pipe with an outstretched arm plucking the ball down a vital save with Jermy rushing in behind.
Sophie Jermy bringing the ball under control for Thorpe United Ladies
Adams once again across to head the ball clear from the box a Lake drives on down the right flank before attempting the cross. Hedtke up for a throw on the left high up the pitch for Thorpe swinging a dangerous ball low into the box, Power sticking a leg out to deflect it out of Lake’s path central before being cleared. Hunter put in clear on the left from a long ball out of defence races on before crossing a dipping ball into the six yard box, Adams cutting it out and launching clear for Bungay.
Bungay Town Ladies, Lyndsey Adams
Bungay make a change a frustrating afternoon so far for Smith she is replaced by Porsha Renwick. Pipe sharp off her line out to win the race to claim the ball as Lake is put in behind from a lofted pass from Ladbrooke central. Bungay’s defence on the back foot, battling well Jones getting in front of Jermy to intercept a cross put in from the right. Thorpe make a change, Melissa Belsey coming off, on comes Millie Cursons, she goes out to the left side with Hunter coming right.
GOAL! 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half and all the pressure Thorpe have exerted brings them a goal. Lake hard to shake off the ball once she gets hold off it draws players towards her as Thorpe overload the right skipping inside into the area drives on towards the six yard box firing a cross in towards Cursons positioned central inside it, she shoots, close on Pipe manages to get something on the ball as she throws herself down by not enough to keep it out 1-0.
Ladbrooke fouled by Rowland top of the centre circle a free kick to the hosts players come forwards Hedtke to take lifted into the top of the area Riggall winning the header for Bungay, Rowland clears. Bungay make a 2nd change Erin Galer on for Storey on the right, Jones pushed forwards. Thorpe break Hunter right passing inside to Hedtke forwards into Lake she aims to thread it through into the box for the breaking Jermy, Pipe able to claim it.
Thorpe ending the half strong a corner won on the right played up the line short for crossed in near post, Ladbrooke jumping can’t get a touch Rowland back on the post defending to clear for Bungay. A free-kick wide on the right to Thorpe, Hedtke to play into the area cleared by Riggall, the visitors attempt to break, Thorpe in well to break in down as they have all half. Levesley left on for Cursons to cross it caught by Pipe.
Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies
A dominant 1st half display from Thorpe sees them leading at the break, just the 1 goal to show for all that dominance however, Pipe with some excellent stops to keep the score down, other chances not taken. Have hardly been troubled by Bungay in attack. Despite that Bungay battling have defended well often on the back foot struggling to get anything going forwards often starting from deep unable to get support up to their attackers. At 1-0 however they are far from out of the game and half-time a chance to regroup ad reorganise.
As well as serving the community as a sports ground, Thorpe Recreation Ground is a haven for dog walkers. Those attending the match and out for a stroll. The half-time entertainment provided by tiny jacket wearing Chihuahua with probably the squeakiest bark on the planet, not deterred by his size his little legs pumping after a much larger dog, his opponent unsure what to make of his cat sized attacker… it all ended peacefully.
Tash Levesley and Porsha Renwick battling for the ball
The overcast skies seeing the light fading fast as the teams entered the pitch for the 2nd half. Smith back on for Bungay Penman off. Thorpe to get the 2nd half underway attacking left, Power conceding an early corner. Thorpe take it short up the line the cross in from deep almost finds its way through near post. Bungay look to bring it out, Hedtke central in to win it back for Thorpe lifts it up towards the top of the area for Lake, the bounce not favouring the Thorpe captain she plays it instead out to Cursons free left side, her shot put over the bar.
Thorpe United Ladies, Holly Peck
Thorpe beginning where they left off 1st half, Hunter attacking right putting it back central for Hedtke 20 yards out she plays it though to Lake left side of the area, Galer winning the challenge for Bungay a corner conceded. The ball cleared, comes straight back on Devine with a good ball forwards Lake with the opportunity won;t come down as she knocks it to the right, Pipe blocking as she slides in on the ball. Lake gathering the ball on the right played inside for Hedtke 25 yards out shoots over.
Morgan Devine looking for options after winning the ball back for Thorpe
Hunter gets hold of the ball on the right drives on down the line for Thorpe, Collins though stays on her well keeping pace and preventing the cross coming in eventually winning a goalkick. Bungay getting frustrated are far from done battling to find an opening Hazell left side has Smith running into space ahead of her the pass picking her down Smith looks to get on, Megan Belsey coming across to tackle the ball taken off Smith, Peck backing up as Renwick looks to pounce take it on into the area. The game starting to open up a little Thorpe need that 2nd goal. The hosts make a change Bryony Knights coming on to replace Hunter.
Charnelle Riggall
Bungay starting to find a bit of rhythm Rowland and Riggall getting more joy through the middle. Rowland in to win it playing it up to Renwick, Peck preventing her turning in behind. Hazell left turns her marker well off a throw in plays it on to Rowland inside the box flashes a dangerous cross into the six yard box the ball cleared. Another throw won on the corner left side Smith gathering turning pushing on into the area, players closing her down it skips up for Renwick with her in the left to clip in towards goal with the outside of her boot, Anderson well placed to catch.
Selina Rowland on the ball for Bungay Town Ladies
Bungay creating opportunities of their own taking more risks going forwards are further at risk of being hit on the break and Thorpe a quick to turn play around the ball long up to Lake already on the move left channel running with the ball into the area pulls the trigger, a brilliant save from Pipe throwing up a glove to tip the ball over the bar. The resulting corner in from the left knocked down inside the box a scuffed shot in on goal the ball trapped on the line and cleared.
Rowland looking to bring the ball forwards making a couple of strong runs without finding the final pass, the Thorpe defence under some pressure now Bungay fired up sensing they can get something from the game. Rowland on the left after the ball crossing from the byline, Smith sliding in near post, Anderson getting it away down to block. Thorpe bring off Devine to be replaced by Molly Howes with 25 minutes left to play. Smith sends a shot over from outside the ball as a ball is deflected into her path by Jones.
Smith off a quickly taken throw on the left puts it inside to Rowland top of the area, turns attempting to get inside to shoot, a lunging tackle from Ladbrooke denies her. Hazell out wide left takes on a shot from distance in on target Anderson back peddling getting her arms up to tip it away to the right. Bungay keep possession a low driven ball fired back in Anderson down to make another save the ball pushed away for the corner. In from the left inswinging Anderson in a crowded six yard box punching it away.
Nicola Hazell gathering the ball for Bungay
Despite their earlier dominance Thorpe defending a 1 goal lead aren’t comfortable battling themselves now to keep their advantage intact. Lake strong on the ball bringing it forwards left side travelling at pace, Adams defending well for Bungay. Bungay bring on Shannon Dade for Riggall in the middle. Power intercepting a Thorpe through ball, looks to get Hazell away on the left, Ladbrooke regaining possession for Thorpe. Players committed forwards Thorpe counter played up to Cursons central 30 yards out her first touch pass setting up the advancing Lake moving across her into the area right side to shoot across goal, Pipe with another fantastic saving diving to her left arm out to push the ball behind.
The game end to end now the clock running down Bungay can’t clear from the resulting corner Thorpe put it back in Knights near side can’t fashion a shot forced to put it back out to the left the cross long this time Jermy up at the far post her header put cross goal. Bungay get the ball on through the middle Rowland forcing her way in behind clear for a moment looks to have the beating on the advancing Anderson as both slide in Rowland knocking it past the keeper but the power lost on the ball it rolls on to be safely cleared by the recovering Thorpe defence.
Cursons into the Bungay box receiving a long diagonal ball from the left cuts across her shot firing the ball back across the keeper, Pipe with more acrobatics diving full stretch the push the ball behind her goal. A substitution for Thorpe before the corner is taken, Jermy off with Melissa Belsey back on. Lake remains a constant threat peeling away into the channels left this time racing on to shoot on the angle the ball held by Pipe low at her near post. Adams off late on for Bungay, Penman back into the action.
Into the closing minutes the light has almost gone very gloomy, Thorpe battling late on to hold onto their lead, keeping the ball well the youngsters encouraged to run it into the corner. A free-kick won slowing thing’s down Hedtke to play it into the box, headed up high by the Bungay defence play stopped a foul spotted. The ball played out the final whistle blows and Thorpe United Ladies end Bungay’s 100% winning start make it 6 wins out of 6 themselves.. ironically drop a place to 3rd in the table as the other 100% winning side Tavern Ladies go top win a big win against bottom side Freethorpe to claim top spot, all three sides on 18 points now, an intriguing title race that’s far from over.
Full time Thorpe United Ladies 1-0 Bungay Town Ladies
A 1-0 win for Thorpe in the finish Millie Cursons goal late in the first half proving the difference. Thorpe dominant in the 1st half having just the one goal to show for it could and perhaps should have been leading by more. Started the 2nd half well, Bungay frustrated fired up coming strong with opportunities of their own to level the scores as Thorpe grew nervous uneasy will just a single goal lead. Dangerous on the counter though as the game opened up, Bungay had Joanne Pipe to thank producing some fantastic saves to keep it to 1-0. Couldn’t find an equalising goal in the finish and that would have been harsh on Thorpe who in the end had to earn the win.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A few contenders, for Bungay huge credit to Joanne Pipe produced some quality saves to keep her side in the match throughout. For Thorpe, Rebekah Lake has had a few of these and rightly so a constant threat hard to shake off the ball and making great runs to get into scoring position setting up the winning goal. Sophie Jermy too early on especially finding pockets of space between defence and midfield, where Thorpe were strong, the notes will often help towards picking someone out and that is the case today, Laura Hedtke close but just beating her to the award Alice Ladbrooke. Won alot of challenges, breaking up play and setting up attacks.
Always a good rivalry between the two sides and had no doubt today would be a close fought game. 1 goal in it should have been more but kept the intrigue going to the end an entertaining fast paced contest, a good advert for women’s football in Norfolk. Thanks to both teams for the team details always appreciated.
Sprowston Ladies moved to the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One playing in the only league game two weeks ago joining Bungay Town Ladies, Thorpe United Ladies and Tavern Ladies all on 12 points. This weekend they were the only side not in action across the 11 strong Division One as the leading trio all continued their 100% winning starts to the season that see’s Sprowston back to 4th in the table.
Bungay Town Ladies moving clear at the top of Division One in midweek playing at home to Long Stratton Women, a brace from Nicola Hazel aswell as a goal each for Shannon Dade and Selina Rowland seeing Bungay win 4-0. 5 wins from 5, keep 3 points in front at the top with a 6th straight win at home to Thetford Town Ladies this weekend. A strong first half seeing Bungay into a 4 goal lead. Thetford Town promoted from Division Two this season finishing 5th knowing life would be tough in the top tier, a better performance 2nd half battling restricting Bungay to a further 2 goals, scoring a goal themselves with Amy Skipp getting her first goal for the club. Selina Rowland on target to score 4 goals for Bungay doubling her tally taking her to 8 for the season from 6 played. Leanne Smith keeping top scorers spot with a goal moving to 9 with Samantha Penman scoring her 1st goal.
4 goals at the weekend for Bungay Town Ladies, Selina Rowland
Defending champions Thorpe United Ladies remain hot on Bungay’s heels recording a 5th straight win at the start of the season to keep the pressure on. At home this Sunday were taking on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Captain Rebekah Lake continues to be amongst the goals for Thorpe scoring again at the weekend to give her 12 now from 5 matches. Also getting on the scoresheet midfielder Laura Hedtke and footballing all rounder Joanne Hooper. Thorpe winning the game 3-0. Thorpe hosting Bungay this coming Sunday.
Tavern Ladies promoted to Division One this season after a 4th placed finish in Division Two last season continue their impressive start to the season keeping pace with the leading duo winning a 5th straight game at the start of the season. At home this Sunday on Scarning Playing Fields taking on fellow promoted side Fakenham Town Ladies whom they beat in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 1st Round a fortnight ago. Sophie Fuller impressing then was amongst the goals this time around too scoring a hat-trick. Natalie Merry also on target with a goal her first of the season securing a 4-1 win for Tavern. Vicki Lubbock getting the goal for Fakenham.
A competitive game between mid-table Long Stratton Women and Sprowston Athletic Ladies at the weekend. Host Long Stratton getting themselves into a 2 goal lead, Charlie Head and Samantha Walker captaining the side with her 7th goal of the season. Sprowston Athletic coming back to earn a share of the points on target for 2 goals themselves, O’Shea Winter with both goals her first for the club.
A first competitive league win of the season for last season’s Division Two champions Taverham United Ladies, their previous 3 points awarded as a home win. Were at home to fellow promoted side Freethorpe Ladies who having finished 6th last season knew it would be a difficult task as they were moved up with the leagues needing to be evened up following an influx of new sides. Taverham’s young side scoring plenty of goals on their way to the title last season finding thing’s tougher at a higher level themselves seeing two players celebrate a hat-trick, 3 goals each for Rebecca Sutton and Abbie Walker her first goals in the league. Tyla Cole also getting off the mark with a goal with Teigan Robinson also scoring in a 8-1. Freethorpe bottom at last registering a goal with Rebecca White scoring in the first half.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two game played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend, Stalham Town Ladies returning to the top of the table 3 points clear of Thorpe United Ladies Reserves with a home win over Waveney Ladies ending their fellow newcomers unbeaten start whilst maintaining theirs a 4th win of the season coming courtesy of a hat-trick from top scorer Amber Mayhew who has 7 for the season now. Megan Swain also getting her name on the scoresheet in a 4-1 victory. Waveney’s goal coming from the penalty spot.
Beaten for the first time this season a fortnight ago against Thorpe United’s Reserve side Hockering Ladies 4th in Division Two returned to winning ways away to Horsford Women on Sunday. Ella Wright putting Horsford into the lead, the visitors came back to level the scores 5 minutes later with Olivia Baker scoring to see the scores level at the break with her 7th of the season. Hockering going on to win the 3 points 2nd half, Shelley Woods making it 2-1 5 minutes into the 2nd half added a 2nd and her 6th of the season on the hour to secure the 3 points.
A reduced fixture list across the Norfolk Women’s Football League this weekend with the 1st Round of the Ladies League Cup scheduled to take place. There was one league game played too in Division One newly promoted Taverham United Ladies hosting Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves both with 3 points on the board looking for the 2nd win on the season that could get their season going. Wymondham having not won since the opening day of the season getting their 2nd league win of the season winning 2-0. Rebecca Carver and Zara Krischer with her first goal for the club securing the 3 points.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
Four 1st Round ties due to be played this Sunday in the 1st Round of the Ladies League Cup last season’s finalists Tavern Ladies saw their game at home to Mulbarton postponed. Three tie played Division One side Fakenham Town Ladies were at home taking on Stalham Town Ladies who were setting the early pace in Division Two. Fakenham progressing into the 2nd Round courtesy of a 2-1 victory, Sophie Lubbock and Megan Spurrell with the goals. Amber Mayhew scoring the Stalham goal.
Sophie Lubbock & Megan Spurrell with the goals for Fakenham Town Ladies (photo credit Fakenham Town Ladies)
Long Stratton Women also through to the 2nd Round of the League Cup with a comfortable away win against Division Two side Bulldogs Ladies. Samantha Walker a potent threat in front of goal moving onto 6 goals for the season scoring 4 in the tie for Division One side Long Stratton. Leonie Green making her Long Stratton debut scoring her first goal for the club as the visitors progressed with a 5-0 win.
Also in the 1st Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup it was an all Division Two tie between high flying Thorpe United Ladies Reserves at the top of the table hosting Red Rose Ladies. A high scoring encounter with Thorpe running out 8-3 winners at the final whistle. All of Thorpe goal scorers celebrating their first goals for the club 3 making their debut for the side. Rachael Wall with their 1st goal going on to score a 1st half hat-trick adding a 4th in the 2nd half. Annika Skoog scoring a brace on debut. Rosie Leigh too getting her first goal a minute into the 2nd half on her first start. Silvia Ribeiro also celebrating her first goal for the club.
The draw for the 2nd Round of the competition made 8 ties to be played Sunday 24th November listed below:-
Horsford Women v Waveney Ladies
Taverham United Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies
Sprowston Ladies v Sprowston Athletic Ladies
Freethorpe or North Walsham Angels Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies
Long Stratton Women v Thetford Town Ladies
Thorpe United Ladies Reserves v Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves
Beccles Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
Hockering Ladies v Tavern Ladies or Mulbarton Wanderers
This season’s Women’s County Cup competition began in the county this Sunday with 3 ties played in the 1st Round of the competition. Wymondham Town Ladies winning the cup for a 2nd successive season last year played at Carrow Road for the 1st time in front of a record crowd.
Wymondham Town Ladies one of three sides progressing in the 1st Round without playing their opponents withdrawing on the eve of the season starting. Fellow ERWFL side Wroxham Women (previously Acle United Women) and Thorpe United both County Cup winners themselves in recent seasons also progressing.
It was to one of the three ties played on Sunday that Women’s Football East travelled to a relatively short trip for a change up the road to Clipbush Park to watch Fakenham Town Ladies v Tavern Ladies. Both sides promoted to Norfolk Women’s Division One this season, Fakenham bringing in new players to bolster their squad with 2 wins from their opening 4 games. Tavern making an excellent start matching the leaders winning 4 from 4 to see a three way lead at the top between themselves Bungay Town Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies… at the start of the day read on to see a different picture emerge.
Tavern starting the game strong pushing player forwards Lucy Kean beating the keeper in the opening minute only to send her shot wide of goal an early let off for Fakenham. Tavern continued to press closing the ball down opening the scoring inside 15 minutes, the ball pressured outside the Fakenham box coming onto Katie Hart-Copsey on the right side smashing a shot in from 20 yards out to make it 1-0. Tavern looking a threat going forwards restricting Fakenham getting forwards Megan Spurrell a threat on the right of attack the hosts getting it back to 1-1 midway through the 1st half, Spurrell holding the ball up on the right tackled the ball latched onto by midfielder Vicki Lubbock to drive forwards and shoot from distance to score. Tavern getting back into the lead quickly Sophie Fuller brought down outside the area in a dangerous position scoring from the resulting free-kick a superb strike to make it 2-1. Kean putting Tavern 3-1 ahead in the 34th minute Hart-Copsey’s cross spilt Kean coming in on the follow up latching onto the ball to prod home.
Sophie Fuller scoring from the free-kick to restore Tavern’s lead
Tavern Ladies, Atlanta Griffith
Tavern leading 3-1 at the break. Fakenham came out strong at the start of the 2nd half. Tavern though organised at the back throughout. The visitors going further ahead through Atlanta Griffith the ball put into her 30 yards out struck sweetly arching in towards goal past the keeper to make it 4-1 in the 55th minute. A competitive game Tavern winning the physical battle Kean brought down attempting to run through on goal Tavern awarded the free-kick Fuller with another fantastic strike to put them 5-1 in front. A last gasp chance to make it a hat-trick of goals from free-kicks one given inside the D but close in the ball put over the bar. Tavern winning comfortably to progress. The draw for the 2nd Round of the Women’s County Cup due to be made live on twitter at 6pm this Wednesday.
Elsewhere in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup 1st Round in was a much welcomed first win of the season for Taverham United Women. Last season’s Division Two Champions winning the title in the debut season in women’s football away to the current Division Two leaders Stalham Town Ladies who were undefeated going into the match. Taverham finding the form that gained them the title scoring 7 goals against their opponents to advance into the 2nd Round with a 7-1 victory.
Plenty of goals too in the other 1st Round tie an all Division Two clash with newcomers North Walsham Angels Ladies at home to Horsford Women. A 9 goal thriller between the sides. it was North Walsham who emerged the winners edging out Horsford 5-4 to reach the 2nd Round of the County Cup.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Eluded to earlier in the Round-Up a three way tie at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One is now a 4 way tie with new leaders topping the table on goal difference Sprowston Ladies winning their 4th game of the season going top with Bungay Town Ladies & Thorpe United Ladies not playing aswell as Tavern playing in the County Cup 1st Round. Have played two games more narrow losses to both Bungay and Thorpe earlier in the season back to back wins see Sprowston go top playing in the only match in Division One this weekend a Sprowston derby away to Sprowston Athletic Ladies. A strong first half from Sprowston Ladies leading 5-0. Both sides getting on the scoresheet with one goal each 2nd half. Sprowston Ladies winning 6-1. Striker Victoria Leyer on fire at the start of the season scoring 4 times in the match has an incredible 18 goals from 5 played now. Amee Kennett also getting a goal along with Millie Drake scoring for the first time this season. Rachel Bussey getting the 2nd half goal for Sprowston Athletic.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
New leaders too in Norfolk Women’s Division Two with Thorpe United Ladies Reserves going top on goal difference over Stalham Town Ladies who were in County Cup action this weekend. Newly formed this season Thorpe United Ladies Reserves side began with a narrow 2-1 loss to Horsford Women have since gone on to be undefeated with back to back wins and a draw with leaders Stalham Town. A third win of the season coming this Sunday away to Hockering Ladies. The bare 11 for Hockering, Thorpe began strongly, in particular Alice Smith on target for her first goals for Thorpe netting a hat-trick inside the opening 20 minutes. Ellie Hunter making her first start for Thorpe scoring on her debut to make it 4-0. Georgia Dearden pulling a goal back for Hockering her first for the club. As good as it would get for Hockering, Thorpe going further ahead with Chloe Mussel-Pipe scoring to make it 5-1 along with Megan Jay netting her first Thorpe goal on the stroke of half-time. Joanne Hooper scoring for Thorpe midway through the 2nd half the final score 8-1 Emily Warnes on the scoresheet with 15 minutes left on the clock.
Newcomers Mulbarton Belles continue to be ravaged by injuries at the start of the season hampering them, are nevertheless battling on enjoying a positive start to life in Division Two, at home to bottom side Bulldogs Ladies at the weekend who themselves continue to struggle for numbers. The visitors getting themselves into a 1-0 lead at the break made Mulbarton work hard to get back into it the hosts coming back to level the scores winning the game late on 2-1 to win their 3rd game of the season lift them back up to 4th in the Division Two table, Emily Arnall and Ellie Wilson scoring the goals their first for the club.
