Tag Archives: Wroxham Women

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Chelmsford City Women

Sunday 27th October

ERWFL League Cup

A trip to Trafford Park this Sunday to watch a game from the 2nd round of this season’s ERWFL League Cup, Wroxham Women reaching the final last season hosting ERWFL newcomers, Chelmsford City Women making the long trip up to Norfolk from Essex.

  All 36 (now 35) teams across the ERWFL’s 3 divisions contesting the League Cup with those knocked out in the early rounds going on to compete for the League Plate. Wroxham Women one again hoping to go deep into the competition having reached two of the last three League Cup finals. Chelmsford City Women amongst a host of new sides joining the ERWFL this season taking part in the competition for the first time.

  Wroxham Women with a mixed bag of results to start the season winning 2, drawing 2 and losing 2 in the Premier Division, playing catch up with their fixtures too with the club also seeing 2 matches abandoned too. Ambitious Wroxham are aiming to compete at the top of the ERWFL Premier Division on a consistent basis an challenge for promotion to the FAWNL above as well as aiming to go deep into League and County Cup respectfully. Building a strong squad as manager Adam Race begins his 2nd season with the club.

 Hannah Fuller has long been one of the best strikers in the region and already has 10 goals to her name this season from her 8 appearances. Have assembled a squad with a strong blend of youth and experience. Leilah Gooding and Hayley Kindred both with ERWFL experience having played for Needham Market last season. Midfielder, Chloe Shipman an influential player for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women last season as they won promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division in their debut season in tier 6. Rio Dobbie and Poppy Loveland young players with lots of potential. Rebecca (Becca) Russell the latest recruit, knowing several members of the squad from her days at Wymondham comes to the club after a spell with Norwich City Women. Means the two Rebecca Russell’s in Norfolk are now on the same side knew it would happen one day, but one’s always been Becky (Wroxham’s captain now) so that makes life easier for those writing match reports!

 Chelmsford City Women were patient in their ambition to reach the ERWFL, wanting to do so as Essex Premier Division champions. That feat achieved last season after a number of years coming close to achieving that goal. Not only that, a club has to be ready to step up to regional football, there’s alot more to it that having a talented squad, as others have discovered. Dussindale & Hellesdon a good example, ready player wise possibly three season’s ago wanted the behind the scenes set up right too and that has paid off with them winning promotion straight from tier 6 to tier 5. Chelmsford going up as champions followed by a host of Essex sides that sees 8 of the 11 sides competing in the ERWFL Southern Premier Division from the county. 

 Chelmsford City Women fairing the best of the newly promoted sides currently sitting 6th in the Division One South table having played 6, making a losing start bounced back well to win 3 on the bounce to climb up the table, pegged back in recent games with narrow defeats against Hutton and leaders Colney Heath Ladies. Victory in the county cup last weekend travel to Norfolk as the underdogs with a few out through injury. Have signed some valuable experience and quality to their squad with the likes of midfielder Jay Blackie and Zoe Rushen who most recently featured for Billericay Town Women in the FAWNL. Zoe Rushen top scorer so far with 6 goals to her name while Blackie has 4. Broghan Kelly too with 3 goals to her name from the 3 matches she has featured in so far.

 Trafford Park the venue for this afternoon’s cup tie. Chelmsford making the trip up to Norfolk the day before staying overnight an extra hour in bed with the clocks going back. A glorious autumn day, make the most of them while they last. Bright sunshine beginning to sink behind one end of the ground likely to cause a few issues for the side defending at the bottom of the sloping pitch The grass pitch a decent size offering good width. viewing all round with a small seated stand opposite the dugouts and clubhouse beyond, the bar open serving hot and cold drinks. 

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Gambell, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson (C), Poppy Loveland, Jennifer Drummie, Leilah Gooding, Becca Russell, Hayley Kindred, Lucy Eagle & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Becky Russell, Rachel Cossey, Chloe Shipman, Lily Alexander & Lauren Bullard.

Wroxham Women

 Chelmsford City Women starting XI – Hannah Streetley, Shannon Kelly, Kaci Crook, Lauren Butcher, Gaby Freedman (C), Kerry Stimson, Rosie Coe, Jay Blackie, Evie Payne, Ellie Dopson & Zoe Rushen. Subs – Emma Rushen & Heidi Lacey.

Chelmsford City Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains’ Gaby Freedman and Tigi Robson with today’s referee, Michael Clark

  Chelmsford to kick-off the 1st half facing into the sun setting low behind the trees up the opposite end of the ground, with Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams goal already in the shade. The visitors wearing their all claret strip with Wroxham wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The players ready to go, the DJ however not the sound system still blaring out the tunes a quick run to the clubhouse and silence as referee, Michael Clark gets the game underway. The ball fed into the middle put out to the left, Hannah Fuller rushing on to close the ball down for Wroxham, Chelmsford under pressure at the back scramble the ball out to Kaci Crook on the right sends it on for Zoe Rushen pulling onto the wing looks to lay the ball back inside to Crook, Chelsea Clarke nipping in to cut the pass out for Wroxham.

 The hosts looking to turn play around quickly played forwards into Leilah Gooding in the middle sprays the ball out wide to the right wing with Hayley Kindred on the move, Shannon Kelly sliding in to make the tackle for Chelmsford sending the ball out for a throw in. Wroxham squeezing possession in the middle getting the ball out to the right flank, Fuller across to link up with Kindred the ball fizzed into the area, Gooding near side looking to get in down under control get a shot away before being closed down, snatches her shot wide of the right post.

  Clarke getting up on the left for Wroxham on for Lucy Eagle with Fuller pulling into the left channel, the ball into the corner crossed into the box, cleared by Kerry Stimson at the ear post for the visitors. A lively start to the game both sides looking to get forwards quickly. Becca Russell with the diagonal ball out to Kindred looking to get on down the right her cross cut back to the top of the D, Eagle looking to meet in her glancing header turning the ball wide at the far post. 

Wroxham striker, Lucy Eagle

  Ellie Dopson dropping back to help in defence for Chelmsford as Clarke breaks forwards for Wroxham, gets fouled as she looks to shield the ball back to her keeper, Hannah Streetley. Chelmsford get hold of the ball on the right Crook up with Dopson the ball rolled on for Rushen to latch onto right channel as she drives into the area closing in on goal from the angle looks to lift her shot over the keepers head, Williams right behind it plucking the ball down comfortably to make the save. 

 Rushen going down under a heavy challenge in the middle of the park, down in need of treatment looks to have ben caught by a flailing elbow, some concern but after a long pause in play is up and ready to play on. Chelmsford battling for the ball in the middle, Jay Blackie the Rosie Coe with the tackles before Coe releases Crook into space on the right drives forwards checking inside to take aim from 25 yards out sends her strike over the bar. 

  The Chelmsford camera filming the game is nearly killed as Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson comes across to the right to clear the ball ball as Rushen looks to get it under control on the wing, a operator with a good save as the tripod legs get struck . Chelmsford encouraged on the right with Crook and Dopson linking up will with Rushen, Crook on for Rushen wide has Dopson inside her gives her the ball as she drives into the box looking to get in behind the defence, Jennifer Drummie tracking back from midfield sliding in on Dopson with a well timed tackle to send the ball behind for a corner kick.

Chelmsford’s Rosie Coe with Wroxham’s Leilah Gooding

  The corner curled into the near post, Clarke doing the defending for Wroxham. Williams out of her area sharply to get to the ball first ahead of Rushen as she springs the offside trap to run in behind. Chelmsford gaining some momentum asking Wroxham a few questions as Blackie sends the ball into Rushen attacking the box left of goal, forcing the hosts into conceding a corner. The ball once again defended at the near post, by Ella Gambell cleared out of the box, Chelmsford quick to regain possession come right with Crook pushing up her pass fed inside looking for Rushen cut out by Drummie.

Chelmsford’s Zoe Rushen holding of Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

  Robson bringing the ball out from the back for Wroxham looking for Clarke advancing down the wing who in turn feeds it down the line for Eagle, Lauren Butcher coming across from the middle of defence to get across the Wroxham attacker see the ball out safely for a goal kick. Wroxham press players forwards Becca Russel out to the right, Gambell on for Kindred to race after down the flank into the corner, getting inside her marker to send a cross into the near post, Gaby Freedman, captaining Chelmsford up to head the ball clear.

  Both keepers called into action to rush out of their boxes to kick the ball clear as Fuller steals in on the ball at the back for Wroxham, then as the ball is launched clear high over the defence at the other end, Williams needs to react to get to the ball ahead of Rushen. Crook bringing the ball on with pace for Chelmsford right side sending it forwards for Dopson on the wing, checks her run, before sweeping a cross into the box, Poppy Loveland intercepting on the penalty spot for Wroxham, clearing the ball.

  Fuller putting herself about up top for Wroxham, a competitive tie with little quarter given both sides willing to mix things up a few over exuberant challenge being made. Fuller pressuring Streetley on the ball as it is rolled into her inside the six yard box, winning her side a corner kick. The corner played into Gooding top of the area left of goal meets the ball on he volley, sending her first time hit wide of the top left corner. 

Hannah Fuller

Wroxham finding Clarke as she gets up on the left links up with Eagle puling out wide the ball from Eagle played back to Clarke left corner of the area, sweeps a cross into the six yard box, Fuller stooping into the header, planting the ball straight at Streetley the keeper grabbing hold of the ball. Streetley playing the ball short out from her box into her defence sees Fuller reacting smartly to steal in to nab the ball right of goal and power her way into the box, the keeper quickly across her area to throw herself down across the striker block the ball at her feet and pull it safely into her body.

Jennifer Drummie

  Drummie into Becca Russell turns on the ball central to lay it on for Fuller, who looks to send, Kindred away down the left, Freedman with a timely interception for Chelmsford. Clarke taking the ball on down Wroxham’s left wriggling free of a couple of challenges to send a cross into Fuller at the near post back to goal lays it out to the top of the area for Gooding 20 yards out, looks to shift inside to make room for a strike, Coe charging her down for the visitors the ball deflected away for a corner. Curled into the near post and cleared.

  Chelmsford working hard at the back to keep Wroxham out, Stimson throwing herself into block as Eagle lines up a strike from all of 25 yards, the ball coming into her from the left. Chelmsford dealing with a couple of knocks, Rushen from her earlier blow. Blackie in the wars too. Wroxham pressing the ball well getting players up around the 18 yard box forcing a corner on their right. Swung in at the near post, Rushen heading away for Chelmsford this time.

  Fuller fouled out on the left giving Wroxham a free-kick from deep, sent into the top of the area cleared out to the right wing Kindred looking to attack, Evie Payne closing into win the ball back for the visitors. The tackles keep coming in, a competitive tussle in the middle, the referee having a word with Blackie for a foul on Drummie. Coe finding Dopson as she charges forwards on the right for Chelmsford, Clarke getting back at her to get in front of her see the ball back to her keeper. 

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

 Butcher and Fuller are enjoying a good battle as the defender looks to keep tabs on the Wroxham striker. Kindred with a shot from all of 30 yards out as the ball is rolled into her from the right, struck in low on target, Streetley is a tall keeper, throws herself to her right across her goal to make the save. Chelmsford get the ball on through the middle out to Dopson on the right up with Rushen, the ball played into her Robson coming across to close her down appeals for a handball as the Chelmsford attacker looks to spring in behind her, Robson pulling her back aggrieved as the appeals are ignored and Chelmsford win the free-kick, the Wroxham captain going into the book too.

 GOAL! The free-kick in a useful position to the right wide of goal, Rushen over the ball, players coming up from the back, Rushen with a fantastic delivery firing the ball in at the far post corridor asking to be attacked players closing in, Blackie amongst those getting a touch to turn the ball back across the keeper and into the bottom corner to put the visitors into the lead with 5 minutes to play in the first half 0-1.

Jay Blackie congratulated as she fires Chelmsford into the lead

 GOAL! It’s an odd cliché, but you’re never more vulnerable than when you score, straight from the restart Wroxham get the ball out to the right, move the ball sharply before turning it inside straight to Becca Russel unmarked 30 plus yards out central, catches the shot well on the turn sending the ball up over the keeper and under the bar to level the scores with a superb strike 1-1.

Becca Russell striking from distance to put Wroxham quickly back on level terms.

  Play stopped soon after the goal with injury concerns for both Blackie and Rushen who has gone down still suffering from the effects of the heavy challenge early on. Time taken for both Rushen in particular before play goes on. Rushen playing the ball up the right for Dopson to race on up the wing getting inside Clarke to attack the box, Robson with the blocking tackle the ball striking Dopson but rebounding safely through for the keeper to scoop up.

Chelmsford’s Ellie Dopson

Blackie fouling, Gooding in the middle the hosts with a free-kick right of the circle played on down the right for Kindred to sweep a cross in at the near post, Streetley coming to punch the ball out of her box, falls to Clarke 25 yards out central fires her strike over the crossbar. Both sides pushing for a goal at the end of the first half the match end to end, Robson lunging in to challenge Dopson as she attempts to carry it through into the box in the right channel. Rushen holding the ball up turning to release Dopson ahead of her on the right, Robson closing her down before Loveland gets onto the ball attempting to carry it out of the back for the hosts. 

Poppy Loveland

  Clarke getting hold of the ball as Chelmsford give it away at the back coming inside form the left 25 yards out drags her shot wide. Kindred put away down the right for Wroxham by Gambell in the closing seconds of the first half fires a cross into the six yard box, Freedman getting to it ahead of Fuller. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 1-1 Chelmsford City Women

  All square at the break as the sides head into the changing room for the half-time interval. Had written in my notes earlier (if Chelmsford can go into the break level they’ll be the happier of the two sides). As it was they went on to score the opener, only to concede straight away that slightly shifting thing’s in Wroxham’s favour as the Premier Division side have come up against a tenacious opponent. Chelmsford working hard at the back with some useful attacking runs, Dopson and Crook linking up well with Rushen up top creating a couple of chances. That said Wroxham have pressed well as a unit the midfield getting up to support the attack creating opportunities themselves and with some good options to bring on from the bench will be interesting to see if they can find the extra edge in the 2nd half with extra time and penalties if needed to settle the tie.

  Chelmsford out first 2nd half making a change, Zoe Rushen having picked up an injury in the 1st half substituted with Emma Rushen coming on. Wroxham attacking up the slope 2nd half with no changes as the hosts get the 2nd half underway. The ball rolled back into Drummie in the middle laid on for Clarke on the left attacking the by-line Chelmsford defending.

  Emma Rushen fouled as she is backed into as she attempts to hold the ball up to the right of the circle. The ball plays up into the top of the Wroxham area, defended Chelmsford keep possession laying the ball to the right the cross curled into the area by Dopson, hooked clear by Robson. The diagonal ball finding Gambell on the move up Wroxham’s right side, Kelly moving into close her down for Chelmsford. 

Shannon Kelly tackling Wroxham’s Hayley Kindred

 Chelmsford fighting for the ball in the middle of the park Coe knocking it forwards, Blackie bursting after it right of the D, Williams racing out of her area to clear as Gambell looks to get in front of Blackie the keeper, clearing the ball as she slides in but colliding with Gambell in the process both down hurt as Blackie walks away unscathed. Another pause in play as both players are accessed, Gambell up first then Williams both okay to play on.

Wroxham’s Ella Gambell

 

  Both sides looking to make a fast start to the 2nd half passes rushed Kelly sliding in to clear the ball fed up the right channel for Wroxham looks to have fouled Wroxham’s Kindred the winger hurt as she hurdles the challenge, however the decision goes the other way a free-kick to Chelmsford. Kindred hobbling a little but okay to play on.

 Blackie trying her luck from distance sending a looping shot from 30 yards out straight at the keeper.

Chelmsford midfielder, Jay Blackie

 Drummie threading the pass through to Fuller pulling right beating the offside trap to run on into the area wide of goal fires her cross into the six yard box looking for Eagle at the far post, Butcher with a vital interception for the visitors. Wroxham making a double switch early in the 2nd half as they bring off both Gooding and Eagle send on Becky Russell and Lauren Bullard, straight swaps for both with Russell into the middle, Bullard attacking from the left. 

 Wroxham looking to push on get Kindred on the ball central lays it back for Drummie to strike on the run left of goal, fires her low shot wide of the post. Chelmsford pushed back, Coe getting stuck in to help out her defence bring the ball away for the visitors ending it up to Dopson and Rushen up top, Robson winning it back for Wroxham. The ball pinging back and forth as both sides look for the killer pass to send someone in clear to attack the opposing box. 

Becky Russell

  Stimson fouled top of the circle for Chelmsford. Kelly to play the set-piece in towards the top of the area defended by Loveland, the ball out to the right Chelmsford getting hold of it to send a cross back into the area Williams up to claim the ball. Chelmsford frustrating Wroxham battling hard to win the ball pushed deeper, allowing Wroxham’s full backs to push on. Gambell right side up to Becky Russell coming wide for the ball linking up with Fuller the striker turning into the box right off goal closing down the near post firing the ball across the goal, Streetley down to save as Bullard races in at the far post the ball pushed up though, Bullard attempting to reach it sees her shot charged down by Freedman.

Chelmsford captain, Gaby Freedman

  Wroxham knocking on the door ringing the changes as they make a triple switch bringing on Rachel Cossey, Chloe Shipman and Lily Alexander to replace, Loveland, Drummie and Becca Russell. Clarke pushing on up the left flank sweeping a cross into the six yard box, gather by Streetley. Clarke up on the left again to play Bullard onto the ball taking it into the box on the by-line lifts a cross in across goal, cut out and cleared by Butcher for Chelmsford.

  Becky Russell getting hold of the ball for Wroxham lifting the pass on for Clarke out on the left wing sends her cross into the near post dropping into Fuller in front of Streetley the attacker lifting her shot over the bar from close range. 

 Chelmsford making their 2nd change as they relieve Heidi Lacey from her lineswoman duties, bringing off Bishop, goes in to right back. Wroxham with fresh legs on the pitch pressing the advantage getting players on.

GOAL! The substitutions making the difference as Wroxham come on through the middle the ball put on for Kindred on the right lays it forwards for Fuller chasing into the box to the by-line Fuller turns to lay the ball back to Kindred top corner of the area, curls her cross into the mix dropping for Becky Russell on the spot closed down before she can get a shot away Lily Alexander latching onto the ball top of the area rifles a shot in towards goal cannoning off the under side of the crossbar to bounce over the line into the back of the net to put the hosts into the lead 2-1.

Lily Alexander coming off the bench to fire Wroxham into the lead

 Wroxham with the lead 24 minutes into the 2nd half. Alexander off the bench to score. Wroxham quick to regain possession back as Chelmsford drop deep to defend, the ball played up to Fuller sprinting in behind on the right her cross looping into the six yard box, just over Bullard running in to attack central. 

Chelmsford’s Kerry Stimson

  Stimson sliding in to make the challenge is hurt as she goes in to tackle Fuller, top of the area. Up gingerly as Gambell puts, Kindred away on Wroxham’s right her cross cut back inside for Alexander 25 yards out attempts to meet it on the volley hooking the ball goal wards but straight into the arms of Streetley. Chelmsford pushed back tiring as Gambell surges on with the ball laying it on for Fuller taking it to the by-line on the right her cross cut out at the near post by Butcher turned behind for a corner kick.

Wroxham winger, Hayley Kindred

  Gambell sliding in to win the ball back for Wroxham on the right putting it on for Kindred lifting a cross into the box, met by Alexander, heads over. Stimson and Coe fighting for the ball for Chelmsford working hard though the middle, Coe lifting it up to Dopson in attack, has limited options as Robson gets across her to play the ball back for her keeper to clear. 

Kaci Crook challenging Hayley Kindred for the ball

  Clarke out on the left for Wroxham sending a deep cross into the box for Fuller attacking centrally, under challenge from Freedman drags her shot wide of the visitors left post. Wroxham on top as Chelmsford tire pushing their opponents back coming on at will Kindred taking the ball on right knocking the ball into the area, cleared by Freedman. Some late tackles coming in Gambell feeling a couple, then Kindred as the advantage is played on the right, Kelly across to defend for Chelmsford. Into the final 10 minutes. 

GOAL! Wroxham getting bodies up and around the Chelmsford penalty spot the ball knocked out of the area falling to Clarke 25 yards out to the left of the D looks to drag the ball inside for shifting back left and letting loose a strike getting power behind the low shot to send it angling into the bottom right corner to double the hosts lead 3-1.

Chelsea Clarke firing home Wroxham’s 3rd

  Wroxham making a change straight after the goal ending Loveland back on into the back line to replace Robson. Clarke advancing with the ball on the left for Wroxham is tackled well by Chelmsford’s Lacey. Cossey fouled as she looks to bring the ball on for Wroxham through the middle. To the left 30 yards out Clarke to play the set piece up into the top of the area won by Fuller lays it back to Clarke running in on the ball her attempted strike charged down. 

  Kindred putting the ball inside for Cossey as she breaks forwards, Cossey sending it out to Becky Russell on the right flank her cross cut out by Kelly for Chelmsford. Stimson carrying  knock putting her body on the line as she works hard to defend in front of the back line for the visitors as Wroxham push on late in the game looking for another goal. Gambell laying the ball into Alexander 20 yards out looks to turn on the ball drag herself into the box, Butcher moving in to close her down with a well timed tackle.

Wroxham’s Rachel Cossey

  All Wroxham as the hosts push on with less than 5 minutes left to play. Butcher trying to make the ball stick up top for Chelmsford is fouled by Gambell. left of the circle the free-kick played forwards by Kelly, defended by Shipman. Kindred racing away on the right for Wroxham scooping a ball into the area, Stimson stretching managing to get a leg up to hook the ball away from immediate danger. 

Into the closing stages of the tie Wroxham on top Gambell linking up well with Kindred the ball played forwards into Becky Russell coming out to the right side up the line to send a cross into the far post, Lacey defending as she gets in front of Bullard to head the ball clear. The final whistle blows and Wroxham celebrate as they advance in this season’s league cup having overcome a stern test from Chelmsford. 

Full time Wroxham Women 3-1 Chelmsford City Women 

   Wroxham with a strong 2nd half finding the extra edge to overcome their opponents to score twice to advance in the league cup having a strong bench to call upon, manager Adam Race used his substitutes well to find the extra edge to go on to take the lead and secure the win. Pushing players on well as Chelmsford dropped deeper, their options limited through injury and lack of numbers the Essex side nevertheless battled hard throughout. Gave a good account of themselves against higher league opponents. Asking a few questions first half creating opportunities going on to score the opening goal. Unfortunately conceded straight away to lose that advantage. Forced into changes didn’t have the players to refresh things from the bench and as they tired Wroxham were able to press in numbers.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Is a tough one once again even to single out a player from both sides let alone overall but their is one of course. Several performances of note even if so I must give credit to both sides for their all round team performance. Firstly for Chelmsford, Ellie Dopson made some very good attacking runs especially first half linking up well with Kaci Crook and Zoe Rushen who herself found some good pockets of space to exploit before having to come off in the 2nd half. Lauren Butcher with some vital tackles at the back along with Shannon Kelly, while Kerry Stimson and Rosie Coe covered alot of ground attempting to win the ball and get their side moving forwards. Again Wroxham with a strong pressing game as a unit. Hannah Fuller leading the line getting into some great positions bringing other into play. Hayley Kindred attacking on the right using the ball well. Tigi Robson and Poppy Loveland with some good tackles and interceptions at the back. The full backs enjoying a good game Ella Gambell getting in some good tackles as well as collecting a few bruises for her efforts linking up play well. The award going to her opposite  number on the left Chelsea Clarke got forwards well putting some useful balls into the box and scored the 3rd goal to secure the result.

  Good to visit Trafford Park again and to catch up with both sides. Chelmsford said they’d give it a go and certainly did asking Wroxham a few questions, and having waited to make their ERWFL bow are a strong addition to the regional set up. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team line ups today as always is appreciated. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women v Wroxham Women

Sunday 25th August

ERWFL Premier Division

Bank holiday weekend and a trip over to The Nest this Sunday for my first taste of football action from the ERWFL Premier Division, an all Norfolk affair with newly promoted Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women taking on Wroxham Women.

The ERWFL representing tiers 5 and 6 of the women’s football pyramid in the East of England, up to full strength with two Division One’s North and South featured 12 sides apiece all vying for a place in the 12 strong Premier Division. Looks the strongest it ever has been with the talent pool growing in depth and quality throughout the game. Tier 5 onwards and the step up in quality becomes ever steeper.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women one of a number of county league sides applying for promotion to the ERWFL the season before last. Made sure thing’s were in place behind the scenes before making the move and it certainly paid off with a young talented squad more or less at the top of Division One North all season, enjoyed a tight race for the title with another newly promoted side, Hertfordshire’s Harpenden Town Women. Edging them to the title by a single point. From county football to step 5 in two season’s, have always said this is a huge jump up.

A baptism of fire for Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women on the opening day, doesn’t come much tougher than a away trip to play Haringey Borough Women who are amongst the favourites for the Premier Division title this season. Proved to be a tough game with Haringey powering into a 6 goal lead at half-time. A goal back for Dussindale & Hellesdon in the 2nd half eventually going down 8-1. Now with their first home fixture of the campaign will be looking to put thing’s right albeit with another challenge from Wroxham. Have brought in a number of new faces to bolster the squad ahead of the Premier Division season. 8 in all including, Ellen Piggott, Kyla Langan, Ella Kruez. Holly Walker comes into the club having played for Wroxham previously. Jess Harper joins having previously played for Norwich City Women. Defender Rachel Jermy joins after an impressive debut season with Mulbarton Wanderers Women along with twins Lily-Ann and Anais Winney who gained valuable experience with then FAWNL side Cambridge City Women.

Wroxham Women are a long established side within the ERWFL Premier Division, keen to push on an challenge for the title and with it promotion to the FAWNL above, but with one place up for grabs winning the league is far from easy. Adam Race begins his second season in charge off the back of a 5th placed finish along with reaching the finals of both the County and League Cup.

The squad trimmed down with a few departures over the summer including striker Luci Middleton retiring from the game and Lara Densley going back to Norwich after an impressive season playing for Wroxham. However retain a strong core of experienced players and have added 5 new faces to the bring depth to the squad. Midfielder, Chloe Shipman played a vital role in Dussindale & Hellesdon’s promotion last season, comes into Wroxham off the back of those performances. Leilah Gooding previously with Norwich, joins having had a spell at fellow ERWFL Premier Division side Needham Market Women. Also joining from Needham Market attacker, Hayley Kindred. Poppy Loveland from Mulbarton and Rio Dobbie form North Walsham, two young players with lots of potential.

The Nest, a community footballing facility newly built in Horsford on the outskirts of Norwich home to both Norwich City Women and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. An ever growing site close to the airport to the north of the city. With Norwich also at home today, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women are playing Wroxham on the new Lauren Hemp Community 3G pitch before the main pitch. Opened by Lauren Hemp herself just last month. The pitch offering viewing along one side and goal end. Supporters able to visit the café for hot and cold food and drinks. After a rain filled day on Saturday, the weather much more pleasant today bright albeit with some dark clouds around but no rain forecast a strong breeze blowing across the pitch likely to cause issues during the game.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women starting XI – Tyla Cole, Rachel Bussey, Ellen Piggott, Jess Harper (C), Addi Gregory, Lily-Ann Winney, Kari Kowalcyzk, Holly Walker, Rosie George, Alisha Juby & Anais Winney. Subs – Siesha Humphries, Izzy Noakes, Ella Kreuz, Shanice Sutton & Sofia Odell.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Ella Gambell, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson (C), Breanna Rudd, Chloe Shipman, Rachel Cossey, Lily Alexander, Rio Dobbie, Hayley Kindred & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Lucy Eagle & Poppy Loveland.

Wroxham Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Today’s captain’s Jess Harper and Tigi Robson with the match officials

  Both sides missing several key players through unavailability and injury. Dussindale & Hellesdon without their 1st choice centre backs captain, Calista Tink and Jess Barnes. Wroxham with a few out with longer term injuries including their captain, Becky Russell and defender Albany Hodgson. Midfielder Jennifer Drummie out since March though is close to making her return. The wind is certainly stronger a kick-off approaches, Wroxham to take the kick-off 1st half will attack with the wind at their back wearing their away colours, mint coloured shirts with black sleeve and shoulders with black shorts and socks. Dussindale & Hellesdon wearing their all claret home kit. The ball rolled back to Lily Alexander in midfield plays it into her right back, Ella Gambell, the visitors patient keeping the ball at the back, captain Tigi Robson threading a pass into Chloe Shipman in the middle looks to drive forwards, tackled by captain, Jess Harper at the back for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Wroxham quick to regain possession lift the ball out to the right with Hayley Kindred on the move, takes the ball down the line whipping a cross in on the angle the ball inches over the crossbar. Chelsea Clarke coming on from left back for Wroxham tracking inside before laying the ball on for striker Hannah Fuller pulling wide into the left channel, her cross put back in along the top of the area cut out by Dussindale & Hellesdon’s, Addi Gregory.

The hosts look to launch their first attack, Harper into Kari Kowalcyzk with Lily-Ann Winney pushing on through the middle, Rachel Cossey getting her foot on the ball to get Wroxham back on the offensive. A little congested in the middle, not alot of room to get hold of the ball both sides snapping at each other. Wroxham winning a throw on the left as Rachel Bussey steps in to take the ball away from Rio Dobbie. Played inside Alexander turns powering her way infield 25 yards out puts her foot through the ball her effort wind assisted flying up over the bar.  Wroxham looking to impose themselves on the game early on getting forwards with the ball.

Wroxham’s Lily Alexander

Attacking down the left Clarke on for Dobbie on the in sends the pass forwards into Fuller turning on the by-line to fire a cross in along the face of goal, cut out at the far post, turned into the top of the six yard box, Kindred is looking to latch onto the ball, getting taken out by an outstretched foot as she does, the referee pointing to the spot Penalty!

GOAL! Kindred picking herself up to take the penalty kick. Hits it well low and hard to race into the bottom left corner giving the keeper no chance as she celebrates her first Wroxham goal. 0-1. Wroxham with the lead inside 6 minutes.

Hayley Kindred sends Wroxham into an early lead from the spot

GOAL! No sooner have Wroxham taken the lead they double their advantage getting down the other end to win a corner kick on the left, Kindred coming over to play the ball into the area curled into the six yard box a mix up in the middle seeing the ball go all the way in at the far post 0-2.

Hayley Kindred is congratulated as she doubles Wroxham’s lead

Two goals for Hayley Kindred

Two goals in 3 minutes to see Wroxham gain control of the match. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking for at outlet up top play the ball over the top into space on the left, Rosie George bursting forwards, Clarke coming across brings her down outside the area top corner earning herself the first booking of the game. Harper coming up from the back to take the free-kick, strikes the ball in towards the near post, Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams right behind it taking the ball low into her body as she drops forwards.

Anais Winney closing down Robson at the back on the right side, steals possession to run in behind attack the area, goes early with her angled shot 20 yards out , looping doesn’t have the height to trouble the keeper, Williams with the easy catch. Gambell into Cossey, played right for Kindred to attack, charging down the wing drives into the box, Ellen Piggott timing her tackle well to deny the shooting chance the ball behind for a corner kick.

The delivery floated into the six yard box, cleared out to the top of the area straight to Alexander left of the D, puts her foot throw the ball her strike racing wide through the crowd behind past the far post. Clarke left putting the ball on into Fuller up to left channel, has Alexander making an overlapping run lays the ball on for her, the cross flung into the near post cleared by Harper for a throw in.

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women captain, Jess Harper

The wind definitely favouring Wroxham n the 1st half, particularly from corners, see another inviting curled delivery from the left fall narrowly wide of the far post. The next opportunity swung in towards goal crashing out off the crossbar. Gambell  bringing the ball on down the right, tackled by Piggott, Shipman quickly regaining possession putting it cross-field into Dobbie, has Clarke racing past her on the overlap wanting the ball closing in on the by-line her cross caught in the wind flying to the far post, Fuller rising can’t quite get her head on the ball. George having picked up a knock for Dussindale & Hellesdon is replaced by Izzy Noakes.

Lily-Ann Winney with Chloe Shipman

Alisha Juby with the ball at her feet on the drive through the middle for Dussindale & Hellesdon attempts to thread the pass in behind for Walker, intercepted by centre back Breanna Rudd for Wroxham. Wroxham comfortable at the ball, Dussindale & Hellesdon moving the ball quickly but cramped up for space, with Alexander, Cossey and Shipman closing it down in the middle for Wroxham. Is space in behind with Wroxham pushing up it’s a case of whether Dussindale & Hellesdon can pick out the pass, they do with a good diagonal ball out to the left for Walker to run onto the winger on the move taking they ball on into the area rapidly closing down the six yard box, goes to pull the trigger, Robson diving in to charge the attempt down force it behind for a corner kick.

Tigi Robson moving across to close down Holly Walker as she bears down on goal

The corner from the left swung in towards the near post over everyone attacking that side drops to Robson beyond to clear safely at the far post.

Wroxham captain, Tigi Robson

GOAL! Just as Dussindale & Hellesdon get an opportunity at one end they are hit on the counter attack the ball cleared into midfield played forwards into the box right post side cut out, Fuller nipping in to get hold of the ball lashes it home from six yard out to make it 3! 0-3.

Hannah Fuller latching onto the ball inside the box to turn and score

Almost a half hour played in the 1st half Wroxham with a 3 goal advantage, work for Dussindale & Hellesdon to do, Lily-Ann Winney finding Noakes on the right wing pushes on has good support from Anais Winney, look to play a one two expose Clarke as they turn the full back, Clarke though is one on the best full backs in the league and reads the pass to halt the attack.

Chelsea Clarke

Kindred has Fuller up with her on the right feeding the striker the ball, Fuller gets down the line to win a corner kick. Curled in across the six yard box comes all the way through to Robson at the far post her stooping header put back in towards goal, Cole right behind it to save for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Another change for Dussindale with Siesha Humphries on at the back in place of Piggott.

Wroxham’s Rachel Cossey

Fuller brought down on halfway winning Wroxham a free-kick. Clarke over the ball sends it long into Kindred attacking the right post, Cole with a sharp save down to get a glove on the ball turn it away from goal. Harper playing the ball out to Noakes on the right, Anais Winney making a run into the right channel ahead of her wanting the past played in behind, Noakes attempted through ball cut out by Robson. Dobbie seeing the ball into her feet on Wroxham’s left comes inside, Bussey coming back at her to put in the challenge, wins the free-kick as Dobbie comes back after the ball.

Alexander travels out to the left with the ball, Dobbie racing on down to the by-line wanting the pass, Bussey tracking back with her to win the tackle, the ball away for a throw in. Wroxham pressing late in the first half, Fuller 30 yards out right of the D, has Dobbie in ahead of her lays the ball forwards Dobbie striking the ball low and hard from outside the box, Cole with a fantastic save, getting down to glove the ball behind for a corner kick.

Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole

Curled into the mix from the right, dropping down outside the six yard box, Kowalcyzk looks to bring it away for Dussindale & Hellesdon. Wroxham quick to get the ball back find Kindred out on the right pressing forwards stopped by Humphries. Kindred receiving the ball from the resulting throw in spinning inside from the right striking the ball on the angle the effort crashing into the side netting. The visitors pushing hard for a 4th goal late on attacking through the middle Cossey with Shipman forwards for Alexander to the right of the D, 25 yards out unleashes a strike, Cole with another vital save diving to her left to push the ball away from her goal.

Half-time Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 0-3 Wroxham Women

  Wroxham end the first half in a strong position leading 3-0. Have been strong on the ball right from the off, the wind at their backs aiding their play at times, taking an early lead from the penalty spot quickly adding a 2nd goal to put Dussindale & Hellesdon on the back foot. Play often congested in the middle of the park Wroxham pressing pushing their opponents back the hosts have struggled to get the ball into their attackers impose any pressure of their own. Alot of work to do if they are to find a way back into the game, will have the win advantage 2nd half will be interesting to see if they can make it count.

Dussindale & Hellesdon making a double switch at the start of the 2nd half bringing on Ella Kreuz and Sofia Odell in place of Kowalcyzk and Williams. The hosts getting the 2nd period underway the ball put back into midfield, Wroxham move in to press, play stifled in the middle of the park. The ball eventually clipped long out to the right for Noakes, Clarke seeing it safely out of play. 

Izzy Noakes

  Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to be positive winning a free-kick inside the Wroxham half from deep Harper floats the ball up into the box seen behind by the Wroxham defence for a corner. Curled in across the six yard box from the left, through everyone out beyond the far post for a goal kick. 

 Shipman bombs on from midfield to the left looking to combine with Kindred the ball knocked forwards, Humphries in with a firm challenge to slow the ball down, Harper coming across to hold it up and launch clear. Humphries bringing some energy onto the pitch on the left for Dussindale & Hellesdon getting stuck in and taking the ball forwards, running into a challenge wins her side a free-kick, 30 yards out to the left of the box. Harper on it lifts the set-piece high in towards goal. Williams back on her line keeping her eye on it claims cleanly.

  Wroxham press the attack the ball cleared at the back, Clarke latches onto it 25 yards out in a central position striking the ball is over the bar. not by much as it lands on the roof of the net. Dussindale & Hellesdon looking to be more competitive getting stuck in trying to regain possession both sides giving fouls away. Robson breaking from the back with the ball at her feet for the visitors moving into the right channel prods it wide for Dobbie, Bussey winning the challenge for Dussindale & Hellesdon.

Rio Dobbie and Rachel Bussey

Alexander bringing the ball left combines with Clarke and Dobbie as they move up the wing, Alexander with the ball again to send a cross in low towards Fuller poised on the penalty spot, Gregory covering though the defender in front of the attacker to cut the ball out and clear. Gambell breaking away on the right for Wroxham receiving the ball the middle as she runs inside from 25 yards out, a wild swing at the ball sees her screw her effort wide.

Lily Alexander

  Wroxham making a double switch as they prepare to bring on Poppy Loveland and Lucy Eagle, Alexander and Dobbie the players coming off. Shipman playing the ball to Fuller up top outside the box knocks it down off her head to Kindred running on down the right wing whips her cross into the box, across the top of the six yard box just over Eagle as she runs in to attack it.

 Gambell sending the ball up the right for Loveland plays it forwards looking to release Kindred in behind, Harper racing across to lunge in win the ball out behind for a corner kick. Harper on hand to block as shot from outside the box by Clarke as the full back receive the cut back from Kindred on her right 25 yards out. 

  Little for Anais Winney to feed on up top, hasn’t stopped her trying to get after the ball, forces an error at the back as she charges down the keeper as Williams goes to kick the ball clear top of her box, striking Winney it rebounds behind, however his cleared behind for a corner before she can capitalise. Swung in low from the left the ball is defended at the near post. 

 Wroxham launch a quick counter Shipman bringing the ball on lifted up towards the top of the box, Dussindale & Hellesdon stretched as Fuller breaks in behind stretching to get her foot on the ball, falling forwards even as Cole saves with her legs the ball loose rebounding back towards the attacker Fuller lunges forwards trying to get to the ball brushes her head even as Humphries comes diving in herself to try and clear the pair colliding heads, in the immediate aftermath with both players down their is a little confusion however it’s another penalty!

 Before it can be taken though both players are in some discomfort and their treatment is the priority, Fuller slowly back up the first to her feet, Humphries has come off the worse an icepack strapped to her head she can’t continue and is helped off the pitch with Piggott back on.

  GOAL! A long pause between the penalty award and play resuming it’s Gambell placing the ball down on the spot. No fuss a low hard strike into the bottom left corner sending the keeper the wrong way to extend the advantage 0-4.

Ella Gambell firing home Wroxham’s 2nd penalty to make it 4-0

 The 4th goal coming midway through the 2nd half Wroxham with possession attacking on the left Eagle after ball Bussey closing her down the pair com together, Bussey coming off the worse appears to come down hard hurting her back in the process. Play stopped immediately the physio on, alot of concern. So much so an off duty paramedic is found inside the ground and calls an ambulance for the stricken player. Unable to be move until medics arrive the decision and it is the correct one is taken to abandon the match with 69 minutes played.

Game abandoned in the 69th minute 

Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women 0-4 Wroxham Women at the time.

 Player safety is of paramount importance at the end of the day. You go out there to play and enjoy the game the last thing anyone wants to see is a serious injury occur, but it will sadly from time to time. Wish Rachel Bussey all the very best hoping the injury is not as serious as it appears and for a full and speedy recovery.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  No Player of the Match award this Sunday, just a few performances to highlight. Some fantastic saves from Dussindale & Hellesdon goalkeeper, Tyla Cole. Jess Harper making some vital challenges and clearances at the back. Rachel Bussey too dealt with the threat on Wroxham’s left well with Chelsea Clarke supporting Rio Dobbie. For Wroxham, Clarke was superb in defence and getting forwards supporting and encouraging Dobbie. Lily Alexander made some fantastic runs created opportunities too. Tigi Robson solid at the back winning the ball and timing her tackles.

 My thanks to both sides for their assistance today. A challenging day in the finish on a sad ending. Chances are the game will have to be replayed but that is for a committee to decide. Credit to everyone at The Nest for the support and help in dealing with the incident and let’s hope for good news.

*UPDATE* Pleased to say Rachel has suffered no lasting damage and after a short period of rest and recovery will be back playing football.

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Real Bedford Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 19th May

ERWFL League Cup Final

Onto the 2nd final of the day from Newmarket Town FC’s, Tristal Stadium, hosting this season ERWFL finals day, an all Premier Division clash for the League Cup, Wroxham Women taking on champions, Real Bedford Ladies, looking to win an impressive treble in their first season playing under their new banner.

The League Cup contested by all the clubs across the 3 divisions in the ERWFL, a Division One North and South (tier 6) feeding into a 12 strong Premier Division (tier 5). Often featuring some highly competitive matches with alot of talent on display, The League Cup Final itself no less so.

This afternoon’s prize

Real Bedford FC owned by Peter McCormack, bringing the Bedford Ladies side already competing in the ERWFL Premier Division in to the club becoming Real Bedford Ladies this season retaining their league status, Dean Perrett initially brought in as first team manager the club signing on a host of ne players with experience playing in the ERWFL and the FAWNL above. Indeed hit the ground running winning to go top of the Premier Division and stay there all season 15 straight wins in the league. Perrett moving on, with assistant Georgia Clarke heading up the side for the rest of the season. Their first defeat coming at home to FAWNL side Billericay Town Women in the FA Cup. Haringey Borough Women finally ending their 100% record with a strong 1st half performance (happened to be the two games I attended).

That did little to dent the charge to the Premier Division title secured with a 3-2 win against local rivals Luton Town Ladies, the league title secured and with it promotion to the FAWNL. Soon becoming a league and cup double as Real Bedford continued where Bedford Ladies has previously been on several occasions winning the Bedfordshire Women’s County Cup. League results tailing away at the end of the season, the job done however have one more game to play to achieve a historic treble. Natasha Fensome always prolific in front of goal for Bedford, once again top scorer netting 33 goals so far this campaign with new signings, Francesca Partridge and Gemma Croucher on 23 an 19 respectfully with 16 different scorers amongst the squad.

Wroxham Women securing a 5th placed finish in the ERWFL Premier Division this season, the first in charge for new manager, Adam Race, joining the club from Long Stratton Women. The Norfolk club under going another small period of transition have brought in players with plenty of ERWFL experience to build up a squad with a good blend of talent as they look to challenge at the top of the league. Success too in the cup competition’s not only reaching the League Cup final, but the final of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the first time.

That at the start of a busy week for the club on Monday evening the squad getting to play under the lights at Norwich City’s, Carrow Road Stadium. Losing in the end to a strong Norwich City Women’s side. Injuries not helping to key players at the business end of the season, need to regroup and focus on today’s game. One of those injured out for the County Cup final striker Hannah Fuller one of the leading scorers in the county often top scorer wherever she’s been and so too this season netting 25 goals. Lara Densley enjoying a good campaign with 10 goals to her name as does Luci Middleton the attacker joining Race from Long Stratton where she was the top scorer in Division One last season with 35 goals.

Road to the Final

 A bye for both sides in the 1st Round of the competition. Real Bedford at home in the 2nd Round taking on Division One North and fellow Bedfordshire side, Wootton Blue cross Lionesses. Starting the season strong that form continuing into the League Cup, Neve Mayes and Natasha Fensome both scoring a brace, with goal each for Chloe Martin and Erin Price in a 6-1 win. Wroxham making the long trip down to South Essex to play Division One South newcomers, Southend United Ladies, amongst the goals too with Holly Connell bagging herself a brace there were goals too for Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Hannah Fuller and Keela Olive the score 6-1.

Into the 3rd Round, Real Bedford staying in Bedfordshire away to fellow Premier Division side, AFC Dunstable Ladies. Goals from Fensome and Gemma Croucher securing a 2-0 to send them into the quarter finals. Wroxham at home taking on fellow Norfolk side and Division One North leaders, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women, their opponents showing great form, Wroxham taking their chances however to secure a comfortable 5-1 win. Hannah Fuller bagging a hat-trick with a goal apiece for Ella Gambell and captain, Becky Russell.

Real Bedford at home in the last 8, Watford Ladies Development leading Division One South, like Real Bedford with a 100% start to the season. The gulf between the sides soon apparent and Real Bedford raced into a commanding lead racking up a double figure score line. Fensome netting 4 goals with Francesca Partridge firing home a hat-trick. There were braces too for Mayes and Croucher the final score 11-2. Wroxham staying in Norfolk a trip to Mulberry Park to play Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies newly promoted to the ERWFL. A tricky opponent, Wroxham getting the only goal of the game in the 2nd half, vice captain, Tigi Robson’s goal sending them into the semi-finals.

Real Bedford coming up against their Bedfordshire rivals all the way through their League Cup run drawn away to fellow Premier Division side and potential league rivals, Luton Town Ladies. Looked to be a close game on the cards and proved so on the day, Andie Dickens scoring for Luton, but a goal in each half for Fensome and Chloe Martin was enough to send Real Bedford into the League Cup final. Wroxham having home advantage in their semi final tie, taking on Hertfordshire side Stevenage FC Women, Stevenage scoring twice, Hannah Fuller with 2 goals for Wroxham seeing the sides all square after 90 minutes to head into extra-time, Fuller going on to complete her hat-trick to send Wroxham through to today’s final.

In need of food during the break between game, headed to the kitchen hatch to order a double cheeseburger. As you know I do like a cheeseburger and know a good one when I taste one have to say Newmarket’s offering is right up there with the best. Fuelled up and ready to go for the 2nd game, a walk round the pitch the sun bright the temperature in the early twenties. Great weather for the final, the crowd building nicely.

Real Bedford Ladies

Real Bedford Ladies starting XI – Destiny Pap, Amy Reed, Lisa Milliken, Gemma Franklin, Sophie Mulvihill, Georgie Giddings, Gemma Croucher, Erin Price, Amber Smith, Francesca Partridge & Natasha Fensome (C). Subs – Sophie Billing, Neve Mayes, Chloe Martin, Izzy Crooks & Lauren Coppin.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Albany Hodgson, Lauren Kett, Rachel Cossey, Becky Russell (C), Lily Alexander, Ella Gamble, Lara Densley & Luci Middleton. Subs – Tigi Robson, Lauren Bullard, Lucy Eagle and Hannah Fuller.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 

Captain’s Natasha Fensome and Becky Russell with today’s match officials

 Players out for both sides, captain Zara Carroll missing for Real Bedford, her set plays offering another dynamic to their play. Without goalkeeper Sarah Hudson too, Destiny Pap usually an attacking winger by trade has 5 goals for the Reserves this season keeping goal in recent games. Wroxham with injury problems late in the season missing midfielder Jennifer Drummie, Hannah Fuller out for the County Cup final on Monday makes the bench this time around. Both with attacking options to bring on from the bench.

  Wroxham with the kick-off in the first half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Real Bedford lined up opposite wearing amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. Played back to Chelsea Clarke, lifted across field to the right, Lara Densley looking to attack, Lisa Milliken in to challenge for Real Bedford, played into Natasha Fensome captaining the side today, gets on the move, Lily Alexander across to close her down.

  Wroxham pick out Ella Gambell coming inside from the right up with Luci Middleton in attack linking up the ball rolled out to Densley on the right plays it back inside to Gambell 25 yards out, she shot blocked by Real Bedford’s Gemma Franklin. Fensome making a positive start to the game looking to run into the channels take on the Wroxham defence coming left drives on with the ball checking inside into the top corner of the box unleashes a shot rising for the top corner Bryony Williams covering her near post throwing a glove up to push the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

  GOAL! Players up into the box as Lisa Milliken prepares to fire in the corner, curled into the six yard box, Wroxham look to head it clear, only to see the ball driven into the back of their own net, to concede an own goal inside the opening 3 minutes 0-3.

  Real Bedford lively at the start Georgie Giddings getting stuck in in the middle to win the ball on for Gemma Croucher played through to Fensome up top looks to angle her pass right into the path of Amber Smith racing on down the flanks, Wroxham holding their line catching her offside. Amy Reed closing down Gambell as she attacks on the left the ball put into the middle for Erin Price who is fouled the free-kick on halfway launched up towards the area, headed clear by Wroxham defender, Albany Hodgson.

Amy Reed

   Real Bedford find Fensome central, clips the ball on into the box giving chase left of goal, Williams out smartly to slide in grab the ball into her body. A lively opening 5 minutes Real Bedford pressing well, Fensome’s runs causing issues. Leah Newcombe at right back for Wroxham sending the ball on for Densley attacks on the wing putting it inside to Middleton, turns looking to fight her way through into the box, Sophie Mulvihill in to close her down for Real Bedford. 

  Milliken playing the ball on for Fensome to gather on the left makes a surging run forwards, getting inside the box, Hodgson on her shoulder looking to hold her off, Fensome gets a shot away sending the ball across the goal wide past the far post. 

Real Bedford captain, Natasha Fensome

  Rachel Cossey with the ball for Wroxham in the middle out to Gambell left sprays the ball long out to the right for Newcombe making her way forwards, sends it down the line for Middleton pulling wide to receive, Milliken getting across the attacker to see the ball out for a goal kick. Fensome a threat whenever she has the ball at her feet driving forwards prepared to take on players, Wroxham forced to drop back to defend. Francesca Partridge turning on the ball sweeps the pass out to Fensome on the left, Newcombe doing enough to put the attacker off see the ball run out of play. 

  Wroxham finding Densley up on the right, Middleton coming to offer support, Franklin doubling up with Milliken prevents the cross coming in. Wroxham regain possession central flighted on down the right with Densley still forwards fires the cross into the box, Reed tackling, Gambell on the penalty spot to deny her the shooting chance.

Real Bedford clearing the ball up to the left, Partridge looking to cause havoc get control of the bouncing ball inside Kett turns in field, Hodgson holds her ground turning to shield the ball Partridge clattering into her shoulder, left in a heap on the ground. Needs lengthy treatment a head injury, has to come off, will be sporting a nasty looking black eye later on. Real Bedford sending on Sophie Billing to join the attack on the left. Fensome looking to attack the resulting free-kick wins Real Bedford a corner on the left, the delivery curled in over the cross bar.  

  GOAL! 20 minutes played Real Bedford in possession central Giddings out to Smith right put back inside for Croucher to lift out to the left with Billing attacking on the wing sends her cross in blocked by Newcombe at close range, appeals for handball and the referee points to the spot! Penalty! Croucher lacing the ball on the spot and makes no mistakes sending the keeper the wrong way drilling it into the left side of goal to double the lead 2-0.

Gemma Croucher doubling Real Bedford’s lead from the penalty spot.

Wroxham get the ball up the right, Middleton up with Densley winning their side a corner kick. The ball put in close to the near post defended by Price put out for a 2nd corner. This delivery curled in central Pap on her line reacting instinctively knocking the ball up into the air, her defence scrambling it away to the right a high ball put back into the mix dropping to Alexander beyond the far post looks to head it back in across the penalty spot just over Middleton, the Real Bedford defence clearing the danger.

Ella Gambell looking to take the ball on for Wroxham

  Midway through the first half a drinks break called. Gambell seeing the ball into her feet left coming infield looking for Middleton up top, Franklin nipping in ahead of her to steal the ball. Middleton working hard up top to get across the back line supporting Densley on the right Real Bedford working just as hard to prevent the cross. 

 Clarke sending the ball into the middle for Russell, Wroxham’s captain playing the pass into Middleton up top has Alexander up with her central lays the ball into her then out to Gambell wide left her cross launched into the box too close to the keeper, Pap claiming the ball. 

 Real Bedford played on Fensome plays in cross the pitch to Smith on the right who in turn drops it into the middle for Price free 25 yards out top of the D, goes to put her foot through the ball, misses her kick, Cossey snatching it away to safety. Reed bombing on right side goes past Smith on the over lap bursting into the box, Gambell tracking back with her getting a toe on the ball to prod it back to her keeper, Williams kicking it clear.

  Fensome tricky to pick up as she’s constantly pulling of one defender or another, think you’ve got her then she’s gone. linking up well with Smith looking to get on down the right her cross lifted into the box, over Fensome making a central run. Croucher onto the ball central releases a shot from all of 30 yards out her effort straight at the keeper. Newcombe the furthest forwards for Wroxham on the right flagged offside as Densley plays the ball into Gambell 25 yards out looks to put the full back away down the line.

  GOAL! Real Bedford turn play around quickly lifted out to Fensome on the move up the left wing drives on pace, whips a dangerous ball in across the face of the Wroxham goal, Smith running in unchecked at the far post burying her header into the roof of the net 3-0.

Amber Smith roars in celebration as she heads Real Bedford into a 3 goal lead.

  Real Bedford scoring at regular intervals, making Wroxham’s efforts look laboured as a response, Fensome’s runs causing problems, 12 minutes left to play in the first half. Real Bedford winning the ball at the back Price up to Croucher shoots 25 yards out, on target but lacking the pace to trouble Williams as she moves across her goal to catch the ball. Wroxham feeling aggrieved decisions not going their way, Middleton brought down having a word with the referee.

Gemma Franklin

 GOAL! Real Bedford through the middle Giddings on for Croucher up to Fensome in attack drops her shoulder to break into the box central in behind, Williams racing out to close her down goes to ground, Fensome knocking the ball out of the keepers path to the left to round her and slot the ball into the back of the empty net 4-0.

Natasha Fensome getting her goal to put Real Bedford 4 up

  Wroxham pushing on getting the ball on central Gambell coming inside up to Middleton back to Alexander who shoots from range her effort not troubling Pap. The referee stopping play wanting to talk with Gambell and her captain, as the wide player vocally complains about the decision making. 

 

  Russell on the ball for Wroxham out to Densley right, Franklin sliding in playing the ball off Densley for a free kick. Price playing the ball to Billing on the left, Milliken going past her on the overlap the ball rolled into her path crosses into the box, Hodgson clearing at the near post. The ball back with Real Bedford on the left, Fensome coming to receive the ball lifted into the area, Kett the defender under it for Wroxham this time.

Wroxham’s Lauren Kett

 Into first half stoppage time Wroxham vexed as they concede another free-kick on half way to the left, launched up into the top of the area, Williams comes for it gloves up eyes on the ball, Fensome looking to run in see it over her shoulder, clattering into the keeper, unintentional, Williams going down does well to keep hold of the ball as play is stopped immediately so she can receive treatment A blow to the chest looks to be winded more than anything else need a few minutes to recover. Clarke getting on up the left with Gambell for Wroxham but Real Bedford close in leaving no way through as the whistle blows to bring the half to an end.

 Half-time Real Bedford Ladies 4-0 Wroxham Women

 Real Bedford head into the changing rooms, in control of the game with a healthy 4 goal lead. Scoring early and at regularly slots during the first half have looked a constant threat going forwards while limiting Wroxham’s opportunities up the other end. Wroxham stay out on the field gather on the pitch have a mountain to climb if they are to get back into the match. Hannah Fuller warming up hard before the break looks to be coming on. Clarke the player taken off. Tigi Robson on too for Cossey.

 Real Bedford to get the 2nd half underway, put out to the left, Wroxham see the ball out of play. The throw played inside to Giddings, Russell stepping in to steal the ball rolls it back into the defence for Kett to clear. 

Georgie Giddings

  Fuller seeing the ball into her feet turns inside looking to release Newcombe as she attacks down the right, Billing stretching out a leg t intercept the ball puts it into Milliken’s path the defender fouled as she looks to carry the ball forwards. 

 

  A competitive start to the second half Wroxham looking to close the ball down, win a free-kick on half way. Hodgson over the ball floated up into the box, Franklin under it knocking the ball up into the air, dropping right post Pap under it to make the catch. Fuller bringing a different dimension to Wroxham’s play straight away her presence alone giving her side confidence as she takes the ball into the box right side squares it central looking for Middleton closed down squeezes it out to Gambell on the left, Real Bedford shielding the ball out for a throw.

Wroxham striker, Hannah Fuller.

  Fensome ready to make her move whenever Real Bedford have possession, the ball rolled into her turns it to the left for Billing, drives on stopped by Hodgson. Gambell determined on the ball pushing inside from the left fires the ball into Densley, Milliken challenging to in the ball back for Real Bedford. 

Lisa Milliken

 Smith racing away down the right wing for Real Bedford in behind to send a cross into the box, Fensome overcooking her far post run the ball whipping behind her then cleared. Real Bedford defending a 4 goal lead can sit back a little pick their moments to break forwards the ball with Giddings in the middle played on for Croucher outside the box makes a run across the D, cutting her shot back in towards goal, Williams down low to push the ball behind for a corner kick. Put long to the far post Wroxham dealing with it Gambell fouled as she looks to bring the ball out.

Ella Gambell

  GOAL! Gambell fouled again in a much more dangerous are as she drives inside from the left, taken out outside the area 25/30 yards from goal. Standing over the ball with Russell, as the whistle blows Russell runs in to strike the ball angled in on target fizzed in at Pap back on her line hitting her looping up Pap can’t get hold of it as it loops up over her into the back of the net beyond 4-1. A goal back for Wroxham.

Wroxham scoring from the free-kick

Wroxham captain Becky Russell

The game restarts in the middle but is soon stopped with Pap down inside her box, Russell’s strike looking to have struck her in the face is a long pause in play but thankfully she is up back on her feet and able to continue. Wroxham putting the Real Bedford defence under pressure winning a corner on the left played in across the six yard line nocked back across goal to the left side falls straight to Kett who lifts her attempt on goal over the bar.

  GOAL! Wroxham pushing on down the left Fuller taking the ball to the by-line check back up the line turning into the box left corner to flash a cross into the middle, Middleton up with a defender near side making minimal contact, enough to deflect it on into the path of Alexander free to the right to rifle her shot past the keeper into the back of the net and score. 4-2.

Lily Alexander scoring Wroxham’s 2nd goal

  Two goal in 7 minutes Wroxham looking to get themselves back into the game ask Real Bedford a few questions. Wroxham finding an extra gear getting forwards well Fuller making the ball stick up top, Mulvihill getting a foot in to take the ball off the striker as she looks to drop her shoulder inside the D. 

Real Bedford’s Sophie Mulvihill

  Real Bedford still carrying plenty of threat in attack the ball played out to Billing on the left powers forward her cross claimed at the near post by Williams. Some of the decisions continue to vex Wroxham, Kett pulling up with a knock another pause while she receives treatment. Smith attacking down the right her cross blocked back to her puts it inside for Croucher out to Billing on the left her high ball into the box has Fensome interested, however Williams keeps her eye on the ball taking it cleanly above her head. 

Real Bedford attacker, Sophie Billing

  Middleton coming off for Wroxham with 20 minutes of regular play left, Lauren Bullard on to join the attack. Reed clearing the ball at the back for Real Bedford as Kett’s clearance has Fuller running to attack on the left. Gambell off a throw in the left inside to Russell, Alexander taking on the ball, looking to thread it into Fuller, cut out by Franklin. Russell taking the ball inside off of another throw on the left her shot on the angle straight at Pap.

  Russell laying the ball on for Densley out on the right, Newcombe bursting on to support her on the flank, Milliken isolated does well to get in between the pair to win the ball lift it forwards, Fensome looking it down knock to the left, Hodgson throwing out a leg to turn the ball away from her. 

Albany Hodgson

 Alexander up with Gambell central forwards to Russell inside the D her shot blocked by Mulvihill. Real Bedford spring the counter attack Price to Fensome releasing Billing on the left her cross cleared by Kett. A drinks break called alot of energy expanded out there. Play resuming Gambell taking the ball inside from the left laying it on for Densley top of the area, Franklin tackling, Gambell going down pulling up in alot of pain needs to come off Lucy Eagle joining the action with 10 plus stoppages to play.

  Eagle linking with Bullard on the left the ball clipped into the box, Mulvihill heads clear. Real Bedford dropping back intent on protecting their lead. Wroxham with a throw in the corner into Densley her cross cut out by Croucher inside the box, stays with Wroxham right up the line into Newcombe inside for Russell right corner digs the ball out from under her feet to cross too close to the keeper, Pap seeing the catch into her body. 

Wroxham’s Lucy Eagle

  Real Bedford with a rapid counter move getting the ball up to Fensome drifting left plays the one two with Billing wide getting the return pass inside the box to shoot on the angle, her strike fired in straight at the keeper. Billing taken off as Real Bedford send on Chloe Martin. One end to the other Eagles seeing Williams goal kick down left side, putting the defence under pressure the cross into the six yard box headed over for a corner. 

 Densley to take on the right dropping invitingly into the six yard box, think Russell gets her head on the ball drives the ball onto the crossbar, before a free-kick is called awarded Real Bedford’s way. 12 minutes of stoppage time in total. Real Bedford clear Price up to Fensome dinks the pass into Martin on the move left side her cross angled into the side netting, a Wroxham touch spotted, the corner awarded much to the annoyance of the fans. 

Erin Price

 Dropped into the six yard box from the left the ball headed down towards goal at close range, Williams with the sharp save little time to react straight at her knocks it up into the air dropping far post and dives down amongst legs to push the ball away to the right a goal kick awarded. 

Bryony Williams with a superb double save for Wroxham

  Real Bedford get on the attack Martin pushing inside with the ball at her feet from the left, played in central, Kett stopping it, knocked down, Fensome ready to pounce latching onto it inside the D pulling her shot wide of the right post. Eagle sees the ball into her feet lays it in to Bullard 20 yards out, Franklin out to close the attacker down. Eagle pulling up then taking a blow Wroxham take her off send Middleton back on for the final minutes of the game as Real Bedford look to get the ball forwards into the channels.

 

  Fensome breaking away still full of running coming in from the right across the top of the area her shot narrowly over from 20 yards. Fuller central looks to send the ball on turn and attack, Franklin sliding in to take the ball away from a throw in. A frantic finish to the game however Real Bedford see it out to celebrate winning the League Cup and completing a history making treble in just their first season.

Full time Real Bedford Ladies 4-2 Wroxham Women

  Treble wins aren’t common so to see two clubs do it in as many days is impressive, Real Bedford matching Whittlesey Athletic in that regards. Impressive. A strong first half seeing them race into a 4 goal lead. The damage done, it was nevertheless a spirited fight back from Wroxham in the 2nd half two goals in 7 minutes putting a different complexion on the game. Had further chances but Real Bedford were determined in defence not to concede again and remained a threat going forwards on the counter throughout William with a brilliant double save to deny them extending the lead. A treble won and FAWNL football to look forwards to next season, under a new manager. Georgia Clarke leaving her role, a treble winner in her first managerial role. Wroxham can be pleased with their 2nd half performance but will be disappointed to lose two cup finals. Nevertheless a great achievement to get there in the first place and a good platform to carry into next season. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto the 2nd Women’s Football East – Player of the Match award of the day. Again there was a clear contender early on although as the game wore on a few other get themselves into the mix with some good performances on both side. Firstly for Wroxham, goalkeeper Bryony Williams pulling off a superb double save with some brave goalkeeping to keep Wroxham in the hunt. Hannah Fuller came on 2nd half lifted the whole team got hold of the ball allowing other to get forwards creating chances. Ella Gambell frustrated in the first half used that positively in the 2nd half getting hold of the ball and linking up well with the forwards with some useful runs. Real Bedford out of the blocks well in the first half taking the game to Wroxham, Lisa Milliken, Gemma Franklin and Sophie Mulvihill all making good tackles at the back. Gemma Croucher linking up the midfield and attack well. Sophie Billing and Amber Smith lively down the wings. That drive coming from their captain Natasha Fensome wins the award got hold of the ball and drove at the Wroxham defence creating chances got into some great positions and was always ready to receive the ball.

Real Bedford Ladies 2023/24 ERWFL League Cup winners

Completing a historic treble in the process

 Congratulations to Real Bedford Ladies on winning this season’s ERWFL League Cup and winning the treble.

  Look forward to seeing Real Bedford in the FAWNL, another huge step up and I hope the club can sort out their ground issues with Bedford council before then. A busy but enjoyable day at Newmarket for the ERWFL Finals Day two entertaining matches. my thanks to both clubs for the help with the teams today and the ERWFL committee and staff at Newmarket for their hospitality. Into the final week of the season 3 more games to go…

by Darren Gilham

Cup Final Special – Wroxham FC Women v Norwich City Women

Monday 13th May

Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final

sponsored by Harrod Sport

No time to rest after a busy Sunday covering two finals on NWGFL Finals Day, the cup finals keep rolling on in May with a Monday evening trip to Carrow Road, home of Norwich City FC for this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup Final, with Wroxham FC Women reaching their 1st county cup final taking on current cup holders, Norwich City Women. 

The Norfolk Women’s County Cup enjoying a record crowd last season, played at Carrow Road. Had to wait and see how Norwich City FC’s, Championship season was going to turn out before announcing a date this time around. The competition proudly sponsored by Harrod Sport….

This evenings prize

Wroxham FC Women reaching the Norfolk Women’s County Cup for the 1st time in their history. One of two finals the ERWFL Premier Division outfit has reached this season with the ERWFL League Cup final to follow this coming Sunday at Newmarket Town FC against league champions Real Bedford Ladies. Another new manager at the start of the season the club bringing in, Adam Race from Long Stratton Women. New faces added to the squad, have a good balance on youth and experience, with several of their players having featured in finals at Carrow Road before.

Wroxham securing a 5th placed finish in the Premier Division, have goal scorers throughout their side. Hannah Fuller once again leading the goal scoring charts, firing home 25 goals so far this campaign. Lara Densley has had a fantastic season for the club scoring 10 goals. 10 goals too for Luci Middleton, doing well having come with race from Long Stratton stepping up to play regional football.

Norwich City Women fully merged with Norwich City FC now, dominated the county cup in it’s early years before stepping back from the competition, returning in recent season’s have won 2 of the last 3 finals to make it 5 in total. Winning at Carrow Road last season, the club is ambitious and aiming for promotion out of the 4th tier where thy have long been established. Bringing in Martin Herdman to manage the team, pushed eventual champions, AFC Wimbledon Women all the way. Herdman leaving part way through the campaign, Scott Emmerson from within the club taking on the job for the rest of the season were unbeaten, right up until the final day of the season losing out 1-0 away to Ashford Town (Middlesex) Women.

This evening’s final will be captain. Anna Larkins last game for the club, announcing she will be leaving the club she joined 16 years ago has been a fantastic servant for the club in that time. Natasha Snelling has enjoyed a prolific season in front of goal, the 3rd highest scorer in FAWNL South East Division One scoring 21 goals. Player of the season, Ellie Smith has scored 12 goals, with goal scorers scattered though out the side.

Road to the Final

 Norfolk County FC, using a seeding system in the competition meaning the higher ranked clubs don’t enter until the latter stages, in the case of both of this evenings opponents that being the quarter finals. Wroxham drawn away in the last 8 taking on Norfolk Women’s Division One side, Caister FC Ladies. Wroxham amongst the goals leading 4-0 at the break going on to add a further 3 in the 2nd half to cruise into the last 4 courtesy of a 7-0 win. Hannah Fuller on target for a brace, with a goal each for Chelsea Clarke, Lucy Eagle, Tigi Robson, Lara Densley and Luci Middleton. Seven goals too for Norwich City Women as they entertained, ERWFL Division One North leaders, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. Both, Hope Straus and Rachel Lawrence scoring 2 each. With goals too for Megan Todd, Eloise Morran and new signing Holly Kennard, joining from AFC Sudbury Women.

Both clubs amongst the goals in the semi-finals too, having home advantage, Wroxham were taking on ERWFL Division One North side, Fakenham Town Ladies. Fuller bagging herself a hat-trick, with goals too for Densley, Middleton and defender, Albany Hodgson, seeing Wroxham into their first county cup final. Norwich hosting Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies, their county cup opponents in their previous two finals, newly promoted to ERWFL Division One North, Norwich were determined to progress, with Natasha Snelling scoring twice. Shannon Shaw, Freya Symonds, Katie Knights, Lauren Hailes and Anna Larkins all on target too as Norwich won 7-0 to book their spot in a 2nd successive Carrow Road final. 

 Carrow Road hosting two of Norfolk FA’s County Cup finals this season on successive nights, starting tonight with the women’s cup and the men’s senior county cu on Tuesday. The pitch looking fantastic a brilliant surface to play on the teams out having a look round taking it all in pre-warm up. The Sir Geoffrey Watling Stand being used for spectators this evening, filing up nicely. The weather a little cooler after another warm day with some cloud cover but still pleasant.

Wroxham FC Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Lauren Kett, Albany Hodgson, Rachel Cossey, Becky Russell (C), Ella Gambell, Lara Densley, Lily Alexander & Luci Middleton. Subs – Holly Connell, Tigi Robson, Lauren Bullard, Lucy Eagle & Summer Copland.

Norwich City Women

 Norwich City Women starting XI – Sarah Quantrill, Anna Larkins (C), Hope Strauss, Ceri Flye, Alice Parker, Eloise Morran, Lauren Hailes, Katie Knights, Holly Kennard, Ellie Smith & Natasha Snelling. Subs – Millie Daviss, Freya Symonds, Lauren Tomlinson, Shannon Shaw & Charlotte Pernet.

Wroxham FC Women

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captains, Anna Larkins and Becky Russell with this evenings match officials

Huge injury blows for Wroxham for this evening’s county cup final with striker Hannah Fuller out, along with midfielder Jennifer Drummie. Both not only influential for the team but with experience playing at Carrow Road in previous final too. Still the opportunity for others to step up. Norwich with a strong line-up, missing Megan Todd who has enjoyed county cup success in the past. Pre match ceremonies complete it’s Norwich to kick-off the first half wearing yellow coloured shirts with green striping, green shorts and yellow socks. Wroxham lined up opposite wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to Eloise Morran in turn to Hope Strauss at the back. Ella Gambell running at her looking to close the ball down, comes out to the right, Katie Knights on the drive up the wing her pass inside cut out by Lauren Kett.

Norwich push players on winning a corner on the right. Appling early pressure players up the ball swung into the six yard box, goalkeeper Bryony Williams previously with Norwich deal with the threat the ball put out of the box. Ellie Smith looking to keep it alive closing down scrambled out for a throw on the right. Up level with the penalty area played inside by Natasha Snelling fires it across the D to Lauren Hailes left side pulls the trigger, defender, Albany Hodgson putting in the block the ball spinning behind for a corner on the left.

A flurry of Norwich chances as the ball fires in near post is deflected on into the middle of the area, Wroxham’s defence blocking one shot on the line then a follow up scrambled back out to the left curled back in the ball striking the base of the post! Norwich showing attacking intent right from the off. Wroxham clear the ball up their right, Lara Densley able to travel with it bursting down the line, sends wide high past the goal out for a throw in the left corner.

Play stopped an injury concern in midfield following the early Norwich attacks Gambell down treatment required, comes off to be assessed as play resumes. Hope Strauss at the back alongside captain Anna Larkins with time on the ball as Wroxham back up lifted out to the left for Hailes, plays a diagonal ball from deep into the area, Kett heading clear for Wroxham. Gambell back on the pitch, Norwich able to push their full backs right up to join the attackers adding to the pressure applied. Ceri Flye taking the opportunity to run with the ball up the line.

Lauren Kett

Hailes lively turning a throw in across the top of the area, headed away by Densley for Wroxham. Snelling across to the right looking to link up with Flye, Chelsea Clarke  under pressure ends up being fouled. A strong opening 7 minutes for Norwich. Gambell sliding in on half way with a heavy challenge on Flye, referee Lorraine Catchpole having word. Flye up okay.

Luci Middleton leading the line for Wroxham, is isolated up top as Norwich push Wroxham back, Strauss and Larkins often the only two players bar goalkeeper, Sarah Quantrill still in their half. Flye playing the cross into the area off of a throw on the right, Hodgson heading clear for Wroxham at the far post. Norwich win it straight back on the left driven into the area turned behind for a corner.

Lara Densley

Wroxham looking for an outlet, Densley the most likely on the right as she steal in on the ball gets the Norwich defence turned around as she races forwards putting it inside for Middleton looking to break into the box near side, closed down the ball rebounding out to captain Becky Russell free 30 yards out looks to take on the shot a high ball looping in towards goal, however Quantrill backing up onto her line makes a comfortable catch.

Lauren Bullard

Strauss lifting the ball long up the right as Holly Kennard powers forwards racing on with the ball roared on by the crowd plays the ball into the box, Hodgson dealing with it for Wroxham. Hodgson lunging in on Snelling giving away a free-kick in a dangerous area left side out to the right for Kennard to attack, Clarke getting across her run, defending seeing the ball out for a goal-kick.

Clarke looking to wiggle clear on the left for Wroxham beats the ball down with her hand as it’s deflected up in front of her, everyone in the stands roaring up seeing it, all except the referee on the opposite side, Clarke taking the ball on, Larkins across to challenge. Wroxham absorbing a lot of pressure, doing okay unlikely to get many opportunities up top, need to make them count. Densley pushing on well on the right, Middleton offering support as she looks to make herself available for the counter.

Smith flagged offside as the attacker looks to break into the box off a Hailes ball put on through the middle. Rachel Cossey getting the ball into Middleton back to goal spins away to the left putting the ball into the on rushing Densley taking the ball on towards the top of the area, Strauss manages to trap the ball between her legs, not clear though, Lily Alexander tries to snatch it, Strauss’ momentum gets her back onto ball to force clear.

Wroxham midfielder Rachel Cossey

Norwich break up the left Parker crossing in low near post Smith the target, Kett sliding in to challenge gets the ball behind for a corner but hurt as Smith falls on top of her, another pause in play Kett needing lengthy treatment comes off with the trainer needing to be waved back on as Norwich resume with the corner kick. The offside flag putting the end to another spell of Norwich pressure.

Norwich looking lively players racing forwards often exchanging positions, Smith and Snelling floating pulling wide at times, dropping deeper in others allowing others to run on. Flye amongst those pace to get into the box, runs into Kett who puts in the blocking tackle. Densley winning the ball on the right gets on the move linking up with Alexander who gives her the return pass as she breaks down the wing striking the ball on the angle, Quantrill right behind the ball.

Flye excites the fans as she pulls off a nutmeg on the right, skipping in behind the full back to drive at the box, once again Kett is there to halt her run. Leah Newcombe putting the ball on for Densley ahead of her, Norwich sliding in on her brought down the free-kick given away. Floated into the box Quantrill coming into the crowd to punch the ball clear, Norwich take it forwards on the counter, Kennard racing away down the right Clarke looking to get back at her squeezes a cross in along the top of the area Snelling in position left side, her strike charged down by Newcombe.

Norwich strong going forwards Flye right into the middle for Hailes, Russell getting in the tackle the ball coming to Middleton looks to get away from Strauss, Norwich as quick to get players back as they are to race forwards crowd the striker off the ball.

Luci Middleton looking to get away from Hope Strauss

Middleton getting n with the ball central has Densley up with her on the right channel playing the ball into her the ball into the box tame off target as Quantrill dives forwards onto the ball. Parker down on with a knock for Norwich receiving treatment. Wroxham under pressure holding out for the first half hour.

GOAL! Norwich attack pushing down the left the cross lifted up to the top of the area, Hailes inside the D going to shoot, her effort taking a deflection looping up in front of goal, Snelling on the line seeing the dropping ball onto her boot to side foot into the back of the net to open the scoring 0-1. 

Natasha Snelling opening the scoring for Norwich

Kennard driving on up the right wing for Norwich down to the by-line turns the ball in to the box, snuffed out by Hodgson, Kett clears the ball. Wroxham a little unsettled after conceding Norwich sharp getting up the flanks Parker left firing a ball through the six yard box. Smith getting about looking to get onto the ball cause Wroxham problems. Middleton up with Densley on the right exchanging passes, Parker back to defend, as Strauss comes to challenge for the ball.

Knights on for Flye on the right on the attack her cross taking a deflection up off a defender seeing in loop dangerously in towards goal, Williams cool back on her line to take the ball high above her head. Norwich making a change bringing off Parker, Lauren Tomlinson coming on. Wroxham too with a change Middleton replaced up top by Lauren Bullard. Play with Wroxham on the left have a free-kick after Kennard shoves Gambell over., Lifted into the D by Clarke, Russell under it knocks it in behind across to the far post, Bullard running in looking to get onto the end of it Norwich see the ball out.

Hodgson fouling Tomlinson in a central position 22 yards out a dangerous position as Snelling and Smith stand over the ball, it’s Smith who takes on the shot over the wall high looping in towards goal destined to drop in under the bar but for an excellent save from Williams throwing her arm up to glove the ball over the bar.

The resulting corner into the top of the area, Densley does well defending on Strauss to clear the ball. Winning the ball back Strauss gives the ball to Larkins played on for Kennard racing away up the right whips a vicious ball in across the face of goal, Williams diving forwards to claim it vital with Snelling racing in to attack it beyond.

Russell finding Densley with the ball on the right, has Newcombe getting up with her laying it wide looks to break inside into the box, Newcombe unable to pick her out with her cross. Hodgson shown a yellow card as she tugs on Snelling’s shirt as the attacker attempts to skip past her left of the D. Hailes over the resulting free-kick, curled in towards goal not troubling Williams. A few wild challenges flying in Wroxham need to settle, Smith brought down. Winning a corner on the right Norwich play the ball short up the line the angled ball turned in towards goal, Williams right behind it.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Bryony Williams

Into stoppage time 5 minutes to be played, Wroxham with Alexander into Densley right channel inside for Bullard in the D, looks to wriggle free to get a shot away, Morran tracking back from midfield in to win the ball back. Smith carded as she slides in on Kett as the defender loos to clear the ball in the box. Norwich with a corner on the left played in far post cleared out of the area a fouls spotted as Wroxham attempt to bring the ball out, Hailes picks up a booking for kicking the ball away, the crowd booing the decision Hailes gesturing playing up to the crowd, good natured engaging with the support.

Lauren Hailes engaging with the crowd after picking up her booking

Morran giving away a late free-kick wide left into the top of the area Larkins in to block the ball as the half-time whistle blows.

Half-time Wroxham FC Women 0-1 Norwich City Women

  A strong first half performance from Norwich, getting forwards at will at times, still have just the one goal to show for it. Williams playing her part in keeping that number down with a fantastic save. Have been able to get on pushing the full backs up to join the attack throughout. Wroxham battling at the back dealing with a lot of pressure, getting forwards when they can Densley looking their best outlet if she can get support.

The sides out ready for the 2nd half

Wroxham making a double substitute as the 2nd half resumes, Middleton back on for Gambell, Tigi Robson on for Hodgson at the back. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway in front of another fantastic crowd of 922. Norwich immediately in to close the ball down run out of play for a throw on the left, break away down the wing, Tomlinson flashing a cross into the six yard box, Snelling at the far post down to Smith central, can’t get her shot away, comes back to Snelling, Williams saving with her legs the shot put over.

GOAL! Norwich attacking at the start of the 2nd half threatening to overwhelm Wroxham pushing on up the right the ball comes into the top of the area, Knights to receive it strikes a rising shot in past the keeper to double Norwich’s lead 0-2. Knights definitely a fans favourite running over to the crowd to celebrate.

Katie Knights turns in celebration as she double Norwich’s lead rushing over to cheering crowd

A blow for Wroxham right at the start of the 2nd half. Get on down the right to win a corner. fired into the near post low Norwich defend turned out to the top of the box, Robson looks to lift the ball back in towards goal, Quantrill claiming it high. Cossey in the middle picking out Densley on the left travels forwards for Wroxham her cross into the box headed away by Larkins, Norwich getting it up quickly on the right for Kennard, evades Clarke, Kett coming into the corner to put the ball out for a corner.

Katie Knights

 

Curled in towards goal Williams right behind it to catch unchallenged. Smith attempts to thread a diagonal ball into Kennard coming in to attack inside the box on the right, Williams rushing out to making the blocking save with her legs the loose ball running in across the penalty spot, Snelling running in to attack it Wroxham’s defence rushing back to cover their goal, get the block in to turn the ball away for a corner.

A change before it’s taken, Kennard off with Parker back on, her first job to take the corner kick, Densley defending for Wroxham. Morran running onto the ball 30 yards out lashes a shot up over the crossbar. Clarke coming off for Wroxham, Holly Connell coming on to join the defence. Middleton jumping with Strauss gets the better of the defender turning to get onto the ball break into the right channel, Morran tracking back to get in to close her down, blocking her attempted cross turned behind for a corner.

Norwich back to defend at their near post. A double change for Norwich, Freya Symonds and Millie Daviss coming on, Hailes and Knights coming off. Newcombe playing the ball up the line for Bullard on the right the Wroxham attacker looking for Middleton in the box, pulls her diagonal ball into the keeper. Parker surging down the right for Norwich lifting a cross in near post attacked by Daviss, Kett on her defending well for Wroxham.

GOAL! Tomlinson knocking the ball on down the left wing getting in behind to square a great delivery into the six yard box, Snelling closing in on the far post, placing her head on the ball to ram home her 2nd of the game and Norwich’s 3rd. 0-3.

Natasha Snelling celebrates with cross provider, Lauren Tomlinson

Smith getting hold of the ball through the middle driving forwards, hauled down. The free-kick out to the right for Parker, eased off the ball by Russell inside the box. Cossey coming off for Wroxham on comes Gambell back into the action. Middleton the latest player to go into the book for a foul out on the wing. A free-kick in from the wide position won by Densley, another infringement spotted however Norwich keep the pressure on, Parker curling the delivery wide.

Ella Gambell

GOAL! Norwich looking strong full of running, Tomlinson deep cross from the left into the box Smith looking to attack it  dragged down as she goes to shoot, the referee immediately pointing to the spot. Penalty! Strauss to take the spot kick, a short run up but a powerful hit smashing the ball into the right side of the goal, Williams dives the right way but can’t get close to it 0-4.

Hope Strauss fires home Norwich’s penalty

Hope Strauss

Strauss has has had a fantastic season for Norwich. Can recall a time in the early days of Women’s Football East, when she was a young up coming player within the Billericay Town Women’s set-up, Kim Coster telling me how good a player she was, great to see that development. Under 20 minutes left to play it’s all Norwich.

Wroxham struggling to get the ball into their attackers in the 2nd half forced onto the back foot. Lucy Eagle coming on to go up top for Wroxham, Middleton coming off. Gambell booked for Wroxham after she brings Tomlinson down. Tomlinson subbed off moments later, Charlotte Pernet. Norwich in full control how Wroxham tiring pinned back, a high ball in from the right taken by Williams.

Norwich pushing on up the right to the by-line the cross cut back into the near post Snelling looking to get on the end of it, Alexander in to block for Wroxham. Kett coming off at the back for Wroxham, Hodgson sent back on. Snelling brought off, by Norwich Shannon Shaw going on up top. Pernet on the left level with the top of the area puts in into Shaw top corner of the box rolls her defender to send a shoot arching in towards goal, William s diving to push the ball away from goal falls straight to the onrushing Smith smashes her first time shot wide past the far post.

Eagle seeing he ball down into her feet turns to clip a diagonal ball long into the Norwich area looking for Densley breaking forwards, Strauss heading the ball clear. Symonds getting on with the ball on the left running into the box sees her cross blocked by Robson.

GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes Norwich press on the right the ball inside to Symonds bursts into the area her shot blocked the loose ball running across the face of goal, Smith rushing in to blast the ball home to get herself on the score sheet 0-5.

Ellie Smith gets her goal

Morran grabbing hold of the ball 25 yards out unleashing a strike, put straight at Williams back on her goal line. Knights returning to the pitch as the club brings off their captain Anna Larkins for one last time, rightly getting a standing ovation from the Norwich faithful.

Knights running onto the ball played into Shaw who send a shot racing past the far post on the angle. Hodgson defending closing in on Symonds as she looks to turn on the ball right side of the D.

GOAL! A corner conceded on the right, Norwich play it short rolled back to the taker played up the line Daviss firing the ball back into the area, the ball deflected for a moment the crowd are silent as no one reacts the ball creeping inside the right post however, a 6th goal scored, unfortunately an own goal 0-6.

An unfortunate own goal as the ball creeps in inside the post

Wroxham’s opportunities in attack few and far between in the 2nd half late on Densley gets on down the right, but can’t pick out Alexander inside the box from her cross. Norwich with one last push the ball fed into Symonds right side looks to send it on for Shaw making a move to get into the box, Williams running out to the top of her area getting there first. That’s it all over the final whistle blows and Norwich win 6-0 to retain the County Cup.

Full time Wroxham FC Women 0-6 Norwich City Women

  Norwich ramped it up 2nd half getting straight on the attack to quickly double their lead though Katie Knights, ringing the changes Lauren Tomlinson crossing the ball in for Natasha Snelling to head in Norwich’s 3rd. Wroxham fought hard at the back, but often penned in their box found it difficult to get anything going the other way. Norwich kept coming a 4th coming from the penalty spot, a couple of late goals sealing a dominant win to retain the county cup. Wroxham had injuries but will be hugely disappointed feel they could have posed a few more questions going forwards if they were prepared to give it a go still at 1 nil at half-time did okay and had the early goals not gone in the 2nd half might have fancied their chances. Still have to pick themselves up another huge game around the corner the ERWFL League Cup still to contest. A fifth placed league finish and two cup finals giving the club and excellent base to build on for next season whatever the out come. Will be there to see them in action at Newmarket on Sunday. Norwich finishing their season on a high retaining the county cup after a strong FAWNL campaign finishing 2nd losing just the one game by a single goal. Looking for a new manager to take the club forwards as they aim for promotion to the 3rd tier.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto the 3rd and final Women’s Football East – Player of the Match of a busy spell of cup finals, a few contenders but won’t veer from the player awarded on the night. Wroxham battle hard were pinned back for most of the game little room for defenders to manoeuvre, Lauren Kett in particular making a number of vital blocks and tackles. Bryony Williams understandably distraught to concede 6 goals but nevertheless made some critical saves and no doubt kept her side in it 1st half. Lara Densley a threat on the right got forwards when she could just needed more support. Norwich were rampant in attack right from the start taking the game to Wroxham, powering down the wings doubling up at times players rotating positions. Katie Knight getting about to win the ball high, Ceri Flye surging forwards linking up with Holly Kennard. Hope Strauss comfortable at the back ready to stifle any threat used the ball well. Natasha Snelling getting into some great scoring positions. The award though goes to Ellie Smith moved about the back line looking for the ball and to set up chances for herself and others.

Ellie Smith collecting her player of the match award

 Congratulations to Norwich City Women on retaining the Norfolk Women’s County Cup.

Norwich captain, Anna Larkins collecting the county cup trophy in her final game for Norwich

Norwich City Women 2023/24 Norfolk Women’s County Cup winners

 Another fantastic occasion at Carrow Road. Norfolk FA doing a great job, very grateful to get the opportunity to cover the final once again. Thanks for the help this evening. 3 finals in two days, makes for a busy schedule, 3 reports done, sleep sacrificed but it’s all done and dusted for another year… well till next weekend anyway 5 more finals to come… wouldn’t have it any other way.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies v Wroxham FC Women

Sunday 28th Jan

ERWFL League Cup

Back at it after a much needed weeks break, heading over to Mulberry Park this afternoon to watch Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies take on fellow Norfolk side Wroxham FC Women in the quarter finals of the ERWFL League Cup.

 A strong line up reaching the last 8 of this season’s competition with Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies one of two Division One sides to progress this far, with the other being Division One South leaders Watford Ladies Development away to the Premier Division’s runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies. defending cup holders Luton Town Ladies are away to St Albans City Women next week. Bowers & Pitsea Ladies taking on Stevenage FC Women in the remaining quarter final tie. A different format to the League Cup this season with all the clubs entering at the 1st Round stage, previously the Premier Division sides entered in the 3rd Round.

 Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies moving up into regional football after back to back titles in Norfolk Women’s Division One. Building a strong women’s section in their relative short history bringing in a high level of talent from Norfolk. Have made a good start to life in tier 6, whilst suffering the frustration of a lack of league fixtures for various reasons, that had seen them a low as 2nd bottom purely through lack of game time, but with just 13 points separating top to bottom a 3-2 at home to Fakenham last weekend push Mulbarton up to 5th and with plenty of game in hand on the sides above are more than capable of putting pressure on the top two whom they have yet to face in the league.

 Rebekah Lake amongst the best strikers playing in the county has been top of the scoring charts for Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies since their beginning and is out in front again this season finding the back of the net for 14 goals from 9 appearances. Sam Walker another leading goal scorer in the county joining Mulbarton from Long Stratton last season has 5 so far from 8 played. A bye for the club in the 1st Round of the League Cup drawn at home to Division one South side Billericay Town Women Development, Lake on target for a brace with Walker also scoring in a 3-0 victory. Away to another Division One South side in the 3rd Round taking on Lawford Ladies, goals from lake, Lucy Kean, Atlanta Griffith, Laura Hedtke and Charlotte Groves sealing a 5-2 win to send Mulbarton into the last 8.

 Wroxham FC Women currently 4th in the ERWFL Premier Division table, amongst a cluster of sides in the top 5 separated by just two points challenging for what looks like runners-up spot with runaway leaders Real Bedford Ladies yet to drop a point so far this season. Adam Race taking on the managerial role this season having moved from Long Stratton, inheriting a strong squad with a great blend of youth and experience have added a number to their ranks with the most recent signings being talented young goalkeeper Bryony Williams and experienced defender Mary Croft both dual signed from Norwich City Women.

 Hannah Fuller (previously Waters) can easily go toe to toe as one of the best strikers in the county. Both are a nightmare to defend against finding great positions to run in behind and take on players. Leading the goal scoring charts for her club once again netting 20 goals so far from 15 matches . Lara Densley enjoying a great season for Wroxham on the scoresheet for 8 goals from 16 played. Luci Middleton and captain Becky Russell both with 7 goals. Like Mulbarton a bye for Wroxham in the opening round, an away trip to Essex to play newly promoted Southend United Ladies in the 2nd Round, Holly Connell striking twice with goals from Hannah Fuller, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley and Keela Olive securing a 6-1 win. A home tie in the 3rd Round against fellow Norfolk side and Division One North leader, Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers Women. Fuller on target to bag herself a hat-trick with Ella Gambell and Russell getting a goal apiece in a 5-1 victory.

 Mulberry Park the venue for todays game the weather much improved after the stormy conditions at the beginning of the week. Warm and bright, with no wind. The pitch seeing a lot of action, the ground still damp heavy in places. A small seated stand opposite the dugouts with the tee hut open serving hot drinks and snacks. The sun low behind the stands moved from my opposite flank to view the game so I had it at my back to help with the camera. 

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies

Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies starting XI – Jody Todd, Lauren Bumstead, Rachel Jermy, Megan Belsey, Ellie Hunter, Leah Brown, Lanta Griffith, Sam Walker, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Melissa Belsey, Laura Hedtke, Poppy Loveland & Olivia Smith.

Wroxham FC Women

 Wroxham FC Women starting XI – Bryony Williams, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson, Albany Hodgson, Becky Russell (C), Jennifer Drummie, Lauren Bullard, Lara Densley, Luci Middleton & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Ella Gambell, Rachel Cossey, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Sumer Copland.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Mulbarton to get this afternoon’s quarter final underway kicking off the first half wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. Wroxham lined up opposite in their away colours aquamarine coloured shirts with black across the top of the chest and shoulders, black shorts and socks. The ball played back into the middle, Wroxham break forwards quickly to pressure the ball out on the left the ball won pushed back towards captain Becky Russell outside the box clips a high ball in towards goal dropping down cannons off the bar back into play the Mulbarton defence launching it clear.

Wroxham captain, Becky Russell

  Wroxham setting the tempo early doors getting at the Mulbarton back line keeping the hosts pinned in the final 3rd Chelsea Clarke combining with Lara Densley on the left flank on for Luci Middleton wide her cross blocked behind for a corner kick. Curled into the area defended headed back out to the left the 2nd ball in deflected away for a throw in. Wroxham threatening left side Russell with Densley forwards for Middleton to attack running into the box, tackled the ball prodded out of play for another corner.

Lara Densley crossing the ball for Wroxham

   Ellie Hunter looking to take the ball on through the middle spark Mulbarton into life played on for captain Rebekah Lake up to, Albany Hodgson stepping in to intercept the pass. Wroxham come right Jennifer Drummie off a throw in forwards for Lauren Bullard to travel the the by-line before squaring a ball into the six yard box, cut out and cleared by Megan Belsey at the back for Mulbarton. All Wroxham winning the ball inside the Mulbarton half push players into the final third the ball rolled into Densley top of the D, struck on the half volley, dipping in front of goalkeeper Jody Todd does well to get her palms behind it make the blocking save. 

Mulbarton yet to get a toe hold in the Wroxham half yet a meaningful attack registered, Drummie in to win the ball in the middle, Clarke left and Leah Newcombe on the right getting forwards to push the hosts back. The ball sent long on the left in behind for Fuller to attack  from the left channel a strong run, Lauren Bumstead and Belsey going with her as she powers her way into the box the ball won well and cleared. 

Lauren Bumstead clears the ball for Mulbarton

 Wroxham dictating the play able to push their defence up play the ball across the back, Lake up top alone with a lot to do if her teammates can get the ball into her. Newcombe taking the ball on up the right forwards for Bullard looking to turn in behind, Hunter tracking back well getting to the ball to take it clear for a throw. 

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter

  Hodgson plays the pass along the ground into Densley left side, lines up a strike from range her shot flashing wide of the far post. The visitors forwards on the left Clarke on for Densley into Fuller left of the D, gets the ball across the top of the area for Middleton central ready to shoot, Hunter gets back on her in the nick of time to win the ball the opportunity gone. Sam Walker goes into the book for an off the ball offence with Drummie. 

Wroxham attacker, Luci Middleton

  Walker with a ell timed challenge a few moment later to halt Densley’s progress as she looks to make ground on the left. Belsey out to block Densley as she lines up another strike 25 yards out top of the D. Walker find Leah Brown on the right as the winger looks to get away down the line pushing inside, Densley closing her down stops the cross, Brown winning Mulbarton their first corner of the game. Taken short, Mulbarton dally on the ball too long as Wroxham rush out to close it down threaten to counter, Belsey standing her ground on halfway to make sure that doesn’t happen. 

  Midway through the first half, Wroxham dictating play creating chances around the box, Mulbarton yet to have in theirs working hard at the back, getting the ball out and keeping it their proving difficult. Middleton seeing the ball into her feet 25 yards out to the left of the D, turns well to hit the shot her effort flashing over the crossbar. Drummie out to Newcombe right on for Bullard, Rachel Jermy stretching to win the ball clears for Mulbarton. 

Mulbarton defender, Rachel Jermy.

  Russell sending the pass on for Bullard wide right squares it across the top of the area, Drummie running onto the ball her shot charged down by Belsey. Newcombe taking the ball in behind for Wroxham on the right, Sophie Jermy running back to challenge on the by-line clearing for the hosts falls straight to Russell positioned right of the area 25 yards out, looks to thread a diagonal ball on for Middleton spinning off the defence into the area central, Bumstead getting back at her to lung in take the ball away from her. 

  Sophie Jermy pushed back needing to slow down Newcombe help Rachel Jermy out with Bullard looking to run in behind her. Walker on for Hunter through the middle, Lake pulling out wide on the left into space brings the ball down whipping a cross into the area, Molly Ryan cutting in of the right channel looking to attack it the ball though cleared by Hodgson. 

  Mulbarton finding a little momentum in the middle as Lanta Griffith, Hunter and Sophie Jermy combine getting forwards on the left, Jermy sending the ball on for Hunter bursting into the left channel the ball crossed in cleared back out to Griffith, lifted back into the box, Tigi Robson heading clear for Wroxham out to the right of the box, Ryan looking to latch onto it, Clarke in to block her shot. 

Sophie Jermy

  Clarke on from the left with Densley played into Fuller left of the area turns inside bursting into the six yard box putting it in across goal, Todd their first to snatch the ball down, vital with Middleton lurking ready to turn it home. Clarke getting up on the left receiving the lay off from Fuller left of the D, shots her shot blocked defecting harmlessly through to the keeper. Wroxham upping the ante pressing forwards as a pack the ball played into Fuller up top left side flicks the ball into the path of Middleton putting her clear right side to attack the goal, shoots, Todd down smartly gloving the ball away for a corner kick. 

Luci Middleton played in on goal

  The ball dropped into the box scrambled away by Hunter for Mulbarton. Sophie Jermy alert on the left taking a quick throw looking to set Griffiths away, Newcombe getting back at her to tackle see the ball out for a throw. Clarke putting Fuller through in behind to run into the box, and score won’t count however the flag early against her as Mulbarton’s defence hold a good line. Fuller hungry for a goal, so too Clarke as the ball comes back to her on the left, as soon as it arrives you can see she’s going to take the shot on hit on the angle a vicious ball in low dipping late on Todd does well to block with her legs as she falls forwards doesn’t get hold of it as Fuller rushes in on the follow up, strikes the ball looking to get it over the keeper, Todd getting enough of her body in the way to deflect it over the bar!

Hannah Fuller in to follow up Clarke’s strike seeing her shot deflect over of the keeper

  Bryony Williams has largely been a spectator in goal for Wroxham in the first half but need to remain alert pushing up from the back Mulbarton winning it back launch a pass long for Lake to try and chase down, Williams needing to come hurtling out of her area to clear the ball. Wroxham attack right Bullard sending it on for Newcombe on the overlap to the by-line back to Bullard turning into the area right lifts a cross into the mix, Hunter trapping the ball top of the six yard box, but not away Fuller taking a swing at it as it rolls forwards doesn’t get a clear hit scuffed as Megan Belsey gets the block in and taken away to the left for a corner kick.

Wroxham full back Leah Newcombe

Lauren Bullard preparing to cross

Megan Belsey into block Hannah Fuller’s attempted strike

  Mulbarton making a change bringing off Ryan with Poppy Loveland coming on. Russell seeing the ball onto her feet for Wroxham outside the D, puts her foot through the shot rising in on goal, Todd with the spectacular save gloving the ball up over the bar for the corner kick.

Mulbarton goalkeeper, Jody Todd

  Swung into the area knocked down into the mix, cleared by Bumstead, the counter on as Sophie Jermy takes it on for Griffiths who bombs forwards into the left channel making for the box is clipped as she looks to drive into the area, goes down play brought back for the free-kick, Bullard goes into the referees book. Loveland on the set-piece gets it past the Wroxham wall in towards goal, Williams though right behind seeing the ball into her mid-riff as she drops forwards. 

Lanta Griffith driving on for Mulbarton

 Into first half stoppage time Wroxham still prepared to push player forwards Drummie winning in in the middle on for Russell, playing the ball forwards as Rachel Jermy and Walker collide allowing a gap for Fuller to turn and run into looking to get onto it as it races towards the box, Todd sharp diving forwards onto the ball in the nick of time Fuller leaping up letting out a cry of frustration. 

a coming together at the back sees Hannah Fuller break after the ball

Jody Todd getting to the ball before Fuller can strike

Half-time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-0 Wroxham FC Women

  As one sided a goalless first half as you will ever see, Wroxham will be wondering how they are not in front have pushed hard for the opening goal, seeing one disallowed and the woodwork struck. Mulbarton goalkeeper Jody Todd called into action for a number of saves. The hosts have had to work hard at the back to keep Wroxham at bay right from the off a gutsy performance under pressure. Rebekah Lake up top on her own getting little to fed on. Wroxham pushing up will getting their full backs advanced to keep Mulbarton pushed back looking to move the ball about the park. Still with nothing in the goal scored column all to play for 2nd half.

  Changes for both sides at the break, Mulbarton staying out on the pitch making two changes bringing on Laura Hedtke and Melissa Belsey for Bumstead and Griffith. Ella Gambell coming on for Wroxham on the right replacing Bullard. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway, played into Russell looks to clip the ball out to the left for Densley, Brown can see it safely out of play for Mulbarton. 

  Gambell into the attack early on racing down the right into the corner winning a free-kick. Looped into the near post headed on across goal headed goal wards the ball claimed by Todd in goal. Russell gathering the ball into hr feet on the right tracking inside for Wroxham fires it into Densley running in central to curl a shot from 20 yards out wide of the right post.

Wroxham midfielder, Jennifer Drummie

  Wroxham looking to start of the 2nd half where they left off the first. Middleton drifting right seeing her cross cut out turned behind for a corner. The corner curled into the middle of the area by Densley headed back out to the right inside the box snatched hold of by Gambell strikes a shot on the angle saved by Todd knocked down into the ground and cleared by the defence. 

  Hedtke sending the ball on for Lake pulling out to the left for Mulbarton wide has limited options as she looks to cross the ball into the area, the ball intercepted by Hodgson. Drummie on through the middle, Middleton and Fuller running in ahead of her towards the area plays it on for Middleton central as Fuller peels away to the right of goal, Middleton lays the ball into her Megan Belsey getting across to lunge in to put in the block as she goes to pull the trigger the ball spinning away for a corner kick.

Rebekah Lake looking to cross the ball.

  The corner count rising Densley putting so useful balls ball in from that side, in central cleared back to Gambell right this time sends her shot behind. Mulbarton making another change bringing on Olivia Smith to replace Walker. Brown storming forwards with the ball on the left for Mulbarton, sending it inside to Lake 20 yards out, Clarke in to challenge her before she can look to spin in behind to shoot. 

Leah Brown coming forwards with the ball for Mulbarton

 Clarke running into space on the left found by Russell striking in a shot on the angle held by Todd. Mulbarton’s back line remain pinned back, Megan Belsey and Rachel Jermy both making a blocking tackle on Middleton and Fuller respectfully. Gambell adding to Wroxham’s threat going forwards with some driving runs on the right, sees a cross snuffed out by Rachel Jermy as he breaks for the by-line.

Ella Gambell attacking for Wroxham

  Clarke adding to the threat going forwards from the back on the left for Wroxham, bursting forwards plays a one two with Fuller as she continues her run past her into a central position to shoot from 20 yards out her effort fired straight at Todd who claims the ball. 

Chelsea Clarke getting forwards on the left for Wroxham

 Wroxham make their 2nd change bringing Rachel Cossey on to replace Middleton. Densley tracking in from the left appears to be bundled over, the visitors appealing for the fouls as the ball runs through to Gambell 25 yards out right side, Rachel Jermy rushing out to meet her win the challenge for Mulbarton. Wroxham win a corner on the right swung in near post Todd comes out into the mix to try and get hold of it doesn’t as the ball is turned behind for a 2nd corner.

  GOAL! The corner deliveries from the right have been dangerous and this one brings the opening goal the ball fired in with pace into the six yard box met by Robson making her 50th appearance for Wroxham gets her head under the ball powering it into the back of the net 0-1.

Wroxham celebrate scoring the opening goal

Tigi Robson scoring on her 50th appearance for the club

  The deadlock finally broken in the 65th minute. Play resumes Ryan and Griffith back on for Mulbarton the ball played up the left sent into the area, cleared. Robson down needing treatment. Wroxham suddenly down to 10 as Clarke finds herself sent to the sin bin the game had gotten a little testy. The visitors adjusting to the player disadvantage by making a change bringing of Densley, with Ellie Overton coming on the fill in at the back. 

Wroxham’s Albany Hodgson

   Gives Melissa Belsey less to worry about on her flank the full back getting forwards as Hedtke picks her out with the pass up the pitch lifts a cross into the box knocked clear by Hodgson. Mulbarton a goal down with a player advantage need to come out attack, have to remain wary of Wroxham’s attack still lively Gambell on the drive central closed down well by Megan Belsey. The ball swept out to Fuller pulling right side of the box lay the cross into the D with Drummie on the move Ryan going with her getting enough of a challenge in to slow her down force the ball left as Megan Belsey comes to clear the ball.

Melissa Belsey

  Wroxham competing well with one less player keeping the ball away from their exposed left flank. Russell on the left of the box heading the ball down into Fuller central turns to run out to the right, Smith stretching to stop her cross. Robson going down under a heavy challenge picking up a knock Wroxham on the attack Drummie clipped out to Fuller right her cross chipped into the box cleared by Megan Belsey.

  Griffith getting hold of the ball driving forwards through the middle for Mulbarton aiming to thread the ball through the Wroxham defence for Lake to hunt down, Williams though ready racing out to the top of her area to dive onto the ball.

Bryony Williams winning the race to claim the ball

  Mulbarton pressing on trying to find a break through to get them back on level terms Hedtke on for Lake to attack, Williams again going down to claim it spills the ball however no one is close enough to capitalise as the ball is made safe. Clarke’s time up is allowed back onto the pitch eager to resume, Overton pushed on ahead of her. Hunter and Gambell battling for the ball come together a bit of afters quickly dispelled, Hunter hurt in need of treatment can’t continue, Bumstead coming back on.

   Fuller with a drive on the right smashing the ball against the crossbar from the angle. Robson is down feeling the effects of her earlier knock, needs to come off with Newcombe returning to the game. The clock ticking down Wroxham continue to dominate the attack, yet while the score remains 1 nil Mulbarton only need one moment to turn the game on its head, looking unlikely though with Fuller driving on with the ball into the area, Melissa Belsey and Bumstead combining to defend see the ball out for a corner. 

 Gambell from the right cutting inside lays the ball in central, Loveland cutting it out for Mulbarton playing it forwards the left, Clarke latching hold of it coming straight back at them. The final whistle signalling the end of the game Wroxham clinch the win to send them through to the last 4 of this season’s ERWFL League Cup

Full time Mulbarton Wanderers Ladies 0-1 Wroxham FC Women

  Tigi Robson’s 65th header proving to be the difference between the sides as Wroxham find a goal in the 2nd half to win the match. Doesn’t tell the whole story, Wroxham no doubt the dominant side going forwards right from the opening whistle creating chances getting players forwards to keep Mulbarton penned back limited their opportunities going forwards in the process. An intriguing yet tense contest. Mulbarton on the back foot never really found the spark to get ignited going forwards that left Lake isolated in attack, no doubt part of Wroxham’s game plan. Credit to the defence however who played well making some vital challenges under a lot of pressure. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Time to pick this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match as more often than not a difficult one and one I don’t thankfully have to make on the final whistle, even if one or two players are in prime position in my thought the notes help immensely. Some great and battling performances out there. Firstly for Mulbarton, Ellie Hunter  really covered the ground in the middle getting back to help the defence and winning the ball doing her all to get her side going forwards. Credit to the defence for a hard fought display particularly Megan Belsey for some vital blocks and tackles. Goalkeeper Jody Todd too her saves and positioning undoubtedly keeping the score down. For Wroxham was a strong attacking performance  without necessarily getting the rewards. Both full backs got forwards well Leah Newcombe on the right, Chelsea Clarke strong on the left with some great runs and passing, getting into good shooting positions. Hannah Fuller up top would have scored a hat-trick on another day made some great runs pulling into the channels setting up others. Luci Middleton deeper with some fantastic runs with and without the ball to create chances. Tigi Robson scoring the winning goal in her 50th appearance for the club. As is often the case when one side is pushing the other back it’s how the ball is won back in the middle that often keeps the pressure on and for that today’s award goes to Jennifer Drummie a strong performance in the middle to win the ball and keep Wroxham pressing forwards getting into some good positions to have herself a shot too.

  Well rested after a week off, didn’t know how much I needed it. A great game to come back to. Always a good contest between the sides who might well end up facing each other in the County Cup should they win there respective quarter finals. My thanks to both for there help with the teams today and to catch up with a few footballing friends.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

Sunday 24th September

ERWFL Premier Division

 Travelling to Trafford Park this Sunday to take in my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier Division, representing tier 5 of the women’s football pyramid is a strong league with plenty of talent on show today’s game featuring Wroxham Women taking on Essex side, Bowers & Pitsea Ladies. 

 A competitive title battle last season seeing Luton Town Ladies getting off to a flying start before the others hauled them in with newly promoted AFC Sudbury Women clinching the title to secure back to back promotions to reach the FAWNL for the first time in their history. With just one promotion spot up for grabs it’s sure to be another tense battle at the top. A new look Real Bedford Ladies side setting the early pace with 5 wins from 5 to sit 7 points clear of the rest… a long way to go however. 

  Today’s game featuring two sides long established in the ERWFL, both under going transformations along the way. Wroxham Women formerly Acle United Ladies merging with Wroxham in 2019, the club keen to build on a side pushing for promotion to the FAWNL themselves and go all the way. Covid coming along to disrupt every bodies plans, Wroxham haven’t quite found the consistency to push for the top in what is a highly competitive league. A new start for the club this season bringing in a new manager, Adam Race, previously with Long Stratton Women, having turned the Norfolk Division One side into a strong team ready to challenge at the top of the league.

 Have recruited strongly over the past couple of season’s bringing in a number of fresh faces under previous manager Joe Simpson with the likes of goalkeeper Megan Gowing joining last season from Beccles. Brought in several players from their one time league rivals Wymondham Town Ladies with more joining this campaign, defenders Leah Newcombe and Chelsea Clarke, winger Natasha Youngs and midfielder Rachel Cossey returning to the pitch after battling back from 2 season’s lost due to injury. Ella Gambell joining from Norwich City Women along with Lily Alexander. Race also bringing striker Luci Middleton with him from Long Stratton after finishing top scorer in the league with 35 goals from 20 appearances. Hit the ground running with a 12-0 demolition away to King’s Lynn Town Ladies on the opening day. defeats away to Luton and at home to Real Bedford were to follow before earning the 3 points with a good win away to Needham Market Women last Sunday.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies like Wroxham establishing themselves in the ERWFL under a different guise as Little Thurrock Dynamo’s before going on to become an integral part of the Bowers & Pitsea family in 2018, going on to secure promotion to the Premier Division that season. Having consolidated building into a strong team within tier 5 more than capable of beating anyone on their day. Robert Elmes coming in to manage the first team this season.

The first team backed up by a Reserves team playing in the Essex Women’s Premier Division and a strong youth set-up with a number of new recruits to the squad promoted from their treble winning U18s side with the like of goalkeeper Hannah Stone, Libby Cooper, Darcy Drewitt, Ella Ford, Olivia Harris, Ellie Barrett and Chloe Bardsley all featuring today. Danielle Hindley also joining this season from Hutton Ladies with Isabella Darby also new to the squad joining from London Seaward. Came out on top in a 7 goal thriller on the opening day winning 4-3 at home to Royston Town Women that followed up by back to back draws both 2-2 at home to AFC Dunstable Women and away to newly promoted Barking FC Women. Losing out narrowly 1-0 away to leaders Real Bedford Ladies last time out. 

 Trafford Park the venue for today’s game home, the large grass pitch with a slight gradient a good test for players fitness space to exploit. A small covered stand on one side with the clubhouse housing the bar and kitchen on the opposite side serving hot food and drink. The weather still mild as we enter autumn, cloudy but warm whenever the sun breaks through, still with no chance of rain. Still nursing a soar knee but the most comfortable position is standing up a god cup of tea and cheeseburger all set for the game.

Wroxham Women

  Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Gowing, Leah Newcombe, Chelsea Clarke, Tigi Robson, Albany Hodgson, Becky Russell (C), Rachel Cossey, Lara Densley, Lauren Bullard, Ella Gambell & Hannah Fuller. Subs – Jennifer Drummie, Ellie Overton, Luci Middleton & Lily Alexander.

Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies starting XI – Hannah Stone, Holly Moore, Libby Cooper, Natalie Strange (C), Olivia Bilson, Danielle Hindley, Megan Elwes, Ella Ford, Millie Isherwood, Whitney Locke & Darcy Drewitt. Subs – Olivia Harris, Isabella Darby, Ellie Barrett & Chloe Bardsley.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Couple of familiar faces in the Wroxham squad with new names this season both through marriage, midfielder Jennifer Codman now Jennifer Drummie while the Fuller girl who was scoring all the goals in pre-season like she was Hannah Waters, is Hannah Waters (now Fuller) although I’m so used to writing Waters in my notes it’ll take a while to adjust. A new captain too for Wroxham with Becky Russell taking over as captain. Natalie Strange captaining Bowers & Pitsea this season.

  It’s the visitors to kick off the 1st half attacking up the slope with Bowers & Pitsea wearing red and white vertical striped shirts with red shorts and socks. Wroxham opposite lined up wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks. The ball pushed back into midfield played out to the right into Millie Isherwood held up and Libby Cooper gets up in support moving inside the ball rolled into her is fouled presenting Bowers & Pitsea with an early opportunity to push players up into the opposition box. 25 yards out to the right of the area Isherwood on the ball clips a high ball in towards the far post, over everyone and out of play for the goal kick. 

  Bowers & Pitsea fast to close Wroxham’s defence down at the start preventing the ball getting upfield. Leah Newcombe on the right clearing the ball up to Lauren Bullard in attack moving into the right channel for Wroxham squares it inside 20 yards out for Ella Gambell who in turn attempts to thread the ball through the Bowers & Pitsea defence onto Fuller right inside the box, Danielle Hindley sticking a foot out getting a nick on the ball to divert it back for her keeper to claim. 

 Gambell rolling her marker well on the left as she looks to take the ball on down the wing, Cooper in to close her down for Bowers & Pitsea. Albany Hodgson winning the ball at the back for Wroxham sending it long up to Fuller in attack right outside the box held up plays it back to Newcombe with Lara Densley coming over to support, Hindley tackling for the visitors the ball out for a throw in.

  Gambell with the ball left for Wroxham, checks inside passing central for Russell she opens her body to turn the ball into Fuller outside the D, Hindley close in tackling to win the ball back for Bowers & Pitsea cleared releases Whitney Locke, carrying the ball forwards well as they counter sends the ball inside for Darcy Drewitt making a central run in behind, goalkeeper Megan Gowing rushing out to close her down takes the ball wide of the keeper moving left looks to send the ball back across into the open goal, defenders racing back to try and clear their lines, the ball through rolls wide of the right post, an opportunity to open the scoring missed inside the opening 7 minutes.

Bowers & Pitsea’s Darcy Drewitt

  Ella Ford bringing the ball on for Bowers & Pitsea lifts it up to Locke breaking right, 20 yards out turns infield, Hodgson setting a leg out to tackle winning the ball well for the hosts. Gambell looking to get on down the left for Wroxham threatening to get onto the ball inside the box, Moore gets across her shielding the ball out of play Gambell hustling her is disappointed when a corner is given to Wroxham. A great in swinging corner from the left across the six yard box, Hodgson up to attack just a little too high gets her head to the ball but can’t direct it on target drops to the right of goal Bowers & Pitsea clear but can’t retain possession as Wroxham turn play around looking to carve their way through the middle, crowded, Bowers & Pitsea shut the door.

Wroxham defender, Albany Hodgson

  Strange playing the ball into midfield, helped on into Locke, has Megan Elwes making a run out to the right lays the ball into her feet reaching the top of the area crosses into towards the far post looking for Drewitt, too close to the keeper though, Gowing down well to lay claim to the ball in her six yard box. Bowers & Pitsea quick to build an attack getting the ball into midfield the diagonal pass fired up towards Isherwood left of the D, looks to control bring it down and spin off her marker, Newcombe though has read it backing off so she is ready to challenge as Isherwood turns.

  A intriguing contest both sides cancelling each other out to a degree, closing each other down, trying to use the width without getting any killer balls into the box. Bullard getting the ball into Fuller from the right 20 yards out over the ball sends her shot angling in towards goal straight into Stone’s gloves. Moments later a diagonal ball deep from the right from Wroxham wrong foots the Bowers and Pitsea defence leaving Fuller free inside the area one on one with the keeper, Stone staying big composed as Fuller trying to send the ball wide of her, saves well with the ball struck at her. 

Hannah Fuller with a one on one with the goalkeeper Hannah Stone

  Wroxham looking strong as they flood forwards attacking left the ball into Gambell drives infield 25 yards out curling a shot in towards goal looping up Stone again behind it backing up to claim the ball high.  Wroxham with two good chances to score in as many minutes. Bowers & Pitsea winning a free-kick the ball up to Drewitt outside the box, Rachel Cossey defending on her for Wroxham, the visitors press on the left winning the ball back send on for Drewitt in behind on the left, on her out looking for support Wroxham close her down en masse to clear.

Libby Cooper

Wroxham looking to counter with Cossey sending the ball out to Gambell on the left, good foot work to get away from her marker turning inside, Locke tracking back well to help her defence out regaining possession. Cooper up on the right with the ball at her feet for Bowers & Pitsea playing it on for Locke pulling wide moving into the corner fires a low cross into the six yard box Drewitt coming in central, Gowing down to save turning the ball behind for a corner kick. From the right dropping for Drewitt top of the area right side of the D. pulls the trigger, Bullard in the way blocks and clears.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Megan Gowing

  Bullard bringing the ball down well of her chest turning as it drops to lay the ball forwards for Fuller to attack bursting through the Bowers & Pitsea back line to the right of goal, Stone quickly off her line out to lay claim to the ball before it can be attacked. Hodgson sees the ball out for a corner as she defends with Cooper as Locke on the right lays the ball into her. The corner played into the top of the area from the right met in the air by Olivia Bilson a bullet header knocked down heading towards goal, Chelsea Clarke coming off the post to stick a leg out block the shot.

  Newcombe booked for Wroxham as Bowers & Pitsea are awarded a free-kick out wide on the left. The delivery sent long beyond the far post. The visitors winning another set-piece in a central position the ball fired up into the area, Gowing calls for it and coming claims well. Clarke breaking on the left for Wroxham with Gambell on the overlap, whipping a cross into the area intercepted by Bilson for Bowers & Pitsea. Fuller picking up a yellow card for Wroxham as they make a change with Densley coming off, Luci Middleton coming on.

  Elwes pushing up on the right with Locke as Bowers & Pitsea push forwards in attack looking to play a one two outside the box, Elmes can’t quite take the ball on past Wroxham’s Tigi Robson as Locke lays it back into her. Cossey charging down Harris as she lines up a strike from 20 yards out. Bowers & Pitsea upping the tempo towards the end of the 1st half but they are caught out as Wroxham turn play around sending a forwards pass long for Fuller breaking wide right fires the cross inside for Bullard in behind the defence Stone rushing out to the top of her area to close it down, Bullard dragging it wide of the keeper to put herself clear into the box rolls the ball in towards the open goal, defenders racing back to defend the line, between them Bilson and Hindley clear the ball for a corner on the left. In high to the far post Gambell rising heads the ball wide.

Wroxham’s Lauren Bullard

 

Hodgson playing a great ball out to Clarke on the left as the full back gets up the wing sending a good cross into the area, Stone getting up to catch it bring the ball down safely. The hosts building on the right Russell out to Bullard strikes the shot from 25 yards on the angle fired low wide past the far post. Both full backs looking to get on for Wroxham now Newcombe forwards on the right as Cossey and Russell link up trough the middle, Bowers & Pitsea defending seeing the ball out for a goal kick. 

Millie Isherwood

 Drewitt on through the middle for Bowers & Pitsea the pass out to Locke pulling right shoots on the angle a low drive in towards goal, Gowing down low to save. A change late in the 1st half for the visitors with Isabella Darby coming on for Hindley. Middleton combining with Bullard out on the right for Wroxham the ball fed back to Russell in the middle strikes from distance 30 yards plus fired wide across goal. Middleton with the ball on the right crossed in central Gambell not catching the volley cleanly the ball deflected safely into the box for the keeper to collect. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-0 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  All square at the break and fair enough on the balance of play however both sides with a gilt edged chance to score. Has been competitive with both sides cancelling each other out at times, enjoying good spells in attack looking to use the pitch without delivering too many killer balls both keepers called into action nevertheless looking comfortable. All set up for an exciting 2nd half.

  Both sides making changes at half-time a triple substitution for Wroxham with Jennifer Drummie, Ellie Overton along with Densley returning for Cossey and Newcombe and Bullard. A double switch for Bowers & Pitsea with Chloe Bardsley and Ellie Barrett on for Isherwood and Elwes. Wroxham to get the 2nd half underway put into Russell central sends it long for Gambell out left the visitors can see it safely out of play for a throw in, Wroxham taking it quickly down for Fuller knocks it inside for Middleton to strike on the volley from 25 yards on the angle her shot looping straight into the keeper. 

Luci Middleton lining up the volley for Wroxham

  Drummie bringing the ball on for Wroxham into space on the left lifting the diagonal ball into the box Stone keeping her eye on it taking it cleanly on the bounce not distracted by Fuller closing her down. Bowers & Pitsea get the ball down on the left, Locke now over on that side looknig to combine with Bardsley in attack shifting inside, Robson getting the tackle in for Wroxham top of the area. 

Tigi Robson defending for Wroxham

 Middleton seeing the ball into her 20 yards out flicking it out to Densley breaking clear into the box on the right, the flag going up against her as she chips the ball up over the keeper to cannon off the base of the far post. Bowers & Pitsea mount an attack on their left Cooper up with Locke the ball flashed across the top of the area collected by Drewitt right side, Clarke in to charge her down as she goes to shoot the ball deflected away for a corner. An in swinging ball high into the six yard box Gowing fouled as she rises to punch the ball. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Olivia Harris

  GOAL! Cooper carrying the ball forwards well for Bowers & Pitsea on the left covering the ground before flashing a shot wide across the six yard box as players pile forwards, retrieved by Bardsley out beyond the fire posts sends it back into the danger area, a spot of pinball ensues as Wroxham look to clear their lines rebounds straight to Ellie Barrett up on the right to strike the ball on the angle 20 yards out to race along the ground to find the bottom corner scoring her 1st senior goal to put the visitors into the lead 0-1.

Ellie Barrett with the opening goal for Bowers & Pitsea

  Bowers & Pitsea breaking the deadlock early in the 2nd half Wroxham straight on the attack from the restart the ball out left with Gambell and Fuller crossed into the area, Middleton inside the box looking to hook it over her shoulder from 12 yards out plants it wide of the far post. Cooper taking on the ball as Bowers & Pitsea look to counter taking it left fed on for Bardsley, Gowing though out to the edge of her area quickly to claim.

  Middleton releasing Densley racing away on right with the ball into space crossing into Russell central 20 yards out her shot blocked by Bilson well, and then again the defender sticking a leg out to deflect the ball as Russell retrieves it for a 2nd bite.   Changes for Bowers & Pitsea as they bring Isherwood and Drewitt back on for Locke and Moore. Game on with Bowers & Pitsea looking top extend their lead, the goal though sharpening Wroxham up as they look to close in for the ball. Middleton clashing with Cooper as they go up for the ball, a little blood to wash out of her mouth Middleton frustrated as she has to go off to come back on. 

Bowers & Pitsea’s Whitney Locke with Wroxham’s Ellie Overton

  Off the resulting drop ball, Isherwood is put clear on the left to send a cross looping into the six yard box won and cleared by Clarke for Wroxham. Middleton taking the ball on from Drummie drives on central before being taken out the advantage played as the ball drops to Densley free on the right she swings a cross into the area, caught high by Stone. Hodgson with a word from the referee as she brings down Isherwood top of the circle the ball lifted into the area, Bowers & Pitsea appealing for a penalty as Bilson is sent tumbling but the protests waved away as the visitors press the ball high Wroxham scrambling it clear Russell sending it up to Fuller pulling left, Barrett doing the defending for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Olivia Bilson

   Moore back into the action for Bowers & Pitsea replacing Ford. Isherwood left putting the ball on for Harris for Bowers & Pitsea on the left, Overton in to close her down win the challenge for the hosts carries the ball into the middle forwards into Middleton who in turn sends it on for Densley peeling away right, Moore tackling well for Bowers & Pitsea. 

Wroxham’s Lara Densley

  Wroxham with a strong spell, Bowers & Pitsea a little disjointed on the back foot conceding a corner on the left defended at the near post. Lily Alexander on now for Wroxham replacing Gambell on the left. Into the final 15 minutes Clarke rifling a shot in towards goal from range held by Stone in the Bowers & Pitsea goal. The assistant referee raising his flag the keeper carrying the ball over the line… for a corner. Not spotted by the referee at first play goes on as Wroxham protest… play brought back for the corner Bowers & Pitsea not happy.

  GOAL! The corner played into the area half cleared a Wroxham player lining up a shot from the left on the angle 25 yards out driven in low Stone down sharply to save only succeeds in pushing the ball across her goal into the path of Middleton the striker reacting instinctively to smash the ball back across goal and in to equalise 1-1. 

Luci Middleton with the equaliser for Wroxham

 Bowers & Pitsea furious with the decisions that led to the equaliser, captain Strange going into the book for her protests. Heated from the bench too and as play build on the right the referee stops proceeding to issue the Bowers & Pitsea manager with a red card. Bowers & Pitsea need to regain their composure winning a free-kick 25 yards out right of the goal. Harris over it goes for the shot sending the ball over the bar. 

  More frustration for the visitors as Drewitt feeds the ball through for Isherwood breaking into the box right of goal to strike a low shot past the keeper into the back of the net nut throws her head up in dismay as she sees the flag raised against her. Hodgson winning the ball strongly at the back for Wroxham pinging the long pass forwards for Fuller pulling wide left drills an angled shot in low towards the near post, Stone getting her leg in the way deflecting the ball into her side netting. Gambell back on for Wroxham going to the right in place of Densley.

 Wroxham on the front foot pushing forwards Overton with Densley on the right taking the ball past her on the overlap, squares a cross into the box a dummied header from Fuller sees the ball drop past her into Drummie central, Bilson in to close her down can’t dig the ball out from under her feet. Strange furious talks herself into trouble once again, this time though she is sent to the sin bin leaving Bowers & Pitsea down to 10 for the final 10 minutes.

  Clarke getting on well for Wroxham in the 2nd half gaining ground with the ball, Bilson out to close her down. Russell striking a shot wide from distance as the hosts look to use their player advantage. Fuller holds the ball up on the left for Wroxham looking for support, Russell offering it laid into her 20 yards out, Bilson tackling to win the ball back. Don’t keep it for long as Overton find Gambell on the right to cross the ball into the area for Fuller central looking to see the ball down catch it on the volley, puts her effort wide of the far post.

Wroxham’s Chelsea Clarke

  Getting feisty a few tempers flaring Bowers & Pitsea unhappy with how the game has gone on the back foot in the closing stages the game moving into stoppage time Wroxham pressing forwards winning the ball inside their opponents half.

 GOAL! Wroxham with the ball on the left Clarke bring it on with an inch perfect past over the top to put Fuller though on goal one on one with the keeper composed with a finishers instinct sends the ball past her into the back of the net and turns with her arms raised in celebration moment before being piled on by her joyous teammates 90+3 2-1!

Hannah Fuller celebrates after scoring the winner for Wroxham in stoppage time

Fuller piled on by her joyous teammates after her goal at the death

 Strange allowed back on as Wroxham have the ball on the corner on the right Gambell with Fuller looking to keep it in the corner win a throw then a corner kick taken short into Fuller knocked off her behind for a goal kick. Bowers & Pitsea mounting one last attack going right Clarke defending but the free-kick conceded players forwards the ball flung into the area knocked out and launched clear by Middleton as the final whistle blows. Wroxham coming back from a goal down to win at the death.

Luci Middleton launching the ball clear at the final whistle

Full time Wroxham Women 2-1 Bowers & Pitsea Ladies

  Wroxham coming from a goal down to win the game 2-1 at the death. Both sides with good opportunities to score in the first half nevertheless going into the changing rooms goalless at the break. Bowers & Pitsea getting their noses in front early in the 2nd half with both sides looking to score after that, Wroxham livening up after conceding as Bowers & Pitsea looked to extend their lead. A spot of controversy leading to the equaliser Bowers & Pitsea not happy with the awarding of the corner in the first place, incensed when it led to the goal their captain booked and manager sent off. Wroxham pushing hard in the final 10 minutes, Bowers & Pitsea reduced to 10 with Strange sin binned used the advantage pressing to the end Clarke’s inch perfect pass sending Fuller through on goal in stoppage time to score the winner. The result lifts Wroxham into 3rd in the table.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

 Onto this Sunday’s Women’ Football East – Player of the Match award. As often is the case a tough on to call with several strong performances on the pitch. A few to mention firstly for Bowers & Pitsea. Goalkeeper Hannah Stone with some great positioning and composure. Olivia Bilson with a number of strong challenges at the back to win the ball. Darcy Drewitt taking the ball on well as did Libby Cooper with Whitney Locke looking to make things happen out wide. For Wroxham, Luci Middleton made a real impact coming on late in the first half looking to get onto the ball set up others as well as for herself. Ella Gambell with some strong runs out wide. Hannah Fuller (I’ve deleted the W a dozen tomes while writing this report) a force in attack taking on the defence and pulling out wide to set up chances, scoring the winner. The award though goes to defender Chelsea Clarke won the ball well at the back putting in the blocks and a threat carrying the ball forwards an inch perfect pass to set up the winning goal.

Another enjoyable trip to Trafford Park my thanks to both clubs for their help today and hospitality. As I’ve come to expect another competitive and well contested game from the ERWFL Premier Division plenty of talent on show.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report -Mulbarton Belles Ladies v Wroxham Women

Sunday 19th March

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

A trip to Mulberry park this Sunday to watch one of this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup semi-finals as Mulbarton Belles Ladies vying to reach their 3rd successful final taking on ERWFL Premier Division side Wroxham Women.

The Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport will see the final held at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road stadium for the 3rd time on Friday 19th May, and with Norwich City Women themselves soon to get a long over due game at the stadium with a huge 4,000 tickets already sold, Norfolk FA will be hoping for a record crowd of their own in the final as the game continues to grow.

Norwich City Women and Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women contesting the other semi-final. Mulbarton Belles Ladies relatively new in just their 3rd season with Mulbarton FC taking them under their umbrella following the turmoil that lead to much of the first team leaving Thorpe United with manger Martin Francis. Reaching the county cup final in the past two season’s losing out to Norwich and Wymondham in those respective finals making a dream come true appearance at Carrow Road along the day will fancy their chances on home turf again despite taking on higher league opposition.

Going from strength to strength with the playing squad growing have added a Development and 7’s side which are both going strong in their respective Division’s. The 1st team defending champions in Division One closing in on leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women still with a 100% and 2 games in hand. Have yet to play the current leaders home or away and those games could likely determine who will be champions this time around. Ironically due to play Dussindale & Hellesdon today, postponed with both reaching the last 4 of the county cup. Rebekah Lake one of the best strikers in the county prolific in front of goal, currently with 14 this season has an equally potent strike partner up top with her now with Francesca Catchpole joining following the ad collapse of Wymondham Town Ladies. Hitting the ground running with her new club with 15 goals from 8 appearances.

Wroxham Women too bringing in another top quality striker following the withdrawal of Wymondham Town Ladies with Hannah Waters moving to Trafford Park. Vastly experienced, similar to Lake in her movement pulling into the channels, difficult to mark and floating across the back line ready to attack Has 12 goals so far from 13 appearances. Wroxham vying to reach their 1st county cup final entering the competition at the quarter final stage the ERWFL side putting opponents Fakenham Town Ladies to the sword with a dominant 11-0 win both Waters and young attacker Holly Connell scoring hat-tricks.

Joe Simpson coming in to manage at the start of the season, Wroxham have brought in several new faces to the squad with several young players with experience with Norwich at youth level, a handful from Simpson’s ex-club King’s Lynn Town Ladies and from Wymondham, Water’s along with defender Lauren Kett and midfielder Jennifer Codman. Defender Albany Hodgson the latest to sign on with FAWNL experience with Cambridge United WFC. Results have varied in the league as the squad evolves but with a great blend of experience and youth definitely has lots of potential. Both sides will fancy their chances today and certainly won’t be taking anything for granted.

Mulberry Park the venue for this Sunday’s semi-final contest, beside the Common in Mulbarton he village hall and social club along side the ground with a large clubhouse housing the changing rooms. A small covered seated stand beside the grass pitch with the Tea Hut open serving hot drinks and snacks. The grass pitch holding up well despite seeing alot of action and rain overnight. No rain forecast for this afternoon although it remains cloudy and dull above but relatively mild with no wind.

Mulbarton Belles Ladies

 Mulbarton Belles Ladies starting XI – Cara Anderson, Melissa Belsey, Olivia Smith, Megan Belsey, Lucy Lincoln, Laura Hedtke, Ellie Hunter, Sophie Jermy, Molly Ryan, Francesca Catchpole & Rebekah Lake (C). Subs – Annie Smith, Emma Farmer, Alice Ladbrooke, Charlotte Groves & Lucy Kean.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Breanna Rudd, Tigi Robson, Lauren Kett, Albany Hodgson, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell (C), Lara Densley, Hayley Kindred, Holly Connell & Hannah Waters. Subs – Jess Horn, Lauren Bullard, Zara O’Neill, Holly Walker & Lucy Bradford.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

Captain’s Becky Russell & Rebekah Lake with the officials before kick-off

  A decent sized crowd in attendance the Tea Hut busy, it’s the hosts Mulbarton to get the first half underway wearing blue and black vertical striped shirts with blue coloured shorts and socks. Wroxham normally in blue themselves in their away strip today, spearmint green shirts with black across the shoulders and sleeves with black shorts and socks. Lake playing the back back into midfielder Laura Hedtke the ball send long out to the right for Molly Ryan to attack, Tigi Robson clearing back into the middle for Wroxham. Both sides moving in to close the ball down Albany Hodgson winning it right side send forwards for Hayley Kindred, Olivia Smith in to tackle for Mulbarton the ball going out for a throw.

Mulbarton’s Olivia Smith

  Wroxham pressing Mulbarton inside their own half winning a throw wide left, played into Holly Connell central looks to put the ball out right for Kindred burst forwards, Smith closing her down to charge the ball down going away for a throw in. Wroxham lively on the flanks at the start Kindred getting some joy on the right, breaks into the area, Lucy Lincoln tracking back to defend putting the foot in to block the ball take it out of play. 

  Mulbarton get the ball into Hedtke the midfielder lifting it forwards for Ryan getting up into the box on the right, Robson back to defend for Wroxham clearing, Wroxham quick to get it on through the middle out to Kindred attacking on the right winning the throw. The visitors working the ball down the line before swinging a cross into the six yard box, Cara Anderson with the confident claim in the Mulbarton goal. 

Jennifer Codman battling for possession in the middle for Wroxham, Lara Densley in support the ball finding it’s way to Kindred on the right has Waters making a run across the defence into the right channel ahead of her calling for the ball, Kindred threading the pass into the striker taking it on into the box, Lincoln going with her stretching to challenge deny her a shot on goal. From the resulting throw on the right the low cross driven into the area is again taken comfortably by Anderson.

Wroxham’s Jennifer Codman

  A lively opening 5 minutes to the match, Mulbarton send lake away on the right wing bombing forwards, Lauren Kett blocks her cross. Kindred a god outlet for Wroxham on the right wide picked out with the pass sends it inside for the one two with Waters, bursting forwards getting onto the end of the return pass lifts her diagonal ball from the corner of the box high in towards goal, Anderson keeping her eye on it catching well s Connell closes in fast. Wroxham’s captain Becky Russell with a good run into the channel right side whipping a cross into the box, no one there to attack it.

Wroxham’s Albany Hodgson (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Anderson the busier of the two goalkeepers, needing to come racing out to the top of her area to clear as Connell puts through a great ball for Waters to nick half a yard on the Mulbarton defence. Anderson with another catch from a Kindred cross on the right as Codman picks her out with the pass. Sophie Jermy getting hold of the ball in the final 3rd for Mulbarton right of goal 20 yards out pulls the trigger, Hodgson getting behind it to block for Wroxham inside the box.

Mulbarton’s Sophie Jermy

   Kett with the interception at the back central for Wroxham as Smith sends the diagonal ball on from left back. Mulbarton getting some joy with direct play through the middle the pass fed on sees Catchpole pulling of the defence to attack the box, Wroxham goalkeeper, Cyan Fullbrook rushing out to close her down with a brave save at the strikers feet to prevent her getting through on goal. 

Wroxham defender Lauren Kett looking to stop Rebekah Lake’s attack on the right (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  GOAL! Moments later Mulbarton hit Wroxham on the counter breaking forwards on the right players getting forwards Jermy playing the ball on for Lake bursting into the box from the right, pulls the trigger the shot lashed in towards goal, Fullbrook with the spectacular save diving to her left to keep out the ball, knocked back out of the areas players rushing back to protect the goal Fullbrook scrambling back to her feet,  Molly Ryan latches onto the ball outside the box getting her foot over it to rifle it into the back of the net 1-0.

Mulbarton celebrating after Molly Ryan fires them into the lead

 Mulbarton ahead in the 17th minute, a blow for Wroxham after a positive start to the game. frustrated as a free-kick is awarded on the right high up the pitch, Mulbarton taking it quickly fed up the line for Lake, the ball seen out for play by Robson, Wroxham further incensed when a corner is awarded. The ball flung in near side Lincoln up with the header sending it back out wide to the corner taker the 2nd attempt at a cross finding Lake top of the D, can’t get a shot away instead rolls it into Catchpole inside the box wide left, shifts the ball onto her right foot before attempting to curl a shot into the to corner the ball sailing wide of the post. 

Mulbarton attacker, Francesca Catchpole

  Mulbarton with their tails up after taking the lead the game remains lively, Densley playing the pass out to Kindred on the right touch line  powerful run with the ball under pressure from Smith sends her cross behind. Wroxham looking to use the pitch moving the ball forwards at pace Robson with a superb diagonal pass to Kindred right side heading for the box is fouled by Lincoln as she slides in to challenge the free-kick awarded. Floated in towards the far post area attacked but knocked behind for the goal kick.

   Robson attacking on the left for Wroxham with Connell, Densley taking it on bursting into the box, Megan Belsey defending for Mulbarton conceding the corner. Attacked at the near post headed on central an infringement spotted play stopped the free-kick going Mulbarton’s way. An ambitious Wroxham pass finding Connell out on the right having swapped flanks with Kindred, stretching for the ball a heavy first touch giving Lincoln a chance to get to the ball first and clear for Mulbarton.

Wroxham striker Hannah Waters, attempting to get in between the Belsey twins, Megan & Melissa (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Kindred out on the left is fouled halfway inside the Mulbarton half. Over the set-piece herself sends a low shot angling in towards the near post, Anderson getting across to grab it safely into her gloves. Wroxham seeing more of the ball Codman linking up with Russell in the middle the pass finding Connell central plays it into the path of Waters breaking into the right channel, Lincoln going with her Smith backing her up no way through Waters turns to keep possession laying the ball back inside to Connell her shot charged down, Russell latching onto the loose ball trying her luck from range Mulbarton again charging the ball down, appeals for handball this time, no joy. 

Wroxham captain, Becky Russell (photo credit Daniel Kett)

Codman getting onto the ball for Wroxham forwards for Connell central has Russell making the run across her plays the pass on, Hedtke tracking back to make the blocking tackle for Mulbarton. Melissa Belsey on the right of the Mulbarton defence putting in a great tackle on Russell as the Wroxham captain gets forwards to receive a Densley pass following a clearance from Kett at the back. Catchpole intercepting a poor kick out from the box by Fullbrook on the left going to strike the ball early from 25 yards pulls her attempt wide of the left post. 

Mulbarton’s Francesca Catchpole

  Wroxham getting frustrated seeing more of the ball haven’t yet been able to carve open a clear opportunity in front of goal. Mulbarton sitting back adsorbing alot of pressure ready to spring on the counter. That frustration shown as Lake is chopped down in the middle, the Mulbarton captain staying down in need of treatment. Half-time fast approaching Lake is taken off to be assessed with Emma Farmer coming on. Lincoln to launch the resulting free kick. Headed clear by Kett top of the area the ball launched out to Connell looking to break on the right, Smith getting across to tackle for Mulbarton. Hodgson stretching into the tackle as she looks to beat Catchpole to the ball is late catching the player picking up the first yellow card of the game.

 

Half-time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 1-0 Wroxham Women

Laura Hedtke with Wroxham’s Lara Densley

  Molly Ryan’s strike in the 17th minute the difference between the two sides going into the break with Wroxham heading back to the changing rooms, Mulbarton staying out on the pitch. A frustrating 1st half from Wroxham’s point of view seeing more of the ball moving it about the park well enough just haven’t been able to get that final ball into the box get numbers in on the hosts defence. Mulbarton sitting back making sure they leave no room in behind letting Wroxham come on picking their moments to get forwards not over committing players to the attack. Taking their chance when it came their way. A long way to go with a single goal in it both sides with good options to bring on from the bench if called upon.

  The sides back out, Lake back on for Mulbarton with Farmer off. No changes for Wroxham as the visitors get the 2nd half underway. The ball put back into Codman in the middle lifts the ball on to the right channel, Hedtke adjudged to have handled the ball as she goes to clear, Wroxham presented with an early opportunity to put pressure on the Mulbarton goal. Kett on it spotting Connell free making a run up the right wing her cross swung into a crowded penalty box cut out at the near post going behind for a corner.

Lifted into the six yard box over everyone attacking the near post drops towards the far post with Densley free from Wroxham having to turn to get onto the ball runs away from her as she goes to strike it spinning wide of the post. Wroxham strong at the start of the 2nd half attacking on the right winning another corner. Put in towards the top of the area the ball dropping loose the shot struck, Ryan charging it down for Mulbarton attempting to get away with out to the right.

Mulbarton’s Molly Ryan

 Wroxham quick to win the ball back get back on the offensive the crossfield ball out to the right Kindred getting a throw high up the pitch. The defence stretched Wroxham pressing forwards play drawn to the right the ball clipped back into the box sees Connell free central to rush in on the keeper, the bounce of the ball deceiving her spinning away to the left, the Mulbarton defence getting back to challenge the ball turned behind for a corner. Put in towards the near post defended by Hedtke back out to the left flung back into the box, the header driven in towards the left post Hedtke their covering the post defending nodding it behind for another corner.

Wroxham’s Holly Connell (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  All Wroxham in the early stages of the 2nd half the corner put high into the box on the keeper, nodded over as Waters goes down attacking it. Codman picking up the loose ball in the centre picking the pass forwards up for Waters inside the D, dropping Lincoln slicing her clearance as she goes to clear caught by Anderson at her near post. A busy opening 10 minutes to the start of the 2nd half dominated by Wroxham. Good foot work from Kindred on the ball on the right for Wroxham getting away from her marker to square a low cross into the area, intercepted by Lincoln in ahead of Waters.

Hayley Kindred (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Densley central finding Connell on the left for Wroxham attempts to fed the low pass into the box for Waters, Anderson sharp out of her six yard box to collect before Waters can reach it. Mulbarton working hard at the back with little opportunity to get forwards spring a counter attack Hedtke with Hunter the ball forwards Lake racing away clear left channel in behind, Fullbrook rushing out comes along way doesn’t get there as Lake lifts the ball over her the defence racing back grateful to see the ball run wide of the far post.

Mulbarton’s captain, Rebekah Lake

 Decisions going against Wroxham adding to their general frustration, Mulbarton spurred on by a buoyant crowd, Hunter on for Jermy lifted into Lake drifting right seeing the ball down into her feet turns to release Ryan on the wing, Robson lunging in to tackle for Wroxham the ball gone for the throw. Connell looking to battle her way through on the right as she and Megan Belsey go shoulder to shoulder at the back the defender holding her off conceding a corner. 

  The delivery from the corner played in towards the penalty spot Jermy gets her head on it for Mulbarton, knocking it down towards the top of the area then rushes out to charge down the resulting shot, Densley getting hold of the loose ball sending it over to the right a shot on the angle blasted in across goal wide of the left post. Hedtke fouled inside her D, Wroxham far from happy as another decision goes against them. The visitors making a change brining off Densley in the middle sending on Zara O’Neill. 

Mulbarton’s Ellie Hunter with Hayley Kindred

  Hunter in the middle for Mulbarton playing the pass out to Lake on the right, Kett across to tackle for Wroxham the the throw conceded. Mulbarton lifting a high cross into the area from it, Fullbrook catching unopposed. Midway through the 2nd half Wroxham for all their possession unable to find the break through increasingly frustrated, manager Simpson carded as he voices his dismay. A game of attrition at times both sides working hard, Wroxham to find  goal, Mulbarton to defend their lead. Scrappy with fouls being given away. 

 

  Connell up on the left channel supporting Waters through the middle the striker played in through the Mulbarton defence, Anderson comes racing out to the top of her area sliding it to save at the strikers feet the the pair coming together the ball loose for a moment Waters snapping at it as Anderson goes to grab it the referee stopping play with the keeper hurt. Megan Belsey also struggling with an injury after the last Wroxham attack both players needing treatment. Wroxham making a double switch Codman and Rudd off for Holly Walker and Densely returning to the action.

Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

  Anderson slowly back to her feet, Belsey too hobbling to the side lines trying to run her injury off waiting to be called back on as play resumes. Play resumes with Wroxham getting forwards on the right Kindred to the by-line wrapping her foot around the ball to cross, the ball looping up onto the roof of the Mulbarton net. Kindred down after the attack holding her leg clearly picking up n injury is quickly assessed can’t play on needs to come off Lauren Bullard comes on for the visitors. 

 

  Waters stealing into the box looking to capitalise on a too short a back pass from the Mulbarton defence right of goal in ahead of Anderson diving to her left plants the ball into the side netting. Walker making her presence felt on the left for Wroxham strong to get hold of the ball, played central into Bullard back to Russell who attempts a shot from distance, not on. Waters drifting to the left with Bullard playing through the middle, whips a cross into the six yard box, is behind Connell closing in far post, Bullard deeper rushing onto the ball, her shot blocked by Lincoln. 

Becky Russell and Megan Belsey (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Anderson has been strong inside her six yard box all game and does well to claim the ball high as it is crossed in from the left with Waters on top of her. The game stretched Mulbarton tiring both Belsey sisters carrying a knock fighting for the ball O’Neill up to Waters her flick on finding Walker free on the left, Anderson rushing to close her down doing enough as Walker snatches her shot wide. Melissa Belsey coming off for Mulbarton with Farmer coming into the defence with  little over 8 minutes left to play.

  Wroxham pushing for the equaliser, Mulbarton working hard in defence to keep them at bay. Walker with fresh legs out on Wroxham’s leg showing great footwork to get the ball onto her favoured foot and shoot from distance the ball swerving nevertheless taken well low by Anderson. Lake doing what she can up top to run the ball down into the corner hold it up relieve the pressure.

Lara Densley (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Ryan attempting to bring the ball away on the right for Mulbarton is brought down by Walker. On halfway put in towards the top of the Wroxham area Hedtke heads it down for Lake right racing on to the by-line winning a late corner. Mulbarton keeping the ball in the corner eating up seconds the hoe crowd willing them on. Wroxham get possession back look to get on the attack through the middle Waters heading the ball on for Bullard, Megan Belsey getting a foot out to intercept for Mulbarton. 

  The clock ticking down Wroxham throwing everything forwards a throw high on the right put inside for Waters to take inside top of the area on the move tries to wrong foot everyone by striking the ball goalwards with the outside of her boot, in low hasn’t the pace to trouble Anderson as she drops to her left to smother the ball. Wroxham winning a free-kick top of the circle every one up into the area bar the goalkeeper the ball won by Catchpole headed clear.

  Mulbarton attempting to break Lake picked out running away right side, Connell rushing back to defend, tackling for Wroxham. Into stoppage time Wroxham threading the ball on for Waters central to run clear of the Mulbarton defence after the ball, Anderson comes right to the edge of her area gloves out ready to catch poised to claim just as Waters gets her toe to the ball knocks it on as striker and keeper collide a heavy blow for Anderson, Lincoln back around to clear the ball away to the right as Waters attempts to clear the keeper, everyone goes up appeals for everything, no penalty Wroxham are incensed, play stopped Anderson down hurt from the collision. A hard one to call who’d be a referee everyone sees it from a different angle only one opinion counts.

Cara Anderson taking a heavy knock following her coming together with Hannah Waters

  Anderson needs time to get back to her feet will be sporting a few bruises in the morning. Megan Belsey needs to come off however with Charlotte Groves on. Wroxham are not happy as Mulbarton have the free kick. The ball played forwards Hedtke going up to win it fouled a controversial end to the game as the final whistle blows and Mulbarton celebrate as they reach a 3rd successive County Cup final.

Full time Mulbarton Belles Ladies 1-0 Wroxham Women

  Mulbarton will face Norwich City Women in the Carrow Road final after they beat Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women 5-0 at The Nest. A battling performance from Mulbarton who had to dig deep in the 2nd half as Wroxham piled on the pressure. Working hard at the back to defend their 1-0 lead with Molly Ryan firing them ahead in the 1st half. Wroxham came on strong 2nd half seeing plenty of the ball but rarely carving Mulbarton open with Anderson proving to be a hard last defence to unlock in goal. Had the equaliser come early in the 2nd half then that would have opened up the game but that all important break through wouldn’t come. Feeling decisions weren’t going their way Wroxham will feel hard done by at the death but it was a hard call to make, in my opinion the referee got it right, I know several of you will disagree but without seeing the incident again who knows.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Was a hard working battling performance from both sides who gave it their all. Alot put into the game. For Wroxham, Hayley Kindred was outstanding on the right getting on, making good runs and ready availability to receive the ball. Jennifer Codman put herself about in the middle to win possession of the ball and get attacks going. Tigi Robson with some great defensive work on the left. For Mulbarton the defence was strong putting their all into keeping their lead secure. Laura Hedtke through the middle and getting back to defend on set-pieces. Today’s award though goes to goalkeeper Cara Anderson was strong inside her box with good calling for the ball and confident claims early on. Putting her body on the line rushing out to defend getting a far few knocks for her efforts.

Mulbarton through to their 3rd successive County Cup final

 

 A enjoyable afternoon at Mulberry Park, a good atmosphere. A welcoming club my thanks to both sides for their help with the team details, knew everyone but I always like to check, because you soon pull me up if I get somebodies name wrong! Additional thanks to Daniel Kett for use of his pictures in todays report. Norwich City Women v Mulbarton Belles Ladies in the County Cup Final on Friday 19th May promises to be a great occasion hopefully I will see you there.

by Darren Gilham

 

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Fakenham Town Ladies

Sunday 19th February

Norfolk Women’s County Cup sponsored by Harrod Sport

Quarter finals weekend in this season’s Norfolk Women’s County Cup. 4 strong ties with the seeded teams entering the competition. Today’s fixture featuring an all ERWFL line up with Premier Division sides Wroxham Women taking on ERWFL newcomers Fakenham Town Ladies for a place in the last 4 of the cup.

 Sponsored by Harrod Sports the Norfolk Women’s County Cup final will once again take place at Norwich City FC’s, Carrow Road stadium. Hosting the final twice previously, Wymondham Town Ladies winning on both occasions. Wymondham one of the seeded teams, the holders have since very sadly folded thus a new side will lift the trophy on Friday 19th May. A resurgent Norwich City Women looking the hot favourites to vying to reach Carrow Road for the first time in the competition, with ERWFL Premier Division sides, Wroxham Women and King’s Lynn Town Ladies the other seeded teams.

 The quarter final draw pitting two of those seeded teams together with Norwich City Women hosting King’s Lynn Town Ladies. Two county level sides are guaranteed a place in the last 4 of the cup with last season’s finalists Mulbarton Belles Ladies hosting Thetford Town Ladies. While Norfolk Division One leaders Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women are away to Division Two side KLSC FC Women.

Wroxham Women themselves looking to get to the County Cup final for the 1st time. Have had an up and down season in the ERWFL Premier Division, sitting in mid-table under new manager Joe Simpson alot of new players have joined and it has taken time to settle. Have a good blend of youth and experience, able to bring in a trio of ex-Wymondham players in striker Hannah Waters, midfielder Jennifer Codman and defender Lauren Kett to further strengthen the squad. Waters top scorer with 11 goals from 11 appearances. The County Cup representing a strong opportunity for silverware.

  Fakenham Town Ladies entering the Norfolk Women’s County Cup in the previous round, a potential banana skin away to a young and exciting looking Sprowston FC Women, however goals from, Nicole Costin, Sophie Lubbock and Chloe Gravett saw Fakenham come out on top of a physical tie reach the last 8 of the competition. Winning the League Cup last season Fakenham have moved up into regional league football for the 1st time. Has been a steep learning curve but one the squad has relished despite making a poor start losing their opening 5 games have rallied well working hard with a run of positive results in November to carry into the new year plus a good run in the ERWFL League Cup. Sophie Lubbock top scorer with 10 with Chloe Gravett on 9. Today’s County Cup game another stern test.

  The venue for today’s game the FDC in Bowthorpe, having previously been on at The Open FDC in Sprowston. Wroxham Women usually playing at Trafford Park along side Wroxham FC the grass pitch has seen alot of action and in need of a little TLC, and with fixture slots running out for Wroxham Women and the Trafford Park pitch receiving a little attention the decision was made to switch venues. Norfolk FA’s FDC (Football Development Centres) spread out about the city and beyond across the county. Providing playing pitches for a number of clubs and communities. The FDC in Bowthorpe boasting the Harrod Sport Arena the large 3G pitch hosting a number of finals with viewing on three sides a small seated stand with the clubhouse beyond serving hot and cold drinks. Brilliant weather considering it’s February, bright and sunny with the sun low in the sky, no wind perfect playing conditions.

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Cyan Fullbrook, Breanna Rudd, Lucy Bradford, Jess Horn (C), Tigi Robson, Zara O’Neill, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell, Lauren Bullard, Holly Connell & Hannah Waters. Subs – Lara Densley, Holly Walker, Keela Olive, Ellie Overton & Lauren Kett.

Fakenham Town Ladies

Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI – Ciah-Lilly Rudkin, Maddie Smith, Amie Hutchinson, Jemma Riches (C), Sian Sands, Nicole Costin, Vicky Lubbock, Chloe Gravett, Ruby Curtis, Shelley Woods & Sophie Lubbock. Subs – Tilly Betts Hayley Marjoram, Olivia Baker, Megan Spurrell & Holly Davies

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Both sides naming a strong starting line-up with 5 each on the bench. Wroxham with the kick-off first half attacking into the sun with the right side of the pitch well shaded by high trees, the ‘hosts’ wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Fakenham lined up opposite wearing Amber coloured shirts with black sleeves, black shorts and socks. The ball rolled back to captain Jess Horn in the defence, sprays her pass long out to the right for Lauren Bullard to attack, Fakenham close her down the ball cleared.

  GOAL! Wroxham come straight back at Fakenham on the right the ball won in midfield forwards for Bullard has Becky Russell up with her inside the ball knocked into the midfielder releases it forwards for striker Hannah Waters to pull off the defence right of goal and strike the ball low across the keeper, Fakenham’s Ciah-Lilly Rudkin down smartly to try and get something on the ball, not enough and it deflected up off her into the bottom corner. Wroxham a goal up inside the opening minute 1-0.

Hannah Waters scoring in the opening minute for Wroxham (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  The perfect start to the cup tie for Wroxham and they stay on the front foot closing the ball down in the middle getting on on rapidly players running at the Fakenham defence Bullard right side crossing into the box long gathered by Waters beyond the far post, lays it back to the top of the D for midfielder Zara O’Neill, shoots her attempt blocked by Fakenham captain, Jemma Riches. Jennifer Codman once with Fakenham before moving on to enjoy a successful spell with Wymondham now with Wroxham attacks on the left linking up with full back Breanna Rudd, Ruby Curtis getting in amongst the pair to regain possession for Fakenham. 

Fakenham’s Ruby Curtis

  All Wroxham at the start the game condensed in the middle the ball won are quick to get on the counter with Bullard, Waters and Holly Connell all showing good movement and pace in attack. Connell winning a corner on the right, players up into the box the delivery floated in towards the penalty spot a decisive header clear from Fakenham’s Shelley Woods. With Wroxham pushing Fakenham back keeping them inside their own half getting out is proving difficult, Nicole Costin finding Chloe Gravett out wide left looks to get on with the ball stopped by Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Woods with another clearance inside the box from a Wroxham corner on the right. Codman with a heavy tackle on Smith as the Fakenham defender comes to clear the ball. Sophie Lubbock up top for Fakenham is somewhat isolated looking to plough her own furrow whenever the ball comes into her feet, turns well on the right looking to drive for the box, Rudd getting back on her to challenge the ball gone for a throw. Wroxham alive to the counter attack the defence having runners left and right Bullard picked out right side down the line her cross into the top of the area a vital interception from Riches with Waters ready to take it on behind.

Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

  Fakenham mount an attack on the left Gravett winning a throw high up the pitch combines with Sophie Lubbock the cross put long into the six yard box, Curtis attacking the far post can’t quite get anything on it. Wroxham send it clear the counter attack sprung, Connell with a good show of pace bombing on right side her cross whipped into the six yard box, Rudkin down low to make a safe claim. Russell over on the left for Wroxham on down the line for Waters moving into the corner, plays it back up the line for Russell to play the pass into her path as she runs into the box heading for the by-line Riches comes steaming in to make the blocking tackle the ball gone for a corner kick. Russell slicing her cross from the corner the ball swerving across the top of the area cleared by Sian Sands.

  GOAL! Wroxham capitalise on their fast start to the game by racing into a 2 goal lead, this one all about pace. The ball won inside the Wroxham half with Fakenham pushed up the pass threaded through the middle for Connell to chase, has the speed to out pace the defence to run onto the box right of the D, Rudkin racing out to try and close her down, Connell composed slotting the ball past her to find the back of the net beyond 2-0.

Holly Connell racing away to score Wroxham’s 2nd

  15 minutes on the clock Wroxham 2 goals to the good and looking strong taking the game to Fakenham. Gravett coming left getting the throw, Sophie Lubbock with the turn and dribbles the ball all the way into the box before being tackled by O’Neill. Sands racing on looking to get hold of the loose ball, can’t get a shot away, nor can Vicky Lubbock as the midfielder presses up into the box, Wroxham scrambling the ball to safety. 

Fakenham’s Sophie Lubbock

 Codman tackling Sophie Lubbock sets up a counter releasing Connell on the right to power her way to the by-line Rudkin coming out to close her down does well sliding in at her feet winning getting the goal kick. Smith at the back cutting out Rudd’s pass for Waters looking to steal in behind on the left. Curtis has picked up an injury for Fakenham looks to be a hamstring can’t continue the away side making their first change Megan Spurrell coming on to the right of midfield. Fouled as soon as she gets on the ball Fakenham have a free-kick on half way, Smith to play the ball up to Sophie Lubbock, brings it down 25 out passing it to Spurrell wide right, Rudd getting into her to tackle for Wroxham.

  The foul count beginning to add up for a few players on both sides, as yet now malice just a competitive affair. Gravett needed to help out at the back for Fakenham aswell as attack on the flank does well to get her head on the ball to cut out O’Neill’s diagonal ball intended to set Connell away on the wing. Fakenham rarely press Wroxham in front of their box but when they van get forwards in numbers that looks to be where they will get the most joy. Connell’s pace a threat, Gravett able to match it this time as she races back to put the ball out for a throw. 

  GOAL! Wroxham off a throw in on the left Waters takes the ball on her cross fired across the top of the area for Bullard, Gravett lunging in to block her shot the ball deflected behind for a corner on the right. The delivery sent in near post area skipping up off the surface met by Codman to twist her neck and send her header into the goal 3-0.

Jennifer Codman with Wroxham’s third goal

  Wroxham pressing their advantage 3 up midway through the first half win the ball straight from the restart coming left Connell wide right inside for Bullard, Hutchinson blocking her shot from 20 yards out. 

Fakenham’s Nicole Costin

  GOAL! Fakenham are unsettled losing possession inside their own half Wroxham pushing their midfielders on the ball rolled inside from the right into O’Neill, 25 plus yards out isn’t closed down puts her foot through the ball getting plenty of power behind it the ball sailing into the back of the net 4-0.

Zara O’Neill with the strike from distance (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Fakenham’s Vicky Lubbock winning the ball inside the Wroxham half pressing forwards on for Spurrell coming inside from the right goes back across the pitch to Gravett left who aims to play the ball on for Lubbock continuing her run through the middle, Tigi Robson getting across the midfielder to tackle send the ball behind for a corner kick. Fakenham make a bit of a mess of the resulting corner failing to get a cross in but from the resulting throw Gravett drags the ball inside before sending a decent strike wide across the face of the Wroxham goal.

Tigi Robson

  Robson pressing on from the back getting a favourable deflection off a 50/50 ball to run in behind the defence left side playing the pass on for Waters who skips inside into the box bearing down on the near post shots low, Hutchinson diving in to try and cut it out not putting off Rudkin beyond who is down sharply to make the stop. Russell with a shot from 30 yards out left side bouncing wide of goal. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Spurrell is getting on better on the right for Fakenham pressing high her challenge seeing the ball rebound off a defender with Sophie Lubbock alert to run onto it inside the box and strike it on the angle low towards goal, Cyan Fullbrook with little to do so far has it covered as she drops to claim. 

Fakenham’s Megan Spurrell

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham are thinking they might get some joy in attack they are hit with a further blow pushed up are hit on the counter attack as Waters running through the defence beats the offside trap to head for a one on one with the advancing Rudkin, Waters with Riches on her shoulder touching the ball around the keeper, going right towards the six yard box, Riches wrong side can’t get to the ball as Waters calmly sends it home for her 2nd of the game.

A first half brace for Wroxham’s Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Bradford with a robust challenge of Vicky Lubbock in the centre that sees the Fakenham midfielder down in some pain clutching her shoulder. A lengthy pause for treatment. Is unable to continue Fakenham forced into another change with Olivia Baker coming on late in the first half. From the resulting free-kick top of the centre circle Woods has only one intention to take on the shot hit well but wide. 

  Rudd with a quality diagonal pass to pick out Bullard on the move right side stretching the Fakenham defence her cross whipped in dangerous at the near post, Rudkin with the save of the half an excellent stop at close range… as the header is deflected goalwards off the back tracking Riches head (might be a pint owed there). Smith the latest Fakenham player to receive a heavy blow but is up after a moment’s recovery.

Chloe Gravett with Lauren Bullard

  Riches with a well timed tackle on Waters left of the box as Codman looks to send the ball on. Bradford bringing down Gravett on the right picks up a yellow card for persistent fouling. The free-kick wide on the left in the closing stages of the first half Costin on the ball goes for goal her attempt landing on the roof of the net. 

Half-time Wroxham Women 5-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

 

  Wroxham in control of the quarter final tie going into the half-time interval with a strong 5 goal lead. Have looked the stronger from the opening minute taking the lead and going on to score at regular intervals throughout the first half. A dominant display from the midfield getting the ball into the attacking three quickly with the pace up top causing Fakenham issues. Penned back inside their own half getting forwards has been a challenge the ball all to often coming back quickly. Alot of work for Fakenham to do if they are to have any chance of getting back into it. Wroxham though can control the pace of the 2nd half.

(photo credit Daniel Kett)

  No more changes for either side as they come out for the 2nd half. Spurrell and Baker coming on for Fakenham in the first half through injuries to Curtis and Vicky Lubbock. Fakenham to get the 2nd period underway the ball into Costin back to Hutchinson in defence lifted forwards to the left, cut out by Bradford for Wroxham. 

 Russell turning on the ball in midfield for Wroxham looking to play the ball into Waters up top, cut out well by Riches. Bullard out wide on the right seeing the ball deflected back into her path strikes it on the angle Rudkin back on her line collecting it into her gloves as it skips up in front of her. Sands into Costin on for Baker, Fakenham building a solid attack, Baker pushing forwards aiming for Gravett, Horn coming to close her down tackling the ball out for a throw. From the resulting throw on the left Baker sees it cross her body well hitting the pass in across the top of the D, Woods looking to turn onto it a strike as it bounces up off the surface, Horn throwing herself forwards to knock it out of her path.

Fakenham’s Olivia Baker

  GOAL! Just as Fakenham look to be getting some momentum going forwards they are hit with another sucker punch as Wroxham hit them on the counter the ball played on rapidly through the middle on for Connell central to run clear of the defence and run on for another one on one with the keeper, Rudkin diving in trying to get the ball Connell squeezing it past her and seeing it run on into the goal beyond to net her 2nd of the game 6-0.

  A pause in play as Gravett picks up a head injury, time taken to be accessed before being allowed to continue. Riches needs to make the ball hers at the back for Fakenham as Connell hooks one forwards for Waters to attack left of the D, the defender winning her clearance sending the ball wide for a throw. Waters gathering the ball on the left driving on stopped by Smith for Fakenham. Again Fakenham look a threat when pressing the Wroxham back line forcing errors Fullbrook’s kick out from the goal falling straight to Costin left of the box 25 yards out, drags her shot wide of the near post.

Becky Russell holding off Jemma Riches

Woods with the ball in an advanced position on the left for Fakenham sending an angled cross into the top of the area, a glancing header from Horn as she goes to clear the ball enough to deflect it away from Sophie Lubbock to her left. Wroxham make their first change of the game Codman coming off to be replaced by Lara Densley. Riches getting her foot in to tackle Connell top of the D.

Fakenham captain Jemma Riches (photo credit Daniel Kett)

GOAL! Wroxham further extend their lead as they build well on the left players getting on to support Waters the attacker striking the ball from the left corner of the area to see it race across the goal into the bottom corner to complete her hat-trick. 7-0.

A hat-trick for Hannah Waters (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Wroxham 7 goals to the good both sides ringing the changes Fakenham bringing 3 off, Smith, Hutchinson and Costin all replaced, Hayley Marjoram, Tilly Betts and Holly Davies coming on. Wroxham with a double change Rudd and Bradford coming off the full backs replaced by Lauren Kett and Keela Olive. Wroxham winning a free-kick wide left Connell on the ball flighted into the near post claimed well by Rudkin with Waters lurking.

  Fakenham deflated continue to battle despite being on the back foot Wroxham with renewed energy pouring forwards Russell into the box sees her she blocked the ball ricocheting to Bullard wide right of goal inside the box scoops it across to Waters closing in on the near post she shot held well by Rudkin back on her line as she gets down to take it into her body.

Fakenham’s Chloe Gravett

  Gravett on the move with the ball releases Sophie Lubbock on half way, running for goal has alot of ground to cover and three Wroxham defenders converge to crowd the striker off the ball. 

  GOAL! Kett winning the ball at the back with a good ball forwards for Waters pulling away to the right her low drive in across the face of goal not held by Rudkin comes back off the post Connell on the follow up closing in back heeling the ball home from close range to net her hat-trick. 8-0.

Holly Connell nets a hat-trick for Wroxham

  Despite the goals racking up Riches is doing all she can to limit the damage at the back for Fakenham winning a number of vital balls is on hand once again to deny Waters inside the six yard box to concede the corner kick. The inswinging delivery plucked down well by Rudkin. Rudkin coming out to take the ball as she sees Waters turn on the left towards her box.

  GOAL! Waters quicker to release her shot moments later as she gets hold of the ball on the left to send her strike past the advancing keeper heading in at the near post, denied by Betts as the substitute blocks the ball on the line can’t do much about the follow up as the deflected ball comes straight to Bullard to curl the ball inside the left post 9-0.

  Bullard coming off then for Wroxham replaced by Ellie Overton. Wroxham leading by 9 goals know how it feels to be on the other end of that score line. On top this afternoon dominating the game a strong performance and look hungry for more goals as they come on at will. Gravett a willing runner for Fakenham looking to make something happen traveling with the ball going all the way into the box from the left cutting inside is clipped, but stays on her feet before the ball is blocked and cleared.

Ellie Overton with Sophie Lubbock

  Overton with a cross on the right from  deep position long into the box cut out by Riches falls back into midfield a shot struck from distance held by Rudkin. Wroxham winning a corner out on the right the ball fired in long across the six yard coming to Russell beyond the far post can’t angle her header back on target, taking a nick off a Fakenham body a 2nd corner awarded on the left. Again long to the far post Olive looking to get it down under control inside the six yard box is crowded off the ball before she can get a shot away.

Wroxham defender, Lauren Kett (photo credit Daniel Kett)

  Gravett coming off for Fakenham, with Costin back on. Waters pulling away to the right leaning back as she strikes the ball sending her effort over the crossbar. Olive with the pass on for Waters, Riches in to tackle the ball out for a corner on the right.

 GOAL! Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham with a well struck shot. The ball played into the box is knocked down falling straight to Densley top of the area, behind it all the way the goal opens up before her as she puts her laces through the ball to send it into the corner of the net 10-0.

Lara Densley bringing up double figures for Wroxham

 Wroxham with a double switch bringing Bullard and Rudd back on for Waters and Robson. Riches blocking the ball at the back as Wroxham send players on. 

  GOAL! One way traffic late in the game Wroxham able to come on at will Fakenham battling in defence. Bullard with the ball on the right wide twisting off her marker to steal in behind to whip a cross into the six yard box, Olive running in at the near post meeting in sweetly on the volley to turn the ball into the back of the net 11-0.

Keela Olive with the volley to make it 11

  Nearly 12 as O’Neill’s strike from distance cones crashing down off the cross bar into the six yard box before being scrambled clear. Rudkin getting down to save on her goal line as Wroxham fire an angled strike in from the left the deflected ball coming to Rudd right of goal smashes her shot back in wide across the goal. 

  Marjoram with a neat bit of defending inside the box to deny Bullard a shot as she attacks from the right cleared for a corner. Spurrell breaking with the ball on the right in the final seconds can’t pick Sophie Lubbock out with the final pass as the final whistle blows.

Full time Wroxham Women 11-0 Fakenham Town Ladies

  Wroxham dominating the game from start to finish booking their place in the last 4 of the Norfolk Women’s County Cup where they will be joined by Norwich City Women, Mulbarton Belles Ladies and Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers FC Women with be an interesting draw all of these sides have beaten the other on their day in the competition. Wroxham making the perfect start with a goal inside the opening minute adding a 2nd after 15 never let Fakenham settle pressing the ball high the midfield linking up well with the attackers to press the advantage leading 5-0 at the break any response Fakenham could muster 2nd half was quickly extinguished both Waters and Connell going on to score hat-tricks. Raining goals Fakenham were out played a dispiriting result but fought till the end. One result doesn’t defy a season and although it’ll hurt they can be proud of the progress they’ve made as a squad so far.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this Sunday’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Not an easy call today by any means several contenders for Wroxham. For Fakenham the stand out player was their captain Jemma Riches without her interceptions and tackles there would have been further goals fought till the end. For Wroxham it was a clinical display that will do no end to boost confidence. Was a strong performance from the midfield trio, Jennifer Codman, Zara O’Neill and Becky Russell winning the ball getting forwards and setting up attacks. Lauren Bullard with a strong game out on the right. Comes down to the hat-trick scorers, Hannah Waters with her experience getting into some great positions and taking her goals well, ultimately Holly Connell’s pace is what caused Fakenham the most issues with her up front Wroxham had a ready outlet for the counter and linked up will with the midfield showing great composure for her goals.

  Never the easiest of report to write when one side has racked up a high score against another but that is football, you never know what’s going to happen. Great to be back at the FDC. My thanks to both clubs for their help with the team details and to Daniel Kett for the additional photo’s used in today’s report. 

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Enfield Town Ladies

Sunday 23rd October

Women’s FA Cup

Back to the Women’s FA Cup this Sunday with a massive 88 ties scheduled across the country in 3rd Round Qualifying with the FAWNL Division One clubs entering the competition all vying for a place in the 1st Round Proper with the increased prize fund seeing the winning sides also recieving £4,000.

Today’s action comes from Trafford Park, my 2nd trip to Wroxham this weekend with Wroxham Women taking no Enfield Town Ladies.

Wroxham currently 5th in the ERWFL Premier Division, amongst the chasing pack looking to put pressure on leaders Luton Town Ladies. A mixed bag of results in the league having won 3 an lost 3, similar form for several clubs in what is shaping up to be another competitive season. Joe Simpson previously head coach at King’s Lynn in charge of Wroxham Women now has brought in several new recruits from his former club and ex-Norwich city youth players to build up the squad further adding Ellie Overton another from Norwich along with midfielder Jennifer Codman and vastly experienced a prolific striker, Hannah Waters who were part of the Wymondham Town Ladies side (now sadly withdrawn) that won the league and cup double (treble if you count the county cup) in the ERWFL last season.

Hannah Waters hitting the ground running at her new club joining Holly Connell as top goal scorer netting 5 goals. 3 of those goals coming in the last round of the Women’s FA Cup were Wroxham secured a 4-1 win away to Essex side Lawford Ladies. Captain Jess Horn who herself has 4 for the season the other goal scorer. Two more ex-Wymondham players joining up with Wroxham with defender Lauren Kett and attacker Hayley Kindred coming in to strengthen the squad further.

Enfield Town Ladies were for a long time an established side in the 4th tier of the women’s football pyramid. Coming to an end last season as they were relegated from FAWNL South East Division One in a season where 4 sides would ultimately go down. Unfortunate not to hold onto their status drop back down into regional football in the London and South East Premier Division, where they face a challenge to bounce back at the first attempt. A strong player pathway within the club with girls sides from U10 up with 3 women’s sides.

Dean Perrett who saw Harlow Town Ladies promoted from the ERWFL to the FAWNL the season before last coming in as first team manager for the new season as the club looks to try and bounce back at the 1st attempt. Never an easy task with just one side promoted from the 12 strong London and South East Regional Premier Division. Like the ERWFL is a competitive league with several strong sides. Enfield’s start to the season similar to Wroxham’s with 3 wins and 3 losses so far from 6 played. Karesha Iton leading goal scorer so far with 6 goals with Katie O’Leary on 5. A home win awarded to Enfield in the previous round over Edgwere & Kingsbury.

Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, has been lovely weather in October so far, today the exception with heavy rain forecast sweeping up from the south west. Enfield travelling up to Norfolk with rain accompanying them the whole way and with games getting called off elsewhere wondered if it would be a wasted journey. However the rain was light in Wroxham leading up to kick off the pitch with a bit slope unlikely to be affected. The rain starting to fall heavier with both teams out warming up retreated to the bar for a cup of tea. A wide grass pitch the clubhouse one side a small terraced stand behind one goal and a larger seated stand over on the far side this is where I headed for the game as a pose to my usual spot in anticipation of getting soaked. Indeed the heavens were to open up moments before the match was due to kick off the teams walking out to a deluge. 

Wroxham Women

Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Breanna Rudd, Lucy Bradford, Jess Horn (C), Lauren Kett, Zara O’Neill, Jennifer Codman, Becky Russell, Keela Olive, Lauren Bullard & Hannah Waters. Subs – Holly Walker, Holly Connell, Lucy Eagle, Lara Dengley, Summer Copland, Tiffany Forshaw & Hayley Kindred.

Enfield Town Ladies

 Enfield Town Ladies starting XI – Grace Taylor, Sheryce Slater, Danielle Smith, Beth Powell (C), Brionne Fowle Etta Sam, Olivia Syson, Etta Sam, Amy Nash, Leah Littlechild, Katie O’Leary & Karesha Iton. Subs – Maisie Wyer, Rebecca Evans & Lauren Cann.

A heavy downpour to start the game

Another advantage of taking advantage of the stand is the press box, has a table to set my notepad on which seeing as I’d managed to forget my usual notepad had to resort to my larger A4 fixtures & results pad. But at least I had an alternative. Lauren Kett in the starting line up today for Wroxham along with fellow ex-Wymondham teammates Jennifer Codman and Hannah Waters with Hayley Kindred on the bench. It’s Wroxham to get the tie underway kicking off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Enfield lined up opposite in an all sky blue kit. Played back into midfield Enfield quick to move in close the ball down, Becky Russell getting it out long into the left channel for Hannah Waters to go after, full back Sheryce Slater getting across her to see the ball back to goalkeeper Grace Taylor who promptly launches the back over the stand and out of the ground.

Enfield’s Sheryce Slater with Wroxham’s Keela Olive

Enfield rushing in to press the ball in the early exchanges is all a bit fragmented the ball regularly out of play for a throw in. Etta Sam taking on possession 30 yards out running for the Wroxham area right of the D closed down looking for Katie O’Leary ahead of her as she is blocked off, wants a foul but instead Wroxham have a free-kick with O’Leary straying offside. Olivia Syson bringing the ball on for Enfield centrally looks to thread it through into the box for Karesha Iton pulling in behind from the left, Megan Lightfoot in the Wroxham goal rushing forwards able to claim it first. 

   Wroxham bring the ball on through the middle with pace Russell travelling the pass forwards helped on to Keela Olive 20 yards out left of D, goes to shoot her low effort running wide of the left post. Taylor sold a little short on the back pass inside her area has Waters racing in to try and charge her down as she goes to put her foot through the ball, deflects off the Wroxham attacker behind for a goalkick. Zara O’Neill with the ball in midfield for Wroxham comes on right side support from Lauren Bullard and Lucy Bradford out wide the cross flashed in to the top of the area cut out by Enfield’s Brionne Fowle play brought back though with a Wroxham foul spotted in the build up.

Enfield’s Brionne Fowle

 A slick playing surface now with the heavy rain falling O’Neill on for Russell through the middle for Wroxham clipped forwards to Waters pulling left, lays it back up the line for Breanna Rudd, her crossfield pass intercepted by Syson played into Nash who picks out Sam as the visitors storm forwards, Sam on the right putting it into the area for Iton wide of goal, Kett comes sliding in with a committed challenge to win the ball. Iton looking to get across the Wroxham back line force an opening looking to get into the area take a shot attacking right her cross cut out cleared Wroxham look to get on the counter the ball on the left Waters the target, Sam tracking back getting hold of the ball and winning the foul as her shirt is pulled trying to bring the ball forwards.

Wroxham defender, Lauren Kett

  Wroxham winning a corner on the right, played in near post Kett the target in low gets it back to the corner taker, flashed back in towards goal on the angle Taylor at full stretch diving forwards to push the ball out of her box, Wroxham sending a shot back in the ball blocked. Russell coming forwards for Wroxham with Waters pulling wide left recieving the ball plays it back inside for Russell to shoot 20 yards out her strike blocked then, Syson comes sliding in win the ball deny her a 2nd opportunity. 

Wroxham’s Becky Russell with Enfield’s Leah Littlechild

   Iton needing the trainer on, a pause in play allowed back on as a drop ball resumes play, Enfield getting forwards on the left Leah Littlechild with Nash on through the middle with Iton ahead of them the cross fired into the area intercepted by Wroxham captain Jess Horn. The wet grass is great for sliding tackles and both sides have players that are enjoying them. Enfield though win a free-kick out wide on the left. A good delivery played into the box, Fowle getting her head on it, can’t direct her header on target wide for a goal kick. 

   Enfield putting pressure on the Wroxham defence getting players up and around the 18 yard box, a pass through into Iton’s feet inside the area, turns to shoot, Kett throwing herself across her to charge down the ball, frantically Wroxham look to get the loose ball away right of the D Enfield play it back into the area, blocked once again before a shot is put in on goal low from 20 yards, Lightfoot right behind it to gather safely. 

Kett putting in some bold but will timed sliding challenges for Wroxham, denying Sam as the Enfield midfielder looks to jink her way into the area. 20 minutes on the clock Enfield gathering momentum getting players forwards well intercepting a good share of passes as Wroxham look to get the ball into midfield. Nash bursting into the left channel slowed down by Bradford, the ball running loose to the by-line Nash racing onto it to fire a cross into the six yard box cleared by Horn. The ball cleared long to the right Waters going after it feeding the pass inside for Olive to strike wide from 20 yards.

Enfield’s Amy Nash

  GOAL! Enfield coming on with the ball Nash moving forwards left channel has Iton ahead of her rolls the ball forwards, Iton getting hold of it to shoot from the angle sending a chipped shot from 25 yards over the keeper into the back corner of the net 0-1.

Karesha Iton with the strike to fire Enfield into the lead

  The visitors on the front foot taking the game to Wroxham, Iton on the right off a throw in turning inside driving a cross/shot into the centre of the six yard box the defence blocking in front of the keeper, O’Leary first to the loose ball looking to force her way into the box her run blocked off. Penned back Wroxham look to clear the ball long for Waters, Bullard up with her through the middle Waters infield ball looking for her 20 yards out is just behind Bullard allowing Enfield captain Beth Powell the opportunity to clear. 

Wroxham striker, Hannah Waters

 Rudd into space on the left for Wroxham plays the infield pass into Codman 30 yards out, lining up a shot Fowle reacts well to rush in to put the block in. Wroxham encouraged come forwards apply a bit of pressure of their own out on the right the cross inside to Olive 20 yards out her low strike in gathered by Taylor. The ball moved quickly upfield into Iton out on the right turns inside shaping to curl a shot in towards goal her effort block the Enfield bench going up to appeal they think with a hand but nothing doing.

Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

   Wroxham give the ball away carelessly in midfield, Sam latching onto it breaking forwards looking to capitalise, her shirt pulled gets the free-kick in a dangerous position 25 yards out. O’Leary over it. Goes for goal getting the ball up and over the wall dropping Lightfoot back on her line palming the ball down to save and smothering it at her near post before Iton can pounce on the follow up. The rain having slowed to a drizzle stopping completely.

  Wroxham getting up on the right Bullard to the by-line cutting the ball back to the top of the area for Olive to hit right of the D, Taylor throwing herself cross to make the save the ball away for a corner on the right. Once again Kett the target before the near post in low looking to turn and put it across goal to be attacked Slater gets her head on the cross the turn it behind for a 2nd corner. In near side again Enfield are awarded to free-kick this time around. 

Wroxham’s Keela Olive

  Enfield are the livelier side winning the ball more often than not in midfield and looking to get forwards Sam and O’Leary looking to combine on the right, Rudd sliding in on O’Leary to put the ball out for a throw. Horn clearing the ball for a corner inside her box to the left as Nash looks to play O’Leary in. The corner dealt with Wroxham look to counter get players forwards rapidly Olive up to Waters who tracks from the left into the box looking looking to lay it off for Bullard moving across her, Powell in to defend on Bullard then Fowle sliding deny Waters from shooting the ball deflected back to the keeper to clear. 

In stark contrast to the heavy rain at the start of the game the 1st half draws to a close with the pitch bathed in bright sunlight. Kett with another strong challenge to deny Iton up the other end. Sam comes on with Nash right channel plays it inside looking for Iton making a run inside the box, intercepted by Kett. Enfield finishing the half strong Syson with the ball in the middle out wide to Iton hugging the right wing her cross fired into the area cut out by Horn, Enfield quick to regain possession back with Syson into O’Leary out to Iton wide right her cross put in claimed into her mid-riff by Lightfoot. Looks to get the throw out quickly get Wroxham on the move.

Enfield’s Etta Sam

  The ball is lost a misplaced pass on the left seeing Iton steal in behind the defence to charge into the area, Kett the last defender getting a cross to try and put in a last gasp block Iton evades her challenge to move on towards goal, Lightfoot closing her down staying big making the blocking save as Iton pulls the trigger.

Wroxham goalkeeper, Megan Lightfoot

 A frustrating half for Wroxham passes not finding their mark Enfield winning a good portion of interceptions in the middle turning play around quickly meaning the ball not up with the hosts attackers as much as they would like. Enfield have a player down late in the first half Fowle looks to have picked up an injury and can’t continue on in her place Maisie Wyer. 

 

 Wroxham come left late in the half Olive on for Waters looks to set up he return pass, Syson though coming back to defend for Enfield. Russell moving to the right for Wroxham getting on with the ball before delivering a cross into the area cleared by Powell.   

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Enfield Town Ladies

  The 1st half ending in bright sunshine it’s Enfield who head into the changing rooms the happiest leading the game by a single goal at the break. Not much between the side at the start Enfield looking the stronger as the half wore on getting players up the pitch and winning the ball back high up to turn play around. Creating a number of chances some heroic blocks and challenges denying them a further goal. A well struck shot from Karesha Iton 20 minutes in the difference. Wroxham struggling to get the ball up to their attackers at times have had a few opportunities and with just a single goal in it far from out of the tie.

  Appear to be no changes 2nd half. The FA Women’s Cup only allowing 3 substitutes in regular play. The sun disappearing as clouds roll back in for the 2nd half dry nonetheless the teams out before the officials keen to get going again. Enfield with the kick off 2nd half the ball into midfield played out to the left for Littlechild, Horn stepping in to head the ball away for Wroxham. The hosts looking to put some pressure on at the start of the 2nd half Bullard bringing the ball on looking to put Waters through on halfway with the Enfield defence pushed up get their line right to catch Waters offside.

   Enfield get on the counter attack the ball clipped out to Sam on the right wide her cross lifted into the box, intercepted by Codman tracking back from midfield the ball crashed behind for a corner kick. The delivery put into O’Leary just inside the box central, puts her foot through the ball looking for the opposite side runs wide of the post.

 Horn plays the ball long to Bullard on the right looks to play a give and go with Russell in the middle, Smith getting across to Bullard to cut out the return ball. The ball coming inside to Olive off the resulting throw left of the D her strike riding Taylor well positioned behind it all the way. Slater coming on with the ball well from the back for Enfield sends it on into the eft channel for O’Leary running in behind between full back ad centre back that side turns inside into the box top corner looks to shoot her curling ball presented straight to the keeper.

Wroxham’s Jennifer Codman

  Enfield making a good start to the 2nd half, Littlechild coming forwards well on the left into space to receive the ball with O’Leary, Syson and Iton all providing good support. Olive booked for a foul wide on the right for Enfield. Is the play to head clear as the ball is lifted in near post area. Wyer regaining possession the pass out to Littlechild on the left her shot wide of the near post for a goal kick. 

Wroxham captain Jess Horn

   Sam wide on the right for Enfield crossing into the box Horn with great defensive work to take the ball off the head of Littlechild attacking the near post. The hosts making a change on the hour with Codman the player coming off on comes Lara Dengley. Horn at the back for Wroxham up to Bullard goes wide with her pass to Bradford up on the right wing, puts it into the box for Dengley closing in on the by-line right of goal her cross played in claimed by Taylor. 

  O’Leary giving away a free-kick out wide on the right. Wroxham bringing players up Russell over it is a teasing ball lifted into the area put across the penalty spot Kett running clear of her marker across it getting a touch deflecting the ball goalwards a good chance by frustratingly straight at the keeper. Taylor safely claiming it.

Lauren Kett with a chance to equalise for Wroxham

  Close to scoring at one end Wroxham are in danger of conceding up the other as Taylor puts her foot through the ball sending it long up field bouncing through the middle, Horn under pressure from Iton trying to shield the ball for her advancing keeper to come claim, defender and goalkeeper coming together as the ball pops loose to the right, Iton can’t reach it as Kett comes hurtling back to smash the ball away for a corner kick. Horn needing a spot of treatment looks uncomfortable as play resumes. Enfield with bodies in the box for the corner from the right goes long half cleared by Bradford at the far post O’Leary steals in on the ball top of the area tries to lay it into the feet of Syson right of goal she stabs a shot in low hasn’t the power to trouble Lightfoot. 

 GOAL! Enfield double their lead midway through the 2nd half Slater playing the ball long from the back into Littlechild attacking on the left gets forwards playing a squared ball into the box for O’Leary who lifts a cross into the six yard box for Iton who swivels superbly off her marker to bury her shot into the top corner of the net 0-2. 

Karesha Iton doubles Enfield’s lead

  A further blow for Wroxham after conceding a 2nd goal as they lose their captain to injury Horn having picked up a knock coming off along with Olive as they make a double change bringing on Holly Connell and Hayley Kindred. Littlechild latching onto a poor ball put back into the box for O’Leary. Dengley getting ack at her to defend for Wroxham. 

  Russell looking to carry the ball forwards for Wroxham attacking left rides a strong challenge the advantage played as Bullard takes it on inside the box looks to put it back to Russell inside the D cut out, Dengley onto the loose ball 20 yards out her shot low not troubling Taylor who has been solid all game. The visitors making a change as the game moves into the final 15 minutes Sam coming off for Lauren Cann. 

  Taylor with the save of the match albeit off her own miscue as the Enfield goalkeeper presents the ball straight to Waters off a back pass from Slater. Waters shifting across the D wrapping her foot around the ball hit with venom rising, Taylor back peddling throwing herself out to her left to save pushing the ball out to the right corner of the area put back across the area for O’Neill to lift a shot up towards goal. Taylor taking the catch high above her head. 

Enfield goalkeeper, Grace Taylor

  Littlechild winning a corner for Enfield on the left played in near post O’Leary with the header on, Cann unable to get a touch far post. Littlechild full of energy late in the game has Syson up with her on the left rolls the ball on, Connell tracking back with Syson getting a foot in to prod the ball behind for a corner. Taken short before being played in across the six yard box, O’Leary attempting the header far post wide. Enfield with a strong 2nd half performance coming on well Syson sending a shot over from 20 yards out. 

Karesha Iton with Wroxham’s Zara O’Neill

  Powell sliding in to take the ball away from Waters as she breaks into the box from the right, Waters accidentally standing on the defenders leg as she makes the challenge leaving Powell in some discomfort but okay to continue. Wroxham haven’t given up keep looking to get players on with the clock ticking down looking for a goal Connell right off a crossfield pas from O’Neill getting the the by-line before crossing. As has been the case so often can only pick out Taylor in the Enfield goal. 

  Iton doing most of her attacking through the middle 2nd half picking up the ball and driving at the Wroxham defence jinking left then right before unleashing a shot 25 yards out. Lightfoot right behind the ball to make the save. O’Leary recieving the ball top of the area left side from a diagonal pass looking to find the top corner with her strike lets out a cry of frustration instead as she only picks out the keeper. The game moving into stoppage time Enfield with their 3rd change Nash coming off for Rebecca Evans. The visitors hit Wroxham on the break Littlechild bursting down the left flashing a cross into the six yard box Syson there central up trying to meet the header can’t quite get there.

 GOAL! A 3rd goal coming in stoppage time the icing on the cake for Enfield as Evans wins the ball back in midfield plays it on for Syson right channel 25 yards out shifts the ball onto her left foot and strikes her shot in over the keeper at the near post 0-3.

Enfield’s Olivia Syson

  Enfield finishing the game strongly getting players on Cann with the ball moving inside from the right to line up a shot driven in low Lightfoot down to stop it the ball squirming out of her grasp dribbles slowly wide of her near post for a corner kick. A shot from the set-piece resulting in a goal kick. 

Full time Wroxham Women 0-3 Enfield Town Ladies

  Enfield win the game 3-0 to advance to the first round proper of the Women’s FA Cup. A strong 2nd half performance to build on the narrow lead they had secured at half-time. That goal coming from Karesha Iton, she went on to score a superb 2nd midway through the 2nd half, moment after Wroxham had had their best chance of the game to level the scores. Wroxham frustrated were never out of the tie the 3rd goal coming late in stoppage time had opportunities to score just couldn’t take one Grace Taylor proving a strong final hurdle to clear for Enfield. 

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Left the game thinking I knew who I’d pick but like to go through the notes just to confirm. Several performances to mention first though. For Wroxham, Lauren Kett had a brilliant debut with some excellent last ditch and well time tackles plus carrying a threat when coming forwards. Likewise Jess Horn make some vital challenges and interceptions. Becky Russell looking to get the game going for the hosts with some strong runs from midfield. A solid team performance from Enfield working hard to win the ball take the game to their opponents. Olivia Syson strong in the middle getting forwards with the ball feeding it into the attacking players scoring an excellent goal. The two from Karesha Iton weren’t bad either. Strong on the ball moving about the back line to get into good positions. Leah Littlechild with a strong game on the left particularly 2nd half getting forwards. The award though goes to Enfield’s goalkeeper, Grace Taylor. Was a colossus throughout the game frustrating Wroxham all game with some excellent positioning and quality saves to ensure a clean sheet.

  An enjoyable cup tie despite the weather, but then that only added to the drama. A bigger notepad means I write more and I write enough notes as it is so mustn’t leave it at home again. Good to see Enfield again interested in seeing how they ae getting on now they’ve drifted away from the leagues covered by Women’s Football East hope to see them back soon and am keen to see how they do this season. My thanks to both sides for their help and hospitality today. Looking forward to the draw for the 1st Round Proper.

by Darren Gilham

Match Report – Wroxham Women v Needham Market Women

Sunday 28th August

ERWFL Premier Division

 A short trip to Trafford Park this Sunday to watch my first game of the season from the ERWFL Premier Division. Wroxham Women who made a winning start to their season last Sunday hosting newly promoted Needham Market Women.

 The ERWFL Premier Division once again looking strong with a number of sides having the title in their sights, with Harlow Town Ladies and Stevenage FC Women looking to bounce back to the FAWNL straight away after suffering relegation last season. The 5th tier of the women’s football pyramid with plenty of talented players as the game continues to grow. Often competitve and exciting to watch.

 Wroxham Women now a well established part of the Wroxham footballing family with ambitions to attain promotion to the FAWNL. A frustrating season to say the least during last years campaign. Getting off to a blistering start winning their opening 5 games, then the wheels came off and a difficult run of 4 straight losses followed before a draw and a lengthy period through the end of November into the New Year without a game. 2023 bringing the return to form the squad knew they were capable of winning 7 of their last 8 games aswell as reaching the final of the League Cup. Eventually finishing 4th a case of what might have been for the lull cost them. Manager Rebecca Burton standing down at the end of the season.

 Wroxham bringing in Joe Simpson as their new manager. At the club previously as coach the former King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager bringing Burton back as his assistant with another for King’s Lynn Town Ladies manager, Shelley Stewart part of the coaching team. Charlotte Rose in as strength and conditioning coach with goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook taking on a player/coach role. Several changes within the player squad too with players moving on or retiring, most notably striker, Grace Birchall a talisman for the club up front scoring 66 goals in 42 appearances. Simpson bringing in a number of news faces to the squad. Reuniting with a trio of former King’s Lynn players, Tiffany Forshaw bringing a wealth of experience to the club can operate anywhere through the spine of the team. Mary-Ann Hoy returning to Wroxham from King’s Lynn too along with midfield talent Zara O’Neill. 

  Saw Lucy Eagle first in action for Leiston St Margarets Ladies and has starred in attack for a number of county league sides since most recently Bungay Town Ladies, making to jump up to the fifth tier this campaign looking to test herself. Paige Shorten is another player with huge experience back playing after coaching with Ipswich Town Women. Plus a quartet of young players from Norwich City’s Player Pathway, Lucy Bradford, Lara Densley, Keela Olive and Breana Rudd.

Needham Market Women achieving promotion to the ERWFL Premier Division for the 1st time. In a very short space of time the club has become one of the leading lights for women’s football in Suffolk looking to emulate the counties leading side Ipswich Town Women in it’s growth and success. Joining the ERWFL in the 2018/19 season no doubt the Covid pandemic has stalled the clubs progress. A full season played a last in 2021/22, Needham Market were dominant from start to finish clinching the Division One North title gaining promotion along side fellow Suffolk rivals AFC Sudbury Women won won Division One South. The step up to the 5th tier of the women’s pyramid where standards go up a notch and a good test for an ambitious club looking to push itself. Scored plenty of goals last season, with Lina Nagib top scorer netting 26 goals, with Molly Hall, Lois Balfour and Ellie Rossiter scoring 21, 17 and 16 respectfully.

  An academy and 2nd team backing up the first team, manager Warren Lewis-Claxton has added a number of experienced former Ipswich players to the ranks such as goalkeeper, Danielle Clarke, Ellie Rossiter, Nicole Pannifer, Molly Hall and Paige Wakefield in recent seasons, has added a further two defenders this season in Lindsey Cooper and Eva Hubbard aswell as a number of promising young players such as Poppy Nunn and goalkeeper, Emily Cockrill. also joining aling with Charlotte McGrath who was most recently at Abingdon. Started life in the ERWFL Premier Division with a trip to Haringey Borough the hosts coming away with a 4-3 win.

  Trafford Park the venue for today’s match, a large grass pitch offering plenty of width, not the most even of playing surfaces with a distinct slope nevertheless in great condition. Viewing all round. A covered stand on one side of the pitch. The bar and clubhouse serving hot food and drinks on the other. Great weather for the match bright with a little cloud cover and a slight breeze.

Wroxham Women

 Wroxham Women starting XI – Megan Lightfoot, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd, Tigi Robson, Jess Horn (C), Zara O’Neill, Becky Russell, Holly Connell, Keela Olive, Lucy Eagle & Tiffany Forshaw. Subs – Cyan Fullbrook, Lara Densley, Summer Copland & Ellie Overton & Megan Rose.

Needham Market Women

 Needham Market Women starting XI – Emily Cockrill, Niamh Thomas, Eva Hubbard, Ele Catchpole, Lindsey Cooper, Abbie Fisher, Leilah Hanson, Mia Etheridge, Ellie Rossiter, Jo Brawn & Lois Balfour (C). Subs – Charlotte McGrath, Poppy Nunn, Lina Nagib & Paige Wakefield.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 Two goalkeepers making their debuts today with Megan Lightfoot in goal for Wroxham. Danielle Clarke picking up an injury for Needham Market away to Haringey Borough last Sunday a blow, in comes Emily Cockrill recently joined from Kesgrave Kestrals. Lindsey Cooper making her competitive debut too for the visitors. Six more from Wroxham’s starting line-up making thier home debuts, Tiffany Forshaw, Lucy Eagle, Keela Olive, Lucy Bradford, Breanna Rudd and Zara O’Neill. It’s Wroxham to get the game under way kicking off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical stripped shirts with blue shorts and socks with Needham Market lined up opposite in their away colours, yellow shirts and socks with black shorts. Wroxham look to send the ball on out to the left, Needham Market full back, Niamh Thomas can let the ball run on into the area for Cockrill to get an early feel of the ball.

A frantic start the ball hit back and forth between midfield and defensive Needham Market pushing  up, Wroxham manage to lift a pass over the top into the right channel for Eagle to run onto 25 yards out looks to take on the early strike, isn’t quite set stretching a little too much as she connects with the ball dragging it inside wide across the area. Leilah Hanson sending the ball on through the middle for Needham Market into the feet of captain and attacker Lois Balfour, she turns well on the ball spinning the pass out to Jo Brawn wide left, looking to take the ball on Wroxham full back Lucy Braford gets across to make the challenge the ball out for a throw in.

Wroxham’s Lucy Bradford

  A wide pitch play getting drawn to one side of the pitch space to exploit if the pass can be seen. Hubbard well aware of that as she bombs on down the left taking the ball on reaching the penalty area squares an inviting ball inside, dealt with by Wroxham captain, Jess Horn her clearance latched on in midfield a strike from distance fizzed back in, blocked. Wroxham break on their left the ball fed up the line rapidly, on for Forshaw bursting into the box, takes on the shot striking a low ball in on the angle, Cockrill closing the gap making a good blocking save. 

Needham Market’s Niamh Thomas

Needham Market attack left Hubbard racing up the line feeding the ball on for Balfour peeling into the channel, Horn getting across to put in the tackle before she can turn into the box. Forshaw looking to play off the last defender break in behind for Wroxham as the midfield work the ball into her, through to attack the box, her attack halted by the offside flag, a close call. Cockrill comes a long way out of her area to deal with the danger as Forshaw gives chase to a ball lifted into the right channel. Cockrill putting the ball into Hubbard the defender put under pressure by Forshaw who wins Wroxham a throw high up the pitch. 

Needham Market’s, Eva Hubbard

 Both sides looking to get the ball out from the back with pace into midfield, Needham Market have it on the left played into Hanson the Fisher as they go crossfield to Rossiter bursting forwards wide out on the wing her cross fired into the area collected by Lightfoot at her near post. An intriguing contest shaping up with 15 minutes gone. O’Neill getting hold of the ball in the middle for Wroxham plays it to Rudd on the left plays the ball on for Forshaw in attack, can’t reach it but is willing to pressure the defence looking to force an error, the result a goal kick this time. The hosts getting numbers forwards well pushing Needham Market’s defence back the release for the visitors Hubbard on the left as she looks to run into space. 

Ellie Rossiter with Wroxham’s Breanna Rudd

 Hubbard turning inside with the ball plays a great diagonal ball forwards, a vital interception from Horn, or Brawn is in clear to attack the goal. Hanson in the middle sends the pass out to Thomas right getting the return pass as she moves forwards her cross into the box on the angle claimed well by Lightfoot. Hubbard continuing to cause problems on the left with the ball for Needham Market sends it on for Brawn ahead of her moving inside to take on the return pass driving for the box, Horn lunging in to make the tackle to dispossess her.

Wroxham captain, Jess Horn

  Keela Olive getting forwards with the ball for Wroxham right side on for Eagle her early diagonal ball into the area finding Forshaw out beyond the far post, controlling the ball sees Russell coming on lays the ball back into her path the midfielders cross/shot charged down by Cooper in the Needham Market defence. Wroxham retain possession on the left getting bodies forwards well the ball lofted back into the area Holly Connell beating her marker getting the ball down turning towards goal shooting low, Cockrill with a superb save getting down smartly blocking with her thigh. 

Keela Olive looking to get hold of the ball for Wroxham

 Pressure mounting from Wroxham keeping the ball in the final 3rd played out right a player brought down right on the edge of the box a free kick on the line level with the six yard line, Russell to play it into the area, Mia Etheridge up to make the defensive header clearing for Needham Market the ball falling to Wroxham’s Olive 25 yards out her 1st time shot blocked. A corner won on the right for Wroxham short between Connell and Russell the cross put into the area cleared. Another close call with the flag to deny Forshaw anyone chance on goal as she is almost put in by Eagle’s fine diagonal ball as she and Russell exchange passes on the right. 

Wroxham midfielder, Becky Russell

  Forshaw looking the goal threat for Wroxham, Russell looking to thread a pass through for her to attack, Cockrill with a good starting position quickly out to the top of her area to lay claim to the ball. Brawn comes left with the ball, Bradford back on her to slow her down holds it up well as Hubbard racing forwards in support takes the ball on in behind to the by-line winning her side a corner kick. The delivery in to the near post doesn’t get past Horn, heading clear.

  Hubbard breaks clear on the left as Needham Market press the ball high, runs into the box, Connell getting back at her to challenge the ball turned off her for a corner kick. Payed in the outcome the same Horn winning the header at the near post. Into the final 15 minutes of the half few clear cut chances as of yet both sides putting alot in to press the ball. Brawn picking the ball up inside the Wroxham half looks to push on driving forwards almost reaching the area before getting outnumbers still managing to squeeze the ball back into the path of Fisher 30 yards out her wild strike landing wide of the mark. A pause in play with Russell down recieving treatment both sides going to the bench for instructions.

 GOAL! Play resumes Needham Market having possession out wide right, played inside to Brawn inside the area looks to attack, Lightfoot coming appears to hesitate, Brawn capitalising beating her to the ball stabbing it past her to open the scoring 0-1. 

Jo Brawn opens the scoring for Needham Market

  Needham Market looking sharper after the break in play getting the lead and going on the attack breaking from a goal-kick Brawn on the left with Hubbard taking the ball on in behind her, Horn needing to come round on the cover to clear the ball for a corner. Eagle taking a heavy knock as she runs into traffic in the middle. Needs a moment but is okay to continue. Etheridge getting on the ball through the middle for Needham Market puts the pass forwards for Balfour as she looks to move out into the channel, Horn getting in to tackle her. 

 Hubbard back to defend intercepting a diagonal pass from O’Neill as she looks to release Connell on the right. Catchpole winning the header top of her area as Wroxham get up on the left cross the ball in. The game moving into stoppage time Wroxham mounting a late attack the ball fed on for Forshaw left channel, Cockrill coming to close her down with her defence exposed, Forshaw cleverly taking the ball around the keeper as she slides in commit, left bearing down on goal shoots low, Catchpole sliding in making the last ditch defensive block the ball out to the far post Catchpole scrambling back to her feet to get to Forshaw before she gets a 2nd bite at goal lunging in to block again the ball rebounding out of the area falls to Olive 25 yards out puts her foot through the ball looking to smash it home, Cockrill recovering her position grateful to get her gloves up pluck the ball down to safety. One last corner for Wroxham to end the half put into the area successfully defending as the whistle blows.  

Needham Market defender Ele Catchpole with a crucial double block at te end of the 1st half

Half-time Wroxham Women 0-1 Needham Market Women

  Needham Market leading by a single goal at the break. A close contest an intriguing watch the sides evenly matched. The result could have easily been the reverse at half-time. Cockrill making 2 superb saves with Catchpole making a huge block on the stroke of half-time. Jo Brawn’s goal the difference is still very much game on going into the 2nd half. A change at half-time for Wroxham with cyan Fullbrook on in goal for Lightfoot. Needham Market getting the 2nd half underway unchanged.

 

  The ball played out to Wroxham’s left, Bradford winning it for the hosts. Wroxham looking to make a busy start take the game to Needham Market at the start of the 2nd half, Rudd left sending the ball crossfield into Olive, back to Russell, Etheridge out to block her pass collecting the ball in the face a painful knock, play stopped for treatment. O’Neill playing the ball left to Rudd, pressured into playing the ball back to her centre backs Horn an Robson likewise under pressure as Etheridge hustles getting hold of the ball to release Rossiter into a gap on the right her cross into the area caught cleanly by Fullbrook. 

Wroxham’s Zara O’Neill

 Catchpole with a firm defensive clearance that has Rossiter giving chase to the ball on the right, crosses as she reaches the by-line but Fullbrook points out the ball was already gone, the assistant agrees. A corner for Needham Market on the right as Rossiter gets forwards well. As in the first half the delivery only finding Horn defending the near post area. Needham Market gaining momentum more on the right than the left with Thomas getting on to support Rossiter. Another corner on the right fired in near post Horn turning it out of the area, Needham Market have players ready to close down outside the area a shot struck in through bodies looks like it might be creeping inside the post, Fullbrook scrambling to get back to it scooping a glove under the ball enough to turn it wide for a corner on the left.

 Another pause in play with Etheridge down off the ball needing treatment, needs to come off this time with Needham Market bringing on Charlotte McGrath. 20 minutes played in the 2nd half remains a very tight and edgy affair. Needham Market taking the game to Wroxham keeping them busy inside their own half keeping Forshaw off the ball. Rossiter taking the ball on right side wrapping her foot around it to send the cross into the area, Horn heading clear for Wroxham. Another player down this time for Wroxham, Eagle a willing runner looking to drive on with the ball has been clattered a few time for her efforts. Wroxham making a double switch Eagle coming off, so too Rudd to be replaced by Lara Densley and Ellie Overton. Robson moving to the left of defence. 

 Overton’s first touch very close to being an own goal as Needham Market have a throw high on the right, Thomas putting it on for Hanson to head forwards for Rossiter on the wing her cross fired into the six yard box almost finding Balfour free at the near post, hitting Overton behind is narrowly wide for the corner. Needham Market with the momentum getting players forwards, Catchpole and Cooper looking solid in the centre of defence, Wroxham lacking numbers when they can break Connell right her cross claimed by Cockrill. Another double change for Wroxham with Megan Rose joining the back line on for Bradford. and Summer Copland on up top for Olive.

Needham Market captain, Lois Balfour

  Russell winning the ball back in the middle for Wroxham lays it forwards for Forshaw left of the  turns well in behind, Cooper quick to adjust getting back at her to deny the shot. Needham Market continue to exploit Rossiter on the right getting a throw high Rossiter’s cross in is uncharacteristically missed by Horn at the near post catching Brawn behind her off guard her touch off her hip turning the ball goalwards can’t react before Fullbrook snatches it up into her gloves. Needham Market bring Lina Nagib on with 10 minutes of regular time left.

Ellie Rossiter

  Rose winning it well at the back for Wroxham lifting the pass long for Connell 25 yards out an angled shot in rising Cockrill gloves it down to claim on the bounce. Rossiter and Robson enjoying a good battle now as Wroxham look to limit the balls coming into their box from the right. All good natured however Rossiter down with cramp, Robson helping her stretch. Catchpole winning the ball at the back well for Needham Market plays a good ball through for Balfour in attack, Rose getting on her shoulder to defend for Wroxham. Catchpole defending on Forshaw as O’Neill looks to find her with the pass up top. Forshaw coming off now with Eagle being sent back on to join the attack. A one two between Copland and Robson on the left as the defender gets forwards taking on the strike from distance drops wide. 

Wroxham’s Tigi Robson

 Wroxham looking to put some urgency into their play as they look to find a goal with the clock running down. Connell up with Eagle and Russell moving towards the Needham Market box, Fisher taking back to put the tackle in on Russell to regain possession. Rossiter coming off for Needham Market with Etheridge returning to the action, Hubbard quieter in the 2nd half making fewer forward runs nevertheless has plenty left in the tank as she cuts inside from the wing 25 yards out driving for the box Horn stepping out to block her run win back the ball. Nagib getting on the ball right for Needham Market driving up the line holding the ball up Thomas arriving to support her angled ball into the area dealt with by Rose. 

 

  Olive back on for Wroxham with the game heading for stoppage time, plenty of it to be played with the pauses for injuries. Olive taking the ball on from O’Neill in the middle forwards into Copland, Catchpole defending for Needham Market the ball running back to Olive to latch onto 25 yards out drags her volleyed effort wide. Robson off for Wroxham as they throw Forshaw back on. O’Neill with the diagonal ball out to Eagle on the right, brings it down well, striking the shot on the angle from distance frustrated as she only picks out the goalkeeper at the near post.

  Wroxham’s Olive steals onto the ball left side, her cross squared into the area but a heavy touch from Forshaw allows Cooper to clear out into the middle O’Neill getting hold of it 30 plus yards out her shot dipping lands on the roof of the net. A clash of heads between Densley and Thomas sees another break in play both physio’s racing on. No chances taken with Densley coming off for Wroxham. Poppy Nunn and Paige Wakefield also coming on for Needham Market Jo Brawn one of the players off.

Lina Nagib bringing the ball forwards for Needham Market

  GOAL! Deep into stoppage time Needham market regaining the ball on the right wing Wakefield taking it on cleverly winning a free-kick late in the game. Inside the Wroxham half taken quickly with Fisher running into a gap on the right side taking the ball to the top of the area before delivering a looping cross in towards the near post, put on a plate for Balfour drifting in unmarked to coolly nod down into the back of the net to seal the 3 points 0-2.

Lois Balfour centre making it 2-0 to Needham Market late in the game

  The 2nd goal scored in the 96th minute with another 4 minutes of stoppage time to play Needham Market with their tails up chasing the ball down looking to keep it inside Wroxham’s half . Nagib with Fisher looking to hold it up on the right winning a corner kick off Horn, the ball into the six yard box cleared as the final whistle blows, Needham Market celebrate their first ever win in the ERWFL Premier Division.

Full time Wroxham Women 0-2 Needham Market Women

 The late late goal from Lois Balfour sealing the win for Needham Market in what proved to be a tight and intriguing contest between the 2 sides. Giving little away the result could well have gone either way and neither would have complained with a draw. As it was Needham Market scored the all important goals and were strong in defence to limit Wroxham’s chances especially in the 2nd half. Even for large parts the game won on small margins the wins you have to work hard for are always the best. Needham Market took the game to Wroxham 2nd half and in doing so limited the impact their attackers had up the other end.

Women’s Football East – Player of the Match

  Onto this afternoon’s Women’s Football East – Player of the Match. Boy this is a tough one and it is difficult to name a clear winner. Strong performances form both sides, with both looking solid as a unit. Jess Horn won so much at the back for Wroxham whilst Tigi Robson beside her was strong. Tiffany Forshaw making some intelligent runs in behind getting into the box unlucky not to score 1st half. That largely down to Emily Cockrill in goal an impressive debut between the sticks for Needham Market with two fine saves. Ele Catchpole too in defence with some strong defensive wins. Eva Hubbard with her managing running down the flank. The award though goes to Ellie Rossiter took the game to Wroxham 2nd half with so powerful runs getting into some great positions and delivering some dangerous crosses.

 Another entertaining game for the ERWFL Premier Division, never disappoints and Needham Market are another strong addition to it’s ranks. Likewise Wroxham a new look side with a mixture of experience and youth, all the young players impressing will only get better as they play regularly at this level. As usual my thanks to both teams for their help with the team details today especially as I have been experiencing some technical difficulties. Much appreciated. Next up a derby double for the FAWNL a busy week ahead but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

by Darren Gilham