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The Round-Up – FAWPL 29/01/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 29th January

After two weekends of heavy postponements across the East in January, The Round-Up returns to it’s original format as more games beat the weather than not in the final weekend of the month. Outstanding cup ties that had been put back over the last two Sunday’s finally getting played 39 games were played this Sunday, as a pose to the 40 that were postponed last weekend.

FAWPL Southern Division

Was a significant amount of rainfall prior to this Sunday and it did affect most leagues across the East, in the FAWPL Southern Division the top of the table clash between league leaders, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and 3rd placed Cardiff City Ladies both side yet to be beaten in the league was called off the pitch at Cheshunt FC water-logged.

The other 3 games scheduled for this Sunday in the FAWPL Southern Division beat the weather and it was 4th placed Charlton Athletic Women who took full advantage to close the gap on the leaders as they took on bottom side West Ham United Ladies at Sporting Club Thamesmead. Charlton created plenty of chances in the 1st half however it looked like the sides might be heading into the dressing room with the score all square at 0-0 when Charley Clifford was on hand to meet Avilla Bergin’s cross and scored to give the home side the lead. Moment later in injury time Charlton extended the lead awarded a penalty, up stepped Ruby Southgate to score from the spot her 1st goal for the club.

2-0 the lead at half-time Charlton pressed more more goals 2nd half, on the 74th minute a sight all their fans wanted to see, not so much the opposition maybe as striker Gemma Shepherd returned to the pitch after recovering to full fitness from hip surgery earlier in the season. A minute later Clifford scored her 2nd of the game to see the lead extended to 3-0. Into the last 10 minutes Kit Graham netted Charlton’s 4th goal. The final score 5-0 to Charlton with 2nd half substitute Bupe Okeowo scoring her 1st goal for Charlton. The win sees Charlton up from 4th to 2nd spot 2 points behind the leaders.

Was another London derby in the FAWPL Southern Division with 5th placed Crystal Place Ladies, hosting Queens Park Rangers Ladies. The side 2nd bottom in the table proved tough opponents to break down goalkeeper Jo Ayres making a number of saves as Crystal Palace struggled to find a clinical finish. Late on Ayres was hurt in a collision and had to be replaced with no goalkeeper on the bench the job fell of an outfield substitute. The game was heading into the closing minutes the home side were awarded a free-kick the ball played into the box was headed on and Gemma Bryan was on hand to steer the ball into the back of the net and see Crystal Palace win the 3 points with a 1-0 win.

Lewes Ladies hosted, Swindon Town Ladies at The Dripping Pan on Sunday 2 points between the sides going into the game 8th and 9th respectfully. Lewes opening the scoring on the 20th minute through a own goal after Rachel Palmer’s cross was turned into the back of the Swindon net. Danielle Lane doubled Lewes lead in the 34th minute. However Swindon pulled a goal back on the stroke of half-time to narrow the deficit, Stephanie Houston with the goal for the visitors. Both sides looking for more goals 2nd half, Lewes got theirs through an unlikely source defender Rebecca Thompson volleying home from a corner to make it 3-1, her 1st goal of the season coming in the 77th minute. The 3 points seeing Lewes pull away from the bottom 3.

FAWPL South East Division One

New leaders in FAWPL South East Division One this Sunday as Milton Keynes Dons Ladies take over at the top leading for the 1st time this season with leaders Cambridge United WFC and 2nd placed AFC Wimbledon Ladies not in action. The 3rd placed side were at home at Newport Pagnell Town FC playing 2nd bottom side Norwich City Ladies. A good day at the office for Milton Keynes Dons as they won the 3 points with a convincing victory. A brace for Hannah Barrett, captain Charly Clarke also getting on the scoresheet along with teammates Leanna Doyle, Sam Gillings, Kerry Newman and Leah Cudone. The 7-0 win lifting them a point clear at the top of the South East Division One table.

5th placed Luton Town Ladies lost out in gaining ground on the sides above them at the weekend as they suffered a narrow defeat at home to Enfield Town Ladies. The sides contesting a goalless 1st half, Enfield Town went on to take the lead through an Anna Loftus goal on the 55th minute. Enfield Town captain Regan Coleman doubling the away sides lead with 20 minutes left on the clock. Joanna Rutherford pulled it back to 2-1 late on for Luton Town but it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game, Enfield move above Ipswich Town Ladies into 8th spot in the South East Division One table.

It was to Crown Meadow, home of Lowestoft Town Ladies that the football on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog came from this weekend. Bottom of the South East Division One table needing to pick up points Lowestoft Town were hosting 7th placed Denham United Ladies. Both sides wanting to use the width the large pitch offered were looking to attack from the off the ball rarely still for long. Denham had the better of the early chance forcing an excellent save from Eilish Brogan. New signing Nettie Stillinger on hand at the back to clear an Alissa Down free-kick off the goal line. 35 minutes played and Lowestoft take the lead captain Hannah Waters putting the ball into the back of the net off an Gemma Moore ball into the box. A late save with her legs from Denham goalkeeper Elizabeth Rose keeps the score down to 1-0 at half-time.

The 2nd half starting as the 1st ended both sides attacking Lowestoft quickly double their lead, Moore picking the ball up from a through on the right driving across the face of the Denham area and sends a swerving shot past the diving keeper into the back of the net. 10 minutes later and Denham comeback to level it at 2-2 with 2 quickfire goals Annie Hewitt beating the offside trap as Lowestoft attempt to clear their area from a set-piece turns back into the box and sends the ball pass Brogan to score. 2-1 becomes 2-2 straight from the restart Denham counter as Lowestoft attack the ball out to Natalie Murray on the right 25 yards out shoots early lobbing the ball over the keeper to score. Murray hands Denham the lead soon after attacking down the right the ball at her feet driving into the box sends a powerful shot past the diving Brogan to make it 3-2. Hewitt also scores her 2nd of the game given time and space to send a superb strike from distance into the back of the net. Murray turning provider to set up Denham’s 5th goal her ball into the box controlled well by Aimee Durn inside the six yard box, keeper on top of her manages to squeeze the ball past her to score the final score 5-2 to Denham. The full match report can be found in the previous post or by clicking on the link below to take you to the SWF Blog.

Lowestoft Town Ladies 2-5 Denham United Ladies

The Round-Up – 22/01/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 22nd January

For the 2nd week on a row it’s a shortened edition of The Round-Up featuring all the women’s football in the East on Sunday. There were 29 postponements last Sunday with rain being a major factor, waterlogged, pitches. This time around it was the frost hitting large parts of the region that saw 40 matches postponed for the 2nd weekend in a row it was a wipe-out in the FAWPL Southern Division. The FAWPL South East Division One also lost all it’s fixtures although Luton Town Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Ladies did kick-off at 2pm the referee had concerns and with the score 0-0 at half-time the game was abandoned as conditions worsened. Likewise it was a total fixture loss in Norfolk on Sunday with just a game handful of matches in Beds & Herts, one game in Essex. Cambridgeshire further in land fairing the better saw more of a thaw allowing matches to be played.

ERWFL

Two games beat the weather in the ERWFL both in the Premier Division. League leaders, Haringey Borough Women were playing their 1st game of year and the 1st since they sadly lost their manager Steve Browne who passed away over the new year after losing a long battle with cancer. An emotional day for the club. Suffolk side AFC Sudbury Ladies the visitors. Brooke Hills and Jessica Appeagyei with her 10th goal of the season scoring for Haringey Borough, the points shared on the day, Sophie Jeffrey scoring twice for AFC Sudbury to see them move above Writtle Ladies into 4th place in the Premier Division table.

Plenty of goals on show in the other match in the ERWFL Premier Division this Sunday with Royston Town Ladies at home to Colchester Town Ladies. The visitors finding the back of the net for 4 goals in the match as they look to pull away from bottom side Histon Ladies, however it was the side immediately above them that hit back with 6 goals to win the match and record their 4th league win of the season. Samantha Tinsley is in blistering goal scoring form this season moving onto 27 goals with a hat-trick for Royston Town. Andrea Wright with a brace and Harriet Smith with the other Royston Town goals. Northern Ireland U19s international, Miagh Downey scored early in the game for Colchester with Kira Fitzpatrick and Nancy Butler with 2 goals scoring in the 2nd half for the visitors.

Suffolk

Was League Cup quarter final weekend in Suffolk. 3 ties scheduled to be played with Walsham Le Willows having a bye through to the semi-finals following the withdrawal of Witnesham Wasps from the league. Ipswich Town Ladies Development saw their match away to Leiston St Margaret Ladies postponed and will try again next Sunday. Out of the League Cup are the current holders Brantham Athletic Ladies after they were beaten away from home on Sunday 2-0 by East Bergholt United.

East Bergholt United will play Bacton United Ladies in the semi-finals of the League Cup after they won their quarter final tie away to Copleston Ladies 3-0 on Sunday. Scoring twice in the 1st half before sealing victory with a 3rd goal in the 2nd half, Lois Balfour, Gemma Howe and Francesca Rainbird with the goals for Bacton United.

Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire dominates this shortened edition of The Round-Up with the county fairing better than most with the cold weather. Two games in Premiership, and it continues to be a tit for tattle battle at the top of the league with Cambridge United WFC Reserves and Newmarket Town Ladies both hunting for the title. Level on 18 points at the top heading into the weekend Cambridge United WFC Reserves held the advantage on goal difference their match against local rivals Cambridge University Women was postponed however giving Newmarket Town Ladies a chance to return to the top of the table with a trip to Peterborough to play ICA Sports Ladies. The visitors going ahead through Abbie Marshall (pictures) in the 11th minute, Marshall added a 2nd goal 7 minutes later. Lorna Hart pulling a goal back for ICA Sports to see them trail 2-1 at half-time.

Newmarket Town Ladies extended their lead to 3-1 with Abbi Griffin putting the ball into the back of the net with 10 minutes of the 2nd half played. Amelia Deuchars recently signed by Newmarket scored her 1st goal for the club in the 72nd minutes. Hart with her 2nd of the match pulling a gal back for ICA Sports before Jordanne Sillitoe scored in the final minute to seal a 5-2 win for Newmarket to put them 3 points clear at the top of the Premiership once again.

At the other end of the Premiership table it was a meeting between the bottom two with Park Ladies travelling to play Bourne Ladies both newly promoted to the league, both looking for their 1st win at the higher level. It was Park Ladies who were celebrating at the final whistle getting their 1st win in the Premiership following on from their cup victory last Sunday. Won the game 3-1 with goals from Chantelle Abraham, Erin Powell and Amy Newell who moves onto a dozen goals for the season so far.

Two games were also played in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North on Sunday with Wisbech Town Ladies earning a good point away to unbeaten Swineshead Institute Ladies on Sunday coming back from 1-0 down at half-time to draw 2-2 in the 2nd half. Chloe Gray ad Ellie Spendlow netting the goals for Swineshead Institute. Leah Hall and Polly Norman getting the goals in the 2nd half for Wisbech Town.

In the other game in the Championship North, 5th placed, P&L Motors Diamonds ran out 9-0 winners at home against bottom side Thurlby Tigers.

One game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South with league leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development winning big away from home to move 7 points clear at the top of the table. Were taking on Riverside Rovers Reserves. Carla Penny bagged herself a double hat-trick in the game with Erin Walusimbi, Ellie Geoghan and Amy Ozakpinar with her 1st goal for the Development side all getting a goal a piece in a 9-0 win.

The action continues in Cambridgeshire with 4 ties from the 1st Round of the Women’s Invitation Cup getting played after being called off last Sunday. Cup holders Cambridge United WFC began the defence of the trophy away to March Town United Ladies. A tough test for the Cambridgeshire Championship North leaders taking on a side 4 leagues higher. Cambridge United putting out a strong starting XI proving too strong running out 12-0 winners, Evie Gallop (pictured) scoring her 1st hat-trick for the club. There was a brace each for Paige Logie and Laura Mills. With goals each for Laura Bright, Danielle Puddefoot, Lauren Gibson and Nicole Perschky with and own goal too.

Cambridgeshire Championship South side, Milton Ladies caused an upset in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup knocking out EMWFL Division One South side, Riverside Rovers Ladies. The final score 3-2 to Milton at home, less of a surprise is their goal-scorer with Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes netting all 3 of their goals to move onto 21 goals for the season so far. Milton Ladies with now be at home to Cambridge United WFC in the quarter-finals of the Invitation Cup.

It took 2 goals in extra-time for Premiership side, Bar Hill Ladies to see off Fulbourn Bluebirds from the Championship South in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup. The scores all level at 1-1 after 90 minutes Bar Hill went on to win 3-1 in the extra-time period with goals from Rebecca Covell and a brace for Holly Ingarfield. Holly Hayes with the goal for Fulbourn Bluebirds. Bar Hill Ladies will be away to ERWFL Premier Division side Histon Ladies after they were awarded a home win against Wisbech St Marys Ladies.

With 9 goals for their Development team already listed above, Cambridge City Ladies 1st team were in equally trigger happy form at home to Cambridge Rangers on Sunday in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup the Championship South side taking on a side in form 2 leagues higher. Bella Simmons top scoring with 4 goals in the game, Sarah Mosley scoring a hat-trick. 2 goals each for Philippa Witherspoon and Charlotte Gillies too with a goal each for Amy Reed, Emma Littlewood, Bronte Rapley and Rachel Pearce in a 15-0 win will now be away to Park Ladies in the quarter finals after they beat Orton Rangers Ladies 12-0 last Sunday in the Invitation Cup.

ICA Sports will have to wait till this Sunday to see who they will face in the quarter finals of the Invitation Cup after Isleham United Ladies home game against St Ives Town was postponed for the 2nd weekend running.

Essex

Was meant to be a League Cup weekend in Essex however all but one game was lost the weather. In the game that was played Essex Women’s Division One side, Harlow Town Ladies Reserves beat Premier Division side, Alresford Colne Rangers 3-1. The rest will try again this coming Sunday.

Hutton Ladies & C&K Basildon Ladies along with Lawford Ladies & Writtle Ladies both saw their Essex Women’s County Cup quarter finals lined up with the victors of the former at home to the winners of the latter in the semi-finals. BiIlericay Town Ladies will be at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies

Beds & Herts

Two quarter finals in the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup that were postponed last Sunday fared better this time around as two more sides booked their spot in the semi-finals. Was a clash between two local rivals both level on points in the ERWFL Premier Division in 2nd and 3rd place in the table meeting in the County Cup, Bedford Ladies taking on AFC Dunstable Ladies. Natasha Fensome scoring twice for Bedford the see them advance into the last 4 of the competition where they have been drawn away to cup holders Luton Town Ladies.

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One side, Sharnbrook WFC are also through to the semi-finals of the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup with a 3-0 away win a Division Three side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues. Gemma Franklin putting Sharnbrook into an early lead 1st half with Charlotte Mullins and Claire Smith both scoring goals in the 2nd half. Sharnbrook will now be at home in the semi-finals playing either Houghton Athletic Ladies or Offley & Stopsley Women whose match was postponed again this weekend.

Just the one game beat the weather in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football leagues this Sunday but it was a significant result for Hitchin Belles on Division Two after they beat bottom side Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets 4-1 to leap from 6th in the table to 2nd to move to within a point of table toppers Flitwick Ladies with a game in hand. A brace for Shannon Page taking her goals scored tally to 20 for the season for Hitchin Belles with Charis Wakefield and Amy Jack also getting a goal each in a 4-1 win. Lauren Revell with the goal in the 1st half for Woburn & Wavendon.

The Round-Up – 15/01/17

The Round-Up

Sunday 15th January.

A slightly different edition of The Round-Up this week, with just the one to post, falling back to last season’s format which I will bring into play on a weekend such as the one we’ve just had, no surprise going to happen this time of year. A wet start to the weekend, cold too, with rain all day across much of the country on Sunday their were going to be postponements across the East in all 29 games were called off!

It was a wipe-out in the FAWPL & Suffolk, with just one game surviving in the ERWFL, however several sides from that league and the FAWPL were involved in their respective County Cup competition’s some of those falling to the weather too which will alter next weekends fixture list too. So some clubs will be in the County round-ups instead. Still plenty to bring you, 20 games did survive the weather alot of muddy kits to be washed, unfortunate if you got the job this week.

ERWFL Division One

The one match played in the ERWFL this Sunday was from ERWFL Division One with Hertford Town Ladies making the long journey up to Suffolk to play Ipswich Wanderers Ladies. Payed each other last Sunday in the reverse figure Ipswich Wanderers returning home to Suffolk with all 3 points winning the game 4-3. At home both Danielle Lynch and Jess Taylor-Allum scored for Ipswich Wanderers, however Hertford didn’t leave Suffolk empty handed, earning a point in a 2-2 draw.

Norfolk

A total of 6 matches were played in Norfolk at the weekend, the Norfolk Women’s County Cup had reached the quarter final stage. 3 of the 4 ties surviving the weather, Bohemians Ladies & holders Thorpe United will try again next Sunday after their game was called off. Plenty of goals scored in the other 3 quarter final games.

Acle United Ladies are the highest league placed side in Norfolk in the competition competing in the ERWFL Premier Division. With the rain forecast and already playing catch up with their league fixtures took the decision early to switch the match to the 3G pitch at Flegg High School in Martham where they train during the week. King’s Lynn Town Ladies were their opponents playing two leagues below but in good form in Norfolk Women’s Division One in 2nd place unbeaten in the league since the opening weekend.

King’s Lynn were encouraged by a positive start and the game was played at a high tempo, the visitors with some good opportunities to take the lead, however it was Acle United with 2 quick fire goals as the 1st half approached the half hour mark that went ahead. New signing Megan Todd (pictured) was played through into the box coming in from the right sent her shot across the keeper into the back of the net to score on her debut. A minute later Acle doubled their lead, Kate Pasque nodding the ball in from a corner. King’s Lynn kept pressing for a goal, the 1st half into the last 5 minutes a pinpoint cross from Anna Larkins into the six yard box saw Jody Wells racing in force the ball into the back of the net. 3-0 was a harsh scoreline for King’s Lynn and heads were dropping but with the half drawing to a close they got it back to 3-1 the ball played up front, Oksana Imanalijeva turns taking the ball into the box firing home from the top of the six yard box.

The 2nd half starts just like the 1st half both sides on the attack, 20 minutes played and King’s Lynn are forced into a change as Taylor Sarchet is injured helped off the pitch with her ankle bandaged up. A 4-5 minute break in play. Acle go straight on the attack from the restart and score attacking down the right Larkins plays the cross long to the far post Wells behind the gets call from Bryony Knights who arrives form the left side to turn the ball over the line to make it 4-1. King’s Lynn respond straight away captain Shelley Woods fouled in the area gets the penalty and scores. Moving into the latter stages of the match Acle are awarded a penalty after a drive into the box from Todd see’s her brought down, steps up to take it to score her score of the game. Time for one more goal at the death with Woods through beating the offside trap gets by the onrushing goalkeeper and lifts the ball over the back-tracking defence to score her 2nd of the match final score 5-3 This game was the featured match on the SWF Blog and the whole match report can be found below this post or by clicking on the link below

Acle United Ladies 5-3 King’s Lynn Town Ladies

It was another high scoring win for the other ERWFL in the competition with Wymondham Town Ladies 2nd the the Division One table at home to Norfolk Women’s Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies on Sunday. Like the 1st quarter final a two league gap between the sides, Wymondham Town opened the scoring on 19 minutes Kayleigh Holloway with the goal. Chelsea Clarke with an assist for the 1st goal, put the ball into the back of the net herself to make it 2-0 in the 26th minute. Laura Wiseman seeing Wymondham Town into a 3-0 lead. Two goals within 2 minutes 17 minutes into the 2nd half from Alice Collins and Wiseman made it 5-0, Stalham Town pulled a goal back soon after before Holloway with her 2nd of the game and Clarke in the 90th minutes scored her 2nd to see Wymondham Town into the semi-finals.

In the other quarter-final tie played on Sunday, 2nd Division side Briston Wanderers Ladies were leading at home against Division One side and last season’s beaten finalists, Aylsham FC Ladies. The 2nd half saw the match tied at 2-2 going into the last 30 seconds Aylsham FC Ladies scoring the winning goal to win the game and advance to the semi-finals

The draw for the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup was made on Monday the ties scheduled to be played Sunday 19th March with a 2pm kick off are as follows:-

Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

Bohemians Ladies or Thorpe United Ladies v Aylsham FC Ladies

Three league games also took place at the weekend, one game in Norfolk Women’s Division One and a good result at home for Bungay Town Ladies taking on Brandon Town Ladies winning the game 4-0 to climb up from 6th to 4th spot their highest position this season starting 2017 well with 2 wins scoring 15 goals and 2 clean sheets.

Two games in Norfolk Women’s Division Three and bottom side Cromer Town Ladies were put to the sword at home against league leaders Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves wracking up 15 goals without reply to open up a 4 point lead at the top of the table.

In the other match in Division Three, 2nd placed East Coast Ladies were at home to Toftwood Ladies on Sunday the home side leading the game 3-0 at half-time. Toftwood staged a 2nd half comeback however to earn a share of the points the game ending in a 4-4. Jordan Duke scoring a hat-trick for East Coast Ladies with Rosie Cook also on target.

Cambridgeshire

The fixture list was hit heavily in Cambridgeshire too disrupting the opening round of matches in this season’s Cambridgeshire Women’s Invitation Cup, with 5 of the 7 matches pushed back a week after being postponed.

A much needed win and moral boosting result for Premiership side Park Ladies in their 1st Round tie at home to Orton Rangers Ladies, bottom of the Championship South. Amy Newell scored a double hat-trick for Park, half of their goal scoring tally as they reached double figures, Kirstie Smith also netting a hat-trick. Ebony Bliss grabbing a brace with Erin Powell also getting a goal in a 12-0 victory.

Premiership side ICA Sports Ladies travelled to Championship North side, Wisbech Town Ladies on Sunday in the 1st Round of the Invitation Cup, goals from Carmen Herridge, Zoe Leddy and Megan Purnell saw the Peterborough based side edge the result 3-2 to reach the next round.

The top two in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership were in action on Sunday, league leaders, Newmarket Town Ladies away to Cambridge University Women who were playing just their 4th league game of the season. Goals from Taylor Lynn-Jones and Amanda Wainwright inside the opening 25 minutes put the home side into an early 2-0 lead. Cambridge University went on to win the game 3-1, with Eve Audoulos scoring the 3rd in the 80th minute, Nadine Basson with her 10th goal of the season scoring for Newmarket Town.

Defeat for Newmarket Town saw 2nd placed Cambridge United WFC Reserves close the 3 point gap at the top of the table and lead the table on goal difference with a big away win against bottom side Bourne Ladies. A hat-trick from Lauren Gibson, along with a brace each for Ebony Rule and Carolyn Sarafian seeing the visitors take the 3 points with a 7-0 win.

It is sad I have to do this again but it’s another edition of The Round-Up that has to report the loss of another women’s side in the leagues across the East and this time it’s from the Cambridgeshire Championship North, Spalding United Ladies no longer listed in the league table, new this season have barely played any fixtures 3 league games, hoping their players find another club and that Spalding can host another women’s football side in the near future.

Their was a game played in the Championship North at the weekend with Boston United Ladies picking up another good result away to P&L Motors Diamonds. 3 straight wins in league and cup for Boston United now lifts them up to 6th in the table. A brace each for Victoria Bradford and Stephanie Powell along with a goal each for Demi Barai, Charlie Green and Ella Marie Mcororey seeing Boston United win the match 7-2.

Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire

It was quarter final Sunday in the Bedfordshire Women’s League Cup too this weekend, however both it and the league programme was heavily affected by the weather with all but 2 matches surviving.

In the quarter final that was played Cup holders Luton Town Ladies were away to Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Clarets, who play 4 leagues below them in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two. The FAWPL South East Division One side were soon on the front foot taking the lead in the 4th minute, Lucy Webster with the goal, 2 minutes later the lead was doubled, Jodie Southbe on target. Amy Summerfield getting on the score sheet 6 minutes later to see Luton Town 3-0 inside the opening quarter hour. Erica Byron netting a goal in the 20th minute, 4-0 the advantage at half-time.

Now let up from Luton Town in the 2nd half a flurry of goals early on Jo Rutherford scoring from the penalty spot after Nicola Henman was brought down. Byron went on to score two quick fire goals to complete her hat-trick. Henman scoring to make it 8-0, with Rebecca Kane getting a goal to make it 9. Rutherford was fouled in the box herself, scored again from the penalty spot to bring up double figures. Lucy Tape scoring with 5 minutes left to see Luton Town reach the semi-finals with an 11-0 win.

The one match beating the weather in the Beds & Herts Women’s Football League was in Division One with St Albans Ladies at home playing Hitchin Town Ladies. St Albans climbing up to 4th in the Division One table with a 4-0 victory. Megan Samuels scoring a brace. Suzanne Ried and Holly Rossington also putting the ball into the back of the net.

Essex

In Essex it was also the quarter finals of the Women’s County Cup with 3 of the 4 scheduled to be played this Sunday with Hutton Ladies hosting holders C&K Basildon Ladies next Sunday. Lawford Ladies tie at home to Writtle Ladies fell victim to the weather this Sunday will try again next Sunday.

No weather issues at the Harlow Arena an all weather surface, Essex Women’s Premier Division leaders Harlow Ladies were hosting ERWFL Division One side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies, a league between the sides it was a close contest both sides scoring in the game, 1-1 after 90 minutes the quarter final headed into extra-time, the visitors scoring the winning goal to book a place in the semi-finals, Georgia Fraser with both goals for Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies.

A local derby in the other quarter final in the Essex Women’s County Cup with Billericay Town Ladies hosting fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Brentwood Town Ladies. Goals from Paris Smith, Rosi Webb and Kirsty Knight saw Billericay Town through the the semi-finals the final score 3-1 with Emma Mackie getting Brentwood Town’s goal.

Two matches beat the weather in the Essex Women’s Premier Division on Sunday. With the leading pair involved in the County Cup it was an opportunity for 3rd placed Eastern Avenue to close the gap at the top. Were away to Beacon Hill Rovers Ladies. Could only narrow the gap by a point as they were held to a 2-2, Jo Smeaton scoring both the goals for Beacon Hill Rovers.

Wickford Town Ladies recorded their 2nd league win of the season in the Premier Division on Sunday, beating Collier Row Tigers 2-1 at home to move up 2 places from 10th to 8th in the table.

Two league games also played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday and just as in the Premier Division the top two weren’t in action giving Hatfield Peveral Ladies a chance to close the gap down to just 2 points on 2nd placed Frontiers Ladies if they could get a win away to Harlow Town Ladies Reserves. Got the 3 points courtesy of a 3-1 win.

4th placed Collier Row Athletic were beaten away from home on Sunday playing FC Clacton Ladies who edged them out with a 3-2 win that lifts them up 2 places in the table to move into 5th a point behind Collier Row Athletic.

The Round-Up – Essex 08/01/17

The Round-Up

Essex – Sunday 8th January

Essex Women’s Premier Division

Just a handful of matches in the 2 Division’s across Essex to start 2017. With Essex Women’s Premier Division leaders, Harlow Town Ladies not in action it was a chance for Lawford Ladies to close the 5 point gap in 2nd, having led the table for much of the early part of the season Harlow Town with a 100% winning start moving to the top in December. Lawford began the year away to Alresford Colne Rangers, Jasmine Cox netting 4 goals for the visitors, Jade Heath and Daisy Canny also scoring a goal each in a 6-0 win to close the gap at the top to 2 points.

Eastern Avenue in 3rd place in the Essex Women’s Premier Division also enjoyed a good run towards the end of 2016 to move them up the table, continued that form at home this Sunday taking on Chigwell Ladies. 2 goals for Katie Peers in the game with Abbey Dell and Tayla Hudson also putting the ball into the back of the net in a 4-1 to secure all 3 points.

Like the 2 sides above them 4th placed Runwell Sports Ladies showed good form towards the end of the year keeping pace with Eastern Avenue the gap between them just a point as they also started 2017 with a home win taking on another of the promoted sides, Wickford Town Ladies on Sunday winning the game 3-0.

Essex Women’s Division One

The top two of Corringham Cosmos and Frontiers Ladies weren’t in action in Essex Women’s Division One this Sunday. It was an opportunity for 3rd placed Hatfield Peveral Ladies to try and close the gap to the top 2 as they began 2017 with a home game against, Chelmsford City Ladies Reserves. Failed to capitalise however as they were beaten 3-1 by the visitors with Mia Brisley scoring 3 goals for Chelmsford City to see them climb a couple of places in the table up to 5th. Cara Wilsher scoring the goal in the 1st half for Hatfield Peveral.

In the other game played in Essex Women’s Division One on Sunday, Collier Row Athletic won away from home beating Wickford Town Ladies Reserves 7-0 to climb up from 6th to 4th in the table.

The Round-Up – Beds & Herts 08/01/17

The Round-Up

Beds & Herts – Sunday 8th January

Beds & Herts Women’s Division One

Sandy Ladies ended 2016 3 points clear at the top of Beds & Herts Division One a good end to the year have struggled in the league the season before. Were looking to build on last seasons form starting at home to Houghton Athletic Ladies newly promoted to the top Division this season in 7th place with 2 wins, 2 draws and 2 losses a win would have pushed them into the midfield pack with games in hand. Ciara Craig scoring twice for Houghton Athletic in the match it wasn’t enough to take anything from the game as Sandy scored 3 times to win all 3 points to open up a 6 point gap at the top. A brace from Kirstie Gavin with Amber Williams also on target in a 3-2 win.

Bishops Stortford Ladies move up a place from 4th to 3rd with an away victory in Sunday. Were playing Sharnbrook WFC in 6th place in the Division One table the home side scoring a goal in each half through Gemma Franklin and Haley Traette-Reynolds. Bishops Stortford scoring 4 goals to win the match, Lauren Maynard with a brace along with a goal a piece for Brogan McHale and Kathryn Stanley. Move level on 15 points with 2nd placed Sherrardswood Ladies and have two games in hand on leaders Sandy.

Beds & Herts Division Two

3 games in Beds & Herts Women’s Division Two to start the year. Is one of the most competitive leagues around with just 4 points separating the top six sides after this weekends results. Leaders Flitwick Ladies were held to a goalless draw away to Royston Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday that kept the gap between the side to 4 points, Royston Town however have 3 games in hand on the leaders.

So to do Watton Ladies after they beat 2nd placed Panshanger Ladies on Sunday to climb from 6th up to 4th in the Division Two table. A goal for Samantha Elgar, Francesca Smithers netting a brace matched by a hat-trick for Chloe Jones saw Watton Ladies start 2017 with 3 points. Chemise Huitson scoring a consolation goal for Panshanger Ladies in the 2nd half.

Goals galore in the other game in Beds & Herts Division Two at the weekend with 3rd placed Garston Ladies FC 96 travelling up to Hitchin Belles. Garston had just the 10 players available but that didn’t stop them from finding the back of the net, Lauren Berryman scoring a hat-trick. Dion Lewis also scoring. Hitchin Belles had their shooting boots on to however with both Shannon Page and Charis Wakefield both scoring 2 goals each to see the match end all square at 4-4 the points shared Hitchin Belles on 13 points in 6th now along with Royston Town and Watton having games in hand can’t be dismissed from the title challenge. A point above the trio, Garston Ladies FC 96 also have a couple of games in hand on leaders Flitwick.

Beds & Herts Division Three

It is in Beds & Herts Division Three where I have to report another side lost to the league, probably not a surprise either as Hertford Town Ladies Reserves have disappeared from the table. Had managed just a handful of fixtures, newly formed at the start of the season it is always tricky getting a reserves side up and running always set up with the best intentions players available at the beginning of the season then the numbers fall. A shame but then not to be to critical I know Hertford Town Ladies are committed to the game and the 1st team is finding its feet now in the ERWFL.

Three matches also in Division Three this Sunday to start 2017. League leaders Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues new to the league ended 2016 with a 100% winning record 6 wins from 6 started 2017 on the road playing bottom side Hatfield Town Ladies who had played just 3 league games before the New Year. Woburn & Wavendon Lionesses Blues extending their lead at the top of the table to 9 points with a crushing win. Lauren Stewart the pick of the goalscorers with 4 to her name. Amy Gibbins wasn’t far behind with a hat-trick moving her into double figures for the season. A goal each for Casey Chapman, Madison Drewett, Millie Glenn and Carrie Mancini sealing an 11-0 victory.

2nd placed Evergreen Eagles Ladies also finished 2016 in Division Three with a 100% winning record had played just the 4 games however were on the road themselves at the weekend taking on 3rd placed Potters Bar United Ladies new to the league this season, 3 points the gap between the sides a single goal scored by Janiece Allen was enough to see Potters Bar United win to end Evergreen Eagles unbeaten record and move level on points have however played 2 games more.

Ending the Beds & Herts Round-Up with an away win for 4th placed Crawley Green Ladies beginning 2017 with an away trip to Shefford Town & Campton Ladies a place below them in the table. Nina Service giving Crawley Green the lead inside the opening 10 minutes she went on to score her 2nd of the game 2 minutes from the end of the 1st half to move her onto 11 goals for the season so far. 2-0 the advantage at half-time Shefford Ladies did pull a goal back midway through the 2nd half however Crawley Green held onto their lead and get the 3 points.

The Round-Up – Cambridgeshire 08/01/17

The Round-Up

Cambridgeshire – Sunday 8th January

Cambridgeshire Women’s Premiership

A handful of games to start the New Year in Cambridgeshire this weekend, 5 matches played across the 3 Division’s. Two games in the Women’s Premiership with Newmarket Town Ladies level on 15 points with Cambridge United WFC Reserves at the top of the table having the opportunity to pull ahead into top spot with their title rivals not in action. Newmarket Town who have yet to play a league game at home this season were the hosts at last playing Park Ladies 2nd bottom without a win since promotion last season. Abbi Griffin gave Newmarket Town the lead in the 6th minute with Nadine Basson (pictured) making it 2-0 inside the last 10 minutes of the 2nd half. Newmarket Town went on to secure all 3 points with 12 minutes left on the clock in the 2nd half, Lauren Deller scoring the goal to see them go 3 points clear at the top of the Premiership.

The points were shared between ICA Sports Ladies and St Ives Town Ladies as both side fought out a 3-3 draw in Peterborough on Sunday. St Ives Town Ladies captain Sasha Smith taking her goals tally for the season to 8 with a goal. Georgia Stancombe also on target with her 4th goal of the season along with an own goal conceded by ICA Sports Ladies whose 3 goals came courtesy of a hat-trick from Lorna Hart in her 1st start of the season.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North

One game in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship North and it was a great start to 2017 for new side Boston United Ladies as they secured their 1st 3 points of the season following on from a good league cup group win to end 2016. Were at home to Hungate Rovers Ladies on Sunday. A hat-trick from Demi Barai along with a goal each for Victoria Bradford and Ella Marie Mcororey seeing them get the 3 points with a 5-2 victory.

Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South

In the time it took to write one Round-Up and begin another more bad news lands with the new another side has disappeared from a league that makes it more than a leagues worth of women’s football sides in the East alone gone in 6 months is a real concern not just in the women’s game by in the grassroots game in general. St Ives Rangers Ladies are now no longer listed in the Cambridgeshire Women’s Championship South. Know it was a big step up from the U16s Leagues for the side but they gave it a shot beginning the season in need of players, wish everyone well a the club and hope it’s just a temporary absence and the club returns in the future.

Noticed it of course as the loss of St Ives Rangers Ladies alters the layout of the league table to the one I put up just 24 hours ago with points won against St Ives Rangers scrubbed off. It affects the game between 2nd placed Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves on Sunday away to 3rd placed Milton Ladies the most. Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves had gone above Milton at the end of 2016 a win would see them pull further clear however Milton were unbeaten in the league 2 points behind with games in hand. A goal from Amy Butterfill along with a brace from goal scoring machine Kirsty Lemmon-Sparkes saw Milton Ladies win the match 3-0 however having lost 3 points they remain in 3rd 2 points behind Newmarket Town Ladies Reserves.

Milton Ladies in 3rd are 6 points behind Championship South leaders Cambridge City Ladies Development but do have 2 games in hand. Cambridge City started the year with a home match against Riverside Rovers Reserves who enjoyed a strong end to 2016. Cambridge City were to strong on the day, Bella Simmons scoring 4 goals in the game with Carla Penny also netting a hat-trick, Erin Fox also scoring in an 8-2 win, moving onto 19 points Cambridge City like Milton are also unbeaten so far this season.

The Round-Up – Norfolk 08/01/17

The Round-Up

Norfolk – Sunday 8th January

Norfolk Women’s Division One

A full fixture list in Norfolk Women’s Division One to start the year with all 8 sides in action on Sunday. Table toppers Thorpe United Ladies had ended 2016 with a 100% record in the league winning 8 from 8. Started the year with an away trip to play 2nd placed North Walsham Angels Ladies who have had a good 1st half of the season since earning promotion in the summer. Looking to close a 6 point gap on the leaders, Thorpe United were having none of it, North Walsham scoring twice were beaten 5-2 to see Thorpe United extend their lead at the top of the table.

Kings Lynn Town Ladies have had a great 1st half of the season too in Norfolk Women’s Division One after losing their opening game of the season didn’t drop another league point in 2016, 6 straight wins putting them up to 3rd level on points with North Walsham Angels Ladies. Were at home to Brandon Town Ladies at the start of the year, the visitors taking the lead in the 1st half before Kings Lynn pulled it back to 1-1 at the break. Brandon Town getting the lead in the 2nd half only for Kings Lynn to draw level again captain Shelley Woods with both the goals for Kings Lynn the points shared 2-2 the final score enough to see Kings Lynn move into 2nd place in the table.

A difficult start to life in Norfolk Women’s Division One for Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies promoted as Division Two Champions last season have struggled for players since, hampered by injuries too, are looking for additional players to bolster their squad. 6 games without a point to end 2016 bottom of the table started with a home match in 2017 against Aylsham FC Ladies. The visitors leaving with all 3 points edging the result 3-2 to climb a place into 4th in the league table.

A big win away from home for Bungay Town Ladies to start 2017 as they travelled to Clipbush Park to play Fakenham Town Ladies, wracking up a double figure score line winning the game 11-0. Strikers, Lacey Andrews and Hannah Waters both scoring 4 goals each with Lauren Matthews netting a brace along with a goal for Lauren Purling.

Norfolk Women’s Division Two

2016 was a bad year for writing about clubs folding and unfortunately 2017 sees no change 2 more gone over the festive period. The 1st one is in Norfolk, Harleston Town Ladies gone from Division Two after achieving promotion just last season. Have been struggling for a while for numbers and have been conscious of this coming for a while to be honest. A shame but not all doom and gloom the club is to continue in the 7 a-side format of the game for now and hopefully they will return in the future.

That sees the Division Two table adjusted, leaders Gorleston FC Ladies losing 3 points are still a massive 15 point lead however with a 100% winning start to the season 8 from 8 now. There was just the one game played in Division Two on Sunday with 2nd placed Long Stratton Ladies match at home to Briston Wanderers Ladies postponed it gave an opportunity for 3rd placed Sprowston Ladies to climb above them if they got the 3 points at home to Bohemians Ladies. The sides contesting a goalless 1st half a single goal in the 2nd half was enough to secure all 3 points with the 1-0 win going to Sprowston Ladies.

Norfolk Women’s Division Three

The top 2 in Norfolk Women’s Division Three were due to meet this Sunday, with leaders East Coast Ladies due t travel to Dereham to play, 2nd placed Tavern Ladies both sides level on 15 points the game was postponed however giving a chance for 3rd placed Wymondham Town Ladies Reserves on 13 points going into the New Year to go top with 3 points if they beat Freethorpe Ladies away from home. Goals from Sally Hammerton, Emily Anderson and Natalie Wood seeing Wymondham Town win the game 3-0 to take over top spot in Division Three.

In the other game played in Division Three on Sunday it was a good start to the New Year for Toftwood United Ladies as they scored 7 goals without reply at home to bottom side Cromer Town Ladies.

The Round-Up – Suffolk 08/01/17

The Round-Up

Suffolk Women’s Division- Sunday 8th January

Three matches in the Suffolk Women’s Division to start 2017 with league leaders, Ipswich Town Ladies new Development side beginning the year as they ended the last extending their 100% record to 7 games with a big away win against 2nd bottom side Leiston St Margarets Ladies. Sian Cottrell top scoring in the game on Sunday grabbing 4 goals. Grace Bowman also netting a hat-trick in the game. Emily Steward scored twice with a goal a piece for Jennifer Gray, Sophie Leming and Elin Davies in a 12-0 win.

A big result at home for East Bergholt United Ladies on Sunday, starting the year by hosting 2nd placed, Walsham Le Willows Ladies. Beginning the day in 4th spot 3 points behind their opponents East Bergholt United move above 3rd placed Brantham Athletic Ladies who weren’t in action to join Walsham Le Willows on 15 points courtesy of a 4-0 win. 4 different goal scorers for East Bergholt United in the match with Jessica Clarke, Georgina Longden, Jessica Oxlade and Jodie Sharp all finding the back of the net.

In the other match being played in the Suffolk Women’s Division this Sunday, Copleston Ladies where at home playing Bacton United Ladies. The two sides sharing the points with a 1-1 draw. Lois Balfour scoring for Bacton United Ladies. Elysia Young with a free-kick scoring for Copleston Ladies.

The Round-Up – ERWFL 08/01/17

The Round-Up

ERWFL – Sunday 8th January

Some sad news to begin the year with that on New Years Day Haringey Borough Women’s manager, Steve Browne had passed away after losing a long battle with cancer. A player, coach and manager for several non-league clubs took on the managers role at Haringey Borough Women in 2014 bringing young players with him to help turn the women’s team fortunes around leaving them in their highest ever position in the women’s football pyramid top of the ERWFL Premier Division, well placed to go on and contend for the title. I remember meeting him in 2015 covering a game for the SWF Blog, back then he was keen to stress how young his side was but that it was full of potential and would become a force in the game. Results speak for themselves. Many clubs, both women’s and men’s paying their respects at the weekend. Rest in Peace.

ERWFL Premier Division

Haringey Borough Women with 4 games in hand on 2nd placed Bedford Ladies both on 27 points at the top of the table were due to play on Sunday the 1st v 2nd clash at Kempston Rovers FC was unfortunately called off due to a waterlogged pitch to be played at a later date.

That postponement gave an opportunity for 3rd placed AFC Dunstable Ladies to join the leading pair on 27 points at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division if they continued their form in 2016 into the New Year. Were at home on Sunday at Creasey Park taking on Royston Town Ladies. Danielle Carty putting the Bedfordshire based side into the lead on 15 minutes made it a brace on 35 minutes. Amber Pearson scoring for AFC Dunstable in the 2nd half to see them win the game 3-1 and move level on points with the leaders having played 15 games like Bedford in 2nd. Amy Cooper with the goal for Royston Town Ladies.

A late goal for Writtle Ladies saw the Essex side take all 3 points home from Norfolk where they were playing Acle United Ladies. Having found their feet in the ERWFL Premier Division towards the end of 2016, Writtle Ladies ended the year 4th in the table. Acle United Ladies started the season strongly themselves threatening Haringey Borough and Bedford at the start of the season as lack of regular fixtures since has seen them drop down the table but with games in hand can still get themselves into the mix for the title. Both sides had chances to take the lead, it was Writtle who got themselves the opening goal, Amy Simmons scoring on 22 minutes. Acle United scored an equalising goal within 10 minutes of going behind, club captain Rebecca Burton returning to the side after 2 months out with injury making it 1-1. That the score at half-time, the sides looked to be sharing the points until 2 minutes from time Writtle played Sophie Vale through on goal and she scored what was to be the winner.

5th placed AFC Sudbury Ladies were at home on Sunday the Suffolk side hosting bottom Histon Ladies from Cambridgeshire. The game was officiated by Emily Heaslip who also plays for Millwall Lionesses in FAWSL 2. Histon took the lead in the game Jordanne Sillitoe scoring in the opening 15 minutes. AFC Sudbury came back into the game with a strong spell in the last 15 minutes of the 1st half scoring 3 goals to hold the lead at the midway point in the game, went on to score another goal in the 2nd half to win the match 4-1 with a brace for both Mia Etheridge and Stacey Teager (pictured).

With the top 3 all tied on 27 points it is also a 3 way tie on points between, Writtle Ladies in 4th, AFC Sudbury Ladies in 5th and Brentwood Town Ladies in 6th all on 21 points as the Essex side also won at home on Sunday to start 2017 with 3 points were hosting fellow Essex side Colchester Town Ladies. Brentwood Town going into a 3-0 lead at half-time before going on to win the game 5-2 in the 2nd half. Leah Cowan netting a brace for Brentwood with Angela Arnold, Marie Barker and Georgia Holdaway all getting their name on the scoresheet. Colchester Town scoring twice in the 2nd half with Nancy Butler and club captain Georgia Box both on target.

ERWFL Division One

Plenty of good games to look-out for in 2017 in the ERWFL Division One several sides in contention for the league title. Games in hand for 2nd placed Cambridge City Ladies gives them the edge over their rivals. Leading the way for much of the 1st half of the season a run in the FA Women’s Cup saw other sides close the gap at the top with Offley and Stopsley WFC topping the table at the end of 2016.

The Bedfordshire side began 2017 with a league match away to Stevenage Ladies Reserves. Their 1st team starting the year with a 1-0 home win the Reserves side followed suit a single goal enough to give Stevenage Ladies Reserves all 3 points in the match, Hannah Marshall with the winning goal.

Cambridge City Ladies hadn’t played a league match since the end of November 2016 lay 3 points behind league leaders Offley & Stopsley WFC in 3rd place, were at home on Sunday starting 2017 with a home match against Essex side Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies. Moved level on points with the league leaders courtesy of a 4-0 victory, 4 different goalscorers too with Bronte Rapley, Sarah Mosley, Philippa Witherspoon and Lauren Tomlinson all getting themselves on the scoresheet.

A loss for table toppers, Offley & Stopsley WFC also gave an opportunity for Wymondham Town Ladies laying 2nd in the ERWFL Division One table going into Sunday’s matches to go to the top of the table, a good start to the season playing at a higher level were at home to 5th placed Essex side Silver End United Ladies at the weekend. It was the visitors who took the lead midway through the 1st half. Wymondham Town getting back on level terms not long after, Amber Cantwell putting the ball into the top corner of the net from the penalty spot after Gemma Sanders was brought down in the area. All square at the break Silver End United took all 3 points with a strong 2nd half performance scoring 3 times to win the match 4-1, captain Rebecca Hollocks netting a hat-trick with Lynsey Bowman also scoring a goal.

Plenty of goals elsewhere in ERWFL Division One at the weekend. Hertford Town Ladies had found some form towards the end of 2016 to pull away from the bottom of the table were at home to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies on Sunday a place above who were struggling with results towards the end of the year, a lack of games had games in had on most in the league, started 2017 with a win coming out on top edging a 7 goal thriller. Hertford Town Ladies scoring 3 goals in the game with their captain Kerry Oldham netting a brace along with a goal for Becky Shephard, not enough to get anything from the match however as Ipswich Wanderers Ladies scored 4 goals to win the match, a brace from Kirstie Turner, with jade Horne and captain, Tarnya McKew also finding the back of the net the 3 points moving them up a place into 8th in the table.

Fair to say the 1st half of the season has been a tough one for Hoddesdon Town Owls Ladies without a single point in 2016 as a new look side tries to bed itself into ERWFL Division One, 14 matches played with nothing on the board, signs there that the side was improving that elusive 1st point would come, 2017 beginning on a more positive note. An away trip to mid-table Hutton Ladies to start the year. Charlotte Grogan putting Hoddesdon into the lead midway through the 1st half, Hutton pulled the scores level, Hayley Critchell starting 2017 as she finished 2016 with a goal. 1-1 at half-time Hannah Kelly scored to put Hoddesdon into the lead again 2nd half. Again Hutton came back to level Kaitlin Sugg making it 2-2 the visitors unlucky not to take all 3 points hitting the woodwork twice, Hoddesdon Town holding on for their 1st point.

The Round-Up – FAWPL 08/01/17

The Round-Up

FAWPL – Sunday 8th January

FAWPL Southern Division

With it being a FA Women’s Cup weekend there were a limited number of matches across the FAWPL on Sunday with just the 4 played across the Southern and South East Division One leagues.

Just the one league game in the FAWPL Southern Division with Crystal Palace Ladies looking to build on a fantastic 2016 earning promotion unbeaten from FAWPL South East Division One to end the year comfortably in the top half of the Southern Division table. Were looking to further consolidate their top half place in 5th spot at home to West Ham United Ladies. Crystal Palace got off to a great start taking an early lead Gemma Bryan on hand to put the ball into the back of the net inside 2 minutes. Rochelle Shakes doubled the home sides lead midway through the 1st half with Ciara Sherwood scoring a screamer closing in on the half hour mark. 3-0 the lead at half-time.

Crystal Palace continued to press for more goals in the 2nd half, Bryan with her 2nd of the game with 55 minutes played. West Ham United pulled a goal back in the 65th minute through Chloe Burr. Bryan ended 2016 by scoring a hat-trick, started 2017 in similar fashion scoring her 3rd of the match with 20 minutes left on the clock, Shakes adding her 2nd goal of the game to see Crystal Palace win the game 6-1 to take all 3 points. The defeat sending West Ham United to the bottom of the Southern Division table on goal difference from Queens Park Rangers Ladies

FAWPL South East Division One

3 matches in FAWPL South East Division One on Sunday. Actonians Ladies have enjoyed a good 1st half to the season ending 2016 in 4th place in the league, travelled up to Suffolk at the weekend to play Ipswich Town Ladies who have had a frustrating season so far in 8th place in the table. The sides contesting a goalless 1st half, a single goal was to win all 3 points in the 2nd half and the goal went to the visitors with Melissa Jung (pictured) heading the ball into the back of the net from a free-kick to see Actonians Ladies close the gap on the top 3 in the table to just a point.

Luton Town Ladies were at home to Denham United Ladies on Sunday, had a few 1st team regulars unavailable manager Nikki Baker naming 5 teenagers in her starting line-up. Luton Town not afraid to throw their youngsters into the action they have delivered so far this season when called upon. Gemma Bryon putting Luton 1-0 inside the opening 10 minutes. Lucy Webster netted her 1st goal for the club to put Luton Town 2-0 just after the half-hour mark. 2-0 the advantage at half-time, Luton Town went on to score a 3rd in the 2nd half with Jodie Bellinger on target with the goal. The home side weren’t to have it all their own way however as Denham United pulled it back to 3-1 then scoring again in in the last 10 minutes set up a nervous finish to the match Aimee Dunn and Alissa Down with the goals. Luton Town held on to win 3-2 however the 3 points taking them back above Gillingham FC Ladies into 5th place in the South East Division One table.

A meeting of 2 of the bottom 3 in the final FAWPL South East Division One with Norwich City Ladies travelling down to Hertfordshire to play the side immediately below them in the table Stevenage Ladies the newly promoted side still looking for their 1st win at this level since winning the ERWFL Premier Division title last season. Both sides in need of the points they were locked at 0-0 at half-time. One goal was enough in the end to see the 3 points won and it was Stevenage Ladies who were celebrating at the final whistle after Kristina O’Connell goal in the 65th minute saw the club get that 1st ever FAWPL league win, the points taking them above Norwich City into 10th.