Tag Archives: St Ives Town Ladies

Match Report – St Ives Town Ladies v Thetford Town Ladies

Sunday 13th August

ERWFL Division One North

Here we go again! The new season quickly upon us with the ERWFL getting the ball rolling for the 2023/24 campaign. Promises to be an exciting season ahead and with the Lionesses going strong in the FIFA Women’s World Cup reaching the last 4 the game continues to rise.

 Not quite the restful period I was hoping for am nevertheless ready to go again and besides it never really stops in the footballing community with clubs and managers busy preparing for their next season. Has certainly been alot of movement, most likely an increase in club numbers aswell and certainly the case the ERWFL as the league’s representing the 5th and 6th tiers of the women’s football pyramid reach their full potential in terms of numbers with 11 new names joining taking all three divisions the Premier and Division One’s North and South to 12 sides each.

 Regretfully one side has since been forced to withdraw due to lack of numbers, East Bergholt United Ladies having worked hard to get to the ERWFL always finding it a challenge with a number of strong sides around them to retain players, have always had a good youth set-up and will hopefully return some day in the women’s game. 35 clubs then beginning the new season with Hertford Town Women, Wormley Rovers Ladies, Southend United Ladies, Stanway Pegasus Ladies and Watford Ladies Development joining ERWFL Division One South. Harpenden Town Women, Histon Ladies, Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Ladies, Thetford Town Ladies and Stevenage FC Women Development joining Division One North and where Women’s Football East begins it’s season with St Ives Town Ladies hosting one of the leagues new sides, Thetford Town Ladies.

 St Ives Town Ladies bursting onto the scene formed in 2015 enjoying a rapid rise up the women’s football pyramid, reaching the ERWFL Premier Division. Dropped back into Division One North last season looking to bounce straight back ultimately finishing third in the table along with reaching the Hunts Women’s Cup final for the 2nd successive season. With 7 new sides in the league their may well be several challenging for the title. Some upheaval towards the end of the season with Ben Green departing as manager, with ex-Cambridge United player Emily Ingle joining the club last season taking on taking on the role. Have a trimmed down squad for the 2023/24 campaign while retaining a solid core of experience with a promising youth set-up backing them up their U18’s side winning their league last season with a 100% record. A few of these stepping up to join the first team along with Natalie Munden from the Development side. Olivia Dunne also recruited having previously been with Haverhill Rovers Women.

 Thetford Town Ladies originally missing out on a place in the ERWFL due to the high volume of applications were later given the news they had been successful after another side chose to withdraw. Manager Luke Pickford joining Thetford midway through last season busy in the close season recruiting players to help bolster the squad to play at a higher level. Kamile Omelevicuite and Laura Martins retained having impressed joining the club last season. Added to the squad are Katie Fray and Kate Morris starring for Taverham Women’s 7-aside team last season, Fray scoring an incredible 78 goals in just 18 matches with Morris not doing bad either netting 24. Also joining the attack are Jordanne Sillitoe with plenty of experience in the ERWFL previously with Haverhill, Hannah Claughton the winger dual signed with Aylsham and Maryanne Hoy most recently with Long Stratton Women. With two more new signings joining the defence, Libby O’Callaghan and Fran Peeling who was ERWFL Premier Division side King’s Lynn Town Ladies vice-captain last season. Assistant coach Amber Browne donning the goalkeepers clubs with a long term injury to Millie Askins.

The new playing surface at St Ives

  Starting this season where I ended the last one at Westwood Road home of St Ives Town FC. Back then to attend the last ever Kick Cancer Cup held in memory of Sam Issacson and Charlene Martin both losing their lives to bowel cancer. Many of the St Ives players featuring for the Charlene’s XI squad that won the game on the night raising lots of money for charity. The Westwood Road pitch replaced by a new 3G surface a couple of seasons ago which saw an end to the infamous hill on one corner of the grass pitch. A lovely surface now nice and wide with viewing all round the bar and clubhouse overlooking one side with kitchen hatch serving hot drinks. A small seated stand opposite. A bright sunny afternoon if a little cloudy at times to begin the season all in all good conditions for a match.

St Ives Town Ladies

  St Ives Town Women starting XI – Sarah Aftelak, Sasha Smith, Jess Conyard, Lauren Fort, Koren Evans, Jasmine Cowie, Hannah Seymour-Shove (C), Niamh Sutherland, Katie Stancombe, Olivia Dunne and Maya Edwards. Subs – Elle Jefferson, Natalie Munden, Enya Griffiths and Emily Waterman.

Thetford Town Ladies

 Thetford Town Ladies starting XI – Amber Browne, Elizabeth Moore, Zoe Klimcke, Fran Peeling, Mia Bambury (C), Dayna Howard, Kamile Omeleviciute, Kate Morris, Maryanne Hoy, Katie Fray and Jordanne Sillitoe. Subs – Erin Lloyd, Laura Martins, Amber May, Hannah Rogers & Hannah Claughton.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It’s Thetford to get the game underway kicking off the first half wearing an all claret strip with sky blue trim on the shirts. St Ives lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black vertical striping on the front along with black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back into Dayna Howard in midfield back to Moore on the right of defence shifts inside as Katie Stancombe moves to challenge the ball back for Howard lifted out wide to Maryanne Hoy the the move down the left flank sends the ball inside for Jordanne Sillitoe coming to receive top left corner of the area, she swivels lifting a cross to the far post, Kamile Omeleviciute running in meeting it as it drops on the volley to smash against the base of the right post! Goalkeeper Sarah Aftelak going down for the initial shot able to adjust on the ground the snatch up the loose ball. An early chance for Thetford.

  The visitors feeding off their bright start getting on the front foot pressing St Ives high, Lauren Fort stepping on well to clear the ball inside the D for St Ives look to break hit Thetford on the counter, Fran Peeling backing up to head the ball clear. Sillitoe and Omeleviciute combining through the middle for Thetford the ball laid out to Hoy wide left her cross whipped in to the far post cleared by St Ives, Sasha Smith. Attacking on the left the ball on for Stancombe driving forwards fed into the area for Maya Edwards in behind the defence volleys wide at the near post as she closes down the keeper.

St Ives Maya Edwards looking to take the ball on

   Thetford press high captain Mia Bambury playing the ball into Howard threaded on for Sillitoe, Jess Conyard incepting and clearing for St Ives outside her area. Hannah Seymour-Shove captaining St Ives putting in a good tackle in the middle looking to take the ball on travelling right, Zoe Klimcke out to close her down as Hoy tracks back to defend. Omeleviciute getting on well from the middle for Thetford overloading the attack as the short diagonal ball is rolled into her left of the D puts her foot through the shot clipped goalwards angling in high swerving narrowly wide of the top left corner. 

Zoe Klimcke

  GOAL! Thetford building on their positive start opening the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes, fighting for possession in the final third Sillitoe battles to gain possession 25 yards out with Omeleviciute stealing in behind her taking hold of the loose ball to charge at the goal sliding in under challenge to knock the ball wide of the keeper low into the bottom corner. A brief conversation between referee Charlotte Hindmarch and the linesman however the goal stands 0-1.

Kamile Omeleviciute opening the scoring for Thetford Town Ladies

  Thetford pressing the ball at the back limiting the opportunities for St Ives to get their own attacking players involved in the game. Seymour-Shove working hard to break thing’s up put herself about looking to win the ball preventing Omeleviciute getting forwards with Hoy and Sillitoe breaking in front of her. Not long before Thetford win the ball back however Katie Fray into Sillitoe out to Hoy wide left players tracking back to defend the box, Jasmine Cowie on hand to head the cross clear for St Ives.

St Ives Town Ladies, Jasmine Cowie

   Moore on the right sending the ball on for Morrie on the wing powers forwards with the ball at her feet the shot on the angle put straight into the keepers gloves. St Ives mount an attack sending players on as Cowie lifts the ball long for Evans running on down the right checks back level with the top of the area laying the ball back for Edwards 25 yards out she in turn lifts the ball high into the middle of the area, Peeling under it to head away for the visitors. 

Fran Peeling

  Fray seeing the ball into her feet central turns right of the D looking to take on Fort in the centre of defence the centre back getting her boot in to take the ball away, Thetford getting numbers on however to pressure the ball win a corner on the right. Swung in St Ives defend solidly at the near post. Look to get on the attack Stancombe getting hold of the ball taking it forwards through the middle pace has support from Dunne on her left laying the ball into her strikes it hard from 25 yards out rising the keeper beaten as the ball smashes down off the bar collected by Stancombe outside the box central lines up the strike this time Browne sees it all the way takes it well moving to her left.

Katie Stancombe

  GOAL! No sooner have St Ives struck the woodwork one end Thetford attack up the other and double their lead. The ball played on from the middle to find Omeleviciute on the move right of the D 25 yards out sends the ball into Sillitoe moving across the top of the area dragging the defence to the left before checking back to play the shot low back across the keeper into the opposite corner to score her first Thetford goal 0-2.

Jordanne Sillitoe opening her Thetford account

  Thetford 2 goals to the good inside the opening 20 minutes continue to press inside the St Ives half the ball wide for Hoy taking it on down the left winning her side a corner kick. Sillitoe down for Thetford with a knock as players take on fluids he visitor’s with a double change bringing both Sillitoe and Morris off on come Laura Martins and Hannah Claughton. The corner ball cut out by Dunne inside the box, Seymour-Shove carries it out quickly into the Thetford half her crossfield ball looking for Stancombe cut out well by Moore at the back for Thetford. 

 Fray with a mishit shot from 30 yards out central turns into a great pass for Hoy racing on down the left her cross whipped into the six yard from deep just a little too high for Claughton at the far post, Fray getting hold of it beyond her can only turn the ball into the keeper. Natalie Munden on at the back for St Ives replacing Smith. Evans into block a vicious strike from outside the box as Thetford attack on the right.

St Ives Koren Evans

  Claughton up front getting after the ball eager to run at the defence turning inside from the right, Conyard and Fort between them make her think twice before taking the strike the ball lost. Klimcke out to close down Evans as the St Ives defender looks to run into space on the right. Evans coming off soon after replaced by Enya Griffiths. Stancombe with the ball for St Ives out left charging on squares it inside for Dunne, Omeleviciute tackling well 25 yards out to prevent a shooting opportunity. Seymour-Shove with Sutherland in the middle working the ball all almost through the Thetford defence for Edwards but for Peeling getting a vital touch as she stretches for the ball to take it away from the attacker.

  Cowie off for St Ives, with Elle Jefferson into the action. The hosts getting the ball into Stancombe looking to produce some magic jinking inside the ball rolled into the D, Klimcke stretching to intercept is closed down by Dunne getting inside her to shoot drills a low ball to the left Browne diving low making a fantastic save to claim the ball. St Ives finding a little momentum winning the ball in the middle Seymour-Shove battling for everything on for Edwards has Dunne ahead of her who plays it out for Griffiths wide to the right her cross swept across the goal face hooked behind by Moore to concede the corner kick. Taken short the ball whipped in near post cleared by Omeleviciute. 

St Ives captain, Hannah Seymour-Shove

  Thetford strong in the final third getting after the ball Claughton in to close down the St Ives defence moves across the D to the left before shooting clipped narrowly wide of the top left corner. Hoy latching onto a clearance 30 yards out left side sending the ball back into the area knocked on pass the far post the shot turned back in low caught by Aftelak on the ground. Thetford push forwards Hoy left inside for Fray then Claughton out for Morris wide the shot struck on the angle claimed by Aftelak.

  Morris out on the left firing in a shot on the angle to rattle the bottom of the post. Omelevicuite does well flicking on Browne’s goal kick to send Claughton racing through into the area Seymour-Shove with a burst of pace getting back at her lunging in to tackle winning the ball well. Thetford winning a free-kick inside the St Ives half on the right late in the first half the ball swung into the box by Peeling met by Fray near side on the half volley turned goalwards, Aftelak though right behind it to claim.

Hannah Claughton looking to drive at St Ives Jess Conyard

  Omeleviciute pulling free to the left of the D receiving the ball of Fray to strike a swerving shot into the side netting. Thetford ending the half strong Howard forwards into Fray looks to drive at the defence, sees her shot blocked. 

 GOAL! The ball won back in the middle by Thetford, Howard finding Omeleviciute outside the area left of the D, not closed down sends her shot low across the keeper to nestle into the bottom corner 0-3. 

A 1st half brace for Thetford’s Kamile Omeleviciute

Half-time St Ives Town Women 0-3 Thetford Town Ladies

  A goal at the end of the first half sealing a dominant display from Thetford starting well taking an early lead pressing the ball high St Ives limited in their reply nevertheless creating a couple of chances striking the woodwork before immediately conceding a 2nd goal midway through the first half. Thetford remained on the front foot getting after the ball creating a few chances of their own, St Ives still looking a threat when they were able to take the ball on hit with a 3rd goal before the break. Thetford with a comfortable lead to defend going into the 2nd half, St Ives with things to work on if they wish to get back into the game in the 2nd period.

  A double switch for Thetford at the start of the 2nd half Martins and Sillitoe back on for Morris and Hoy. St Ives to get the 2nd half underway played into Sutherland back for Munden Thetford quick to press the ball played back to the keeper forced into a rushed clearance.

  GOAL! The ball dropping to Omeleviciute 30 yards out floated out to the left flank with Claughton on the attack the ball fizzed into the box near side 12 yards out met by Sillitoe her strike blocked by Fort lunging across her coming to Omeleviciute having burst into the area to lift the loose ball back up over the keeper to score an opening day hat-trick 0-4.

A hat-trick for Kamile Omeleviciute on her ERWFL debut

  A huge blow for St Ives conceding a 4th goal straight at the start of the 2nd half. Give away a free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out to the left of the area, Sillitoe over the ball goes for it sending her strike over the bar. St Ives with a change bringing Evans back on replacing Munden at the back. Martins looking to get on with the ball take it on left side is tackled by Seymour-Shove giving away the free-kick. Peeling over the delivery wide right a teasing ball put into the corridor in front of goal defended by Fort headed out.

Jess Conyard

  Thetford pushing on well with Martins running on to the by-line wide right before sending a cross in low nearside Fray close in on goal turning the ball on across somehow kept out by the St Ives defence comes back to the right post Omeleviciute attempting an audacious overhead kick doesn’t get a strong enough touch the ball caught by Aftelak. 

Katie Fray

  For all of Thetford’s dominating play getting after the ball St Ives remain a threat going forwards themselves looking to expose gaps through the back line the ball put on by Sutherland for Jefferson taking it on right channel holding her marker off well before rifling a shot wide of the near post. Bambury finding Martins going right the ball hit on the diagonal finding the run of Omeleviciute top of the area turns her shot over. 

 Seymour-Shove getting in to tackle Martins turning to play the pass on for Dunne, Moore stepping in to challenge at the back for Thetford. St Ives bringing Cowie back on replacing Sutherland in the middle. Omeleviciute brings down Jefferson bringing St Ives a free-kick central 35 yards out players go up as Seymour-Shove plays it high into the box, Browne keeping her eye on the ball making a clean catch. 

 Fray finding space for Thetford clipping a diagonal pass out for Claughton advancing on the left her cross squared into the area cut out by Fort. Out for a throw left side lifted into Fray inside the area looks to turn on the ball quickly closed down by Stancombe. Thetford quick to regain possession through Howard the ball to Martins right her cross cleared by Griffiths for a corner on the left. Played in low dipping near side met by Claughton looks to flick the ball on towards goal Aftelak with a sharp save at her near post. 

Sarah Aftelak saving off Hannah Claughton’s flick on

 Thetford with a double change with Fray and Klimcke coming off, Erin Lloyd and Amber May sent on with Lloyd going to the right of defence Moore coming left. Conyard off for St Ives, Munden back on. Fort doing well at the back coming in to close down Claughton as she drives into the box with the ball at her fee from the left. The visitors press on the left winning a throw high into May plays it on for Sillitoe breaking on into the box, Fort sticking out a foot snatching the ball off her, out to the left of goal Omelevicuite flashing a shot wide across the face of goal. 

  Griffiths with some pace on the ball out on the right played on by Cowie drives a shot in on the angle held by Browne. Sillitoe from the left taking the ball on into the box shifting left then right before powering a shot wide off the base of the post. Claughton off for Thetford with Hoy back on. St Ives replacing Edwards with Conyard. Munden finding Jefferson up top with a well placed pass, linking up with Griffiths to her right look to play the one two, Moore getting her foot in to regain possession for Thetford.

  GOAL! Players tiring on both sides Thetford win the ball back on halfway with Bambury opens up her body to send the pass on for Martins breaking forwards on the right whips her cross into the six yard box players running in he ball over May central drops for Sillitoe behind to smash the ball past the keeper to make it 0-5.

A opening day brace for Thetford’s Jordanne Sillitoe

 A 5th goal coming with a little under 20 minutes left St Ives finding it difficult to get any meaningful possession inside their opponents half Seymour-Shove continue to fight for everything the ball on for Jefferson out to Griffiths on the right flank taking it on down the line her shot on the angle driven behind. Sillitoe left puts the ball forwards for Hoy on the touchline, Evans getting across her to defend for St Ives conceding the corner. The ball floated in central headed out to the left side with Stancombe looking to break getting in behind wide, Peeling comes rushing across to clear the ball away for a throw.

St Ives Enya Griffiths

  Off the throw Evans puts the ball in across the top of the Thetford area for Jefferson who helps it on for Stancombe to her right the number 17 rifling a shot in Browne throwing herself at it past her comes crashing down off the crossbar for a 2nd time, Browne grounded in a favourable position to take the rebound before Jefferson can meet the follow up.

  Up the other end Aftelak makes a strong blocking save as she comes out to the top of her area to close Sillitoe down as she bursts in behind the hosts defence on the left. May bringing down a diagonal ball into the box shifts inside to shoot, is tackled by Seymour-Shove diving in the ball deflected out to the right post May with a 2nd bite getting her foot under the ball forcing Aftelak into another brilliant save pushing the ball over her goal. 

  GOAL! Thetford though go on to score from the resulting corner the ball curled into the box knocked down by Lloyd off her chest into the path of Omeleviciute central to lift past the keeper and into the back of the net for her 4th goal of the match 0-6.

Erin Lloyd knocking the ball down from the corner for Omeleviciute to score her 4th of the match

 Omeleviciute coming off after her 4th goal to be replaced by Hannah Rogers. Thetford on top pressing the advantage with Martins going on with the ball right side into the box for May who goes out to the by-line right held up before cutting it back into Martins central, slipping as she goes to pull the trigger her shot running harmlessly wide of the far post. 

St Ives still looking to attack catch Thetford sleeping at the back Griffiths taking the ball on right side putting it into the box for Dunne, her effort blocked by Moore. Stancombe charging on with the ball looking for Jefferson through the middle with 9 breaking into the box the final ball just won’t fall as Peeling scrambles it away. Stancombe off late on with Edwards back into the action as the host look for a late flurry, Lloyd lunging into tackle Dunne left of the D as Seymour-Shove rolls the pass into her.

Thetford’s Dayna Howard

 

  May pulling right knocking a diagonal pass down inside for Martins to run onto right channel 25 yards out hit well Aftelak diving to her left but the shot races wide of the post. Aftelak then producing a low save to her right as Sillitoe turns inside to shoot off a throw on on the left, Conyard in to close Sillitoe down then as she goes after the loose ball. One last corner won by St Ives on the right Thetford back to defend as the ball is played short before Griffiths fires the cross wide along the face of goal.

Full time St Ives Town Women 0-6 Thetford Town Ladies

  A great start to life in the ERWFL for Thetford Town Ladies as they begin life in the 6th tier with a dominant victory away from home. Set the tone early getting after the ball high up the pitch putting the home defence on the back foot scoring and early goal. St Ives coming close to equalising denied by the woodwork before being hit with a sucker punch up the other end to concede a 2nd straight away midway through the half. Thetford getting on well with good runs from midfield to add a 3rd goal t the end of the 1st half. The last thing St Ives wanted was to concede another goal early in the 2nd half unfortunately they did as Thetford began strong getting after the ball. A mountain to climb Thetford proved relentless in attack although signs were there they might be exposed at the back St Ives didn’t do it enough to exert any real pressure going on to concede a 5th the 6th goal. A tough opening day for the hosts will need to regroup and go again for Thetford it will be more of a case of keeping everyone’s feet on the ground, nevertheless a fantastic result.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season, most of the time it’s not an easy decision although today is an exception. A few performances to mention first though. For St Ives no doubt Hannah Seymour-Shove their captain ran herself into the ground getting after the ball making tackles and spurring her teammates on. Katie Stancombe looking the most likely to make something happen driving on with the ball at her feet. For Thetford the defence was kept relatively free of pressure by the forwards getting after the ball high up the pitch, Jordanne Sillitoe strong getting in to win the ball moving into some good positions scoring a brace. Hannah Claughton and Maryanne Hoy enjoying good spells out on the flanks getting into some great positions. Dayna Howard winning the ball well in the middle of the park the award though goes to Kamile Omeleviciute a fantastic game in her ERWFL debut (someone said to me recently she’s going to get noticed further afield now and she’s certainly done that) make some fantastic runs to support the attack adding pressure to the hosts back line taking her goals well. 

  Great to be back, did feel a little under prepared going into the new season but having written 531 reports hoped it would all come back to me and it has ( at least I think so) plenty of goals scored in the ERWFL this weekend promises to be an exciting season be intriguing to see how it all pans out. My thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the teams today and best of luck for the rest of the season. Up and running.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – St Ives Town Ladies v Cardea FC Ladies

Wednesday 12th April

Huntingdonshire FA Women’s Senior Cup Final

 The cup finals start to come thick and fast now across the East beginning this Wednesday evening with a trip over to Eynesbury Roves FC to watch the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final between St Ives Town Ladies and Cardea FC Ladies.

  The Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup still very much in it’s infancy with this being the 2nd season the competition has taken place with Cambridge United WFC beating St Ives Town Ladies with a last gasp winner to win the inaugural final by a single goal.

This evening’s prize (photo credit Hunts FA)

  Cambridge United WFC with a one season stay in the competition re-joining the neighbouring Cambs FA competition, the competition set for a new name on the trophy. A small catchment area with alot of potential for growth within the women’s game, 7 sides across county and regional leagues entering.

 St Ives Town Ladies very much the strongest and most established of these sides, enjoying a rapid rise through the women’s football pyramid a 3 season stay in the ERWFL Premier Division coming to an end last season. Looking to bounce back straight away always a challenge with only one promotion spot up for grabs into ERWFL Division One North have been building a strong squad but haven’t had the consistency or luck with injuries to pressure to top two sitting comfortable in 3rd have a solid platform going forwards, a great relationship with St Ives the women’s section very much part of the club, re establishing a 2nd team this season too, playing in Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two. Annie Posnett one of St Ives new signings this season a striker who I have heard talked about highly on several occasions has so far weighed in with 23 goals from 16 appearances. Into the last four of the ERWFL League Plate too with the potential to challenge for more silverware.

  Cardea FC Ladies reaching their first ever final, near Peterborough are a side very much on the rise getting stronger each year after initially finding life tough as a new side. Playing in the Cambridgeshire County League are currently top of Division One vying for the title with Histon Ladies both currently on the same points Cardea crucially with a game in hand. The signing of Emma Pollard playing a large role in Cardea’s development over the past few season’s coming to the club form Peterborough Northern Star with both experience in the FAWNL aswell as ERWFL is often amongst the goals, has an incredible 48 goals so far this season from just 15 appearances and will be a player St Ives need to watch. Isn’t the only goal scorer in the side by any means with captain Laura Rudd also weighing in with 16 goals to date along with Georgie Elsom and Courtney Coles on 9 and 8 respectfully. Underdogs in terms of pyramid placings but that gap is a little misleading will fancy their chances. Also through to the final of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup where they with again face Histon Ladies on Weds 10th May at St Neots Town FC.

Road to the Final

   Huntingdon Town Ladies with the bye in the quarter finals, St Ives Town Ladies were drawn away to Cambridgeshire Division One side Eaton Socon Ladies who had made a strong start following promotion the following season. Goals from Annie Posnett, Georga Stancombe and Katie Stancombe seeing St Ives through with a 3-1. Cardea FC Ladies at home to Yaxley Phoenix Ladies born from the Netherton United Ladies side that won the Cambridge Division One title last season new to the ERWFL a tough one on paper Cardea coming out on top to win the match 4-2 with goals from Emma Pollard, Courtney Coles, Georgie Elsom and Laura Rudd.

  Into the last four St Ives drawn against their 2nd’s team, goals scored by Donna Nicholls, Hannah Seymour-Shove and Sasha Tristram securing a 3-0 victory and a 2nd successive cup final appearance. Cardea drawn away to Huntingdon Town Ladies of Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two. Emma Pollard in fire in front of goal that day scoring a double hat-trick as Cardea run out comfortable winners 9-0 Georgie Elsom also on target with a brace along with a goal or Brooke Ware.

Eynesbury Rovers FC

  Eynesbury Rovers FC hosting the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final for the 2nd successive season. Features a large grass pitch offering plenty of width and space to stretch an opponent. In good condition the recent heavy rain a concern leading up to the match but thankfully not too much on match day itself. A scaffold seated stand built behind one goal with viewing all round. The clubhouse on one side offering alcoholic drinks and a tea hatch serving hot drinks and food. Build onto that the changing rooms behind another seated stand along one side of the pitch. The weather better than forecast with clouds around but the heavy showers likely to stay away. The setting sun red in the sky over the main stand as the teams are led out onto the pitch by referee Lauren Dobbs heading up an all female officiating team.

St Ives Town Ladies

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Sarah Aftelak, Lauren Fort, Sarah Mosley, Georgia Stancombe(C), Hannah Seymour-Shove, Niamh Sutherland, Jess Perrin, Evonne Yerrell, Katie Stancombe, Donna Nicholls & Annie Posnett. Subs – Claire Stancliffe, Sasha Smith, Jess Conyard, Koren Evan & Jess Didio.

Cardea FC Ladies

 Cardea FC Ladies starting XI – Poppy Halstead, Laura Ramsaran, Fiona Plumb, Sofia Aragosa, Jess O’Sullivan, Helen Buckingham, Laura Rudd (C), Brooke Ware, Olivia Smith, Emma Pollard & Georgie Elsom. Subs – Maisie Homden, Courtney Coles, Titch Abraham, Mia Newman & Charlotte Moffat.

  Cardea to get the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final underway kicking off the 1st half wearing an all navy kit with St Ives lined up opposite wearing white shirts with black vertical striping on the front, black shorts and socks. The ball played into midfield St Ives rushing in to press the ball forced back to Laura Ramsaran at right back, Katie Stancombe closing her down for St Ives the ball cleared across the defence to Fiona Plumb on the opposite side to send up the line for Emma Pollard to chase, St Ives, Evonne Yerrell sliding in to put the ball out for a throw

 GOAL! Cardea taking the lead inside 50 seconds with the ball high on the left Pollard sliding the pass inside for captain Laura Rudd all of 30 yards out to strike a high ball in towards goal, St Ives goalkeeper Sarah Aftelak not on her line back peddling can’t reach it as it drops over her into the back of the net beyond 0-1.

  The perfect start for Cardea taking the lead inside the opening minutes need to settle as St Ives get hold of the ball in the middle counter out to Katie Stancombe left she sends it long into the right channel with Annie Posnett bursting forwards, Ramsaran getting in close to challenge the ball out behind for a goal kick. The ball contested in the middle rebounding off plays popping forwards for Pollard pulling away into the right channel space to attack, Yerrell coming across her to put in the block to prevent the cross, Lauren Fort getting across in support clearing the ball.

  Cardea making a positive start buoyed by the early goal looking to close St Ives down all over the pitch. Katie Stancombe getting onto the ball left wing brought down by Cardea’s Brooke Ware winning a free-kick 35 yards out, Sarah Mosley over the set-piece going for goal getting her shot over the wall wide of the near post. Cardea working hard at the back to close down the ball, Pollard a ready outlet in attack with the ball cleared up field. 

  Cardea attacking on the left Georgie Elsom coming back to win the ball forwards for Rudd, attempts the threaded pass forwards into Pollard breaking in behind, Fort with the interception for St Ives getting hold of the ball. St Ives looking to se the width of the pitch with some god crossfield passing coming right to left into Mosley forwards for Katie Stancombe, pace looking to surge down the wing, Ramsaran on her shoulder sliding in to put the ball out for a throw. Is shaping up to be an open and even contest Cardea winning the ball well in the air deeper not wanting to let St Ives find room in behind.

  Jess Perrin bringing the ball on in midfield for St Ives aiming for Posnett drifting out to the right, Plumb winning the ball for Cardea. St Ives press through the middle, Posnett looking to force her way through the defence, Sofia Aragosa tackling well for Cardea before the free-kick is given away in a dangerous position 25 yards out right side of the D, Hannah Seymour-Shove over the ball. Attempts the shot curling wide of the top left corner. 

   Poppy Halstead’s goal kick finding Elsom her flick on looking to put Pollard away in behind to attack the St Ives box a vital interception from St Ives captain, Georgia Stancombe. Another interception form Georgia Stancombe at the back sprays the pass left into Katie Stancombe bringing the ball on comes back inside picking out Niamh Sutherland  into Nicholls moving to the right with Seymour-Shove the cross cleared by Cardea’s defence. Yerrell with Nicholls out on the right for St Ives lifting an inviting cross into the area, Halstead with an assured catch in her six yard box with Posnett providing a central run. Yerrell staying down after the attack, assessed need to come off an early change for St Ives Jess Conyard coming on with 20 minutes played.

  Cardea pushing on well up the left Rudd on for Pollard winning a corner kick. A vicious inswinging ball into the near post from the left, St Ives dealing with the threat launched clear get on the counter attack winning a corner on the right. Another great delivery from a corner swung in central Halstead rising well in her six yard box to punch the ball away to the right, St Ives looking to keep the pressure on however the ball forwards is over run out for a goal kick. Cardea working hard frustrating St Ives remains open, players often drawn to the ball condensed plenty of space available to run into.

  Mosley closing down Ware of the left to win the ball attacks sending it on for Posnett pulling into the left channel racing into the box, Halstead rushing out to save at her feet, play stopped however by a raised flag. Cardea appealing for a foul at one end on Pollard are nearly caught out at the back by an awkward bouncing ball 30 yards out Aragosa doing well to keep her eye in it with Posnett looking to latch on it steal in on goal wins the free-kick against her. Helen Buckingham playing the ball into Rudd the midfielder breaking forwards through the middle, attempts to get Pollard in on the ball cutting inside from the left, a little too much on the pass as Aftelak rushes out to the edge of her area to claim. 

   St Ives putting the ball across the pitch from right to left Mosley forwards into Katie Stancombe sending it inside for Seymour-Shove, Rudd snapping back at her to regain possession for Cardea. Sutherland bringing the ball under control for St Ives central puts the threaded pass on for Seymour-Shove to attack, Halstead with a good starting position inside her box racing out to get hold of it first. Pollard coming back to win the ball lays it back for Jess-O’Sullivan picks out Rudd with her pass, finds Pollard racing up the left, is fouled.

  Free-kicks given away by both sides a feature of the game with both rushing into one another to try and win the ball. Elsom seeing the ball into her feet well sending the pass infield for Rudd bursting forwards, Georgia Stancombe getting into close her down winning the tackle. Katie Stancombe high on the left putting a diagonal ball out to Nicholls on the right side knocked inside cleared by O’Sullivan for Cardea. Conyard forwards on the right supporting Nicholls and Seymour-Shove, O’Sullivan getting in amongst it to win the ball back for Cardea. St Ives finding it tough to break down a stubborn Cardea back line. Ramsaran with a long throw in her arsenal looking to relief some pressure. 

  Elsom out on the right for Cardea looking to line one up from distance, charged down by Mosley. St Ives with time to move the ball in front of the Cardea back line going left to right Nicholls lifting a cross into the near post, Katie Stancombe looking to get it down off her chest into her feet and turn to shoot, is quickly closed down by the Cardea defence. St Ives pressing the attack right side Conyard with Seymour-Shove out to Posnett wide the ball sent inside across the top of the area for Nicholls left of the D, Ware back to defend for Cardea getting a toe on the ball to take it away from the attacker, Nicholls still after the ball puts her foot through the ball, Ware with the blocking tackle. 

35 minutes played Cardea with the early goal working hard to keep St Ives from finding a reply, Ramsaran cutting out a diagonal ball from the middle as Perrin and Sutherland combine in midfield giving the defence a chance to regroup. St Ives pushing late in the first half winning a throw high on the right the ball inside cleared by Buckingham into Olivia Smith then Elsom, Seymour-Shove getting back to tackle Pollard as Elsom tries to pick her out up top. Nicholls left channel forwards into Posnett top of the area, trying to pull off her marker, O’Sullivan stabbing out a foot to take the ball away from the attacker.

  The battle in midfield intense at times Rudd up to Elsom sends the pass into Pollard running into the left channel, Aftelak out well to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Nicholls with a good piece of skill to get the ball under control and turn lifting it on for Perrin breaking from midfield, Aragosa defending as she closes her down attempting to get the ball under control inside the D. Seymour-Shove playing the ball forwards to Posnett pulling into the area right of the D, Halstead starts to come for the ball Aragosa struggling to get to the flight of the ball knocking it down away to the right of goal, Posnett lively after it, Aragosa recovering to get across and swing her leg through the ball to clear.

  Sutherland into Perrin left in midfield, clipped high into the box, the defensive header from Aragosa to clear. The game moving into stoppage time at the end of the first half, Pollard remains the outlet up top taking the ball on down the left wing, Conyard preventing the cross coming into the area. With St Ives pressing players forwards Cardea’s defence remains solid Ramsaran winning the ball cleared up into the opposition half  Pollard out on the right corner of the area unleashing a shot races wide of the far post. 

 St Ives with a good chances for a counter attack in the closing moments of the half, the ball launched out to the right Posnett racing after it Ramsaran getting across to her to slide in with the challenge knocking the ball out of play. Trouble for Posnett though as she stays down a blow can’t continue is replaced with little time left till the half-time break, Jess Didio coming on. Cardea mounting one last attack the ball sent out to the right for Ware to chase down checks inside to play the ball across the top of the Si Ives area looking for Elsom, Georgia Stancombe with a fantastic tackle, winning a free-kick in the process.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies 0-1 Cardea FC Ladies

  Laura Rudd’s speculative strike in the opening 50 seconds seeing Cardea open the scoring and that is how it has remained for first half. Cardea sticking back working hard in defence to win the ball prevent St Ives getting in to expose them. Competitive with a high work rate has been a open game to a degree, St Ives allowed to come on spreading the ball across the pitch frustrated haven’t found the final clinical pass. Losing two players to injury too compounding that frustration yet with just a goal in it still plenty to play for. Cardea putting alot into the 1st a half will aim to do the same 2nd half with space likely to open up.

  Appears to be no more chances at half-time St Ives to get the 2nd half underway has become decidedly chilly. The ball rolled back into defence Elsom pressing the full back, Conyard getting back at her to regain possession for St Ives. Cardea looking press St Ives defenders at the start of the 2nd half, Pollard getting hold of the ball top right of the D, Georgia Stancombe getting across her to put in the blocking tackle. Katie Stancombe up top for St Ives now running towards the box jinking left and right on the ball closed down, the loose ball coming to Seymour-Shove sends her cross/shot wide across goal.

   Ware winning the ball well for Cardea on the left inside for Rudd tackled by Perrin, St Ives come left winning a throw, work the cross into the area headed clear by Aragosa. Back out to the left St Ives winning the free-kick. Katie Stancombe sending an inviting ball in across the area no one from either side getting a touch as it bounces out beyond the far post for a goal kick. St Ives building momentum in attack getting players up around the box, Katie Stancombe laying the ball back for Perrin to strike up into the area, Aragosa under it for Cardea, the ball going away for a corner kick to the right.

  The corner put in towards the top of the area flicked inside the ball struck hard whistling past the keeper into the back of the net St Ives wheel round to celebrate thinking they have the equaliser, but no the assistants flag it up it won’t count!

  St Ives need to re focus immediately, Cardea pressing the ball into the middle looking to release Pollard in attack Georgia Stancombe intercepting, encouraging her side to keep going. Ware attacking on the right, Mosley closing her down just about to stop the pass getting through to Elsom in attack. Pollard putting in a shift in attack pulls up suddenly looks serious as play is stopped but as Aftelak comes to offer support it is thankfully just a nasty case of cramp. St Ives nevertheless take the opportunity to make a change bringing on Sasha Smith for Sutherland. 

  Bursting up the left attacking St Ives win a corner, sending players up into the box is a great ball curled in towards the middle of goal putting the keeper under pressure as Halstead goes down to get hold of it St Ives attempting to force it over the line, appealing it’s over the line but Halstead saves well has it firmly in her gloves. St Ives making a few positional changes taking a few risks at the back bringing more players on looking to find an opening Seymour-Shove pulling right sends a high cross into the box, Halstead up well to pluck the ball down safely in control of the situation.

   Perrin frustrated as she’s adjudged to have fouled Buckingham on half way a free-kick to Cardea. Aragosa sending it long up to the top of the area Katie Stancombe back there to head clear. Up to Nicholls as St Ives look to break, Plumb defending well for Cardea. Cardea making a double switch on the hour mark ringing of Ware and Smith on come Mia Newman and Titch Abraham. Perrin clattered down top of the centre circle winning the free-kick for St Ives, Katie Stancombe sending it up towards the top of the area headed clear by the Cardea defence. 

  Nicholls enjoying a good tussle with Rudd as the pair battle for possession of the ball, Nicholls getting away to run down the line, fouled as O’Sullivan and Abraham converge to close her down. St Ives getting more of the ball Cardea fighting for everything, Perrin driving on central looking for the one two with Didio, the return ball cut out top of the area. Cardea holding their line well as Katie Stancombe tries to pick out Seymour-Shove wide right. Cardea winning a free-kick on half-way make a 3rd change bringing on Courtney Coles for Georgie Elsom who has felt her hamstring tightening up. The ball sent up into the St Ives area won by Georgia Stancombe headed clear.

   20 minutes left to go Cardea tiring but resolute fighting hard to close down the ball in the middle of the park take the pressure off the defence. Abrahams getting the ball of Aragosa at the back for Cardea pulling right, with Buckingham coming on in support, Conyard out to close the ball down well inside for Didio, Rudd snapping into the challenge. Coles with the lay off up top into Abraham racing in behind left channel, Fort getting across to challenge for St Ives. The game stretched to substitutes bringing renewed energy onto the field. St Ives with a double change looking to respond, Mosley and Seymour-Shove off, Koren Evan and Claire Stancliffe coming on.

  Cardea sensing they hold out Ramsaran lunging in to tackle at right back as St Ives get the ball out wide into Smith. Abraham lively on the flank intercepting the ball or Cardea inside the St Ives half on for Pollard wide, Abraham bursting forwards to get into the box as Pollard shifts inside to send the ball into her path Abraham 1st time strike blasted wide of the near post.

   Chances opening up for Cardea as the game progresses, Pollard with a shot from wide on the right held low by Aftelak at her near post. St Ives winning a free-kick 35 yards out Perrin over it to the right of goal players lining up to attack the far post Perrin instead puts the ball in towards goal, Halstead not caught off guard catching well. Cardea playing a set-piece from half way into the right channel, Stancliffe getting across to clear for St Ives. O’Sullivan down for Cardea struggling needing to be replaced Charlotte Moffat.

  Straight into the action the ball lifted into her left side of attack holding it up well as teammates look to get up in support. The game stretched St Ives looking to get it into their attacking players just can’t get it to stick, Cardea giving no one any time on the ball. Katie Stancombe the most likely to make something happen the ball rolling into her path she unleashed a strike from distance hit well angling in for the top corner, Halstead with a brilliant save throwing her herself up to her right to get a hand on the ball knock it away to the touch line, St Ives retrieving Smith firing a low ball in towards the near post Halstead scrambling forwards to dive on the ball. 

  The clock running down St Ives still trailing y a single goal the game there to be turned on it’s head if they can find that one all important chance. Abraham closing down Conyard well on the wing as the full back looks to get on. Halstead busy inside her box out well to lay claim to the ball as a shot is driven in from the left, then gives it away kicking the ball straight to Evan 25 yards out, attempting to lob the keeper find the open goal beyond Halstead backing up frantically relieved to bring the ball down safely into her gloves.

  Into the final 5 minutes Cardea determined to hold out St Ives pushing on Katie Stancombe finding Conyard up on the right, Plumb preventing the cross coming in closing her down. Georgia Stancombe pushed up field right of the box flashing a cross into the six yard box, Halstead with a good take. Plumb coming off for Cardea late on Maisie Homden coming on. The game moving into stoppage time Pollard experienced looking to take the ball into the corner, one goal for St Ives changes everything, straight to penalties Pollard winning a throw in the ball rolled into Coles outside the box lifted inside Moffat drifting in near post puts the shot wide. St Ives break on with one last attack the ball knocked on Halstead out to the top corner of the area to put her gloves on the ball, cleared the whistle blows Cardea win the cup.

Full time St Ives Town Ladies 0-1 Cardea FC Ladies

  Cardea win the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup in their 1st ever final appearance, Laura Rudd’s early strike the difference. Cardea working hard fighting to close down the ball all over the pitch keeping it tight at the back winning some vital balls. Getting tense towards the end a 2nd gaol would have gone along way to relieving that but defended well the substitutes all playing their part in keeping the work rate up. St Ives frustrated losing the final by a single goal for the 2nd year running, back then a late late winner. This time hit with an early goal couldn’t find a reply, had a goal disallowed 2nd half and the keeper holding the ball on the line but couldn’t find the break through injuries not helping. County Cups often throw up rivalries over the season’s and there’s a good chance we’re seeing another one here, these two sides will be regular contenders for the trophy. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this evenings Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. As usual it’s a tough call some great performances out on the pitch. A few to mention, for St Ives Katie Stancombe carried a strong threat in attack, running with the ball and getting into advanced position’s coming close to finding the equaliser with a fine strike. At the back Georgia Stancombe was solid making a number of vital tackles and winning the ball. Cardea were strong from back to front working hard to close the ball down and a whole round team effort including their substitutes. Emma Pollard providing a great outlet in attack always available for the ball. Laura Rudd winning the ball in midfield netting the winning goal. The defence strong in particular Laura Ramsaran and Sofia Aragosa, the award like last year though goes to the keeper, Poppy Halstead with a great display inside her box calling well positionally sound and coming for the ball with a couple of vital saves too.

Cardea FC Ladies 2022/23 Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Winners (photo credit Hunts FA)

Congratulations to Cardea FC Ladies on winning the Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup

  An enjoyable evening at Eynesbury Rovers my thanks to the staff their and those at Hunts FA for all their help. So pleased the rain stayed away. Thanks to too both teams for their help with the starting line-ups will update with extra pictures as son as I have them.

by Darren Gilham

 

Cup Final Special – Cambridge United WFC v St Ives Town Ladies

Wednesday 13th April

Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final

A busy week of cup final action on Women’s Football East, starting this Wednesday evening with a trip to Eynesbury Rovers FC or the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup Final between Cambridge United WFC and St Ives Town Ladies.

Huntingdonshire FA’s inaugural Women’s Senior Cup at last taking place after Covid put pay to the final being played last season. 7 women’s sides featured within the county with representatives varying from county level right up to FAWNL Division One the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid.

The two strongest sides within the county reaching the final of the competition with Cambridge United WFC playing their football at St Neots Town FC playing in FAWNL South East Division One taking on St Ives Town Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division below.

Cambridge United WFC manager, Darren Marjoram taking on familiar opponents having joined the FAWNL side at the start of the season having previously been manager at St Ives Town playing a major role in the clubs development and rapid rise up the football pyramid. Overall a successful 1st season with Cambridge pushing for a top 4 finish at one point tailing away towards the end with consistency proving a challenge will secure a mid-table finish with a good platform to build on next season. Cambridge United WFC enjoying closer ties with Cambridge United FC which will benefit them going forwards have traditionally been a dominant force within the county cup competition in Cambridgeshire itself, now with their base in Huntingdonshire have the opportunity to contest for silverware once again.

St Ives Town Ladies having reached the ERWFL Premier Division 3 seasons ago after a fast and strong rise through the leagues, were looking strong in their debut season, then Covid came along and put an end to proceedings, the following season likewise affected stifling development for a lot of clubs. A change of management this season with Ben Green eventually taking charge. Have found this season in the ERWFL Premier Division a struggle winning just one of their opening 8 league fixtures and with one game left to play are unfortunately at the bottom of the table and facing the prospect of relegation, yet the mood in the camp remains positive and recent results giving the squad some much needed confidence going into this evenings final. 

Road to the Final

  With 7 sides contesting, new side Huntingdon Town Ladies made up largely of the old St Ives Town Ladies Development side were the ones to receive a bye into the last 4. Cambridge United WFC starting their cup campaign away to Cardea FC Ladies,, 2nd in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Division One, 3 divisions between the sides Cambridge running out comfortable winners with both Ruth Fox and Laura Mitchell scoring a hat-trick in an 11-0 win. A equally high scoring victory for St Ives Town Ladies in their quarter final away to Cambridgeshire Women’s Division Two side, Brampton Ladies. Charlotte Noble on target with a hat-trick with top scorers Angel Lyden netting a brace in a 10-2 result.

  Into the last 4 and Cambridge were drawn at home to Cambridge Women’s Division Two title chasers, Eaton Socon Ladies. A good test for the visitors young squad, Cambridge once again racking up the goals powering into the final with a 13-0 win. St Ives at home to Huntingdon Town Ladies in  their semi-final. Georgia Stancombe on target with a brace with a goal each for Kati Stancombe and Sasha Smith seeing them through to their first county cup final.

  The venue for the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Final, Eynesbury Rovers FC. Like St Neots, Premier Plus Stadium situated in a residential area, featuring a very large grass pitch which will offer plenty of width in great condition. A seated stand along one side of the ground opposite the dugouts, housing the changing rooms with the bar/clubhouse with kitchen hatch alongside. Another seated stand behind one of the goals a good sized crowd building. A pleasant warm day  carrying into the evening mild with no wind or rain forecast.

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI – Lauren Webb, Carrie Bennett, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Lauren Rouse, Abi Davies, Gisela Otten (C), Abbi Griffin, Faith Hewitt, Laura Mitchell, Nicole Emmings & Ruth Fox. Subs – Kira Markwell, Grace Waygood, Alysha Stojko-Down, Libby Fraser & Niamh Day.

 St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Sarah Aftelak, Mollie Flack, Sasha Smith, Anna Hicks (C), Georgia Stancombe, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Jessica Conyard, Sarah Mosley, Angel Lyden, Katie Stancombe & Elle Jefferson. Subs – Lauren Bird, Poppy Lyons & Penelope Ford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Three former St Ives players following Darren Marjoram to Cambridge all featuring in this evenings final with Ruth Fox, top scorer for Cambridge this season with 14 goals leading the attack and Abbi Griffin starting in midfield. Goalkeeper, Kira Markwell on the bench. Cambridge to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing amber coloured shirts with black shorts and socks with St Ives opposite wearing white shirts with black vertical striping, black shorts and socks. The play played diagonally out to the left wing for Nicole Emmings, Mollie Flack gaining possession for St Ives lifting the ball back into the middle.

St Ives closing in on the ball Jessica Conyard playing it out to Angel Lyden on the right support with Sarah Mosley down the flank the pair playing a good one two on, Carrie Bennett across the ball for Cambridge to see it safely out of play for a goalkick. Cambridge winning a free-kick captain Gisella Otten on for Laura Mitchell on the right takes the ball on squaring it into Ruth Fox top of the area, Georgia Stancombe defending for St Ives the ball back with Kayleigh-Anne Burt on the right spreads play across to Lauren Rouse moving left  on for Bennett up for Emmings taking the ball up up the left whistling a cross into the box, Fox the target central, St Ives captain Anna Hicks getting her foot on the ball to clear.

St Ives, Mollie Flack with Cambridge’s Nicole Emmings (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  St Ives build on the left getting a free-kick the ball played on cleared is picked up by Katie Stancombe out left 30 yards out strikes the ball goalwards, arrowing in, Cambridge goalkeeper, Lauren Webb with a spectacular save, athletically diving to her right gloving the ball away for a corner kick. The corner delivery lofted into a crowded near post, Webb coming in amongst everyone to jump punch the ball down, cleared up to Mitchell looking to break, Sarah Aftelak keeping goal for St Ives out of her box to clear.

  St Ives with a fast start looking to press the ball get it moving forwards quickly, Elle Jefferson in attack nudging the ball on for Lyden, Burt closing in to tackle, halt St Ives progress for Cambridge. Lyden getting on well right side with Jefferson supporting, Faith Hewitt across to put in the tackle. Cambridge rushed on the ball as St Ives work to close down passes not finding their targets. Rouse at the back for Cambridge onto Hewitt with Bennett going on left side her diagonal ball flighted into the area seen out at her near post by Aftelak. A busy opening 10 minutes from St Ives have caught Cambridge a little off guard, Mosley in to tackle Otten put the ball out to Lyden, Emmings tracking back to challenge get the ball back into Cambridge’s possession.

Cambridge captain, Gisela Otten (photo credit Ben Phillips)

Emmings with Bennett up the left checks back inside firing a cross into the area Fox the target too close to the keeper Aftelak snatching it up into her gloves. Griffin down in the middle for Cambridge needing treatment after a challenge, is okay to continue. Play resuming Flack with a timely interception getting her foot on the ball as Emmings looks to thread a pass on in behind. Katie Stancombe with the ball driving on left side pace forced back up the line before turning and seeing her long range strike charged down. The ball up to Fox in attack right channel 25 out played back to Hewitt central out out to Mitchell on the right advances before flashing and angled shot wide across the St Ives goal.

Cambridge’s Faith Hewitt (photo credit Ben Phillips)

There positive start giving St Ives confidence, Jefferson linking up well with Lyden on the right keeping Bennett occupied at the back for Cambridge. Aftelak with a good catch high at her near post as Cambridge attack right Mitchell sending the ball in. Cambridge lose the ball at the back Rouse tackled by Katie Stancombe right sent onto Jefferson racing into the area evading Burt’s challenge, Griffin running back closing in to block before Jefferson can unleash a shot. St Ives quick to counter whenever they have the ball Lyden on the right looking to set up Jefferson ahead of her, Rouse defending well for Cambridge shielding the ball putting it back for Webb to clear.

Fox for Cambridge with a great first touch 25 yards out to take the ball in behind on the left channel, Lyden getting back on her shoulder to shoulder forces her wide before tackling to clear the ball. Cambridge with a free-kick on the left leading to a corner kick, players up from the back the six yard box loaded, the delivery in escaping the defender at the near post running on into the mix, a snap shot taken from close range Aftelak with a fantastic save leaping to her left to snatch the ball down with both hands.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

Otten central spinning to evade a tackle playing the ball into Fox’s feet as she peels away left channel to run in behind towards the box shooting from outside the area her effort drilled wide of the near post. A tug back leading to a St Ives free-kick central, players up as Georgia Stancombe sends it up into the area Jefferson unable to get it down under control before being closed down the ball cleared. Half and hour played, Griffin wrestling free with the ball in the middle sending it through for Fox left of the D too heavy though the keeper gathering safely.

Lyden strong on the right getting in behind, pace taking her to the by-line flashes a cross along the face of the Cambridge goal Katie Stancombe beyond the far post can’t keep it in. Otten puts the ball on for Emmings into space on the left driving on wraps her foot around the ball angling a cross into the box swerving goalwards Aftelak with a confident take high at her near post. Otten strong in the middle winning a St Ives goalkick the ball out to Emmings again on the left shifts inside this time shooting wide from 30 yards out. St Ives forced back as Cambridge get players forwards Davies up with Mitchell on the right the ball cut out fed across the the left Bennett up field delivering a cross into the top of the area Georgia Stancombe clearing for St Ives.

Cambridge gaining some momentum as the 1st half draws to a close Georgia Stancombe clearing a cross the ball out for a corner on the left. Put into the mix in front of goal Aftelak getting a fist on the ball can’t claim, falling a scramble in front of her put clear, Jefferson breaking with it through the middle, Mitchell racing back for Cambridge to challenge. Fox taking the ball on as she sees it into her feet and turns 25 yards out, Conyard going with her lunging in to take the ball away from her.

Hewitt fouled in the middle played out to Mitchell on the right Davies looking to get on with her, Smith timing her tackle well to halt Mitchell’s run. Davies up with Mitchell on the right moments later the shot angled in low, held well by Aftelak down smartly at her near post. Hannah Seymour-Shove tackling in the middle out to Katie Stancombe on the left driving on, Davies challenging as Burt comes to clear. Won back up to Mosley, Jefferson moving into the D ahead of her, Rouse getting her foot in to steal the ball. Burt sending the pass on for Davies bursting forwards on the right, strikes the ball on the angle from distance, Aftelak untroubled as she sees it wide of her far post.

(photo credit Ben Phillips)

St Ives playing the ball on with pace through the centre Jefferson and Lyden looking to get into the box, Rouse across to put in the tackle before the ball is cleared for a throw on the left. St Ives winning a free-kick on their right, Bennett aggrieved as she goes in for a 50/50 challenge. Smith flighting an inviting ball into the box, Otten inside to defend with a firm header as push spotted however Cambridge getting the free-kick. Into the closing stages of the 1st half Cambridge attack on the right Fox up with Mitchell a throw won high up the pitch. The cross coming in off the throw sees Fox’s attempt near side charged down Mitchell getting hold of the rebound seeing her shot deflected wide for a corner on the right. Put in across the six yard box scrambled behind for another corner on the left this delivery cleared at the near post.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 0-0 St Ives Town Ladies

  Goalless at the break. A competitive game with St Ives starting brightly working hard to close the ball down, get it on take the game to Cambridge who were a little cold at the start caught off guard. Webb called into action with an early save. The work rate continuing from St Ives have counted well, whilst defending their box. Cambridge gaining momentum as the half wore on will be interesting to see if St Ives can match this tempo 2nd half, remains all to play for.

Carrie Bennett with St Ives Elle Jefferson (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  A triple change for Cambridge at the start of the 2nd half with Kira Markwell replacing Webb in goal. Also on defender Grace Waygood and midfielder Alysha Stojko-Down for Burt and Hewitt. Tactical changes too as Griffin goes to right back, Davies up to joined Fox and Emmings in attack on the right side. St Ives with the same 11 get the 2nd period underway the scores level after 90 minutes the game goes straight to penalties. The ball played forwards cleared by Waygood. Both sides closing down in the middle the start of the 2nd half disjointed with neither side getting hold of the ball.

   Cambridge build on the left Bennett on for Emmings attacking down the wing crossed into the area for Mitchell played back out to Stojko-Down 20 yards out, her strike charged down by Hicks. Cambridge showing more attacking intent at the start of the 2nd half looking to get on the front foot Stojko-Down and Otten tackling in the middle, the former fouled by Seymour-Shove a free-kick lifted into the area defended away for a corner kick on the left. Played in to the near side Emmings coming towards the ball twists as she leaps looking to turn the ball goalwards plants it wide.

Angel Lyden with Alysha Stojko-Down (photo credit Ben Phillips)

 Smith’s clearance at the back has Lyden running in clear behind on the right, Markwell responding quickly advancing to the top of her area to grab the ball into her gloves. The ball clipped into Fox from midfield 25 yards out brings it down well turning to attack the area, runs into Georgia Stancombe who stabs out a foot to take the ball away. Davies and Emmings pushing on with Fox through the middle now in attack St Ives forced back, Otten and Stojko-Down in midfield winning the cleared ball back. Smith gets in a great tackle ,needed as Davies looks to charge on down the right side. 

  A flare-up on the right as St Ives win a free-kick, quickly extinguished by the referee, the set-piece send long into the area, Markwell unchallenged with an assured claim. Cambridge using the pitch better now as Otten coming right to win possession links up with Griffin the ball played into Stojko-Down central helped out to Bennett on the left forwards for Emmings her cross dinked into the area finds Fox getting a yard clear of the defence just inside she sends her shot in, narrowly over the crossbar. 

Cambridge striker, Ruth Fox (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  St Ives with their backs to the wall as Cambridge mount an attack on the left Emmings getting help from Mitchell the ball flashed in across the six yard box Davies in far side with a 1st time effort back across goal can only find Aftelak who is down swiftly on her line to save. Stojko-Down on for Emmings left a high ball into the box Davies managing to keep it in but Smith tackles for St Ives, Davies fouled as she goes to retrieve the ball. 56 minutes played and the first change of the game for St Ives as Poppy Lyons comes on in attack in place of Jefferson. 

  Cambridge up on the left with a throw in put into Mitchell shifts infield to the top corner of the area shooting low the ball rolling into Aftelak getting down to claim at her near post. Lyden up on the right with Katie Stancombe, Bennett forcing her back before Stojko-Down regains possession for Cambridge. Davies with pace on the right adding an attacking threat turning St Ives around whips a dangerous ball in across the six yard box, Flack cool under pressure with a cushioned header back to her keeper. 

Cambridge’s Abi Davies (photo credit Ben Phillips)

   Otten moving right with great foot work to back heel the ball on into the area, Mosley needing to track back to intercept, Katie Stancombe clearing options up the pitch limited Cambridge quickly regain possession. Smith in the wars for St Ives has taken another knock and this time needs to come off. Jefferson retuning to the pitch up alongside Lyons as Mosley drops back into left back. A ball played over the top for Davies attacking right of the D, Georgia Stancombe running with her to the ball first her attempted clearance hitting Davies rebounding goalwards, Aftelak reacting sharply to save. 

 Katie Stancombe’s pace an outlet for St Ives if they can get the ball out to her, on the left turns infield allowed to travel with the ball, it’s Rouse who gets back on her sliding in to tackle 20 yards out. Up the other end Georgia Stancombe lunging into tackle Davies 20 yards out as she shapes to shoot. Jefferson fouled top of the circle a free-kick for St Ives played long up into the area, Markwell not put off with Jefferson chasing in on the ball catching cleanly. 

  Seymour-Shove with a rash challenge catching Fox on the back of her achilles, presenting Cambridge with a free-kick to the right some 25 yards out. Griffin over the ball. Put into the box claimed by Aftelak. Closing in on the final 15 minutes, Cambridge strong in the 2nd half but yet to break down a resilient St Ives defence. Mitchell on the left side moving inside to cross whipping the ball in Fox her target, Georgia Stancombe going with her to intercept and clear for St Ives. Fox then sending a header over the bar as Emmings plays a cross in from the left side. 

  Mosley pushing Davies wide as she bursts on down the right gets to the by-line her cross drifting behind into the side netting. Otten with a strong header off a St Ives goal kick the ball with Davies on the right wins her side a corner. Long across the face of goal cleared falls to Stojko-Down 25 yards out left smashes a shot goalwards, takes a deflection on its way over. A pause in play with a St Ives player needing treatment. The corner from the right Emming’s leaping central can’t quite get there the ball cleared at the far post. Stojko-Down linking wit h Otten and Griffin central the ball fed forwards cut out by Hicks. 

  Into the final 10 minutes, Cambridge making a change bringing on Libby Fraser for Emmings on the left. Otten winning the ball in midfield out to the right Mitchell with Davies the shot on the angle put behind. Fox seeing the ball into her feet back to goal 20 out has support with Otten advancing she spreads play to the left Fraser with Mitchell, Flack tackling the ball out for a throw. Davies attacking right to the by-line winning a corner off Mosley. Mosley then clears at the near post as the corner is swung in.

Cambridge’s Laura Mitchell (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  The clock is ticking down, St Ives are absorbing alot of pressure can’t get the ball out off there half as Cambridge press hard, can they hold on, take it to the lottery of a penalty shootout? Mosley outnumbered on the left as Fox moves out to help Davies with Griffin getting up the pitch does well to get a challenge in halt progress with a throw. Defended a rare opportunity to break with Katie Stancombe in the clear on the left, Rouse though covers the ground well to slide in with the tackle. Niamh Day coming on in the closing minutes for Cambridge replacing Davies the game entering stoppage time 4 minutes to be played.

  GOAL! Stojko-Down playing the ball on down the left for Mitchell deep her touch seeing her shift inside run into the area wide of goal no one from St Ives can get near her as she strikes the ball with her right foot a fantastic hit rifled home across the keeper into the corner of the goal! 1-0. One of those instances where you see the attack building and know the attacker is going to score.

Laura Mitchell congratulated after her scoring in the 91st minute (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  The St Ives defence breached at last in stoppage time a valiant effort, Cambridge have been on top throughout the 2nd half finally have the goal. Little time left and St Ives have given it there all Katie Stancombe in space on the left can’t get a cross into the area. Cambridge with time to mount one last attack Fox put in behind on the right taking the ball to the by-line whipping in a cross that his cut out at the near post.

Full time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 St Ives Town Ladies

  The final whistle blows and Cambridge celebrate as they win the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup. Laura Mitchell with the unstoppable strike in the 91st minute. Late heartbreak for St Ives who gave everything coming within minutes of taking their higher league opponents to a penalty shootout. Can rightly be proud of their performance was a valiant effort ran out of steam in the 2nd half absorbing alot of Cambridge pressure as their opponents adjusted things at half-time dominating the 2nd half despite not finding the all important winning goal until the end. 

Women’s Football East – -Player of the Match

  Onto the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match several great performances all over the pitch from players on both sides. Credit to the whole of the St Ives defence along with Sarah Mosley who did a fine job slotting into left back after Smith’s injury. Georgia Stancombe with a number of committed tackles throughout. For Cambridge, captain Gisela Otten was strong in the middle especially 2nd half winning the ball back on numerous ocassions St Ives unable to get out because of it. Laura Mitchell with the all important winning goal with a number of great attacking runs throughout aswell as Abi Davies on the right. The award ere though as it did on the night goes to St Ives goalkeeper Sarah Aftelak with some great saves and good positioning made sure her team were in the game right till the end.

A valiant effort from St Ives Town Ladies (photo credit Tom Alfuth)

  Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC on winning the inaugural Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup 

Hunts FA Women’s Senior Cup winners, Cambridge United WFC (photo credit Ben Phillips)

  The first of two mid-week finals completed a trip down to Essex on the heels of this one. 214 in attendance in what was a nail biting final no where near as one sided as some had predicted. Credit to St Ives for that smiles on their faces at the end despite the lose knowing they had given it their all. My thanks to everyone at Hunts FA for their help aswell as both clubs for their assistance with the team details and Ben Phillips for allowing me to use some of his pictures in the report. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – St Ives Town Ladies v Haringey Borough Women

Sunday 13th September

ERWFL Premier Division

 A new season begins in the ERWFL and it promises to be the most competitive yet. Begin this season with the match I had pencilled in next in the previous season before it was brought to an end by the ongoing COVID outbreak, St Ives Town Ladies at home to Haringey Borough Women. 

  With the 2019/20 season being declared null & void, it is the same 12 sides competing in the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Premier Division this time around. A bitter pill to swallow for leaders Harlow Town Ladies unbeaten at the top of the league. Luton emerging as their closest rivals 3 points behind with a game in hand. That said it was a hard fought campaign with as many as 9 sides all pushing for a top 4 finish at one point. A new season begins and some big signings have been made by a number of clubs as they look to win the title and achieve promotion to the FAWNL above with it. Will be highly competitive once again.

  St Ives Town Ladies entering their second season at this level having achieved promotion at the first attempt after joining the ERWFL. On a highly successful run since forming earning back to back promotions the young squad used to winning games the ERWFL Premier Division would pose big jump in terms of player performance and was a test right from the off for St Ives, missing a few key players with injury that season to such as goalkeeper Kira Markwell and attacker Tierney Coulson for a good spell. The squad had to adapt every game a battle at the wrong end of the table although well clear of the bottom two signs of progress were being made before the season was brought to an abrupt end. All the better for the experience adding the likes of Abbi Griffin and Ruth Fox to the squad during the season, 2 more Georgina Parrett and Hannah Johnson from Netherton have joined in the close season to add competition for places. 

  Haringey Borough Women are a long established side in the ERWFL, the North London club which cherishes and celebrates the diversity of its teams, had an inspiring season in 2016/17 under the guidance of manager Steve Browne who very sadly passed away from cancer before its conclusion, Haringey nevertheless pushing on together to win the ERWFL Premier Division and achieve promotion to the FAWNL in the process. Proved to be a difficult season at that level with several of that title winning squad departing, coming straight back down Haringey regrouped, finding themselves battling at the bottom of the table for the past two seasons adding a few new faces to the squad will be aiming to make there mark this campaign.

The venue today St Ives Town FC’s Westwood Road stadium, the pitch itself looking superb, lush and green, does have a distinct slope in one corner, but that could be used to your advantage if you can play a good ball down the flank. COVID measures in place as they are in all sporting venues now. Hot and cold drinks available. A bright sunny day, quite muggy although no chance of rain. 

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Kira Markwell, Caitlin McGeown, Anna Hicks, Mollie Flack (C), Abbi Griffin, Ruth Fox, Ella Burnley, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Georgia Stancombe & Katie Stancombe. Subs – Tierney Coulson, Tia Everdell, Elisabeth Manuel & Sophie Majoram.

Haringey Borough Women starting XI – Kassandra Rukat, Shanice Nourrice, Charlee Vaz, Shernelle Francois, Valeria Hurtado Duran, Jaidene Browne (C), Lauren Duggan, Aaliyah Boyea, Angie Hernandez, Julia Carruthers & Beatriz Kretteis. Subs – Brooke Hills, Victoria Campbell & Nadine Franklin.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Haringey to kick-off the season opener, wearing yellow shirts with blue sleeves, blue shirts and yellow socks, St Ives in their home colours, black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The visitors straight on the attack direct through the middle carve St Ives open Aaliyah Boyea seeing the ball into her feet top of the box looks to turn and shoot, St Ives captain Mollie Flack stabbing out a foot to take the ball away from her deflect the ball behind for a corner on the left. 

Haringey captain Jaidene Browne taking the corner whipped in towards the near post St Ives smuggling it behind for a 2nd corner. Browne with another inswinging ball this time landing in the side netting. Haringey with a strong start push players on through the middle, striker Beatrix Kretteis almost powering her way through into the box. Julia Carruthers moving right as the ball in returned to her is fouled by St Ives Sasha Smith as she attempted to skip past her. The free-kick defended it’s Smith’s turn to be fouled on halfway her shirt tugged as she looks to mount an attack.

Haringey forward Julia Carruthers fouled as she looks to get in behind the St Ives defence

GOAL! Players go up as Smith places the ball down to deliver for St Ives her diagonal ball long picking out Ella Burnley who has made a good run to get in behind the Haringey defence, the angle against her the on rushing goalkeeper makes up her mind as she lobs the ball up over her and into the back of the empty net 1-0. 3 minutes played.

St Ives Town Ladies, Ella Burnley with the opening goal.

  Haringey continue to look strong in the middle good link up play between Browne and Lauren Duggan playing a one two before Browne spotting Boyea peeling away to the right attempts to play her in, Smith able to get across her to play the ball back. St Ives build from the back the ball into midfield out to the right Georgia Stancombe to Burnley the ball cross in central towards the top of the box, midfielder Ruth Fox arriving hits it first time the back blocked at close range deflected away Haringey breaking getting away left side, Caitlin McGeown in to tackle break up the move.

Defender Charlee Vaz winning possession back for Haringey Borough Women

Duggan getting away on the left breaking towards the area gets upended the visiting side awarded a free-kick in  a dangerous position 20 yards out. Browne over it goes for goal, not a bad attempt, close but Markwell can watch it safely over her crossbar. McGeown charges on with the ball right side pushes it on into the path of Burnley, Shernelle Francois comes across well putting in the challenge to send the ball out for a throw in. 

St Ives Abbi Griffin with Haringey’s Lauren Duggan

 Haringey are looking dangerous on the break especially through the middle, direct at times but effective, Kretteis getting into some good positions. Anna Hicks coming out to close her down this time for St Ives. Markwell called into action in the St Ives goal, as Haringey get the ball on through the centre with pace players forwards Duggan to the right of the D, her knock on blocked the ball deflected straight back to her strikes it hard, low racing on towards goal, Markwell down smartly to her left to push the ball to safety.

  Coming through the middle Haringey, Browne sends the ball up to Kretteis who has Boyea close to her looking to get in behind, flicks the ball on looking to pick her out, Flack quickly closing Boyea down the chance gone. Kretteis is causing problems for the St Ives defence pace and power taking the ball on into the box Flack backing off sticking out a boot to take the ball away from her, Duggan racing on to support Kretteis tries to play it back to Kretteis only for Flack to intercept and clear the danger.

Beatriz Kretteis on the attack for Haringey Borough Women

 It’s a good contest St Ives being tested at the back whilst making good use of the wide areas when bringing the ball out themselves. Kretteis is hard to shake off the ball running on takes it into the box held up turns to lay it back for the arriving Boyea she strikes it first time from 20 yards the shot swerving wide of the left post. Backing of from Kretteis 35 yards out she sees an opportunity to let loose a shot the diagonal ball running harmlessly wide across Markwell’s goal. 

  Georgia Stancombe moves away clear on the right for St Ives the ball fed up the line she takes it on well before squaring a cross into the box, Duggan tracking back into the box for Haringey get’s something on it deflecting it high into the air dropping before goal, Fox closing in challenging goalkeeper Kassandra Rukat for the ball, is loose the keeper down Fox can’t get control of it the ball put over for a goal kick. It’s hot out there and with 23 minutes played it’s time for a drinks break.

Haringey’s Aaliyah Boyea with St Ives fullback Sasha Smith

  St Ives get straight on the attack from the restart Griffin playing a good ball out to Burnley on the right wing has another go from the angle this shot narrowly over the crossbar. St Ives beginning to exert some pressure in the final third winning a corner on the left inswinging near post Haringey get it behind for a 2nd corner. The ball into the six yard box this time controlled well by the defence and carried to safety by Boyea. Georgia Stancombe taking the ball on into the right channel gets a shot away the ball blocked deflected away for a corner. Fox isn’t being tracked by the Haringey midfield has made several good runs into the area ready to attack any ball floated in. 

Haringey’s Aaliyah Boyea with St Ives Ruth Fox

  Boyea recieves the first yellow card of the game after a strong challenge on Hannah Seymour-Shove. The 1st half moving into the final 5 minutes St Ives make a change, Katie Stancombe coming off in attack for Elisabeth Manuel. Smith plays the ball up into the left channel as Fox breaks from the middle, Shanice Nourrice getting tight into her ensuring no way past. Boyea seeing the ball well into her body breaks it down turning to play the pass down the line as Kretteis breaks in behind chasing it to the byline crosses the ball landing in the side netting. 

Haringey Borough Women’s Shanice Nourrice

  Fox getting the ball from Griffin turns sees Georgia Stancombe going on the right sends the ball up to her first touch a little heavy giving Vaz the chance to lunge in take it away from her. Georgia Stancombe in the closing seconds with a turn and hit from all of 30 yards out Rukat can watch it over her crossbar.

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies 1-0 Haringey Borough Women

  Ella Burnley’s 3rd minute lob for St Ives the difference between the sides, the hosts leading 1-0. Has been a very competitive and enjoyable first half. Not too many clear cut chances but some good build up play to different styles. Haringey certainly more direct, but that doesn’t mean long balls have got it into feet well, Kretteis in particular a threat looking to take on defenders. St Ives using the width of the pitch better, especially the right, the final ball not finding its mark just yet. 

Hannah Seymour-Shove looking to put the ball on for St Ives

  St Ives enjoying the shade behind one goal during the half-time interval to kick off the 2nd half get straight on the attack Georgia Stancombe inside to Fox 20 yards out to hit on the turn her strike charged down and cleared. Stancombe plays the ball on down the right wing for Mandel to chase, holds it up in the corner as Stancombe gets up with her to offer support, manage to fire a low cross into the box, Duggan intercepting top of the six yard box her clearance almost presents it to the on rushing Fox but deflected back to Duggan she gets it away to safety. 

  Burnley brings the ball down well on the right wing before sending it on for Stancombe up the line she crosses early flashes in Vaz tracking back with Mandel central making a superb trap with her legs falling to nullify the attack. A bright start to the 2nd half from St Ives, Fox on the ball playing it left to Seymour-Shove her knock on cut out by Nourrice. Haringey manage to squeeze the ball through to Kretteis 25 out she turns well right of the area strikes it cleanly races wide across the six yard box.  Burnley getting down the right wins her side a corner kick a good delivery swept into the area attacked by Fox her header sending it away from goal wide. 

 GOAL! 55 minutes played and St Ives capitalise on their good start to the 2nd half to take the lead. The ball pressured well in the middle of the park Seymour-Shove and Fox link up well to carry the ball on Seymour-Shove playing it on into Fox’s path closing in on the box left of the D strokes the ball low and fast wide of the static keeper to score 2-0.

Ruth Fox doubling St Ives lead in the 2nd half

  Fox regaining possession passes it to Manuel on her left as St Ives come forwards, she spots Stancombe racing into the box from the right the cross lofted in towards her, Hurtado Duran with a great last ditch tackle taking the ball away from her conceding a corner kick. Smith with the delivery from the right, again into the run of Fox jumps well but can’t direct it on target. St Ives make a 2nd change Burnley coming off on comes Tia Everdell. 

Anna Hicks defending for St Ives Town Ladies

 Haringey have been on the back foot for a large spell early in the 2nd half St Ives getting control of the middle of the park the visitors still pose a threat however and a snap shot from distance from Kretteis reminds the St Ives defence to stay alert. Carruthers 25 yards out through the middle has support from Boyea look in for a moment as Markwell comes racing out to the top of the area Boyea stabbing the ball past her but can’t direct it on target. Another drinks break called is hot out there, mustn’t complain however.

Beatriz Kretteis looking to flick the ball on for Haringey

  As play resumes Mandel finds herself played through in attack has Fox getting up the park to support the pass towards her cut out, Fox is quickly back to catch and tackle Boyea as she threatens to break for Haringey. Haringey keep possession in the St Ives half winning a corner, is a good delivery in from the left flashing over heads invitingly in the six yard box…

 GOAL! From that corner St Ives break the corner long to their left gathered and played on quickly the home side race on Seymour-Shove on the ball down the wing has support inside from Fox and Mandel to her left. Seymour-Shove and Fox combine exchanging passes before breaking into the area left side the ball blocked skips loose for Manuel to latch onto take a touch and fire cross the keeper low into the bottom corner to score her first goal for the club 3-0.

 St Ives are full of confidence now as McGeown races forwards right side to fire a low cross into the box, Hurtado Duran cutting it out well. Seymour-Shove comes off for St Ives with Katie Stancombe returning to the pitch. The hosts winning a corner on the right an inswinging ball threatening the Haringey goal keeper Rukat gets up well to punch it away behind for a 2nd corner this on taken long is cleared at the far post. For all their attacking, St Ives must stay on the guard at the back as Kretteis let’s a shot fly from distance left of the box shooting for the top corner Markwell must see it late but produces a superb diving save to her left to glove the ball away from a throw. 

Haringey defender Valeria Hurtado Duran

 Fox with the ball at her feet central plays a fantastic ball out to the advancing McGeown on the right side, Hurtado Duran coming out quickly to meet her with a good tackle to win the ball back for Haringey. Haringey get up high on the left side a, Carruthers into Duggan to strike central outside the box the shot blocked by Hicks for St Ives. Markwell sees a ball safely into her midriff moments later as Kretteis has a strike from distance. Burnley returning to the action for St Ives as Georgia Stancombe comes off. Moments after her introduction Burnley wins a penalty as she is brought down clumsily inside the box by Duggan after the Haringey midfielder is caught in possession by the winger at the top of her box.

GOAL! Burnley setting the ball down on the spot hits it low to the keepers right, Rukat goes the right way down sharply makes the save getting her glove on the ball pushed back out into the box St Ives are quickest to react another shot blasted in put across goal Rukat is up quickly making a superb blocking save with her feet but is desperately unlucky then as the ball is put straight into the path of the penalty taker Burnley who makes no mistake this time blasting it high into the roof of the net to score her 2nd of the game less than 10 minutes to play 4-0.

  Haringey look to get on St Ives backing off Hurtado Duran carries the ball into opposition territory, not closed down takes aim from 35 yards out on target the ball not troubling Markwell. The St Ives keeper sharply down at her near post to deny Kretteis from close range soon after as Nourrice wins it on the right for the visitors. The ball sent behind for a corner. Markwell getting a fist on the delivery before her defence send it clear. 

  Flack defending well against Kretteis as the Haringey forward holds the ball up well aiming to turn inside the box looking for power in her strike, Flack getting her leg in to block. Fox coming off in the closing stages replaced by Seymour-Shove. Boyea striking from a long way out for Haringey top of the centre circle Markwell watching it wide of her left post. One last attack for St Ives as Everdell bringing the ball down central puts it into the path of Mandel who strikes it hard Rukat down smartly to push it wide of her goal. 

Full time St Ives Town Ladies 4-0 Haringey Borough Women

 The final whistle blows and it’s St Ives who start their league campaign with a win 4-0 against Haringey. That result coupled with the only clean sheet kept on the opening day puts them top of the ERWFL Premier Division table. A strong 2nd half performance getting hold of the midfield and making good attacking runs seeing the hosts score a further 3 goals. A result that will give them plenty of confidence going forwards. Didn’t have it all their own way Haringey matching them 1st half mounting so good attacks of their own, the 2nd goal early on in the 2nd period seeing St Ives gain more confidence and push on for further goals the clean sheet up the other end just as important. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this weekends Women’s Football East – Player of the Match, these thing’s are rarely easy you know and today is no exception but I do have the benefit of a raft of notes collected to help me out. A few contenders to mention, firstly for Haringey, Beatriz Kretteis fantastic leading the line causing a threat pace and power, good ball control was perhaps unlucky not to have a goal to her name. For St Ives had it down to three, although it was a good all round team performance. Ella Burnley with two goals making some great attacking runs down the right. Georgia Stancombe really shone in the 2nd period edging them out though the award goes to Ruth Fox scored a great goal making a good run through the middle, did so throughout the game and gave her teammates a passing option whenever the hosts were in possession.

  Good to finally see both sides at last has been a while for both enforced or otherwise, an enjoyable game the ERWFL Premier Division is going to be a great watch this season no doubt. My thanks to both sides for the team details much appreciated as always.

 

Match Report – St Ives Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies

Sunday 19th August

  The new season is here at last and the 2018/19 campaign promises to be an exciting and intriguing one. Can’t wait to get started after having a long and much needed rest over the close season. The action begins with a game from the Eastern Region Women’s Football League (ERWFL) Division One a clash between two newly promoted sides taking the step up from their respective county leagues, St Ives Town Ladies v Lawford Ladies.

  A new look to ERWFL Division One this season as it reverts back to a single division, 13 teams contesting for a place in the Premier Division, including 4 new sides. Throws up alot of interesting games over the season, and is an opportunity for players to test themselves at a higher level.

  St Ives Town Ladies join the ERWFL fresh from winning the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership title last season and are joined by runners-up Newmarket Town Ladies. A young side St Ives Town Ladies benefit from a strong pool of footballing talent in the area and along with the first team a development side was formed last season competing in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South.  

  After losing their opening game last season St Ives Town never looked back, going on to win all but one of their remaining games (that game drawn) to clinch the Premiership title just their 3rd season. Georgia Stancombe top scoring last season with 26 goals from 25 appearances. Manager Darren Marjoram has retained last season’s squad making a handful of new additions, striker Lauren Gibson local to the area played for Cambridge United WFC’s first team in the FAWNL (formerly the FAWPL) last season whilst Caitlin Jarman comes in from Histon’s U17s side. Both start on the bench today. Defender Emily Stephenson previously with Wisbech Town Ladies and Fran Worrall returning to the game after 5 years will also provide competition for places.

Lawford Ladies join the ERWFL from the Essex Women’s Premier Division along with last season’s champion’s Hatfield Peverel Ladies. Finishing 3rd last campaign had a potent attack with Daisy Canny and Jasmine Cox scoring 50 goals between them. Tyler Christou joining midway through last season added a further goal threat. Have retained the services of most of their squad too as they make the step up to regional football, Jessica Collinson is making her come back season after taking a few years break whilst Marta Filip is new to the game. 

An earlier start to the season than both teams have previously been used to, the county leagues usually beginning in the 2nd weekend of September. Westwood Road the new home for the St Ives Town Ladies this season sharing the ground with the mens team. A wide pitch has recovered well from the rigours of last season and the heatwave that we enjoyed earlier in the summer. Hot drinks available aswell as a bar. Still benefiting from the hot weather although overcast this afternoon, becoming muggy later on before the sun finally broke through.

St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Kira Markwell, Stephanie Ransome, Sasha Smith, Ellie Brown, Mollie Flack, Hannah Seymour-Shove, Anna Hicks, Tierney Coulson, Katie Stancombe, Amy Seymour-Shove (C) & Georgia Stancombe. Subs- Caitlin Jarman, Megan Stow & Lauren Gibson.

Lawford Ladies starting XI – Jamie Newsome, Hayley Chapman, Sheena Foley, Tyler Christou, Ella Boyden, Keeley Brickwood, Jessica Collinson, Jade Heath, Daisy Canny (C), Jasmine Cox & Erin Hornby. Subs – Gemma Issacs, Claire Gauntlett & Marta Filip.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  The season begins! Lawford to take the kick-off wearing green coloured shirts with white sleeves, green shorts and socks. St Ives lined up opposite in their home colours black and white vertical striped shirts with black shorts and socks. The visitors play the ball out to the left St Ives right back Stephanie Ransome winning the ball.

 GOAL! Inside the opening minute the 1st goal is scored St Ives break, captain Amy Seymour-Shove running clear into acres of space on the left the diagonal ball finding her the winger takes the ball on into the area as players from both sides rush back into the area, Seymour-Shove plays the ball a deflection of a defender sees it deflected out of the area straight to Tierney Coulson 20 yards out connects with the ball her dipping strike flashing past goalkeeper Jamie Newstead into the back of the net 1-0.

An early setback for Lawford get on from the restart the ball out to Jasmine Cox on the left head down she takes on the St Ives defence before whipping a cross into the area, Mollie Flack clearing the ball for St Ives. Lawford come on again down the right side this time Daisy Canny sending a ball in towards the top of the area, Ellie Brown winning the ball for St Ives. Canny showing good pace and close ball control drives on down the right tackled by Sasha Smith the ball out for a throw before she can cross.

Lawford Ladies captain, Daisy Canny

  St Ives are moving the ball quickly Georgia Stancombe leading the line always poised to break in behind, Amy Seymour-Shove finding space on the left as midfielder Anna Hicks brings the ball on with purpose. Keeley Brickwood getting back to tackle Amy Seymour-Shove as she attempts to turn inside into the area for a shot. On the counter attack the ball is played high up to Erin Hornby in attack for Lawford the ball coming to Cox making a far post run her low cross into the six yard box intercepted by Flack.

Lawford’s, Jade Heath and St Ives Town, Anna Hicks challenge for the ball

  Hannah Seymour-Shove picking the ball up deep for St Ives finds her sister Amy on the left her short pass in turn through the middle has Georgia Stancombe clear on goal momentarily, Brickwood showing great recovery skills once again gets back to tackle the forward on the edge of the box. 

 GOAL! 15 minutes in and St Ives go on to double their lead, Lawford losing their shape a little as Anna Hicks comes on through the middle with the ball has Amy Seymour-Shove free ahead of her on the left rolls the ball on for her the winger taking on to the top corner of the area time to set her sights sends a curling effort in towards goal across the face in drop inside the top corner and make it 2-0. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Amy Seymour-Shove

Hicks tries her luck from outside the area as the ball is played into her from a throw in the right, opening up her body for the strike her low effort is straight at Newstead the keeper gathering. St Ives build an attack on the right Katie Stancombe, with Ransome the ball on for Georgia Stancombe drifting across to support drills a shot in from the angle the ball behind at the near post. St Ives are dominating as Lawford struggle to get an attack going Canny running into traffic on the right. 

  GOAL! Isn’t long before St Ives go 3 up, Georgia Stancombe this time finding room in behind on the left cuts inside into the box evading a challenge getting central strikes the ball from 8 yards out, Newstead do low sharply initially makes a great stop the ball however rebounds straight back to Stancombe and composed the striker lifts the ball over the stranded keeper to score 3-0.

St Ives Town Ladies, Georgia Stancombe

St Ives are on top in the game pressing forwards at will Katie Stancombe on the right with the run forwards her cross squared across the top of the area finds Amy Seymour-Shove position left of the D, sends her shot narrowly wide of the far post. Canny is looking the most likely to get anything going for Lawford up front the ball rolled into her by Jessica Collinson she twists and turns heading towards the St Ives box right of goal finds room for a shot but drags her effort wide off target. 

  Coulson with a menacing run forwards past two players before trying to set up Amy Seymour-Shove on the left the ball runs out of play. Jade Heath stepping in to challenge Georgia Stancombe breaks up an attack outside the box. St Ives come on down the right Katie Stancombe bursting forwards cuts the pass back for Georgia  arriving inside the D her low shot is straight at the keeper. 

Sheena Foley with the ball into Heath rolled forwards into Hornby getting an early cross into the box, Cox is making a far post run, Brown cuts the ball out before it can find her. Foley comes back to tackle Hicks as she makes an attacking run through midfield for St Ives. A triple change for the home side, Amy and Hannah Seymour-Shove along with Coulson coming off to be replaced by, Caitlin Jarman, Megan Stow and Lauren Gibson.

 GOAL! An inspired change by manager Darren Marjoram (maybe?) well the substitutions make an immediate impact, Hicks on the ball carries it over halfway her pass picking out Jarman breaking away on the right side she fires a cross in towards the near post where Gibson has timed her run perfectly to meet the ball and fire it over the keeper at close range 4-0.

Lauren Gibson on target moments after making her competitive debut for St Ives Town Ladies

Lawford have struggled to get to grips with the St Ives attackers and the home side are on the attack once again Georgia Stancombe receiving the ball into her body has Hicks making an overlapping run to her left 30 yards out, Tyler Christou, stays with the midfielder making a good challenge inside the box as Brickwood gets back to help her out and clear the ball. 

  Late into the 1st half and Canny is adjudged to have been brought down as she attacks on the right the free kick 25 yards out Hornby to play the ball into the area aiming far post St Ives put the clearance straight into Collinson positioned at the top of the D, coming at her quickly her reactive strike is placed wide of goal. 

Half-time St Ives Town Ladies 4-0 Lawford Ladies

  A dominant first half display from St Ives as they begin life in the ERWFL, taking a 1st minute lead have been in full control of the half throughout creating numerous chances and scoring a further 3 goals. Space has been easy to come by Lawford struggling to get to grips have lost their shape on several occasions, need to sharpen up for the 2nd half or risk being over-ridden, a far from ideal start to their season, still 45 minutes to try and put it right.

Lawford make a change at the start of the 2nd half Claire Gauntlett on for Hayley Chapman, goes into central midfield along with Hornby who drops into a deeper role 4 at the back. It’s St Ives to get the 2nd half underway. Canny and Cox operating closer together up top Gauntlett adding strength to the midfield for Lawford attempts to roll Canny in turning inside the Lawford captain is tackled by Brown. The visitors getting at St Ives in midfield early in the 2nd half breaking up play Cox coming back to challenge Hicks for the ball. 

Jasmine Cox and Anna Hicks contest in midfield

Canny wriggling free as she attacks down the left sends a cross into the six yard box, goalkeeper Kira Markwell with little to in the 1st half takes the ball comfortably. Hicks coming on with the ball for St Ives has Jarman in space on her right sends an early cross into the area, Newstead doing well to gather the ball at her near post under challenge from Gibson. Moments later Gibson almost finds the back of the net as she is fed the ball inside the box left of goal squeezing it past the advancing keeper, her defence is back though able to reach the ball and bring it safely away. 

GOAL! Lawford pull a goal back early in the 2nd half, breaking from a St Ives set-piece outside their area the ball is played long up to Cox up top, bouncing a tricky one for the St Ives central defence, Markwell comes rushing out to pressure Cox knows she can’t handle the ball her challenge sees the ball deflect away to her right inside the D, Cox is after it and twisting and turning holding the St Ives defenders at bay swings her foot through the ball to send it over the back peddling Markwell into the net beyond 4-1.

Jasmine Cox, pulls a goal back for Lawford Ladies

Katie Stancombe steals in to win the ball on the left as Lawford attempt to play it out from the back, Christou with a burst of pace getting back at her to make the challenge concedes a corner. Lawford defend have improved 2nd half look more solid. Foley sends the ball on for Heath breaking forwards however Markwell can get to the ball first. A double switch for St Ives Coulson and Hannah Seymour-Shove return to the action in place of Ransome and Georgia Stancombe, this sees Hicks drop into the back line. 

Stow wins the ball in the middle brings it forwards looking to get Jarman away, Boyden closes her down to win the ball back for Lawford at left back. Boyden needed again as she makes a vita interception showing good control on the ball as it. Both sides make a change, Marta Filip enters the pitch for Lawford replacing Hornby, Amy Seymour-Shove is back on in place of Gibson. The game a little stretched end to end as Lawford look to see if they can pull another back, possession swinging back and forth Katie Stancombe having come over to the left slices a first time shot wide from the edge of the box.

St Ives Town Ladies, Megan Stow looks to get past Lawford’s, Ella Boyden

Cox is fouled as she attacks centrally 25 yards out, takes the free-kick herself lines up a shot a curling effort on target but at a comfortable height never troubling Markwell who sees it early. At the other end Newstead produces a fine save to deny Hannah Seymour-Shove a goal as she sends in a low shot from a Katie Stancombe cross squared in across the top of the box, Newstead diving low to her right to push the ball behind.

  GOAL! Both sides are wanting to attack and with the ball lost on halfway Lawford are on the back foot at St Ives break forwards in number, Katie Stancombe with the driving run on the right down the line cuts her cross back towards the top of the area, Hicks his there goes for it, but so to is Hannah Seymour-Shove closing each other down, Seymour-Shove right of the D snatches at her strike sending the ball angling wide across the face of the Lawford goal, is retrieved by Amy Seymour-Shove before it can go out and as Newstead goes to close her down at the far post the St Ives captain lays the ball inside for Coulson running in for the pass to drive the ball into the back of the net for her 2nd of the match 5-1.

  GOAL! 5 quickly becomes 6 and it’s Coulson again as she completes her hat-trick, play stretched as Katie Stancombe breaks away clear on the right side sends a vicious cross in low across the six yard box, where Coulson his bursting through centrally to slide in and meet the ball turn it into the goal 6-1.

An opening day hat-trick for St Ives Town Lades, Tierney Coulson

A blot of Coulson’s day follows soon after as she somewhat clumsily brings down Canny on halfway earning her the first yellow card of the match. Katie Stancombe comes off for St Ives late on Jarman heading back on. Boyden getting a good challenge in to stop Jarman getting in behind as Stow plays her in. 

Lawford Ladies, Ella Boyden

  Georgia Stancombe looking to break in behind the Lawford defence is played through by Stow in the middle heading for the box she is brought down by Brickwood the free-kick awarded and a decision to be made by the referee. Far from a goal scoring opportunity with the keeper back on her line a yellow card is shown to the defender. Stancombe over the free-kick driven low into the box blocked the deflection comes straight to Coulson her snap shot fired in low on target is saved superbly by Newstead throwing herself to the right.

 Newstead with another top draw save to deny Stancombe again a few minutes later as Coulson slips the ball through to her inside the area, clear of the Lawford defence Newstead gets down to stop her shot finding the back of the net once again.  

Full time St Ives Town Ladies 6-1 Lawford Ladies

  A fantastic start to the season by St Ives Town Ladies as the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership champions start life in the ERWFL with a convincing 6-1 victory. Scoring in the opening minute went on to dominate the first half leading 4-0 at the break, Lawford improved 2nd half got a goal back but St Ives had energy to burn and Coulson went on to score her hat-trick at make it 6-1. A confidence boosting start to carry into their FA Cup match against Corby Town Ladies next Sunday. A tough opening defeat for Lawford who can’t have too many complaints were pulled apart 1st half much better 2nd half and know they will have to sharpen up if they want to avoid similar results, certainly have the squad to do so.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  So for the first Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the season. The rules are still the same, there can only be one, which makes it very hard to decide sometimes but then I don’t have to make my choice until the match report is complete (although I do sometimes) a few contenders for St Ives today but overall I have picked Katie Stancombe excellent playing out wide be it left or right involved in setting up chances and of course goals.

St Ives Town Ladies, Katie Stancombe

  It feels good to be back the season finally started I really do enjoy writing these match reports and that’s mostly down to the sport I have the privilege of witnessing. I did want to try and write less words but I’ve failed miserably in that regards haven’t I. My thanks to both teams for there help with the team details always appreciated and to St Ives for their generous hospitality, best of luck to both sides for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies

The football action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday came from the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup a new format this season the sides split into 8 Groups with a mixture of Premiership and Championship sides in each with the winners progressing to the quarter final knock-out stages. Group F featured 2 Premiership sides, Newmarket Town Ladies & St Ives Town Ladies both having won their opening 2 matches were both on 6 points at the top of the table now playing each other in a must win game to progress, Newmarket Town holding top spot on goal difference.

Match Report – Newmarket Town Ladies v St Ives Town Ladies

 
  Trip to Newmarket today to the Ridgeons Stadium to watch the deciding match in the group stages of this seasons, Cambridgeshire S-Tech Women’s League Cup with Newmarket Town Ladies hosting St Ives Town Ladies tied at the top of the table on 6 points in Group F vying for a place in the quarter final knock-out matches in the New Year.

  A new look for the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup this year with the early stages being held in a group format the sides across the three leagues in the County the Women’s Premiership and Championship North and South drawn to face each other in 8 Groups A-H with 3 or 4 sides in each playing each other once a Premiership side in each against Championship opposition. With 9 sides competing in the Premiership one Group has 2 sides in it and that is Group F featuring both Newmarket Town Ladies and St Ives Town Ladies along side Championship South sides Isleham United Ladies and Fulbourn Bluebirds.

  A good start to the season for both sides in the Premiership. Newmarket Town Ladies currently 2nd in the table won their 1st 4 league games before suffering their 1st defeat against Cambridge United WFC Reserves who took over at the top 2 weeks ago. Drawn into Group F were on the road for their 1st 2 games against Championship South sides, Fulbourn Bluebirds and Isleham United Ladies winning their 1st game 9-0 the 2nd 3-0 hold the advantage over St Ives Town Ladies on goal difference.

  St Ives Town Ladies are into their 2nd season as a club having formed for the 2015/16 season, recognise a few of their squad from the Sawtry Ladies side I covered on the blog in it’s very early days. also a few players in the squad who used to play for Huntingdon Town Ladies too. With St Ives Town already having youth sides in girls football the platform was in place to form a women’s team. Did well in their 1st season winning promotion up to the Premiership and of the 3 sides promoted from the Championship’s North and South this season are doing well in 3rd place in the table. Have also played Isleham United Ladies and Fulbourn Bluebirds in their 1st 2 group F matches winning 4-0 and 4-1 at home to have 6 points, today a must win game if they wish to advance to the knock-out stages of the Cambridgeshire League Cup the 2 sides have met in the league already this season Newmarket Town Ladies winning 2-0 away from home. 
   

Group F                
                   
Pos Team Pl W D L F A GD Pts
1 Newmarket Town Ladies 2 2 0 0 12 0 12 6
2 St Ives Town Ladies 2 2 0 0 8 1 7 6
3 Isleham United Ladies 2 0 0 2 0 7 -7 0
4 Fulbourn Bluebirds 2 0 0 2 1 13 -12 0

 The venue for today’s match, Newmarket Town FC’s Ridgeons Stadium. A brand new state of the art cork based 3G pitch. A very good playing surface and one of the best artificial surfaces I’ve seen. A covered stand with seating on one side of the pitch, along side the clubhouse and bar with hot food and drink available, Barry’s Snack Shack served up one of the best cheeseburgers I have had in a while. A bright sunny end to November, a few dark clouds around and these would grow to make it chilly and gloomy over the course of the game.

 Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI – Eloise Hope, Jasmine Woodfield, Olivia Orme, Jess Linger, Beth Woodfield (C), Abbie Marshall, Cindy Ponder, Abbi Griffin, Joeli Kirby, Nadine Basson & Lauren Deller.
 subs – Lauren Blackaby & Molly Agnew

 St Ives Town Ladies starting XI – Kira Markwell, Steph Ransome, Penny Ford, Molly Berryman, Molly Flack, Megan Stow, Sophie Marheineke, Georgia Stancombe, Amy Seymour-Shove, Hannah Seymour-Shove & Sasha Smith (C).
 subs – Connie Liddiard, Chloe Stefanelli, Jade Carpenter, Leigh Chatten & Jorgie Hall.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Newmarket to kick off the 1st half wearing yellow shirts with blue trim on the shoulders and sides blue shirts with yellow trim on the sides and yellow socks with two blue and white bands with St Ives Town lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The home side look to attack from the off the ball played up through the middle looking for Joeli Kirby making a run on the left, Molly Flack stepping forwards to get her head on the ball clear for St Ives. Newmarket trying again on the right, Abbi Griffin on the ball getting down the line and putting a cross into the box, St Ives goalkeeper, Kira Markwell claiming confidentially at her near post. 
  Markwell is out to the edge of her area, clearing the ball as Cindy Ponder plays Kirby in up the left, puts the ball into the middle along the ground trying to pick out Lauren Deller running through the middle the St Ives goalkeeper getting to the ball 1st. A fast start to the match both sides looking to get the ball out to their wide players attack down the wings. A free-kick for Newmarket inside the St Ives half on the right side Jess Linger on the ball plays it long up into the box, the header clear putting the ball out for a throw on the right is by St Ives Molly Berryman.

The Newmarket Town Ladies defence, Olivia Orme in the front of the picture, Jess Linger and captain Beth Woodfield
beyond keep their eye on the in coming ball, pictured with St Ives Hannah Seymour-Shove
  From the throw the ball is cleared out to the left comes to Newmarket, left back Olivia Orme looks to send it back in quickly towards the top of the area with striker Nadine Basson making a move from right to left across the D, colliding with the St Ives defender challenging her manages to get the ball on into the box races away behind for a goal kick before Kirby can chase it down. Ponder has a strike on goal from all of 30 yards out, the shot straight at Markwell who takes it cleanly. Coming forwards on the left side Griffin sends the ball high into the box, Deller arriving sees the ball over her shoulder hitting it on the volley trying to pick out the top corner curls wide of the mark.
  St Ives are working hard to close the ball down, Megan Stow winning possession in the middle gets it forwards, helped on St Ives captain, Sasha Smith leading the attack is fed in down the right on the run hits a shot from the edge of the box in low towards the near post, Eloise Hope in the Newmarket goal makes a comfortable save. Georgia Stancombe brings the ball down the right, loops a cross up into the Newmarket area Beth Woodfield Newmarket’s captain heads the ball away from danger. 

St Ives Town Ladies, Megan Stow is beaten to the ball by Newmarket’s Abbi Griffin

  Orme getting forwards with the ball on the left for Newmarket plays the pass in field getting Basson onto the ball running through the centre, rolls it forwards into the box with Ponder getting up field to her right, Markwell off her line quickly gets to the ball and slides in to claim. Griffin up the right wing for Newmarket crosses early the ball along to top of the St Ives area for Deller who attempts to bring it down and turn to shoot, Flack is on her shoulder the defender doing well to prevent the shot the ball going out for a goal kick.

  A little to casual at the back from Hope as the goalkeeper with the ball at her feet loos to pass it out of her area inside to Woodfield, St Ives, Hannah Seymour-Shove bursting forwards latching onto the ball drives into the box, Hope recovers quickly and getting across throws herself into a full long dive to make the blocking save as Seymour-Shove shoots. Hope makes a good catch inside her six yard box moments later not put off as Hannah Seymour-Shove throws herself forwards trying to get onto the end of a Stancombe cross put in from the right.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Nadine Basson
  Basson plays the ball on for Kirby on the left, a little long, Kirby does well to keep it in before she can get her head up and cross, Steph Ransome gets back at her and tackling wins the ball for St Ives, Newmarket prevent the break keeping the ball on the left rolled into Basson left corner outside the box curls a ball over the defence dropping into the six yard box, Markwell down low makes the save pushing the ball out to the right, Penny Ford getting it away as Griffin closes her down.
  Ponder wins the ball in the middle of the park gets the pass into Kirby on the left in behind squares a cross along the floor into the six yard box, Markwell down to see it into her gloves before Basson or Deller can arrive. Griffin tries her luck from 25 yards out a curling effort lacks the height to trouble Markwell. Newmarket make a double switch, Kirby and Ponder come off, Lauren Blackaby and Molly Agnew come on. 
  GOAL! Newmarket have been pressing forwards looking for the opening goal of the match, however it is the visitors who get themselves in front 25 minutes into the 1st half, Sophie Marheineke along side Stow in the middle of the park has been getting the tackles in to win the ball break up play, gets forwards carrying the ball on towards the Newmarket box has Stancombe ahead of her looking to get in behind the defence threads the pass into her run taking it on into the box, Hope comes rushing out goes to ground Stancombe takes the ball past her and sends it into the empty net beyond 0-1.

Georgia Stancombe pictured getting back to help in defence
gives St Ives Town Ladies the lead

 

St Ives Town Ladies
Sophie Marheineke

 Newmarket get straight back on the attack from the restart Abbie Marshall playing the ball into Griffin who looks to play the ball into Agnew on the left top of the area looks to cut inside, Ransome defends well to deny her a goal scoring opportunity. Orme up field passes the ball into Deller central back to goal outside the box, looks to lay it to Agnew on the left coming into the box again Ransome puts in the challenge. A great ball over the top with Basson getting in behind the St Ives defence hits the falling ball on the half volley outside the box the shot straight at Markwell the keeper dropping forwards onto the bouncing ball.

 GOAL! 4 minutes after going in front, St Ives double their lead. The visitors launching a counter attack with Marheineke getting forwards again the ball is played up field, a back heel to help it on Marheineke plays it on trying to pick out Smith as the Newmarket defence try to clear, Smith gets in to challenge win the ball top of the area shifts the ball to her right and curls her shot around the keeper into the goal beyond to score 0-2.

St Ives Town Ladies
captain Sasha Smith


 
  St Ives enthused by 2 quick goals press forwards Smith out to the left strong on the ball drives into the box, Beth Woodfield stands her ground and wins the tackle before a shot can be released. Another double switch for Newmarket with Ponder and Kirby back on for Basson and Deller. Agnew bursting down the left wing sends in a low cross for Newmarket into the six yard box Markwell calls and gathers as Berryman misses her attempted clearance in front of her.
  Marshall with the ball at her feet for Newmarket on the right plays the diagonal ball into the box with Kirby breaking forwards into the area, hits the shot puts the ball wide behind the goal. Ponder gets in behind the St Ives defence on the left squares the ball along the six yard box too many bodies to get through before the cross can reach Kirby at the far post the ball is cleared out of the box Griffin 1st to it 25 yards out goes to shoot sends her strike over the bar. 

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-2 St Ives Town Ladies

  A 2-0 lead for St Ives at the break as the 2 sides head to the dressing room. A busy 1st half, the advantage with St Ives now hold onto the lead and they will progress to the knock-out stages of the league cup at Newmarket’s expense. Have put in alot of work 1st half defending well at the back, Markwell confident behind her defence. Their goals coming as Newmarket were pressing for the lead themselves, had created more chances in front of goal, it’s the ones that cross the line however that count and St Ives took both their goals well to do that.
  Has got decidedly chilly as the sides come out for the 2nd half the sky full of dark clouds the light starting to fade. St Ives to kick-off the 2nd half Deller is back on for Newmarket. The home side press early a strong run on the ball from Griffin on the right wing whips the ball into the box trying to pick out Deller trying to bring it down is closely marked by Flack the ball is pushed out of the area with Linger getting forwards strikes the shot looping into the air is touched by Markwell. A corner on the right put in towards the top of the area, players making runs the ball isn’t picked up runs through to Blackaby who hits a shot up and over the crossbar. 

Abbie Marshall on the ball for Newmarket Town Ladies 
  Ford tackles to win the ball for St Ives at the back up field into Stow on for Smith a quick break the ball in passed into Stancombe racing in behind from the right shoots early the ball flying wide at the near post. Newmarket bring Ponder back on replacing Linger who has taken a knock. Pressure from Deller forces an error form the St Ives defence outside the box gets the ball and rolls it into Kirby inside the box closed down gets it squared centrally to Marshall who shoots puts the ball straight at Markwell the keeper getting her gloves wrapped around the ball. Basson returns to the action for Newmarket with Agnew coming off.

Kira Markwell in goal for St Ives Town Ladies

   A delay in play as Stancombe comes off the worst as she and Ponder come together inside the box as the ball is punched away by Markwell in front of the pair as Griffin lifts a cross into the box. A free kick to Newmarket outside the box to the right as Deller’s run is impeded. Ponder on the set-piece sends the ball up towards the far post, Markwell with the call backpedalling plucks the ball out of the air. St Ives make their 1st chance of the match Marheineke the player coming off Connie Liddiard comes on. Another foul in the middle of the St Ives half gives Ponder another opportunity to put the ball into the box, central lifted up into the air Markwell isn’t challenged as she catches the ball.

   Amy Seymour-Shove with a run on the left takes the ball in behind the Newmarket defence cuts back inside plays the ball into Smith top of the area, a good 1st touch to take the ball away from her marker then spinning to meet the ball as it drops to the floor plays her shot straight at Hope well placed in her goal. One Seymour-Shove to the other as Hannah getting hold of the ball in the middle lays it forwards to Amy on the left getting forwards wins her side a corner, the ball is attacked at the near post, everyone misses it but despite the melee in front of her Hope claims well. 
Georgia Stancombe with Newmarket Town Ladies, Molly Agnew

  A free-kick for St Ives in the middle, Liddiard on the ball sends it long into the box, runners breaking into the area, bounces on into Hope’s gloves before it can be attacked. A 2nd change for St Ives, Leigh Chatten comes on replacing Ford at left back with a little under 20 minutes left of normal time. Griffin gets a corner for Newmarket on the right the ball put in near post is cleared behind by Berryman for a 2nd corner going longer this time flies across the six yard box Blackaby leaping can’t get her head on the ball. 

  Newmarket’s Marshall moving forwards with the ball lays the pass inside to Ponder 35 yards from goal shoots as the ball runs across her body the ball bounces a yard wide of the St Ives goal. The floodlights are switched on the clouds making it very dark above, Griffin is tackled by Chatten as she tries to go past her down the right the ball runs out for a corner, a change for St Ives before it is taken Chloe Stefanelli on for Ransome. Flack defends the corner heading away at the near post. Another change for St Ives, Smith coming off, Jade Carpenter entering the pitch.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Lauren Blackaby with St Ives Town Ladies, Amy Seymour-Shove
  Newmarket push on searching for a goal to get themselves back into the match with less than 5 minutes left the ball is played into Deller back to goal inside the D, shifts it well between her feet to find a yard of space on the turn can only pick out Markwell in the right space to claim hold of the ball in goal. Newmarket bring the ball on down the right the diagonal ball into the box is sent in low Basson breaking into the area throws herself at the ball trying to get onto the end of it as Markwell coming forwards closes the space down the ball hitting her as she and Basson come together. Basson stays down is in alot of discomfort another lengthy spell for treatment, having suffered from a nasty knee injury in the past it is a concern as she is carried off the pitch can’t continue, Agnew is readied and sent on. St Ives make another change too Jorgie Hall coming onto the pitch replacing Hannah Seymour-Shove as the game moves into injury time. 
  GOAL! Late in the game St Ives score a 3rd goal to ensure the victory and it comes from an error at the back from Newmarket have a throw at the back the ball is thrown to Hope top of her area on the left, at her feet doesn’t get rid of it as Carpenter moves to challenge for the ball nips in to get her toe on the ball, moves down the line the angle inside the area acute she opens up her body opting for placement as Hope backpedals trying to get back in her goal, sends the ball curling up towards the top corner and in to make it 0-3. A good finish.
  Hope knows it was her error holds up her hand in acknowledgement, harsh but you have to move on goalkeepers make fair more saves than errors anyone will tell you. The game moves into injury time. Newmarket keep pushing forwards the ball is with Griffin on the right running onto the ball strikes it early 30 yards out her shot/cross flashing across the face of the St Ives goal. Marshall win seconds left plays the ball on for Griffin moving in from the wing hits the ball with the outside of her boot the ball flying across the six yard box and wide at the far post as the final whistle blows. 
Full time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-3 St Ives Town Ladies

  A 3-0 win for St Ives Town Ladies sees them top Group F and advance to the quarter finals of the Cambridgeshire Women’s League Cup will be joined by Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Bar Hill Ladies and Wisbech St Marys Ladies with the other 4 groups to be decided next Sunday. Recent history shows the league cup is a wide open competition and on today’s performance St Ives Town Ladies should fancy their chances. Put alot into the game defended well, Newmarket starting well creating opportunities but not breaking the St Ives defence down the visitors growing in confidence and 2 well taken goals seeing them hold the advantage a half-time. A good all round team performance keeping Newmarket at bay 2nd half nicking a goal late on to make sure of the win.
  Disappointment for Newmarket going out of the league cup and a blow to see Nadine Basson leaving the pitch on a stretcher will be missed hoping it’s not too serious an injury and wish her all the best and for a speedy recovery. My thanks to both Newmarket’s Luke Worley and St Ives, Darren Majoram for their help with the teams today.