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Cup Final Report – Hutton Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

Essex Women’s Trophy Final

Sunday 8th April

 Saffron Walden Town FC the venue for today’s football action on Women’s Football East, another Cup Final this season’s Essex Women’s Trophy Final to be contested between Hutton Ladies and Silver End United Ladies. 

  A new format for the competition this season with the sides knocked out of the earlier rounds off the County Cup going on to contest for the Trophy. Today’s final between two sides that play there football in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Division One. The pair haven’t met in league action as geography see’s Silver End United Ladies play in the North section with Hutton Ladies in the South.

  For a 2nd successive season Hutton Ladies reach a cup final, having reached the ERWFL Plate Final last season beating Colney Heath Ladies to life the trophy. Reaching the Essex Women’s Trophy Final this time around are still in with a good chance of defending the ERWFL Plate too having reached the last four, that semi-final scheduled for next weekend at home to Histon Ladies. Struggled for numbers at the beginning of the season which eventually led to their Reserve side folding earlier in the season. Currently 4th in the league are like many sides in the region, have several games left to play following one of the wettest winters in recent season’s aswell as their run in the cups.

 Silver End United Ladies are one of the few sides who have played out there fixtures ending their league campaign last weekend today’s final is their last match competitive match of the season. Have had a difficult campaign in the league finishing bottom of the league having struggled for numbers and injuries at the start of the season. Danielle Warnes taking on the role of player-manager at the start of the season. Rebuilding and recruitment during the season recent form has improved and to reach the final of a competition at the end of their season is a fantastic achievement.

Road to the Final

  Both sides entering the Trophy in the first round were both up against young sides riding high in their 1st season’s in women’s football amongst the title chasers in Essex Women’s Division One. Hutton Ladies were away to Leigh Ramblers Ladies coming out on top in a close match winning 3-2 to reach the quarter finals. Silver End United Ladies were at home to Southend United Ladies a 2-0 victory seeing them into the last 8.

   Hutton Ladies were away in the quarter finals taking on Essex Women’s Premier Division side Collier Row Tigers a 2-1 win seeing them book their place in the last 4. Silver End United Ladies were handed an away win against Hutton Ladies Reserves side who have since folded. Hutton Ladies had a home draw in the semi-finals up against Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies another new name this season. A free scoring side, Hutton proved to strong the higher league placed side comfortably into the final with a 6-1 win. A closer looking game in paper for Silver End United Ladies in the semi-finals at home to the current holders of the play Essex Premier Division side, Frontiers Ladies. Silver End United Ladies started the better and leading 2-0 at half-time held off a Frontiers come back in the 2nd half to win the match 2-1 the reach the Trophy final.

  The venue for today’s game Saffron Walden Town FC a small stadium in the heart of the town, car parking available beside the ground. two small seated stands either side of the pitch. A large bar and clubhouse with rejoining kitchen serving hot food and drinks. Sadly the weather wasn’t playing ball this Sunday as again like so many others recently the day was overcast with heavy rain falling before the game. It rained all the way down from Norfolk so I wouldn’t have been surprised if the game was in doubt when I got there, but despite being muddy the pitch drains well and was okay for the final. 

Today’s prize, The Essex Women’s Trophy

Hutton Ladies starting XI – Krissie Glover, Nicola Walker, Kristi McLeavey, Hannah Page (C), Rianne Dimmock, Kaitlin Sugg, Amy Crumpler, Keeley Walker, Lucy Critchell, Kate Lowen & Laura Allen. Subs – Rhiannon Mallard-McHugh, Lucy Blurton, Hayley Critchell & Patrizia Leo.

Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Emily Bambrick, Roxanne Gardner (C), Lindsey Cowell, Danielle Warnes, Danielle Bragg, Stephanie A’Len, Juliana Marques, Rebecca Donnelly, Megan Jiggins & Georgia Bryan. Subs – Laura Borein, Toni Brown, Jennifer Stanhope, Lisa Nepean & Angela Holden.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The rain still falling as the teams walk out onto the pitch the presentations taking place it’s Silver End wearing light blue shirts with navy shorts and socks to kick-off the 1st half with Hutton lined up opposite in an all red kit with white across their shirt shoulders.Conditions are going to be slippery under foot with the amount of rain that has fallen the ground having already seen one final played today. Hutton win the ball early play it long out to Lucy Critchell breaking down the left wing, Silver End captain Roxanne Gardner at right back sliding in to make the challenge put the ball out for a throw.

Kaitlin Sugg holds Silver End, Danielle Bragg off the ball

   Kristi McLeavey winning the ball for Hutton looks to play Kate Lowen in ahead of her on the right taking the ball on down the line slips as she attempts to turn inside giving Emily Bambrick the opportunity to tackle and put the ball out for a throw deep on the right. McLeavey throws it long towards the edge of the Silver End area, Lindsey Cowell getting her head on the ball to clear for Silver End, they counter attack getting the ball up to their attackers, Megan Jiggins bringing the ball down passes it to Georgia Bryan to her left looking for the return pass put into her path as she looks to get in between the Hutton centre backs, Hannah Page, Hutton’s captain intercepts the pass. 

Hutton captain, Hannah Page with Silver End United Ladies, Megan Jiggins

   A free kick awarded wide on the right for Silver End a chance to put the ball into the area  a good delivery into the six yard box Hutton goalkeeper Krissie Glover does well under with a Silver End player closing her down to punch the ball away, the play halted the challenge deemed unfair against the goalkeeper, Glover takes the free-kick. McLeavey with another long throw in deep inside the Hutton half in the right the ball knocked on across the top of the area Lowen knocks it over the top with Laura Allen breaking in behind, the ball dropping wide of goal before she can get a telling touch. 

  Hutton have started the game the better pushing players forwards turning play around quickly no one is afforded any time on the ball the pass forwards Allen giving chase Danielle Warnes sliding in to win the ball. Silver End attack up the right Juliana Marques with the ball squared inside players clustering round the top of the area Jiggins with the strike in towards goal, Glover right behind it makes the comfortable save. 

  Silver End capitalise as a kick out of the area from Glover is intercepted on the right side the ball moved quickly into the middle Jiggins turning and sliding the ball on for Rebecca Donnelly 25 yards out the goal open hits the ball 1st time Glover scrambling to get back across arrives just in time to see the ball bounce wide of the post. A busy opening quarter hour play rushed as both sides move the ball on quickly, Silver End are on the attack, the ball won back by Keeley Walker in her own half the midfielder carries the ball forwards Allen making a good run ahead of her peeling away to the right receives the ball shooting from just outside the area her shot angling in towards goal is straight at Hannah Streetley the goalkeeper making the save. Gardner defends well up against Allen in the next Hutton attack as Walker looks to set her up moving left this time.

Plenty of mud out there

   Silver End break forwards players drifting into the middle, Donnelly is in space on the left the ball played forwards she gives chase towards the box, Glover comes rushing out to meet her sliding in to save at the attackers feet, the ball not gathered runs on behind Glover, Donnelly keeping her feet tries to get there McLeavey back on the cover shielding the ball as Glover gets back to smother the ball. Kaitlin Sugg with good hold up play moving towards the right for Hutton get the ball forwards for Allen running in behind, a cry of frustration as she sends her cross behind the Silver End goal.

Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock

Up the other end Rianne Dimmock comes across from the middle of defence to put the ball out for a throw as Donnelly is looking to get in behind for Silver End on the left. Warns puts in the block as Lowen and Allen attempt the one two getting forwards down the right channel for Hutton. Streetley with a good save to deny Allen as Hutton push on down the left the diagonal ball missed by the Silver End defence running onto Allen clear into the box pulls the trigger looking to put the shot back across the keeper Streetley getting a glove on the ball to deflect it away.

Hutton Ladies, Kate Lowen

  Hutton look lively breaking forwards through the middle Walker on for Lowen takes a run at the Silver End defence, Bambrick blocking her shot the rebound coming out to Amy Crumpler she attempts the slide the through ball on for Allen, a little too much on the ball Streetley can get out of her goal to gather at the top of her area. 

GOAL! Approaching the half hour mark the dead lock is broken as Hutton score the opening goal of the final, pressing forwards through the middle Sugg on the ball riding a tackle from Jiggins as appeals are made for the free-kick Sugg finds herself with time and space on the ball 35 yards out takes on the shot her lobbed effort flying over Streetley to land in the back of the net 1-0. 

Hutton Ladies’ Kaitlin Sugg

Crumpler bringing the ball on through the middle after breaking up at Silver End attack looks to exploit a high defensive line a defensive slip seeing Allen run in behind the flag up against Hutton as Lowen is caught offside. Both sides make a change, Toni Brown coming on for Bambrick for Silver End, Hayley Critchell on for Lucy Critchell for Hutton. Stephanie A’Len bringing the ball on for Silver End through the middle support to her right with Marques the ball dinked over the top of the Hutton defence deflected wide brings the 1st corner of the match. Played in from the right a good delivery an equally good claim from Glover jumping at her near post. 

A’Len getting on with the ball at her feet again through the middle has Donnelly breaking clear on the left wing taking the ball on up the line squares a cross in towards the near post Jiggins closing in as Glover goes down to save the ball put wide looks to come off the keeper but a goal kick is awarded. Into the closing minutes of the 1st half a throw deep on the right for Silver End the ball played into the area Bryan holding in the ball up right of the goal attempts to lay it back for the advancing runner, Hutton defend the ball deflected wide across the six yard box Jiggins retrieves left side swings a low cross back into the six yard box, Glover down low lays claim to the ball. 

  Last attack of the half as Hutton break the ball rolled on for Lowen to take on jinking left then right takes on the Silver End defence moving right gets a shot away from inside the box, Streetley is a tall goalkeeper plucks the ball down safely at her near post.

Half-time Hutton Ladies 1-0 Silver End United Ladies

  That 1st half passed very quickly the ball wasn’t still for a second both sides eager to get forwards, play broken up in midfield space is available if the pass can find the runner. Both goalkeepers producing saves. A single goal the difference between the sides a narrow advantage for Hutton a well taken goal by Sugg to put them ahead. Silver End far from out of the game plenty to look forwards to in the 2nd half.

Tackle avoidance, Hutton’s Amy Crumpler evades Megan Jiggins slide in the mud

A change for both sides at half-time. Both in attack, Patrizia Leo is on for Hutton in place of Lowen. Angela Holden is on for Silver End in place of Bryan. Hutton to get the 2nd half underway. Silver End win the ball and counter the pass long out to Donnelly on the left wins a corner kick. Players forwards as the delivery comes in from the left knocked on across the face of goal falls to Holden from close range her shot is blocked deflected behind for a corner on the right. A good ball in low across the top of the six yard box, no one challenging Glover as she drops forwards onto the ball. 

Silver End United Ladies captain, Roxanne Gardner

  Bragg with a excellent tackle to get hold of the ball for Silver End in the centre on for A’Len she runs with the ball before looking to slide Jiggins in on goal Sugg tracking back is able to shield the ball back to her goalkeeper. A free-kick on halfway for Hutton players up to the top of the area as Crumpler plays it forwards the headed clearance coming back to her as she advances takes a shot fro distance her effort blocked Sugg trying to get on the end of the rebound Silver End launch the ball up field. 

  Crumpler plays the ball on for Critchell getting clear on the left closing in on the byline sends a low cross in towards the six yard box Streetley gets to it first. A’Len with the ball on for Jiggins she is tackled by Walker, the game becoming a little stretched, Silver End knowing they are not out of it sense they can pull the scores level Hutton know they need another goal. Critchell sees another cross in from the left race across the Silver End six yard box. Walker does enough to stop A’Len as the Silver End midfielder looks to press on with the ball. The ball not cleared the diagonal ball is fired in towards the far post Marques closing in, Glover gets out ahead of her to take the ball. 

Silver End United Ladies, Stephanie A’Len

 Leo on the attack right side fires and early ball into the area a difficult ball for Streetley to deal with gets a glancing touch on the ball in the middle of her six yard box to knock the ball on to the left side Critchell after it regains possession hitting a shot in on the turn, Streetley has her near post covered by then is well placed to make the save. Silver End launch a rapid counter the ball on through the middle Bragg on for Jiggins on the move takes on the early shot outside the area Glover behind it all the way safely gathers. 

Straight up the other end the ball played out to Critchell on the left side knocks the ball inside 25 yards out sends a shot in towards goal the rising ball heading for the top corner Streetley makes the save knocking the ball down and away for the corner. The corner delivered low in towards the near post is cleared. Silver End make another change Marques the player coming off on comes Jennifer Stanhope. Silver End are pushing fro the equaliser with 20 minutes of the game left Leo attacking with the ball right side turns in field is tackled by Brown on the edge of the box. Hutton make another change the Critchell’s switching places once again Lucy back on for Hayley. 

 GOAL! Crumpler has the ball at her feet running towards the Silver End goal his fouled by Bragg in a dangerous position 25 yards out central to goal. It’s Crumpler to take the set-piece strikes it superbly the ball curled over the wall finding the top right hand corner of the goal to double Hutton’s lead with less than a quarter of an hour to play 2-0. 

Hutton Ladies, Amy Crumpler

Crumpler involved in the build up once more as Hutton push on taking the ball on through the middle lays the pass out to Leo on the right her early diagonal ball low into the box evades Streetley the ball heading for the goal beyond the Silver End defence back tracking the ball is cleared off the line by Warnes. A throw high on the left for Hutton into Critchell plays the pass from the top of the area 25 yards out on for Allen she takes the ball on shapes too shoot her standing foot going out from under her as she doe so the ball running wide of the far post as a result. A free-kick for Silver End as Gardner is fouled inside her own half almost all go forwards towards the Hutton penalty area. Hutton make a change Crumpler coming off, Lucy Blurton comes on.

 GOAL! Closing in on the final 5 minutes of the match and Silver End set up a tense finish to the final as they pull a goal back. The ball played up towards the top left corner of the area Hutton don’t get it clear as Silver End pressure the ball the cross is fired into the middle of the area, A’Len meeting it sends the ball past the keeper into the back of the goal to make it 2-1.

  Jiggins plays the ball on for Donnelly looking to come inside to attack the box from the left Dimmock gets there first to clear the ball over her own crossbar for the corner. Allen finds space on the left as the ball is won in midfield by Walker. Shoots from 25 yards out her low ball in gathered by Streetley. Silver End make another substitution Bragg the player coming off, Lisa Nepean on. Nicola Walker gets forwards on the left in support of Allen the attacker getting the ball into her the full back squares a cross into the area intercepted by Warnes. Allen chases the ball into the corner eating up valuable seconds.

Silver Ends, Jennifer Stanhope tackles Hutton’s Nicola Walker

  Silver End bring off Gardner late on sending Laura Borein on a straight swap at right back. Donnelly sends a shot over the Hutton cross bar after the referee plays the advantage as she runs onto the ball after Jiggins is fouled in the middle. The last chance of the match as the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate winning the Essex Women’s Trophy.

Full time Hutton Ladies 2-1 Silver End United Ladies

  Despite the horrible conditions an entertaining final played at a furious pace both sides never finding any time on the ball. Hutton leading 1-0 at half time were in need of a 2nd goal as Silver End pushed for a reply in the 2nd half, Amy Crumpler’s superb free-kick doubling the advantage. Silver End never gave up though and pulling it back to 2-1 made Hutton work for the result. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   Sometimes it can be an easy decision… but more often then not it’s a tough one picked a Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. A committed battle in the centre of the park play broken up by both sides, plenty of good forwards movement too. One player slightly ahead of the rest and consistent throughout was Hutton’s Amy Crumpler and add on to that her excellent free-kick the make it 2-0 she wins today’s Player of the Match award. 

Essex Women’s Trophy winners 17/18, Hutton Ladies

Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning this season’s Essex Women’s Trophy Final.

 To Silver End United Ladies congratulations too, a cup final to end a difficult season for the club.

  Plenty more games left to squeeze in before the end of the season and possibly some dry ones too. Enjoyed the final despite the weather my thanks to the Essex FA and both the clubs for their assistance today. 

Match Report – Silver End United Ladies v Frontiers Ladies

Sunday 18th February

 A trip to Essex today to watch a game from the Essex Women’s Trophy. At the semi-finals stage as Silver End United Ladies host Frontiers Ladies the current holders looking to defend the trophy.

   A new look for the Essex Women’s Trophy this season run by the Essex FA with the sides knocked out of the early rounds in the County Cup going on to contest the Trophy. 

  Silver End United Ladies play their football in the ERWFL Northern Division a tough season league wise struggling for form and numbers plus injuries earlier on in the season sit bottom of the table. Recent results have improved with progression in the Essex Women’s Trophy seeing the side with an opportunity to reach a final and challenge for silverware.

  Frontiers Ladies are into their 2nd season since being formed in 2016 the Harlow based side winning the Essex Women’s Division One title at the 1st attempt going unbeaten dropping just 2 points along the way. A double last season too as they won the Essex Women’s Trophy in its old format. Have started this season strongly too laying 2nd in the Essex Women’s Premier Division still yet to be beaten in the league games in hand on leaders Hatfield Peverel Ladies.

   In terms of the women’s football pyramid there is just one place between the sides going into today’s semi-final clash. Both sides entering the Trophy in the 1st Round, Silver End United Ladies were at home to Essex Women’s Division One side Southend United Ladies progressing into the quarter finals with a 2-0 win. Drawn away to Hutton Ladies Reserves they were awarded an away win against the Premier Division side. Frontiers Ladies began their Trophy defence away from home to fellow Essex Premier Division side Harlow Town Ladies Reserves, a 3-1 win taking them into the quarter finals where they faced another Premier Division side at home this time to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies again the result 3-1 to see Frontiers progress.

  The venue for today’s semi-final Conker Park the home ground of Silver End United FC part of a larger sporting centre right in the heart of Silver End itself adjoining pitches hosting a number of youth sides aswell as the senior mens and women’s sides. Hot and cold refreshments available. The pitch for today’s match well used nice and wide, alot of rain recently it was sticky underfoot. A dry day however the sun was even out a few clouds around but no rain forecast. 

Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Emily Bambrick, Danielle Warnes, Lindsey Cowell, Roxanne Gardner (C), Stephanie A’Len, Danielle Bragg, Rebecca Donnelly, Juliana Marques, Megan Jiggins & Angela Holden. Subs- Toni Brown, Laura Borein, Jennifer Stanhope & Georgia Bryan.

Frontiers Ladies starting XI – Rebecca Tyson, Adele Hughes, Jackie Day, Shelley Anglin-Liiv, Kelly Holsworth (C), Anna Freeman, Jill Bartholomew, Ann Anstey, Freya Anglin-Liiv, Sharon Ferguson & Kay Foy. Subs – Vikki Silvester, Poppy Bennett, Loren Delamere, Emma Best & Hayley King.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

It’s Silver End to kick-off the 1st half, wearing light blue shirts with navy blue shorts and socks with Frontiers lined up opposite wearing pink shirts and socks with black shorts. The Essex FA appointing 3 officials for the game. An early free-kick awarded to Silver End inside their own half the ball played up towards the top of the area, attacker Megan Jiggins getting her head on the ball knocks it on into the area taking a deflection off a Frontiers defender on the way a corner signalled. Silver End’s captain, Roxanne Gardner to take from the right a good delivery into the top of the area looking for Lindsey Cowell the central defender up from the back can’t quite bring the ball under control as it squirms past her across to the right Emily Bambrick running onto the ball 20 yards out goes for goal flies over the crossbar a touch from a Frontiers player sees another corner signalled. Frontiers defend the ball at the near post.

A bright start from the home sides Silver End push their attacking players forwards Juliana Marques released into space on the right gets down the line with the ball wins Silver End another corner kick, Gardner’s delivery whipped in across the face of goal turned goalwards at close range bodies around her goalkeeper Rebecca Tyson gets something on it the ball kept out as Silver End hands go up in appeal for handball, play continues the ball cleared out of the area a shot comes back in low and fast, Tyson with a good save diving to her right. 

Silver End United Ladies, Juliana Marques

The corner count is mounting for Silver End right side again the ball fired in towards the top of the area is met by a Silver End head the ball driven wide of the near post. Frontiers struggling to get any forwards momentum in the early stages Silver End pressing the ball well. A half chance comes the visitors way as Silver End goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley doesn’t get any height on the back pass rolled into her the ball running straight to Anna Freeman in a central position out she sends the diagonal ball out to the right side Freya Anglin-Liiv getting in behind the Silver End defence scuffs her shot from the edge of the area dragging the ball wide of goal. 

  Jill Bartholomew in the middle of the park for Frontiers gets onto the ball coming left the pass up the line for Kay Foy in attack, Cowell comes across to defend for Silver End. Again the same combination moments later Bartholomew up the line for Foy the attacker getting her cross in from the byline this time flashing across the face of goal, Anglin-Liiv racing in at the far post can’t quite get a touch on the ball to deflect it into the back of the net. 

  The visitors win the ball at the back Shelley Anglin-Liiv into Bartholomew the ball played up field Sharon Ferguson the target controls the high ball well bringing it down into her body with Freeman making a run forwards central the ball played into her path she strikes it from 20 yards out the low effort saved by Streetley coming out to meet her dropping low to her right getting a glove on the ball, Gardner back to kick the ball out of play.

Rebecca Donnelly with the ball on the left fro Silver End looks to take on the Frontiers defence evading a clumsy challenge gets a shot away with defenders and goalkeeper drawn to the ball past them all everyone turns expecting it to bounce into the empty net beyond, Marques is arriving at the far post as it bounces just wide unsure if she got a touch or not either way the flag is up for offside. Kelly Holsworth Frontiers captain is down in the middle after turning her ankle in a fall needs treatment but is cleared to come back on. 

Frontiers, Jackie Day with Silver End United’s Rebecca Donnelly

A good ball played over the top of the Frontiers defence by Silver End’s Stephanie A’Len looks to have sent Donnelly through on goal coming in from the left, the flag is up though against Angela Holden who was offside in the middle. Silver End with another corner right side Gardner with another good delivery into the middle of the area, Holden trying to let the ball run across her can’t get a shot away as Frontiers scramble the ball away look to clear the ball quickly up field is won back and played forwards Holden springing the offside trap this time a good starting position from Tyson sees the goalkeeper get to the ball first.

Silver End United Ladies, Roxanne Gardner

A competitive game no one given much time on the ball Ferguson looking to link up with Ann Anstey getting forwards the attack stopped by the officials flag. Ferguson looking to hold the ball up turns well 30 yards from goal plays it high into the area with Foy making the run, Streetley able to take the bouncing ball into her body before the striker can reach it. Danielle Warnes wins the ball at the back for Silver End as Ferguson controlling the ball on her chest hooks it on into the box looking for Freeman.

   A good spell from Frontiers more good hold up play by Ferguson slips the pass through for Anglin-Liiv on the right the flag up against her as she takes it on into the area. Silver End launch a rapid counter attack Gardner into Danielle Bragg the ball played forwards a vital interception from Frontiers Jackie Day at the back or the home side would have been through on goal. Jiggins gets the ball through for Holden, bearing down on the area, Day is with her as Tyson comes out of the area to clear the ball.

Frontiers Ladies, Jackie Day

GOAL! Late into the first half and the deadlock is broken comes unfortunately from an error, the game is being played at the fast tempo the ball end to end Frontiers are on the attack lose possession Silver End come forwards Holden released in behind the visitors defence left side towards the area, Tyson comes out to the edge to kick the ball away slips on the sticky surface landing on the ball, manages to recover enough to push it away from Holden but the ball comes straight into Jiggins to her left and 20 yards out wide of goal sends the ball into the empty net to make it 1-0.

   Marques with a burst of pace on the right runs onto the ball as Holden picks her out in the middle, Day comes across to defend for Frontiers putting the ball out for a throw in deep on the right form it Silver End win a corner.

 GOAL! Silver End double their lead from the set-piece have put pressure on the keeper inside her six yard box earlier on this time Gardner’s delivery is swung in close Jiggins a tall player coming towards the ball gets in front of Tyson and knocks the ball over the line for her 2nd of the game 2-0.

2 goals for Silver End United Ladies, Megan Jiggins

   More good link up play between Marques and Holden as Silver End attack down the right side the winger playing the ball inside to Holden before running on to receive the return pass, Day across just about gets there first putting it out for a corner on the right. The corner cleared Ferguson looks to get forwards for Frontiers is brought down in a central position inside the Silver End half. Holsworth over the ball, regular readers of The Round-Up will know the Frontiers captain is a threat from any set-piece presented to her, a long way out nevertheless goes for the shot, on target but Streetley has time to shuffle across her goal line and claim the ball.

Deep into 1st half injury time Silver End mount an attack Holden playing off the shoulder of the last Frontiers defender springing the offside trap, Adele Hughes getting back to slide in a win the ball on the edge of the area, knocked into the path of Donnelly she sends the ball goalwards from 20 yards out her effort bouncing wide across the face of goal.

Half-time Silver End United Ladies 2-0 Frontiers Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half played at a fast tempo, Silver End starting well, catching Frontiers a little slow out of the blocks early chances before Frontiers got into the game themselves becoming an even contest the opening goal coming from an unfortunate error at the back Silver End going on to double their lead always looked a threat from a corner. A 2-0 lead at half-time the tie far from settled.

A goalkeeper change for Frontiers at half-time Vikki Silvester replacing Tyson. The visitors getting the 2nd half underway. Start well Hughes winning the ball back puts in on for Freya Anglin-Liiv plays the ball into Freeman before getting the return ball and taking in onto the byline inside the box getting the better of her marker, sends the cross in the ball cut out and out behind by Cowell at the near post. Streetley coming into the crowd at the near post gloves the ball away for a 2nd corner. This one deeper Streetley with a confident claim in the centre of her 6 yard box. 

Frontiers, Kay Foy tries to find a way through the Silver End united defence

A throw high on the left for Silver End as they bring the ball forwards play stopped by the bane of a pitch with public access – dog mess – cleared up play resumes. Both sides take the opportunity to make an early change 2nd half, Marques coming off for Silver End, Jennifer Stanhope comes on in attack right side. Hayley King comes on for Frontiers in place of Anstey. Foy gets onto a loose ball for Frontiers up front taking it on to the byline squeezes a cross in looking for Anglin-Liiv making a run near post, Silver End have players back too successful defend. Another change for the home side, Bambrick coming off at left back Toni Brown coming on.

    The 2nd half more competitive than the 1st if anything, Frontiers working hard to try and find a reply. Offside decisions frustrating both sides but so quick is the turn around at times it’s easy to stray offside both back lines are keeping a good line too. Another change for Frontiers Holsworth still feeling her ankle injury from the 1st half coming off, Poppy Bennett coming on. 

 GOAL! Frontiers find the goal they were looking for early in the 2nd half, won at the back the ball played up into Ferguson just over halfway room to run with the ball sees the goalkeeper off her line and from 30 yards out goes to lob her, Streetley is a tall goalkeeper however the ball in up and over her before she came get back to stop it finding the back of the net 2-1 game on.

The moment Frontiers Ladies, Sharon Ferguson shoots to score and make it 2-1

Silver End look for an immediate response get forwards on the right side Stanhope playing the ball across the top of the area Jiggins sliding in for the ball as Silvester comes racing out of her goal going to ground the pair collide both injured the flag up for offside in either case, lengthy treatment for Jiggins who goes off the field to further strap up her right knee. Both striker and goalkeeper are okay to continue.

A throw on the left for Frontiers, Freeman on for Foy the striker can’t reach it before Gardner the ball cleared for a throw deep in the corner from it Frontiers win a corner before it is taken Silver End make a change, Georgia Bryan coming on for Holden goes up top. Very nearly the levelling goal from Frontiers but for a brilliant piece of goalkeeping from Streetley, the ball delivered into the six yard box near post area Ferguson with the snap shot two yards out, the ball deflected goalwards, Streetley instinctively stooping an outstretched glove into the balls path knocking it away her defence clearing the ball.

Frontiers, Adele Hughes keeps her eye on the ball

 All action Frontiers confident they can find a way back into the game push forwards risk the counter at the back Silver End ready to capitalise strong defending from both sides Cowell and Warnes for Silver End, Day covering  well for Frontiers, King gets the ball over the Silver End defence after good hold up play on the left, Foy breaking clear can’t get there before Streetley claims the ball. Offside’s continue frustrate Silver End, Jiggins making her protests known is warned once then when she throws the ball down into the ground after another call goes against her finds herself yellow carded.

Stephanie A’Len looks to get forwards for Silver End United Ladies

 Into the last 15 minutes A’Len fouled bringing the ball on for Silver End on halfway the ball played out to the right, Shelley Anglin-Liiv in with the tackle to regain possession for Frontiers. The crossfield ball into King on the right for the visitors in towards the top right hand corner of the area just outside she is brought down by Brown a free-kick awarded, Bartholomew on the ball goes for the shot flies over the bar near side. Hughes with a great tackle to win the ball for Frontiers pushed on into Ferguson in a central position 25 yards out goes for the early shot looking to lob the keeper once again Streetley is better positioned this time the ball lacking pace as she brings it down cleanly into her gloves.

Jiggins moves to the left to receive the ball puts in a diagonal pass towards the area Silvester claiming it before Bryan can reach it. Her goalkick played on through the middle coming to Ferguson 20 yards out looks to strike the ball 1st time doesn’t get a good connection the ball running along the ground gathered by Streetley. A change for both sides late on Laura Borein comes on for Silver End replacing Jiggins. Loren Delamere joins the action for Frontiers in place of Freya Anglin-Liiv.

Frontiers, Hayley King with Silver End United’s Toni Brown

 A fair bit of stoppage time to play due to injuries. The game stretched as Frontiers push forwards, Silver End looking comfortable at the back, Gardner coming inside to win the ball from Ferguson late on. The final whistle blows and Silver End win the game 2-1 to reach the Trophy final.

Full time Silver End United Ladies 2-1 Frontiers Ladies

  An entertaining cup tie, had a sneaky feeling it would be a close one and it certainly was. Competitive a sticky surface to play on. Both sides creating chances Silver End starting the better before Frontiers grew into the 1st half could have easily gone in level at half-time as it was Silver End capitalised on an error to open the scoring then doubled their advantage. Frontiers battled hard getting it back to 2-1 and only a brilliant piece of goalkeeping prevented an equaliser, Silver End defending well to hold onto their lead and claim the semi-final win ending Frontiers defence of the Trophy.

Silver End United Ladies will face ERWFL Division One South side, Hutton Ladies in the Essex Women’s Trophy Final after they beat Essex Women’s Division One side Rayleigh Town Ladies 6-1 at home in the other semi-final.  The date and venue for the Trophy final to be announced.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Another difficult one today picking this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several contenders from both sides, Day strong at the back for Frontiers. Streetley with an excellent save, today’s Player of the Match goes to Silver End United’s, Megan Jiggins her two goals winning the semi-final was a threat in attack especially 1st half winning the ball supporting Holden through the middle.

Nice to watch a game in the sun for a change, an entertaining semi-final between two sides I have been keen to see this season. Competitive right to the final whistle. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line-ups today. Congratulations to Silver End United Ladies on reaching the final.

 

Match Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

The 2nd Final of the day at the County Ground featured Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies in the ERWFL League Cup. A 3pm kick-off the whole match report as featured on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog can be viewed below.

Cup Final Report – Colchester Town Ladies v Silver End United Ladies

 
 On to the 2nd of today’s ERWFL Cup Finals a 3 o’clock kick-off between Colchester Town Ladies and Silver End United Ladies as they contest this season’s League Cup.

  The ERWFL League Cup will belong to an Essex side after today’s final with both finalists travelling west to the County Ground to contest the cup. Colchester Town Ladies the only ERWFL Premier Division representative on Finals day with Silver End United Ladies playing in just their 1st season at this level reaching the final. 

Road to the Final

  A straight knock-out competition open to all the clubs playing in the 3 ERWFL leagues the Division One sides in the East & West league contest the opening two rounds. Colchester Town Ladies entered the competition at the 3rd Round stage an away trip to the the ERWFL Premier Division leaders, Billericay Town Ladies. Won the game 2-0 to reach the quarter-finals drawn at home this time to face fellow Premier Division side, Haringey Borough Women. A single goal scored by Chelsea Forde seeing them into the semi-finals and another home tie against AFC Sudbury Ladies enjoying a good 1st season in the Premier Division. I went along to this game was a classic cup tie a 7 goal thriller Sudbury taking the lead only for Colchester to come back and lead twice themselves before eventually going on to win 4-3 to reach the ERWFL League Cup Final.

  Silver End United Ladies started the competition in the 1st Round away to Division One West side Sawbridgeworth Town WFC, won the game 3-2 in extra-time. Were on the road again in the 2nd Round a tough away trip to another Division One West side, Offley & Stopsley Ladies won the game 4-1 to set up a home tie against Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies in the 3rd Round. Emerged 2-1 winners to reach the quarter-finals and play fellow Division One East side West Billericay Ladies at home another 4-1 victory setting up a semi-final clash at home to Stevenage Ladies who would go on to be crowned ERWFL Premier Division Champions, Silver End United Ladies the underdogs found themselves a goal down battling hard going into the closing minutes of the game, Rebecca Hollocks scored 2 goals to see them win and reach the ERWFL League Cup Final.

  Again played at the County Ground a 2 hour break between matches, allowed me the chance to destroy a sausage, egg and bacon bap, refuelled to the 2nd Final of the day, still bright and sunny as the two sides were led out onto the pitch.

 
  Colchester Town Ladies starting XI – Nikita Runnacles, Elizabeth Blacklock, Zoe Smith, Ellen Powles, Lucy Jones, Charlotte Bryant, Alex Brewis-Shepard, Paige Wakefield, Megan Bamber, Georgia Box & Chelsea Forde.
  subs – Kira Fitzpatrick, Stacey Roper & Laura Guyon.
 
  Silver End United Ladies starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Abi Head, Georgia Raby, Lindsey Cowell, Roxanne Gardener, Jodie Osborne, Dani Warnes, Alex Bailess, Rebecca Hollocks (C) Lynsey Bowman & Rebekah Henderson.
  subs – Nikita Walker, Helen Alder, Paula Drane, Amy Evans & Michelle Taylor 
 
(roll on roll off substitutes)
It’s Colchester wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks to kick off the 1st half in the ERWFL League Cup Final against Silver End who are lined up wearing sly blue coloured shirts with navy shorts and socks. The ball goes long to the left side early towards Megan Bamber on the left, wins a couple of throws as she makes progress down the wing before the ball eventually played into the area is headed clear. 
  A quiet start to the game the ball spending alot time being exchanged between the midfield players as they look impose themselves on the ball. Charlotte Bryant plays the ball out to Bamber making a run on the left wing again, lifts the cross in towards the Silver End goal rising towards the near post goalkeeper, Hannah Streetley is well placed to claim the ball. Paige Wakefield brings the ball forwards for Colchester has Georgia Box on her right rolls the ball out to her taking it further down the wing cuts back inside as she reaches the top of the box playing it back to Wakefield who then looks to play it into captain Alex Brewis-Shephard in a central position outside the box, misses her shot the ball running on to Bamber far side, left drives forwards lifting the ball into the area, Streetley calls for it and gathers.
   Wakefield gets herself on the ball for Colchester again coming forwards has Zoe Smith ahead of her in the centre, playing the ball to her she looks to hit the shot, Silver End defender, Abi Head gets her body in the way to make the block. Box gets in behind the Silver End defence on the right makes a run towards goal into the area, Jodie Osborne comes across to win the tackle put the ball behind for a corner kick. 
Silver End United Ladies, Georgia Raby looking to get ahead of Colchester’s Georgia Box
  Silver End look to get the ball forwards themselves Alex Bailess plying it up to Silver End captain, Rebecca Hollocks, strong on the ball, holds it up well outside the Colchester area, turns back inside looking for an opening to send n a shot, none available plays the pass across to Rebekah Henderson free to the right, goes for the shot fires the ball straight at Colchester’s goalkeeper, Nikita Runnacles.
  Lynsey Bowman out wide right for Silver End brings the ball forwards, Hollocks looks to provide a run ahead of her moving into the channel, can’t get past Colchester’s Lucy Jones the ball out for a throw, ending up back with Runnacles, Colchester hit Silver End with a quick counter attack the ball played long to Bamber on the left the early cross is fired in with pace, Wakefield furthest forwards in the middle improvises as the ball runs behind her run looks to deflect it towards goal with her heel,  doesn’t get enough contact with the ball runs wide for a goal kick. Running with the ball on the right Box looks to come inside Wakefield is in the area looks to play her in, she slips as she goes to shot the ball rolls harmlessly in towards Streetley who gets down to see it into her gloves.
  An early change for Colchester as they bring Bamber off, Kira Fitzpatrick coming on to the wide left attacking position. Having rode out the opening 15 minutes of sustained Colchester possession Silver End are starting to find a little more time on the ball. The ball is put long into Bowman on the right 20 yards out meets it on the volley slicing the effort wide of goal. A free kick is won on halfway, Roxanne Gardner to play the ball up towards the Colchester area, Hollocks gets up highest to header the all across to Henderson to the left of goal takes on the strike smashes the ball against Colchester defender, Elizabeth Blacklock.
Silver End United Ladies, Lynsey Bowman
  Bowman finds some space to run into on the left as Hollocks central holds the ball up before laying out out into space for her to chase down, getting hold of it driving into the box let’s fly her shot hits the side netting. Runnacles is out quickly to block Bowman as she is played in behind on the left again, blocking the ball it goes out for a throw on the left. Box and Fitzpatrick have switched flanks, Box is over on the left reaching the top of the area plays the ball inside into Bryant who hits the 1st time shot in towards goal lifts the attempt over the crossbar.
  Silver End get caught with numbers up the pitch as they lose the ball in attack Ellen Powles playing the ball through the middle Box is in clear to run at the Silver End penalty area, Head comes across and tackles well getting the ball away from Box out to the right side, Fitzpatrick looks to get to the ball smash it back into the area ends up smashing it into the Head’s face leaves the defender pole-axed on the ground. Fear she might be knocked out but after a few moments is up albeit holding the right side of her jaw a painful one.
   Bryant passes the ball to Powles looks to go long hit the ball on the diagonal with Smith looking for it central making a run to get into the area, very nearly succeeds the pass just needs a touch and Smith is clear on goal, just evades her boot. Colchester get themselves a corner on the right fired in the ball is headed in towards goal, Streetley punches it away falls to the edge of the area , Osborne puts in the block as the shot is fired in. 
  GOAL! Colchester have been pressing for a goal and in the dying moments of the 1st half get themselves the lead the ball is played out to Box on the left side gets down the line before whipping a cross into the box, Brewis-Shephard has made the run from midfield and is unmarked on the six yard line the cross falling to her she heads it down towards the far post the ball rolling over the line 1-0.
 
Colchester Town Ladies captain, Alex Brewis-Shephard opens the scoring

Half-time Colchester Town Ladies 1-0 Silver End United Ladies

  Colchester have had the bulk of the attack 1st half, but for all of their possession Silver End have defended will, pressing the ball and putting in the blocks, haven’t had much in the way of attacks themselves holding out before conceding so late in the 1st half. 
  Silver End get the 2nd half underway, Colchester get hold of it right from the start putting it out to Box on the left looks to play in Brewis-Shephard through the middle, Osborne closes in to tackle the ball sent out of play for a throw left.
  GOAL! Colchester keep Silver End pegged back from the throw get players into the left corner, the ball is laid back to the edge of the area before being sent in to Box inside the six yard box left of goal, going to ground gets she shot away the ball going across the goal face past the keeper and in 2-0. An early goal 2nd half just what Colchester wanted. 
  Silver End respond with a substitution, Helen Alder coming on for Henderson. Colchester are on the attack again Chelsea Forde playing the ball out to Fitzpatrick on the right side arriving with pace meets the ball on the corner of the area fires the shot it smashes into the boarding behind the Silver End goal. Colchester a pressing hard at the start of the 2nd half Box moving out to the right takes the ball into the area squares it along the face of the area with Brewis-Shephard, before she can get the shot away, Head gets back on her blocking the ball spinning into the gloves of Streetley. Colchester make another change sending on Stacey Roper for Forde who has picked up a knock. 
  Osborne matches up the bruises on team mate Head’s face as her defensive clearance smashes her in the face again, another stinging blow needs a few seconds to recover holding her nose this time, but checking she’s okay Head is happy to continue. Ducks out of the way of a third blow to the face as the ball is put out for a throw. Colchester work the ball across the box from the throw deep on the left comes through to Wakefield sends in a low shot towards goal, Streetley is down quickly to hold onto the ball.
Silver End United Ladies captain, Rebecca Hollocks
  Silver End with a free kick inside the Colchester half, Hollocks smashes a fierce drive into the wall the ball coming back to her is played out to the left, Bowmen gets onto it takes the ball on into the area wins her side a corner kick, Wakefield back defending the set-piece gets it clear drops outside the area Head looks to hit it on the half volley slices the shot wide. Silver End make a change taking off Lindsey Cowell and bringing Amy Evans on.
 GOAL! Brewis-Shephard picks up the ball in the middle makes a crossfield run right to left, full back Jones is already on the move bombing forwards the ball is played into her path taking it on down the flank crosses the ball in towards the near post with Box coming to meet it, hits the ball hard rising towards goal, a great save from Streetley throwing herself up getting her gloves to the ball doesn’t get it away unfortunately as it falls to Wakefield at the far post to head the ball over the line 3-0. 60 minutes played Colchester with a strong start to the 2nd half have a 3 goal lead.
Paige Wakefield heads home to make it 3-0 to Colchester
 Laura Guyon is introduced to the action for Colchester. The Silver End defence is busy Colchester keep coming forwards, Fitzpatrick plays the ball into the area from the right side, Osborne defends well up against Box the ball pops free Brewis-Shephard is interested, Head goes up against her the close range effort blocked. 
  GOAL! A 4th goal for Colchester, Jones the scorer the ball with her on the left side high up the pitch sends in a high looping cross into the area, a difficult one for the keeper to deal with dropping down right under her crossbar dips late can’t get anything on it as it hits the ground and bounces over the goal line at the far stick.4-0.
 
Changes for both sides, Paula Drane and Nikita Walker come on for Silver End. Bamber comes back on for Colchester in place of Box. Silver End have had little of the attack 2nd half Hollocks wants to get the ball forwards, Walker looks to provide a run get into the box from the right side, the ball is sent up into the box, bounces through to Runnacles before Walker can get to it.
Amy Evans looks to get the ball forwards for Silver End United Ladies
 Wakefield picks up an injury after a challenge in the middle limps off for Colchester, Box sent back on. Bamber has the ball on the left, Box inside her is played in taking the ball into the area Evans tracking back does well to defend ease her off the ball. Hollocks knicks the ball off the Colchester defence on the left side looks to carry the ball into the area, Smith now in defence gets across to block her strike deflects the ball behind for a corner. The corner comes in central Runnacles calls for it and claims unchallenged.
Michelle Taylor comes on for Silver End, Bailess going off. The Silver End defence has battled hard 2nd half putting in alot of effort to try and stop the Colchester advance the game beyond them as it moves into the final minutes the back 4, Head, Osborne, Gardener and Raby come off, Bowman, Henderson, Bailess and Cowell come back on look to have a go late on Hollocks playing it long out to Bowman on the right her 1st time cross whipped into the box is cleared by Blacklock. Bowman has an opportunity to strike from distance the ball doesn’t trouble Runnacles.
  The final whistle blows and Colchester Town Ladies win the ERWFL League Cup beating Silver End United Ladies 4-0. A strong 2nd half performance seeing them add 3 more goals to their half-time lead, gave the Division One East side little opportunity up the other end. A spirited performance from Silver End United just couldn’t match Colchester 2nd half.
Colchester Town Ladies, 2015/16 ERWFL League Cup Winners 

Congratulations to Colchester Town Ladies on winning the 2015/16 ERWFL League Cup and once again my thanks to the both sides for helping me out with the team details today. An busy but enjoyable day attending the ERWFL Cup Finals day.