Tag Archives: Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Watford Ladies

Thursday 22nd February

 Football action from FAWSL 2 this Thursday evening a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Watford Ladies.

 A solid start to life for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies in FAWSL 2 since winning FAWPL Playoff as Southern Division Champions in May 2017. A good run at the start of the season seeing them sitting 6th in the table on 10 points, a difficult spell of 7 straight defeats in league and cup coming to an end last Sunday at home to Oxford United Women over turning a 1 goal deficit to win the game 2-1. Will look to build on that result in tonight local derby match at home to Watford Ladies. A transitional period for the FAWSL as it is revamped ahead of the new season with new licences being issued Tottenham have applied to retain their FAWSL 2 position for next season.  

 Watford Ladies are founder members of FAWSL 2 have struggled in recent seasons, signs were there that thing’s had started to turn the corner under coach Keith Boanas. Were undone somewhat with the announcement the club wouldn’t be applying for an FAWSL licence next season. This has led to Boanas leaving his position along with a some players. Armand Kavaja taking over as first team manager. Have added a few new faces recently, former Swindon Town Ladies captain, Samantha Hallsworth, midfielder Katherine Huggins from C&K Basildon Ladies and most recently, Georgie O’Halloran form FAWPL South East Division One leaders AFC Wimbledon Ladies. League results haven’t gone their way Watford adrift at the bottom of the FAWSL 2 table have just the one point on the board after 7 games. 

  Cheshunt FC the venue tonight under the lights always busy whenever you pull into the carpark training pitches beyond the main pitch. A bar along with hot food and drinks available. A wide pitch a dry evening the sun down getting very chilly as the sides emerged from the changing rooms ready for kick-off.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Chloe Morgan, Ashleigh Neville, Ryah Vyse, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Josie Green, Coral-Jade Haines, Wendy Martin, Sarah Wiltshire, Bianca Baptiste & Lucia Leon. Subs – Chloe Crook, Hannah Mackenzie, Maya Vio, Katie O’Leary & Lauren Pickett.

  Watford Ladies starting XI – Frances Kitching, Charlotte Kerr, Antonia Gregoriou, Rebecca McShane, Samantha Hallsworth, Anneka Nuttall (C), Emily Hill, Katherine Huggins, Leanne Bell, Adekite Fatuga-Dada & Helen Ward. Subs – Weronika Baronowska, Linda Afuakwah, Andie Dickens, Mollie Dench & Georgia 0’Halloran.

It’s Watford to get the game underway kicking off 1st half wearing yellow shirts with red shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. The ball is played forwards Tottenham win it at the back out to the left down the line into Wendy Martin she picks put Sarah Wilshire bursting forwards her diagonal all aimed for Bianca Baptiste arriving in the box coming in from the right, Charlotte Kerr coming with her from left back does well to get her head on the high ball does enough to stop it falling cleanly to Baptiste the ball dropping to the striker doesn’t get a solid connection as she goes to strike the ball 1st time the ball cleared out to the right side as Tottenham pile players forwards Josie Green looking to fire the ball back into the area is blocked and cleared by the Watford defence.

   A fast and bright start to the match from Tottenham as they come forwards, winning a throw on the right Lucia Leon combines with Baptiste the ball worked well between them Leon played into the area on the byline looks to fire a cross in towards goal, the ball intercepted by Samantha Hallsworth put behind for the 1st corner of the match. A good ball played into the middle of the six yard box from the right Watford win the header the ball knocked out to the far post and volleyed clear. The visitors looking to counter attack lose possession Tottenham with a quick turn around the ball finding Baptiste breaking clear on the right charging into the area with the ball shots from the angle the rising ball striking the near post before being deflected out of play.

     Hallsworth with a timely interception cuts out an attempted through ball in the middle of the park looking to release Leon. The ball played forwards Watford unable to make it stick it comes back again the long ball out to Baptiste moving clear on the right once more plays a diagonal ball high into the box too much on it for Wiltshire arriving at the far post to keep in play. Katherine Huggins looks to get an attacking move going for Watford on the left side winning the ball plays it inside to Helen Ward before going on looking for the return pass in behind, Ward plays it forwards Ashleigh Neville going with Huggins intercepting the pass.

   Frances Kitching in the Watford goal makes a great save off Baptiste as the attacker strikes the all 1st time as it comes to her inside the area. Tottenham are looking strong Neville from right back, Ryah Vyse on the left both getting forwards to support the attack Baptiste and Wiltshire ensuring the play stays spread on either flank too. A couple of Tottenham attacks are halted by the offside flag. Wiltshire though is onside on the left as the ball comes into her run taking it on into the box Kitching comes sliding out to win the ball clattering into Wiltshire as she follows through. 

   A burst of pace from Adekite Fatuga-Dada on the right for Tottenham leaves her marker in her wake before swinging in a cross into the area coming near post Neville tracking across is there to get her head on the ball to clear. Fatuga-Dada with another attempt to put the ball into the box moments later sees her effort caught by goalkeeper Chloe Morgan. A brief respite for Watford as Tottenham continue to press forwards winning the ball in the middle Coral-Jade Haines breaking up play well supported by Green the Wiltshire and Baptiste ready to break on either wing. Watford get a sniff up the other en as Ward latches onto a sloppy ball at the back 20 yards out lines up a shot her attempt driven straight at Morgan the keeper saving comfortably.

GOAL! 19 minutes played and Tottenham take the lead a great ball from Haines sees Wiltshire beating the offside trap on the left side running clear with the ball into the box hits the shot hard the ball flying over Kitching into the back of the net 1-0.

   The ball lost from the restart Tottenham push players forwards an attempted through ball aimed for Wiltshire in the left intercepted by Watford’s Antonia Gregoriou gets the ball back to Kitching to kick up field. An ambitious attempt from Baptiste from all of 35 yards out her strike isn’t too far over the bar as it flies over Kitching. Wiltshire with a high ball into the area from the left wing sees Neville who has covered alot of ground already this evening the furthest forwards at the near post inside the six yard box controls the ball on her thigh before striking it on the volley over the goal. 

GOAL! Haines with another fantastic ball finds Neville breaking clear on the right side going on into the box her cross is fired low along the goal face Lucia Leon arriving in the centre putting the ball over the line to score at the 2nd attempt as Watford can’t scramble it clear 2-0 26 minutes on the clock. 

  Tottenham are dominating coming forwards in waves the Watford defence under pressure the all won’t stick further up the pitch. Baptiste brings the ball on through the centre Leon ahead of her top of the area holds up well shifting the ball out to her right finding room to squeeze a shot away the ball drifting wide of the near post.  Baptiste right side with the cross into the area won by Rebecca McShane in the middle the ball up field Haines winning back possession out to Baptiste right down the line a cross from deep claimed by Kitching near post Watford attempt a counter in comes to nothing the ball quickly back up field into Baptiste central she jinks left then right top of the box before pulling her shot wide of the target. 

   Renee Hector and captain Jenna Schillaci comfortable at the back winning any Watford high balls played forwards. Ward alert to any poor ball at the back however from Tottenham latches onto a pass 20 yards out lines up a shot Haines is quick to race back in from midfield to tackle and deny the chance. Ward moves the ball out to the right outside the box looking for space for a shot getting it away the ball is blocked by Vyse. 

 Wiltshire in a similar position to where she scored strikes the ball goalwards comes down into the six yard box off the crossbar. Appears to then be put out of play by a Watford defender however the referee despite Tottenham protests signals a goal-kick. 

GOAL! Late into the 1st half and Tottenham extend their lead the ball won from a goal kick inside their half taken on to the byline right side and a dangerous cross is fired in along the goal face a yard in from of goal Leon can’t quite reach it in the centre Wiltshire arriving far post can as she meet the ball sending it home for a 3-0 lead right on the stroke of half-time.

 Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-0 Watford Ladies

   A dominant 1st half from Tottenham a 3-0 lead could well have been more have had Watford on the ropes for much of the half giving the visitors very little of the ball showing great movement when coming forwards. Is only a matter of whether or not they will continue to be so ruthless in the 2nd half or Watford came somehow find a way back into the game. 

It’s Tottenham to get the 2nd half started a change for Watford, Kerr off the pitch Linda Afuakwah joining the attack. The home side winning an early corner from the left Kitching with the punch to send the near post delivery over for a corner on the right this one landing in the box bouncing Neville strikes the ball on the volley sending it high over the goal. Watford get the ball forwards Emily Hill with the pass to release Fatuga-Dada on the right Tottenham have the threat covered. 

Martin gets onto the end of a loose Watford pass inside the visitors half, McShane stepping out well from the back for to get the tackle in and win the ball, played up through the middle into captain Anneka Nuttall she is brought down in a dangerous position 30 yards from goal a free-kick awarded she picks herself up to take it. Goes for the shot the ball fired over the bar. A sloppy ball at the back for Tottenham  falls to Fatuga-Dada on the right comes inside evading a challenge before shooting her effort flying straight into Morgan who takes cleanly in side her six yard box. Tottenham break forwards Baptiste moving to the left holds her run perfectly to stay onside squares it to Wiltshire in the middle looks to move the ball to the right Watford close her down win the ball.

 GOAL! A bright start to the 2nd half from Tottenham sees them extend their lead in the 53rd minute Wiltshire with a well taken goal to seal her hat-trick. The Tottenham attack clustered central for a change as the ball is fired into them for distance Leon taking it on into the box looks to have overrun the ball as Kitching goes to ground Wiltshire to her left gets onto the end of the ball opening up her body to curl the ball over the keeper to score 4-0. 

Kitching is the busier of the two goalkeepers by far alert she claims the ball at the near post as Baptiste gets a cross in from the byline on the right. Leon picks out Wiltshire getting free on the left her ball into the area whipping over the Watford goal. Tottenham steal in to win possession from a poor Watford ball at the back Leon with the shot her low ball saved by Kitching going to ground. Nuttall with the ball for Watford drives on through the middle space to shot Schillaci is in the way to block the powerful strike.

Baptiste is getting frustrated as she sees chance after chance go begging the ball played into her on the right her low diagonal ball towards goal finds it’s way through the Watford defence runs narrowly wide of the far post. A give and go between Leon and Baptiste at the top of the box right side Leon going on making a near post run pull the trigger as the ball is returned to her Kitching making a brilliant save with her legs to keep the ball out. Tottenham make their 1st change of the night bringing on Katie O’Leary for Martin.

 Good defending from Hill at the near post from a Tottenham corner on the right for Watford getting a firm head on the ball. Hallsworth with a good tackle to stop Leon as she attempts to run through into the area with the ball. Kitching called into action making a great save from a Leon header as Baptiste screws a cross in from the byline on the left. The home side continuing to dominate.  A corner for Tottenham on the right Kitching coming for the ball near post gets a glove on the ball falls to Wilshire at the top of the area looks to move it to the right appears to be upended appeals for a penalty but the referee waves play on.

    Watford make a 2nd change Fatuga-Dada coming off Georgie O’Halloran coming on. Tottenham press the ball played into O’Leary her pass on for Leon not closed down shoots from 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. Baptiste with a strong run on the ball coming into the area from the right stays on her feet as she rides a sliding tackle gets a shot in from close range Kitching saving instinctively with her legs at the near post. A 2nd change for Tottenham Hannah Mackenzie comes on to go into the back-line replacing Schillaci. 

 Little opportunity for Watford up the other end Hill attempts a shot from all of 35 yards out the ball well over. The visitors working hard in defence as Tottenham keep coming on wanting more goals. Baptiste shes another long range shot whistle narrowly over the crossbar. The final change for Tottenham sees Leon brought off up front to be replaced by Lauren Pickett. Hallsworth in the way to block a strike from Haines the ball coming straight back to the Tottenham midfielder she has her head in her hands as she sees Kitching tip the ball over the bar.

    The corner to Tottenham on the right, Watford make their final change before it is taken, Mollie Dench coming on for Gregoriou. The corner played into the six yard box is scrambled away to the top of the box Mackenzie running onto the ball strikes it hard for Tottenham the shot charged down. An injury to Bell as she gets the ball into the box up the other end taking a knock is helped of the pitch to receive treatment all their subs made Watford finish the last 5 minutes of the game with 10 players.

 GOAL! Tottenham capitalise getting up the other end to score the ball through the middle picking out Baptiste who has timed her run perfectly her touch putting her clear on into the area central opens up her body to stab the ball wide of Kitching to get the goal her play has deserved at last 5-0.

   GOAL! One goal for Baptiste quickly becomes two in the latter stages of the game play stretched Tottenham winning the ball break quickly Baptiste in a central position runs clear towards the area after the ball almost a carbon copy of her 1st goal she has time to open her body once more and steer the ball wide of Kitching as she goes to ground 6-0. 

   Morgan ensures their no late drama up the other end as she confidently claims a cross flung into the box from the right by Ward. Kitching up the other end coming out to close Wiltshire down as the attacker gets clear into the box from the left for Tottenham the final whistle blows Tottenham winning for the 2nd successive match move up to 5th in the FAWSL 2 table. 

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 6-0 Watford Ladies

   A confident and dominant display from Tottenham from start to finish relentless coming forwards and not prepared to give anything away at the other end Haines breaking up play well in the middle as the attackers in front posed a constant threat. One to forget for Watford all they can do as a team is move onto the next one battled hard at the back Kitching with some fine saves but in the end they were well beaten.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  A good all round performance form Tottenham this evening a few contenders for the Women’s Football East – Player of the Match have chosen Sarah Wiltshire who showed great movement throughout the match playing wide left getting her hat-trick taking all 3 goals well.

   Thanks to Tottenham for their assistance tonight haven’t done a midweek game for a while good to get one in.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

Sunday 7th January

  Beginning 2018 with a game from FAWSL 2 a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch the leagues newest members Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

 Two ambitious clubs joining the FAWSL as it enters a new and challenging era adjusting to a return to the winter calendar too. A reshaping of the leagues seeing clubs bidding for either a place in FAWSL 1 or FAWSL 2 having to meet stringent criteria. Tottenham Hotspur Ladies looking to retain their FAWSL 2 status have bid for place in that league whilst Brighton & Hove Albion WFC receiving significant backing from the club have bid for a place in the new FAWSL 1 where all clubs will have to be fully professional.

Both following the same path to the FAWSL, both prominent clubs within Women’s Football East the FAWPL Southern Division being the top league that is covered. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were crowned Champion’s 2 season’s ago with Tottenham Hotspur Ladies winning the title the season after both going on to win the subsequent FAWPL Playoff game between their Northern Division counterparts to achieve promotion.

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies have had a solid start to life in FAWSL 2 the move from summer to winter not affecting them at all. Have strengthened their squad by bringing in defender Ashleigh Neville from Coventry United Ladies and experienced WSL attacker Sarah Wiltshire from Yeovil Town Ladies and young prospect Lauren Pickett. A narrow opening game defeat away to Durham Women FC, Tottenham responded well winning their next 2 league games a along with their 2 opening Continental Tyres Cup group matches unbeaten in 5 before ending the year with 3 straight defeats in league and cup. In 6th place in the table a win today puts them onto 10 points amongst those challenging at the top of the table.

Although Brighton & Hove Albion WFC were promoted the season before Tottenham Hotspur Ladies this is technically their first season of FAWSL 2 football too as they entered the league during it’s transitional period prior to reverting back to the winter a one off Spring Series played during the 1st half of 2017 each side facing their opponents once. Would have benefited Brighton the most giving the club an opportunity to get used to the league and it’s strengths.

   Operating with an interim manger during that period the club has shown it’s ambitions by bringing in former England manager, Hope Powell to coach the 1st team. Several new faces joining the playing squad too bringing FAWSL experience with them, ex-Notts County player Danielle Buet along with Aileen Whelan and Fern Whelan who were with Everton ladies prior to coming down to the South Coast. Ini Umatong  who was previously with Oxford United Women along with Fliss Gibbons and goalkeeper Lucy Gillett. Currently in 4th spot in the FAWSL 2 table one of 3 sides on 10 points looking to challenge leaders Doncaster Rovers Belles for top spot with 3 wins and a draw from their opening 5 league matches.

 The two sides met in November in the group stages of the Continental Tyres Cup, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC winning the game away from home 4-1. The venue for today’s game Cheshunt FC a large pitch offering good width, has fared well despite the recent heavy rain. Quite an open stadium a bitterly cold day at the beginning of January but dry. Hold food and drinks available along with a bar. 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Chloe Morgan, Lucia Leon, Ashleigh Neville, Jenna Schillaci (C), Renee Hector, Sophie McLean, Hannah McKenzie, Sarah Wiltshire, Lauren Pickett, Katie O’Leary & Ronnell Humes. Subs – Toni-Anne Wayne, Maya Vio, Wendy Martin, Coral-Jade Haines, Bianca Baptiste & Ryah Vyse. 

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Lucy Gillett, Beth Roe, Sophie Perry (C), Laura Rafferty, Fern Whelan, Kirsty Barton, Jenna Legg, Kate Natkiel, Bronwen Thomas, Fliss Gibbons & Ini Umotong. Subs – Laura Hartley, Sophia Pharoah, Lucy Somes, Natalie Taylor & Vicky Ashton-Jones.

It’s the away side to kick off the game Tottenham changing ends to have the low sun at their backs in the 1st half. Brighton in their away colours an all yellow kit with bronze across the shirt shoulders. Tottenham in their home colours white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Brighton looking to keep the ball moving along the ground work the ball forwards out to Fliss Gibbons on the left she is tackled by full back Lucia Leon the ball out for a throw in. 

Laura Rafferty on the ball for Brighton

Getting the ball forwards the long pass finds Ronnell Humes in space drifting right for Tottenham, Fern Whelan coming to put in the tackle prevents the striker getting a shot away as she enters the box. Brighton launch a quick counter attack the ball moved forwards quickly the diagonal ball aimed for Bronwen Thomas running down the right is tackled in the corner by Ashleigh Neville to concede the 1st corner of the game.

A quiet opening to the game both sides looking to get on the ball make progress up the pitch Brighton pressing the ball inside the Tottenham half well not letting the home side retain any meaningful possession. Leon gains ground on the right supporting Lauren Pickett, Whelan is across again to stifle the threat, when Tottenham eventually get a cross into the area it is caught by Lucy Gillett at her near post. 

Brighton come forwards Jenna Legg finding a bit of room on the ball 30 yards out central attempts the slide the ball forwards for Ini Umotong making a run towards the top of the area, Renee Hector closes her down for Tottenham gets her foot to the ball first directing it back to goalkeeper Chloe Morgan to clear. Sarah Wiltshire gets forwards for Tottenham sees her cross swung in from the right claimed by Gillett.

Tottenham’s Sophie McLean looks to find a way through

GOAL! Brighton are soon down the other end of the pitch a free-kick is won just outside the box to the left of the D, captain Sophie Perry comes forwards to take it as referee Stacey Pearson moves the Tottenham was back. A quality free-kick from the Republic of Ireland international the ball whipped past the Tottenham wall with plenty of pace just inside the post evading the diving Morgan to give Brighton an 11th minute lead 0-1.

Brighton captain, Sophie Perry opens the scoring from a free-kick.

Tottenham look to respond right away Wiltshire with the through ball for Humes is closed down by Laura Rafferty, Gillett coming out of her goal to prevent the ball spinning away for the corner. Brighton work the ball forwards through the centre enjoying good possession before the pass is played out to Thomas on the right cutting inside with the ball attempts to curl the shot towards goal, angled in is straight at Morgan who saves comfortably.

The visitors are working well as a unit to break up any Tottenham forward play then moving it forwards with purpose when in possession using the full width of the pitch, full back Beth Roe putting in the tackle as Humes is played in through the centre, Barton in the middle plays the ball forwards with Umotong making a good run from left to right across the top of the Tottenham area aims her cross back across the box for Gibbons far side who lashes the ball into the back of the net even as she receives the ball the flag is up for offside.

A free-kick to Brighton on halfway the ball lifted up in towards the top of the box is headed clear dropping for Barton 30 yards out controls well on her chest before volleying a shot in towards goal on target the ball is caught low by Morgan right behind the shot. Neville brings the ball on up the left for Tottenham plays a cross into the area cleared for a throw. A one two between Katie O’Leary and Humes the latter seeing her cross cut out as Whelan clears for Brighton. 

Brighton’s, Beth Roe

 A great tackle by Tottenham’s Hannah McKenzie to deny Brighton’s Umotong as Legg plays the ball into her path breaking forwards. Up the other end Whelan is reading the game well for Brighton winning the ball as the home side try to find a way in behind. Kate Natkiel coming forwards the ball played on to Legg out to Thomas right side 25 yards out takes on the shot curling in again top corner, Morgan has time to get across and take the ball into her gloves. 

Brighton’s Kate Natkiel evades Hannah McKenzie’s tackle

Tottenham come forwards Sophie McLean on for Wiltshire the pass out to Pickett on the right plays the cross into the box, Gillett claiming it well at her near post with Humes and Wiltshire both coming in. Another free-kick in a dangerous position for Brighton top right corner outside the area this time Perry with the step over as Gibbons curls the ball in towards the far post Tottenham win the header the ball cleared, Brighton quickly regain possession the ball played into the box Whelan still up from the back directs her header wide of goal.

Ronnell Humes in possession of the ball for Tottenham

The visitors are finishing the 1st half the stronger winning the ball in the middle Barton with a good challenge, Natkiel comes forwards lets fly form 25 yards out her shot deflected wide to the right Thomas after the loose ball sends her shot wide across the face of goal. Leon is fouled late in the 1st half a free-kick to Tottenham 10 yards inside the Brighton half players come forwards from the back as captain Jenna Schillaci plays a great ball into the area bouncing inside the six yard box their are appeals for a penalty as Hector goes down appearing to get caught by a high boot. Play stopped so she can receive treatment the protests are waved away.

  Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

   Sophie Perry’s 11th minute set-piece goal the difference between the two sides at half-time Brighton leading 1-0 have had the better chances in the 1st half. Have enjoyed more of the ball pressing Tottenham inside their own half whilst defending as a unit have prevented their opponents getting anything meaningful going forwards in attack. Just the 1 goal in it however plenty of time for Tottenham a turn it around with the 2nd half to come.

It’s gotten decidedly colder with a strong breeze blowing across the stadium has had some effect on the ball too during the match towards the end of the 1st half. Tottenham to kick-off the 2nd half have made a change at the break Maya Vio on for McKenzie in midfield. An early attack for the home side a tidy spin as the ball comes into her for Wiltshire 30 yards out sends the pass on looking for Humes making the break into the box, Gillett spotting the danger is out to the top of her area quickly to slide in and take the ball at the strikers feet. 

Tottenham’s Maya Vio & Brighton’s Jenna Legg battle for the ball

Brighton counter attack the ball moved forwards quickly with Gibbons finding space on the left take on the shot from distance cutting across the ball sending it sailing over the crossbar. Umotong a powerful runner on the ball hard to shake off wriggles clear as she makes a run towards the area, Hector across on the cover cuts out her strike. Up the other end Humes evades Perry’s tackle right corner plays a cross into the area Whelan heading clear at the far post for Brighton. 

Tottenham’s Renee Hector

Neville getting forwards for Tottenham wins a corner left side the ball played in is cleared by Rafferty at the near post. A great run by Leon coming into the Brighton half from the right for Tottenham coming inside closing in on the box opens up for a shooting opportunity instead the full back opts to lay the ball on for O’Leary inside the area to her right, Gillett already on the move dives in to claim the ball at the strikers feet.

 A 2nd change fro Tottenham closing in on the hour mark with Bianca Baptiste coming off the bench to replace Humes up top. An immediate impact by the substitute too as Tottenham come forwards she provides a great run across the top of the Brighton area as Wiltshire picks her put with a superb pass right of the D sends a shot it towards goal the ball inches over the crossbar.

Bianca Baptiste

   Leon fouled wide right players up from the back into the box as Schillaci plays the ball into the area, caught in the strong breeze, Gillett is forced into the save pushing the ball behind for the corner kick. The ball in from the left is scrambled away by Brighton. The visitors make their 1st change of the match Vicky Ashton-Jones celebrating her birthday today coming on for Rafferty at the back. Tottenham doing better now getting more players forwards Leon down the right, Ashton-Jones slides in to tackle conceding the corner. Gillett calls for the ball catching the delivery at her near post.

A corner won for Brighton with 20 minutes left to play before it is taken Tottenham make their 3rd change bringing on Wendy Martin for O’Leary in attack. Neville wins the ball from the corner for Tottenham heading the ball clear of her box. Getting the ball up the other end Pickett gets the better of Whelan flicking the ball over the defender aiming to get in behind into the area Gillett is again out rapidly to stifle the threat. 

   Gibbons with the ball left side as Brighton advance plays the pass inside to Umotong she lays it on for Natkiel who puts the shot in towards goal from 25 yards out Morgan behind it all the way catches cleanly. The game is a little stretched late on as Tottenham look to try and find an equalising goal, Wiltshire’s ball into the box from the right is chested away by Whelan straight into the path of Baptiste coming in from the left her 1st time shot from 20 yards out flies wide of the near post.

Ini Umotong getting past the Tottenham defence

A deflection on Baptiste’s shot a corner given delivered from the left in high towards the near post Martin gets her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, Gillett smothering it makes the save. Martin receiving the ball into her body turns and releases Baptiste on the left she cuts inside her shot landing in the side netting. 

  Brighton attack as the game moves into the final 10 minutes Umotong with the run right side her cross from the byline saved at the near post is deflected towards the top of the box with Natkiel looking to strike it back in towards goal, Vio racing back does enough to prevent the no 10 taking the 1st time shot, keeping her composure Natkiel still has the ball at her feet sends her shot up over the goal. 

Kirsty Barton beats Sarah Wiltshire to the ball

There are a few robust challenges being made late on Martin’s complaints she her shown a yellow card. Brighton make a 2nd change Legg coming off to be replaced by Natalie Taylor. The home side continue to press chances remain limited however Gillett claiming anything played from deep into the box. The game moving into injury time a late free-kick for Tottenham as Wilshire is brought down the ball curled in towards goal claimed comfortably by Gillett. 

A late chance for Brighton as they break the ball played up field into Umotong a powerful run on the ball into the box getting in behind the Tottenham back line as she moves left of goal six yards out looks to stab the ball wide back across goal past Morgan the goalkeeper down smartly makes a fantastic save.

  The final whistle blows and Brighton with a clean sheet win the 3 points thanks to Perry’s first half free-kick. Keeps the status quo at the top with Brighton staying fourth as the side above them all claimed victory too this Sunday.

Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

   One defeat from their opening 6 league games Brighton are looking well placed to challenge Doncaster Rovers Belles for the title along with Durham Women FC and Millwall Lionesses. A good performance today especially 1st half pressing Tottenham well for the ball inside their opponents half making it difficult for the home side to get any momentum going forwards. Solid at the back too with Gillett always alert to any threat behind her defence. Tottenham created chances in the 2nd half bringing on Baptiste and Martin just couldn’t find that one clinical chance to take anything from the game.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   The 1st Women’s Football East – Player of the Match in 2018 goes to Brighton’s Fern Whelan. I thought the central defender had an excellent game at the back covering the ground well to keep Tottenham finding a way in behind and defending well from set-pieces. 

Good to be back at it after a lengthy break over Christmas enjoyed the football on display if not the cold. My thanks to the Tottenham staff for all their assistant today everyone was very helpful.  

Match Report – Durham Women FC v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Sunday 24th September

 Way off the beaten track this Sunday, up in the North East, new beginnings all round a new season of FAWSL football begins and for the 1st time a match report from the FAWSL will feature on Women’s Football East. An exciting looking game to begin with too from FAWSL 2, Durham Women FC one of the favourites to win the league hosting newly promoted Tottenham Hotspur Ladies.

  Merging my two women’s football sites this season, the Supporting Women’s Football Blog no more the match reports remain however just in a new home Women’s Football East, for the past two season’s an FAWSL free zone namely as their was little FAWSL presence in the region. Arsenal Ladies can stake a claim however from FAWSL 1 along with Watford FC Ladies in FAWSL 2. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and now Tottenham Hotspur Ladies winning the FAWPL Southern Division title and then the FAWPL Playoff game earning promotion since the time is right to cover the countries top two leagues as well.

   FAWSL 2 is a highly competitive league and no doubt it will be again this season, new challenges with the FAWSL reverting back to the winter to move in line with the rest of the women’s football pyramid. The league itself is a hard on to call this season. With the make up of the league Durham Women FC have their best chance ever of mounting a title challenge. Doncaster Rovers Belles will be up there. Millwall Lionesses have recruited well and had a really strong Spring Series. London Bees under new manager Luke Swindlehurst have made some useful signings, Aston Villa Ladies if they can find consistency might spring a surprise. Brighton & Hove Albion WFC have had the Spring Series to get used to the league with Hope Powell now there manager have made good signings over the summer. As for Tottenham Hotspur Ladies themselves have a strong winning mentality and haven’t had to wait over a year like in previous seasons to make their FAWSL bow. 

Durham Women FC one of the founder members of FAWSL 2 are well established and stable. Progress made on and off the pitch since 2014. Finishing in the top half of the table in 2016 & 2017. Attendances have steadily grown one of the best in engaging with fans on social media haven’t the men’s club behind them but are a leading force for women’s football in the North East likely to challenge rivals AFC Sunderland in that regards if they keep going the way they are. Named FAWSL 2 Club of the Year the side collected the award in front of their home crowd before today’s game. Have added a few additions to their squad, Striker Abigail Cottam along with midfielder Nicola Worthington. Scottish defender, Kathryn Hill also comes to Durham along with Scottish youngster Ellis Dagliesh.

Durham Women FC – FAWSL 2 Club of the Season

 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies stormed to the FAWPL Southern Division title last season, going unbeaten for most of the campaign. Went on to beat Blackburn Rovers Ladies the Northern Champions in the FAWPL Play-off game in Charlton back in may. A short but in real terms close season to prepare with the FAWSL reverting back to the winter clubs no longer having to wait over 8 months to begin life in the FAWSL. Karen Hills side is one of the most exciting and attack minded teams I’ve seen play and have no doubt that is how they will approach life in the FAWSL. Have made a few new signings bringing in some FAWSL experience with striker Sarah Wiltshire joining from Yeovil Town Ladies, Carol-Jade Haines comes to the club on a season long loan from Birmingham City Ladies. Ashleigh Neville joins from Coventry United Ladies. Hannah McKenzie from Reading FC Women. Lauren Pickett new to the club too looks a talented addition. Whilst it’s also good to see the likes of captain Jenna Schillaci, goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne and attacker Wendy Martin getting an opportunity to show what they can do at this level. Tottenham are also the FAWPL Club of the Year with Karen Hills awarded Manager of the Year.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies – FAWPL Playoff Champions

New Ferens Park the venue for today’s game have only been here once before it’s a long way from Norfolk. That said a simple run A17 then A1 just off the motorway. 3 and a half hours and the radio managed to stay on the whole way there for a change. A compact ground an all weather playing surface. A seated stand along one side housing the changing rooms a cafe bar on entry. Hot refreshments available I wasn’t hungry but was lured by the smell of cooking bacon so I gave in very nice it was too. Looked an interesting game on paper a chance to see what Durham were made of and whether Tottenham were ready for the next challenge.

Durham Women FC starting XI – Helen Alderson, Anabel Johnson, Jordan Atkinson, Sarah Wilson (C), Caroline Dixon, Beth Hepple, Zoe Ness, Emily Roberts, Kathryn Hill, Rachel Lee & Nicki Gears. Subs – Megan Bothwick, Nicola Worthington, Ellie Curson, Lauren Briggs & Abigail Cottam.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Lucia Leon, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Ashleigh Neville, Coral-Jade Haynes, Sarah Wiltshire, Wendy Martin & Bianca Baptiste. Subs – Chloe Morgan, Hannah McKenzie, Lauren Pickett & Ronnell Humes.

It’s Durham in their all blue kit to get the 1st half kicked off with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Right from the off Tottenham press Durham for the ball win possession down the left Sarah Wiltshire wins her side a corner kick. The inswinging delivery coming central Durham goalkeeper Helen Alderson rises to punch the ball away across goal a 2nd corner, this one fired in near post is attacked by Durham headed clear. 

  The visitors on the front foot Coral-Jade Haines plays a long pass out for Wiltshire breaking left with the ball cuts inside puts the ball into the middle, Sarah Wilson, Durham’s captain clears comes out to Ashleigh Neville on the left, Wiltshire ahead of her takes it on down the line fired the cross in this time headed clear from inside the six yard box by Durham’s Caroline Dixon. Kathryn Hill bringing the but up from the back sends a diagonal pass out to the left wing the early cross in won by Tottenham captain, Jenna Schillaci. A fast paced start Tottenham setting the tempo.

Durham captain Sarah Wilson up against Tottenham’s Sarah Wiltshire

  Bianca Baptiste on the ball right side for Tottenham, is brought down by Dixon the referee having a word with the defender. Schillaci to play the set-piece from wide right outside the box heading towards goal a great save from Alderson to tip the ball away across goal for a corner kick. Sophie McLean has made a couple of runs from midfield to get ahead of the attack to Tottenham slid through into the box right of goal, Alderson closing her down saves near post. 

  Beth Hepple looks to thread a ball into Zoe Ness inside the Tottenham area as the home side attack through the middle the ball is won back and send long, good head work from Baptiste through the middle knocking it on for Wiltshire the striker is clear on goal taking the ball into the box, Alderson comes out stays big as Wiltshire looks to place her shot wide of her, not wide enough the keeper going to ground snatching the ball into her body.

A competitive contest both sides battling for the ball Durham haven’t made the most of it early on getting forward Hill tries her luck from 25 yards out as the ball is rolled into her path, struck well goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne can see it wide of her near post. McLean getting forwards on the left links up with Wiltshire her ball into the box cut out Durham counter attack Jordan Atkinson receives the ball in space on the right delivers an inviting cross towards the far post, Schillaci again has her head on it.

  20 minutes of the 1st half played an intriguing game Tottenham more than matching Durham the home side starting to get a little more possession in the final 3rd. Looking to take players on as she picks up the ball wide left Emily Roberts drives in field making ground is brought down. The free-kick floated into the crowd gathered inside the box is deflected onto Atkinson in space inside the area right of goal puts her foot through the ball her strike flying wide across the Tottenham goal. Durham are starting to find space on the flanks, Nikki Gears riding a challenge taking the ball on to the by-line sees her cross claimed by Wayne. Rachel Lee sends a shot whistling over the bar from outside the box as the clearance from a free-kick delivery falls to her.

  Wiltshire and Baptiste switch flanks for Tottenham, now left Baptiste springs the offside trap plenty of pace surges down the wing cutting the cross in along the top of the six yard box, Wendy Martin coming in near post can’t quite reach it, races on through to Wiltshire she plays the ball back for McLean at the top of the area, leaning back into her shot she lifts the ball up over the crossbar. Lucia Leon is caught in possession bringing the ball out from the back for Tottenham out of position Atkinson moves forwards onto the pass forwards lets fly from outside the area her shot straight at Wayne saved,

  The ball sent up field from the back by Tottenham, Dixon and Martin go up to contest it Martin grounded the ball is knocked on picked up by Baptiste is quick to release it fired across to Wiltshire moving into the area from the right, Alderson comes racing out to met her Wiltshire tries to lob her squeezes the ball past her but no pace, full back Annabel Johnson has gotten round on the cover to clear. Roberts coming on with the ball left sends her cross racing through the six yard box picked up by Atkinson far side she lays it back for Ness who sends er shot over for Durham.

Tottenham’s Wendy Martin contests the ball with Durham’s Beth Hepple

  Martin sends the ball on for Wiltshire as she beats the offside flag left side moving down the line fires a vicious cross along the six yard box looking for Martin making a far post run, Martin puts the ball back out of the area towards Haines coming on she strikes the ball hard, Wilson blocks feeling the full force of the shot stays down, the ball is scrambled behind for a corner. A pause in play Wilson off the pitch for the corner. The ball played long towards the far post drops to Wiltshire she strikes the ball goalwards Alderson across her goal drops forwards to make the save.

GOAL! In minute of normal time to play in the 1st half the stalemate is broken and it’s the home side who take the lead. Attacking down the right Gears on the ball the cross is fired into the Tottenham box is behind Ness who has made a central run adjusts well spinning falling back knocks the ball out of the area towards Hepple. Very little back lift n her strike gets plenty of power behind the shot nevertheless, Wayne is rooted to the spot as the ball races past her to nestle in the back of the net 1-0.

GOAL! The lead doesn’t last long however Tottenham restart and go straight on the offensive the ball with Baptiste on the left wing she has space to run into takes the ball all the way into the box closing in on the six yard box shoots sending the ball across Alderson and into the bottom corner to equalise and in doing so score Tottenham’s 1st ever FAWSL goal 1-1.

Bianca Baptiste scores Tottenham’s 1st ever FAWSL goal

GOAL! Into 1st half injury time and again Durham come back to retake the lead breaking up a Tottenham attack the ball worked rapidly through the middle put into the box comes onto Gears inside the area 10 or so yards out, spins and shoots the ball finding its way inside the near post before the diving Wayne can get there 2-1.

Nikki Gears restores Durham’s lead

Half-time Durham Women FC 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

  3 goals in quick succession at the end of the 1st half and Durham go into the changing rooms leading 2-1. That scoreline could just as easily been the other way around Tottenham starting the game on the front foot getting forwards had some good opportunities to take the lead. Durham grew into the match and when the chances came their way took them. An entertaining 1st half.

Tottenham to get the 2nd half underway no changes from either side at the break. Wiltshire is fouled as she attacks down the left players come up from the back for the free-kick, a great delivery into the area Neville gets her head on the ball directs it into the back of the net however it won’t count as the flag is raised for offside. Wiltshire on the ball central again lifts the ball into the area for Baptiste running away to the right of goal taking the ball on checks back to evade a tackle then looks to scoop the cross up towards the far post, Alderson can get her gloves around the ball.

Durham’s Kathryn Hill with Tottenham’s Sophie McLean

  Good work from Haines winning the ball out to Green moving into space on the left pushes on before whipping a ball into the area, Martin goes up for it near post can’t get a clean header on it knocked to the ground the Durham defence shields the ball allowing Alderson to gather. End to end both sides leaving room to exploit on their flanks Roberts threads a pass through to Gears on the left, McLean tracking back slide in to concede the corner before the cross can be put in. The resulting corner is headed clear Tottenham break the ball with Baptiste she surges forwards sends the ball into the box early too close to Alderson the keeper takes cleanly.

Tottenham’s Josie Green

Good running from Gears moving clear on the left once again squares the ball into the area as she arrives at the top of the box looking to pick out Roberts she connects with the ball 1st time turning it goalwards but without the power needed to evade Wayne the keeper going down claiming the ball. Durham coming at Tottenham more 2nd half Roberts finding more time on the ball. Finds Gears available on the left side again taking the ball to the byline sends a cross in towards the near post Ness arriving turns it goalwards Wayne has the post covered saves a close range the ball behind for a corner kick.

Durham Women FC’s Emily Roberts

Atkinson on the right gathers the ball from inside the Tottenham drives forwards shooting from 30 yards out the ball sailing over the bar. Hector trips Hepple as the Durham midfielder looking to take the Tottenham defence on through the middle. The set-piece in a dangerous position top of the D. Hepple with the shot sends her strike over the bar.

Durham’s Rachel Lee with Tottenham’s Coral-Jade Haines

Tottenham make a double change 21 minutes into the 2nd half bringing off Haines and Martin send on Ronnell Humes and Lauren Pickett. Durham also make a change bringing Abi Cottam on for Atkinson. A free-kick for Tottenham wide on the right the ball flighted into the top of the area half cleared falls to Wiltshire central 20 yards out jinks left the right before taking a shot the ball easily palmed down by the keeper. Tottenham make their final change bringing off Leon for Hannah McKenzie.

  Durham bring on Lauren Briggs for Gears. Durham press forwards Roberts sees her shot from the top of the area deflected wide for a corner kick on the right, a good ball delivered centrally, Cottam gets her head on the ball puts it wide across goal. Durham looking the stronger as the game moves into the latter stages. McLean puts a cross into the box from the right for Tottenham, Baptiste after it goes down under challenge but the appeals are waved away. A single goal it still Tottenham press forwards, Durham ready to hit on the counter Cottam is clear left side driving towards the box Wayne comes to meet her the attacker knocking the ball beyond the keeper goes after t looks to send the ball in from the six yard line, Tottenham have Schillaci and Hector racing back between them the ball is cleared of the line. 

Durham make their final change, Ness coming off to be replaced by  Nicola Worthington. The game moves into the last 7 minutes. Getting forwards players around the box the ball sits up nicely for McKenzie to strike Alderson concedes the corner making the save. The ball drops over the players gathered near post drops to Humes stabs the ball up over the bar. A throw left for Durham inside the Tottenham half into Worthington chips it on for Hepple 25 yards out not closed down has a go for goal her strike rising swerving away from goal. Tottenham push on late into the game 2 crosses into the Durham box cleared by Wilson.  The final whistle blows the flurry of goals at the end of the 1st half enough to secure and opening day win for Durham.

Full-time Durham Women FC 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

   An entertaining game to watch fast paced. Durham not quite at their best starting with a good result however matching Tottenham’s tempo 2nd half the game might have gone either way. Tottenham will be disappointed to start with loss but nevertheless showed they are more than capable of competing in the FAWSL and that will only make the league more exciting than it already is.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

   These decisions don’t get any easier picking today’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match is another tough one. Thought Sophie McLean was fantastic for Tottenham. Have chosen Durham’s Emily Roberts strong running with the ball and more often than not her pass found a teammate going forwards, setting up a few chances.

  Good to finally get back into some FAWSL action even if it was a long journey still is, as I churn this last bit off in the Motorway Services… been a long time since I’ve done that too. A good game to watch in front of a great crowd of 617 too plenty of chips sold too. My thanks to Durham Women’s FC for their help today especially Mark Donnelly. Best of luck to both sides for the rest of the season.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

This Sunday’s football action on the SWF Blog came from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup with 12 sides left in the competition vying for 6 spots in the 5th Round when the 10 FAWSL 1 sides enter the cup. The venue today Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies unbeaten in all competitions so far this season take on their biggest test yet FAWSL 2 opposition with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the visitors.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

 
  This Sunday’s action on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog comes from the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup the entrants whittled down to just 12 sideLondonontest 6 ties to be joined by the sides from FAWSL 1 that will enter the competition in the 5th Round, today it’s a trip to Cheshunt FC to watch FAWPL Southern Division leaders Tottenham Hotspur Ladies take on the newest side to join the FAWSL, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

  Have been trying to get down to see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play twice so far in 2017 but the weather has put pay to that both times around, they are enjoying a fabulous season so far are undefeated in all competitions with just the one draw in the league to date. Into the semi-finals of the Capital Women’s Cup and FAWPL Cup where they are defending the trophy. Have also reached the Boux Avenue Final for the 3rd consecutive season. A tough challenge today against FAWSL opposition in the cup as Tottenham look to be one of the few remaining FAWPL sides to make it into the 5th Round Proper. 

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies entered this season’s FA Women’s Cup in the 1st Round Proper of the competition were drawn at home to Leyton Orient WFC a single goal scored by Wendy Martin taking the FAWPL Southern Division leaders through to the 2nd Round Proper where they were drawn at home playing FAWPL South East Division One side, Gillingham FC Ladies a much more comfortable result winning 3-0 to set up a long away trip to play FAWPL Northern Division leaders Blackburn Rovers Ladies. The sides level at 1-1 going into 2nd half injury time Bianca Baptiste scored for Tottenham in the 93rd minute to seal a 2-1 victory and a home draw in the 4th Round against Brighton & Hove Albion WFC.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC did last season what Tottenham are hope to achieve this time around, win the FAWPL Southern Division title. Went on to beat Sporting Club Albion Ladies in the FAWPL Play-off game back in May last year. Making their bow in the FAWSL 2 Spring Series last Saturday earning a 1-1 draw away to London Bees. Played their 1st competitive match of the season in the previous round of the FA Women’s Cup before that the FAWSL 2 sides entering the competition in the 3rd Round Proper were drawn away to FAWPL South East Division One side, AFC Wimbledon Ladies won the game 4-1 to advance to the next round.

  Cheshunt FC  the venue for today’s FA Women’s Cup tie, the pitch a good size showing a little wear has seen alot of football this season, was nevertheless firm and dry underfoot. The weather has been poor at the start of 2017 plenty of matches called off but no danger of that this Sunday a fairly mild day for February dark clouds overhead a hint of a light shower but nothing else as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Renee Hector, Jenna Schillaci (C), Leah Rawle, Lucia Leon, Josie Green, Sophie McLean, Riana Soobadoo, Bianca Baptiste, Nikita Whinnett & Wendy Martin.
  subs – Megan Lynch, Kelley Blanchflower, Maya Vio & Eartha Pond.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC starting XI – Emma Byrne, Jenna Legg, Sophie Perry (C), Vicki Ashton-Jones, Charlotte Young, Kirsty Barton, Laura Rafferty, Lucy Somes, Alessia Russo, Kate Natkiel & Amy Taylor.
  subs – Leah Samain, Hollie Olding, Bronwen Thomas & Ellie Dorey

   It’s Brighton to get today’s FA Women’s Cup tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing orange shirts, white shorts and socks with Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts, navy shorts and socks. Right from the 1st Brighton touch Tottenham move in quickly to press the ball winning possession the ball is played forwards up to Wendy Martin in attack inside the box is played back to Nikita Whinnett who joined the club from Charlton Athletic Women in the summer, outside the area is closed down go Jenna Legg as she looks to turn in behind the ball lost is picked up by Leah Rawle getting forwards from the back for Tottenham drives with the ball at her feet down the left wing squaring a high cross into the Brighton six yard box is comfortably claimed by goalkeeper, Emma Byrne.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Wendy Martin

  Brighton get hold of the ball as it is played into the feet of Kate Natkiel helps it on out to the right wing with Alessia Russo getting forwards cutting back inside as she reaches the top of the Tottenham box cuts across her shot as she sends the ball goalwards causing it it swerve away from goal landing in the side netting. The game has started at a rapid tempo no one afforded much time on the ball, winning it at the back Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci plays it long through the middle with Whinnett making a central run getting clear of the Brighton centre-backs, Byrne is well placed at the top of the area to gather before the striker can capitalise.

   Lucia Leon is forwards on the right for Tottenham as the home side builds an attack has support from Sophie McLean they exchange passes 25 yards out before Leon threaded a diagonal ball into the box looking for Martin near post, looks to see the ball across her body intending to take a shot, Whinnett slips her marker making a move for the ball leaning into the shot reaches it before Martin sends her effort curling wide of the post. 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Nikita Whinnett

  Tottenham playing 3 at the back are playing a high line, looks risky if the opposition can get in behind however they drop back very quickly went their opponents regain the ball and with Josie Green playing just in front of the back 3 the defenders either side of Schillaci, Renee Hector and Rawle can move across to deal with their respective wide players. In attack Whinnett and Bianca Baptiste on the right side are providing the width but the Brighton defence is well organised and the final ball from both sides is being won by a defender in the early exchanges. 

 

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies
captain Jenna Schillaci

Leon get’s hold of the ball inside the Brighton half for Tottenham rolls it on for Baptiste down the right wing taking the ball down to the byline into the area her attempted cross is charged down by Vicki Ashton-Jones as she goes to ground the ball rebounding back to Baptiste tries again playing the ball in towards the near post is scooped up on the bounce by Byrne. A quick counter attack the ball played into midfield Laura Rafferty plays it to Lucy Somes on the left side playing it on for Amy Taylor the striker with Hector on her shoulder heads for the box left of goal is past the onrushing keeper but play is brought back as Taylor fouled hector in the process.

  Russo closes down Schillaci taking the ball from the defender as she tries to bring it out from the back running in behind takes on the shot from outside the box, her low drive stopped by goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne diving to her left. Green carries the ball forwards for Tottenham passing it onto Riana Soobadoo ahead of her sends the ball out towards Baptiste on the right a burst of pace before playing a pacey cross in towards martin moving towards the near post, can’t get a touch as the ball runs across her races across the face of goal and out of play for a goal-kick at the far post.

  Brighton captain, Sophie Perry is allowed to travel with the ball on the left plays it on for Somes ahead of her comes in field before rolling the ball across to Taylor outside the box, her 1st time strike is blocked by Schillaci. End to end Tottenham soon have the ball up the other end over the top with Baptiste giving chase Byrne plays the ball wide attempting to put it out for a throw is retrieved by Martin who plays it back in to Baptiste 25 yards out takes on the strike her shot sailing over the bar. Brighton are getting a little frustrated are pinned back inside their half with Tottenham pressing all over the park can’t get anything to stick higher up the pitch. 

Nikita Whinnett holds Brighton captain, Sophie Perry off the ball

  Somes is fouled wide on the left with around 10 minutes of the 1st half left, Charlotte Young makes a late run to get up into the area from the back as Perry delivers the ball into the area, is over Young dropping for Hector beyond her clearance is picked up by Natkiel 25 yards out drives the ball low into the area, is blocked too many bodies to go through, running out of play the referee gives a goal-kick. The 1st corner of the game doesn’t come until the 37th minute going to Tottenham, Martin forcing the error from Young the set-piece comes to nothing. 

Brighton’s Amy Taylor looks to get the better of Tottenham’s Jenna Schillaci

  Leon steals in to win the ball inside the Brighton half getting it forwards produces a defence splitting pass to thread the ball in towards Martin centrally positioned inside the area, Legg with a superb recovering tackle gets across in the nick of time to take the ball away from Martin’s toes Young clearing the ball from the area. The last 5 minutes of the 1st half is full of promising attacks but both defences working hard to stop the final ball see very little action inside the box. Late on into injury time in the 1st half Natkiel getting the ball out to Russo right earns Brighton a throw-in, played in towards Russo outside the Tottenham area turns in field heading for the box jinks right avoiding Rawle’s lunging challenge then rifles her shot over the crossbar.

 Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

  An intriguing 1st half an entertaining game so far 2 closely matched sides testing each other out, few chances created in the match despite both sides constantly looking for an opening. Tottenham have edged the chances in front of goal although neither goalkeeper has been tested yet. Beautifully poised the 2nd half could go either way. 
  No changes for either side although Rafferty has a bandaged knee following a knock picked up in the 1st half for Brighton. Tottenham to get the 2nd half started. Have the early possession McLean playing the ball forwards into Martin with Whinnett close by, outside the area a shot comes in runs wide of goal.
  Tottenham have a throw-in high up the pitch on the right the ball is played into Whinnett’s feet turning inside pushes for the box right of goal unleashes a shot flies across Byrne positioned centrally, strikes the far post and rebounds out towards Baptiste racing into the area throws herself at the ball, flies up over Byrne coming down off the crossbar Brighton struggle to get it clear coming back to Baptiste has another go a wild strike flies high over the bar. 
  Rafferty getting the ball forwards has Somes in space out wide left picks her out with a well timed long pass, Somes looks to control and come inside top of the area thread the ball into Taylor in a central position, Leon has support from Soobadoo as the pair get back to squeeze Somes off the ball before she can deliver the final ball. Brighton push numbers forwards with purpose in the next attack the ball from Barton out to the right lifted into the area Taylor hitting it on the run is blocked at close range the rebound falling favourably for Tottenham to clear. 
 GOAL! 12 minutes played in the 2nd half and the deadlock is broken, Tottenham have a throw up on the the right inside the Brighton half the ball is played into Whinnett who comes inside with the ball 25 yards out across the face of the area rolls the ball into Martin back to goal inside the area turns her shot blocked by Ashton-Jones closely marking her the ball is cleared out to the left going straight to Baptiste, takes on the shot from distance her strike flying over Byrne and under the bar into the back of the net to give Tottenham the lead 1-0. 
 
Tottenham’s Bianca Baptiste with Brighton’s Charlotte Young
  McLean is fouled as she holds the ball up wide on the right Tottenham send players forwards into the box as Hector stands over the set-piece the ball is flighted in to the area with Whinnett making a run from the penalty spot to the near post, the delivery too close to Byrne the goalkeeper can get her gloves firmly around the ball 1st. Whinnett on the ball a powerful run on the right lays the pass inside for McLean 25 yards out central sends a high ball into the box, Byrne calls and claims it with Martin in behind her. 
  Young sends the ball long from the back for Brighton with Somes giving chase into the left corner coming back up the pitch plays it across the top of the area into Barton, shifts it looking for room to play a pass sending it on for Natkiel top of the D puts the ball into the area with Taylor after it, Green is ahead of her looks to shield the ball out of play as it runs wide, gets a shove from Taylor a bit of afters sees Taylor yellow carded. Natkiel gets possession of the ball on the right pushing forwards her cross into the area is headed away by Rawle, dropping towards Barton outside the area, has no time to see the ball down onto the floor goes for the acrobatic sends the ball goalwards too high however whistles over the bar.
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC’s, Kirsty Barton
 The game is stretched the tempo hasn’t dropped in the slightest, Brighton pressing looking for an equaliser, Tottenham wanting a 2nd goal. Ashton-Jones fouls Whinnett on halfway, Baptiste over the ball floats it up towards the top of the area, Young headers clear, falling to Soobadoo hits it back in along the ground, blocked then cleared. Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards giving Brighton a free-kick 35 yards out, Perry on the ball goes for goal, Wayne can see the ball run wide of goal. Tottenham make their 1st change on 71 minutes bringing on Maya Vio for Soobadoo. 
Brighton’s Jenna Legg is fouled as she brings the ball forwards
  Brighton respond with a double change on 76 minutes with Rafferty and Somes the players coming off, Bronwen Thomas and Hollie Olding. Martin and Whinnett try a one two outside the area Ashton-Jones nips in to tackle and win the ball. Russo is playing through the middle now for Brighton supporting Taylor with Natkiel left, Thomas right win a corner, Tottenham defend well threaten to counter attack, Barton wins the ball back. The ball is played out to Thomas attacking down the right fizzes a cross in towards the near post getting down falling onto the ball Wayne spills her initial save but recovers quickly to get up smother the ball with Taylor closing in. 
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC
captain, Sophie Perry
  Perry brings the ball on down the left for Brighton her cross is cut back towards the top of the area controlled well by Thomas just inside the area plays it back to Natkiel lays it out to Legg coming in from the right her ball lifted into the area runs wide at the near post. Perry again up the left for Natkiel who plays it inside to Russo sees Wayne off her line tries the lob from distance but off target bounces wide of goal. Baptiste run of running gets across from the left to the right winning a throw-in for Tottenham the ball is played into McLean plays it into Whinnett central takes on the shot places the ball straight into Byrne who holds onto the ball. 
  Into the closing minutes Brighton break down the right Russo with the ball at her feet sends in a low drive angling into the bottom corner, Wayne dives full stretch across her goal to get a glove to the ball push it with a vital save to keep Tottenham’s lead intact. Tottenham defend the corner kick. Brighton push everyone forwards late into the game everyone bar their keeper in the Tottenham half, risk the counter but need the goal get hit on the break Whinnett getting in behind on the right holds the ball up well before playing in inside to Martin a good turn before playing it on for Baptiste coming in from the left her goal bound effort blocked by Legg. 
  Into injury time and the last place Brighton want the ball is with the Tottenham attackers in the corner. The home side do a great job of keeping the ball there to see out the game and win, Bianca Baptiste’s strike enough to see the FAWPL Southern Division side into the 5th Round of the FA Women’s Cup.
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies celebrate at the final whistle
Full time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 1-0 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

  A really good contest to watch this one, 2 very good sides, a single goal enough to win the game, Tottenham continuing their excellent run of form, can see why they are doing so well and glad I got down to see them at last this season. Brighton created chances but not much inside the box, prevented very little inside their box as well both sides pressing the ball Tottenham just had the extra bit of movement in their legs to get the result on the day.
SWF Blog – Player of the Match

  A good all round team performance from Tottenham today, a well taken goal from Baptiste, however today’s SWF Blog Player of the Match goes to Josie Green in midfield covered plenty of ground in front of the defence stifling Brighton’s attack winning the ball and a range of pass to turn a defensive position into a rapid attack.
Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Josie Green
  My thanks to Tottenham for helping me out with the teams today.
 *UPDATE* The draw for the 5th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup will see Tottenham Hotspur Ladies play FAWSL 1 side Arsenal Ladies away from home in a North London derby on the weekend of 18th/19th March.

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

Football action featured 1st on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog Sunday 10th April

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

  As most of you know when I’m not writing match reports on this blog I also look after the @WF_East twitter account and it’s website www.womensfootballeast.com which tries to cover as much women’s football in the East of England as it can. The top league covered there is the FAWPL Southern Division, but to date I haven’t seen the side that has been leading the way for most of the season, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. Have one more league game left away to Tottenham Hotspur Ladies and it is a huge game for them one of the biggest they’ve ever played the scenario is simple, win and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC will be Champions.

  Brighton & Hove Albion WFC have gotten matches played when others haven’t earlier in the season having gotten themselves into an early lead, were only off the top briefly in November when they lost 2 back to back league games. Those though were the only 2 league defeats to be suffered and recovering from that mini wobble went on to storm ahead in the table get their games in to leave themselves their destiny in their own hands knowing a win today will see them win the league even though their rivals Charlton Athletic Women (2nd) and Cardiff City Ladies (3rd) both have games in hand the maximum points tally both can achieve is 52 and 53 points respectfully, Brighton have 51 points now, 3 more from today’s game and it’s all over.

  Can’t and won’t take anything for granted a tough away trip for their final league match of the season, playing Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, who I have seen a few times this season, but not in league action. Sitting in mid-table have won half of their league matches with 20 played to date, lost 9 with just the 1 draw have reached 3 Cup Finals, knocking Brighton out of the FAWPL League Cup at the quarter final stage back in March thanks to a goal in the final minutes. Manager Karen Hills has if all players are fit a large squad to chose from however of late that has not been the case with several unavailable again through injury or international duty.

  That defeat of Brighton in the FAWPL League Cup to place at today’s venue, Brimsdown Sports Ground, home of Brimsdown Rovers FC instead of Tottenham’s usual home venue Cheshunt FC. The pitch situated behind a large clubhouse and function room. A large playing surface looked a little cut up, but good grass cover the ground itself could do with a little TLC, a small seated stand on one side opposite the dugouts. A bright sunny day, some cloud cover but no chance of rain. The crowd swelled by a good number of Brighton supporters hoping to see their side make history.  

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI – Toni-Anne Wayne, Lucia Leon, Shannon Moloney, Eartha Pond, Alex Keown, Maya Vio, Riana-Devi Soobadoo, Josie Green, Rosie Kmita, Wendy Martin (C) & Kelley Blanchflower.
   subs – Bianca Baptiste, Ronnell Humes, Kate O’Leary & Shakira Waithe.

   Brighton & Hove Albion starting XI – Faye Baker, Catherine Cooper, Vicky Ashton-Jones, Deanna Cooper, Jay Blackie (C), Kirsty Barton, Sophie Perry, Charley Boswell, Kate Natkiel, Charlotte Gurr & Amy Taylor.
   subs – Ellie Dorey, Lucy Somes, Lisa Fulgence, Nina Wilson & Lily Agg.

   Lucia Leon was partnering Alex Keown in defence for Tottenham in the absence of regular captain Jenna Schillaci, Wendy Martin wearing the armband for them this afternoon lined up in their white shirts and socks with navy shorts with Brighton having kick off 1st half lined up in their away kit off what Nike call ‘Volt’ shirts and socks, (lime green) and back shorts. The ball is played out to the left side early on with Sophie Perry pushing down that flank up against Shannon Moloney played at right back for Tottenham today she defends well winning the ball, puts it long into the Brighton half, goes all the way back to goalkeeper Faye Baker, who shows good distribution of the ball from the back picking out Perry with a long kick, runs into traffic the ball going out for a throw.

Brighton’s Catherine Cooper keeping close tabs on Tottenham’s Kelley Blanchflower

Obvious early on this match is going to be played at a fast pace and both sides are going to close the ball down quickly, forcing both sides into rushed passes several are going astray. Charley Boswell attacking down the right for Brighton finds herself in space high up the pitch as the ball pops free from the pinball in the centre out to her, drives with it to the touchline cuts a cross in along the six yard box, racing back Tottenham’s Alex Keown cuts it out turning the ball behind for a corner kick. A high ball swept in from the right comes central, Tottenham goalkeeper Toni-Anne Wayne rises unopposed to claim the ball.

   Brighton’s Vicky Ashton-Jones plays a long ball out from the back left side coming central drops for Gurr 20 plus yards out knows Wayne is off her line behind her goes for the lob sending the ball high, but it bounces harmlessly wide of goal. Brighton have started well Boswell and Perry providing good outlets for the ball right and left. Perry fires in an early cross on the diagonal from the left side racing across the six yard box, Natkiel chasing in far post can’t quite get her toe on the end of the cross to turn the ball home. 

Riana-Devi Soobadoo wins the header against Brighton’s Amy Taylor

  Tottenham are contesting the ball well enough in the midfield have found it hard to get it into the attacking trio of Martin, Rosie Kmita and Kelley Blanchflower the latter two try to link up create something as Riana-Devi Soobadoo gets hold of the ball and releases Kmita down the left wing, pushing in has Blanchflower inside her looking for the ball to be played ahead of her run into the box, Kmita sends it in, seeing the attack build Baker has already started to come and calling for it collects as her defence blocks off Blanchflower’s run.

   A free kick wide left for Brighton, Perry to whips the ball in comes in towards the near post, bounces right before Wayne who has the angle covered gathers 2nd time despite a runner coming, Natkiel I think who ends up colliding with the post, but it’s alright. Brighton captain Jay Blackie plays a great ball from inside her own half up towards Amy Taylor the striker in a central position headers the ball down to the right where Boswell is in space, drives forwards, cuts the cross back in along the six yard area, Keown tracking back cuts the ball out putting it behind for a corner kick. The corner is put in long drifts out of play beyond the far post.

  Leon is looking to bring the ball out from the back for Tottenham when she is brought down by Taylor, clear the defender is in trouble as the trainer runs on a lengthy stoppage and sadly  the stretcher has to be brought on as she can no longer continue. Shakira Waithe is the substitute, goes to left back with Eartha Pond starting in that position moving into the centre of defence along side Keown. A free kick to Tottenham goes long, Brighton’s Deanna Cooper with a firm header clears the threat. Play continues to be constricted to the middle neither side finding the cutting ball into the area to send an attacker through. 

Josie Green looking for a passing option for Tottenham

 Martin is being well marked by Brighton as she looks to get hold of the ball up top for Tottenham. Maya Vio, Josie Green and Soobadoo are battling hard in midfield not making it easy for Brighton to pick their way through. Green gets the ball up to Kmita left side again pushing on cuts a cross back in along the face of the area, Blanchflower the target, Ashton-Jones with the interception. Moloney gets a talking to from the referee as she commits a foul in front of the stand, From a deep position on the left it’s Deanna Cooper to take sends a fantastic flighted ball long towards the far post with Boswell totally free to run in and attack it with Wayne drifting across her goal, Boswell looks to nod the header back across her, the goalkeeper flashes up a hand to stop the ball then bring it under control and hold.

GOAL! Into injury time in the 1st half and the stalemate is broken, Brighton hit Tottenham on the break and for once as the ball is swung in from the left the visitors have managed to overload the area have two players spare coming in behind the defence into the area, Wayne has to come off her line try to get to the ball, reaches the closest Brighton attacker 1st, Taylor who gets her foot to the ball 1st prods it past Wayne to roll home just inside the post. An important game for Brighton and it’s clear from the enthused celebration that greets the goal it has released alot of tension 0-1.

  Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 0-1 Brighton & Hove Albion WFC
   Brighton take the narrowest of leads into the dressing room at half-time in what has been a scrappy 1st half, neither side getting hold of the ball for long. Brighton have had more opportunity to go forwards with the ball, the final pass more often than not failing to come off. Have dealt with the threat Tottenham’s attackers posed to their defence well with Blackie staying back to receive the ball and set up play further up the field. 
  The teams are out for the 2nd 45, a lead to defend as it stands Brighton are on course to win the title. Tottenham to take the kick off. Pushing up towards the Brighton area lose the ball is played out up towards Gurr who has Perry racing down the left flank plays the pass out to her, the cross is fired in towards Taylor in the centre, she ends up fouling Pond trying to get around the defender.
Tottenham’s Shannon Moloney
   Coming out with the ball on the left Kmita sends what looks to be a nothing ball into the Brighton area, Blanchflower is up there but it is going to bounce into the waiting Baker’s gloves, at least it should have, must have woken a mole up or something because it skips up and threatens to embarrass the keeper going over her head she punches it away to her left across the six yard  box her defence getting it clear. 
  Another awkward ball for Baker to deal with as Tottenham’s Blanchflower lofts a high ball into the area from a good distance out, is turned over for a corner kick. Pond to take from the right sends in a vicious ball dissecting the six yard box coming far post, Ashton-Jones does well to head it behind for a corner, with martin a dead cert to score coming in behind her. The 2nd corner from the left side is wasted.
   Perry is a constant threat for Brighton on their left Kirsty Barton puts the ball out to her feet on the wing Perry surges on up the line squares the cross in to the six yard box with Taylor at the near post tries to turn and hit her shot the ball is blocked by the defender up against her, rolls away Taylor goes for it trying to turn it back on target, slices the ball wide of goal. 1st change for Brighton with Lily Agg coming on for Gurr, going into the midfield Natkiel is pushed up along side Taylor for now. Another chance for Taylor to double her goal tally as Agg gets hold of the ball in the centre her pass up top is deflected off a defender into the run of Taylor 20 yards out goes to shot gets it wrong sends the ball over the bar.
Sophie Perry full of running on the left for
Brighton was a threat all afternoon
   Baker is getting some testing ball put her way in the Brighton goal, this one fired in from distance by Green who gets plenty of zip on the ball, bouncing before it reaches the keeper again skips up again and Baker does well to adjust and tip the ball over the bar for the corner kick. Tottenham see the corner cleared off the line as it is fired in low and fast along the six yard box coming all the way through to Keown racing onto it connect well, blocked on the line before eventually being cleared. Pond has another chance to play the ball into the area for Tottenham as they are awarded a free kick wide on the right sends the ball in high looping towards the far post area a great save from Baker to turn the ball over and out for a corner kick. Tottenham make their 2nd change of the match sending on Bianca Baptiste for Martin. 
  GOAL! Super sub! I had just written… ‘and immediately Baptiste starts by putting herself about.’ Straight away the Tottenham striker is after the Brighton defenders hustling them on the ball pushing them into taking the ball right 20 yards out she steals the ball and from the right corner outside the area looks to go for goal, is a quality strike coming in fast sweeps over Baker and drops behind into the goal 1-1, Tottenham get themselves back on level terms with 20 minutes left to play.
   Blackie with a quality pass out to Perry on the left sets up another Brighton attack the ball squared into the area again Taylor coming towards it has Keown on her shoulder, but despite being put under challenge connects with the ball turning her shot goalwards, flies over the crossbar. 
Amy Taylor scoring both Brighton
goals to seal a 2-1 win
  GOAL! Less than 15 minutes left and Brighton regain the lead. Again Perry is heavily involved with the build up, with the ball on the left fires it in to Taylor coming near post her turn and hit is blocked the ball rebounding out to Natkiel who pulls the trigger from outside the box into the crowd is deflected back out to the left, won back by Perry her 2nd cross comes to Taylor just inside the area this time she curls her shot around Wayne and into the back of the net to cue another round of exuberant celebrations 1-2.
 
  Before the goal Brighton were thinking about a change and make it anyway, with Lisa Fulgence coming on for Catherine Cooper, joins Taylor up top, Natkiel going back into the centre. 7 minutes left on the clock and Brighton are defending for their lives as Tottenham look to push on the ball. The ball is pinging about, Fulgence is flagged offside as Taylor latches onto the ball and drives into the Tottenham half.
  The match moves into stoppage time, Tottenham are applying the pressure, the Brighton fans in front of me don’t know what to do with themselves. Soobadoo gets her foot in wins the ball plays it on to Blanchflower, her pass comes to Green 20 yards out right side of the area hits the shot on the half volley, comes safely through into bakers gloves as she kneels to meet it no awkward bounce this time and that’s it the final whistle blows and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC win the game 2-1 and everyone races onto the pitch for a mass celebration inside the centre circle. 54 points secured and no one can catch them now! Champions!
  It might have sounded a simple scenario win and it’s yours but that is never as easy as that. A scrappy contest, a difficult pitch and a competitive Tottenham side who weren’t going to roll over made for a good contest, Baptiste’s superb equaliser making for a nervy end, Taylor’s brace securing the 3 points Brighton needed, they are FAWPL Southern Division Champions. Not only that but will be contesting the FAWPL Play-off match with whoever’s crowned FAWPL Northern Division Champions for a place in the FAWSL on Sunday May 29th. For now thought it’s time to celebrate winning the title and with a few weeks before that match the players can celebrate and let it sink in.
Brighton & Hove Albion WFC celebrating after the final whistle blows
  Thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today. My congratulations to the players, management, coaching staff, volunteers and fans of Brighton & Hove Albion WFC on your title win.

Match Report – West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

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A Tuesday night trip down to the big city for the Supporting Women’s Football Blog a game from the FAWPL Southern Division, West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies. Not just any old league game however but a special occasion for both teams, most so West Ham United Ladies as the match was to be held at The Boleyn Ground, Upton Park. A famous and historic football venue just a handful of games left before West Ham United FC move to the Olympic Stadium. An opportunity for the West Ham United Ladies to don their claret shirts on the hallowed turf, in front of a record crowd too. A great night for all involved click on the link below to take you to the whole match report on the SWF Blog

West Ham United Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

Match Report – Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies

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The featured match report on the Supporting Women’s Football Blog this Sunday comes from Cheshunt FC where FAWPL Southern Division side, Tottenham Hotspur Ladies were taking on FAWSL 2 side Aston Villa Ladies in the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women’s Cup a round away from the sides from FAWSL 1 joining the competition. The home side well into their season 6th placed in the league going have reached 2 cup finals already this season, a huge test for Aston Villa Ladies only now into pre-season with just one competitive match under their belts. For all of the match action, click on the link below to take you to the SWF Blog.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Aston Villa Ladies