Tag Archives: Sprowston Ladies

Match Report – Cup Final Special

Sunday 5th May

Norfolk Ladies League Cup Final

Sprowston Ladies v Tavern Ladies

 A brief rest before moving on to my 2nd game from today’s Norfolk Finals Day, the League Cup itself this season being contested by Sprowston Ladies from Division One taking on Division Two side Tavern Ladies. 

  Before that however the Ladies 7’s final was also taking place this afternoon on the pitch behind the main stadium. A repeat of last season’s final with Costessey Sports taking on Hellesdon Belles. Costessey Sports winning the final 6-2 last season to make it back to back wins were looking for a 3rd successive triumph, the pair drawing 1-1 at half-time, Costessey Sports went on to score twice more in the 2nd half to win the final 3-1 a continue thier dominance in the competition.

   Easy to forget Sprowston Ladies are such a young side having done so well since joining the women’s leagues, alot of the squad together since early youth level have grown together as a team. Pushing Bungay Town Ladies all the way in the title race in Division One last season eventually clinching runners-up spot aswell as winning last season’s League Plate Final. A slower start to the season this time around some rebuilding to be done at the start of the season with a few players moving on to test themselves at a higher level.

  Bringing in youth as is their tradition the squad slowly gained momentum little to be done to stop runaway leaders Thorpe United Ladies, Sprowston nevertheless climbing the table to reach 2nd as they completed their league fixtures. Have since dropped to 3rd with Gorleston Ladies overhauling them to finish runners-up. At finals day yet again saving some of their best form for the League Cup. Victoria Leyer once again top scorer with 28 goals so far this season.

Dereham based, Tavern Ladies are firmly amongst the sides challenging for promotion in Division Two, in 2nd position tied on points with Fakenham Town Ladies who have a game in hand, both looking to finish 2nd in the league the pendulum swinging back and fourth with a handful of games left. Have been in great form after making a losing start, scoring plenty of goals along the way. 74 goals between attackers Atlanta Griffith and Katie Hart-Copsey. Griffith with 23 of those whilst Hart-Copsey has scored an incredible 51 goals to date. The only side to defeat league champions Taverham Women United on their way to the Division Two title. A great run to reach the League Cup Final including knocking out the Division One champions, Thorpe United Ladies.

Road to the Final

  A bye for Sprowston in the first round of the competition. Tavern Ladies were at their Scarning Playing Fields home taking on fellow Division Two side Bulldogs Ladies a comfortable 7-1 win seeing them progress.

  Sprowston beginning their league Cup campaign in the 2nd Round in the New Year away to fellow Division One side Aylsham Ladies who had shown great form in the first half of the season. There to watch as Sprowston put in a dominant performance to win the game 7-1 with both Amee Kennett and Leyer scoring a brace. Tavern were at home again taking on a fellow Division Two side, Bure Valley Wildcats Ladies, leading 2-0 at half-time Tavern added a further two goals 2nd half to reach the quarter finals.

  Sprowston at home to Division Two title chasers Fakenham Town Ladies, another dominant performance saw them leading 4-0 at half-time, Leyer scoring 5 goals in the match helping them on to a 10-0 victory. Tavern were at home for a 3rd time taking on Hockering Ladies the Division Two side reinstated to the competition after holders Bungay Town Ladies were removed from the competition having infringed the rules. Hockering struggling for numbers all season suffering a big loss with both Griffith and Hart-Copsey scoring 4 goals each on their way to a 12-0 win.

  Into the semi-finals Tavern looking the underdogs in a strong line-up. Sprowston young guns away to the even younger Taverham Women United. 3-1 to the good against the Division Two leaders at half-time, a hat-trick for Abby Hutchin along with another 4 goals for Leyer seeing Sprowston into a 2nd successive final winning the game 8-1. Tavern were at home again taking on Division One leaders Thorpe United Ladies a battling performance seeing the sides all square at 1-1 at half-time Tavern scoring late on in the 2nd half to win the game 2-1 and reach their first ever final.

 We’re still at Plantation Park so nothing has changed from the first game, the rain hasn’t come which is fantastic remaining chilly in the shade the pitch hard dust coming off the surface as the ball is struck. Tavern in particular bringing good support, their the more vocal at least.

Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Evie Tolson, Georgina Belton, Calista Tink (C), Hannah Roe, Ria Drake, Abbi Nobbs, Abby Hutchin, Millie rake, Amee Kennett & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Jade Mundford, Rebecca Basten & Chelsea Brister.

Tavern Ladies starting XI – Zoe Gibbons, Emily Fusco, Danni Lee, Roxy Bailey, Lydia Hooper, Millie Bell (C), Nicole Costin, Meganne Smith, Lucy Kean, Atlanta Griffith & Katie Hart-Copsey. Subs – Natalie Merry, Jordie Head & Gemma Higgot.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Sprowston to get the League Cup final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing orange coloured shirts with black across the top and shoulders, black shorts and orange socks. Tavern lined up opposite with an all blue kit with white trim. Sprowston look to play the ball out to the right, Nicole Costin straight in to win the ball for Tavern cutting the ball out playing it on to Hart-Copsey in attack, Sprowston captain Calista Tink marking her winning the ball.

Victoria Leyer on the attack for Sprowston Ladies

   Atlanta Griffith bringing the ball on through the middle for Tavern looks to send it on for Hart-Copsey pulling away to the left, Georgina Belton across to intercept for Sprowston. Costin with a strike from distance the ball bouncing up off the hard surface, grabbed by Sprowston goalkeeper, Megan Lightfoot. A higher tempo to the game straight away from this mornings match, Tavern taking the game to Sprowston, Griffith with some forceful runs early on has support from Lucy Kean to her right playing the ball to her the cross into the box is long. 

  Abby Hutchin with a strong run with the ball bringing it on covering alot of ground the ball put on into the area for Leyer stopped form shooting by Tavern’s Roxy Bailey pushing her wide Leyer managing to squeeze a cross into the six yard box the ball headed clear. Sprowston win a corner on the right Tink up from the back meeting it near post turned goalwards Tavern with bodies in front of goal scrambling it clear. Hart-Copsey moving left to get onto the ball plays it in field to Griffith 25 yards out she has a shot the ball in comfortable for Lightfoot. 

Atlanta Griffith carrying the ball forwards for Tavern Ladies

 Tink lunging into the tackle blocks Griffith as she gets in to shoot right outside the box. Both sides closing down and press the attack one the ball is won. Nobbs tackling playing the ball up to Leyer in attack, Lydia Hooper putting a foot in to take the ball away from her. Leyer prepared to take players on gets the ball from Amee Kennett on the left bringing it in field lets fly from 20 yards out her effort racing wide across the Tavern goal.

Sprowston Ladies captain, Calista Tink

  Leyer holding the ball up 25 yards out sends it on up the line left for Kennett, Emily Fusco preventing the cross for Tavern. Griffith on the ball attacking right for Tavern 20 yards out squares the cross inside to Hart-Copsey struck first time the shot lacking pace gathered by Lightfoot. The Tavern strikers combining again, Griffith on the right bringing the ball on inside to Hart-Copsey once more shoots from the angle, Lightfoot down at her near post to save. 

Tavern Ladies captain, Millie Bell

  Leyer racing into space on the right channel in behind into the box goalkeeper Zoe Gibbons out to close her down, the Sprowston attacker getting her shot away Gibbons with minimal contact on the ball slowing it down enough as it runs on towards goal to allow Hooper running back to clear the ball off the line. Tavern under pressure Sprowston get bodies forwards on the right winning a corner the ball put in near post headed on by Tink met by Kennett at the back post she smashes a shot in high Gibbons saving tipping the ball over.

  GOAL! From the resulting corner the lead is gained, Tink the target once again the ball sent in towards the near post the defender glancing it on into the middle dropping into a crowded six yard box the ball is driven in towards goal hitting the hoardings behind the net bounces back out, Sprowston after a brief moment of hestitation celebrating the goal, Georgina Belton with the telling touch. 1-0. 20 minutes played.

Sprowston Ladies, Georgina Belton

A change for Sprowston Millie Drake coming off on comes Chelsea Brister. Griffith continues to make threatening runs through the middle played on by captain Millie Bell strikes from 25 yards out a swerving shot caught well by Lightfoot. Belton pushing on up the right for Sprowston the ball crossed into the area Leyer making a near post run, Hooper winning it for Tavern. A nasty looking fall for Kean in the middle as she goes down under challenge landing heavily on her back jars her neck play immediately stopped the trainer rushing on. A pause whilst she is assessed up gingerly looked painful sensibly is brought off for further assessment, Jordie Head the player coming on.

 Hooper and Bailey combine to dispossess Leyer as she tries to force her way through the middle into the box the ball cleared to the right Sprowston keep it alive Kennett to cross in Leyer hooking a shot over from 8 yards out. Rebecca Basten on for Sprowston for Ria Drake. Leyer given time and space 20 yards out to tee up a strike central the ball racing in low pushed away by Gibbons diving to her right. Nobbs onto Hutchin the ball put over the top for Leyer to burst in behind Bailey recovering well to get back across her so shield the ball into her keeper. Tavern doing well competitive, Griffith forwards shooting from distance safely held by Lightfoot, Tavern having nothing inside Sprowston’s box yet with Tink marking Hart-Copsey well.

Tavern Ladies, Lydia Hooper

 Belton brought down by Bell getting on cutting inside from the right a free-kick 25 yards out, Hannah Roe forwards to take, an ambitious effort trying to get the ball to loop in over the keeper near post the ball instead dropping wide. Brister winning a corner right for Sprowston met again by Tink coming near post the attempt turned wide. Costin tracks Hutchin as she tries to get away on the right tackling to regain the ball.

Nicole Costin

 Hutchin upended by Smith central late in the first half a change before it’s taken Smith coming off Kean back on. Mayhem in the box from the free kick put up towards the top of the box Tink heading it down into the middle Leyer latching onto it inside the six yard box left of goal, Gibbons down at her feet the ball almost squeezing through Gibbons plucking it off the line, cleared straight to Brister positioned at the opposite post shoots Gibbons still grounded with a fantastic save throwing herself towards the ball getting a arm up to parry it away, the defence scrambling the ball clear. 

Sprowston’s Chelsea Brister with Tavern’s Danni Lee

 Danni Lee cutting out a ball played inside for the right to prevent Leyer getting into the box. Nobbs winning the ball in the middle on for Leyer 30 yards out has a go the shot held by Gibbons.

Half-time Sprowston Ladies 1-0 Tavern Ladies

  A narrow lead for Sprowston at half-time 1-0 up, could and probably should have had more but for heroic goalkeeping from Gibbons looking solid through the middle Tink, Nobbs, Hutchin and Leyer in attack all doing well. Tavern playing their part however competitive battling for the ball getting forwards whenever they have the ball Griffith with some great runs shots from outside the box not troubling Lightfoot so far. Tavern to get the 2nd half underway the ball put to the right, Tolson closing Fusco down the ball pressed early the ball ending up behind for a goalkick Tavern break as the ball is played long up top for Hart-Copsey to chase, Roe in to tackle the ball wide for a throw in.

Abby Hutchin with Tavern’s Lucy Kean

  Griffith up on the right does well to win Tavern a corner the ball delivered from the right by Hart-Copsey won by Tink for Sprowston inside the box. Getting forwards Hutchin on the ball right plays it inside to Leyer top of the area hooks her first time strike wide of the near post. Kennett bringing the ball forwards left with the diagonal ball central for Leyer 25 yards out, pushed wide by Bailey nevertheless gets a cross away into the box with Tolson after it Gibbons rushing forwards their first to kick clear. 

Leyer lively in attack keeping the Tavern defence on their toes Nobbs putting the ball on into her run, Hooper defending concedes the corner. Players up for the corner ball angled towards the top of the area a shot driven in blocked by Costin comes back out meet by a Sprowston attack the ball sent over the bar. Leyer pressing the defence the ball outside the box running int Tolson central pokes a shot wide of the left post. 

Tavern’s Nicole Costin with Sprowston’s Abby Hutchin

  A free-kick to Tavern on the left into Griffith central has support from Kean getting forwards on her left sending her the pass Kean checks back inside getting a shot away from outside the box. Lightfoot behind it saving comfortably. Sprowston with a corner left taken short the cross put in from the top of the area Tink with the near post run, Hooper going with her blocking her shot. Bell brought down central a free-kick to Tavern, Costin to send it up into the area, Tink winning the header. Sprowston pushing for a 2nd goal Leyer in particular as she drives into the area from the left, checks her run to try and find a half yard to unleash a shot, Bailey putting her body on the line to block. 

  The referee playing the advantage as Kean coming on is fouled by Tink, the ball rebounding in behind Hart-Copsey after it left shooting from the edge of the box a deflection seeing the ball put wide for a corner kick. Sprowston winning the header at the near post the ball sent over the bar. Tavern working hard in defence to keep the scoreline down whilst Costin and Kean try to get on to support Griffith and Hart-Copsey in attack. Belton is down having taken a knock to the ankle cannot continue helped off the field on comes Jade Mundford. 

Tavern’s Katie Hart-Copsey with Sprowston’s Rebecca Basten

  Head on the right for Tavern getting forwards with support from Fusco wins a throw high up the pitch, Griffith then getting Tavern a corner kick. Hart-Copsey making a near post run meeting the ball to hook it towards goal, Lightfoot back on her line claiming the high ball. Hutchin picking up the ball deep allowed to drive on through the middle almost squeezes through in on goal, Bailey in to tackle sends the ball behind. Natalie Merry coming on for Tavern replacing Bell. The game entering the final 15 minutes still just the one goal in it. 

  Costin winning the ball on the right plays it central on for Griffith, Basten closing her down winning the tackle for Sprowston. Millie Drake back on for Sprowston replacing Roe. Costin bringing the ball on right Fusco past her on the overlap receiving the ball crosses into the box, Basten beating Hart-Copsey to the ball. Kean pushing forwards with the ball getting into the box, closed down plays the ball back to Griffith top of the box she strikes a shot up over the bar. 

Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs

  Leyer carrying the ball on right coming inside, Merry sliding in to tackle and win the ball for Tavern look to get the ball up field, Nobbs cutting it out. Fusco’s momentum coming forwards sees her collide with Kennett on halfway a free-kick for Sprowston left Nobbs putting the ball on Tolson breaking clear into the box left Gibbons coming out to close her down, the shot past her defenders racing back Hooper with the clearance. A corner on the left Tavern defend the ball played forwards a late change for Tavern with Gemma Higgott on for Lee little time to make an impact as Sprowston prevent Tavern getting out of their half to see the final whistle blow and celebrate winning this season’s League Cup. 

Full time Sprowston Ladies 1-0 Tavern Ladies

  An entertaining final played at a good tempo both sides committed, Tavern contesting the ball trying to find a reply in the 2nd period having gone a goal down in the first half. Sprowston limiting their opportunities, not able to find a 2nd goal themselves 2nd half half and make the result more comfortable. Sprowston having the better of the chances, Leyer in particular a threat in attack. Tavern with a creditable performance edged out by a single goal.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   A second Women’s Football East – Player of the Match to give this afternoon, several notable performances from both sides. Atlanta Griffith with some great runs with the ball a threat for Tavern, Nicole Costin with some fine tackles in midfield too. For Sprowston Calista Tink strong in defence keeping a close watch on Hart-Copsey especially first half a threat up the other end in the box too. Victoria Leyer pushing forwards in attack always willing to take players on. Abby Hutchin with several storming runs on the ball. The award however goes to Abbi Nobbs the unsung heroine of the side solid in the middle winning the ball and happy for others to take it on in attack, ready whenever possession breaks down.

Congratulations to Sprowston Ladies on winning this season’s Norfolk Ladies League Cup

Sprowston Ladies, 2018/19 Norfolk Ladies League Cup winners

 Another enjoyable day watching the Norfolk Ladies League Plate and Cup Finals, my thanks to everyone for there help this afternoon, the clubs and committee members much appreciated.

Match Report – Aylsham Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Sunday 6th January

Norfolk Ladies League Cup

Happy New Year! The first game of 2019 for Women’s Football East, another great year of football action to look forwards too. A quiet end to 2018 with just the one game watched have missed it and keen to get this year off to a flyer, the action beginning in Norfolk from the 2nd Round of the Ladies League Cup with Aylsham Ladies at home to Sprowston Ladies.

A place in the quarter finals of the competition up for grabs the one remaining tie the other 7 places decided and with half the Division One sides set to be gone from the competition after today’s game a great opportunity awaits the winner of today’s tie.

Aylsham Ladies reformed this season after a brief withdrawal from the league. Managed now by Robert Highe formerly in charge of the Stalham Town Ladies side, he has brought with him a good number from that side with players formerly with North Walsham Angels Ladies also joining the squad has plenty of experience competing in Division One. 8 sides in the league this season Aylsham were one of the early pacesetters neck and neck with Thorpe United Ladies, a dip in results seeing Thorpe who have remained consistent throughout stretch their lead.

Aylsham are second and well clear of the chasing pack, the dynamic of the league changing over the first few months of the season, several teams struggling for numbers early on most have added to their squads and alot closer to one another now, anyone can feel capable of beating anyone on their day as the new year begins.

Sprowston Ladies are 4th in Division One their squad light early on has gotten stronger, this side making their debut in Division One last season were very strong pushing eventual winners Bungay Town Ladies all the way to the title, collected silverware too winning the League Plate. Both sides will be keen to get going in 2019 having both played their last competitive fixture back in November! The two sides drawing 2-2 at Sprowston when they met in October.

Youngs Park the venue for today’s fixture and the first time I’ve been back there since the redeveloped site was opened in 2016. A new housing development close by easier to get to than I remember, a large carpark a large clubhouse with bar and refreshments, beside the main pitch, lots of space for additional practice pitches, a great sporting facility. The weather a pretty dull picture, gloomy and overcast, not too cold mind

Aylsham Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Charlotte Darvill, Hannah Sturman, Megan Champion, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Amber Mayhew, Kerry Wright, Summer Moore, Mary Anne Hoy, Vicky Lubbock & Leanne Symonds. Subs – Jade Knights, Emma Gillespie & Abbie Charlton.

Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Paige Barnard, Ria Drake, Calista Tink, Georgina Belton, Abbi Nobbs, Melissa Anderson, Amee Kennett, Abby Hutchin, Chelsea Brister & Vicky Leyer. Subs – Rebecca Basten, Jade Mundford & Evie Tolson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

8 teams in the league, 3 of them play in orange. Aylsham as the home side wearing there first choice colours, orange shirts and socks with blue shorts. Sprowston wearing black shirts today with orange shorts and black socks. It’s Aylsham with the kick-off 1st half. The visitors press the ball straight away Abbi Nobbs getting hold of the ball for Sprowston, played forwards cut out by Aylsham’s Sophie-Jayne O’Connor.

Vicky Leyer with the ball at her feet for Sprowston inside the Aylsham half central played on down the left for Amee Kennett to chase, Hannah Sturman across her for Aylsham sees the ball out for a goal kick. Sturman with some good defensive work soon after as Kennett given the ball left side looks to turn inside get into the area the Aylsham defender getting in a good challenge.

Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs

Abby Hutchin getting forwards with the 1st goalwards attempt for Sprowston her low ball gathered easily by Aylsham goalkeeper Katie Clarke. A good start to the game from the visitors Sprowston attacking have the ball inside the Aylsham half making in difficult for the hosts to counter.

GOAL! Sprowston capitalise on their good start by taking an early lead in the match attacking right side Chelsea Brister on the ball down the line plays it back of Hutchin behind her she sends a cross along the top of the six yard box Leyer central send the ball on for Kennett closing in at the far post she sends a shot back across the goal and scores 0-1.

Amee Kennett opens the scoring for Sprowston Ladies

Aylsham look for an immediate response the ball forwards into Vicki Lubbock right channel her ball forwards cut out by Ria Drake, the visitors counter the ball forwards finding Leyer top of the centre circle is clear running in towards goal, the flag is up however and when eventually spotted her run ended.

Clarke does well coming early to kick the ball clear as Hutchin making a great run through the left channel is almost played in on goal. The passes not coming off for Aylsham frustration in the early part of the game as Sprowston continue with their energetic game. Amber Mayhew bringing the ball forwards fro Aylsham looks to set up Lubbock as she moves with her to the right the Sprowston defence regaining possession.

Aylsham Ladies, Amber Mayhew

Mary Anne Hoy flicking the ball on down the left wing gives chase tries to tie up Leanne Symonds in the middle, the best the attacker can do is win a throw as Georgina Belton slides in with her in win the ball. Sturman with more good defensive work inside the box the deny Kennett a shot as she turns inside. Charlotte Darvill defends for Aylsham as Sprowston try to double up on her at left back Hutchin with the run into space on her right with Leyer holding up the ball.

Paige Barnard has a long throw in her arsenal and uses it to good effect for Sprowston on the right the ball into the box causing problems, Megan Champion clearing for Aylsham. Barnard likes to charge forwards with the ball at her feet too a good run from half way is ended as her heels are clipped 25 yards out Sprowston winning the free-kick. The ball flighted into the box headed down out of the area the defensive clearance dropping straight to Hutchin outside the box, shoots her looping effort straight at Clarke well placed in the Aylsham goal.

Paige Barnard on the attack for Sprowston Ladies

Aylsham haven’t registered a shot on target yet are struggling to get anything going in the final third, Summer Moore gathering the ball into her feet inside her opponents half looks to plough her way towards the box, eventually after three challenges Sprowston manage to stop her.

GOAL! From the resulting counter attack Sprowston get the ball up the other end and score to double their lead the ball played direct up through the middle Hutchin picking it up carrying it on into the area, Sturman managing to get in the challenge on her takes the ball away from her Kennett free behind Hutchin coming in from the left onto the loose ball sends her shot from outside the box up over the keeper to score her 2nd of the match 0-2. 

A change for Sprowston, Brister coming off a straight swap on the right with Evie Tolson coming on. 25 minutes played. Sprowston remain strong in attack numbers forward win a throw deep on the right, Barnard to take the long throw, drops to Leyer inside the area right side holds the ball up well before trying to tie up Hutchin top of the area central her shot blocked by Moore the deflected ball racing out to Melissa Anderson positioned left she 1st time shot over the bar.

GOAL! A mix up at the back sees the visitors score a third goal. The ball played up over the top with Tolson the target right side, Darvill to it first as it runs into the box, the keeper calls aiming to clear it as she advances, defender and goalkeeper too close to each other as she does the ball unfortunately striking Darvill rebounds behind both into Tolson who has an empty net in front of her scores her 1st goal for Sprowston in just her 2nd appearance.

Darvill getting forwards for Aylsham tries to link up with Hoy on the left the pair gain ground on the wing before Barnard slides in with the tackle to win the ball. Sprowston counter Hutchin running into the space vacated by Darvill right side to the by line her cross in low towards the near post taken well by Clarke. Aylsham’s turn to counter quick to get the ball forwards into Symonds left of goal across the top of the area into Lubbock, Belton sliding in on her as she shoots the ball looping up over the bar a corner awarded, the ball near side defended.

GOAL! 35 minutes gone and Sprowston add to their lead Nobbs on for Hutchin breaking forwards a good run through the middle sends it on for Leyer bursting clear into the area moving right away from goal gets a shot away wrong footing the keeper moving to close down the angle the ball back across her and into the far bottom corner 0-4.

Vicky Leyer holding the ball up inside the box for Sprowston Ladies

A free-kick for Sprowston awarded on the left side 35 yards players up from the back as the ball is played diagonally across to Hutchin moving in from the right 20 yards out her shot blocked… by Tink.

GOAL! A late life line for Aylsham in the first half as they are awarded a penalty. Mayhew getting the ball forwards into Symonds getting into space on the right her cross squared into Lubbock top of the area she is upended as she goes to receive the ball the referee pointing to the spot. Lubbock gets up to take, a well taken effort placed to her right pulls a goal back for the home side 1-4.

Vicky Lubbock scores from the penalty spot for Aylsham Ladies

A double change for Aylsham in the cards before the penalty and with it a change of formation 3-5-3 now with Darvill and Moore coming off for Abbie Charlton and Emma Gillespie. Little time left in the first half for the changes to take effect, Sprowston press on the ball from Hutchin up to Leyer running right sends a cross along the face of goal into Kennett a chance for a hat-trick the ball bouncing the attempt screwed wide.

Half-time Aylsham Ladies 1-4 Sprowston Ladies

A strong first half from Sprowston, an early goal pressed the ball well inside their opponents half making it difficult for Aylsham to get anything going in attack, frustrated Sprowston capitalised getting into a 4-0 lead. Chances few and far between for Aylsham a goal back late on gives them something but know they have alot of work to do if they are to get themselves back into the game 2nd half.

Sprowston’s Calista Tink with Aylsham’s Leanne Symonds

Another change at half-time for Aylsham, Moore on for Sturman. Sprowston to get the 2nd 45 underway. Aylsham need to start on the front foot, Anderson though wins the ball for Sprowston on for Leyer central drives on, Champion tacking her and winning the ball for Aylsham spins away to the right Wright doing well too in defence before Clarke lays claim to the ball.

Aylsham much more positive at the start of the 2nd half pushing on Symonds winning a throw on the right as Lubbock sends the pass down the line. Champion winning the ball inside her opponents half pushes forwards on for Symonds looks to turn inside tackled by Tink.

Megan Champion with the ball for Aylsham Ladies

A second penalty awarded to Aylsham early in the 2nd half the ball played into Lubbock standing just inside the box a kick out at her calves spotted. 4-2 now and it’s a huge boost for the hosts Lubbock to take again, missed the ball lifted over this time.

Aylsham regroup push on Moore plays the pass out to Lubbock right side as she looks to combine with Symonds the cross into the six yard box Charlton the target far post the ball headed clear of the area collected by Hoy left side 20 yards out her strike wide. Lubbock with a 30 yard attempt on target Megan Lightfoot in the Sprowston goal back on her line claims the ball firmly over her head.

All Aylsham at the start of the 2nd half Sprowston with the 3 goal advantage soaking up the pressure. Lubbock with more support around her influential on the ball spins the pass out to Symonds right her looping cross falling central Mayhew forwards lays the ball off for Lubbock drifting in central top of the area her snap shot pulled wide.

Sprowston always ready to launch a counter Hutchin a good run forwards played in on goal into the box closing in on the keeper Clarke saves well at close range the ball pushed straight back into Hutchin’s path she tries to adjust place her shot wide of the keeper but Champion is back to clear for Aylsham.

Leyer holding the ball up for Sprowston brings Barnard into play as she bursts forwards on the right side, Wright reading the threat in quickly to put in the tackle deny a cross. A chance fro Sprowston Drake the player off, on comes Rebecca Basten. Tink intercepts at the back for Sprowston as Symonds aims to put Lubbock through. The final ball just not happening for Aylsham this afternoon.

Kennett with the ball at her feet on the left wing for Sprowston pushes on lays the pass on for Leyer 25 yards out she checks inside shapes to send a shot towards the top corner the ball flying wide of the upright.

GOAL! Leyer does score soon after Sprowston have ridden out Aylsham’s early pressure 2nd half find space in attack Kennett central with the run and shot 25 yards out the ball blocked manages to squirm it’s way through into the box for Leyer drifting free left of goal 8 yards out shoots her strike back across Clarke diving full stretched does well to get glove on it but the touch not enough to keep it out of the back of the net Leyer with her 2nd of the game 1-5.

Another chance for Sprowston with Jade Mundford coming on. Jade Knights on for Aylsham replacing Mayhew. Lubbock wins Aylsham a corner on the right side the ball into the area defended the half clearance straight to Charlton running onto the ball no time to control a shot too many bodies in front of her the rebound falling to Champion top of the area her shot runs wide.

Sprowston hit on the counter right side Leyer on the ball checks in field again shapes to shoot, this time Wright is in her face before she can unleash a strike tackling wins the ball. Champion back behind her keeper to clear the ball again as Clarke does well saving against Leyer at close range.

GOAL! Closing in on the final 15 minutes and Sprowston extend their lead with Aylsham pushing forwards gaps are opening up at the back as they tire Leyer a willing runner is played in Clarke sets herself making the save as she strikes the ball hard from the top of the area left of the D the ball racing out to the right Hutchin the player getting ahead of the Aylsham defence to meet t blasts a low strike from the top of the area into the back of the goal 1-6.

Abby Hutchin the goalscorer for Sprowston

GOAL! A further hammer blow for Aylsham moments later as Sprowston go on to add a 7th from a corner. Won on the right, Tink with the near post run isn’t picked up six yards out gets a free header turning the ball on towards goal and into the back of the net 1-7.

Aylsham are tiring has been a frustrating afternoon, not happening in front of goal, Sprowston press on late on remain full of energy. Anderson in to win the ball in the middle, out to Barnard running on right side the ball in field to Leyer cut out by Champion.

GOAL! a penalty awarded late in the game going Sprowston’s way this time. Plenty of options for the visitors leading 7-1 up to take it central defender Belton, A well taken effort wide into the side netting to her right scores her 1st goal for the side 1-8. 

Sprowston press on late on the wind gone from Aylsham’s sails, Hutchin with a strike from 25 yards out runs wide of goal. The final whistle blows and Sprowston progress to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a convincing win.

Full time Aylsham Ladies 1-8 Sprowston Ladies

A comprehensive win for Sprowston Ladies in the finish reaching the last 8 of the League Cup, a great win to start 2019. Strong from the start an early goal setting them on their way pressed well inside their opponents half. Raced into a 4-0 lead, Aylsham out of sorts poor in the first half hour got a life line from the penalty spot 4-1 at the break needed an early goal 2nd half and despite starting well it didn’t come. Sprowston always ready to counter having soaked up the pressure added a further 4 goals. A confidence boosting result for the visitors the opposite for Aylsham not the start to the year they were looking for but no doubt out of character, know alot of these players from watching them before are better and will regather and bounce back.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award for 2019. From the outset I had an early contender. Sprowston dominated the first half, soaked up some pressure 2nd half before ending strong, Vicky Leyer pushing for it towards the end the award today however goes to Abby Hutchin made some great runs from midfield to join the attack get ahead of play early on and maintained that throughout the game a constant threat adding a goal too.

Good to get a game in after a month and thrust me I needed it too after the weekend I’ve had, the best medicine great to see both teams in action. My thanks as always for the help with the teams. The draw for the Norfolk Ladies League Cup quarter finals will be made soon keep an eye on the @NWGFL twitter account for all the details.

Norfolk Finals Day – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final

Sunday 6th May

 The cup final action on Women’s Football East continues this Sunday with a double bill from Norfolk, later on the Ladies League Cup Final but first up an 11am kick-off for the Ladies Plate Final this season being contested by previous Plate winners, North Walsham Angels Ladies taking on Sprowston Ladies.

 The sides entering the Norfolk Ladies League Plate after being knocked out of the early rounds in the League Cup.

 North Walsham Angels Ladies were the 1st ever winners of the Norfolk Ladies League Plate competition when it was 1st introduced in the 2015/16 season, beat Red Rose 4-0 to lift the Plate. Into the Plate Final once again looking to end the season on a high. Having gotten off to a promising start in the Norfolk Women’s Division One this season had suffered from a period with a lack of games losing momentum results since have been inconsistent. Haven’t scored as many goals as last year, the Middleton sisters Luci & Hope netting 69 goals between them last season. 

 Sprowston Ladies step up to the league from U16 football and have adapted to women’s football very well, leading the table early on have kept up their in contention all season dropping to 2nd as Bungay Town Ladies overhaul them 3 points ahead with one more to play win that and even maximum points for Sprowston’s remaining 2 games will most likely not be enough with Bungay having a superior goal difference. Bungay’s last game is this coming Thursday at home to Gorleston FC Ladies, after that result Sprowston will know what they have to do. Runners-up spot in their debut season is most certainly on. Bungay slip up and who knows. On top of that were also semi-finalists in this years People’s FA Cup having been amongst the winners season before.

Road to the Final

  Both sides were knocked out of the League Cup by Stalham Town Ladies, Sprowston 1st Round then North Walsham fell to defeat in the 2nd Round. A bye for Sprowston in the 1st Round of the Plate competition. North Walsham were 4-0 away winners against fellow Division One side Long Stratton Ladies.

  It was North Walsham’s turn to progress without kicking a ball in the quarter finals awarded the away win against Costessey Sports Ladies. Sprowston were at home against Division Two title chasers Beccles Town Ladies. A comfortable 6-0 win seeing them into the last 4 of the competition.

  North Walsham were scheduled to play Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies in the semi-finals nut once again their opponents pulled out meaning North Walsham as much as they’d have rather played the game were into the final. Sprowston were taken all the way to penalties by their semi-final opponents Wymondham Ladies Reserves. Both sides getting a goal in the first half couldn’t be separated the game going to a shootout Sprowston celebrating in the finish reaching the final with a 3-2 win.

The venue for today’s Norfolk Ladies League Plate & Cup Finals aswell as the Final of the Women’s 7’s between Hellesdon Belles & Costessey Sports Ladies, once again Plantation Park, home Norwich United and Norwich City Ladies. It was again another beautiful sunny day for the Final’s got sun burnt last year, pretty sure it’ll happen this time around too, always have to burn before I’ll get a tan. Not a cloud in the sky, cool in the shady spots thankfully. The pitch looking fairly dry and firm offers plenty of width. Been a while since I’ve been to the ground, new dugouts replacing the old brick ones. 

North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI – Jade Knight, Lauren Yarham, Gemma Newell, Hannah Sturman, Robyn Johnston, Sian Wager (C), Charlotte Darvill, Abbie Storey, Rachel Bussey, Mary-Anne Hoy & Luci Middleton. Subs – Emma Faux, Hope Middleton & Alice Wardle.

Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Jade Mundford, Ria Drake, Paige Barnard, Calista Tink, Chelsea Brister, Abbi Nobbs, Rebecca Russell, Abby Hutchin (C), Chelsea Pettifer & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Becky Greenslade & Jenny Trenholm.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Sprowston to kick off the Plate Final wearing orange shirts with black across the right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts with orange and black hooped socks. North Walsham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. Sprowston attack down the left wing the ball played into the top of the area North Walsham defend the rebound picked up by Sprowston’s Victoria Leyer she strikes the ball form 20 yards out Jade Knight in the North Walsham goal can see it out wide across the six yard box.

   A free-kick on the halfway line for Sprowston, Calista Tink over the ball plays it long up to the left wing, Lauren Yarham defending for North Walsham prevents a cross coming into the box. Abbi Storey winning the ball in the midfield for North Walsham looks to play the ball out to the right wing the pass cut out the ball is gathered by North Walsham captain Sian Wager breaking forwards has a strike from distance her effort sent wide of goal. 

Sprowston Ladies, Calista Tink

  Ria Drake cuts the ball out on the right as North Walsham look to build an attack a throw in North Walsham work the ball towards the Sprowston box, Wager playing the ball into the middle of the D, Mary-Anne Hoy seeing the ball into her feet spins away to the left getting into a shooting position inside the area pulls the trigger, Sprowston goalkeeper, Megan Lightfoot making a great save diving to her right to get her glove on the low ball. 

 A good start to the match from North Walsham as they attack Luci Middleton getting played in behind the Sprowston defence sends her strike from 20 yards out past the advancing keeper, cheers go up from the crowd but they are premature as the ball strikes the base of the post and bounces out across the face of goal, Hoy racing in to latch onto it, a Sprowston defender gets back in the nick of time to slide in and take the ball away for a corner kick.

North Walsham Angels Ladies, Luci Middleton

 A lively start to the game North Walsham showing attacking intent, Sprowston defend the corner kick and launch a rapid counter attack Leyer going after the ball played up the line right side, Charlotte Darvill getting back on her to tackle and put the ball out for a throw. Another free-kick on halfway for Sprowston a good delivery from Tink up towards the left corner of the area the ball headed down, Rebecca Russell getting hold of it drives forwards into the box, North Walsham quick to close her down the ball cleared. 

Sprowston Ladies, Abbi Nobbs

  Abbi Nobbs with a good tackle to break up the attack as North Walsham come through the middle Johnston on for Wager. Wager coming inside from a throw in on the left inside the Sprowston half has another pop at goal from 30 yards out her strike on target drops safely into the arms of Lightfoot coming across to her right post. 

North Walsham captain, Sian Wager about to strike the ball

  GOAL! A free-kick awarded to Sprowston in a dangerous area just outside the area, as Jenny Tranholm is clipped in a coming together of legs as she looks to break through on goal feed the ball by Leyer through the middle. Russell positions the ball left side of the D half a yard outside the area, drills a low strike in past the wall evading everyone as it races into the bottom corner bouncing back out of the net as it strike the read supporting post 0-1.

Rebecca Russell’s free-kick finds its way into the bottom corner to give Sprowston the lead

 North Walsham making a change Emma Faux joining the action. Faux with an early opportunity to get the ball forwards brings it on before trying to release Hoy coming in from the left into the area, the ball claimed by Lightfoot. Hutchin with a strong run forwards on the left for Sprowston, Yarham slowing her down the ball put inside for Russell slid forwards into the box Leyer the target, Hannah Sturman cutting it out for North Walsham. 

Sprowston goalscorer, Rebecca Russell

  A bit of ping ball in the middle of the park results in the ball popping over the North Walsham defence, Leyer after in a chase towards the box Darvill on her shoulder, Reaching the top of the area Leyer shoots Knight having started to come stands tall saves with her legs as the ball comes at her quickly. Leyer played on through the middle is adjudged to bring North Walsham’s Darvill down as the pair come together as they race for the box, play pulled back even as Leyer puts the ball into the back of the net.

Sprowston work the ball on through the middle Russell on for Leyer, Pettifer to her right, Sturman winning it back for North Walsham as the 1st half moves into the final 5 minutes. Yarham getting forwards on the right collides with Lightfoot at the corner of the area as both slide in on the ball. Play stretched late on Darvill getting forwards on the left for North Walsham is tackled the ball out for a throw into the middle Sprowston counter the ball on for Russell breaking forwards, Sturman stepping out of the back line to put in the challenge. 

Sprowston’s Chelsea Pettifer with North Walsham’s Abbie Storey

Into stoppage time North Walsham on the attack, Lightfoot just about getting hold of a ball played into her area from a free-kick wide left. North Walsham regaining possession Hoy out on the left tries to get a cross in the ball cut out comes to Darvill she plays a good delivery into the area Middleton rising in the middle of the box in front of goal puts her header straight at Lightfoot the goalkeeper holding onto the ball.  

Half-time Sprowston Ladies 1-0 North Walsham Angels Ladies

  An entertaining opening 45 minutes of this season Norfolk Ladies Plate Final. North Walsham have had the better chances to score but it’s Sprowston who have take theirs to lead the game 1-0 at the break. North Walsham starting brightly Lightfoot with a smart save, the woodwork struck too. Sprowston getting the ball forwards well haven’t had many clear chances at goal, taking advantage of the set-piece awarded to them to open the scoring. Promises to be a close 2nd half.

North Walsham to kick-off the 2nd half, have Hope Middleton on the right in place of Bussey. A throw on the right fro North Walsham inside the Sprowston half Luci Middleton attempting to turn inside get into the box Paige Barnard with a good tackle to stop her. Faux bringing the ball on through the middle moving right sends it on for Hope Middleton up the line her cross in near post initially cut out Luci Middleton going to retrieve right of goal on the six yard box spins and sends a high ball back in towards goal, Barnard up to head the ball behind for the corner.

North Walsham Angels Ladies, Gemma Newell

   Sprowston with possession on the right, Newell conceding the throw in played inside to Leyer right corner outside the area sees the ball into her feet turns and shoots her effort over the goal. Leyer with a run centrally on the ball, closed down plays it on for Russell right side her shot from outside the box charged down. Johnston off for North Walsham Storey back on. Hutchin with a run inside from the left the ball sent into the box gathered by Knight. 

  Progress up the pitch on the left North Walsham get a throw in the ball helped on into the area for a moment Hope Middleton is in the clear baring down on goal, Drake getting back on her with the touch to take the ball from the striker, Lightfoot getting hold of it. Good defensive work at the other end from Yarham as the ball is played through the middle, both Hutchin and Leyer going for it for Sprowston. 

  GOAL! 20 minutes played in the 2nd half and North Walsham find the equalising goal. Storey with the assist through the middle picking the ball up and sending it through for Hope Middleton making the central run Lightfoot comes rushing out to the edge of the area Middleton shooting getting the ball past her and into the back of the empty net 1-1. 

Sprowston’s Paige Barnard with North Walsham’s Hope Middleton

  Lightfoot with a good save under pressure as she is closed down by Luci Middleton at her near post the striker looking to get onto the end of a high ball into the area from Hope Middleton top of the area the keeper coming and punching the ball off her head, then dropping down to claim it before Middleton can react. 

 GOAL! 3 minutes after losing their lead Sprowston get themselves back into the lead. Leyer with the strike as she runs into space behind the North Walsham defence as the ball is pressed in the middle, shooting from 25 yards out drives the ball across the keeper into the back of the net 2-1.

Victoria Leyer restores Sprowston Ladies lead

  Johnston is back on for North Walsham. A good tempo to the match both sides closing the ball down. Faux onto Johnston out to Hope Middleton right side, Drake challenging getting the ball back. Hutchin driving at the North Walsham defence gets inside looking to slide the ball into the area for Leyer, Yarham can let it go through to the keeper. Bussey back on for North Walsham, Becky Greenslade on for Sprowston. 

Hannah Sturman clears the ball for North Walsham Angels Ladies

  Brister does well for Sprowston at the back up against Luci Middleton trying to get a shot away as she gets into the box. Yarham intercepting at the back as Russell looks to put her in behind. PENALTY! Bussey central on for Luci Middleton to her right gets into the area tries to turn make room for a shot is clipped by Pettifer the spot kick given. Bussey to take it driven in low too close to Lightfoot who guesses right down low shifting to her right makes the save the ball looping up off her Luci Middleton quickest to react getting her foot under the ball sends it across the six yard box.

  A save up the other end moment later, Leyer with a run on the left coming into towards goal tries to slot the ball past Knight the keeper making the save. That’s it the final whistle blows a save from the penalty spot by Lightfoot in the closing minutes keeping Sprowston’s 2-1 lead in tact they they win there first piece of silverware.

Full time Sprowston Ladies 2-1 North Walsham Angels Ladies

  A narrow win for Sprowston Ladies taking their chances and holding out late on North Walsham coming close to forcing the Final into extra-time. An entertaining game two lively and well matched sides. North Walsham will feel disappointed created more chances than their opponents just weren’t converted into goals. Sprowston having an excellent season with such a young side adapting to the women’s league very well have a tremendous work-rate and an abundance of energy. Getting back on players when it looks like they have gotten away from them.  

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Picking the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match for this one is incredibly tough everyone put in a shift today for both sides. Abbie Storey in midfield for North Walsham making some important tackles and playing it forwards was impressive. The award however goes to Sprowston’s Paige Barnard strong in the middle of defence or coming out wide to prevent a cross. Play was turned around so quickly at times there was only time to write 16 stops… before your attention has to go down the other end of the pitch.

Sprowston Ladies 2017/18 Norfolk Ladies League Plate Winners

  Congratulation’s to Sprowston Ladies on winning this season’s Norfolk Ladies League Plate Final.

  One final down one to come. My thanks to both clubs for there help with the teams. Good to catch up with both.

 

Match Report – Stalham Town Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

Sunday 29th October

First match report for a fortnight, rearing to go again after illness forced a couple of weekends rest. The action comes from Norfolk this Sunday in Division One with 4th placed Stalham Town Ladies hosting top of the table Sprowston Ladies.

The Norfolk Women’s football league reverting back to 2 divisions this season having previously been 3. With several new sides joining the league this season the revamp sees most of the sides playing in Division Two last season promoted to Division One, Stalham Town Ladies and Sprowston amongst them.

Both have started the season very well. Stalham Town Ladies recovering from a heavy defeat on the opening day of the season have gone unbeaten in the league since winning 2 and drawing their other game to move into 4th position in the table on 7 points, very tight at the top with 3 points separating the top 4. 2nd and 3rd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies the defending champions also meeting today.

Sprowston Ladies top of the table on 10 points undefeated from their opening 4 league games 3 wins and a draw. Sprowston have two sides in the Norfolk leagues this season. FC Sprowston Ladies are currently top of Division Two, but are not a reserve side, both sides standing on their own right. League Plate finalists last season went on to win the People’s FA Cup. A very strong youth set-up at the club too most of this Sprowston Ladies side from their U16s last season.

The two sides met in the Ladies League Cup 3 weeks ago Stalham Town at home then too knocking Sprowston out with a 2-1 win.

The venue for today’s game Rivers Park home for both Stalham Town FC’s mens and women’s sides. A large pitch elevated from the surrounding car parking area. The weather getting alot cooler as the clocks go back, cloud in the sky a threat of rain, a strong and chilly breeze blowing across the pitch which might influence play as the two sides emerged from the changing rooms for kick-off.  

Stalham Town Ladies starting XI – Katie Clarke, Lauren Bunstead, Charlotte Crane, Megan Meale, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor, Kerry Wright (C), Sophie Burr-Walpole, Vicki Lubbock, Amber Mayhew, Millie Cursons & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Chloe Yarham, Megan Bonham & Abbie Charlton.

Sprowston Ladies starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Jenny Tranholm, Rea Drake, Calista Tink, Beth Cornwall, Nicole Smith, Rebecca Russell, Abby Hutchin (C), Chelsea Pettifer, Thea Hackney & Victoria Leyer. Subs – Georgia Cushion, Paige Barnard & Jade Mundford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   It’s Stalham to kick-off the 1st half wearing an all red kit with Sprowston lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with black across right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts with black and orange hooped socks. Pressing the ball right from the start Sprowston make ground up the left wing Victoria Leyer looking to link up with Rebecca Russell going forwards, Stalham’s Charlotte Crane defending that side does well to prevent the cross puts the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball from the throw Stalham counter attack the ball long for Millie Cursons to chase down on the right taking the ball into the corner wins a throw in this brings the 1st corner of the game Megan Meale coming forwards to take fired in near post Sprowston defend headed back out to Meale her 2nd ball in deflected behind for the goal kick.

Charlotte Crane bringing the ball forwards for Stalham Town Ladies

   Sprowston attack on the right captain Abby Hutchin bringing the ball on knocks it inside for Thea Hackney positioned at the top of the box she looks to return the ball to Hutchin as she drives into the area her touch taking her away from goal holds the ball up looking up sends the past back towards the advancing Nicole Smith the midfielder takes on the 1st tie strike from 25 yards out sends her effort wide of the near post. Lauren Bunstead with a fantastic tackle at left back for Stalham denies Hutchin from getting a cross into the area following another strong run on the ball up the right flank for Sprowston. 

  GOAL! Sprowston win their 1st corner of the game and from take an early lead in the match on the right a great delivery whipped in with pace into the near post a great flick on sees the ball sent in across goal and Chelsea Pettifer is there to get her forehead on the ball and nod the ball down over the line to make it 0-1.

Chelsea Pettifer scorer of the opening goal for Sprowston Ladies

Stalham look to get on the offensive straight from the restart Vicki Lubbock putting the ball out wide right for Cursons holds off her marker getting down the line before firing in a cross high towards the near post, is headed clear by Sprowston centreback Beth Cornwall, Stalham pressure the ball Amber Mayhew back to Cursons the corner is won, delivered to the top of the area Sprowston get it clear a counter attack is on Hutchin bringing the ball on up the left, Stalham captain Kerry Wright with a vital sliding challenge to win the ball.

Hackney sees the ball into her feet 30 yards out for Sprowston the striker looks to turn and drive towards the area from a central position strong on the ball, Sophie-Jayne O’Connor goes with her putting the the challenge inside the box, the ball deflected inside Hackney looks to get after it shoot, O’Connor’s centreback partner Meale gets there first to clear the ball. Sprowston are enjoying more of the ball inside the Stalham half but for all their pressing are finding it difficult to get around the back 4. Hackney looks to take on both Stalham centrebacks once again the door is closed in front of her as both slide in to tackle.

Thea Hackney attacking for Sprowston Ladies

   Pushed back by their opponents Stalham have started the match slowly unable to get their attackers into the game. From a defensive clearance Sophie Lubbock picks up the ball on halfway looks to get clear and run at the Sprowston box is closed down and tackled by Calista Tink. Vicki Lubbock tries her luck from a long way out her attempt not troubling goalkeeper Megan Lightfoot. Leyer pressing the back high up the pitch, Meale’s back pass to goalkeeper Katie Clarke a little short has Hutchin interested she gives chase, Clarke slides in bravely at the top of her area they collide the ball back deflected away for the corner.

Sophie Lubbock looking to attack for Stalham Town Ladies

 Both sides make a change Chloe Yarham coming on for Stalham replacing Wright. Paige Barnard joining the action for Sprowston. Getting plenty of bodies forwards Sprowston have the ball on the left played inside to Hackney top of the area holds the ball up well looks to turn and strike, Amber Mayhew getting back for Stalham is their to close her down put in the tackle gets the ball clear. Russell into Leyer central the striker 25 yards out jinks left then right before striking the shot takes a deflection off Meale taking it wide for the corner kick. 

  Clarke recovers well from an initial poor kick out of her area not getting the height or distance on the ball it’s Hackney who wins the header 25 yards out knocking the ball back in towards the area Leyer is after it, Clarke to getting to the edge of her area to intercept the bouncing ball gets a strong fist on it to send it up field. Sprowston continue to have the momentum the ball with Pettifer left side put infield Smith on for Hutchin right side she takes on the shot from 20 yards out puts the ball into the side netting. Another switch for Sprowston Georgia Cushion coming on for Hackney.

Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell tackled by Stalham’s Vicki Lubbock

  Hestitation between the Stalham centrebacks inside the box almost gifts Sprowston a 2nd goal as both leave it Hutchin steals in between them right of goal 10 yards out more brave goalkeeping from Clarke diving in at the attackers feet the shot blocked however the deflection sees the ball spin on towards goal, a Stalham defender gets back to hook the ball clear of the goal. Up the other end Cursons and Sophie Lubbock aren’t seeing much of the ball can make little impact in attack, the latter tries the flick on for Cursons 25 yards out, Cornwall reading it gets to the ball first to clear.

GOAL! Into the last 3 minutes of the 1st half and Sprowston double their lead. Attacking down the right plenty getting forwards again Stalham defending their box the cross is cut back inside towards Russell inside the D, uncharacteristically as has been the norm for 41 minutes Stalham don’t advance to close her down as Russell shifts the ball to her right to open up the angle and sends her shot curling wide of the diving Clarke into the back of the net 0-2.

 GOAL! Straight from the restart Stalham lose possession of the ball it is sent forwards Leyer racing clear behind the home defence reaches the ball before Clarke racing out of her area can reach in the striker knocking the ball past the keeper and on into the empty net to make it 0-3 a hammer blow for Stalham just before the half-time whistle. 

 

Sprowston Ladies, Victoria Leyer

Half-time Stalham Town Ladies 0-3 Sprowston Ladies

  An excellent end to a dominant 1st half from Sprowston Ladies scoring inside the opening 7 minutes then 2 goals late in the half putting them in control. Have been able to push bodies forwards keeping Stalham pinned back inside their own half. The back four has worked hard for Stalham preventing crosses and players have gone with runners for the whole just unable to get the ball up to their own attackers to put their mark on the game. Two late goals a hammer blow especially the 3rd alot of work to do if they want to get back into the match 2nd half.

The wind has picked up noticeably and gotten a lot colder too, The sun lower in the sky too will be Stalham’s problem 2nd half. Sprowston to get the 2nd half underway. Hutchin is off at the start of the 2nd half for the visitors Barnard now operating on the right in an advanced position with Jade Mundford at right back. Wright is back on in the centre for Stalham replacing Yarham. A quiet start to the 2nd half Burr-Walpole has taken a knock to the back and needs to come off, Yarham returned to the action. 

Stalham Town Ladies, Kerry Wright tackled by Sprowston’s Rebecca Russell

Pettifer is upended looking to bring the ball through the middle a free kick at the top of the centre circle for Sprowston the centreback go forwards the ball delivered into Tink to the left of the D looks to turn is closely marked by O’Connor the ball won. Barnard is sent away on the right Bunstead going to ground tackles well preventing the cross. Pettifer bringing the ball on down the left this time puts an inviting cross into the six yard box, Leyer throws her head at the ball gets a touch Clarke at close range makes a great save to keep the ball out adjusting well as she’d started to move to her right a corner is awarded from the left the ball is cleared up field, Sophie Lubbock with Cursons get the ball up towards right corner of the box Lubbock with a hopefully cross no one fro Stalham in their to challenge for the ball.

   GOAL! Mayhew has made some good forward runs early in the 2nd half for Stalham looking to win the ball higher up the pitch pressing on the left side over halfway wins the ball and brings it on taking it toward the byline holds it up well allowing teammates time to get forwards one of those being Vicki Lubbock getting into the area left of the six yard box, the angle is against her a Mayhew squeezes the pass into her feet the midfielder turns well and sweeps the ball up into the air across the face of goal to drop over the line at the far post 1-3.

Vicki Lubbock pulls it back to 3-1 for Stalham Town Ladies

The goal giving Stalham a little bit of confidence they get the possession of the ball from the restart Wright onto Bunstead picking out Mayhew finding space left side again driving on she fires her cross into the side netting. Sophie Lubbock has the ball takes on the shot from 25 yards out her low drive straight at Lightfoot the keeper gathering cleanly. With Mayhew and Vicki Lubbock getting forwards more Stalham look more of a threat. 

GOAL! Just as the home side are starting to get some momentum in attack however Sprowston get up the other end and restore their 3 goal lead and great strike from Pettifer on the left as she picks up the ball and taking it on lets fly from 25 out her bouncing shot angling wide across the goalkeeper into the far corner for her 2nd of the game to make it 1-4.

Both Hackney and Hutchin return to the pitch for Sprowston. The visitors spring a counter attack from a Stalham corner the ball played long on the right for Hutchin to chase squares her cross along the top of the area Hackney positioned left of the D turns into the shot sees the strike angle away from the far post Clarke coming to gather. Megan Bonham comes for for Stalham. More changes for the home side with Wright and Meale coming off, Burr-Walpole back on along with striker Abbie Charlton.

   A scooped shot from Hackney outside the area as the ball is worked into her from a throw on the left side, Clarke is right behind it the ball dropping safely into her gloves. Bunstead has had a sold game for Stalham at left back shoulder to shoulder with Hutchin as the winger looks to find a way in behind the cross is again denied. 

GOAL! Sprowston further extend their lead this time Hutchin with the ball played into her on the right knocks it on for Leyer running in behind she plays the cross into the Stalham area is knocked outside into the path of Russell left of the D, 20 yards out she sends a thunderbolt racing into the back of the net to make it 1-5.

2 goals in the game for Sprowston Ladies, Rebecca Russell

A fantastic save from Clarke keeps Stalham from going further behind the defence pushed up Leyer nips in to steal the ball runs on into the box, Clarke stays big inside her six yard box as the striker closes her down Leyer looks to slot the ball wide of the keeper instead plays it straight at Clarke who makes a great stop with her feet the ball deflected out to the left the goalkeeper rushes after it colliding with Pettifer, is down needs treatment but after a pause in play is okay to continue. 

Sprowston get the ball forwards right side a viscous cross is whipped into the area, Clarke comes to punch is impeded by her own player misses it, drops for Pettifer far post to strike on the volley catches it wrong the ball screws wide away from goal. Into the latter stages of the game Sprowston in control of the ball the cross from the left into Hackney headed on for Hutchin to her right diverts the ball goalwards Clarke down smartly at her near post touches the ball wide for the corner. 

   Into stoppage time Sprowston with one last attack Hutchin on the right lays the ball on for Smith going past her her cross low into the box finds Hackney a turn and shot drags the ball wide of the near post.

Full time Stalham Town Ladies 1-5 Sprowston Ladies

   A 5-1 win for Sprowston Ladies keeping up their unbeaten start to the season and seeing them stay top of Division One a point clear of Thorpe United Ladies who beat North Walsham Angels Ladies 3-1. A great performance from the visitors getting an early goal and dominating the ball for much of the game scoring 5 goals. A below par performance from Stalham defended well on the whole but pushed back by their opponents couldn’t get the ball into their attackers conceding 2 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half doing the damage going in at 1 nil or even 2 nil at the break might have made all the difference getting a goal back early 2nd half Sprowston were quick to respond. Nevertheless Stalham have enjoyed a good start to the season themselves and will loo to bounce back.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Another tough one today to pick the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, a good all round team performance from Sprowston this afternoon, difficult conditions to play in scoring some quality goals and creating plenty of chances. Picking one out however I have gone for midfielder Rebecca Russell in the heart of the action not often giving the ball away and setting up attacks ahead of her two well taken goals to her name too.

Good to get back into it after a two week layoff even if it was freezing, better get used to that I suppose. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team line ups today and Stalham for the cup of tea. 

Match Report – North Walsham Angels Ladies v Sprowston Ladies

ns5

 This Sunday’s women’s football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from Norfolk. In Division Two a clash between 2nd and 3rd as one of the favourites to win the title, North Walsham Angels Ladies hosted Sprowston Ladies who were on a great run of league form going into this weekends game 4 straight wins which had put them to within a point of their opponents. Click on the link below to take you to the match report.

North Walsham Angels Ladies v Sprowston Ladies