Cup Final Report - Colney Heath Ladies v Hutton Ladies

  Another busy Sunday on the Supporting Women's Football Blog heading to the County Ground, Letchworth for this season's ERWFL Final's day, 1st up an 11am kick-off for the Plate Final between Colney Heath Ladies and Hutton Ladies.

  The Plate competition for the sides from ERWFL Division One in it's various guises over the past few seasons that don't go beyond the quarter-finals of the league cup, Colney Heath Ladies have reached the last 3 finals in succession, runners up in the previous two will be looking to go one batter this time and win the final. Have grown as a side over those past 3 season's having had their best season to date clinching 2nd place in the Division One table.

  Will play Essex side Hutton Ladies this time around into their 1st ERWFL Plate Final have had an up and down season in the league flirting with the top 4 at one point fell away in the end to eventually finish 9th. Behind on their fixtures have had competitive football right up to this weekends final. Colney Heath have kept thing's ticking over with friendly matches over that same period.

Road to the Final

Beginning with the quarter-finals this seasons plate competition saw Colney Heath drawn at home to Little Thurrock Dynamos Ladies edged the score 3-2 to reach the semi-finals. Opponents Ipswich Wanderers Ladies couldn't field a team for the semi-final Colney Heath advancing without kicking a ball to the final itself.

  A Bye for Hutton Ladies in the quarter-finals were drawn at home to Stevenage Ladies Reserves in the semi-final always looked a close contest on paper and proved so on the day the scores level at 2-2 after 90 minutes the semi-final went into extra-time, Hutton Ladies finding the winning goal to make it into the Plate Final.

 The County Ground in Letchworth, Hertfordshire once again the venue for this season's ERWFL Finals. The large grass pitch has seen alot of cup final action recently but with the unusually dry weather in April has held up well looks in good shape a large pitch. The mainstand providing covered seating down one side behind the dugouts the bar situated at one end the Pukka Tukka trailer the other 1st stop upon arrival for a bacon bap. Rain to start the day however this was clearing and the sun warming things up a slight breeze chilly in the shade.

 Colney Heath Ladies starting XI - Amy Mullett, Kelly Hancock, Adrienne Milton, Rachel Sherlow, Kelly Glynn, Kirsty Feasey, Lucy Hancock, Annie Hickey, Sophie Joseph (C), Holly Sheridan & Christina Freestone.

 subs - Jennifer Mansfield, Sammy May, Molly Slade, Eustacia Randles & Victoria Allen.

 Hutton Ladies starting XI - Krissie Glover, Kirsten McLeavy, Amy Crumpler, Kelly Roberts, Rianne Dimmock, Amy Reed, Kaitlin Sugg, Hannah Page (C) Kate Lowen, Hayley Critchell & Laura Allen.

 subs - Sam Kuski.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  An 11am kick-off for the Plate Final, Hutton to get the match started 1st half wearing red shirts with white across the shoulders and collar, with red shorts and socks. Colney Heath lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts. A quiet start to the game both sides looking to put the ball out wide test the others back line. 

  Hutton's Kate Lowen goes after a high ball put forwards by Kaitlin Sugg  out to the right wing is tracked by Colney Heath's Adrienne Milton makes the tackle putting the ball out for a throw deep in the corner. From the throw the ball helped on loops up into the area Sugg has the ball headed into the side of her face as the Colney Heath defence win the header comes back out to the right the return ball into the box cleared by Rachel Sherlow. 

"We'll have that!"

  A positive start from Hutton pressing Colney Heath for the ball inside their own half, win a corner on the right, then the left side the inswinging ball striking the post coming back out into play is scrambled clear. Colney Heath get the ball wide out to the right winning a throw high up the pitch the cross is fired into the six yard box behind the strikers attacking the ball, Amy Reed gets the ball out of the area for Hutton goes straight to Lucy Hancock all of 30 yards out central, meets the ball sweetly with her boot sending it arrowing back in towards goal, Krissie Glover in goal for Hutton can't stop it strikes the crossbar smashed down into the six yard box, Colney Heath striker Christina Freestone is on it in a flash gets her foot up to met the ball in the air is straight at Glover into her body the keeper gets a firm grip on the ball to save.

Colney Heath Ladies striker, Christina Freestone knocks the ball on into the box

  Colney Heath continue to come on with the ball 10 minutes played Milton is fouled by Hutton's Amy Crumpler wide left on halfway the ball played up into the box is headed away by Rianne Dimmock a throw in the left the ball played up into the area Freestone strikes it as it falls at her feet is blocked deflected behind a for corner. Hutton defend look to break, Anne Hickey tackles to regain possession in the middle the ball on into Freestone takes a pop from distance her curling shot only finding the goalkeeper.

  Colney Heath captain, Sophie Joseph holds the ball up as it is played into her feet on the left, Milton goes past her on the overlap the pass finding her her cross into the box finds Freestone near post, looks to find room for a shot no way past Hutton's Kirsten McLeavy marking her closely put back out to Joseph arriving left side of the box the ball is played back into the area, knocked back out centrally comes to Hickey strikes the ball from outside the box the shot whistling over the crossbar.

Colney Heath Ladies captain, Sophie Joseph

  A vital interception from Hutton's McLeavy at the back as Freestone seeing the ball into her feet 30 yards out turns spotting Holly Sheridan on the move on the right, had the ball found her would have been one on one with the keeper. A competitive start, Hutton do't want Colney Heath to settle on the ball as working hard to hustle the ball. Get up the other end Lowen winning a corner on the right the ball sent in near post is cleared by Colney Heath's Kelly Hancock. 

  Milton and Joseph link up on the left side going forwards the cross played in early across the top of the area finds Sheridan on the right outside the area, leaning back as she goes to strike the ball sends her shot across goal looping up starts to dip, not enough to fall under the crossbar. Hutton make an early switch Sam Kuski coming on for Reed midway through the 1st half. 

  A great chance for Colney Heath to open the scoring in the Plate Final as Hickey bringing the ball on through the middle puts it into Freestone before bombing forwards getting the ball returned to her left outside the area, Hutton's Kelly Roberts goes to ground making the tackle, The ball isn't away Hickey wriggles clear with it in behind into the area, looks to pick her spot across the keeper coming to close the angle, Glover makes a fantastic stop with her leg to deflect the ball away across her six yard box. 

Annie Hickey wins the header under challenge from Hutton's Sam Kuski

  Colney Heath continue to create chances as they look to break down a stubborn and organised Hutton defence, Kirsty Feasey carries the ball on through the middle evading a challenge plays a great ball into Sheridan moving to the right into the box is closed down by Kuski as she goes to shoot the ball put a yard wide of goal. Amy Mullett has been little troubled in the Colney Heath goal Glynn and Sherlow winning most thing's in front of her.

  The same two players involved as Colney Heath come forwards again this time it's Sheridan with the ball taking it down the left puts the cross in along the top of the Hutton area runners coming on from midfield, Feasey arriving right side hits the ball 1st time straight at Glover in the Hutton goal the keeper claiming the ball. Kelly Hancock joins the build up on the right side going on with the ball cuts it back into the area Sheridan just inside shoots from the angle again the shot goes straight into Glover. 

Front of picture, Colney Heath Ladies, Kirsty Feasey

  Into the final minutes of the 1st half Colney Heath are stepping it up a level looking to find the break through, Dimmock and Roberts closing down any attempt made to get though the middle. If Colney Heath find a way through the shot is going straight into Glover the keeper well positioned throughout. Feasey plays the ball on for Sheridan with acres of space to run into on the right, puts the ball into the area, Roberts clearing for Hutton in front of Freestone.

Half-time Colney Heath Ladies 0-0 Hutton Ladies

  Goalless at the break as the two sides head back to the dressing room. An intriguing 1st half, Colney Heath on another day might be leading 3-0 however Hutton have defended well kept a good shape and Glover has been in the right place everytime Colney Heath have gotten a shot away from the edge of the area. Little opportunity up the other end Critchell and Lowen getting on the ball left and right trying to thread the ball through the middle Colney Heath's centre backs, Kelly Glynn and Sherlow have converged quickly to close the door in front of goal. All to play for 2nd half. 

Colney Heath Ladies, Annie Hickey tackling Hutton's Amy Crumpler

 Colney Heath to get the 2nd half underway. Attacking down the left the cross is cut out cleared by Dimmock, Kelly Hancock picks it up coming forwards down the right, cutting inside rolls the ball into Feasey, time to line up a shot from 25 yards out, same as in the 1st half is straight at the keeper Glover making a comfortable save. Hickey comes forwards with the ball into the middle has Sheridan drifting out wide right top of the area plays the ball into her, she puts it into Freestone inside her right of the d 20 yards out her shot is blocked by Hutton's Roberts rebounds back out to Hickey 25 yards out right side of goal shoots the ball fired wide of the far post. 

  Freestone gets hold of the ball turning centrally the pass finds Sheridan to her right, looking to drive at the Hutton defence is closed down by Dimmock, with support from Critchell the pair regain possession of the ball. Lucy Hancock plays the ball into Freestone holding it up well right, Sheridan makes a run into the area, Freestone looks to thread the ball into her feet, Roberts does well closing her down and winning the ball in the six yard box. A risky back pass from Dimmock as Colney Heath put the ball straight up through the middle, bouncing Freestone flicks it on for Sheridan falling down into the area Dimmock holding the striker off volleys the ball into her keeper, little time to react Glover meets the ball in the air volleys it out of her box. 

Hutton Ladies, Kelly Roberts

  Hutton's Kuski charging down the ball inside the Colney Heath half on the right goes on before sending it long on the diagonal for Lowen left side, gets the down and manages to keep hold of the ball as Kelly Hancock goes to ground for the challenge moving into the box left looks to shoot, Sherlow recovers getting back throwing her herself across Lowen's path to make the block. 

 Both sides make a change, Hutton bringing Reed back on for Kuski. Eustacia Randles coming on for Colney Heath replacing Freestone. The substitute filling in at left back with Milton coming across to right back, Kelly Hancock pushed higher up the field. Colney Heath have a free-kick in a dangerous position 22 yards out left of the D, Feasey over the ball goes for goal, Glover calls for it and claims at her far post. 

Hutton Ladies captain, Hannah Page getting hold of the ball

  20 minutes left on the clock Hutton get players forwards Allen winning a throw on the left put in long into the area, Sherlow heads away for Colney Heath, Joseph picking up the ball looks to counter, Page comes in to tackle her wins the ball back as they continue to defend.

 GOAL! Against the run of play it's Hutton who break the deadlock finding the back of the Colney Heath goal, the ball won in the middle by Page is played up top with Critchell on the move left side getting onto the ball looks to take the defender on in front of her is pushed wide as she enters the area then unchallenged in the box  sends a looping ball in towards goal up and over the keeper into the back of the net 0-1.

  A blow for Colney Heath attack straight from the restart winning a corer kick on the left the ball floated in centrally, Glover comes for it going to push takes it off Feasey's head on the penalty spot, catches the player aswell as the ball but is okay after treatment. Jennifer Mansfield comes on for Colney Heath replacing Hickey. Dimmock with a controlled header back to her keeper a Sheridan tries to flick the ball on a Kelly Hancock coming forwards plays the ball into her.

Colney Heath Ladies, Kelly Hancock

   Closing in on the final 10 minutes Colney Heath make a triple substitution as they try to break down Hutton's stubborn defence. Molly Slade, Sammy May and Freestone returning come on for Glynn, Kelly Hancock and Joseph. Lucy Hancock on through the middle for Sheridan the tackle made by Dimmock outside the box. With room at the back now as Colney Heath push on Allen taking the ball down the right wins a corner. coming in near post is knocked on towards goal, back on her line Mullet punches the ball away.

  Feasey makes ground with the ball coming through the middle, fires the ball up towards Freestone chests down and turning rolls it into Sheridan right of her into the area, closed down she slides in gets to the ball 1st, her strike narrowly wide of the post. Hutton bring Kuski back on for Crumpler. A long ball from right to left falls to Mansfield inside the box on the left, looks to bring it down and shoot, Reed gets back in time to close her down tackling put the ball behind for the corner. A good delivery going long to the far post, no one can connect sails out for a goal kick. 

 All out attack from Colney Heath as the game goes into stoppage time players swarming around the box but Hutton defend for their lives protecting their lead, Glover coming well plucks the ball of Feasey's raised foot as the midfield tries to bring down a high ball put in from the right. That's it the final whistle blows and Hutton Ladies celebrate winning the ERWFL Plate Final.

Full time Colney Heath Ladies 0-1 Hutton Ladies

    Joy for Hutton Ladies winning the final. Heart break for Colney Heath Ladies suffering defeat for the 3rd successive final would have gone in confident after their successful league campaign, and created a host of chances especially 1st half just couldn't get the ball past Glover in goal. Hutton the underdogs performed well battled hard were resilient and took the lead with one of the few chances they fashioned in the 2nd half.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

 It's that resilience and determination in defending that sees today's SWF Blog - Player of the Match go to Hutton Ladies, Rianne Dimmock defended superbly winning the ball, getting across Colney Heath attackers and making some vital interceptions.

Hutton Ladies, ERWFL Plate Final Winners 2016/17

 Congratulations to Hutton Ladies on winning the ERWFL Plate Final today.

  My thanks to referee Chris Abbott for helping me out with today's team line ups.

Cup Final Report - Ipswich Town Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

 The Friday night football on the Supporting Women's Football Blog comes from the Colchester Community Stadium hosting this season's Suffolk Women's County Cup Final with defending cup holders Ipswich Town Ladies playing Lowestoft Town Ladies. 

  A clash between the two highest league placed sides in the county, both competing in the FAWPL South East Division One. Ipswich Town Ladies looking to win the Suffolk Women's County Cup for a 3rd successive season. 

  Lowestoft Town Ladies in a struggle for survival at the bottom of the table have had a difficult season 3 different managers, with players coming and going been hard to get a settled team but despite their difficulties have reached the County Cup Final. 

Road to the Final

  The two sides were drawn against each other early on in the competition last year an early exit for Lowestoft then Ipswich going on to win the County Cup on the hallowed turf of Portman Road beating Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies.

  Both sides had a Bye in the 1st Round this season entering at the 2nd Round stage. Ipswich were drawn at home to AFC Sudbury Ladies from the ERWFL Premier Division a league below a 5-0 win sending them through to the quarter finals. Lowestoft away to Brandon Town Ladies won the game 4-0 to progress.

  A comfortable 7-1 win away from home against Newmarket Town Ladies in the quarter finals for Ipswich. A tougher game for Lowestoft Town Ladies at home to Bungay Town Ladies the game finishing 2-2 after the 90 minutes went into extra-time Lowestoft finding 2 goals in the extra period to win 4-2 to reach the semi-finals.

 A local derby for Ipswich drawn away to Ipswich Wanders Ladies in the semi-finals the ERWFL Division One side giving them a tough game Ipswich came through to win 2-0 to reach the final once again. Lowestoft also away in the semi-finals playing Suffolk Women's Division side Bacton United Ladies a 4-0 win taking them into the final.

 The venue for tonight's final the Weston Homes Community Stadium, home of League Two side Colchester United FC. Just off the A12 a newly build stadium a large carpark outside, modern facilities 4 large all seater stands open in the corners a large pitch in very good condition despite it being the end of the season. Starting to chill a little after another warm sunny day.

 Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI - Leanne Smith, Jac Ball, Eva Hubbard, Aimee Harrison (C), Lyndsay Cooper, Sian Fagg, Hollie Clement, Natasha Thomas, Sophie Welton, Amy Howlett & Jade Henry.
 subs - Ellie Bird, Roxanne Small, Laura Guyon, Zoe Cossey & Joyce Mlambo.

 Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI - Eilish Brogan, Lyndsey Adams, Charnelle Riggall, Lilly Beuggein, Ellie Froud, Abbie Everson, Ciera Flatt, Cassie Craddock, Gemma Moore, Amy Evans & Hannah Waters (C).
 subs - Alicia Lacey & Kayleigh Steed.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

1st final I've watched this season where all the officials are female left to right
Ali Rampling, Emily Heaslip, Mary Harmer & Harriet Young good to see

It's Lowestoft to get the Suffolk Women's County Cup Final kicked off 1st half wearing their all white away strip with Ipswich are all in blue. The ball is played down the right wing, Lowestoft captain Hannah Waters leading the line up front going after it, closed down by Ipswich's Eva Hubbard the ball out for a throw in. The ball helped on in towards the top of the area is cleared up field by Ipswich captain Aimee Harrison. Retrieving the ball in the middle Gemma Moore tries to put the ball into Waters feet in a central position back to goal flicks it on in behind, Harrison's centre back partner Lindsay Cooper has dropped off Waters giving her the room to intercept the ball.

   Ipswich go forwards pressuring the Lowestoft defence Sophie Welton on the left charges the ball down deflected in behind that side Welton goes after it taking it on towards the byline sends her cross into the box is met by Natasha Thomas her 1st time shot saved well by Eilish Brogan in the Lowestoft goal, still in place inside the six yard box Ipswich give the free-kick away trying to win the scramble for the ball. Ipswich have possession of the ball keeping it inside the Lowestoft half.

  GOAL! The early pressure from Ipswich in the ball brings the opening goal in the 6th minute. Winning a throw in deep on the left the ball is thrown in over the top for striker Jade Henry does well to bring it down under control close to the byline whipping a fantastic ball across the face of the Lowestoft goal up over Brogan falling far post Amy Howlett is there to meet the ball on the volley send it into the back of the net 1-0.

 

Amy Howlett opens the scoring
for Ipswich Town Ladies

Thomas moves out to the right with the ball getting ahead of Howlett plays the ball back up the line to her sends the cross into Henry inside the box right side tries to bring it under control to unleash a shot, Lilly Bueggein closes her down the ball prodded out of the area Howlett latches onto it pulls the trigger her low drive safely into Brogan's gloves as she drops forwards onto the ball. 

  Ipswich continue to dominate a 5 minute spell where the ball doesn't leave the Lowestoft half, midfielder Hollie Clement getting hold of the ball, good footwork to make herself room a long diagonal ball finds Howlett on the move on the right wing down the line, Charnelle Riggall closes her down giving away the corner. A good delivery from the corner into the near post is met by Cooper her header up over the crossbar. 

  Abbie Everson closes the ball down for Lowestoft in the middle takes it on down the right getting a throw in the ball finds Cassie Craddock inside the top corner of the Ipswich area hooks the ball on into the middle of the box, Harrison is under it to head the ball clear. Ipswich win the ball in the middle Sian Fagg playing it up top for Henry to chase down, in behind, Brogan is quickly out the the edge of her area to claim the ball 1st. Brogan with another good claim inside her box from an Ipswich free-kick wide right, Howlett floating the ball in towards the post Harrison coming round behind interested Brogan takes it high before the ball can be attacked.

Lowestoft's Ellie Froud with Ipswich's Natasha Thomas

  Hubbard has time on the ball bringing it on down the left plays the ball into Henry back to goal holds off her marker spinning in field fires a pacey ball into the area, Ellie Froud clears for Lowestoft with 23 minutes played. Lowestoft aren't retaining possession of the ball allowing Ipswich to come at them time and again, Jac Ball comes on from the full back position on the right overlapping Howlett as she lays the ball off gets the return, Riggall in to put away for the throw, Clement has it put into her feet sweeps a cross long towards the far post area, Welton there can't control her header the ball screwing away wide of goal. 

Ipswich Town Ladies, striker Jade Henry looking to find some room

  More great work from Clement in the middle, shifting the ball between her feet losing her marker, moving in field picks out Howlett with another good diagonal ball on the right, 25 yards out meets the dropping ball on the volley sends her strike a yard wide of the near post. Getting plenty of players forwards on the right as Thomas moves down the wing, cuts it back up towards Fagg outside the area right corner, Ball goes beyond her into the area Fagg tries the thread the pass into her run, is intercepted and cut out by Bueggein. 

Lowestoft Town Ladies, Lilly Bueggein

  Clement lets fly from 30 yards out the keeper beaten her strike smashed down off the crossbar still in play the ball is scrambled clear. Lowestoft make the 1st change of the match on the half hour, Amy Evans coming off for Alicia Lacey. Very little opportunity for Lowestoft's forward players to get anything going up top back in their own half as Ipswich continue to dominate possession. Moving inside Welton meets the ball put into her by Howlett from the right on the volley puts it straight at Brogan the keeper gathering. 

  Fagg slides the ball into Henry moving into space on the right into the box, clear on goal, Brogan comes sliding in to challenge her the pair collide the ball escaping in behind rolls wide a corner signalled. 

 GOAL! Ipswich double their lead from the resulting corner kick the delivery played in near post is attacked by Cooper this time her bullet of a header finds the back of the net to make it 2-0.

  Into the final 6 minutes of the 1st half Ipswich in full control Lowestoft with little in the final 3rd build an attack on the right as Waters gives chase to a ball played long by Everson winning it in the middle, Everson goes on as Waters gets hold of the ball on the touchline overlapping her Waters passes the ball on into the midfielders run holding it up gives it back to Waters as she goes past her into the corner closing on the byline plays the cross into the box over Lacey central top of the six yard box, falling to Craddock beyond strikes it as it fall the ball swerving wide of goal.

Lowestoft Town Ladies captain, Hannah Waters bringing the ball on

  Lowestoft enjoy a little spell of possession late in the 1st half winning a corner on the right the delivery into the near post is headed down by Ciera Flatt landing inside the six yard box Ipswich to it first kick clear. Craddock receives the ball from a throw in inside the top corner of the Ipswich area, right side loos to turn and charge her way through, no way past Harrison the ball is cleared Ipswich threaten to break the ball on the right played on a vital interception by Froud at the back.

Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 2-0 Lowestoft Town Ladies

 A 2-0 lead for Ipswich as the two sides return the the dressing rooms at half-time. Have dominated the ball well holding possession with some good touches players always on the move up top Howlett right, Welton left, Thomas drifting, everything she tries coming off for Clement in the midfield. Waters isolated up top for Lowestoft is a willing runner but all to often the ball is rushed not finding her. Despite Ipswich's dominance the 2-0 lead isn't a surmountable score still all to play for 2nd half will need to get hold of the ball however.

 Ipswich get the 2nd half underway go straight on the attack Henry moving out to the right wins a throw the ball comes all the way across to the left side a low cross fired into the box cutout by Flatt. Strong holding up the ball Henry gets in behind on the right side puts a high cross into the six yard box, Brogan is under it takes the catch above her head. Referee Emily Heaslip awards Ipswich a free-kick midway inside the Lowestoft half a Lacey brings down Thomas, Clement over the ball a good delivery in towards the far post no one attacks it runs wide for the goal-kick.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Jade Henry

  GOAL! A strong start to the 2nd half for Ipswich and it brings them a 3rd goal. The build up starts on halfway played into Howlett on the right, sends the ball on for Henry moving down the right wing into the corner whips a great cross into the box just over the leaping Thomas in a central position falls t Welton arriving far side she headers the ball back across into the back of the net to make it 3-0. A little under 10 minutes played in the 2nd half.

Sophie Welton extends Ipswich Town  Ladies
lead early in the 2nd half

  Lowestoft get forwards Lacey running with purpose in the Ipswich half right side sends the ball on for Waters making a run ahead of her, hitting the shot early 20 yards out the ball is deflected off a defender behind for a corner kick. Before it is taken both sides make a substitution, Ipswich sent on Joyce Mlambo to replace Henry up top. Lowestoft bring Moore off send on Kayleigh Steed.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Hollie Clement

  The corner is played in from the right towards Lacey near side top of the area lets it roll on arriving at Steed outside the area left of the D let's fly with a sweet strike, the substitute seeing her shot smash against the crossbar, dropping down into the six yard box their is a scramble for the ball a shot blocked inside the six yard box before Everson stabs it wide.


  Howlett taking the ball on has Thomas on the move in behind looks to thread the pass into her run, Riggall cuts it out for Lowestoft. Between them Clement and Fagg continue to dominate the midfield for Ipswich although Lacey has made a difference for Lowestoft with her work rate trying to close the ball down is giving away a few free-kicks. Another substitution for Ipswich, Zoe Cossey coming on for Welton on the left. A pacey player Cossey gets an early chance to have a run at the Lowestoft defence on the right into the box Adams closing her down tackles to put the ball away for a throw. Into the final 20 minutes. 

 GOAL! Howlett down the right wing fires a low cross into the six yard box, Brogan gets down low to get a glove on the ball as Thomas comes racing in the ball isn't secure and on top of the keeper, Thomas bundles the ball past her to score in the final 4-0.

  Ipswich make a change soon after bringing on Laura Guyon for Clement in midfield. Lowestoft bring Moore and Evans back on for Craddock and Flatt. Moore picking up the ball comes in from the right driving forwards sends the ball into the area goes long Hubbard far side heads the ball out of the area falling to Everson 30 yards out she takes on the volley drills the ball back in wide of goal however.

Howlett comes off for Ipswich replaced by Roxanne Small. One foul to many by Lacey, the referee totting them up issues her with a yellow card. Guyon to play it into the area from the right, Froud heads clear for Lowestoft. Moore with another strong run on the ball right side into the area for Lowestoft charging into the area too many bodies in front of her but wins a corner, the corner goes long Ipswich go on the attack the ball sent long up front Brogan comes racing out of her area ti kick clear the ball going straight to Guyon just over halfway tries to send it into the empty net, her effort curling is just over the bar.

Lowestoft Town Ladies, Amy Evans

  With a comfortable lead closing in on the final 5 minutes Ipswich make a keeper switch bringing off Leanne Smith who has been rarely called into action sending on Ellie Bird. Lacey and Everson off for Lowestoft late on Flatt and Craddock back on. 

 GOAL! Pushing forwards in the latter stages of the game Ipswich have the ball right the cross is along the top of the area Guyon inside the D lets it run on for Cossey outside the area left side, goes for goal a pearler of a strike looping up and into the top corner Brogan no chance as she dives across. 5-0.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Zoe Cossey warming up before the Final
puts the ball into hte top corner to make it 5-0

  The 90 minutes almost up Lowestoft get the ball into Moore on the right driving on lets fly from 25 yards out her strike blazing wide of the near post. Into added time 3 minutes to be played. Small is brought down in a central position as she looks to take the ball on through the middle. Guyon floats it into the box for players to attack far post runs behind for the goalkick. Ipswich have the ball late on Brogan comes rushing out to stop Thomas coming into the area from the right, A corner the result goes long the header isn't on target.

Full time Ipswich Town Ladies 5-0 Lowestoft Town Ladies

  Ipswich celebrate at the final whistle winning the Suffolk Women's County Cup for the 3rd consecutive season. In control of the game from start to finish dominant in possession and retention of the ball all 5 goals well taken were rarely troubled at the back by Lowestoft who worked hard without finding a foot hold on the ball.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

Tonight's SWF Blog - Player of the Match goes to Ipswich Town Ladies Hollie Clement a terrific effort in midfield, some nice trickery and foot work and it was one of those games were everything she tried came off, a good performance.

Suffolk Women's County Cup Winners 201617 Ipswich Town Ladies

 Congratulations to Ipswich Town Ladies on retaining the Suffolk Women's County Cup for a 3rd season.

  My thanks to the staff at Colchester United FC and the Suffolk FA for all their assistance tonight an enjoyable experience at a great venue.

Match Report - Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

 A spot of Tuesday night football action on the Supporting Women's Football Blog this week with a trip to the Stadium MK to watch a game from the FAWPL South East Division One, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies v Cambridge United WFC. 

  A big match for both sides currently 2 of 3 sides looking to secure a 2nd place finish in the league after unbeaten Gillingham FC Ladies secured the title and with it promotion back to the FAWPL Southern Division after a 2 season absence.  

  Both Milton Keynes Dons Ladies and Cambridge United WFC have been in and around the top 4 all season, Cambridge United WFC leading for a good portion of the early season before a run in the FA Women's Cup allowed Gillingham to catch up their games in hand and over haul everyone without defeat. 

  Into May the season drawing to a close two matches left to play for both sides in the league, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies came back from a goal down away to Enfield Town Ladies to win 2-1 the 3 points taking them 2 points clear in 2nd place with games home and away to Cambridge United WFC left. A special occasion for the club getting the opportunity to play at the Stadium MK an impressive venue that of course has hosted the Lionesses recently. Great for the players fans and staff from both clubs to showcase the women's game and it has been really encouraging to see so many women's sides getting the opportunity to play at their clubs main stadium this season.

  2 successive defeats have put a dent in Cambridge United WFC's own ambitions going well early in the season their cup run allowing others to catch up. Defeat away to Luton Town Ladies and then a 2-1 loss to Gillingham FC Ladies on Sunday sees them in 4th with these 2 games against Milton Keynes Dons to play a defeat and they can't finish 2nd. A win or draw will take the contest for 2nd to the final day. Cambridge United WFC have also had another great opportunity to play at The Abbey Stadium home of Cambridge United FC this season beating Ipswich Town Ladies. 

  The Stadium MK is a lovely stadium to showcase the game, a modern well laid out venue a few roundabouts to negotiate well sign posted however with plenty of parking outside the ground. Free entry on the night. A large pitch in great condition the lower tier on one side behind the dugouts open to fans several coming in. An all seater stadium comfortable wide padded seats. A mild evening dry great for a game of football. 

 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies starting XI - Savannah Smith, Louise Naylor, Sam Gillings, Leanne Doyle, Vicky Holland, Charley Clarke, Amelia Hazard, Tayla Duffy, Heather McDonnell, Anna Loftus & Hannah Barrett.
 subs - Kara Howes, Charly Wright, Kerry Newman, Amy Gooderham & Lauren Goodier

 Cambridge United WFC starting XI - Liz Pamplin, Emma Jenkins, Carrie Bennett, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Paige Logie, Ashleigh Deacon, Laura Mills, Evie Gallop, Sarah Wiltshire & Nicole Perschky.
 subs - Laura Baker, Carolyn Sarafian, Gabrielle Whitehurst & Lauren Gibson

An injury blow for Cambridge with Becky Taylor out having damaged her knee ligaments at the weekend against Gillingham. Liz Pamplin deputising in goal with 1st choice keeper Verity Crook absent. Sarah Wiltshire dual signed to Cambridge from Yeovil during the Spring Series available tonight. It's Milton Keynes to get the game underway wearing an all red kit. Cambridge wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts. 

 Cambridge win the ball in the middle of the park play spread out to the right wing Laura Mills looking to drive on is tackled Milton Keynes bring the ball forwards Sam Gillings up the left plays the ball up into the box headed away by Cambridge captain Laura Bright out to the right fired back in towards the top of the area Hannah Barrett knocks in on for Tayla Duffy left of goal shoots putting the ball narrowly wide across the face of goal.

  A good start from Milton Keynes keeping possession of the ball inside the Cambridge half, Loftus taking players on with a powerful run through the middle into the area, the ball won before she can line up a shot cleared out to the right. Leanna Doyle brings the ball forwards from the back for Milton Keynes on the right lays the ball inside into Loftus in the middle who drives forwards with the ball again determined to get into the box, is closed down by Bright the ball won, played forwards into Evie Gallop on the left side getting forwards wins Cambridge their 1st corner of the game, played into the centre of the six yard box goalkeeper Savannah Smith claims without challenge.

  Emma Jenkins on the right for Cambridge get onto the end of Smith's kick out from the back pushes forwards before letting fly from distance, might have been going wide of her left post Smith gets down nevertheless to make the save. Milton Keynes come forwards play on the left space for Doyle on the right gets forwards into the box as the diagonal ball comes in brings it down well, full back Carrie Bennett slides in to put the ball behind for the corner. Cleared from inside the six yard box Mills on the ball looks to break up to Nicole Perschky has Ashleigh Deacon ahead of her rolling the ball into her path Deacon is closed down as she looks to get into the box.

 GOAL! Milton Keynes take the lead in the 10th minute attacking down the left wing, Taylor Duffy squares the ball across the top of the Cambridge area, Amelia Hazard knocks the ball in Barrett just outside the box left of the D, takes on the shot her low drive across Pamplin into the bottom corner 1-0.

  Milton Keynes continue to move the ball well Loftus making so strong runs on the ball through the middle driving forwards puts the ball into Heather McDonnell as she gets into the box on the right, shifting the ball inside goes to shoot her strike blocked by defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt is deflected behind for a corner. From the right the ball goes long towards the far post Barrett up to head the ball inside the six yard box knocks it down into the ground, Pamplin down sharply to make the save on her goal line.

  Few chances for Cambridge early on Milton Keynes on top in the opening 15 minutes. Loftus with another central run has too many bodies to go through as she is closed down inside the box. Burt defends really well against Barrett inside the six yard box as Duffy plays the ball in from the left wing wins the ball and clears for Cambridge. The ball is played into Deacon in the centre of midfield for Cambridge she plays the pass out to Mills already on the move on the right wing driving on plays the early cross high into the box, Wiltshire clear outside the six yard box meets the ball on the volley sends her effort over the crossbar.

  Good tackling from Deacon coming left to stop Loftus getting forwards on halfway, bringing the ball away with her passes inside to Wiltshire before continuing her run down the wing, Wiltshire sending the return ball into her feet, crosses the ball along the top of the area just behind Perschky she manages to knock it on for Mills right side knocks the ball on into the area her 1st touch a little too heavy Smith is able to reach it first. 

  Both Bennett and then Burt defend well as Milton Keynes get Doyle forwards on the right to support the attack. Winning the ball at the back Vicky Holland, Milton Keynes player of the year comes forwards passing the ball into captain Charley Clarke then out to the left the cross put into the middle for Loftus 20 yards out sees her strike charged down, another bite also blocked then Pamplin is right behind the all as it is struck in from 25 yards out midway though the 1st half. 

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Vicky Holland

  A few fouls being given away as Cambridge look to up their tempo get players on the ball, Gallop on the left wanting to get in behind. Wiltshire and Gallop look to combine down the left side, the latter fouled outside the area, Wiltshire over the free-kick sends the ball long players attacking far post no one can connect goal kick. Winning the ball inside the Milton Keynes half Paige Logie plays it forwards into Wiltshire moving away to the left looking to take the ball on into the box is closed down by Holland appeals from Cambridge as the defender muscles Wiltshire off the ball, the referee isn't interested.

  GOAL! Another surging run through the middle leads to Milton Keynes doubling their lead in the 32nd minute. Taking the ball on into the box puts it into Barrett to her right, no room for a shot sees Amelia Hazard free outside the area plays the ball back to her striking it first time the shot swerves away from Pamplin and into the top left corner of the net 2-0.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Amelia Hazard holding off
Cambridge United WFC's Ashleigh Deacon

 GOAL! Cambridge respond straight away from the restart pulling a goal back is a superb individual goal from Gallop picking the ball up in a central position inside the Milton Keynes half takes in forwards 30 yards out shifts the ball to her right and pulls the trigger getting plenty of power through her boot sends the ball rocketing past Smith into the back of the goal 2-1.

  Gallop is brought down in the centre circle a blow to her back, the referee plays the advantage with the ball at Mills' feet on the right puts and early ball into the area to close to the near post Smith takes it cleanly. Cambridge physio Jay Smith runs onto the field to treat Gallop the young attacker gingerly gets back to her feet. Play resumes the ball played up to Loftus she drives forwards putting the ball into Barrett's feet as she enters the box looks to push on is closed down and tackled by Burt. 

  The foul count is increasing Wiltshire brought down wide left, takes the resulting free-kick put long towards the far post Milton Keynes get a head on the ball cleared to the top of the area, Deacon gets her head on the ball attempting to place it sees it drop wide of goal. Loftus goes after and retrieves a long diagonal ball played into the right corner, fires a cross back into the area along the six yard box Barrett meets it Bright blocks the shot deflecting into the path of Burt, Cambridge get it clear. 

  Milton Keynes are getting upset as a number of decisions go against the late in the half giving away free-kicks, Deacon is fouled in front of the centre circle inside the Milton Keynes half. A long way out Wiltshire looks to go for goal on target but never troubling Smith.

Half-time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2-1 Cambridge United WFC

 2-1 the lead for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies as they head back down the tunnel to the dressing room. A good start from the home side taking an early lead creating other opportunities doubling the lead just past the half hour mark a vital response from Cambridge to pull a goal back straight away. A narrow lead everything still to play for 2nd half. 

  A change for Cambridge at the start of the second half Laura Baker coming in to replace Gallop going into the centre of midfield, Deacon moving out to the left. Cambridge to kick-off the 2nd half, Milton Keynes pressure the ball straight away winning in played on for Duffy down the left win is fouled by Jenkins near the corner flag, ironic cheers from the home crowd unhappy with some decisions in the 1st half. Near enough a corner kick the ball is played up into the box dropping for Clarke she is quickly closed down the ball deflected out to the top of the area McDonnell goes to strike it first time slices her effort away from goal.

 

Cambridge United WFC's
Nicole Perschky

Milton Keynes with a positive start 2nd half push forwards, Duffy's cross from the left headed away by Bright. Jenkins with Mills coming back to support her deals with Duffy coming down the left again as McDonnell passes the ball into her. Mills gets the ball on the right for Cambridge, passes it inside to Wiltshire combining with Perschky, Wiltshire played on into the box is pushed wide gets a cross in from the byline going long Deacon is there, the ball waist height does well to hook it down then looking to turn into the shot from close range sees Smith on top of her coming in to grab the ball. 

 Milton Keynes make their first change in the 58th minute, Naylor coming off with Kara Howes coming on slotting into the right back position. Holland is shown a yellow card for a foul on Perschky midway inside the half in a central position. Mills over the ball is fired in low helped onto Logie in space her shot is charged down. Out to Baker left of goal outside the box put back in headed out of the box Cambridge retain possession Wiltshire taking the ball down byline wins a corner. Fired in from the right Holland clears for Milton Keynes. A 2nd change for Milton Keynes, Duffy comes off, Charly Wright joins the action.

 GOAL! Midway through the 2nd half and Milton Keynes extend their lead. Awarded a free-kick wide left it's Wright newly arrived to the game to put the set-piece on up into the area going long Cambridge don't get it cleared far enough drops to Loftus at the top of the area prods it back inside to Barrett inside the six yard box right of goal sends her shot across the keeper and into the back of the net for her 2nd of the game 3-1. 

Two goals for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies
Hannah Barrett

  A chance for McDonnell to have a strike at goal as the ball is played into her inside the D, gets her shot away a low ball Pamplin is behind it all the way. Deacon is given the ball by Baker has a go from long range the ball looping up into the air is seen safely over by Smith. Another yellow card is shown by the referee this time for Howes for Milton Keynes. A 3rd and final substitution before the free-kick wide left can be taken, Kerry Newman comes on to replace McDonnell. Wiltshire on the set-piece played long the flag goes up for offside.

  Into the last 10 minutes, Doyle is yellow carded after bringing down Perschky, the ball played up towards the top of the area, Milton Keynes win it and launch a counter attack, Newman is fouled by Jenkins 25 yards out from goal the Cambridge right back shown the yellow card.

 GOAL! From the resulting free-kick Milton Keynes make the result safe 25 yards out right side, Wright on the ball gets plenty of power into her run up striking the ball arrow straight it flies into the back of the net 4-1. 

  It all kicks off on the pitch in front of the Milton Keynes dug out, a coming together between Loftus and Baker, the Milton Keynes attacker on the ground lashes out at Baker, who lashes out in kind, before you know it players from both sides are piling in, madness not what the watching crowd need or want to witness when you're aiming to promote the game. The referee gets things calmed a little goes over to consult with his linesman who was close to the incident. Loftus is shown a straight red card. Baker along with Wright are called over and both shown a yellow. 

  Into stoppage time a corner kick for Cambridge on the left the ball played in towards Logie near post turns an hits it straight at Smith the goalkeeper coming to close her down. Milton Keynes seeing out the remaining minutes celebrate at the final whistle.

Full time Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 4-1 Cambridge United WFC

 The result secures runners-up spot in the FAWPL South East Division One for Milton Keynes Dons Ladies great to get it at the Stadium MK too. Started the better and put on a good performance to beat Cambridge and take all 3 points. A bitter blow for Cambridge right at the end of the season having been pushing all the way 3 straight defeats have taken the gloss off in 4th place level on points with AFC Wimbledon Ladies going into the last weekend are at home to Milton Keynes 3rd place now the goal. AFC Wimbledon Ladies at home to Gillingham FC Ladies who will be looking to  end the season unbeaten.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

  Tonight's SWF Blog - Player of the Match goes to Milton Keynes Dons Ladies Vicky Holland thought she was superb at the back limiting opportunities for Cambridge and coming out to pressure the ball.

  A fantastic crowd of 463 coming to watch the game were treated to some fantastic goals, thanks to MK Dons FC for giving both sides the opportunity to play at the Stadium MK and I hope the Ladies side get another opportunity to do so soon.