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Match Report – Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v AFC Dunstable Women

Sunday 13th December

ERWFL Premier Division

  Finally back on the football trail this Sunday after five Sunday’s off. Lockdown 2.0 halting the playing season for a month, several sides returning to action last weekend albeit I was again unavailable having to wait another week so glad to be back this weekend, making a trip over to the Branch Brothers Stadium in Peterborough to watch Peterborough Norther Star Ladies v AFC Dunstable Women in the ERWFL Premier Division.

The Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division always a highly competitive league and this season proving to be no less the case. As Christmas fast approaches the 12 strong league is breaking into two clear halves with 6 sides looking strong challenging for top spot, Norfolk side Wymondham Town Ladies leading the way by 3 points. With their match called off away to Royston Town Women due to a water logged pitch it presents a great opportunity for 2nd placed Peterborough Norther Star Ladies.

 Todays hosts laying 2nd in the Premier Division table going into today’s game just 3 points behind the leaders and with one goal between them on goal difference too a win would see them go top for the first time this season. An established side at this level Peterborough Northern Star lost a few senior squad players in the close season but in return have brought in some good younger players used to playing with one another at Leicester aswell as securing the signature of Jessica Driscoll who was with FAWNL Southern Premier Division side MK Dons Women last season along with fans favourite Cassie Steward who is back playing after giving birth. Staring the season with a narrow 2-3defeat to Essex side Harlow Town Ladies then went on a 3 game winning streak before again suffering a narrow 2-1 loss to Wymondham. Returned from this latest lockdown with a 3-1 win away to Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. Steward and Driscoll between them have scored 16 goals so far this season (8 each)

AFC Dunstable Women came close to folding at the start of last season struggling for players it was touch and go for a while before bringing enough new faces in to begin the rebuilding process under manger Ashley Pead. Gaining promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division in 2014/15 season were pushing hard to catch up with Bedfordshire’s other to leading female sides Luton Town Ladies and Bedford Ladies. Now having to rebuild find themselves towards to bottom of the Premier Division however with 2 win from their 7 games so far are leading the pack in the bottom half and gaining confidence all the while. During pre-season Dunstable were mentioned more than once as a side that looked vastly improved. Have added to the squad recently bringing in experienced player Mollie Burgess from MK Dons Women, she makes her debut today. Has been quite a while since I’ve seen Dunstable play were still known as AFC Dunstable Ladies in fact. Chelsea Jeffery their top scorer so far with 5 goals in 8 games.

  The Branch Bros Stadium the venue for todays game. Knew it would be a wet one rain forecast and with a few games around them getting called off did wonder if this one would survive the pitch however seeing no standing water would be slick but playable. The food hut open to get a cup of tea much needed. Heavy rain before kick-off making for a wet warm up a little cover to be found around the ground. Dull and gloomy, a heavy shower prior to kick off the rain stilling as the teams came out risked heading into the open albeit donning my furry hat which I have finally managed to relocate to keep the ears warm all set.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Molly Bull, Samantha Davies, Larissa Frederick, Tilly Fantom, Chanade Henderson (C), Faith Horner, Jessica Driscoll, Katie Steward, Megan Breakwell, Jessica Price & Evie Driscoll-King. subs – Alexa Hunter, Amy Magnus, April Pearson & Olivia Smith.

AFC Dunstable Women starting XI – Nicole Raffermati, Louisa Sexton, Chloe Esposito, Mollie Burgess, Carrie Mancini, Gemma Darvill, Rachael Mumford, Louise McCay, Jodi McClelland, Lori Wilson-Phillips & Darcy Collins. subs – Hannah Ring, Shauna Smith, Rebecca Devereux & Chelsea Jeffrey.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Somehow I always manage to turn up at the Branch Bros Stadium when Cassie Steward isn’t playing and today is no less different, a chance for someone else up to. Peterborough to get the game underway kicking off the 1st half, wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts, along with black socks with white trim. Dunstable opposite lined up in an all blue kit. The ball played out to the right, knocked back inside for Jessica Driscoll she gets her head down and drives on with the ball three Dunstable players all converging on her to regain possession 25 yards out. Faith Horner quickly winning the ball in the midfield for Peterborough plays it right, Katie Stewards whipping in an early diagonal ball for Jessica Price to attack, Louise Sexton in well for Dunstable at the back to close her down and win the tackle 20 yards out. 

The hosts starting well getting hold of the ball inside the Dunstable half putting their opponents under pressure working the ball up the left side before Megan Breakwell’s cross angled in is seen safely into the side netting by Dunstable goalkeeper Nicole Raffermati who had her near post covered. A free kick given away in the middle of the park gives Dunstable a chance to relieve the early pressure they’ve been under played forwards down the right channel for Louise McCay to chase down does well to forces Peterborough into conceding a throw deep in their territory the visitors can’t capitalise however and Peterborough break quickly the ball fizzed forwards a good ball into the feet of Evie Driscoll-King controls it well before turning spotting Driscoll racing on plays the ball into her path sliding into the shot outside of the area the low ball runs on straight into Raffermati who drops onto the ball. 

  Peterborough are making good use of their wide players Breakwell left and Steward right offering got options. Breakwell this time out wide left angling a cross into the box defended well by Burgess her interception seeing the ball come left picked up by Chloe Esposito who sends it down the line for McCay bombing forwards into space, Peterborough captain Chanade Henderson at centre back getting across on the cover to charge in and clear the ball for a throw. Dunstable keep the ball inside their opponents half winning a corner on the left. A inswinging delivery the ball is dealt with by Henderson heading clear at the near post. The hosts break Steward away on the right wing into space, Burgess coming across sliding in with a no nonsense tackle to nullify the threat.

GOAL! 10 minutes on the clock and Peterborough open the scoring the hosts awarded a free kick wide on the left 30 yards out. Steward on the ball strikes it well going for goal the ball angling in has a great arc on it just enough to beat the keeper as she jumps for it dipping late to creep under the bar at the far post a nestle into the side netting 1-0.

Katie Steward’s fee-kick loops over the keeper to see the hosts take the lead

Conditions aren’t great very muddy out on the field passing difficult the ball bobbling the rain now returning Dunstable look to thread a ball through the middle the Peterborough defence passing it back to the keeper, Molly Bull spooning her clearance up into the air headed back to her by a defender, Bull almost loses it with Darcy Collins putting her under pressure for Dunstable top of the area, her catch not clean the keeper is able to pounce on the loose ball. Horner is busy in the middle of the park for Peterborough often the first to intercept as Dunstable look to feed it through the centre into heir attackers. 

  Steward advancing with the ball up the right wing flashes a squared cross into the six yard box cut out by Burgess to concede the corner kick. The delivery going long is reclaimed far side and fired back into the mix scrambled away Dunstable have a chance to counter attack the ball put on up top for Lori Wilson-Phillips to chase has plenty of pace, Larissa Frederick close enough to get to the ball first send it on into her area for her keeper to clear up field. 

Chloe Esposito gets in ahead of Katie Steward to defend for AFC Dunstable Women

Price I think with a shot clipped over from the top of the box as a clearance falls to her taking a nick off a Dunstable player a corner awarded. Steward playing the ball in from the right cleared back to her from inside the six yard box her 2nd attempt headed clear by Burgess. 

 GOAL! Peterborough extend their lead the ball kept in play on the left played on for Driscoll getting into an advanced position inside the box on the angle Raffermati coming to close her down gets her shot past the advancing keeper Driscoll-King sliding in unmarked centrally setting the ball over the line from close range to score 2-0.

  Dunstable look to get straight on the attack from the restart, captain Jodi McClelland in space on the left hitting the ball early her cross/shot angled dangerously across the top of the six yard box no one can get a touch on it to divert it towards goal. The visitors keep it in play Peterborough defence regrouping conceding a throw before preventing a cross coming in. 

 GOAL! Dunstable having committed numbers forwards are caught out at the back as Peterborough break quickly the ball fed into Driscoll-King racing clear on the left pace taking her on with the ball sends a diagonal ball into the area Steward having raced up the pitch from the right getting into the box free to met it inside the six yard box and send over the line for her 2nd of the game 3-0.

  2 goals in 2 minutes seeing Peterborough race into a 3-0 lead with less than 20 minutes gone. A free-kick for Dunstable inside the Peterborough half players forwards into the box as the delivery from the right is put into the area, Collins up well to get her head on the ball knocks it down from inside the six yard box to drop wide of the far post, the angle tight Sexton nevertheless attempts to square it back into the near post, Bull with an acrobatic safe diving to push the ball behind for a corner. Is a vicious delivery in from the left racing across the face of goal, frustration shown from Rachael Mumford at the far post as she comes close to getting a telling touch. 

  Peterborough continue to gain ground on the flanks winning a series of corner kicks left then right. Dunstable defending but unable to get it clear the pressure stays on Steward on the right sees another corner cleared back to her the ball played into the congested crowd inside the D, Driscoll gets hold of it bringing it down shifting it half a yard to her right opening up room for a shot gets her foot up over the ball to send it in towards goal, an excellent save from Raffermati is shifting across her line readjusts well getting a glove down to knock the ball down and smother it. 

  Tilly Fantom getting forwards with the ball for Peterborough sees her cross into the box go behind for a corner kick off Burgess. Pressure inside the six yard box as Steward plays it in cleared back to her a high ball in Raffermati up but spills it stabbed wide for another corner this time Mumford defends to send it clear for the visitors near post. Dunstable can’t retain the ball however and are getting a little disorganised at the back as Peterborough press the advantage. Alexa Hunter comes on for Peterborough. Esposito forwards as Dunstable win a throw on halfway left side plays it on into the box, Wilson-Phillips inside the area attacking it Frederick slides in strongly to put the ball out of play.

  Hunter fresh into the action has the ball at her feet on the right spins inside 20 yards out before lifting a dipping cross into the area for Peterborough, Driscoll meeting it centrally six yards out lifts her first time strike up onto the crossbar the rebound falling at the far post headed wide.

 GOAL! Isn’t long before Peterborough add another goal catching their opponents on the break once more the ball won at the ball played forwards with pace through the middle for Steward to chase in behind is clear to attack with Raffermati racing out to close her down Steward getting there just ahead of the keeper to stab it past her to score a 1st half hat-trick 4-0.

 37 minutes played Peterborough dominant for a large portion of the 1st period having control of the score line attacking with purpose stretching Dunstable at the back. The visitors on the back foot still prepared to commit players forwards Gemma Darvill spinning inside on the right playing a ball into Mumford who lays it forwards for Wilson-Phillips, who is quickly closed down by Fantom. Steward in particular causing problems out wide for Peterborough, Dunstable haven’t been able to get their wide players into the game at all. 

  Wilson-Phillips pace is the one thing troubling the Peterborough defence getting joy as she moves right her touch knocking it in behind the advancing keeper has Bull stranded at the top of her box as she attempts to get hold of the ball before it can run out of play wide of the near post sends it flashing across the face of an open goal, collected far side is fired back in , short of wearing a cape Bull flying in appears out of nowhere to send it behind for a corner kick.

 GOAL! From the set piece unstable pull a goal back have offered a threat from corners the initial ball cleared is collected by Esposito to launch a cross in from the top corner a great delivery into the six yard box comes perfectly for Mumford free at the far post to nod into the back of the net 4-1.

  Steward advances with the ball right side for Peterborough late on in the 1st half gets her side a corner. Plays in the ball is cleared by McClelland for Dunstable, can’t get the counter attack going conceding a free-kick on halfway, taken shot to Horner 40 yards out nevertheless goes for a audacious strike on goal lifting the ball in on target is collected safely by Raffermati. Devereux plays the ball on right side for Wilson-Phillips her pace taking her in behind the Peterborough defence flashes a cross in Bull at her near post making no mistake bringing it down safely, Collins closing in behind her ready to capitalise if she hadn’t.

  A good triangle inside the final third played between Wilson-Phillips, Devereux and finally Sexton as the visitors look to find a way into the box the attack broken up by Peterborough’s Fantom. Peterborough come forwards left side Driscoll on for Driscoll-King who sends it on further for Price breaking into the box her shot blocked by Burgess goes bend for another corner kick the ball headed long wide across the six yard box as the whistle blows.

Half-time Peterborough |Northern Star Ladies 4-1 AFC Dunstable Women

  A strong 1st half from Peterborough sees them leading 4-1 at the break, starting well opening the scoring inside 10 minutes 2 quickfire goals seeing the hosts 3-0 up inside 18 looked strong in attack particuarly on the flanks creating chances as Dunstable struggled to get a foothold in the game. The visitors kept pushing players on however and were always looking to score before Peterborough added a 4th late in the half. Dunstable grabbing a lifeline from a corner in the closing minutes giving them something to take into the 2nd period. You would think they would need an early goal to give them something if they wish to take anything from the game.

Chanade Henderson brings the ball away for Peterborough Northern Star

 The weather very dull and gloomy pictures on the camera unlikely in the 2nd half the rain clearing but getting decidedly chilly as the players return. Dunstable to get the 2nd half underway. Win a free-kick wide on the right early on as Darvill is shoved in the back trying to hold up the ball from a throw. Sexton not capitalising from the set-piece as Bull sees it safely wide. A scrappy start to the game has gotten a little physical, Wilson-Phillips through the middle now looks to get onto the end of a great pass through the middle from Mumford, Fathom across to put in the challenge send the ball away for a throw in. 

Out of no where Dunstable have a penalty!  A cross from the left put into the top of the area referee Andy Phillips spotting a handball everyone caught unaware it seems Dunstable surprised. Words have been exchanged a pause before the penalty is taken. The referee having words with Darvill. Wilson-Phillips to take goes for height looking to send it into the top corner, is agonisingly wide of the post missed.

  Despite all the attacking play offsides have be surprisingly rare this afternoon but one goes against Dunstable as Mumford’s long range past looks to send Wilson-Phillips in behind. It’s pretty muddy out there and it’s a great opportunity for a sliding challenge as a few players can’t resist on both sides, wouldn’t want to be the one washing that kit tomorrow. Dunstable have came out intent on attacking 2nd half Mumford backed up by McCay winning the ball centrally.

 GOAL! The visitors strong attacking start paying off as they pull a goal back get forwards well on the left players overloaded through the middle on of those Darvill clear into the box left side as the ball is rolled into her by Esposito, slides in on the keeper attempting to get to the ball as Bull advances trying to close down the angle the pair collide the ball loose past her players in blue shirts racing in McCay there to pounce and put the ball over the line 4-2.

   Dunstable pull a goal back 12 minutes into the 2nd half having committed players forwards, Bull is down injured and needs treatment however after a short spell the goalkeeper is able to continue. Peterborough having sat back a little at the start of the 2nd half are still a threat Steward put clear on the right dinks a ball into the box Price coming in can’t get a telling touch as Burgess gets close in on her. 

 Darvill with an ambitious effort at goal for Dunstable clips a ball goalwards as it falls to her a long way out Bull scrambling a cross her goal is forced to knock it wide for a corner. The visitors come forwards winning a corner on the right, Henderson defending near post her clearance across the area falling to Burgess far side 8 yards out swings a leg at it the shot screwed wide of the far post. Price comes off in attack for Peterborough.

  Davis with a ball in diagonally from the left for Driscoll is fouled 25 yards out central the free-kick given. Driscoll over it a low ball fired into the mix blocked before being scrambled away comes back to Driscoll who then sends her strike wide of the target. Collins goes down after a challenge is in some pain her ankle I think can’t continue for Dunstable needs to come off Chelsea Jeffrey on. Breakwell getting clear in behind on the left for Peterborough flashes a cross into the six yards box Raffermati down spills it Steward racing in from the right centrally arrives to smash it goalwards over the faintest of touches by the keeper as a corner is awarded. In from the left Henderson with the stooping header turning it goalwards near post, blocked the hosts appealing for handball, nothing given as Dunstable clear their lines. 

 Very dark now cloudy the floodlights coming on Mancini tackling to deny Driscoll as she goes beyond Driscoll-King in the middle for Peterborough. Mumford with another great pass forwards but frustration from the visitors shown as no one is able to get onto the end of it Henderson bringing it on for Peterborough. Steward in central into the box cant get a telling touch as a high cross is lifted in from the right. Rebecca Devereux comes on for Dunstable replacing Mancini with 20 minutes left to play.

 Raffermati getting up well to glove down a high ball from the right the ball loose inside the box however, Burgess puts in the block the ball spinning away for McClelland to clear high. Peterborough make another change April Pearson on for Breakwell. 

 GOAL! Out of nothing the goal of the game is scored. A beauty of a strike from Driscoll-King to extend Peterborough’s lead. The ball into her feet all of 30 yards out right of the D isn’t closed down she takes her chance striking the ball perfectly arrowing it in across the static keeper to make it 5-2.

  Dunstable respond with a double change McClelland and Esposito off with Sexton back on along with Shauna Smith. 

 GOAL! As soon as they’ve conceded a 5th goal however Dunstable a hit with a further hammer blow as Peterborough add another quickfire goal a superb ball from the middle out to Steward peeling away to the right side getting on into the area to send a shot low across the ground past the diving keeper into the bottom corner of the net 6-2.

  Frustration from Dunstable thier confidence taking a hit continue to battle Horner breaking up play in the middle before giving away a free-kick. McCay with the ball forwards defended by Frederick at the back. The hosts able to break Steward on the ball centrally carrying in forwards options to ahead of her and to the left opts to go for goal 30 yards out her effort drops wide of goal. 

 GOAL! Peterborough take the game totally by the scruff of the neck late on as they add a 3rd quick goal to hammer home the score line. The ball contested strongly in the middle, Steward now central in attack in moving into space taking advantage of a tiring defence as the ball is fed into her path left channel taking it on into the box shots on the angle Raffermati down looks to have it covered but to her agony the ball squirms under her to roll on into the goal beyond 7-2.

5 goals in the match for Peterborough Northern Star’s, Katie Steward

Despite being clearly frustrated at conceding three goals so late on Dunstable are still willing to give it a go getting on well on their left a diagonal ball fired into the area Bull drops well to hold onto the ball. Devereux on the right sends her pass on for Wilson-Phillips right side in the closing moments Horner coming across sliding in to play the ball out for a throw. Dunstable with on last effort attempt to get a cross into the box goes long as the final whistle blows.

Full Time Peterborough Norther Star Ladies 7-2 AFC Dunstable Women

  A 7-2 win for Peterborough Norther Star sees them go top of the ERWFL Premier Division. Started the game well on the attack taking an early lead creating chances and adding a further 2 goals in quick succession. Going 4-0 up Dunstable had few chances of their own but kept going and pulling a goal back late in the 1st half gave them something to take into the 2nd period. The Bedfordshire side starting well chances created getting bodies forwards, a missed penalty before getting it back to 4-2. Had it been 4-3 what then we’ll never now. Peterborough looked good going forwards and attacking created opportunities all game confident in her finishing after a first half hat-trick Steward fired in two more late goals to give her 5 for the match along with a superb strike from Driscoll-King to wrap up the 3 points a tough game at home to Luton Town Ladies to end 2020 next Sunday, whilst Dunstable head to Hertfordshire rivals Royston Town Women. A tough afternoon for the visitors in the finish no doubt a talented squad but early goals cost them leaving a mountain to climb still they fought back well and created chances off their own.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East  Player of the Match. A few performances to mention although the final decision is an easy one for a change. For Dunstable Mollie Burgess had a solid debut at the back making a number of important tackles  and blocks. In attack Lori Wilson-Phillips looked a threat her pace testing the Peterborough defence. For Peterborough Faith Horner was strong in the middle of the park. Jessica Driscoll making some great runs too. Molly Bull in goal with some vital saves. But with 5 goals in the match their and a fantastic 90 minutes all round the award this Sunday goes to Katie Steward took her chances well and created plenty.

  Good to be back at it if I was a little more rusty than I expected, enjoyed the game the ERWFL rarely disappoints. Have to say and I suspect it’s the same for alot of use spectators and players too those 90 minutes are about as normal as it gets in 2020, been a tough year nice to forget about those woes for a while. My thanks as always to both sides for the team details.

Match Report – Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Colney Heath Ladies

Sunday 8th September

ERWFL Premier Division

  A return trip to Peterborough this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier League with Peterborough Northern Star Ladies hosting early leaders Colney Heath Ladies. 

  The standard within the league improving year on year is highly competitive at this level and rarely disappoints in entertainment. Several sides have recruited well over the summer and could will be intriguing to find out who winds up on top. Both of today’s opponents enjoy a good relationship and support from within the wider club. 

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies moving across to join the ERWFL (Eastern Region Women’s Football League) last season having previously been with the East Midlands regional set-up. A strong outfit pushing towards the top of the league they were among the front runners early on before injuries and lack of numbers took their toll towards the end of the season. A need to recruit and strengthen the first team, they have brought in several new additions with the likes of Kayla Dortch, Kimberly Fairweather, Gabrielle Smith, Eleanor Spendelow and Leah Cudone coming in. The first team backed up by a Reserves side playing in a 13 strong Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership this season. A last gaps goal seeing them lose 3-2 at home to Luton Town Ladies on the opening day. Bounced back with a 3-0 win away to newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies last time out.

  Colney Heath Ladies have made a fantastic start to the season winning their opening two league games scoring 17 goals in the process to top the ERWFL Premier Division one of 3 sides still with a 100% record. A great performance in the Preliminary Round of the Women’s FA Cup last Sunday saw them win 3-1 away to fellow Premier Division side Bedford Ladies. Now entering their 3rd season playing at this level have consolidated well and will be looking to push on. A terrific start last season however they fell away badly losing their manager. Paul Gleeson coming in thing’s began to pick up towards the end of last season, have recruited over the summer too with the likes of Jordan Goddard, Rachel Spendlow, goalkeeper Amy Butler and Samaira Khan joining. 

  The Branch Bros Stadium, Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground to the northern end of the city easy to get to. Two large grass area with pitches either side of the main pitch overlooked by the bar and clubhouse on entry. A burger van open to serve hot food and drinks. The pitch with a thick covering of grass two small seated stands available either side of the dugouts. A pleasant day a few dark clouds around but no rain forecast keeping the temperature down, the sun bright when it does poke through.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson (C), Evie Driscoll-King, Samantha Davies, Kayla Dortch, Bronwyn Mulheron, Chanade Henderson, Gabrielle Smith, Leah Cudone, Katie Steward & Emma Pollard. Subs – Frances Peeling, Alexa Hunter, Kimberly Fairweather, Eleanor Spendelow & Georgia Coulson.

Colney Heath Ladies starting XI – Lucy Hancock, Samantha May, Catalina Costas, Annie Hickey, Kelly Glynn, Christina Freestone, Sheree Oliver (C), Samiara Khan, Adi Milton, Charlene Moreton & Rianne Townsend-Brown. Subs – Mel Godino & Rachel Sherlow.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Four of the 12 sides in the ERWFL Premier Division play in a black and white strip, Royston, St Ives Town and today’s opponents. Peterborough with home advantage wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and black and white hooped socks lining up as Colney Heath wearing an all blue away kit prepare to kick-off the match. Pressure from the hosts straight away forcing Colney Heath back towards their own box Katie Steward in to pinch the ball central sees it run on in behind Emma Pollard giving chase moving away from goal the angle against her as she gets her foot around the ball her attempt wide of the near post.

Emma Pollard looking to head the ball on for Peterborough

   Peterborough starting brightly Steward in possession on the right controls well before turning inside to fire a cross in along the six yard box no one attacking it central, goalkeeper Lucy Hancock able to gather at the far post. Christina Freestone on the ball central plays it out wide left for Samaira Khan, 5 goals for the winger since joining the club looks to take the ball on tackled by Peterborough’s Evie Driscoll-King the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly inside the Peterborough half attacker Charlene Moreton coming towards the ball heading it on over the top for Rianne Townsend-Brown she sends it wide to her right with Adi Milton looking to get inside her fullback, strong running into the box, goalkeeper and captain Sarah Hudson out well to close her down makes the blocking save at her feet. 

  Driscoll-King putting in a good tackle to deny Khan again on the wing sends a great all up the right for Steward to chase, gathering the ball takes it on before wrapping her foot around the ball to launch a cross into the area, Hancock up well to claim it. Both sides looking to turn the play around quickly Milton almost succeeds in playing Townsend-Brown through central with a well flighted diagonal pass, the striker halted however by a raised flag. 

Kayla Dortch

 Khan stays onside from a free-kick won on the left played forwards the winger squaring a pacey ball along the top of the area finds its way through to Milton far side meets it first time with the outside of her boot the shot in angling away from goal. Peterborough mount a quick attack of their own from front to back the ball through the middle almost has Steward in top of the area but Hancock out well just about does enough to thwart her as her defence recovers to clear the ball. 

Catalina Costas holding of Peterborough’s Katie Steward

  Chanade Henderson getting hold of the ball in the middle for Peterborough plays a great ball forwards for Steward to attack in behind shoulder to shoulder with full back Catalina Costas the Colney Heath defender doing well to get a toe to the ball before Steward to send it wide of goal, then a controversial decision by the referee in the visitors opinion as goalkeeper Hancock goes out towards the ball is warned not to pick it up but does, Colney Heath complaining it wasn’t a back pass an indirect free-kick awarded against them wide of goal near the edge of the six yard box. A crowded penalty area the intention to smash it across the face of goal the Colney Heath defence charge it down and clear successfully.

Peterborough Northern Star’s Chanade Henderson

  An entertaining opening to the match both sides lively, Colney Heath with the slower start coming into it more as captain Sheree Oliver plays the ball forwards to Milton on the right possession retained, a cross lifted into the box, Khan central rising a tall player, can only get a glancing header the ball over at the far post. A delay in play then as a dogs mess is discovered on the pitch, happens at this level now an again. The task of clearing it up usually the home side managers (although I doubt Emma Hayes had this dilemma at Stamford Bridge this afternoon) Dean Steward managing Peterborough armed with a plastic bag clearing up the offending item and play can resume. 

  The free-kick scheduled to take place nearby as Driscoll-King plays a fantastic ball into the box, Hancock in amongst bodies on the penalty spot with a good punch getting it away. Hancock reacting sharply again moments later as a defensive error puts Leah Cudone in behind on the left of attack into the box the goalkeeper rushing out to gather top of the area. Peterborough upping the tempo attacking with more urgency in the last five minutes get control of the ball inside their opponents half Gabrielle Smith showing fantastic close ball control threading a pass forwards for Cudone playing in in to attack the box central Hancock coming to close her down Cudone looks to place her shot wide of the advancing keeper, not enough however as Hancock throws out and arm to stop the ball. 

  Hancock quick to set up the counter attack the ball up to Milton a threat on the right plays the ball on for Townsend-Brown in behind, the defence caught static, Hudson comes out towards her top of the area right of the D, Townsend-Brown sending the ball past her as the pair collide, Kayla Dortch back by then on hand can clear the ball if needed by can see it safely behind only just mind. Neither side on top, both looking like they will find the opening goal Peterborough regain possession central Smith finding her pass again to see fullback Samantha May outnumbered left side of the area as Cudone and Pollard burst forwards the shot fired in across goal into the bottom corner, the goal though doesn’t stand the flag raised against the pair. 

Rianne Townsend-Brown looking to get in behind the Peterborough defence

  Costas has picked up an injury for Colney Heath the full back struggling can’t continue bringing the first change of the match with Rachel Spendlow joining at right back. Peterborough have a corner on the right the delivery short as Cudone spots makes a run towards the ball turning to shoot from 20 yards out her strike over the bar. A mix-up at the back inside the six yard box from the Colney Heath defence sees Cudone latch onto the ball attempting to turn right side to get a shot away the blocking tackle sees the ball cleared falling to Peterborough’s Faith Horner she shoots 25 yards out the ball safely handled straight into Hancock’s midriff.

   Colney Heath attack right Milton winning her side a corner kick the delivery in central headed clear Cudone bringing it away left play a quality pass on for Steward breaking forwards right channel, Sherlow back with her lunging in to make the tackle top of the area to take the ball away from the attacker. 

  GOAL! Half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Peterborough on the attack right side, Driscoll-King having made some good runs forwards previously allowed to go on bringing the ball inside from the top of the area hits it hard sending the ball angling in across the face of goal, finds its way past everyone to nestle into the back of the net 1-0. 

Evie Driscoll-King with the opening goal of the game

   A few robust tackles have been a feature of the first half, Freestone upended by Smith in the middle sees the Peterborough player warned. Peterborough enjoying the lions share of the attacking play now, Dortch’s defence clearance turning into a great ball forwards Steward after it looks to lay it off inside for Pollard to shoot, Annie Hickey reading it for Colney Heath the defender in to nick the ball and attempt to set up a counter attack, on to Freestone to Milton away on the right squares a cross in ear side Townsend-Brown going for it so too Dortch the defender sliding in to win the challenge inside the box. 

 Flowing football from Peterborough Henderson with Horner out to Steward right side a brilliant pass long in behind on the diagonal to pick out Cudone nipping into the box left, her first touch taking the ball out from her feet giving Hancock a chance to dive for it, grabbing it into her body Cudone hurdling over her. 

  GOAL! Out of nothing Colney Heath are back on level terms late in the first half. Milton who has carried a threat all through the first half doing well to win a corner on the right players forwards as Charlene Moreton goes across to take it, a fantastic inswinging delivery high, Hudson up for it near post misses the ball past her finds the underside of the ball to nestle into the back of the net 1-1.

Charlene Moreton scores direct from a corner to level the scores for Colney Heath

 The full back have swapped sides for Colney Heath, May over at left back now called into action to make a vital tackle inside the box as the ball is played on through the middle to send Steward away in attack the full back on her shoulder pushing her wide of goal lunging to make the tackle before Steward can unleash a shot. 

Katie Steward attacking for Peterborough Samantha May across to defend for Colney Heath

  GOAL! The game turned completely on its head then as moments after levelling the scores they break to score and take the lead. The ball left side lifted forwards a miscued defensive clearance seeing the ball fall in behind with Milton quickest on the right side latching onto it taking on the shot early from 25 yards out well struck Hudson with little chance as it flies over her into the back of the net 1-2.

  Finding themselves trailing with just a minute of the first half left Peterborough get on the attack good combination play between Driscoll-King and Steward on the right the cross played into the box Pollard right of the D, her effort blocked by Hickey. Peterborough closing the ball down with intensity with the half-time whistle imminent. 

 GOAL! Winning the ball inside the Colney Heath half their defence pushed up Dortch to Mulheron who plays a great ball forwards for Cudone to gather on the left the striker head down with one intent to get inside and take on the shot lets fly from the top of the area the ball angling in over the keeper into the top corner 2-2. The half-time whistle blows.

Leah Cudone scoring a superb equaliser to make it 2-2 on the stroke of half-time

Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

 An entertaining first half of football, plenty of action, played at a good pace, chances created, a splash of controversy into the mix. Peterborough started well and created opportunities. Colney Heath coming back into the game Both sides making use of their wide players, Peterborough taking a deserved lead, Colney Heath with a fortunate levelling goal but no doubt about their 2nd a quality strike from Milton, Peterborough responding well to level the scores before the break Cudone with a superb strike to make it 2-2. Beautifully poised for the 2nd half.  

The sun starting to poke through more towards the end of the first half now bright and facing the goal Peterborough are defending 2nd half as they get the game restarted. Both sides making a change at half-time Kimberly Fairweather on in place of Smith for Peterborough, Melissa Godino replaced Khan in the wing for Colney Heath. Cudone out on the right attacking sends a driven shot in towards the near post the ball held by Hancock closing the angle. 

  Oliver bringing the ball forwards for Colney Heath up the right into Milton she cuts infield before firing a cross in towards the top of the area met by Moreton her 1st time effort rising towards goal sails over the crossbar. Mulheron picking up the first yellow card of the game for an ungainly tackle on Milton looking to get on 20 yards out on the right. Freestone over the set-piece floated into the area, claimed well by Hudson. A lively start to the 2nd half both sides closing down the ball.

Christina Freestone winning the ball in midfield for Colney Heath

  Townsend-Brown caught just offside as Colney Heath play the ball on through the middle. Peterborough a little sloppy with their passes in the middle, Oliver getting hold of it up for Moreton, Mulheron in to win the ball back. Hancock is having an assured performance in goal for Colney Heath takes a confident catch high above her head as Cudone lifts a cross in from the right. 

Sheree Oliver playing the ball forwards

  A 2nd change for Peterborough with Georgia Coulson coming on for Davies. Peterborough get a corner on the right the delivery in towards the near side punched back to the taker by Hancock, crossed back in dropping in the six yard box, players attacking it none can get a clean strike on the ball, Hickey wining it with a no nonsense clearance. Steward out on the right bursts in behind Hancock coming to meet her one on one Steward jinks left the right attempting to deceive the keeper before trying to shoot across her, Hancock saving once more. 

Peterborough enjoying more of the attack more Colney Heath happy to sit ready to hit on the counter. Oliver bringing it out on for Townsend-Brown, Milton the outlet ready to go on the right, Coulson intercepting the pass for Peterborough. Hancock continues to thwart the Peterborough attack again Cudone clever is through into the box looking to take the ball around the keeper, Hancock down to pinch the ball. Pollard lines up a strike from 20 yards her attempt drilled wide. Fairweather comes off for Peterborough on comes Alexa Hunter. Milton off for Colney Heath, Khan returning with Godino moving to the right. 

Bronwyn Mulheron

  Henderson allowed to travel with the ball 20 yards out goes to pull the trigger Hickey running out to close her down making the block. Into the final 20 minutes the game remains there for the taking. Pollard carries the attack on the right for Peterborough, May holding her up, Cudone joining in support the pair win a corner. The ball in cleared by Hickey, her header falling to Steward 25 yards out does connect with the shot lacks the pace to trouble Hancock. 

Kelly Glynn holding off Leah Cudone

  Colney Heath’s defence the busier a determination amongst them not to concede, Glynn clearing as Hunter almost feds Pollard into the box making a run left channel. Pollard’s last actin of the game as she comes off now to be replaced by Eleanor Spendelow. Cudone looking the most likely to score as she makes another purposeful run on the right her shot fired in low Hancock down to save the ball loose however in front of her Peterborough slow to follow-up as Colney Heath scramble it away. Cudone taking the ball on to the byline right side lifting a cross in central evading Hancock this time, Spendlow jumping in the middle can’t keep her header down. 

Samaira Khan tracking Frances Horner as she brings the ball on for Peterborough

  Mulheron sending a fine pass forwards for Steward breaking right of the D takes aim the ball on target can only pick out Hancock back on her line, The game entering the final five minutes, Colney Heath working hard in defence keen to remain unbeaten allow Peterborough to come on. Coulson playing the ball on for Hunter to release Henderson central, Hickey stepping out of the back line to defend for Colney Heath. Another change for Colney Heath, Coulson departing… Frances Peeling on. 

  Peterborough winning a couple of free-kicks on the right late on Cudone on the first, Hancock claiming. The 2nd taken by Steward with Horner coming for it, Hickey dealing with the threat for the visitors. Moments left Peterborough attacking late on Henderson off a throw left crossing along the top of the area Hunter touching it into the path of the advancing Driscoll-King smashes a ball in towards goal deflected central Spendlow central wrong footed adjusts well to get her head on it turn it back towards goal Hancock across at her left post to save.

Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Colney Heath Ladies

  The points shared in an entertaining game, all action from start to finish. No more goals added 2nd half but not for want of trying from Peterborough pushed hard in the 2nd half Colney Heath putting in a solid defensive display thwarting them. Little in attack from the visitors in the 2nd 45 did invite pressure but maintain their unbeaten start to the season with a few players out. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match 

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award not an easy one once again a few contenders certainly. Adi Milton carrying a threat on the right for Colney Heath especially first half scoring a fantastic goal. Lucy Hancock with a confident display in goal reading the game well. For Peterborough, Evie Driscoll-King with good defensive work at full back getting forwards well to linking with Katie Steward. Edging it though Leah Cudone attacking for Peterborough brings a wealth of experience to the side making forceful and clever runs on and off the ball creating chances and always looking to score. Took her goal beautifully. 

An enjoyable trip to Peterborough, the ERWFL Premier Division producing yet another entertaining game full of excitement. Competitive from the 1st minute. My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams always appreciated. 5 games into the season already can’t believe it.

 

Match Report – Peterborough Northern Star Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

Sunday 24th February

ERWFL Premier Division

West along the A47 this Sunday afternoon for a game from the ERWFL Premier Division, 4th versus 5th with Wymondham Town Ladies travelling to play Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Both side new to the league this season, Peterborough Northern Star moving across from the East Midlands Regional Premier Division. Wymondham Town Ladies promoted as ERWFL Division One North Champions.

   Peterborough Northern Star Ladies now a fully integrated part of Peterborough Northern Star FC. One of the leading sides in Peterborough which has a very strong and growing women’s football scene. A new Reserves side into their 2nd season. A new challenge moving across the play in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL). Amongst the sides likely to challenge for the title itself before the season started have plated as high as the FAWNL. Currently in 5th have games in hand on the sides above. Have lost just one league game to date that on the opening day to current leaders and unbeaten Cambridge City Ladies.

   Wymondham Town Ladies are doing very well following promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division. Up to 4th in the table and in a strong position to finish in the top half of the table in what is a strong league. Like their opponents have a Reserves side, and are one of the sides leading the way in women’s football in Norfolk. Scoring plenty of goals, 18-year-old Laura Nicholls has 34 already this season.

  Both sides involved in the semi-finals of their various County Cup competitions last Sunday. Peterborough Northern Star narrowly losing to local rivals Peterborough United 2-1. Wymondham going all the way to penalties against fellow Premier Division side Acle United Women winning the shootout 5-4 to reach their 3rd successive final and will be hoping to retain the trophy they lifted for the 1st time in their history last season.

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies home ground is the Branch Bros Stadium. Situated in the north of Peterborough not far off the A47 itself. Set in a residential area has a community feel about it. A clubhouse leading out to the main pitch, two large sports fields either side. A snack bar serving hot and cold food and drinks. as for the weather SUMMER’S HERE! (Well in might be a bit premature) a lovely bright sunny and warm day in the final weekend of February. The coat can stay in the car, left my sunglasses at home needed them. The sun high over one end of the ground.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Frances Peeling, Larissa Frederick, Leah Barnes, Bronwyn Mulheron, Faith Horner, Emma Pollard, Chanade Henderson, Vicky Gallagher (C), Georgia Coulson & Cassie Steward.

Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI – Ashleigh O’Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Chardonnay Johnston, Summer Ward, Kayleigh Holloway, Rachel Cossey (C), Alice Ladbrooke, Mollie O’Callaghan, Laura Nicholls & Hannah Waters.  Subs – Jorja Patterson & Rebecca Russell.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   The bare 11 available for Peterborough missing a few players including top goalscorer Katie Steward who has 15 so far this season. New signing Summer Ward and Chardonnay Johnston starting for Wymondham. Peterborough in their home strip, black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. Wymondham in their away colours, purple shirts and socks with red shorts. Peterborough to kick-off the 1st half, Wymondham with the sun at their backs.

   Straight away a competitive tussle in midfield the ball closed down, Alice Ladbrooke winning it for Wymondham the ball lost comes back to Emma Pollard for Peterborough central plays the diagonal pass long for captain Vicky Gallagher to attack on the right wing, Chardonnay Johnston can see it out of play for Wymondham. Wymondham make progress up the right Kayleigh Holloway winning a throw put inside pushed on to Ladbrooke she flicks the ball on into the area, Bronwyn Mulheron heading clear for Peterborough. 

Leah Newcombe after the ball for Wymondham Town Ladies

   Mulheron defending well again for Peterborough as Hannah Waters tries to get through into the area from a central pass the defender seeing the ball back to goalkeeper Sarah Hudson. Wymondham counter Ladbrooke winning the ball plays it on for Laura Nicholls central she lays it out to Holloway right, Larissa Frederick closing her down the fullback tackling the ball out for a throw. Peterborough attack with pace through the middle, Bethany Fretwell with a vital interception as Cassie Steward looks to run in behind. 

  Mulheron winning the ball at the back for Peterborough the ball long up the left wing for Georgia Coulson drives forwards wins a throw the ball inside to Pollard 25 yards out plays it across the face of the Wymondham area with Chanade Henderson picking it up moving across the D shapes to shoot, Johnston charging the ball down. The final ball a little too heavy from both sides early on, Wymondham get up the pitch a throw won players forwards the ball 25 yards out helped onto Mollie O’Callaghan the young midfielder drags her shot wide across goal.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Bronwyn Mulheron

   O’Callaghan sets up a Wymondham attack her past forwards Nicholls spreads play wide to the right she drives up the line gets inside the fullback to fire a cross into the six yard box Nicholls arriving far post connects but can’t keep the ball down. Peterborough break with pace the ball with Pollard 20 yards out inside to Henderson she attempts to slide Coulson through into the area Ashleigh O’Callaghan in the Wymondham goal out smartly to make the save with her legs. 

Georgia Coulson with the ball for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

  Both sides looking to spread the play not afraid to go from one side of the park to the other in their build up play. Wymondham have the ball left Ladbrooke on for Mollie O’Callaghan the pass swept out to Summer Ward breaking on the left the wing back getting into the box puts her shot straight into Hudson covering her near post. Holloway on the ball right breaks it in puts the ball inside to Waters she turns sends it on for Nicholls 20 yards out her first time effort looping up towards goal, doesn’t have the carry to trouble Hudson as she takes the catch. 

Peterborough’s Larissa Frederick with Wymondham’s Kayleigh Holloway

 Steward influential on the ball inside the Wymondham half looking for runners to get in ahead of her attempts a ball out to the right for Gallagher too much on it the keeper can claim. Steward gathering the ball into her feet on the left cuts inside driving towards the area takes on the shot her attempt blocked. Henderson with a good forwards ball into Coulson coming in from the left Fretwell defends for the visitors. 

Cassie Steward lining up a shot

 A free-kick on halfway for Wymondham as Ladbrooke is upended. Fretwell to play the ball in towards the top of the area over Waters central, Rachel Cossey making a good run gets her head onto the ball, the Wymondham captains looping header in on target safely caught by Hudson. Steward drives on down the right wing cutting inside into the box fires a rocket in low towards the near post o’Callaghan making a fantastic save with her legs, Steward tries to get onto the end of the follow up the ball behind for a goal kick. 

 Nicholls gets the ball out to Holloway on the right coming inside into the area Hudson coming to close the angle saves with her feet the ball loose, Holloway after it between Hudson and Frederick the ball is cleared for Peterborough. A throw on the right Wymondham pressing get hit on the counter the ball wide out to Steward left by the touchline does enough to get the ball beyond Fretwell, Pollard taking it on drives inside, Ladbrooke tracking back does well to regain possession for Wymondham. 

Emma Pollard with the ball for Peterborough

  Waters comes close to opening the scores for Wymondham, the visiting side attacking right Holloway on for Nicholls moving into the channel. her pass finding Waters closing in on the area in behind central, Hudson out to the top of her area Water looks to take it around her the keeper diving at full stretch managing to get her gloves to the ball, momentarily, Waters is still with it an open goal to aim at shots the ball running narrowly wide across the goal. 

  Wymondham looking strong as the first half draws to a close Peterborough a little frustrated passes not coming off as intended. A few niggly challenges out there. O’Callaghan is brought down very close to being a penalty right on the line left of the Peterborough goal. O’Callaghan picks herself up to take a dinked effort in on goal the ball landing on the top of the crossbar. 

Wymondham Town Ladies, Mollie O’Callaghan

  Holloway on the right delivers a high swerving ball into the area Ward far side attempts to cushion a header down back across the six yard box for Waters, Hudson nipping in before her gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Frederick gets forwards for Peterborough plays the past on into Steward she turns well to get in behind Fretwell into the area shoots, O’Callaghan saving well with her legs once again to deny her. 

Half-time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 0-0 Wymondham Town Ladies

  Goalless at the break, both sides with chances to open the scoring, Waters for Wymondham. Ashleigh O’Callaghan twice denying Steward. The final ball rushed at times a committed tussle in the middle, Wymondham using their wing backs well. More clinical finishing needed 2nd half if either side is going to get their noses in front. 

Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey with Peterborough’s Chanade Henderson

  Wymondham with a change at half-time Mollie O’Callaghan the player off on comes Rebecca Russell. Peterborough to get the 2nd half underway the ball played out to Pollard on the right  she gets forwards as space opens up before her O’Callaghan out to the corner of her box gets down to claim the ball. Steward in a good position back to goal 20 out left of the D sees the ball int her feet does fantastically well to send the ball on into the box for Coulson bursting in behind from the left she shoots early the ball held by O’Callaghan at her near post. Cossey with the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham out to Ward on the left she pushes on delivering a cross into the area Mulheron up to head clear for Peterborough. 

 GOAL! 5 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken. Wymondham win a corner on the left the ball cleared inside the box comes out to Steward left she takes the ball on over halfway Pollard is bursting on through the middle to get ahead of her the two combine Steward into Pollard she plays it out to Steward on the left wing in an advanced position she shoots from the angle plenty of power behind the ball in races past O’Callaghan to nestle in the back of the net 1-0.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Cassie Steward

   Wymondham look to get forwards Russell on for Waters outside the area she turns into traffic Leah Barnes and Faith Horner closing her down to win the ball back. Frances Peeling closes Ward down as Ladbrooke wins the ball in the middle looks to spread the play. 

  GOAL! Peterborough build on their lead quickly making it 2-0 the goal starting with Henderson pressing high in the middle winning the ball her pass finding Pollard in space on the right 25 yards out plays it back infield into Steward central she does well 20 yards out back to goal to shift the ball beat her marker and turn and strike a shot back across the goalkeeper into the back of the net to make it 2-0 with a clinical finish.

  Wymondham make a change Jorja Patterson coming on in the place of Ward. The move sees Holloway come over to the left. Coulson attacking down the left swings a cross into the area Fretwell clears for Wymondham. The Norfolk side break the ball played on over the top with Nicholls breaking in behind right of goal takes the shot on early her attempt fired wide of the right post. Holloway on the left gets in behind drives to the byline cuts the ball back for Nicholls she tries to pick out Waters central Barnes charges her shot down.

  You’ll see it all the time in a game a winger trying to get in behind their marker the two shoulder to shoulder, Coulson on the left ends up on the ground play continues but is soon halted the Peterborough player clearly in a lot of pain. A serious injury suffered has landed on a snapped her wrist. A lengthy and necessary pause in play follows as she receives on the field treatment can’t be moved too quickly. Not nice to witness, the football doesn’t matter in these moments. Needs to go to A&E and of course with no subs Peterborough will continue with 10. Coulson up to her feet in carefully guided off the pitch.

  Almost half an hour delay before play resumes difficult now for both sides Peterborough needing regroup, Wymondham were on the back foot need to gather themselves too. Play a little disjointed at the resumption. Steward tries to release Pollard on the right, Johnston gets back on her to defend for Wymondham. Mulheron defends as Waters central tries to spin off her into the box. Ladbrooke is winning alot of tackles in the middle for Wymondham breaking up Peterborough’s momentum. 

Mollie O’Callaghan with Peterborough’s Faith Horner

  Nicholls is fouled 35 yards out in a central position, Fretwell to take a floated ball into the area, Hudson calls and lays claim to it. Hudson is then out to the top of her area to smother the ball as Waters attempts to run in behind through the middle. Johnston cuts out a pass a Henderson tries to play Gallagher in through the middle the rebound comes out to Steward 30 yards out left meets it on the volley her attempt wide of the mark.

Peterborough Northern Star Ladies, Chanade Henderson

   Fretwell does well under pressure from Steward through the middle to nod the ball back into her keepers gloves as Horner plays the ball forwards. Johnston on for Holloway ahead of her left side she drives forwards cuts inside shooting from 25 yards out Hudson making the save at her near post. Pollard wins the ball with a good challenge on the right plays it across the face of the area to Gallagher she puts it through the back line for Steward, she shots a hard driven ball but the flag is up it won’t count. Wymondham make a change Cossey the player off back on O’Callaghan.

   Barnes with the tackle to deny Holloway after Ladbrooke regains possession in the middle for Wymondham. A free-kick wide on the right for Peterborough the ball put into the area by Steward an inviting cross, O’Callaghan with a good catch not put off by Henderson closing her down. Counter attacking play from both sides Peterborough not interested on sitting on their 2-0 lead, Steward forwards, O’Callaghan winning it back for Wymondham pushed in with Nicholls finding space in behind closing in on the area, Hudson out to close her down the shot put past the advancing keeper, but so to the goal beyond. 

    GOAL!  Wymondham pull a goal back have the ball on the right side Waters driving on is tackled outside the area the ball loose O’Callaghan up in support first to it plays it inside to Nicholls top of the box she takes on the shot first time putting the ball into the back of the net across the goalkeeper 2-1.

Laura Nicholls pulls it back to 2-1 for Wymondham

  10 minutes or so left, Henderson and Gallagher look to combine for Peterborough through the middle. Newcombe defends for Wymondham. Gallagher gets up into the corner looks to hold play up Wymondham get the goal kick.

  GOAL! The scores are levelled Wymondham win a penalty kick as Waters carrying the ball in behind on the right is pulled down inside the area the referee pointing to the spot. Nicholls with the ball tacked under her arm the taker. The sun low behind the ground now the goal covered in shade she opts for power, Hudson guessing right dives but the ball is beyond her Nicholls with her 2nd of the game scoring the equaliser 2-2. 

  Peterborough straight on the attack after the restart the ball from Steward on for Henderson getting into an advanced position Fretwell doing well tackling to deny the chance. Gallagher yellow carded for a high foot that catches Newcombe in the face as both go for the ball, looked ugly but Gallagher did try to pull out as she released the ball wasn’t there to be won. Newcombe needs treatment on the pitch another pause in play she needs to come off Cossey returning to the action.

Wymondham Town Ladies. Alice Ladbrooke

 Into the last 5 minutes… a free kick to Wymondham, Fretwell with the long ball into the area Nicholls interested, Hudson though can claim it. Ladbrooke closing down breaks up anther Peterborough attack. Waters chasing the ball to the byline on the right wing cuts the ball back in across the face of goal Holloway at the far post, Peeling in ahead of her cuts out the threat for Peterborough. 

  Peterborough press forwards Henderson central to Gallagher her shot from 25 yards out is half blocked by Fretwell the sting taken out of it O’Callaghan gets hold of it. Steward halfway on for Henderson, has Peeling breaking up the right wing her cross in cut out by Johnston.

Full time Peterborough Northern Star Ladies 2-2 Wymondham Town Ladies

 The full time whistle blows and the points are shared Wymondham coming back from 2 goals down to level the scores. An action packed 2nd half. Peterborough starting well two well taken goals from Steward putting them 2-0 up. Injury to Coulson seeing a long delay and the hosts down to 10 with no subs to bring on. Wymondham coming back into it to get themselves a point. A tough result for Peterborough in a good position at 2-0 with 11 on the pitch may well have added more as Wymondham pressed. The visitors had to work had against 10 for the point nevertheless. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a committed tussle especially in the middle a few contenders out there and as are my rules can pick one and one only. Cassie Steward was influential in the final third and scored two great goals. Chanade Henderson also with some driving runs through the middle. Today’s award however goes to Wymondham’s Alice Ladbrooke had a very strong game in the middle of the park, breaking up attacks and protecting the defence, tracking back and timing of her tackles was superb.

  Enjoyed my first trip to the Branch Bros Stadium, sure the weather helped. The ERWFL rarely fails to deliver good footballing fare and today was no exception. Tinged with sadness of course to the serious injury to Peterborough winger Georgia Coulson, can only express my best wishes to her for a full and speedy recovery. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line-ups always appreciated.

 

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from the FA Women’s Cup. 64 ties across the country in 3rd Round Qualifying. Travelled down to Cambridgeshire to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies take on Peterborough Northern Star Ladies for a place in the next round.

Match Report – Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 
It’s another FA Women’s Cup weekend plenty of mouth watering ties out there in 3rd Round Qualifying as the FAWPL Division One sides enter the competition, 64 games in all. This Sunday the Supporting Women’s Football Blog travels to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Histon Ladies are a new name to women’s football this season however they are an established club in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) playing in the Premier Division previously known as Great Shelford Ladies they are one of the leading women’s football sides in Cambridgeshire. Merging with Histon FC to better strengthen the future longevity of the club as Histon have a girls youth set-up that can now progress into women’s football within the club.Play their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium in Histon just off the A14 north of Cambridge. Were away to Northamptonshire side Moulton Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women’s Cup won the game 5-2 to set up a home tie against Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies having been relegated from FAWPL Midlands Division One last season are back in the East Midlands Region Women’s Football League (EMWFL) playing in the Premier Division are looking to bounce back up at the 1st attempt have started the season well 2nd in the table from 4 wins out of 4. Today’s away trip their 1st action in this season’s FA Women’s Cup after they were awarded a walk over in the previous round.

  Histon FC’s, Glassworld Stadium the venue for today’s match, a good sized stadium with a large main stand housing the bar over looking one side of the pitch plenty of covered seating, with covered areas running along all sides of the pitch. A large pitch, not the flattest a good covering of grass. A few dark clouds overhead threatening rain later in the afternoon at kick-off the ground was bathed in warm sunshine.

 Histon Ladies starting XI – Helen Slipper, Abigail Davies, Lucy Julian, Claire Andrews, Alison Wright, Clare Creek, Sophie Lanham, Katie Saunders (C), Sophie Ugur, Jordanne Sillitoe & Sophie Hopkin.
 subs – Stacey Roper, Charlotte Westrope & Amanda Binge.

 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI – Sarah Hudson, Jodie Bartle (C), Larissa Frederick, Samara Iredale, Deva Rawlings, Chanade Henderson, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Katie Steward, Donna Nicholls, Cassie Steward & Vicky Gallagher.
 subs –



   Due to a good number of their players being unable for the fixture Peterborough North Star Ladies had the bare 11 available today. It’s the visitors to kick-off the 1st half of this FA Women’s Cup tie, wearing white shirts, red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The sun bright when is comes out from behind the clouds posing a potential problem for the Peterborough defence. Win the ball at the back and play it forwards quickly sending a pass long to Cassie Steward peeling out into space on the right, flashes a cross into the Histon area goes long gathered by Donna Nicholls on the left outside the box rolls it inside for Vicky Gallagher her shot is deflected behind for the 1st corner of the game.

   Good start by Peterborough, Cassie Steward moving across the front of the Histon area looking to receive the ball, moves to the left as Chanade Henderson plays the ball forwards, turning inside as she reaches the top of the area Steward attempts to roll the ball across into Gallagher, Histon centre back Claire Andrews makes a timely interception. The home side are awarded a free-kick on halfway left side the ball played up the line is helped on coming into Jordanne Sillitoe outside the Peterborough box left corner hits the shot on the turn, is blocked at close quarters.

  Sophie Ugur on the left side of attack for Histon wins the ball inside her half and brings it forwards, travelling down the line, Peterborough captain, Jodie Bartle looks to push her wide, Ugur manages to check her run turn inside bearing down on the area closely marked tries to play the ball in behind for Sillitoe coming into the area from the right side, the pass is too close to goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson who has moved off her line and gathers. 

Histon Ladies, Sophie Ugur

  Both sides looking to release their attacking players early, Peterborough win a throw on the right as the ball is lifted up into the Histon box. Coming down the line the ball is lifted into the area by Katie Steward, Alison Wright at the back for Histon hooks the ball away to safety. Pushing into the Peterborough half the ball pings around between the midfield players before Sophie Lanham gets her foot on the ball very nearly releases Sophie Hopkin in round the back of the visitors defence, Samara Iredale stretching gets in the path of the ball.

  Breaking up a Peterborough attack, Lucy Julian clears the ball long, the attempted header to clear it at the back for the visitors only succeeds in glancing it on with Sillitoe capitalising racing in behind to bear down on the area. The Peterborough defence recovers well to make up the ground pressure Sillitoe as she reaches the D right side manages to get a shot away, lacking pace it nevertheless beats the advancing Hudson, turns to see the ball roll a foot wide of the post.

  Peterborough push forwards, ex-Lynn Ladies player Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse in the middle battling to win possession of the ball in the middle pushes the ball on for Cassie Steward is tackled outside the box by Claire Creek as she lines up a shot from outside the box. Gallagher has a pop at goal from distance as a clearance runs back to her 40 yards out left side the ball turning away from the target out for a goal-kick. The ball is won back by the visitors from the goal-kick Hopkins-Duckhouse out to Katie Steward on the right squares a cross into the six yard box turned behind for a corner. The corner is cleared near post outside the area Histon give away a free-kick.

Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the ball for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 In front of the D, a good position to shoot from, Gallagher is over the ball for Peterborough, lifts the ball around the wall sending it in on target comes at goalkeeper Katie Slipper at chest height makes the save pushing the ball away to her left conceding a throw. Peterborough are seeing more of the ball as the 1st half reaches the midway point, Larissa Frederick breaks up a Histon attack on the right plays the ball into Henderson in the middle lays it back to Iredale who plays the ball long up field to Cassie Steward moving into space on the right side, takes the ball on into the area shoots as Slipper starts to come the keeper makes the save the ball blocked deflected behind for the corner kick. the corner from the right is fizzed in low towards Bartle moving towards it top of the area, hits the shot as it runs onto her boot turns it towards goal lands in the side netting. 

  Hopkins-Duckhouse gets the ball out to Gallagher on the left side the striker driving up the line with the ball turns in field reaching the edge of the area pulls the trigger shooting near post, Slipper gets down in an attempt to stop it, a loud thump as the ball cannons off the base of the post. Gallagher is then caught offside as Frederick sends the ball out of the back as she tackles Sillitoe. Lanham in midfield for Histon sends the ball over the top putting Hopkin in behind, Bartle gets back with her shoulder to shoulder as they reach to top of the area the defender getting a toe on the ball to push it back to her keeper. 

 Deva Rawlings brings the ball on through the middle for Peterborough plays in on for Henderson who looks to put Cassie Steward through on goal, Wright closes her down tackling to put the ball out for a throw on the right. Lanham looks to release Ugur on the left side for Histon into the visitors half Bartle gets across to make the tackle upends Ugur, gets enough of the ball however in runs long out for a corner kick. Histon captain, Katie Saunders to take the corner kick a good delivery flashed across the Peterborough six yard box, Sillitoe rising far post can’t get anything on the ball. 

Peterborough’s Deva Rawlings with Histon’s Katie Saunders

  Counter attack from Peterborough the ball played up to Henderson on the halfway line on the left side holds the ball up well as her teammates bomb forwards, pushing in field plays the ball central to Gallagher she helps it on for Katie Steward to her right 25 yards out right of goal Steward goes for goal hitting an vicious ball in swerves in the air slightly taking it away from Slipper diving across her goal, smashes against the post and rebounds across the six yard box, Gallagher coming in on the follow up can’t get a touch on the ball as it flies across her, Abigail Davies sends it clear of the Histon area.

 

  Saunders plays the ball forwards for Histon, Hopkin up top gives chase is pushed wide as she retains possession of the ball taking it into the left corner has Ugur available up the line passing the ball to her looks to travel inside with the ball, is brought down the free-kick given away. Lanham over the set-piece 25 yards out to the left of the box, gets the ball up into the air on target, Hudson shifting across her goal is able to get behind the shot and gather into her body.

Sophie Lanham sends watches her free-kick fly in towards the Peterborough goal.

  Peterborough have Henderson on the ball the middle holds the ball up back to goal before turn cleverly and threading the ball in behind for Gallagher to run onto unleashes a shot early outside the box left of the D, comes at Slipper quickly a good reactive save with her feet to stop the shot is deflected back out of the area into the D with Cassie Steward running onto it, intending to hit it hard, does so, Wright throwing herself in front of the attacker blocks the shot sending it out for a throw on the right as the game moves into 1st half injury time.

 GOAL! From the throw-in Peterborough take the lead netting right on the stroke of half-time. Cassie and Katie Steward combine on that side of the pitch to work the ball on down the right wing the cross is fired into the six yard box running in with pace along the ground, Gallagher is well positioned in the middle leaning back as the ball runs onto her boot turns it into the back of the net to give the visitors the lead 0-1.

Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies
 Right on the stroke of half-time Peterborough get themselves in front, have had the better of the attack, striking the woodwork twice. The goal a blow for Histon late in the 1st half denting the confidence having battled to keep it to 0-0 for so long. A narrow advantage at the break the next goal could well be a crucial one. Histon, once Creek emerges from the tunnel have kick-off 2nd half looking to get back on level terms.
 An early counter 2nd half for Peterborough as they win possession of the ball in the middle, Rawlings on for Cassie Steward who has made a run to get clear of the Histon defence right of goal, bearing down on the box is closed down, shoots as she is challenged falling back doesn’t get much power behind the shot runs safely through to Slipper inside her six yard box. 
 Sillitoe is fouled on the right as she takes the ball on inside the Peterborough half. Saunders on the ball sends it long into the box aiming near post the attempted defensive clearance sends the ball on across the six yard box Iredale rises far side to head the ball out of the area, falls to Ugur outside the box attempts to flight the ball back in her effort lands on the roof of the net.
  A powerful run on the ball down the right for Peterborough’s Katie Steward sends it on for Cassie Steward who whips a curling cross into the Histon area, Wright just about gets something on the ball backpedalling with Gallagher coming in central, runs on across the area, Davies tries to push it further wide, runs to Nicholls left side in the box, hits the shot in towards goal, Davies blocks it the ball spinning wide across the face of goal for a corner kick. The corner from the right side is played in deep to the top of the area, Iredale gets up well to head the ball on target bouncing down is knocked away from goal by Hopkins-Duckhouse inside the six yard box in front of the keeper as she attempts to help it on into the back of the net.
Katie Steward battles with Histon’s Sophie Ugur for the ball
  The ball is played up the right side by Davies at the back for Histon looking to pick out Sillitoe on the wing, Frederick gets across her to play the ball out for the throw, take quickly the ball is played inside into Sillitoe outside the box on the right, flicks the ball up and hits the shot on the turn lifting the ball up into the air lands on the roof of the net. 
Histon Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe with, Peterborough’s Larissa Frederick
  Rawlings on the ball for Peterborough passes on to Hopkins-Duckhouse, breaking forwards with pace she sends the ball forwards into the area on for Gallagher central, the challenge comes in as much of the Peterborough striker is caught as the ball as it is pushed wide, the advantage to the visitors with Katie Steward latching onto the ball, drills a shot in towards goal from 12 yards runs wide of the near post.
  Peterborough are starting to dominate pushing players forwards putting the Histon back line under pressure. The ball finds its way out to Nicholls on the left pushes on into the box Davies closing her down manages to push her wide getting into the six yard box, Nicholls squeezes a shot away the ball in low towards the near post, Slipper down sharply looks for a moment the ball might sneak in past her however the goalkeeper has done enough to kill the balls pace with her initial save, grabs it from going over the line. Katie Steward attacking on the right cuts inside into the box lets fly with a rasping effort on the angle, Slipper covering her near post makes the save pushing the ball behind for the corner. A good delivery from the set-piece on the right the ball headed on by Iredale near post is nodded down by Henderson far post to Nicholls outside the area takes the ball into the middle letting loose a shot inside the D, coming through bodies Slipper is in the right place to see the shot gathers it into her body.
  GOAL! Busy start to the 2nd half just a quarter of an hour played, the 2nd goal of the game comes as Peterborough building the momentum double their advantage. The visitors push players into the box for a corner on the right side the delivery is in towards the top of the area the ball helped on for Nicholls in a central position moves the ball on into the D before unleashing a strike, her effort smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box, the only player to react is Hopkins-Duckhouse right side inside the six yard box, puts her shot straight at Slipper the keeper parrying the ball down, giving Hopkins-Duckhouse another stab a goal send the ball across the keeper this time into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club 0-2.
 
Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse nets Peterborough’s 2nd goal
  Histon respond with a double change midfielders Lanham and Creek coming off to be replaced by Stacey Roper and Charlotte Westrope. Henderson and Nicholls combine in attack for Peterborough as the ball is worked out to the left, Henderson helping it on for Nicholls on the wing, brings the ball inside into the area, Davies on her giving no room for a shot or turn Nicholls lays the ball back out of the area to Henderson takes on the 1st time shot, lifts the ball up over the crossbar.
 GOAL! 5 minutes after going 2 up Peterborough extend their lead, putting pressure on the goal-kick as they have for much of the 2nd half the ball is won by Henderson with Gallagher already on the move to get in behind the Histon defence into the box Henderson plays the ball into her run, Slipper already on the move to close her down slides in, Gallagher coolly takes the ball around her to the right and taking a stride forwards sends the ball into the empty net beyond 0-3.
  GOAL! No sooner have they taken a 3-0 lead Peterborough go on to add a 4th goal. Pushing right from the restart forcing Histon to give the ball away inside their own half have the home side stretched as the ball is played forwards into Nicholls, Gallagher moves out to the left wing looking for the pass taking up the space Nicholls was heading for the winger gives her the ball and turns back inside looking to get into the area as Gallagher takes the ball down the line cuts the cross back into the box, stretching Wright almost gets it away, runs on for Nicholls far post outside the six yard box gets her foot up over the ball to turn it over the line to score 0-4.
 
  3 goals in 7 minutes have totally altered the game Peterborough getting on top and getting the goals, Histon look shell-shocked losing their shape in danger of conceding more as Henderson carries the ball through the centre of midfield plays the ball out to Cassie Steward moving right into the box hits the shot on the run plants the ball into the side netting. Henderson on the ball in the middle again plays the ball into the area for Gallagher drifting free on the left of the six yard box drags her shot wide across the face of goal. 
  GOAL! A devastating spell from the visitors to take a firm grip on this FA Women’s Cup tie as they go on to score again a 4th goal in an 11 minute burst. Rawlings bringing the ball on plays it forwards for Katie Steward her pass inside to Cassie Steward she goes for the shot from outside the box. Coming in low Slipper diving to her left manages to get a glove on the ball push it wide, running across goal, Nicholls is free that side running onto the ball inside the six yard box buries it into the roof of the net to make it 0-5.
 
  Roper comes deep to to receive the ball for Histon, holding it up well gets it out to the right for Sillitoe, manages to evade Frederick’s tackle taking the ball on rushes her shot from outside the box the ball swinging wide of goal. Histon make a change at the back, Wright has collected a series of knocks to her ankle is replaced by Amanda Binge. I retreat to the cover of the stands as a heavy sprawl of rain blows across the pitch. Henderson sees the ball into her feet inside the box from Hopkins-Duckhouse for Peterborough holding it up lays it into the D for Gallagher, falling back as she hits the shot her effort runs wide of the target.
 

Abigail Davies gets the ball clear
for Histon Ladies

Cassie Steward stands with her hands on her hips inside the Histon box bemused as her attempt to lob the keeper from inside the box as the ball is sent over the top results with her effort smashing against the crossbar coming down in the area the home defence clear it. Henderson taking the ball down the right wing for Peterborough is pushed down into the corner, escapes her marker to shift the ball inside, curling a cross into the six yard box Slipper takes the catch, not distracted by Katie Steward running across her.

  A little bit of pushing and shoving and a few words said out of turn sees the referee get his book out late on handing out a yellow card to Peterborough’s Frederick and Nicholls. Roper for Histon also receives a yellow. The free-kick is with Histon inside the Peterborough half on the right side. The ball played long into the box by Saunders is headed away by Iredale. Late counter by the visitors as they push players forwards, Cassie Steward onto the ball inside the box shoots an excellent save from Slipper at pointblank range. The ball spinning to the right Katie Steward to put back in Slipper saves again is fouled this time, no time left the referee blows the final whistle.
Full-time Histon Ladies 0-5 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies
  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies win the tie 0-5 and advance in the FA Women’s Cup going into the hat for Monday’s 4th Round Qualifying draw. A dominant 2nd half display getting on top of Histon and scoring 4 goals in a 11 minute spell to dominate the scoreline. Ultimately created far more chances getting the goals in the 2nd half. Histon battled hard to keep the scoreline down 0-1 behind at half-time had a couple of half chances to level thing’s up early in the 2nd half but were undone in the final half hour.
  My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. Best of luck to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the next round. 

  *UPDATE* The draw for 4th Round Qualifying has been made and Peterborough Northern Star Ladies will be away to Kettering Town Ladies – tie scheduled for Sunday 13th November.