A switch of venue saw Norfolk Division One leaders, Bungay Town Ladies travelling to 3rd placed Thorpe United Ladies on Sunday the hosts back in league action for the 1st time since the opening weekend of 2017. Games in hand on Bungay, Thorpe trail the league leaders by 9 points but have played 3 games less. A challenge with Bungay undefeated in league and cup since the start of October. The hosts taking a 2-1 lead into the half-time break thanks to goals from Nicola Hazell and Samantha Walker. Thorpe got a goal back in the 2nd half to see the sides take a share of the points their goals coming from captain Rebekah Lake and Shanice Sutton. Bungay lead the table by 3 points.
In between Thorpe and Bungay 2nd placed Sprowston Ladies maintain their great league form too winning away to Gorleston FC Ladies the visitors though were trailing 2-1 at half-time with Samantha Hunn and Sophie Gillett finding the back of the net for Gorleston. Sprowston came back to win it in the 2nd half, Victoria Leyer scoring in the 1st half going on to net a hat-trick to see Sprowston to a 3-2 victory.
Stalham Town Ladies are the big movers in the Division One table this weekend climbing up from 6th to 4th with an away win on Sunday against Fakenham Town Ladies. A single goal enough to secure all 3 points scored by Joanne Hooper.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
In Norfolk Women’s Division Two, leaders FC Sprowston Ladies kept up their 100% start to the season as they recorded their 10th straight win at home to Bure Valley Wildcats on Sunday. A strong 1st half performance seeing them leading 5-1. Bure Valley Wildcats restricting their opponents to two more goals in the 2nd half to see Sprowston to a 7-1 win keeping them 6 points clear of 2nd placed Beccles Town Ladies. Charlie Head grabbing herself a brace in the match their were goals to for Melissa Belsey, Tammy Graves, Rebecca Kirby and Nicole Read. Juliette Kelly on target for Bure Valley Wildcats in the 1st half.
4 goals this Sunday for Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens
That defeat sees Bure Valley Wildcats slip down a place to 7th in the Division Two table as Gorleston Rangers Ladies shared 8 goals at home to Toftwood United Ladies to win their 3rd game of the season. Ashleigh Cunningham and Lydia Hooper amongst the goal for Toftwood as they scored 3 times, Gorleston Rangers replying with 5 at the other end to seal the win.
Beccles Town Ladies kept up their great league form this weekend just 1 defeat from 9 played on the road this Sunday taking on Freethorpe Ladies. Leading 3-1 at half-time went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win 5-1 opening up a 5 point to 3rd placed Tavern Ladies. Lucy Robbens (pictured) the star of the show scoring 4 out of the 5 Beccles goals, Emily Coe also getting in the scoresheet. Rebecca White with the 1st half goal for Freethorpe.
3 games played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday as leaders Bungay Town Ladies win their 6th straight league game to keep their 5 point lead at the top of the table. On the road taking on mid-table Stalham Town Ladies. Lauren Purling opening the scoring, Samantha Walker scoring her 14th of the season making it 2-0. Walker then missing a penalty Bungay leading 2-0 at the break. The visitors extending their lead early in the 2nd half new signing Abbie Everson making her debut scoring. Nicky Hazell made it 4-0 before Everson found the back of the net for a 2nd time. Emily Leach sent home a 25 yard free-kick to make it 6-0 to the visitors. Walker getting her 2nd of the game with Selina Rowland rounding off the goals to see Bungay win 8-0.
Sprowston Ladies previously leading the Division One table had dropped to 3rd following the withdrawal of Aylsham Ladies. Were at home on Sunday taking on Fakenham Town Ladies. Sprowston holding a comfortable lead in the 1st half going in 3 goals to the good. A closer 2nd half seeing the sides draw 1-1 Sprowston moving 3 points clear of Thorpe United Ladies into 2nd spot in the table. Victoria Leyer, Rebecca Russell, Nicole Smith and Abbi Nobbs scoring the goals for the hosts.
A 2nd league win of the season lifts Gorleston FC Ladies up to 5th place in the Norfolk Women’s Division One table. Away to North Walsham Angels Ladies this Sunday the two sides contesting a goalless 1st half. 2nd half strikes from Samantha Hunn and Molly Sims seeing the visitors claim all 3 points with a 2-1 win.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Two matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two this Sunday with both the Dereham based sides at home suffering different fortunes. Tavern Ladies 3rd in the table close the gap to 2nd placed Beccles Town Ladies to just 2 points with a big win against Gorleston Rangers Ladies. Leading 2-0 at half-time the goals flew in 2nd half as Tavern ran out 12-2 winners. Sophie Fuller top scoring in the match with a double hat-trick. Both Megan Carmichael and Lucy Kean got a brace each with Katie Hart-Copsey and Emily Bell also getting their names on the scoresheet. Zoe Waite and Abigail Bell scoring for Gorleston Rangers.
Toftwood United Ladies were hosting Freethorpe Ladies at Northgate High School on Sunday (my old high school!). Keira Squires scoring twice in the 1st half to give 5th placed Freethorpe a 2-0 lead at the break, Eden Simmonds getting another goal in the 2nd half to secure a 3-0 win Freethorpe’s 3rd of the season moves them into double figures a point behind 4th placed Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies. The game overshadowed however by injury concerns for players from both sides one of Freethorpe’s players suffering a broken leg whilst an ambulance was needed to aid a Toftwood United player suffering from a serious asthma attack. Wishing both the best for a speedy and full recovery.
It was another weekend of disruption to the fixture lists across the East with more bad weather seeing a huge chunk of the scheduled games called off, a complete wipe out the the FAWPL in the Southern, South East Division One and FAWPL Cup. A handful of fixtures surviving elsewhere as a wet Saturday was followed by freezing conditions on Sunday morning turning to snow, sleet and rain unpleasant playing conditions for those fixtures that did get played 13 in all so it’s another all inclusive edition of The Round-Up this week.
ERWFL
Two games managed to beat the weather in the ERWFL this Sunday both in Norfolk. In the ERWFL Premier Division, Acle United Ladies were glad just to be playing again after a 7 week period of inactivity through a combination of postponed cup fixtures and teams then unable to field a side. Playing at The Flegg FDC the all weather pitch playable Acle were hosting bottom side Colney Heath Ladies knowing a win would lift them from 5th into 3rd position in the Premier Division table. The hosts taking an early lead, midfielder Laura Holden making it 1-0 in the 9th minute. Had more chances to extend the lead 1st half Colney Heath keeping them at bay until late on in the 44th minute as top scorer Megan Todd made it 2-0 with her 14th goal of the season. Colney Heath were quick to respond getting a goal in 1st half injury time to head into the dressing room 2-1 down, Nicola Hollick with the goal. More chances in the 2nd half but the goals weren’t breached again Acle claiming the 3 points with a narrow win. A game in hand on both 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies and leaders Billericay Town Ladies with the points gap 4 and 5 respectfully.
Cambridge United WFC Reserves travelled to Norfolk on Sunday to take on Wymondham Town Ladies at King’s Head Meadow the home side 3rd place in the table playing just their 8th league game of the season looking to close down the leading pair Ipswich Wanderers Ladies and King’s Lynn Town Ladies. In a rich vein of goal scoring form Wymondham have scored 27 goals in their last 3 league and cup games alone and got off to a blistering start against Cambridge going 3-0 up inside the opening 7 minutes! Kayleigh Holloway setting thing’s rolling with Wymondham’s 1st goal after 4 minutes quickly followed by a goal each for youngsters, Laura Nicholls and Mollie O’Callaghan. Things threatening to get away from Cambridge the visitors galvanised and kept Wymondham from going further in front. 3-0 at half-time it wasn’t until 2 minutes from time before Cambridge conceded again with Nicholls now 1 goal away from taking her tally to 30 so far for the season making it 4-0. The win moves Wymondham to within a point of 2nd placed Ipswich Wanderers who have played 6 games more.
Norfolk
A piece of sad news to bring you from Norfolk before we get into the weekends match action. Aylsham Ladies have withdrawn from the league having struggled to field a side this season. A real shame such a prominent member of women’s football in Norfolk in recent season’s certainly in the short history of the SWF Blog and Women’s Football East have some fond memories their 4-3 against Bungay Town Ladies a thrill to watch. Division One Champions too, a County Cup Final appearance aswell as winning the League Cup with 2 last gasp goals. Wishing everyone involved with the club all the best for the future and hopefully one day we will see Aylsham back in the NWGFL.
Aylsham Ladies winning the League Cup in 2016
The withdrawal of Aylsham from the league sees their results expunged from Norfolk Women’s Division One meaning a change at the top with Bungay Town Ladies taking over from Sprowston Ladies who drop to 3rd place in the table. The two sides scheduled to meet in the league this Sunday the pitch at Malting’s Meadow in Bungay passing a late inspection. Bungay Town Ladies are in great form their only loss in the league coming back at the start of October visitors Sprowston are themselves unbeaten in the league going into the match. Emily Leach putting Bungay into the lead in the 1st half Sprowston drew level from the penalty spot. Bungay went on to retake the lead a goal from Selina Rowland putting them 2-1 up at half-time. The home side further extending their lead in the 2nd half with Nicola Hazell scoring along with Leach getting her 2nd to make it 4-1. Sprowston struck late on to reduce the deficit losing for the 1st time this season in the league 4-2 the 3 points taking Bungay 5 points clear at the top of the Division One table.
One game played in Division Two this Sunday with leaders FC Sprowston Ladies extending their lead at the top of the table to 6 points. Awarded an away win from a game in December came into the match at home to 2nd bottom Toftwood United Ladies looking to extend their 100% to 9 matches. Scoring plenty of goals in the process too, Charlie Head recently signed scoring 5 goals in the match, elsewhere the goals were spread out amongst Katie Fray, Tammy Graves, Rebecca Kirby, Nicole Read and Rosie Wickenden in an 11-0 win.
Cambridgeshire
One game played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this Sunday and that was where Women’s Football East headed knowing the all weather pitch at The Ridgeon’s Stadium in Newmarket might hold up better than others. Passed inspection it was nevertheless a horrid and bitterly cold day with Newmarket Town Ladies 3rd in the table taking on 4th placed Cambridge City Ladies Development. Newmarket started the better of the 2 sides pressing Cambridge for the ball pushing forwards opened the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes Antonia Smith on hand inside the box to put the ball into the bottom corner of the net. Abbi Griffin just 18 years old making her 50th appearance for Newmarket this Sunday celebrated with a goal to make it 2-0. Jordanne Sillitoe making the lead 3-0 at half-time.
Into the 2nd half and Newmarket extended their lead going 4-0 with Jess Linger putting home a free-kick from outside the box. Cambridge were better 2nd half getting the ball higher up the pitch and a headed goal from Rachel Littlewood pulled it back to 4-1. The win lifting Newmarket above St Ives Town Ladies into 2nd spot in the table with games in hand on leaders Netherton United Ladies.
Elsewhere in Cambridgeshire it was the beginning of their County Cup competition the Women’s Invitation Cup. 2 ties beating the weather, ERWFL Premier Division side playing on 3G hosting Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side ICA Sports Ladies. It was the lower league side who struck 1st blood Lorna Hart putting ICA Sports 1-0 up before Cambridge City went on to equalise and go on to win the game 5-1. Bella Simmons netting 4 goals in the match with 16 year old Anna Kanz scoring her 1st goal for the senior team.
Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership side St Ives Town Ladies were at home in the Invitation Cup taking on Championship South side, Cambridge Rangers Women. Goals from Stephanie Ransome, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Amy Seymour-Shove and Georgia Stancombe seeing St Ives Town progress with a 4-1 win.
Essex
In Essex it was quarter finals weekend in the Women’s County Cup 3 games to be played with holders C&K Basildon Ladies receiving a home walkover following the folding of Colchester Town Ladies. Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies game at home to Corringham Cosmos was postponed. That left 2 quarter finals to be played in less than pleasant conditions.
Harlow Town Ladies from ERWFL Division One South were taking on Premier Division side Writtle Ladies at the Harlow Arena. A goal in each half from Hannah Mold and Sophie Vale seeing Writtle through to the semi-finals.
2-0 was also the winning margin in the other Essex Women’s County Cup semi-final an all ERWFL Premier Division clash this one with two in form and local rivals locking horns once again, Billericay Town Ladies hosting Brentwood Town Ladies. A brace from Georgia Holdaway seeing the visitors progress the the semi-finals Brentwood with the 2-0 win.
Was also quarter finals weekend in the Essex Women’s Trophy competition however just 1 of the 4 ties beat the weather with Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers at home to ERWFL Division One South side, Hutton Ladies. The higher league side progressing to the semi-finals with a narrow 2-1 win goals from Hayley Critchell and Rianne Dimmock enough to see Hutton through despite Laura Bunton scoring for Collier Row Tigers.
There was also some league action in Essex albeit restricted due to the weather in the Essex Women’s Premier Division, Lawford Ladies move back into 3rd position in the table with a 5-0 win at home to Eastern Avenue on Sunday. Jasmine Cox scoring twice with a goal each for Daisy Canny, Tyler Christou and Claire Gauntlett.
One game also on in Essex Women’s Division One and a big win away from home for Hullbridge Sports Ladies sees them return back to the top of the table with their 10th straight league win. Taking on FC Clacton Ladies, top scorers Broghan Kelly added another 5 goals to her season’s tally with a brace each for Patricia McWeeney and Christina Fragnito. With Sophie Fraser, Karley Hunt and Julia Setford all getting a goal each in a 12-1 win.
Beds & Herts
Just the one game to bring you from Beds & Herts in Division One 2nd placed Northwood Ladies moving to within 2 points of leaders St Albans Ladies with a big home win over bottom club Watton Ladies on Sunday. 3 players scoring a brace for Northwood Leanne Jones, Scarlett Keightley and Francesca Webster, there were goals to for Zamina Rehemtulla, Aliyah Ahmed and Emma Steele in a 9-0 win.
Quarter finals weekend in the Norfolk Women’s County Cup this Sunday 8 teams vying for a place in the semi-finals. Six in the end as for the 2nd successive Sunday Acle United Ladies progress in a cup competition without kicking a ball awarded an away win this time over Aylsham Ladies.
Norfolk Women’s Division One side North Walsham Angels Ladies were at home in the quarter finals of the County Cup taking on ERWFL Division One North leaders, King’s Lynn Town Ladies. The higher league side holding the advantage at half-time with a slender 1-0 lead. King’s Lynn doubling the lead 56 minutes into the 2nd half. North Walsham with a quick reply pulling it back to 2-1 with Hope Middleton on target. The win only secured 5 minutes from time with a goal in the 85th minute. Elle Bocking and a brace from Tiffany Forshaw the scorers for King’s Lynn.
Fakenham Town Ladies also from Norfolk Women’s Division One were also at home to ERWFL Division One North opposition in the quarter finals of the County Cup taking on free scoring Wymondham Town Ladies the visitors with a potent attacking line up had an early lead, Nadine Basson scoring in the 6th minute. Hannah Waters made it 2-0 just 2 minutes later. Two more goals for Waters in the 26th and 32nd minutes saw the lead extended to 4-0 as she completed a 1st half hat-trick. Youngster Mollie O’Callaghan getting a goal with the half-time score 6-0 Basson scoring from the penalty spot. More goals came in the 2nd half for the visitors Laura Nicholls wading in on the goal scoring netting the 7th on 58 minutes. 4 goals then added in 10 minutes as both O’Callaghan and Nicholls completed their hat-tracks. Waters scoring another in the 75th. Not done there Wymondham wrapped up a 15-0 win with 3 goals in the last 5 minutes Alice Ladbrooke and Brooke Cheal each scoring with Basson the 4th Wymondham player in the game to claim a hat-trick.
A strong semi-final line-up is completed by Sprowston Ladies who will see themselves as the underdogs despite leading the way in Norfolk Division One. Were at home in the quarter finals taking on Division Two side, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies, a dominant 1st half seeing Sprowston leading 6-0. Bure Valley having a better 2nd half restricting the hosts to just one further goal 7-0 the final score. The draw for the semi-finals of the County Cup will be made on Friday.
Norfolk Women’s Division One
Bungay Town Ladies move to within a point of leaders Sprowston Ladies in Norfolk Women’s Division One after beating bottom side Long Stratton Ladies away from home on Sunday. Nicola Hazell scoring a hat-trick along with a goal a piece for Selina Rowland and Samantha Walker securing the 3 points.
Wymondham Town Ladies were hosting Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday 5th and 6th in the table a point between the sides that remains after the sides played out a 1-1 draw a rare Amii Andrews goal for Stalham Town.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
In Norfolk Women’s Division Two there was just the one match played on Sunday with 3rd placed Tavern Ladies travelling to play Freethorpe Ladies. 2 goals each for Sophie Fuller and Lucy Kean see Tavern consolidate 3rd with a 4-1 win. Rebecca White netting the goal for Freethorpe.
The draws for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup (semi-finals) & Plate (quarter finals) competitions have also been made this weekend and are listed below:-
Norfolk Ladies League Cup semi-finals
Stalham Town Ladies v FC Sprowston Ladies
Thorpe United Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies
Norfolk Ladies League Plate quarter finals
Sprowston Ladies v Beccles Town Ladies
Costessey Sports Ladies v North Walsham Angels Ladies
Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves v Gorleston Rangers Ladies
Two matches played in Norfolk Women’s Division One this Sunday, with Thorpe United Ladies taking over the lead in the league for the 1st time this season, although they dropped points for the 1st time this season in the process. At home to Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves the visitors held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time with Sally Hammerton scoring the goal. Thorpe United coming back in the 2nd half to draw the game 1-1, Shanice Sutton the scorer taking her goals scored tally to 20 from just 7 appearances. The point enough to move Thorpe United ahead of Sprowston Ladies on goal difference.
Fakenham Town Ladies travelled to the coast on Sunday to play Gorleston FC Ladies looking to build on last weekends 3-3 home draw against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Scored 3 goals once again with Jennifer Codman netting a brace along with a debut goal for Jade Dodds. It wasn’t enough however to take anything from the game this time around as the home side netted 4 times up the other end to win the game 4-3, Gorleston winning their 1st league game of the season. Sophie Gillett scoring a hat-trick along with a goal for Bethany Turner.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
In Division Two, Bure Valley Wildcats ladies climb a place in the table up into 5th spot after claiming their 2nd league win of the season on Sunday away to Toftwood Ladies. A goal from each side saw them drawing 1-1 at half-time the visitors going on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win the game 3-1. Abigail Clark, Charlie Cooper and Juliette Kelly getting the goals. Thea Wilson scoring the 1st half goal for Toftwood United.
Gorleston Rangers Ladies won their 1st ever league game in Division Two at the weekend new to the league have been on the wrong end of some heavy defeats claiming their 1st win will do their confidence no end of good. At home to Freethorpe Ladies the sides playing out a goalless 1st half Gorleston Rangers went on to score in the 2nd half and win the game 1-0.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
FC Sprowston Ladies complete the Ladies League Cup quarter finals line up with a big win away to fellow Division Two side Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies in the last remaining 2nd Round tie to be played. Tammy Graves top scoring in the match with 4 goals. Lois Irving hit a brace with goals too for Keri Boorman, Rebecca Kirby, Joanne Pipe and Nicole Read in a 10-0 victory
The Norfolk Ladies League Cup ties are scheduled to be played in the New Year, Sunday 7th January the final line up as follows:-
Women’s Football East was at Clipbush Park on Sunday to watch the Norfolk Women’s Division One match between Fakenham Town Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. It was the visitors who took the early lead Fakenham failing to get the ball clear were undone from a left wing cross as Sally Hammerton headed the ball into the back of the net from inside the six yard box. Fakenham responded well to the early set back and came back into the game with a good performance Rochelle Woods strike smashing against the crossbar was dropped by the goalkeeper to fall over the line to make it 1-1 the home side going on to take the lead Fanny Danskanen turning the ball home as it was fired into the box from the left.
Emma Chambers winning the ball for Wymondham
2-1 the advantage to Fakenham the home side started the 2nd half slowly Wymondham doing the opposite looking to get back into the match a good run from midfielder Laura Hammerton into the box set up striker Eleanor Norton to score the equaliser, 2-2. Wymondham went on to take the lead an unfortunate own goal from a corner by Danskanen seeing the visitors lead 2-3. Into the final 10 minutes and Fakenham were awarded a penalty the Wymondham goalkeeper bringing down Fakenham’s captain Sam King. Sian Sands to take the spot kick powered the ball into the back of the net to make it 3-3 the final score the points shared.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
3 games played in Norfolk Women’s Division Two at the weekend, Beccles Town remain 4 points clear at the table with a victory at home on Sunday against bottom side Toftwood United Ladies the visitors making the trip with just the 10 players available despite this they were holding their opponents 1-1 at half-time, the home side eventually coming out on top in the 2nd half to win 3-1 to record their 7th league win of the season from 8 played. Victoria Ottey, Lucy Robbens and Emily Coe scoring the Beccles Town goals. Rosie Richmond-Smith with the 1st half goal for Toftwood United.
FC Sprowston Ladies keep up the pressure on Beccles Town with a big win at home against Gorleston Rangers Ladies on Sunday, taking their winning start to the season to 6 games. Rebecca Kirby scoring a hat-trick, 3 players all grabbed 2 goals each, Keri Boorman, Joanna Davey and Lois Irving, whilst a further 3 all celebrated a goal each, Tammy Graves, Kelly Hawker and Annika Skoog in a 12-0 win. 4 points behind Beccles, Sprowston have two games in hand.
So too do Tavern Ladies climbing above Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies into 3rd spot with 13 points now winning away from home against Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies. Women’s football proving to be an educational experience for Bure Valley’s young guns alot more physical than the U16s football they’re used to. The sides level at 1-1 at half-time, Tavern went on to win the game 4-2 in the 2nd half with Sophie Fuller scoring a hat-trick, Emily Bell with their other goal.
Norfolk Ladies League Cup
One game from the 2nd Round of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup played at the weekend after a referee no show prevented the game taking place previously, Division Two newcomers Costessey Sports Ladies hosting Division One side, Gorleston FC Ladies. The higher league side having plenty of goal scorers in their sides several found their scoring boots on Sunday, Bethany Turner scoring 7 goals alone, Samantha Hunn getting 4 goals to her name. Both Leanne Smith and Sophie Gillett got a hat-trick, Molly Sims a brace and a goal each for Rosie Cook and Kelly Allen in a 21-0 win. A tough scoreline for Costessey Sports however Gorleston credited them for not giving up despite conceding goals.
The football action on Women’s Football East comes from Norfolk Women’s Division One, been a while since I’ve been up to Clipbush Park home of Fakenham Town Ladies to watch them take on Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves.
Fakenham Town Ladies are an established side in the top tier of women’s football in Norfolk. Although finding themselves at the wrong end of the table recently without looking in danger of relegation. Are currently in 8th position with just the one win from their opening 5 league matches. 3 points today would get them comfortably into mid-table in what is once again looking to be a hotly contested league this season.
Wymondham Town Ladies are one of the most ambitious sides in Norfolk winning the Division One title two season’s ago have made the set up into the regional league finishing 3rd in their 1st season. Their success bringing in an influx of players and the formation of a Reserves side last season. Won the Norfolk Women’s Division Three title last season. Jump straight into Division One this season with the county league switching back to a two league format with an influx of new sides all those in Division Two stepped up along with Wymondham a huge jump maybe but counter acted by the fact Wymondham have a number of their former title winning side available for the Reserves and you would expect them to challenge for the top half of the table currently in 6th a win today would put them right amongst the top 4.
The venue for today’s match one of the best available to a women’s side in Norfolk, Fakenham Town Ladies playing at Clipbush Park on the main pitch along side the men’s 1st team. The ground has practice pitches beyond. The main pitch with a small seated stand one side the changing rooms an clubhouse opposite with a bar and hot drinks available. A good sized pitch offering plenty of width. A bright day, but chilly no wind a few clouds around the sun starting to set behind one of the goals. The new hat was needed to protect the ears.
Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Chloe Easter, Jennie Codman, Selina Goodrum, Karina Townsend, Jemma Riches, Natalie Wright, Fanny Danskanen, Sophie Anderson, Rochelle Woods, Sam King (C) & Sian Sands. Subs – Maddie Smith.
Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves starting XI – Laura Watson, Gemma Perry, Leanne Smith, Emma Chambers, Mary North, Laura Hammerton (C), Alice Collins, Emily Anderson, Gabby Stone, Sally Hammerton & Eleanor Norton. Subs – Amy Burton & Emily Bullett.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
A change of half at the coin toss with Wymondham opting to have the sun setting behind goal at one end behind their backs, Fakenham to kick off the 1st half wearing Amber coloured shirts with black across the heart and down the left sleeve, black shorts and socks. Wymondham wearing red shirts with black shorts and socks. Keeping the ball at the back Fakenham spread play out to the left Natalie Wright with the threaded pass forwards for Fanny Danskanen to attack down the right, Leanne Smith playing left back for Wymondham gets across the winger to play the ball out for a throw.
Wymondham captain Laura Hammerton gets hold of the ball in the middle of the park plays the ball forwards towards the right of the box with striker Sally Hammerton making to run, Fakenham’s Karina Townsend goes with her putting the tackle in to send the ball away for a throw in the right corner. Winning the ball at the back the pass into midfield finds Jennie Codman taking the ball on sends it forwards looking to play Sian Sands in through the middle, a good starting position from Wymondham goalkeeper Laura Watson sees her kick the ball clear from the edge of her area, not aware the flag was raised for offside.
Good build up play from Fakenham getting players forwards as the ball is carried over half way into the Wymondham half the diagonal pass finds Rochelle Woods in space on the left crosses the ball along the box finding captain Sam King at the top of the D, good control flicking the ball up off the ground to strike on the half volley from 20 yards out sends her effort wide of the far post. A good start from the home side Wymondham hit them on the counter the ball played on for Sally Hammerton moving right side again goalkeeper Chloe Easter moves out to that side of her box to kick the ball clear instead plays it straight to a Wymondham boot 25 yards out central the shot comes in low Wright getting the block in as the defence back pedals to protect the goal.
GOAL! The cleared ball spins out to the left wing coming forwards Gabby Stone plays the cross in early heading into the six yard box is straight onto the head of Sally Hammerton at the far post unchallenged a deft header to loop the ball up back across goal to drop over the line to give the visitors the lead inside the opening 10 minutes 0-1.
Sally Hammerton scores the goal to give Wymondham the early lead.
A positive response from Fakenham straight from the restart the ball at the feet of Wright she carries it forwards from the back over the half way line a great ball forwards sees King giving chase to the ball inside the Wymondham box, the ball defended by Emma Chambers conceding the 1st corner of the game. Wymondham defend the near post the ball played back to the taker the 2nd ball in headed clear.
Emma Chambers winning the ball for Wymondham
Fakenham make a change bringing of Sophie Anderson send on Maddie Smith the change seeing Wright move forwards into a midfield role. Fakenham bring the ball forwards Wright in possession on to Woods moving left her pass on for Sands on the left wing reaching the top of the area whips the cross into the box, Mary North heading clear at the near post for Wymondham. Danskanen wins Fakenham a throw attacking down the right wing the ball put into Wright is fired into the area, a mis-cue from Watson as she goes to kick the ball to safety misses, turns to see the ball race harmlessly wide across her goal.
GOAL! The momentum remains with the home side pushing bodies forwards Wright with a great crossfield pass picking out Woods on the move down the left wing in behind the full back reaching the box strikes the ball her rising shot flying towards goal smashes against the crossbar dropping down into play Watson attempts to catch in with King rushing in the keeper loses it and it drops over the line 1-1.
Wymondham make a change Amy Burton coming on for Emily Anderson. Fakenham pressing the ball well attacking the ball with Sands 25 yards out left side releases a shot looks to be heading well over as she connects but dips very late threatening to drop under the crossbar Watson on her line with a very good claim.
Wymondham’s Gemma Perry
Wymondham look to get the ball forwards into their attackers, out left side Stone wins a corner the ball into the area a good one defended at the near post is cleared out towards the top of the box, met by Eleanor Norton she hits the shot back on the low ball getting through the crowd races wide of the post. A competitive contest especially in the middle of the park, Fakenham having runners willing to go whenever the ball is in their possession.
Wymondham’s Eleanor Norton with Fakenham’s Natalie Wright
Smith on the overlap on the left for Wymondham gets forwards as Laura Hammerton regains possession inside the Fakenham half her pass finding the full back her cross fired in low towards the area is cut out by Selina Goodrum for Fakenham. Woods is fouled 25 yards out a free kick to Fakenham the ball played into the area won by Chambers. Watson soon after claiming at her near post as Sands whips in the cross from the right.
GOAL! Fakenham turn the game around having come back from a goal down now take the ur pushing the lead with 5 minutes left to play in the 1st half. Pushing forwards the home side have Woods on space on the left the pass picking her out she takes the ball on before firing a great cross along the top of the area, runners coming in, Danskanen amongst them far post running onto the ball fires her shot past the keeper to bury the ball into the back of the net 2-1.
Wymondham look for a quick response getting the ball out to Norton out wide left she plays the ball into Sally Hammerton positioned at the top of the area, looking to let the ball run across her body and turn onto the shot is closely marked by Townsend the defender blocking to strike as Hammerton goes to shoot the ball spinning away wide for the throw on the right. Norton with more good work on the left taking her marker on and getting the cross in towards the near post, Easter with a good claim.
Sam King getting hold of the ball for Fakenham Town Ladies
Fakenham continue to press well players attacking the back four pushing the Wymondham defence deeper making it harder for the visitors to get the ball forwards with sufficient numbers to attack when they regain possession. Codman with the ball into the box looking for King cut out by North her clearance cleared by Laura Hammerton before Woods can race onto it 25 yards out. From a throw in deep on the left Codman with the ball whips a vicious ball through the Wymondham six yard box Danskanen arriving far post under challenge from Smith can’t get anything on the ball to deflect it towards goal.
Almost a moment of magic from Woods as the ball comes into her from the midfield position in a central position just inside the Wymondham box brings the ball down on her chest flicks it up with her right foot the spinning strikes the ball on her volley with her left the ball whipped in towards goal curling wide of the right post. Great combination play between Wright, Danskanen and King on the right side the cross fired into the box cleared by Chambers.
Half-time Fakenham Town Ladies 2-1 Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves
An entertaining 1st half at Clipbush Park, Fakenham Town Ladies doing well coming back from conceding an early goal to lead 2-1. Pushing the Wymondham defence deeper with players pushing forwards and limiting chances up the other end. Wymondham not managing to do the same up the other end giving the Fakenham defence time to get into position.
The sun getting lower in the sky the temperature dropping rapidly very chilly now the action resuming with Wymondham kicking off the 2nd half. Intent from the visitors straight away the ball with Sally Hammerton wide right plays the pass in towards the top of the area with Collins breaking forwards from midfield, Townsend stabbing a foot in to take the ball away from her, Norton arriving connects with the cleared ball fires her shot in low wide across the Fakenham goal.
Wymondham captain, Laura Hammerton evades the challenge from Sian Sands as she brings the ball forwards
Receiving the ball from a throw on the left Laura Hammerton takes on the shot from all of 30 yards out her effort flying wide of the target. A strong start to the 2nd half from Wymondham who stayed out on the pitch during half time Fakenham a little slow to get going. Wymondham getting players forwards from midfield to support the attackers, Laura Hammerton and Collins both making good runs.
GOAL! It’s one of these runs that brings about the equalising goal, Laura Hammerton bursting forwards with the ball goes on with her run as the pass finds Sally Hammerton on the right wing she plays the ball forwards on for the midfielder breaking into the box right side she squares the ball across the six yard box for Norton running in with her the no 9 firing the ball home to make it 2-2.
Wymondham’s Eleanor Norton
A change for Wymondham after the goal with Emily Bullett coming on to replace Perry at right back. Fakenham come forwards King running in behind on the right side taking the ball down the line sends the cross in angling towards goal, Watson at her near post take it cleanly. Fakenham keep possession around the Wymondham box eventually winning a corner right side the ball is headed away at the near post dropping to Codman outside the area looks to drag the ball between her legs make room for a shot but closed down gives away the foul.
Wymondham’s Laura Hammerton is fouled as she attempts to hold on the ball on the edge of the area from a throw in. Taking the set-piece herself Hammerton strikes the ball well aiming it low in towards the near post Fakenham have plenty of bodies there the ball skimming off the post however as it is cleared for the corner kick.
GOAL! Collins taking the corner on the left sees her 1st attempt in towards the near post headed behind for another corner the 2nd attempt put into the same area sliced behind for a 3rd corner. From this Wymondham retake the lead the delivery going further towards the top of the area Danskanen getting up highest to head the ball her effort turned towards her own goal, wide of Easter nothing she can do except watch it land in the back of her net unfortunate from the home side Wymondham having started the 2nd half well lead 2-3.
The response is quick in coming from falling a goal behind as it has been from both sides so far in the match, Wright playing the ball into Woods moving clear into space left side a touch inside before sending a 25 yard shot curling in towards goal, aiming top corner the ball whistles past the wrong side of the post.
A high ball played in towards the Wymondham area by Fakenham the visitors struggle to get it away dropping for Woods central 20 yards out her shot is deflected wide for a corner kick on the right, players coming forwards for the set-piece Wymondham clear at the near post the break is on the ball played up field into Sally Hammerton she carries it on has support through the middle from Collins giving her the ball sprints on into the box Collins playing the ball on, Easter comes out well to claim the ball before Hammerton can reach it.
Fakenham from a throw deep on the right King linking up with Danskanen her cross fired in low into the box into Woods’ feet she lays the ball off for Wright coming in her shot his charged down by Chambers, back out to King wide right her cross back in headed away by North.
Stone is hurt after a sliding challenge needs to come off for Wymondham, Perry returning to the action. King picking up the ball from inside the Wymondham half takes it forwards left side taking on three players before unleashing a shot her effort blocked the clearance running straight into Danskanen she sends her shot from 25 yards out over the crossbar. Fakenham make a change Anderson returning to the pitch in place of Woods. King with another run with the ball coming into the Wymondham area from the right this time doesn’t get past Chambers.
Fakenham Town Ladies, Maddie Smith
Goodrum clears the ball for a corner after Easter makes the save with her legs on the edge of her area with Sally Hammerton running in behind the defence played through by Collins. The corner whipped in from the right is almost turned in by the keeper as it comes in near post head high getting a glove on the ball it flashes across the face of goal before being cleared. Up the other end a great starting position from Watson denies King a shooting opportunity as she is put in behind by Wright the keeper launching the ball up field.
More good link up play between Laura and Sally Hammerton the midfielder sending the ball through the centre for the attacker to chase heading towards the box checks her run holding up the and losing her marker shapes to shot outside the box left of the D curling the ball in towards goal, is straight at Easter the goalkeeper plucking the ball out of the air. North on a free-kick for Wymondham inside the centre circle plays a great ball into the area over the defence falling left side gathered by Norton she wraps her foot around the all her cross caught by Easter at her near post. Woods returns to the pitch for Fakenham.
GOAL! King is a willing runner up top for Fakenham and when she gets into full flight a challenge has to be timed well, breaking in behind as the ball is played on towards the area right side Watson comes sliding out brings King down, concern as she goes down inside the box has a troublesome ankle the referee points to the spot a penalty kick awarded Watson shown a yellow card. Anderson comes back on for Fakenham King on her feet limping off. Sands to take the penalty a confident strike hit with plenty of pace rising Watson gets a glove on the ball but can’t stop it sailing into the top corner as Fakenham come back from behind to level for the 2nd time in the match 3-3.
5 minutes of regular time left to play the light starting to fade. The game is a little stretched a few tired legs out there. A long clearance by Smith at the back for Fakenham has Woods running in behind, Watson does well to take the ball safely into her body as she is closed down. Townsend defends well against Norton as the attacker looks to get into the box the ball behind for the corner. Late into stoppage time the ball is played into the area from the left Fakenham successfully defend at the near post the ball behind but no time for another corner as the referee blows the final whistle.
The points are shared the sides drawing 3-3 Fakenham coming back from behind twice to equalise a fair result over all, and entertaining game a good watch for the neutral although I was probably the only one there. An early lead for Wymondham, Fakenham responding well a strong 1st half seeing them overall the deficit to lead 2-1. Started slow 2nd half and Wymondham didn’t came back strongly themselves to get back into the game and then retake the lead only to concede a late penalty and see Fakenham level the scores.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
These decisions never get any easier, picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match good performances all over the pitch in midfield in particular, Laura Hammerton having a good game getting hold of the ball her midfield run in the 2nd half getting Wymondham back on level terms. Also doing a great job in midfield today was Fakenham’s Natalie Wright having started at the back with some good challenges and runs her move into midfield spurred the home side on and from it the momentum turned 1st half so today’s Player of the Match goes to Natalie Wright.
My thanks to both clubs today for helping me out at short notice with the team details, a good game to watch plenty of action as is always the case in Norfolk.
The top two weren’t in action this weekend in Norfolk Women’s Division One giving the chasing sides a chance to close the gap at the top and they took their opportunity. 3rd placed Bungay Town Ladies were looking to make it 3 straight wins in the league travelling to play Fakenham Town Ladies this Sunday. Samantha Walker scoring twice in the 1st half for Bungay with Selina Rowland adding a 3rd after Fakenham had found a goal up the other end Jennifer Codman scoring for the hosts. £-1 the lead for Bungay at half-time went onto dominate the 2nd half Rowland getting her 2nd of the game. Eva Evans Emily Leach an Nicola Hazell all getting a goal each in a 7-1 that moves Bungay onto 12 points level with 2nd placed Thorpe United Ladies a point behind leaders Sprowston Ladies.
Also closing the gap in the leaders in Division One are 4th placed North Walsham Angels Ladies with a big home win against Aylsham Ladies on Sunday. Top scorer Luci Middleton adding 4 more goals to her seasons tally in the match taking her to 14. Mary-Anne Hoy scoring twice her 1st goals for the club with Rachel Bussey and Hannah Sturman also getting a goal each in an 8-2 win. Manuela Naprta scoring both the goals for Aylsham Ladies. The win sees North Walsham move to within 2 points of the sides above them just 3 points separating the top 4 now.
5th v 6th at the weekend with Stalham Town Ladies hosting Wymondham Town Ladies a win for either seeing them close in on the top 4 in the end they had to settle for a point a piece drawing the match 2-2 Abbie Charlton and Sophie Lubbock scoring the goals for Stalham. Sally Hammerton and Leanne Smith netting the goals for Wymondham.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Beccles Town Ladies, Lucy Robbens
Beccles Town Ladies remain 3 points clear at the top of Norfolk Women’s Division Two, but the win looked unlikely as they found themselves trailing 3rd placed Tavern Ladies 2-0 with 12 minutes left in the game. Goals in either half from Emily Bell and Lucy Kean putting hosts Tavern Ladies 2-0 up, the with 12 minutes left came the comeback from the visitors a goal from Jordan Duke along with 2 for Lucy Robbens seeing Beccles Town win their 6th league game from 7 to maintain their lead in the table.
5 wins from 5 for 2nd placed FC Sprowston Ladies now at the start of the season as they keep up their 100% winning start with victory away to Freethorpe Ladies on Sunday. The goals spread about the side with 5 different scorers at the weekend with Megan Belsey, Joanna Davey, Katie Fray, Lois Irving and Rebecca Kirby all on target in a 5-1 win for the visitors to keep the pressure up on leaders Beccles Town. Andrea Colbrook scoring the goal for Freethorpe.
Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies move up a place to 3rd in Division Two beating Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies at home on Sunday holding a narrow 2-1 lead at half-time both sides scoring another 2nd half the 3-2 win enough to claim all 3 points move them above Tavern. Goals from Chloe Ashton, Sophie Martin and Donna Parsons seeing Kirkley & Pakefield to victory. Abigail Clark and Juliette Kelly with the goals for Bure Valley Wildcats.
New sides Gorleston Rangers Ladies and Costessey Sports Ladies were still looking to get points on the board as they met at Gorleston on Sunday. Goals from Chloe Bailey and Lauren Dennis saw Gorleston Rangers holding a narrow 2-1 advantage at half-time, Costessey Sports coming back in the 2nd half to level the scores the 2-2 draw seeing both sides get off the mark with a point each. Tamera Brooks and Rose Conroy netting the goals for Costessey Sports.
Unbeaten at the start of the season Norfolk Division One leaders, Sprowston Ladies travelled to 4th placed Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday both sides promoted last season to the top tier in Norfolk starting the season well. On a windy afternoon it was Sprowston who got off to the better start, Chelsea Pettifer on hand to nod the ball into the back of the net from a flick on from a corner in the 7th minute. The visitors dominated the attack pushing their opponents back for much of the 1st half Stalham defended well but were unable to get much going up the other end. Moving into the closing minutes of the 1st half Sprowston found two quick goals to put them in control of the game, Rebecca Russell sending the ball home from outside the box then straight from the restart Victoria Leyer raced through clear on goal to beat the keeper and make it 3-0.
2 goals in the game for Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Russell
Stalham threatened a comeback early in the 2nd half midfielder Vicky Lubbock scoring from inside the box. Sprowston soon restored their 3 goal cushion Pettifer getting away on the left wing sending a low shot from distance across the keeper to score. The final score 5-1 to Sprowston as the ball was played across the area to Russell in space to smash the ball home. 4 wins and a draw from their opening 5 games Sprowston remain top a point above 2nd placed Thorpe United Ladies.
Thorpe United Ladies were at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies 2nd v 3rd with Thorpe looking to continue their 100% winning start to the season. Despite a goal from Emma Faux North Walsham were trailing 2-1 at half-time Thorpe United going on to score another goal in the 2nd period to win 3-1 making it 4 wins from 4. A brace from Charlotte Groves along with a goal for Shanice Sutton for Thorpe United.
Bungay Town Ladies climb the table going 3rd in Division One as they won comfortably at home on Sunday against Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves. Selina Rowland opening the scoring for Bungay in the 12th minute. 5 minutes later the hosts went 2-0 up Emily Leach getting the goal. The half time score 3-0 to Bungay with new signing Kathryn Stanley getting the goal in the 43rd minute. More goals came 2nd half the game moving into the final 20 minutes both Rowland and Leach going on to get another goal each with Samantha Walker making it 6-0 with a minute left of normal time.
Norfolk Women’s Division Two
Level on points at the top of Division Two with FC Sprowston Ladies, Beccles Town Ladies took full advantage of their rivals not being in action this Sunday to move 3 points clear at the top of the table. A tough test at home to 3rd placed Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies a single goal scored in the 1st half from Jordan Duke was the difference between the sides a Beccles Town new to the league this season claimed their 5th win from 6 played.
A local derby in Dereham this Sunday with Toftwood United Ladies hosting 4th placed Tavern Ladies, the bottom side with several new players needing time to get used to each other were up against a few old faces one of those Katie Hart-Copsey netting a hat-trick in the game. A brace too for Sophie Fuller as Tavern ran out 6-0 winners continuing their own unbeaten start to the season and move up a place into 3rd in the process.
Freethorpe Ladies were away on Sunday to new side Costessey Sports Ladies both still looking for their 1st win of the season. Freethorpe held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time. A close game both sides scoring in the 2nd period a narrow 2-1 win seeing Freethorpe celebrate their 1st league win of the season Eden Simmonds and Andrea Colbrook their goalscorers moves Freethorpe up into 5th in the Division Two table.
First match report for a fortnight, rearing to go again after illness forced a couple of weekends rest. The action comes from Norfolk this Sunday in Division One with 4th placed Stalham Town Ladies hosting top of the table Sprowston Ladies.
The Norfolk Women’s football league reverting back to 2 divisions this season having previously been 3. With several new sides joining the league this season the revamp sees most of the sides playing in Division Two last season promoted to Division One, Stalham Town Ladies and Sprowston amongst them.
Both have started the season very well. Stalham Town Ladies recovering from a heavy defeat on the opening day of the season have gone unbeaten in the league since winning 2 and drawing their other game to move into 4th position in the table on 7 points, very tight at the top with 3 points separating the top 4. 2nd and 3rd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies the defending champions also meeting today.
Sprowston Ladies top of the table on 10 points undefeated from their opening 4 league games 3 wins and a draw. Sprowston have two sides in the Norfolk leagues this season. FC Sprowston Ladies are currently top of Division Two, but are not a reserve side, both sides standing on their own right. League Plate finalists last season went on to win the People’s FA Cup. A very strong youth set-up at the club too most of this Sprowston Ladies side from their U16s last season.
The two sides met in the Ladies League Cup 3 weeks ago Stalham Town at home then too knocking Sprowston out with a 2-1 win.
The venue for today’s game Rivers Park home for both Stalham Town FC’s mens and women’s sides. A large pitch elevated from the surrounding car parking area. The weather getting alot cooler as the clocks go back, cloud in the sky a threat of rain, a strong and chilly breeze blowing across the pitch which might influence play as the two sides emerged from the changing rooms for kick-off.
Stalham Town Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Lauren Bunstead, Charlotte Crane, Megan Meale, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Kerry Wright (C), Sophie Burr-Walpole, Vicki Lubbock, Amber Mayhew, Millie Cursons & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Chloe Yarham, Megan Bonham & Abbie Charlton.
Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Jenny Tranholm, Rea Drake, Calista Tink, Beth Cornwall, Nicole Smith, Rebecca Russell, Abby Hutchin (C), Chelsea Pettifer, Thea Hackney & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Georgia Cushion, Paige Barnard & Jade Mundford.
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Stalham to kick-off the 1st half wearing an all red kit with Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with black across right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts with black and orange hooped socks. Pressing the ball right from the start Sprowston make ground up the left wing Victoria Leyer looking to link up with Rebecca Russell going forwards, Stalham’s Charlotte Crane defending that side does well to prevent the cross puts the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball from the throw Stalham counter attack the ball long for Millie Cursons to chase down on the right taking the ball into the corner wins a throw in this brings the 1st corner of the game Megan Meale coming forwards to take fired in near post Sprowston defend headed back out to Meale her 2nd ball in deflected behind for the goal kick.
Charlotte Crane bringing the ball forwards for Stalham Town Ladies
Sprowston attack on the right captain Abby Hutchin bringing the ball on knocks it inside for Thea Hackney positioned at the top of the box she looks to return the ball to Hutchin as she drives into the area her touch taking her away from goal holds the ball up looking up sends the past back towards the advancing Nicole Smith the midfielder takes on the 1st tie strike from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of the near post. Lauren Bunstead with a fantastic tackle at left back for Stalham denies Hutchin from getting a cross into the area following another strong run on the ball up the right flank for Sprowston.
GOAL! Sprowston win their 1st corner of the game and from take an early lead in the match on the right a great delivery whipped in with pace into the near post a great flick on sees the ball sent in across goal and Chelsea Pettifer is there to get her forehead on the ball and nod the ball down over the line to make it 0-1.
Chelsea Pettifer scorer of the opening goal for Sprowston Ladies
Stalham look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Vicki Lubbock putting the ball out wide right for Cursons holds off her marker getting down the line before firing in a cross high towards the near post, is headed clear by Sprowston centreback Beth Cornwall, Stalham pressure the ball Amber Mayhew back to Cursons the corner is won, delivered to the top of the area Sprowston get it clear a counter attack is on Hutchin bringing the ball on up the left, Stalham captain Kerry Wright with a vital sliding challenge to win the ball.
Hackney sees the ball into her feet 30 yards out for Sprowston the striker looks to turn and drive towards the area from a central position strong on the ball, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor goes with her putting the the challenge inside the box, the ball deflected inside Hackney looks to get after it shoot, O’Connor’s centreback partner Meale gets there first to clear the ball. Sprowston are enjoying more of the ball inside the Stalham half but for all their pressing are finding it difficult to get around the back 4. Hackney looks to take on both Stalham centrebacks once again the door is closed in front of her as both slide in to tackle.
Thea Hackney attacking for Sprowston Ladies
Pushed back by their opponents Stalham have started the match slowly unable to get their attackers into the game. From a defensive clearance Sophie Lubbock picks up the ball on halfway looks to get clear and run at the Sprowston box is closed down and tackled by Calista Tink. Vicki Lubbock tries her luck from a long way out her attempt not troubling goalkeeper Megan Lightfoot. Leyer pressing the back high up the pitch, Meale’s back pass to goalkeeper Katie Clarke a little short has Hutchin interested she gives chase, Clarke slides in bravely at the top of her area they collide the ball back deflected away for the corner.
Sophie Lubbock looking to attack for Stalham Town Ladies
Both sides make a change Chloe Yarham coming on for Stalham replacing Wright. Paige Barnard joining the action for Sprowston. Getting plenty of bodies forwards Sprowston have the ball on the left played inside to Hackney top of the area holds the ball up well looks to turn and strike, Amber Mayhew getting back for Stalham is their to close her down put in the tackle gets the ball clear. Russell into Leyer central the striker 25 yards out jinks left then right before striking the shot takes a deflection off Meale taking it wide for the corner kick.
Clarke recovers well from an initial poor kick out of her area not getting the height or distance on the ball it’s Hackney who wins the header 25 yards out knocking the ball back in towards the area Leyer is after it, Clarke to getting to the edge of her area to intercept the bouncing ball gets a strong fist on it to send it up field. Sprowston continue to have the momentum the ball with Pettifer left side put infield Smith on for Hutchin right side she takes on the shot from 20 yards out puts the ball into the side netting. Another switch for Sprowston Georgia Cushion coming on for Hackney.
Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell tackled by Stalham’s Vicki Lubbock
Hestitation between the Stalham centrebacks inside the box almost gifts Sprowston a 2nd goal as both leave it Hutchin steals in between them right of goal 10 yards out more brave goalkeeping from Clarke diving in at the attackers feet the shot blocked however the deflection sees the ball spin on towards goal, a Stalham defender gets back to hook the ball clear of the goal. Up the other end Cursons and Sophie Lubbock aren’t seeing much of the ball can make little impact in attack, the latter tries the flick on for Cursons 25 yards out, Cornwall reading it gets to the ball first to clear.
GOAL! Into the last 3 minutes of the 1st half and Sprowston double their lead. Attacking down the right plenty getting forwards again Stalham defending their box the cross is cut back inside towards Russell inside the D, uncharacteristically as has been the norm for 41 minutes Stalham don’t advance to close her down as Russell shifts the ball to her right to open up the angle and sends her shot curling wide of the diving Clarke into the back of the net 0-2.
GOAL! Straight from the restart Stalham lose possession of the ball it is sent forwards Leyer racing clear behind the home defence reaches the ball before Clarke racing out of her area can reach in the striker knocking the ball past the keeper and on into the empty net to make it 0-3 a hammer blow for Stalham just before the half-time whistle.
Sprowston Ladies, Victoria Leyer
Half-time Stalham Town Ladies 0-3 Sprowston Ladies
An excellent end to a dominant 1st half from Sprowston Ladies scoring inside the opening 7 minutes then 2 goals late in the half putting them in control. Have been able to push bodies forwards keeping Stalham pinned back inside their own half. The back four has worked hard for Stalham preventing crosses and players have gone with runners for the whole just unable to get the ball up to their own attackers to put their mark on the game. Two late goals a hammer blow especially the 3rd alot of work to do if they want to get back into the match 2nd half.
The wind has picked up noticeably and gotten a lot colder too, The sun lower in the sky too will be Stalham’s problem 2nd half. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway. Hutchin is off at the start of the 2nd half for the visitors Barnard now operating on the right in an advanced position with Jade Mundford at right back. Wright is back on in the centre for Stalham replacing Yarham. A quiet start to the 2nd half Burr-Walpole has taken a knock to the back and needs to come off, Yarham returned to the action.
Stalham Town Ladies, Kerry Wright tackled by Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell
Pettifer is upended looking to bring the ball through the middle a free kick at the top of the centre circle for Sprowston the centreback go forwards the ball delivered into Tink to the left of the D looks to turn is closely marked by O’Connor the ball won. Barnard is sent away on the right Bunstead going to ground tackles well preventing the cross. Pettifer bringing the ball on down the left this time puts an inviting cross into the six yard box, Leyer throws her head at the ball gets a touch Clarke at close range makes a great save to keep the ball out adjusting well as she’d started to move to her right a corner is awarded from the left the ball is cleared up field, Sophie Lubbock with Cursons get the ball up towards right corner of the box Lubbock with a hopefully cross no one fro Stalham in their to challenge for the ball.
GOAL! Mayhew has made some good forward runs early in the 2nd half for Stalham looking to win the ball higher up the pitch pressing on the left side over halfway wins the ball and brings it on taking it toward the byline holds it up well allowing teammates time to get forwards one of those being Vicki Lubbock getting into the area left of the six yard box, the angle is against her a Mayhew squeezes the pass into her feet the midfielder turns well and sweeps the ball up into the air across the face of goal to drop over the line at the far post 1-3.
Vicki Lubbock pulls it back to 3-1 for Stalham Town Ladies
The goal giving Stalham a little bit of confidence they get the possession of the ball from the restart Wright onto Bunstead picking out Mayhew finding space left side again driving on she fires her cross into the side netting. Sophie Lubbock has the ball takes on the shot from 25 yards out her low drive straight at Lightfoot the keeper gathering cleanly. With Mayhew and Vicki Lubbock getting forwards more Stalham look more of a threat.
GOAL! Just as the home side are starting to get some momentum in attack however Sprowston get up the other end and restore their 3 goal lead and great strike from Pettifer on the left as she picks up the ball and taking it on lets fly from 25 out her bouncing shot angling wide across the goalkeeper into the far corner for her 2nd of the game to make it 1-4.
Both Hackney and Hutchin return to the pitch for Sprowston. The visitors spring a counter attack from a Stalham corner the ball played long on the right for Hutchin to chase squares her cross along the top of the area Hackney positioned left of the D turns into the shot sees the strike angle away from the far post Clarke coming to gather. Megan Bonham comes for for Stalham. More changes for the home side with Wright and Meale coming off, Burr-Walpole back on along with striker Abbie Charlton.
A scooped shot from Hackney outside the area as the ball is worked into her from a throw on the left side, Clarke is right behind it the ball dropping safely into her gloves. Bunstead has had a sold game for Stalham at left back shoulder to shoulder with Hutchin as the winger looks to find a way in behind the cross is again denied.
GOAL! Sprowston further extend their lead this time Hutchin with the ball played into her on the right knocks it on for Leyer running in behind she plays the cross into the Stalham area is knocked outside into the path of Russell left of the D, 20 yards out she sends a thunderbolt racing into the back of the net to make it 1-5.
2 goals in the game for Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Russell
A fantastic save from Clarke keeps Stalham from going further behind the defence pushed up Leyer nips in to steal the ball runs on into the box, Clarke stays big inside her six yard box as the striker closes her down Leyer looks to slot the ball wide of the keeper instead plays it straight at Clarke who makes a great stop with her feet the ball deflected out to the left the goalkeeper rushes after it colliding with Pettifer, is down needs treatment but after a pause in play is okay to continue.
Sprowston get the ball forwards right side a viscous cross is whipped into the area, Clarke comes to punch is impeded by her own player misses it, drops for Pettifer far post to strike on the volley catches it wrong the ball screws wide away from goal. Into the latter stages of the game Sprowston in control of the ball the cross from the left into Hackney headed on for Hutchin to her right diverts the ball goalwards Clarke down smartly at her near post touches the ball wide for the corner.
Into stoppage time Sprowston with one last attack Hutchin on the right lays the ball on for Smith going past her her cross low into the box finds Hackney a turn and shot drags the ball wide of the near post.
Full time Stalham Town Ladies 1-5 Sprowston Ladies
A 5-1 win for Sprowston Ladies keeping up their unbeaten start to the season and seeing them stay top of Division One a point clear of Thorpe United Ladies who beat North Walsham Angels Ladies 3-1. A great performance from the visitors getting an early goal and dominating the ball for much of the game scoring 5 goals. A below par performance from Stalham defended well on the whole but pushed back by their opponents couldn’t get the ball into their attackers conceding 2 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half doing the damage going in at 1 nil or even 2 nil at the break might have made all the difference getting a goal back early 2nd half Sprowston were quick to respond. Nevertheless Stalham have enjoyed a good start to the season themselves and will loo to bounce back.
Women’s Football East – Player of the Match
Another tough one today to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a good all round team performance from Sprowston this afternoon, difficult conditions to play in scoring some quality goals and creating plenty of chances. Picking one out however I have gone for midfielder Rebecca Russell in the heart of the action not often giving the ball away and setting up attacks ahead of her two well taken goals to her name too.
Good to get back into it after a two week layoff even if it was freezing, better get used to that I suppose. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line ups today and Stalham for the cup of tea.
