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.
No Round-Up from Norfolk last Sunday as the heavy rainfall over the weekend saw the county completely underway all fixtures wiped out. Thankfully a different story this Sunday despite their being persistent rain leading up to Sunday all bar one scheduled fixture took place. The game not taking place involving Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies at home to Thetford Town Ladies.
That saw the lead at the top of the table change once again with Bungay Town Ladies joining Thorpe on 12 points keeping up their 100% winning start to the season at home to Taverham United Ladies. 4 wins from 4 coming courtesy of a 5-2 victory. Porsha Renwick making her 3rd appearance for Bungay celebrating her first two goals at the weekend. Nicola Hazell and Selina Rowland both scoring their 3rd goals of the season, their was a goal too for top scorers Leanne Smith her tally now 8 from 4 played. A 3rd straight league defeat for Taverham at the start of the season yet despite that have their 1st 3 points on the board awarded a home win against Thetford earlier in the season. Their goals at the weekend scored by Rebecca Sutton and a first of the campaign for Maya Lawlor.
6 goals for the season for Tavern Ladies, Lucy Kean
Newly promoted Tavern Ladies continuing their excellent start to the season matching Bungay and Thorpe at the top of the table with 4 wins from 4 following promotion to Division One this season. A fourth consecutive win coming away from home on Sunday against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. A wonder goal from Atlanta Griffith her 5th of the season seeing Tavern leading 1-0 at the break the visitors going on to score a further 3 goals in the 2nd period to win 4-0. Lucy Kean amongst the goals at the start of the season top scorer after she scored a brace on Sunday with Victoria Fusco also on target.
A big win for Sprowston Ladies away from home on Sunday to keep 3 points behind the leading trio in Division One their 3rd win of the season coming against newly promoted Freethorpe Ladies. Leading 4-0 at half-time Sprowston ran riot in the 2nd period to add a further 9 goals to win 13-0. Victoria Leyer more than doubling her goals tally for the season on target to score 8 goals at the weekend moving her onto 14 in total. Abby Hutchin and Emily Hall both getting a goal each with Abbi Nobbs and Calista Tink both on target for their first goals of the season an own goal completing the scoresheet.
Fakenham Town Ladies win for the 2nd time this season following promotion from Division Two. Form up and down at the start of the season, new signings settling into the squad got a good result at home on Sunday against Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Sophie Lubbock scoring along with captain Sian Sands with her first of the season to see the game won 2-1. Kate Morris with the goal for Sprowston Athletic.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Four games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday. Leaders Stalham Town Ladies travelling to Thorpe United Ladies Reserves this Sunday looking to keep up their 100% winning start to the season. Goals for Amber Mayhew and Emma Gillespie with her first of the season putting Stalham into a 2-0 lead, Thorpe United with back to back wins coming into the match battling back with Joanne Hooper and Alice Ladbrooke with a goal each to earn them a share of the points and end Stalham’s winning start.
Stalham’s lead at the top of Division Two cut to a point with Beccles Town Ladies winning their 3rd game of the season, back to back wins themselves at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies on Sunday. Lola Barber-King on target scoring a goal her 7th of the season for Beccles, Ellie Hills also getting a goal along with a first Beccles goal for Chloe Pearce, normally the clubs regular goalkeeper getting a game playing outfield. Beccles winning 3-1 to collect the 3 points. Carrie Last on the scoresheet for North Walsham netting her first for the club.
Mulbarton Belles won for the 2nd time this season their first 3 points coming on the opening day the squad hit by injuries since suffering back to back defeats a positive result this weekend on the road away to Bulldogs Ladies. Amy Coaker leaping to the top of the goal scoring charts scoring her first goals for the club finding the back of the net for four goals. Megan Sampson too celebrating her first goals for Mulbarton netting a brace their was a goal to for Abigail Storey in a 7-0 win.
Waveney Ladies making a late start to the season joining Norfolk Women’s Division Two this season winning their opening fixture 2-0 at home to Mulbarton 2 weeks ago made it back to back wins have 6 points on the board winning at home again this Sunday up against Red Rose Ladies. The hosts with 3 goals early in the first half helping them to secure victory. Red Rose scoring to pull it back to 3-1 with 5 minutes left to play Waveney scoring a 4th goal late on to wrap up a 4-1 victory.
Despite the heavy rainfall at the start of the weekend it was good news on the whole for the county league fixtures with most surviving. In Norfolk there were 10 games played across both divisions with everyone off the mark at last. Thorpe United Ladies continuing their excellent start to the season making it 4 wins from 4 played clinching victory at home to Taverham United Ladies on Sunday. Captain Rebekah Lake in great scoring form too taking her tally to 11 goals from 4 played celebrating 4 goals in the game. Thorpe winning 5-1, Natasha Leversley the other goalscorer opening her account for the season. Teigan Robinson getting her first of the season for Taverham last season’s Division Two champions losing their opening two games in Division One.
Thorpe aren’t the only side making a 100% start to the season in Division One, Bungay Town Ladies losing ground due to involvement in the Women’s FA Cup last weekend back to winning ways with a 3rd straight win in the league at home to Sprowston Ladies a close match Bungay edging the result by a single goal Nicola Hazell with the goal to clinch the 3 points.
Nicola Hazell scoring to win the 3 points for Bungay Town Ladies at the weekend
Also making a 100% winning start to life in Division One are newly promoted Tavern Ladies a trip down to Thetford this Sunday to take on fellow promoted side Thetford Town Ladies. The hosts short on numbers Tavern carrying a goal threat taking full advantage to rack up a double figure win, Lucy Kean top scoring in the match with a hat-trick. Atlanta Griffith and Katie Hart-Copsey both on the scoresheet with a brace each, with Nicole Costin, Meganne Smith and Victoria Fusco scoring their first goal s of the season in a 10-0 result.
Sprowston Athletic Ladies join fellow Sprowston side Sprowston Ladies on 6 points in mid-table in Norfolk Women’s Division One winning away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday, Laura Jenkins with her 2nd goal of the season and Lois Irving with her first goal of the season from Sprowston Athletic from the penalty spot seeing the club win their 2nd game of the season.
Also winning their 2nd game of the season and joining the Sprowston clubs on 6 points in mid-table are Long Stratton Women. The win coming away to fellow promoted sides Fakenham Town Ladies this Sunday. A heavy defeat for both on the opening day of the season bounced back to win their next games to get 3 points on the board, Long Stratton making in back to back wins winning the match 2-0. Karmen Harvey with the goals her 1st for the club.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
A perfect start to life back in the 11 aside game for Stalham Town Ladies as they make it 3 wins from 3 at the beginning of the new campaign in Norfolk Women’s Division Two. At home to fellow newcomers Red Rose Ladies who are still looking for their first points of the season. Megan Swain making her first appearance for Stalham Town opening her season with a brace, their was also a first of the season for Sophie Jayne O’Connor and one for Amber Mayhew in a 4-1 victory.
A 2-1 loss at away to Hockering Ladies last time out Beccles Town Ladies were looking to bounce back with victory this Sunday at home to Horsford Women this weekend as they look to get back to Division One at the first attempt. Beccles enjoyed the better of the 1st half to hold a strong 4-0 lead. One more added in the 2nd period to seal a 5-0 victory, Lola Barber-King scoring her 2nd hat-trick of the season to have 6 from 2 appearances for Beccles. Elisha Bower with her first of the season along with Jordan Duke making her first appearance.
Hockering Ladies look a completely different side at the start of the new season winning their opening fixture at home to Beccles, bringing in plenty of new signings were away this Sunday playing Thetford Bulldogs who themselves were short on numbers just 8 listed. Hockering having often been short on numbers themselves last season taking full advantage. Olivia Baker opening her account for Hockering with a penalty last weekend rampant this weekend scoring a double hat-trick one in each half. Shelley Woods often amongst the goals when playing for King’s Lynn Town Ladies also scoring a first half hat-trick t open her Hockering account adding a 4th goal 2nd half. Jolene Ayrton also celebrating a tat-trick with her first goals of the season. Cerys Nicholas also getting on the scoresheet for the 2nd successive match with a brace Hockering scoring 15 didn’t have it all their own way however with Bulldogs managing to breach their defence for 3 goals. Rachael Barrett netting a hat-trick for the hosts.
Losing their opening game of the season Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves sides clinched their 1st win of the season last time out away to Mulbarton Belles. Made it back to back wins this Sunday at home against the new North Walsham Angles Ladies side. Joanne Hooper with her first of the season scoring in the 3rd minute. Emily Warnes also on target for Thorpe the half hour. Mia Calver adding a third goal for Thorpe in the 2nd half . North Walsham getting on the scoresheet through Rhiannon Holt going down 3-1.
Last to get off the mark in Norfolk Women’s Division Two, are new side Waveney Ladies playing their first league game this Sunday at home to Mulbarton Belles. The visitors making a winning start to the season suffering a number of injury blows since players playing with knocks too. Waveney making a winning start to life in women’s football, the 3 points won courtesy of a 2-0 result both goals coming in the first half.
Thorpe United ladies took full advantage of Bungay Town Ladies involvement in the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday to move 3 points clear at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division One. The pair both starting with back to back wins joint top along with Tavern Ladies going into the weekend. Thorpe defending the Division One title at home to Sprowston Athletic Ladies this Sunday. Another brace for captain Rebekah Lake sees her move onto 7 goals from 3 played. A brace to in the match for Aneliese Smith her first goals of the season for Thorpe. The hosts winning the game comfortably 5-0 with midfielder Laura Hedtke also on target for a goal.
A narrow defeat to Thorpe last Sunday Sprowston Ladies were aiming to bounce back at home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves this Sunday. A 2-0 advantage to the hosts at half-time Sprowston added a 3rd goal without reply in the 2nd half to move into 3rd in the Division One table ahead of Tavern Ladies. Victoria Leyer scoring a brace has 6 goals now from 3 played whilst there was a first goal of the season for Amee Kennett.
6 goals from 3 played for Sprowston Ladies. Victoria Leyer
Fakenham Town Ladies suffered a heavy defeat at home in their opening game following their return to Norfolk Women’s Division One two weeks ago losing 10-0 against Bungay Town Ladies. Have had to wait a fortnight to have a chance to put things right. Were away to fellow promoted side Freethorpe Ladies this Sunday, two defeats to start their season in what would be a tough division this season. Fakenham making new additions to their squad over the close season came up against a dogged Freethorpe side who held Fakenham to a goalless draw at the break. Fakenham coming out on top to win their 1st points of the season 2nd half, Vicky Lubbock firing in a 30 yard screamer to open the scoring. Twin sister Sophie making it 2-0 heading in from a corner. Megan Spurrell also getting on the score sheet chipping the keeper to see the game won 3-0.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Three league games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday and new leaders in the fledgling table a host of new sides entering the league this season. Stalham Town Ladies making it 2 wins from 2 following their return to 11 a side football. A 2-1 away win against Horsford Women on the opening day. Back in action this weekend on the road to another returning name North Walsham Angels Ladies who recorded an opening 7-1 away victory last time out. A close contest between the pair settled by a single goal Stalham once again coming out on top in a narrow 2-1 win. Amber Mayhew credited with one of Stalham’s goal details a bit patchy on full time. Rhianne Hindle with her first of the season for North Walsham.
Stalham going top as Beccles Town Ladies having won their opening fixture 10-0 away to Bulldogs Ladies failed to bring anything home from their 2nd game of the season away to Hockering Ladies finally getting their season underway. A tough debut season for Hockering last year often struggling for numbers rode it out and have brought numbers in the squad looking stronger some useful additions and started well Beccles having the bare 11 available. A debut goal in women’s football for 16-year-old Cerys Nicholas along with a penalty dispatched by Olivia Baker seeing Hockering win their opening fixture 2-1. Megan Vincent scoring the goal for Beccles.
A host of sides now on 3 points still very early days in Division Two, Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves side going down 2-1 at home to Horsford Women in their league debut were away to fellow newcomers Mulbarton this Sunday, the visitors clinching the win to collect their first points of the season, Emily Warnes scoring for Thorpe in the first half. Chloe Mussen-Pipe celebrating a double in the 2nd half to see the game won 3-1. Nicole Read in the scoresheet for Mulbarton her first for the club.
10 of the 11 sides in action this Sunday in Norfolk Women’s Division One as we enter the 2nd weekend of the season. Bungay Town Ladies looking strong at the start of the season. Their squad strengthened are scoring plenty of goals. Unbeaten in pre-season taking that form into the Women’s FA Cup and then the league itself beginning with a 10-0 win over Fakenham Town Ladies last Sunday were at home this weekend hosting newly promoted Freethorpe Ladies. Leanne Smith in hot goal scoring form right now 8 goals in her last two matches scored another 4 this Sunday against Freethorpe. Selina Rowland and Charlotte Power both getting on the scoresheet too in a comfortable 6-0 win.
Also making it two wins from two to start the season are Thorpe United Ladies, the defending champions beating newly promoted Long Stratton Women 9-1 on the opening day at home to Sprowston Ladies who themselves won well on the opening day beating Thetford Town Ladies 7-0. A much closer game between the pair with Thorpe United leading 1-0 at half-time. That goal crucial as both scored twice in the 2nd period seeing Thorpe clinch a 3-2 victory. Sophie Jermy, Alice Ladbrooke and Rebekah Lake with the Thorpe goals. Victoria Leyer, Sprowston’s top scorer last season with both the goals for the visitors.
A 100% winning start to the season too for newly promoted Tavern Ladies, the Dereham based side beginning the season with a 2-1 win away to Sprowston Athletic Ladies. Were at home this weekend on Scarning Playing Fields taking on last season’s Division Two Champions, Taverham United Ladies. The young side winning the title in their debut season, Taverham sat out the opening weekend. Now making their Division One bow, Tavern have goals in their side the primary sources last season Atlanta Griffith and Katie Hart-Copsey who reached 50 goals. Both were on target this weekend with a goal each enough to beat Taverham 2-1 to collect another 3 points. Rebecca Sutton scoring her first of the season for Taverham.
Both losing their opening game of the season Thetford Town Ladies newly promoted were hosting Sprowston Athletic Ladies in Division One on Sunday. Both looking for their first points of the season Thetford Town got themselves into a 3-1 lead with Laura Martins on target for a brace along with a goal for Kerri Griffiths. Sprowston Athletic coming back to win the game in the 2nd half scoring 4 more to win the game 5-3. Rachel Bussey opening her account with a hat-trick, Kate Morris scoring her first goals on the season on target for a brace.
Losing 9-1 on their return to Division One against champions Thorpe United on the opening day Long Stratton Women were away to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves this Sunday who had begun the season wit a 2-0 win against Freethorpe Ladies. Long Stratton with a better performance this time around coming away with the 3 points winning the game 4-1 with goals for Samantha Walker, Beth Stratton, Charlie Head and Megan Champion. Rebecca Carver scoring the Wymondham goal.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday with two new sides making their league debut. Norfolk Walsham Angels Ladies returning to the women’s game after the previous side folded at the end of the 2017/18 season. A new look Angels side beginning the new campaign a youthful side they were away to Red Rose Ladies also new to the league this season. A 5-1 loss against Mulbarton in their first game in the league, Red Rose found North Walsham equally tough opponents as the visitors started life in Division Two with a 7-1 win. No info as yet on the North Walsham goalscorers.
North Walsham Angles Ladies 2019/20 (photo credit North Walsham Angels twitter)
Also making their Division Two bow were Thorpe United Ladies new Reserves side. The club having formed at youth level and grown with a strong woman’s side winning the Division One title a Reserves side will be a huge asset to the club going forwards and add to it’s continued growth. Horsford Women their opponents the visitors only formed last season themselves a tough debut campaign a narrow 2-1 defeat to Stalham Town Ladies to start their season. The pair drawing 1-1 at the break it was Horsford who were celebrating their first win of the season at the final whistle clinching a 2-1 win Robyn Nash and Ella Wright the goalscorers. Very early days yet with only two sides having played two matches and Waveney Ladies and Hockering Ladies yet to begin in the league.
The new season begins in Norfolk, once again two divisions but with an influx of new sides to Division Two, Division One is expanded to 11 sides with six sides joining the league from last season’s Division Two. Champions Taverham United Ladies, along with runners-up Fakenham Town Ladies, Long Stratton Women, Tavern Ladies, Freethorpe Ladies and Thetford Town Ladies, will present a huge challenge for some stepping up to a higher level. Gorleston Ladies have taken promotion to the ERWFL. Thorpe United Ladies winning the title last season will be favourite’s once again, others have strengthened though.
10 sides in action on the opening day with Taverham the side sitting it out. Thorpe United Ladies beginning the defence of their title away to Long Stratton Women. Creating a new Reserves side this season Thorpe are beginning to find strength in depth, Rebekah Lake potent in front of goal for Thorpe over the years starting the new season with a bang netting 4 goals. Strengthened in midfield Alice Ladbrooke joining from Wymondham scoring a goal along with fellow midfielders Laura Hedtke and Millie Cursons. Holly Peck and Ellie Hunter also getting their accounts opened for the season in a 9-1 win. Samantha Walker with the goal for the hosts.
Not the highest score of the weekend however as Bungay Town Ladies went one better reaching double figures. A lacklustre season last time around Bungay look to be back recruiting well their squad in good shape and form in pre-season, plenty of target practice too last weekend scoring 15 goals in the Women’s FA Cup. Beginning their league campaign away to Fakenham Town Ladies, Bungay kept up their fine goal scoring form fresh from scoring 5 last weekend Leanne Smith amongst the goals once again with a hat-trick. Both Imogen McGregor and Shannon Dade scoring a brace each. There were goals too for Hannah Jones, Selina Rowland and Nicola Hazell in a 10-0 win.
Bungay Town Ladies opening the season with a 10-0 win
Plenty of goals too for Sprowston Ladies to start the season at home to Thetford Town Ladies. Sprowston forming a partnership with Wroxham Women won the League Cup last season. Got this season up and running with a comfortable 7-0 win. Ellie Hall scoring a hat-trick there was a brace for last season’s top scorer Victoria Leyer. Chelsea Brister and captain Abby Hutchin both getting a goal apiece.
Freethorpe like Thetford Town wouldn’t have been expecting promotion finishing 5th and 6th respectfully. New sides entering the league however an evening up of the leagues was needed. know it will be tough but Freethorpe will be heartened by their opening game result albeit a loss as they travelled to play Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Conceding just the one goal first half, Freethorpe battling, Wymondham added a 2nd to win the game 2-0, captain Chelsea Pettifer and Primrose Rushen with the goals.
Tavern Ladies reached the League Cup final last season beating Thorpe United Ladies along the way. Finishing 4th in Division Two they perhaps should have finished higher early results costing them, now promoted Tavern scored plenty of goals last season in particular Katie Hart-Copsey and Atlanta Griffith. Began the season with an away trip to play Sprowston Athletic Ladies who won the League Plate last season with a assured mid-table finish following promotion to Division One last season. Was a close game with Tavern edging the win 2-1 to claim the 3 points. Goals from Lucy Kean and Atlanta Griffith securing the win. Laura Jenkins finding the back of the net for Sprowston Athletic.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Bungay weren’t the only side to win 10-0 at the weekend as they were matched in Division Two by Beccles Town Ladies. Relegated from Division One last season whilst reached the League Plate final in just their 2nd season they drop back into an unrecognisable league with 10 sides lining up for the new season one missing late on sad to see Gorleston Rangers Ladies have gone but with a strong youth section may well be back one day. Bulldogs, Hockering and Horsford Women still there after tough debut seasons whilst the newcomers are, Thorpe United Reserves and Waveney along with familiar names returning, Stalham Town, Red Rose, Mulbarton Belles and North Walsham Angles Ladies.
Three games to start the season in Division Two with Beccles Town Ladies travelling to play Bulldogs Ladies. The hosts beginning the season short on numbers. Beccles suffering more than their fair share of injuries last season hampering them in Division One having 14 at their disposal. Leading 6-0 at half-time added a further 4 in the 2nd half to reach double figures. Lois Barber-King scoring a hat-trick. Ellie Hills firing in a brace. Maia Hollis, Victoria Ottey, Chelsea Caplin, Lucy Robbens and captain Megan Vincent all with a goal each.
Stalham Town Ladies began the new season away to Horsford Women, came home with the 3 points as they clinched victory with a 2-1 win, scoring a 3 goals, although I haven’t got their scorers available.
Mulbarton Belles make a return to women’s football after a 4 season absence. A newly assembled squad they began with a home match against fellow newcomers Red Rose Ladies. Amy Crowe on target twice for Mulbarton there were goals too in their opening game for Rachel Donovan, Abigail Storey and Harriet Husbands. Mulbarton winning the game 5-1.
