Match Report - Reading FC Women v Oxford United Women

   A Thursday night trip down to Farnborough to watch some action from the FAWSL 2 today. My 1st chance to have a look at Reading FC Women this season, their opponents tonight Oxford United Women.

   Reading FC Women are many peoples favorites to chase down one of the two promotion spots on offer this season in FAWSL2 had a strong finish to the league last year in it's debut season and have retained the services of exciting youngster Fran Kirby who broke into the England Women's team last year on the back of some stunning performances.

   Has started this season where she left of as Reading FC Women got of to a fantastic start to the season with Kirby scoring 10 goals alone as the club won their opening 3 league games to climb to the top of the FAWSL2 table. Last time out though they dropped their 1st points of the season losing at home 2-4 to Yeovil Town Ladies.

   Oxford United Women had started the season with an opening day victory to register 3 early points, since then though they have lost their last 3 matches away to Durham Women and then at home to Yeovil Town Ladies and Aston Villa Ladies this past Sunday. Travelling to Reading they know they will need to be at their best if they want to take anything from the game.

  A midweek journey from Norfolk to Farnborough FC where Reading FC Women play their home matches is always going to be a challenge even sacrificing my lunch break I got held up in traffic everywhere and got there half an hour before kick off, the stadium has a large car park though so no trouble there, and I was hungry too, they do good refreshments too, very rarely stray away from the cheeseburger option, chips too tonight as I took my seat for the match.

  Being a decent sized non league stadium there is seating all round, good facilities the pitch looked in very good condition has a sprinkler system installed to keep the grass covering thick. A bright and pleasant evening as the teams took to the pitch.

   Reading FC Women starting XI - Grace Moloney, Molly Bartrip, Rebecca Jane, Kirsty McGee (C), Kylie Davies, Bonnie Horwood, Georgina Giddings, Emma Follis, Lauren Bruton, Helen Ward & Fran Kirby.
   subs - Lois Roche, Laura May-Walkley, Bianca Bragg, Charlie Estcourt, Eloise Wilson, Rachel Rowe & Chloe Samson.

  Oxford United Women starting XI - Demi Lambourne, Isi Meade, Laura Nichol, Rosie Lane, Sahara Osborne-Ricketts (C), Kayleigh Hines, Katherine Nutman, Katie Stanley, Hannah Jaadla, Holly Pickett & Lauren Allison.
  subs - Hannah Cox, Amy Chivers, Lindsay Pinker, Helen King, Chloe Bruce & Laura Low.

   It's Oxford in their yellow shirts, with navy shorts and socks to get the match under way against Reading lined up in white and blue striped shirts, blue shorts and white socks. The visitors starting brightly winning an early corner on the right as Katie Stanley looks to take the ball on and drive into the area. From the corner it's Katherine Nutman to play the ball into the area in the box Kayleigh Hines makes minimal contact with her head before Reading get it away.

    A 2nd corner is nodded on at the near post into the crowded area beyond, the ball is cleared out as far a Holly Pickett on the edge of the area she shoots the effort is blocked Reading launch a counter attack get Fran Kirby onto the ball down the left, looking to come inside Oxford goalkeeper Demi Lambourne comes and diving claims the ball at Kirby's feet. Is a positive start from both sides.

Oxford's Kayleigh Hines

   GOAL! Oxford do well working the ball down the left win another corner, the ball is played into the crowded six yard box, Reading goalkeeper Grace Moloney comes and looks to punch the ball away from danger, only succeeds in getting it out as far as the edge of the area, it's Pickett again who gets her head to the ball looks to send it high back into the danger area is heading for the far post looks to be going in, coming in it's Kayleigh Hines with the final touch to ensure the ball goes over the line 0-1.

   Reading are on the attack with Bonnie Horwood getting hold of the ball in the centre has Kirby making a run to her left, rolls the ball out to her, Taking her marker on Kirby sends her cross into the area is long, she has Emma Follis coming in from the right side of the pitch to meet it is a tight angle, she gets her head to the ball knocking it down back towards goal, Lambourne makes the save.

   Oxford are working hard as a unit early on moving back and forth up the pitch limiting the space Reading can have to run in behind, are winning the ball back and looking to counter attack, Lauren Allison playing up front is getting support quicker, tries to slide a ball thorugh for Pickett, it's Reading defender Molly Bartrip who gets to the ball 1st.

   GOAL! Reading's Lauren Bruton is fouled inside the Oxford box as the home side break getting the ball up the pitch and into Bruton's feet back to goal. The referee points to the penalty spot. It's Bruton herself to take makes no mistake hammering the ball to Lambourne's right and into the back of the net to bring the scores level with 15 minutes played 1-1.

Laruen Bruton scoring Reading's penalty

  Kirby out on the left is always prepared to take players on cutting back inside she fires a fierce cross into the area, it hit's Horwood before being deflected into the path of Helen Ward to her right she turns it goal wards, Lambourne though is alert and gathers the ball. Whilst out on the right Emma Follis too is doing well looking to take players on get the ball into the area sends the ball into Bruton standing in a central position inside the box, as she takes the ball is being closed down is a collision with keeper Lambourne, Bruton is down again this time the referee waves play on.

    In the centre of midfield for Reading's Georgina Giddings rolls the ball into Horwood, 30 yards out she looks to take on the shot, gets some swerve on the ball though Lambourne has time to shuffle across and take the ball into her chest. Reading are getting on the ball but finding it tough trying to get beyond the Oxford full back more often than not are forced back inside and put in an cross in front of the box that is easily dealt with.

   Hines brings the ball forwards for Oxford, has Nutman making a great attacking run in front of her looks to play her in, Moloney comes out of the Reading goal to clear the ball, only as far of Oxford's Laura Nichol, she fires the ball back in towards goal and out of play, Moloney is far from happy.

    Allison taking the ball down the right looks to put the cross into the box Bartrip gets something on the ball diverting it to the edge of the box, Nutman is the player racing in looking to strike the ball the shot is blocked at close range.

    Kirby has the ball played forwards into her path, looks to push forwards to the right of the goal outside head down puts her foot through the shot drill it low and hard across the goal face and out for a goal kick. Another cross comes in from the right Oxford have gotten something on the ball taking the sting out of it is bouncing through to Bruton who looks to hit the ball on the turn puts her effort high and wide.

   Oxford captain Sahara Osborne- Ricketts brings the ball out from the back travelling into the Reading half is scythed down by Follis in a position wide right a good distance from goal, Osborne-Ricketts looks to play the ball into the area gets to much on it sends it out of play before anyone can attack it.

                            Half time Reading FC Women 1-1 Oxford United Women

    Oxford are doing well keeping a good shape playing a 4-1-4-1 formation with Hannah Jaadla offering good support to the back 4, which in term is allowing Nutman and Hines to go forward more along with Pickett and Stanley out wide too is meaning lone striker Allison who is often cutting a lone furrow for Oxford in attack is getting more support and more effective when she gets the ball.

   Reading are getting the numbers forwards but finding it hard to get around a disciplined Oxford defence. Horwood is spraying the ball left and right with Kirby and Follis looking to take players on and get it into Ward and Bruton in the middle. Has been a very fast and high tempo game so far. It's Reading to get the 2nd half under way.

  Again though it's Oxford that start positively with the ball down the left played into Hines she looks to shoot from the edge of the box, screw her shot wide of goal, takes a nick on the way through as a corner is given. Reading win the corner as it comes in look to break Oxford are quick to regroup and break up the move.

  On the over lap for Reading, Becky Jane takes the ball past Oxford full back Isi Meade, comes inside fires the ball into Ward inside the box she can't make room to shoot gives it back to Jane, she tries to force her way through for a shot inside the box, Meade is after her with Osborne-Ricketts in close company defend well.

   The game continues to be fast flowing no sooner is one team attacking the others box then the other is hunting with the ball going the other way. Oxford win another corner, played in from the left the ball is cleared but only as far as right back Laura Nichol 40 yards out to the right of goal, she takes a shot the ball bouncing through to Moloney.

   Giddings goes forwards from Reading, with Kirby attacking down the left squares the ball through to Giddings outside the she attempts to hit the ball on the half volley, popping up she slices the shot wide.

   Oxford are frustrating Reading there are a few strong challenges coming in from both sides, the referee though continues to let the game flow. A free kick is conceded in the Oxford half though it's Follis who get's the talking too from the referee. Lambourne to take plays a great ball up the pitch it's Allison clearing the Reading defence that is chasing after it can't wrap her foot around the ball before it runs out of play.

    Reading are starting to see more of the ball, as they come forwards into the Oxford half, though the build up is a little slow as they all look to pick out the right pass, giving Oxford the chance to get everyone behind the ball again. More often than not it's Jaadla the one who puts the tackle in to win the ball back. Comes back tracking Bruton as she looks to bring the ball into the box, the Estonian international takes the ball off her feet before the shot can test the defence beyond.

    Lambourne is called into action making a good double save as Horwood is played through the centre in on goal has Kirby in support to her right, but opts to shoot from the edge of the area, Lambourne makes the save the ball squirms loose though but is up and throws herself on the ball before Kirby can pounce.

   Giddings blazes a shot wide as the ball is kicked out to her after Kirby tries to take on everyone to get a shot in on goal, the ball is half cleared to Giddings who shoots. More frustration is shown by the Reading players as refereeing decisions go against them. Another Reading move, Horwood with Kirby outside the area, the midfielder tries to roll the ball into Kirby's feet as she enters the area, Jaadla though is round once again on the cover to putting in the ball winning tackle.

   Reading cry out wanting a penalty, as Jane trying to steal into the box from the right is tugged back by Pickett inside the area, referee doesn't give anything is the wrong side of the incident to be fair although his linesman wasn't. Reading are putting the Oxford goal under siege is an intense spell with attempted shots and blocks being put in, are a lot of bodies inside the box little space for the ball to squeeze through.

   Another penalty shout for Reading, as Kirby trying to get after the ball from outside the box tumble over as she makes contact with Osborne-Ricketts who is down on the floor, again the referee shows no interest much to the dismay of the Reading crowd. Not long after and the crowd are up in arms again is Meade who misses her tackle clips Follis on the ankle as she looks to come inside into the box run beyond her, stays on her feet though and the protests are ignored.

    GOAL! Reading's annoyance is only compounded when Oxford break out with the ball and retake the lead with a beauty of a strike from Kayleigh Hines. The ball is played into the midfielder from the right 35 yards out she drives her shot towards the Reading goal, Moloney throws herself across to try and stop it, can't and it's 1-2.

    GOAL! No sooner have Oxford finished celebrating taking the lead for the 2nd time in the match then Reading pin the scores back level. From the retake, the ball comes to Bruton, travelling forwards she takes on the shot from outside the area, makes great contact sending the ball beyond Lambourne and into the top corner of the net 2-2. Reading make their 1st change bringing of captain McGee and bringing on Lois Roche with 70 minutes played.

    Another fantastic double save by Lambourne to keep the scores level as Follis manages to go beyond Meade this time gets into the box fires the ball towards goal, Lambourne throws her gloves up knocks the ball away it is rolling across goal to the far post the danger not cleared as Horwood is racing in to try a poke the ball home, Lambourne scrambles and determinedly throws herself at Horwood's feet to smother the ball. oxford make their 1st change with Allison the playing leaving the field and Ella Franklin-Fraiture coming on.

   Reading are forcing the play late on with 1st Roche putting a shot over the bar from distance then Molly Bartrip bombing forwards from the back taking on an early shot drilling it wide. Oxford are still looking to go forwards themselves, good work from Stanley on the right, beats her marker turning inside fires the ball into Franklin-Fraiture inside the D, has Jane coming across to prevent her getting a shot on goal, puts in a great tackle to deny the shooting chance.

   Jaadla is rash with a challenge late on sliding in on Kirby. The free kick to the left side of the box 25 yards out Kirby is over the ball looks to go for goal, smashes it against the cross bar and over. Jaadla is substituted for Oxford, Chloe Bruce coming on, not long after Laura Low comes on to for Pickett. Into injury time a last attack for Reading as Follis looks to roll the ball forwards into the run of Bruton, it's Meade coming across to make the tackle.

    The final whistle blows and the match ends in a 2-2 draw. Oxford the much happier of the 2 sides having picked up a point away from home. Reading drop points at the top of the table for the 2nd successive home match.

   A good point earned by Oxford away to Reading, maybe even feel they could have taken the 3 points on the night, may have if they had held the lead longer on both occasions. Nevertheless this is one of the best performances I've seen from the team and after covering a few defeats on the blog it's nice to write about a positive score line. Manager Les Taylor will be pleased with the work rate and discipline his team showed tonight especially as the performance was maintained over the whole 90 minutes.

  Reading will be disappointed created plenty of chances that one another night would have carved a team apart will feel aggrieved that they should maybe have been awarded at least 2 more penalties having seen them live I know they may well have been given on a different day. Another highly competitive game from FAWSL2 women's football matches are usually high tempo affairs anyway, but this one was played at a furious pace.

  Reading's point sees them move to 10 points at the top of the table on goal difference over Doncaster Rovers Belles who play Aston Villa Ladies at the weekend.

  

 

  

Match Report - Brandon Town Ladies v Sprowston Ladies Reserves

  After watching 4 women's cup finals in a row tonight it's a return to league action. The game in Norfolk Women's Division Two as title chasing Brandon Town Ladies host Sprowston Ladies Reserves.

   Brandon Town Ladies have come into the Norfolk women's football set up having played in Suffolk before, joining Norfolk Women's Division Two they were one of the favourites for the title. Have had a fantastic league season to date, a 100% win record having played 17 games scoring a staggering 141 goals and conceding just the 4! Have 5 league games left to play lay 3 points behind leaders Lynn Ladies but with 2 games in hand. Has been a busy league and cup schedule have reached the final of the Norfolk Ladies League Cup which has seen a back log of fixtures with postponements to and the need for some midweek fixtures late on to squeeze all the games in.

   Sprowston Ladies Reserves are a new side to the division this season, with their 1st team stepping up to compete in Norfolk Women's Division One, the club entered a reserves side to the 2nd tier. A clutch of new women's football teams that have entered the division, the club didn't get off to the best of starts to the season losing their opening 4 matches. That all changed at the end of November 2014 going into December with the side seeing a massive turn around a purple patch that saw them win 4 matches in a row and start moving up the table. Since the start of the year results have been up and down currently sit in 9th place in the table.

   Brandon Town Ladies play their night fixtures up the road at Thetford Town FC a small stadium on the outskirts of the town, is a tight ground barely room for a stand along one side and the pitch itself which slopes from one side to the other. A little cooler tonight than it has been of late, but bright and clear the setting sun might pose a problem before the floodlights come on.

   Brandon Town Ladies starting XI - Shannon Odebrecht, Eleanor Marshall, Laura Grove, Brooke Wickens, Natasha Rutter, Georgina O'Malley, Hazel Shepherd, Tiffany Forshaw (C), Laura Brame, Leanne Sloan & Anna Tarmanowska
   subs - Chelsea Paremain.

   Sprowston Ladies Reserves starting XI - Tracey Bell, Sophia Charlalambous, Hayley Muir (C), Liz Johnson, Lois Irving, Rebecca Kirby, Keri Boorman, Denise Leahy, Annika Skoog, Jo Davey & Kerry Mortlock.
   subs - Laura Jenkins, Louise Aldous & Erica Lakey.

  It's Sprowston to get the match under way kitted out in orange shirts with black across the right shoulder and sleeve, black shorts and socks, with Brandon lined up opposite them in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts.

  Isn't long before Brandon are on the attack with the ball being played into Laura Brame up top her back to goal she has team captain Tiffany Forshaw making the run into the right channel slides the ball into her path pushing to the by line she looks to square the ball back into the area comes in low to the near post, Sprowston goalkeeper Tracey Bell has her near post covered and takes the ball.

    Brandon win an early corner, the ball being played in from the right, is headed on across the goal face from the crowded near post, Forshaw has a free header coming in beyond nodding the ball into the back of the net, thinks she'd opened the scoring, but the referee indicates an infringement was spotted a free kick is awarded to Sprowston instead.

   Brooke Wickens on the right of midfield for Brandon is seeing quite a bit of the ball with Hazel Shepherd in the middle looking to play the ball out to her, Wickens has a couple of opportunities to play a cross into the area both occasions Sprowston defender Sophia Charlalambous defends well.

  GOAL! The early pressure eventually tells and Brandon do open the scoring with 8 minutes played, Forshaw strong in the challenge in the middle of the park slides the ball forwards from a central position for Brame to chase down out paces the Sprowston defence and as she entered the area pulls the trigger sliding the ball past Bell and into the back of the net 1-0.

    The home side continue to press forwards keeping the Sprowston defence busy, playing up top for the visitor's early on Jo Davey has seen little of the ball, when it does get up to her out on the right, she is a long way out when she looks to shoot, low on target, Brandon's Shannon Odebrecht in goal is behind it to gather.

   Has taken Sprowston a little while to sort themselves out with Brandon coming at them are now starting to find some space on the ball and bring it out from the back, Annika Skoog takes the ball over the half way line, looks to play the past inside put Davey in on goal Brandon's defence get to the ball 1st, set up a quick counter attack the ball threaded through to Forshaw head down on the ball she looks to go for goal 20 yards out powers the shot over the bar.

   A little confusion in the Brandon defence gives Sprowston an opportunity to strike on goal allowing it to bounce with Odebrecht coming out she kicks the ball straight at Davey charging in, she brings the ball under control on the edge of the box looks to shoot, gets it around the goalkeeper, but off target wide.

   GOAL! On the half hour Brandon double their lead winning another corner on the right the ball is fired in at a great height for players to attack the header is just missed in the centre of the six yard box the ball travelling through to Natasha Rutter at the far post hooks her foot over the ball lashing the ball back across the goal and into the top corner 2-0.

   More good link up play between Shepherd and Brame, look to play a one two with Brame her back to goal just outside the box spins to turn inside the area as she looks to for the return from Shepherd, Sprowston's Charlalambous is in between the pair makes an important interception inside her area.

   Sprowston win a couple of free kicks inside the Brandon half, have Lois Irving over the ball, she plays a good ball into the area both times for her team mates to attack, it's a Brandon head that gets to the ball 1st and away. Triple change for Sprowston with Laura Jenkins, Louise Aldous and Erica Lakey coming on.

  GOAL! Into the last five minutes of the half Brame wins her team another corner out on the right this time Forshaw plays the ball out to the edge of the area, the ball is played back out to her wide right, she fires the ball in across the six yard box flying in at a dangerous height, misses everyone, Rutter is again racing in on the far post, but a touch isn't needed as the ball strikes the inside of the far post and rolls back over the line 3-0.

   Sprowston are getting more joy on the ball as players look to keep hold of it and bring it out from midfield, Davey is put in on goal on the right again as she finds space the shot from distance again lacks the power to trouble Odebrecht in goal. Sprowston captain Hayley Muir then looks to bring the ball out from the back roll it forwards into the run of substitute Jenkins, is a good ball, Rutter though has kept up with Jenkins puts her foot in to win the ball before she can break beyond and look to attack the goal.

    Davey is shoved off the ball giving Sprowston a late free kick half way inside the Brandon half. Irving on the ball looks to float one in try and drop it under Odebrecht's crossbar, looking like it's going to dip in the goalkeeper throws up a glove to palm it around the post for a corner kick. The corner fired into the near post is flicked on by Charlalambous before Brandon head it clear.

                       Half time Brandon Town Ladies 3-0 Sprowston Ladies Reserves

  With the majority of the attacks Brandon have scored 3 times at regular intervals during the 1st half finding space on the flanks to play crosses have found it difficult to beat Muir and Charlalambous in the middle of the Sprowston defence have defended well as a team for good periods have just being doing too much of it.

  It's Brandon to get the 2nd half under way have replaced their goalkeeper 2nd half with Chelsea Paremain going between the sticks. Sprowston win an early free kick as they break out from the back, the referee bringing it back when no advantage is forth coming. Irving again over the ball puts another good ball into the box, again it's a Brandon head that gets to the ball, Anna Taramanowska with the clearance.

   Shepherd latches onto a loose clearance getting the ball out to Brame peeling off into space on the right, gets the cross into Forshaw inside the D, she shoots pulls the ball wide of the goal. Sprowston are defending better as a team at the start of the 2nd half, are playing deeper though conceding ground, making it harder for Brandon to get in behind and put the crosses in.

 

   Jenkins wide left for Sprowston as she attacks, has Rebecca Kirby in support behind her plays the ball back to her, spins off her marker and makes a run into the area, Kirby attempts to play the pass over the Brandon defence into Jenkins path, just too long gets to Paremain before she can get a foot on the ball.

   Wickens and Brame try inking up again out on the right, play the short pass between one another looking to go beyond the Sprowston back line again though Charlalambous is across to win the ball back, when Brandon do get the ball past Charlalambous and get the cross into the box Muir is there to head clear.

   Brandon though are building up the pressure keeping the ball and coming at Sprowston winning a corner on the right the 1st delivery is poor but goes behind for another corner, this one fired in high inside the busy six yard box, contact is made the ball turned goal wards, Bell is alert and claims the ball before it can go past her and in.

   GOAL! It's a 4th goal for Brandon coming as Sprowston try to get numbers forwards to reduce the deficit, breaking down the right it's Brame who puts the ball into the box running in Shepherd tries a flick the ball goal wards with the back of her heel, Sprowston get it away, not further enough the ball is won back and played into Shepherd again right of the D, 20 yards out she strikes sending the ball with plenty of pace on it arrowing beyond Bell into the net 4-0.

   GOAL! Not long after Brandon add a 5th goal, it's Shepherd again on the ball in the centre of midfield, powering forwards on the ball is looking to play it into Forshaw on her left, gets too much on the pass coming through to Aldous at right back she is unfortunate as her clearance is sliced back across the face of the goal finds Brame free on the opposite side, she lashes her shot back across the goal and in to make it 5-0.

   Having done well at the start of the 2nd half the 2 quick goals have knocked the stuffing out of Sprowston, doesn't help when a Brandon corner from the left inadvertently strikes the referee on the edge of the area allowing the home side to keep the pressure on the Sprowston box, Aldous heads the ball clear as it is sent in towards goal.

   GOAL! Brandon though soon add a 6th goal and it's Brame who nets her hat-trick, the ball is put out into her feet wide on the right, outside the box she looks to send the shot up and over Bell and meeting it sweetly does just that the ball going in at the far post. 6-0.

  Is all Brandon now they are continue to attack, Brame has another go from 25 yards out central this time powers the shot over the cross bar.

  GOAL! A 7th goal comes for Brandon, it's Forshaw who scores her 2nd goal, Shepherd puts the ball into her is 25 yards out in a central position turns and wraps her foot around the ball sending it in low and hard past Bell before she can react 7-0.

   Ragged from Sprowston, a ruthless spell from Brandon to take the match well beyond them. Forshaw brings the ball out of her own half showing a good turn of pace as she travels up the left wing squares the ball into the box looking for Shepherd she attempts to hit the ball on the volley blazes it over the bar.

   A great pass from Irving in the middle for Sprowston, sends Kirby away into space on the right, taking the ball into the area she sends in a good  cross from the by line has Jenkins rushing in to try and get to the ball, Paremain has it safely in her gloves before she does.

   Into injury time Sprowston are awarded a free kick on the right of the Brandon box Irving on the ball plays in great ball to the near post to be attacked, is headed behind for a corner kick, no time to take it though as the referee blows the final whistle and Brandon run out 7-0 winners.

   Move to the top of the table on goal difference now a mere +144, played well dominating for long spells scoring 7 goals and continuing their good form in keeping a clean sheet at the other end, look to be well on course to win promotion to division one with 4 games left to play.

   Sprowston did okay in patches were up against it with Brandon always looking to attack, did defend well despite the score line the 2nd half goals deflating them, needed to keep hold of it higher up the pitch stay in 9th place have 2 games left to play, can't be caught by the teams below.

   My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details today.
  

   

  
  

Cup Final Report - AFC Sudbury Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

  My 3rd and last women's County Cup Final of the season, having watched the finals in both Cambridgeshire and Norfolk over the last 6 days, it was Suffolk's turn to host their Final. Tonight's opponents AFC Sudbury Ladies and Ipswich Town Ladies.

   The Finalists

   AFC Sudbury Ladies are the current holders of the Suffolk Women's County Cup having beaten Brandon Town Ladies 5-0 in last seasons final. Play their football in the Eastern Region Division One North. Entered this years competition in the 2nd round had an away trip to Brantham Athletic Ladies secured a comfortable 1-9 win to progress to the quarter finals were drawn at home to Bungay Town Ladies won 4-0. Faced a potentially tricky semi-final match against fellow Eastern Region Division One North side Bury Town Ladies, played at a neutral venue was a dominant display on the day booking their place in a 2nd successive final with a 4-0 win.

  Ipswich Town Ladies won the competition the previous season beating Lowestoft Town Ladies 5-1. Are the highest placed women's football team in Suffolk in terms of league position playing their football in the FA Women's Premier League South East Division One. This season they didn't play until the quarter final stage, were drawn away to Ipswich Wanderers Ladies won the match 4-0. In the semi-finals they like AFC Sudbury faced a difficult tie away to Lowestoft Town Ladies playing in the league below but on a promotion charge had only suffered one defeat all season and that was away in the FA Women's Cup against FA Women's Super League 2 side Millwall Lionesses. Ipswich Town Ladies scored the only goal of the match to win through to the final.

   The venue for todays Suffolk Women's County Cup Final, Ram Meadow in Bury St Edmunds, home to both Bury Town FC and Bury Town Ladies. Situated in the middle of Bury St Edmunds, Ram Meadow is a decent little stadium, with good facilities, bar and refreshments. Is a good sized pitch seen a lot of football but holding up well odd bare patch. The Suffolk FA has produced a nice program to accompany the final. Another pleasant evening for a cup final bright and sunny, cooling down in temperature as the evening progressed, the two teams walking onto the pitch, all four officials were female tonight which was encouraging to see.

  AFC Sudbury Ladies starting XI - Mollie Noble, Rebecca Thrower, Marie Seabrook, Sophie Pink, Charlotte Churchman, Sophie Jeffery, Natalie Golding (C), Skye Ramsey, Kayleigh Steed, Phoebe Guiver & Enya Moore.
  subs - Emma Squirrell, Natalie Cutin, Holly Harrison, LouLou Boaler- Hysett & Kiera Bates.

  Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI - Laura Bird, Coral Young, Lucy Du Plooy, Aimee Harrison, Lindsey Smith, Danielle Bitten (C), Sam Carson, Amanda Crump, Roxanne Small, Ellie Rossiter & Molly Hall.
  subs - Jazz Cox, Hollie Clement, Lauren Cartwright & Chantelle Keevil.

                                      (roll on, roll off substitutes)

  Ipswich get the Suffolk Women's County Cup Final underway, are kitted out in their blue shirts and socks with white shorts with opponents Sudbury lined up in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. It's Ipswich who start the brighter on the offensive straight from kick off with Amanda Crump bringing the ball forwards and looking to release Ellie Rossiter playing out wide right.

   Rossiter puts a cross into the near post from the right, Sudbury goalkeeper, Mollie Noble is coming for it as an Ipswich attacker rushes in to try and get to the ball it is put behind for a corner kick. Sudbury defend the set piece try and get the ball up the pitch Ipswich though soon regain possession and string a few passes together around the Sudbury box before the ball is rolled back to Crump 25 yards out to the right of the box, takes on the shot fires her effort wide across goal.

Ipswich Town Ladies, Amanda Crump

   Sudbury are finding it difficult to get the ball into Enya Moore and Kayleigh Steed in attack, there is little goal mouth action to talk about in the 1st 15 minutes, Ipswich goalkeeper Laura Bird has been a spectator so far. Rossiter staying up on the right is keeping her position out wide well, looking to be available for the long pass, whilst on the left Roxanne Small and Lucy Du Plooy playing full back behind her are linking up well when taking the ball forwards, Sudbury on the whole are defending the attempted crosses well.
  
Out of nothing Sudbury get a chance to attack the Ipswich goal, the pass is threaded through from the middle, Sophie Jeffery with the threaded pass to put her beyond the Ipswich central defenders, holding off Aimee Harrison, Moore looks to shoot as she enters the box, swing her shot past Bird, having closed down the angle Bird is able to throw her arm out to stop the shot flying past her.

   In attack for Ipswich, Rossiter is played in on the right, bursting into the box has keeper Noble coming to close her down manages to get the ball past her inside the box is wide of the goal from the right Rossiter sends the ball across the six yard box has Small racing in to meet it, her shot is blocked and Sudbury recover get the ball away.

   The ball played into her feet Ipswich's Molly Hall has Small making a good run beyond her to her right looks to play the ball into her to take inside the box for a shooting chance, Small is denied by a good challenge from Sudbury's Marie Seabrook inside the area. Sudbury are seeing more off the ball as the 1st half draws to a close attempting to get more bodies forward, just can't find the gaps in a well organised Ipswich back line.

Molly Hall on the attack for Ipswich Town Ladies

   Winning the ball high up the pitch on the left Ipswich captain Danielle Bitten, tries her luck from distance her low shot goes behind, must have take a nick off a Sudbury player as a corner is given. Played in from the left at a good height with plenty of pace, it's Hall making the run looking to connect her head to the ball, it was vital a Sudbury head made contact with the ball 1st.

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half Ipswich finally get the break through open the scoring. The move starting with Bitten as she brings the ball forwards from the centre again has fellow central midfielder Sam Carson ahead of her on he right outside the area plays the pass into her, Carson gets the ball stuck under her feet, before she flicks it on into the area with Crump making the run into the area on the right of the six yard box, she fires the ball across the face of the Sudbury goal. Small is racing in at the far post to turn the ball into the back of the net to give Ipswich the lead 0-1.

   Ipswich's Crump collects the ball in the middle in front of the D as Du Plooy brings the ball up the left side of the pitch, turning has time and space to shoot, aims for the top corner, Noble though has that side of her goal covered, isn't troubled by Crump's shot as it flies over. Into injury time and Carson steals in to chest a goal kick down and take the ball forwards right of the box, looks to shoot, the ball coming in low, bouncing is straight at Noble who gathers.
 
                              Half time - AFC Sudbury Ladies 0-1 Ipswich Town Ladies

   A good 1st half from Ipswich Town Ladies have been the most proactive in attack using both flanks well spreading the play, have had to be patient though as they have come up against a well drilled and disciplined Sudbury team who for the majority have defended well, that though has cost them ground going forwards where their attackers have seen little of the ball, just one goal in it though as Sudbury get the 2nd half under way.

   Ipswich made a change at half time with Molly Hall, coming off and Jazz Cox coming on in attack. Sudbury are getting a little more penetration into the Ipswich half down the flanks at the start of the half captain Natalie Golding trying to find that final pass to open up the Ipswich defence.

   Ipswich launch a counter attack as they win the ball back in front of their box put it forwards quickly, Rossiter is sent clear to take the ball into space on the right, she fires a great cross into the area flashing across the six yard box, Small has covered the ground is sliding in looking to divert it home, looks certain to double Ipswich's lead, the contact though isn't clean the ball bobbling up hit's Noble as she stays on her feet, the ball is loose for a moment, Small on the ground can't get to it, Du Plooy has covered the ground to get into the area behind her the ball pops up she puts her boot through it blazes the shot high and over.

   Sophie Jeffery who I watched tear Bury Town Ladies to pieces on the left for Sudbury in the semi final of the competition, isn't getting the time and space to get on the ball and take on the Ipswich defence who are prepared to drop deep to limit the space in behind. When Jeffery can dig out a cross the ball is intercepted by Ipswich central defenders Lindsey Smith and Aimee Harrison.

   Small is a player full of pace, is holding onto the shoulder of the last Sudbury defender ready to pounce if the ball is put over the top, gives chase to one such ball, Noble has to come racing out of her area to kick the ball away before Small can bare down on her goal. Rossiter slips through into space on the right again cuts the ball back to Coral Young inside the area to the right of the goal, unable to get the ball down for a shot, she instead lays it back Carson offering herself inside the D, she looks to shoot, Sudbury put the block in.

Ipswich Town Ladies Sam Carson

   Moore and Steed look to link up in attack for Sudbury, twice Steed holding the ball up looks to turn and send the pass through with Moore making the run for her, doesn't find it's way though. Steed is fouled as she tries to play the pass to Moore again, Golding is over the free kick, looks to send it in towards the far post for runners to attack, plays it a little too long allowing Bird to come and collect.

   GOAL! Ipswich double there lead, Jazz Cox getting onto the ball taking it into the left channel, has Sudbury's Rebecca Thrower in front of her the defend initially does well to defend with Cox travelling into the area, the defender is unfortunate as her attempted clearance smashes into Cox, who is sharp stealing past Thrower to get onto the loose ball, Noble has come across to cover the near post Cox looks to lob the ball up over her head, get's it past the keeper the ball is heading over the line, Crump coming in gets a header on the ball, the goal is awarded to Cox 0-2.

    Sudbury make a double change with Emma Squirrell and Holly Harrison coming on for Kayleigh Steed and Skye Ramsey. Straight away Squirrell is looking to get hold of the ball turn her marker and travel forwards. Shots on goal are at a premium for Sudbury though as they chase the game, Squirrell sends a shot in low from the left of the area, not enough pace though Bird is in place to gather the ball.

   Ipswich bring off Small, with Chantelle Keevil coming onto the pitch. Sudbury take off Seabrook and bring Steed back into the action with 30 minutes of the 2nd half played. Sudbury are causing a few more problems since Squirrell has come on, Ipswich are maintaining a good defensive shape with Bitten and Carson covering the ground well in front of the back four, Du Plooy leaves the pitch with Hollie Clement coming on the next change sees Carson the player giving way and Lauren Cartwright comes onto the pitch making her 1st appearance for over a year having been out having had an operation on a serious knee injury.

   On the left Sudbury's, Jeffery tries to drill the ball in towards goal from 30 yards out, goes wide at the near post. Time is running out to get the goal that would set up a tense finish. Harrison is the next player to have a pop at goal from 30 yards out central turning her marker releases the shot bounces through to the keeper. Hall comes back on for Rossiter for Ipswich. Sudbury bring off Jeffery with LouLou Boale-Hysett the player coming on.

   Cox peels into space on the right of the Sudbury area is bearing down on goal aims for the near post dropping low Noble has it covered makes the save the ball going out for a corner, the ball is played into a crowded near post area, Sudbury head it away launch a counter getting the ball up to Squirrell she drives into the box, is hurt as an Ipswich defender slides into clear the ball for a throw, can't carry on is carried off with Natalie Curtin coming on.

     The final whistle blows and Ipswich are the team celebrating as they win the match 2-0 and are this years Suffolk Women's County Cup winners.

    A game of few chances, with both sides defences winning out for long spells, Ipswich created far more going forwards, had to be patient for the 1st goal, never looked like conceding the other end. Sudbury worked hard defending well getting people behind the ball early on it looked like it was going to be a low scoring game, never really got going as an attacking force.

   Congratulations to Ipswich Town Ladies on winning the cup.

    3 women's County Cup Finals watched in six days, 4 finals in total in a week has been enjoyable if busy.

   

  

  

Cup Final Report - Thorpe United Ladies v Acle United Ladies

  On to Norfolk for the 2nd of 3 Women's County Cup Final's I shall be watching in the space of 6 days. This years final in Norfolk to be contested by Thorpe United Ladies and Acle United Ladies, who have between them been the runners-up in the previous 3 finals.

   In the 4 years that the Norfolk Women's County Cup has been contested up to date the competition has been dominated by Norwich City Ladies, winning the cup in 4 successive finals. Have been the top women's football club in Norfolk for many years, however in the 2014/15 season their 1st team didn't enter the cup giving a chance for a new name to be inscribed on the trophy.

  The Finalists

  Thorpe United Ladies compete in the Norfolk Women's Division One, have reached the final of the Norfolk Women's County Cup on 2 occasions in 2011/12 & 2013/14 both times beaten by Norwich City Ladies 5-0 & 5-1. This season the club entered the competition in the 2nd round an away trip to North Walsham Angels Ladies won the match 2-5. In the quarter finals were at home to Fakenham Town Ladies winning 4-3 to set up a semi final at home once again to Stalham Town Ladies won the match by a single goal to book their place in the final and would be hoping they would be getting a winners medal this time around.

  That of course is what their opponents Acle United Ladies would be hoping for too. Acle United Ladies are the only other women's football team in Norfolk besides Norwich City Ladies to play their football outside of the county divisions. Play in the Eastern Region Premier Division, newly promoted to the league this season from Division One North. Has been a struggle have been at the bottom of the table for much of the season but since 2015 have brought a new coach in and results have improved are unbeaten in 2015.

  Like Thorpe United Ladies they entered the County Cup in the 2nd round securing a 3-1 victory away to Bohemians Ladies. In the quarter finals faced a tough trip to division two promotion chasers Lynn Ladies, won the match 2-1. A home game against Wymondham Town Ladies in the semi finals 1 goal was enough to win the match and book a place in the final. Like Thorpe United Ladies were runners-up to Norwich City Ladies in the 2012/13 season losing 6-1.

    Todays venue for the final The Football Development Centre (FDC) a superb sporting facility on the outskirts of Norwich. The Norfolk FA always puts on a good finals day making it as a enriching experience for the players taking part as they can. The pitch will see quite a few finals played upon it over the coming weeks, but it looked in great condition, with plenty of grass cover if a little hard. Was a cool breeze blowing and an overcast sky above but little threat of rain spoiling the day as the 2 teams took to the pitch.
  
 Thorpe United Ladies starting XI - Kirstie Andrews, Nicole Read, Shannon Miles, Alice Ford, Alice Ladbroke, Kim Broom (C), Hayley Kindred, Kirstie Kindred, Charlotte Groves, Rebekah Lake & Judith Bloomfield.
 subs - Chelsea Clark, Natasha Evans, Charlotte Chandler.

  Acle United Ladies starting XI - Chloe Nixon, Gemma Bovington, Georgina Beckwith, Joanne Hooper, Leah McGuire, Helen Emmerson (C), Rose Glendinnings, Natasha Greenfield, Jenna Thurtle, Francesca Lambert & Sharnie Boast.
  subs - Aishatu Shaibu, Imogen Williams & Elizabeth Danson.

                           (roll on, roll off substitutes).

   Acle in black and white vertical striped shirts with gold numbering, black shorts and socks kick off the final against Thorpe lined up in pink shirts with black shoulders, black shorts and pink socks. Thorpe are on the attack early on taking the ball down the left of the pitch win a corner, the ball is fired into Judith Bloomfield at the near post she turns her shot goal wards, it is cleared away after being blocked at close range.

  Thorpe continue their bright start, in the midfield Charlotte Groves is fouled as she tries to drive on with the ball at her feet half way inside the Acle half it's Alice Ladbroke to float the ball into the box for players to attack puts too much on the ball Acle goalkeeper Chloe Nixon takes the ball into her chest.

Acle's Joanne Hooper with Thorpe's Charlotte Groves

   Acle striker Jenna Thurtle gives chase to a long ball played out into space on the right bringing the ball inside looks to take it inside the box, is stopped by Ladbroke who makes a good tackle. Thorpe counter attack, playing it quickly through the centre Groves gives Rebekah Lake a chance to attack, she cuts the ball back across for Kirstie Kindred 35 yards out, she has a strike at goal drags her shot wide.

   Both sides are looking up for the final is a lively start with players covering the ground to win the ball and make themselves available for a pass, Acle's forward balls aren't quite finding the mark early on. Thorpe captain Kim Broom in the middle with Groves threads a ball through the Acle defence putting Lake through on goal as she races into the area, with just the keeper to beat she fires her shot straight at Nixon.

   15 minutes are on the clock, Acle are now starting to get themselves on the ball more start to get some possession in the Thorpe half. Are getting some joy on the wings with Natasha Greenfield and Francesca Lambert.

 

Rebekah Lake

  GOAL! It's Thorpe that open the scoring, the ball is played up into Lake just inside the box, she lays it back to Kirstie Kindred racing in to support, Lake spinning off her marker as Kindred pulls the trigger 20 yards out, coming in fast Nixon makes an instinctive save parrying the ball away knocking it down to her right, Lake is racing in looking for any follow up gets to the ball right of the goal shots, Nixon throws herself at the ball doesn't get enough of her body behind it as it squirms under her and rolls over the line 1-0.

   









   GOAL! It doesn't take Acle long to hit back and it is a strike of quality from Sharnie Boast to bring the scores back on level terms. The ball played into her from the left she is 30 yards out from goal to the right of the D, has the opportunity to shoot meets the shot perfectly sending an arrowing ball in towards the far post, in the Thorpe goal Kirstie Andrews throws herself across to try and stop it gets her gloves to it but not enough to turn it pass the post, the ball nestles into the back of the net 1-1.

   With roll on roll off substitutes being used both teams are making full use of their benches with 1st Chelsea Clark then Charlotte Chandler on for Thorpe. Acle bring on Imogen Williams and Elizabeth Danson. Lake links up well with Chandler on the left the pair winning a corner, the set piece is fired into the near side area with Groves making a run to met it, tries to flick the ball in towards goal it is blocked the clearance retrieved by corner taker Ladbroke she tries to curl her shot back in drifts wide of the post.

   Groves is always likely to set something up whenever she gets hold of the ball in the midfield and pushes on with it, she sets up a 2 v 1 situation with Lake and Broom in front of her both break with one Acle defender caught between them, play a one two with Broom the one on the end of the shot fires it straight at Nixon in goal she saves.

Thorpe's Charlotte Groves

  Acle win a free kick on the left just outside the corner of the area, it's Boast to play the ball into a packed goal area, the ball comes in at a fast pace and good height, Andrews looks to come through the crowd doesn't get to the ball as it flies into the back of the net, unsure if anyone got a touch or it went straight in from Boast's kick either way she peels away to celebrate, everyone thinks it's a goal however it isn't is disallowed obstructing the keeper no goal play continues.

   GOAL! No sooner has that goal been disallowed then Thorpe go down the other end and retake the lead with the half almost up. Lake starts the attack on the ball on the left is driving down the line, before cutting back inside and fires the ball across before the pass is put through to release Groves in on goal, closing down the keeper she gets her shot away the ball squeezes past Nixon and into the goal 2-1.

 GOAL! Once again however Thorpe's lead doesn't last long, the 1st half has seen a couple of minutes played when Acle get awarded a free kick around 30 yards out in a central position, it's Boast over the ball again and another fiercely struck ball struck in to the top corner of Andrews goal as the keeper throws herself across in vain 2-2.

                          












                      Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 2-2 Acle United Ladies

  Has been an exciting and fast paced 1st half in the final from both sides, energised and looking to take the game to one another, Thorpe have created the better chances will maybe feel a little unlucky not to have taken a lead into the break, but all to play for 2nd half as Thorpe get the 2nd 45 underway.

  It's the team in pink on the attack early on Groves playing the ball into the box has Hayley Kindred trying to get on the end of the cross can't quite get her foot over the shot as Nixon comes and is able to gather.

   Up front for Acle Thurtle has been working hard all game to try and get on the ball hold it up allowing her team mates to get up in support, has Imogen Williams making the run as she plays the ball into the box, Williams can't get to it before Alice Ford comes to make tackle and clear the ball. Ford is again called into action to make the saving tackle inside the box as Thurtle coming in from the right tries to isolate her and take the ball past her for a shooting opportunity, Ford denies her.

    Is a quieter opening to the 2nd half both sides not wanting to be quite so gung ho, Lake has been sitting a little deeper, bursts into space on the right though when the ball is played into open ground, getting hold of the ball on the run looks to strike it early catch Nixon unawares , gets too much behind the shot sending it high and over.

   In the centre of the Acle midfield Joanne Hooper and Rose Glendinnings had started to get on the ball more towards the end of the 1st half are getting more of it 2nd half. Glendinnings places a shot over the bar from 25 yards out after good build up play from Boast and Thurtle in front of her. Lambert always a feisty player, likes to take players on makes a good run on the left almost sets up Thurtle inside the box, Ford is across again to win the ball.

Acle's Francesca Lambert

   Acle bring on their manager Aishatu Shaibu she goes up into attack as Acle start to build up the attacks pushing Thorpe back more making it harder for them to get the numbers out to launch a counter attack.

   A free kick a good way out for Acle sees Thurtle over the ball to the left of the goal the ball is put into the box at an awkward height for keeper Andrews to deal with head height she knocks it down, has Shaibu closing her down managed to prod it away from the attacker as the two collide in front of goal leaving Shaibu needing treatment.

   Both sides are ringing the changes as players start to struggle, several go down with cramp Thorpe in particular as the game draws on a more cautious approach both teams. Hooper latching onto the ball in the middle send a high ball forwards sees Shaibu playing on the shoulder of the last defender trying to get on the end off it, Andrews starts to come then hesitates s Shaibu reaches the edge of the area presented with the chance to lob the keeper she gives it a try put it over the bar.

   Acle keep coming at the Thorpe defence, they are defending resolutely full backs Nicole Read and Shannon Miles offering good support to Ladbroke and Ford in the centre, block a shot from Hooper then manage to break the ball being played up to Lake with pace she is running towards goal tries to hit the ball in the stride puts it way over.

Thorpe's Rebekah Lake is put through on goal

   Glendinnings takes the ball forwards, good dribbling into space 25 yards out rolls in Boast whose shot is fired straight at Andrews. Acle are piling on the pressure late into the half but Thorpe hold out and the 90 minute are up, the game will see 30 minutes extra time.

Acle's Rose Glendinnings on the attack

                                                        Extra Time

   Acle kick of the 1st 15 minutes of extra time is a quiet opening to the added time Thorpe's Ladbroke plays a long free kick straight into Nixon from 40 yards out, before Lake latches onto a rare loose ball from the Acle back line racing into the box right of the six yard area goes for the shot Nixon saves pushing the ball across the face of her goal, there isn't anyone from Thorpe up to attack it as Acle clear.

   Groves fires in a shot from outside the box that poleaxes Acle captain Helen Emmerson leaves her winded and comes off to recover. Tired balls all round as bodies tire. Hayley Kindred puts in a fantastic cross from the right for Lake unmarked in the centre of the six yard box to attack  directs her header away from Nixon to the far post, it cannons off the post and rolls along the line back into Nixon's gloves. The 1st 15 minutes are up.

   Thorpe kick off the 2nd period. Ford runs onto the ball has Lake in front of her, shifts the ball outside the D to make room for the shot takes a deflection putting it wide for a corner kick. Play is spread Thorpe with a free kick played in from the left, Groves attacks it heading it one into the six yard area, Hayley Kindred is looking to meet it can't get there before Nixon saves.

   Is as close as anyone can come to scoring what would be the winning goal in extra time as the referee blows the whistle and the final goes to a penalty shoot out.

                                                      Penalties

   I hate penalty shootouts but a cup/knockout game has to be decided somehow and we go to penalties, whatever the outcome a fantastic effort from both teams.

     Acle take the 1st penalty it's Joanne Hooper to take, Andrews doesn't move as she puts it low to her right 1-0.

    Thorpe captain Kim Broom takes their 1st penalty hits it straight at Nixon in the centre of goal she saves 1-0.

   Sharnie Boast steps up next for Acle's 2nd penalty she drills her low shot to the left of Andrews 2-0.

   Penalty number 2 for Thorpe, Nicole Read to take aims for the left of Nixon she guesses it dives and makes the save 2-0.

  Elizabeth Danson with the 3rd penalty for Acle, too eager scores but didn't wait for the referees whistle, cool on the 2nd attempt although Andrews dives the ball has enough on it to squeeze past and into the net 3-0.

  Thorpe's Hayley Kindred has to score her penalty to keep her sides hopes alive slots it to the right of Nixon 3-1.

  It's Imogen Williams to take the 4th Acle penalty score it and they win the cup, sends the ball high into the back of the net to cue the celebrations as her team mates race from the half way line 4-1.

   Acle United Ladies win the Norfolk Women's County Cup a thoroughly entertaining final particularly in the 1st half, the roll on roll off subs and disrupted the 2nd half as both teams tired, for the large part and even game fought with a good spirit. Thorpe United Ladies can be proud of their performance a penalty shootout is always a tough thing to lose out on.

My congratulations to Acle United Ladies.

                                

  
  

Cup Final Report - Cambridge WFC v Gt Shelford Ladies

  Off down the A10 for the 2nd successive evening, to watch my 2nd Cup Final of the week, this one the 1st of a trilogy of Women's County Cup Finals all in the space of 6 days in the East of England. Another final in Cambridgeshire featuring Cambridge WFC once again, this time though it's their 1st team in action in the Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup  their opponents Great Shelford Ladies.

   The competition is once again sponsored by S-Tech Insurance, the venue this time though a little bit further along the A10 to the Glass World Stadium, home of Histon FC. Situated north of Cambridge itself in Impington just off the A14. Is a nice stadium, well laid out good facilities, with refreshments and a bar available. Seated stands on both sides of the ground.

   The Finalists

   Tonight's opponents are not strangers to one another have been here before have contested the last 2 County Cup Finals with Cambridge WFC being the winners on both occasions, Great Shelford Ladies will be hoping it's 3rd time lucky.

   Cambridge WFC though will be wanting to keep hold of the cup they have won for the past 2 seasons. Given a bye for the 1st Rd, entered the competition in round 2, were awarded a home win over Sawtry Ladies and finally started the defence of the cup in the quarter finals beating Huntingdon Town Ladies 6-0 at home. In the semi-finals they were drawn at home to the new winners of the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership, Riverside Rovers Ladies. Cambridge WFC ply their trade 3 leagues higher in the FAWPL South East Division One and proved to strong on the day running out 7-0 winners to book their final spot.

   Great Shelford Ladies like Cambridge WFC were given a bye in the 1st round. Took on Newmarket Town Ladies at home in the 2nd round, scored double figures winning 10-0. Were awarded an away win in the quarter finals against Isleham United Ladies. Were away in the semi finals a tricky tie against Bar Hill Women doing well in the Eastern Region Division One North just a league below Great Shelford Ladies, the Premier Division side edged it though winning 2-1 meaning the 2 powerhouses of women's football in Cambridgeshire would be contesting the County Cup once again.

  A cooler evening than last evening, was bright and clear. The pitch was a good size looked like it has seen a lot of football, few bare patches but otherwise in good condition as the teams took to the field.

  Cambridge WFC starting XI - Verity Crook, Liv Abbott, Becca Fay, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Hannah Goodchild (C), Laura Baker, Laura Bright, Emma Jenkins, Laura Mills, Nuala Wayne & Sophie Thompson.
  subs - Hannah Bodily, Gemma Clark, Becky Russell, Faith Hewitt & Robyn Phillips.

  Great Shelford Ladies starting XI - Laura Gilby (C), Francesca Walder, Georgina Westrope, Cindy Pouder, Claire Creek, Sophie Lanham, Becky Charter, Kate Saunders, Alison Wright, Becky Taylor & Abigail Davies.
  subs - Alana Sugden, Georgia Day, Lauren Martin, Amanda Binge & Harriet Blundell.

                              (roll on, roll off substitutes)

  It's Great Shelford to get the final underway wearing claret and blue shirts, claret shorts and socks, with Cambridge lined up opposite in sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts. Is a bright start from both sides looking to get the ball into forward areas, takes a few moments for play to settle down. Great Shelford get the ball into the Cambridge box Becky Taylor goes for the shot, it is blocked by Cambridge defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt at close range the rebound spins back out to Kate Saunders 20 yards from goal, the Great Shelford midfielder drills her shot in, off target, wide of goal.

   Cambridge are getting some joy in the wide area's Liv Abbott is able to bring the ball out from right back, linking up well with Emma Jenkins playing in front of her, she wins the 1st corner of the match, is a good delivery into the centre of the area, Great Shelford defender Cindy Pouder with the header to clear the ball away for a throw.

Alison Wright

   GOAL! Great Shelford take an early lead capitalising on an error from Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook, the ball is played back to her from the right inside her box taking a touch she looks to spread the play kicks the ball straight into Great Shelford's, Alison Wright racing to get into the box, presented with the ball she takes it around Crook and sends it home into the back of the net 0-1.


  Although Cambridge are getting the ball forwards winning corners, Great Shelford are playing a high tempo pressing game early on looking to get the ball back from Cambridge high up the pitch, Sophie Lanham pushing on from the centre of midfield takes the ball of Cambridge captain Hannah Goodchild as she looks to bring it out of defence. Lanham plays the ball into Wright inside the box, she squares the ball across the area looking for Saunders who screws her shot wide of goal.


 
  GOAL! A lively opening barely 10 minutes on the clock and Cambridge pull the scores level. An attacking move starting down the left side of the pitch, Cambridge move the ball quickly, Laura Mills on the ball has Jenkins making a good run coming central, plays the pass putting the ball clear of the Great Shelford defence, Jenkins is after it inside the area Laura Gilby the Great Shelford goalkeeper and captain comes to close her down, Jenkins slips the ball over her and into the net 1-1.

Emma Jenkins

   Playing up front for Cambridge, Sophie Thompson gives chase to a long ball rolling into space on the right flank, getting to it she sends the cross in has Nuala Wayne covering the ground to meet it at the far post, is a vital interception by Pouder to prevent the goal scoring opportunity.

   On the right wing Great Shelford's Becky Charter is looking to take on the Cambridge defence whenever she has the ball at her feet, Lanham gets the ball out to her, Charter looks to run into the box, Crook comes to meet her, stays big as she tries to take the ball around her gets something on it enough to slow Charter up, she is after the ball though as it bounces off Crook, looks to fire her shot in as Cambridge's defenders race back to cover the goal, the shot is flashed across the six yard box and wide.

   Is a good battle developing between Goodchild and Wright, the Great Shelford attacker, strong shoves Goodchild off the ball wide left, plays a great forward pass looking for Becky Taylor who has made a great diagonal run to get into the box. Becca Fay does well though to read the danger and come round on the cover to win the ball.

Cambridge WFC captain Hannah Goodchild with the defensive header

   GOAL! Cambridge win another corner on the right are thinking about taking a short one, their manager Steve Edwards makes it clear that they can forget about that, so they don't,a good call then as the corner is instead played into the congested six yard box, Abbott gets her head to it as Gilby comes for the ball hits her is loose there is a scramble for the ball, it pops up nicely for Laura Bright who gets her boot to the ball and strikes home to give Cambridge the lead 2-1.

   The game continues to be played at a fast pace travelling up and down the flanks both sides looking for goal scoring opportunities. Good running from Charter on the right again, has players racing into the box as she sends the cross in puts the ball behind everyone however, wide left team mate Abigail Davies retrieves the ball looks to play it onto the penalty spot for Wright to attack, the flag is up for offside bringing the move to a halt.

   More good build up play from Great Shelford, Lanham and Saunders travelling forwards have Davies making the run looking to get into the area, is put though on the penalty spot herself her shot though is blocked at close range, the ball spinning loose to Charter whose shot is a little wild as it rises over the bar.

                     Half time Cambridge WFC 2-1 Great Shelford Ladies

  An entertaining 1st half in the Cup Final with Great Shelford starting very getting the early break through with Wright scoring off a defensive error. Cambridge hit back early though and wen on to take the lead. Both sides are creating chances, getting player on the ball looking to drive forwards.

    The floodlights are in full effect with darkness descending as Cambridge kick off the 2nd half. Great Shelford have made a change with Davies off and Amanda Binge on, she joins Wright in attack with Taylor dropping deeper on the left. Is a tentative opening to the half from both sides attacking moves breaking down.

    Chance out of nothing for Cambridge as Abbott fires the ball low and hard into the box, is met by a Great Shelford defender, the clearance is poor though the ball coming to Wayne wide left, she looks to put the ball back into the area, strikes the back of the defender closing her down as she hits it causing it to loop up with Thompson lurking behind her Pouder does well to deftly head the ball to Gilby with little room for error.

    Laura Baker is looking to be more proactive and travel with the ball from midfield 2nd half, tries to thread it between the Great Shelford centre backs for Thompson and Mills to attack, the ball isn't allowed to sneak through.

Laura Baker and Kate Saunders battling for the ball

   In attack for Great Shelford, Wright continues to be strong on the ball and cause problems gets her head to the ball as it is played forwards to the edge of the area, the header takes her into the box, gets a 2nd header to take her clear of the defence, has Crook coming to face her down, tries to direct a 3rd header past her, Crook gets the touch knocking the ball down and claiming at the 2nd attempt.

    Up top for Cambridge Thompson and Mills are showing good movement tracking into space and exchanging sides, link up well as the ball is fed to Mills on the right she plays it into the box for Thompson to attack, Gilby comes and diving saves well at her feet.

   Cambridge make a change with Goodchild leaving the field for Becky Russell. An injury for Great Shelford see's the roll on roll off subs being used by both sides Davies returning to the field for Great Shelford along with Georgia Day, Pouder and Saunders the players off. The substitutes disrupt the flow of the game, slow it down.

   Taylor now on the left for Great Shelford drives with the ball at her feet into the left channel, whips a fierce cross in which is cut out by Burt put behind for a corner. The set piece delivered from the left is high aimed towards the far post, it's Francesca Walder who is there to meet the ball with her head, sends it towards goal, Crook though has tracked across her goal and has the post covered.

   Baker comes off for Cambridge with Faith Hewitt on, Pouder returns for Great Shelford, Walder giving way. Cambridge have a free kick half way inside the Great Shelford half it's Abbott over the ball, decides to have a go for goal, gets it on target, Gilby though has time to shuffle across and save.

   Mills is put through by a good lay off from Thompson the pass setting her free to run into the area, Gilby comes rushing towards Mills sliding in the make the save, Mills can't quite get the ball around her before the Great Shelford defence manage to recover and clear. Jenkins leaves the pitch for Cambridge with Robyn Phillips coming on.

   Becky Russell hasn't seen much of the ball on the right since coming on, getting hold of it and taking it down into the right hand corner, wins a corner. The ball is played into Bright on the edge of the area, she looks to shoot gets no power on the ball as it travels into the crowded area, Great Shelford bring it away.

   Hannah Bodily and Gemma Clark come on for Cambridge with Fay and Wayne off. Great Shelford bring on Lauren Martin. Not long after Mills pulls up with an injury and ha to come off, it's Goodchild to come back on. A Cambridge shot is fired in from distance Gilby drops low knocks the ball forwards, Hewitt is racing forward to try and latch onto the ball, Gilby though recovers quickly to claim it before she can get there

   Great Shelford give Alana Sugden and Harriet Blundell some minutes on the pitch late on as the game enters the closing minutes. Thompson is after a long ball punted up the pitch into the area gets to the ball has defenders around her, can't get the ball down to get a shot away.

  GOAL! Thompson does get on the score sheet moments later as the ball isn't properly cleared by Great Shelford. Thompson has peeled off into space, left of the area getting the ball back looks to run at the Great Shelford centre backs before shooting and sending the ball past Gilby and into the back of the net to make it 3-1.

    Moments left to play Cambridge have one more attack have sealed the win as the referee blows the final whistle and they win the Cup for the 3rd successive year to cue the celebrations.

   A good Cup Final, entertaining especially in the 1st half Great Shelford were prepared to take the game to Cambridge made for a open game that was played at a high tempo, the substitutes slowing things down towards the end.

  Congratulations to Cambridge WFC on winning the Cup.