Match Report - Cambridge WFC Reserves v Fulbourn Bluebirds

  Not many games left in the 2014/15 season now but still time for one more trip into Cambridgeshire to catch another game in the Women's Premiership between Cambridge WFC Reserves and Fulbourn Bluebirds.

   A clash between 5th and 6th in the league saw both sides in midweek action last week against different opposition. This is Fulbourn Bluebirds final game of the season this evening the 2nd of a double header with Cambridge WFC Reserves to end their campaign. The previous meeting between the 2 sides this past Sunday with Cambridge WFC Reserves winning 3-0 and moving clear of Fulbourn Bluebirds.

  Cambridge WFC Reserves close the gap to 4th placed Huntingdon Town Ladies to 5 points earn another 3 points tonight and they move to within 2 points and they travel to Huntingdon Town Ladies on the final Sunday of the season.

  This is the 1st time I've travelled to watch Cambridge WFC Reserves at their home ground this season was a short hop down the A14 to Greater Cambourne, the pitch on Back Lane on a recreation ground offering a range of sporting facilities. Has been pleasant and warm day and this weather continues into the evening.

  Cambridge WFC Reserves starting XI - Tafadzwa Mhunduru, Becca Fay, Emma Roberts (C), Robyn Phillips, Nicola Geoghan, Ellie Cullum, Kayleigh Whitehead, Sarah Mosley, Clara Greed, Gemma Clark & Becky Russell.
  subs - Ellen Green, Liz Pamplin & Maria Davies.

 Fulbourn Bluebirds starting XI - Emma D'Costa, Lucy Clarkson, Eleanor Tod, Sharron Pinner, Rachel Garrett, Sarah-Louise Bodger, Abigail Molloy, Kirsty Geal, Ebony-Jane Rule, Sam Isaacson (C), Krissie Taylor.
  subs - Michela Garner, Kathryn Morley, Olivia Clark & Rosie Boyns.

                                        (roll on roll off substitutes)

   Cambridge in their kit of sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts get the 1st half underway against Fulbourn lined up in claret and sky blue shirts claret shorts and socks. Is a tentative opening with both sides probing with the ball into the others half. Cambridge eventually try a couple of longer passes looking to send their attackers beyond the Fulbourn defence but on both occasions goalkeeper Emma D'Costa is in place to comfortably claim the ball.

   Bringing the ball up the left side into the Fulbourn half Cambridge's Kayleigh Whitehead plays a great cross field pass into Becky Russell on the edge of the area, has too many defenders around her to turn and get her shot away before rolling the ball back to Sarah Mosley her shot is blocked at point blank range, shouts for hand ball but little time to get them out of the way the referee waves play on.

   D'Costa is across her goal to the left out to close down and grab the ball before Cambridge's Clara Greed can steal in on it from the wing as the diagonal ball is put into her path.

   A good dribbling run from Fulbourn's Kirsty Geal on the right can travel at pace with the ball at her feet, has Ebony-Jade Rule in attack coming across to support her, giving her the ball Rule sends in a low cross looking for Krissie Taylor making up the ground on the left Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhunduru is down to gather the ball however has a defender in front of her who hooks it away from danger.

Fulbourn Bluebirds Kirsty Geal

  Cambridge are squeezing the ball high up the pitch early on and as a result are seeing more of the ball inside the Fulbourn half have runners left and right in Greed and Becky Russell. A long pass from inside the Cambridge half sends Greed through into space and the area on the left takes on the shot hitting it low and hard towards the near post, D'Costa has it covered dropping low to make the save the ball put behind for a corner.

   GOAL! Cambridge's early possession eventually tells as they open the scoring the move starting from a free kick won on the right the ball is played into the edge of the area not clearing the 1st defender the ball is put back out into the middle coming to Whitehead free in space 30 yards out as everyone steps looks to step up she fires a shot back in, D'Costa starts to come as the ball bounces before her misjudges it and is unfortunate as the pace on the shot takes it up and over her dropping into the net beyond 1-0.

   Halfway through the half Fulbourn get on the attack straight from the restart a shot is swung in towards Cambridge's goal from a long way out sees Mhunduru flinging herself across her goal and making the save. From a throw deep in the left Fulbourn's Rule and Sharon Pinner combine exchanging headers to the right of the area before Pinner shoots her effort off target.

   More than once in the game Fulbourn's Abigail Molloy has come to the rescue making the vital interception getting to a Cambridge cross field pass intended to send greed away into space on the left. Greed is 1st to the ball this time though is racing clear towards the area looking to come inside fires a shot in looking to smash it over D'Costa hits the bar and goes over.

Fulbourn Bluebirds Abigail Molloy

   Fulbourn attacks are limited Rule is doing what she can to hold the ball up with Geal and Taylor trying to provide support right and left has Sarah-Louise Bodger central. Getting onto the ball on the right Rule plays the pass into Bodger left of the D meeting it with her head she turns it goalwards, Mhunduru is across to make the save and sets up a counter attack which sends Mosley in beyond the Fulbourn defence she strikes the ball early gets plenty of pace on the ball but puts it straight at D'Costa who holds on to it making the save.

   Triple change for Cambridge with Greed, Whitehead and captain Emma Roberts leaving the pitch with Liz Pamplin, Maria Davies and Ellen Green coming on. Cambridge hit the cross bar again through Gemma Clark who has moved out to the left the ball finds her as she peels off her marker coming into the box she shoots from a tight angle gets the ball over D'Costa but again the ball clips the bar drops back into play before Fulbourn get it away.

   GOAL! Into the final minutes of the 1st half and Cambridge double their lead with Clark scoring the goal. Given the ball on the left flank she takes on her marker skipping past her with the ball pushes on into the area looks to hit her shot across the keeper and places it into the net at the far post 2-0.

    Cambridge have time for another attack as we go into 1st half injury time the ball played from left to right this time sends Russell clear behind the Fulbourn back line D'Costa is racing out to the edge of her area to close her down, Russell manages to get her shot past the keeper but pulls her attempt wide of the goal.

                  Half-time Cambridge WFC Reserves 2-0 Fulbourn Bluebirds

  A comfortable 1st half from Cambridge have scored 2 goals and fashioned several chances their ability to break beyond the Fulbourn defence keeping the visitors pinned back not prepared to commit the players forwards in attack with the wide players struggling to get up to support Rule in attack.

   Fulbourn kick off the 2nd 45 the forward pass cut out by Cambridge and they immediately send the ball out to Russell on the right she looks to take it down the pitch, has Lucy Clarkson for company the Fulbourn defender pushing her wide delaying the cross, Russell eventually squeezes the ball through by then though Eleanor Tod has come across to the near post to clear the ball.

    Clarkson intercepts this time with Pamplin in the centre looking to sends Russell away down the right again. Cambridge are still attacking not sitting back on their 2 goal lead, have the ball in front of the Fulbourn area a shot is hit low deflected behind for a corner on the right.

    GOAL! It's Russell to play the ball into the area from the corner is a good delivery plenty of pace on the ball finds it's way through to the back post and to Pamplin who rises unmarked to head the ball down and into the back of the net 3-0.

    Fulbourn win their 1st corner of the match it's Geal to put the ball in from the right into a crowded near post Cambridge scramble it away the ball popping back out to the right is flung back in clears everyone before Mhunduru sees it into her gloves.

   A fantastic save from D'Costa as Cambridge's Clark races clear of the defence is in on goal hits the shot on the run aiming for the bottom left corner, the Fulbourn keeper is down sharply to deflect the ball away for a corner. The set piece is cleared from the area comes all the way back to Cambridge's Robyn Phillips, she has a strike for goal places it over.
Cambridge make full use of their substitutes with another triple switch Nicola Geoghan, Phillips and Mosley having a rest, Roberts, Whitehead and Greed back on.

   Rule has been ploughing a lone furrow up front for Fulbourn at times this evening, peeling out into the left channel the pass from the centre finds her head down she pushes on into the box looking to shot, has Mhunduru racing out to close the angle down dropping before her as Rule shoots smothers the shot. Fulbourn bring on Kathryn Morley for Bodger.

   GOAL! Cambridge add a 4th goal to their tally coming after Fulbourn have actually started to enjoy a bit more possession on the ball inside the Cambridge half their attack breaking down though the ball is sent through the middle with Russell springing the offside trap heading for the D has a defender on her shoulder and D'Costa racing out to close her down their is a collision that leaves D'Costa grounded the ball popping loose to the left, Russell is onto it and plays the ball into the empty net beyond 4-0.

   Her last action of the games as Russell comes off with Cullum and Fay, back on are Geoghan, Mosley and Phillips. For Fulbourn Rule is given a breather with Rosie Boyns coming on. D'Costa is called into action to make another save this time of Mosley breaking down the left for Cambridge sends the ball in looking to send it across the goal on the stretch D'Costa turns it behind for the corner.

   Cambridge's Geoghan makes a determined run with the ball from inside her own half slipping the pass through to Green in attack she gets a shot away from the edge of the box is a tame effort however rolls through to D'Costa. Fulbourn are finally finding space on the flanks with Molloy pushed up now getting in behind the back line, Mhunduru is out quickly though to get to the ball before she can capitalise.

Cambridge WFC Reserves Nicola Geoghan

   A good ball from Phillips inside her own half sets up a chance for Cullum up top receiving the ball in front of the Fulbourn area she makes a run across the D left to right before hitting a shot back in on the turn, places the ball over the bar.
   
    The final whistle blows and Cambridge WFC Reserves wrap up a comfortable 4-0 victory over Fulbourn to move onto 23 points 2 behind Huntingdon Two Ladies the last game of the season for both sides this coming Sunday 17th May 2pm KO Jubilee Park. A good performance which stretched Fulbourn and kept them from bringing their own attacking players into the game limited their chances in attack.

   Thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details look forwards to seeing both again next season.

Match Report - Acle United Ladies v Leverstock Green Ladies

  Heading east along the A47 this Sunday to take in a match in the Eastern Region Women's Football League Premier Division, just a handful of games left with the league title won a while back it's the battle at the bottom of the table to avoid relegation could be decided today as Acle United Ladies play Leverstock Green Ladies knowing a point will ensure they keep their status in the league for a 2nd season.

   I haven't see Acle United Ladies in league action yet this season, on the previous 2 occasions they have been away from home in the Norfolk Women's County Cup the last game I watched them in the Final itself at the FDC Norfolk where they over came Thorpe United Ladies on penalties to lift the cup.

  A brief recap of their season to date, newly promoted to the Premier Division this season they struggled for points at the beginning going into Christmas were in real trouble. Since the start of the year though their results have drastically improved coinciding with bringing in a new coach went on a long unbeaten run in 2015 eventually being stopped by League Champion's Lowestoft Ladies, a win 5-1 away win against Gt Shelford Ladies has lifted them off the bottom of the table on goal difference with 17 points over AFC Dunstable Ladies and with the Bedfordshire side having completed all of their fixtures Acle United Ladies know at least a point today will be enough for safety.

  Leverstock Green Ladies travel up to Norfolk from Hertfordshire with their Premier Division status secured, are making the trip for the 2nd time after the original league fixture was abandoned due to lightning and torrential rain making the pitch unplayable before the 1st half was completed. Is their final game of the season currently in 8th place in the table with 21 points a point or better can lift them above Barking Ladies into 7th.

   A change of venue for Acle United Ladies means I won't see them play at their Bridewell Lane home with the pitch being unavailable this Sunday, instead it was a few miles further up the Acle straight into Gorleston, the Lynn Grove Academy's 3G pitch where it looked like the groundsman had enjoyed a liquid lunch before returning to finish marking the pitch.

  Despite the interesting pitch markings the 3G pitch was as large as any I've seen would prove to be a zippy surface on a bright sunny Sunday afternoon although there was a brisk breeze blowing about.








  Acle United Ladies starting XI - Chloe Nixon, Georgina Beckwith, Helen Emmerson (C), Kelly Gray, Natasha Greenfield, Kate Pasque, Rose Glendinning, Luka Goodfield, Francesca Lambert, Leonie Daulby & Jenna Thurtle.
  subs - Imogen Williams.

  Leverstock Green Ladies starting XI - Lucy Tape, Stephanie Palfrey, Mia Hickey, Natasha Sherriff, Kim Mulgrew, Donna McAvoy, Natalie Burrows, Giselle Randall (C) & Nicola Hollick.

   The eagle eyed amongst you will notice straight away Leverstock Green were at a numerical disadvantage right from the off having travelled up from Hertfordshire to the east Norfolk coast with just 9 players. Would be a challenge right from the off as the visitors kitted out in green and white hooped shirts, green shorts and socks kicked off the match against the 11 of Acle wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks.

  The home side are on the attack straight away with the ball played from the middle releasing Francesca Lambert into space on the left, Leverstock Green goalkeeper Lucy Tape though is quickly out of her area to challenge for the ball, Acle regain possession send it out to Luka Goodfield on the opposite flank into space on the right, the ball though picks up pace upon the 3G surface and Goodfield can't chase it down.

 

Leonie Daulby

GOAL! with just 9 players the last thing Leverstock Green wanted to do was concede an early goal, however that is exactly what they do as Acle come forwards again the pass is put into striker Jenna Thurtle on the edge of the area, with the ball at her feet she turns and takes it into the right channel closing in on the by line she whips a cross in along the face of goal looking for team mate Leonie Daulby at the far post, Tape has gotten across and initially saves Daulby's 1st shot from point blank range, the ball though isn't safe pops back up for Daulby to send it into the back of the net to open the scoring 1-0.

  Leverstock Green are prepared to bring the ball out of their half enjoy some possession on the ball in the Acle half as the home side drop deep it's Natalie Burrows who attempts to put the ball into the box looking for the run of Natalie Sheriff on the right, the ball is collected by Acle goalkeeper Chloe Nixon before she can get there.

   With the numerical advantage Acle can afford to keep players out wide looking to break beyond when the ball is played forwards, this time though when Goodfield is fed the ball on the right she looks to drive inside squares the ball to Rose Glendinning in the centre taking two strides she releases a shot can only pick out Tape in the Leverstock Green goal.

   Another Glendinning shot is deflected behind for a corner on the right the set piece is sent in low to Kate Pasque on the edge of the area she shoots, hits the ball against her own team mate Daulby before Leverstock Green clear.

  The visitors are willing to bring the ball forward in number captain Giselle Randall a lively and pacey player hustling the Acle defence for the ball has both Kim Mulgrew and Donna McAvoy up with her and the game has settled down into a more even rhythm.

Leverstock Green Ladies Giselle Randall

  GOAL! Leverstock Green score an equalising goal, breaking from an Acle attack they bring the ball forwards on the left have players bombing forwards as the ball is swept in along the 18 yard line finding it's way through to Sheriff on the right, looking to take on the defender in front of her they come together Sheriff manages to keep her footing as the ball is deflected into space beyond entering the area she pulls the trigger sending her shot across the diving Nixon and into the back of the net 1-1.

  Goodfield out on the right again finds Glendinning in the middle she passes the ball forwards into Thurtle inside the D, she is pushed over, free kick awarded it's Thurtle over the ball, gets it beyond the wall, Tape though is well placed to claim the ball beyond.

   Acle with the counter attack this time bring the ball up from defence Pasque on the ball puts it out to Goodfield on the right, she turns inside looking to send her pass into Thurtle on the turn, Thurtle has Glendinning charging up on the left sending the ball through to her, Tape comes racing out to close Glendinning down sliding in blocks her shot.

   Thurtle and Goodfield link up with Acle attacking in front of the Leverstock Green box the ball ending up with Thurtle on the right of the area sweeps in a low cross swerving across the goal is cleared off the line another shot is blasted back in takes a nick out for a corner on the left. The corner finds it's way all the way through to the far side of goal, Pasque gets a foot to the ball can only turn it wide.

   Leverstock Green are working hard to defend the swirling breeze and zippy 3G surface causing unforced errors from both sides the visitors have a free kick on the half way line the ball is played into Randall central to goal good control she attempts to turn and shoot her effort is blocked.

   GOAL! Into the final minutes of the 1st half and Acle restore their lead, with Leverstock Green working hard to press the ball in the midfield it pops up beyond them and to Daulby who has been hovering in space to the right bringing it down the right flank she squares her cross along the six yard box evading Tape coming to defend her near post finds it's way through to Lambert who has covered the ground from the left to get into the box to tap home 2-1.

                  Half-time Acle United Ladies 2-1 Leverstock Green Ladies

    Acle have the lead going into the break a slender one scored late into the half has been a surprisingly open game considering Leverstock Green only have the 9 players, they have been determined and with Randall up top looking to win the ball has brought others into the game have found themselves 3 v 3 on a few occasions as Acle commit players forwards. Is a case of being patient from the home side the space is there the chances have built up.

Giselle Randall with Acle United Ladies Jenna Thurtle

  Acle kick off the 2nd half start on the front forwards with Pasque travelling forwards with the ball looks to release Lambert on the left for a run down the left, she elects instead to come inside runs into traffic in the centre as Leverstock Green crowd her off the ball.

   Daulby and Lambert almost combine again to score another goal as they did in the 1st half as again Daulby puts the ball in from the right, sends it over Tape this time is dropping behind in the centre of the goal six yard out Lambert is racing in the ball bouncing she goes for the karate kick to try and turn it home, misses.

   GOAL! Acle pressure has been building at the start of the 2nd half have more possession a little more patient hold onto it on the right, bringing it inside it's Goodfield who scores outside the area she drives inside the box and sweeps the ball past Tape to make it 3-1.

Acle United Ladies Luka Goodfield on the ball

   Acle are keeping hold of the ball more now especially inside the Leverstock Green half which is preventing the visitors from keeping players up with Randall when they try and bring it out. Acle make a substitution with Daulby coming off and Imogen Williams coming on to join Thurtle in attack.

   Randall is a lively player the mostly likely to make something happen for Leverstock Green peeling off into space she is given the ball on the right, sends her cross into Mulgrew in the centre inside the D she smashes a low shot through the crowd before her, good save from Nixon in the Acle goal to push it away behind for a corner as she dives to her left.

   GOAL! Another corner is won from a Glendinning shot which is deflected behind the Leverstock Green goal. The ball played in from the left comes through to Pasque to the left of the penalty spot looks to have been pushed as she tries to header the ball down, the referee doesn't blow as the ball drops down with Lambert and Williams converging on it, it's the substitute who stabs the ball into the back of the et to give Acle a 4-1 lead.

   GOAL! Leverstock Green pull a goal back barely a couple of minutes later out of nothing as the ball is played long looking for Randall out on the left the ball is allowed to bounce as Nixon comes racing over to her Randall gets something on the ball 1st at it is past Nixon and rolls into the back of the net 4-2.

   Glendinning good on the ball is always looking to bring it up from the middle travelling with it has Williams making a great supporting run in front of her slips the ball into her coming to the edge of the area has Mia Hickey on her shoulder as she entered the area shoots, Hickey gets her foot in to block it enough to take the pace off the shot allow it to run easily into Tape's gloves in goal.

   Thurtle has been a threat all game getting hold of the ball inside the Leverstock Green half catches them high turning has acres of space to chase the ball into coming to the edge of the area is right of the goal as she pulls the trigger sends her shot past the diving Tape only for the ball to smash off the bottom off the post and cleared. Moments later Thurtle is clear of the Leverstock Green defence again comes to the edge of the area with the ball, Tape has come to close her down she gets her shot past the keeper is frustrated as it rolls the wrong side of the post.

   Tape is well placed in her goal to claim a couple of long distance strikes by Acle from Kelly Gray and Williams. Gray then sends the pass through to Thurtle on the turn inside the D she whips a shot in aiming for the bottom corner Tape dives is beaten but again Thurtle can only look to the skies as the shot evades the goal. Gray seeing a lot of the ball at the ball fancies a pop at goal herself 30 yards out her effort is off target.

   Out wide right it's Thurtle on the ball keeps plugging away fires a shot in to the near post low Tape is their to save however the ball pops up from under her squirms free behind her in front of goal Lambert is their has a defender closing her in gets her foot under the ball sweeps it over the bar.

    Despite the late pressure though Acle cannot add anymore goals to the their total as the referee blows for full time they win 4-2 the win ensuring their Premier Division status for another season a great 2nd half to the season, encouraging going forwards into a new campaign. Had to be patient never as easy as it looks when you have more players on the pitch than your opponents.

   A great effort from Leverstock Green in their last game of the season the 9 players they brought up to Norfolk putting in a good determined effort to not only defend but take the game to Acle.

    One more game left for Acle against the league champion's Lowestoft Town Ladies

  My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team sheets and Acle for the sandwiches.

  

  
 
  

Match Report - Fulbourn Bluebirds v Isleham United Ladies

  Another midweek trip into Cambridgeshire to take in a 2nd game from the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership, and an opportunity to see 2 new teams play for the 1st time Fulbourn Bluebirds and Isleham United Ladies.

   Always look forwards to seeing another women's football team play for the 1st team and try to see as many as I can even though I invariably leave wanting to see them again, thus the number of women's football teams I want to see is always going up!

   Like Huntingdon Town Ladies and Cambridge WFC Reserves who I saw play out a 1-1 draw last evening (see previous match report), Fulbourn Bluebirds and Isleham United Ladies are playing a midweek fixture in order to get all of their games in before the season closes.

   Is a contest between the 2 clubs at the bottom of the Premiership table, a newly formed division this season by the Cambridgeshire FA, with women's football in Cambridgeshire having previously been split into a Northern and Southern Division, now 7 sides compete in the Premiership with a Championship North and South below.

   Fulbourn Bluebirds find themselves in 6th place in the table with 9 points taken so far with 2 wins and 3 draws, have 3 fixtures left to complete can't be caught, but a positive result tonight gives them hope of climbing a place in the table as their last 2 fixtures are home and away to the team above them Cambridge WFC Reserves. Have a decent sized squad although this is just as well as the club have a number on the side-lines injured.

   Isleham United Ladies have found life tough in the newly formed Premiership have been on the wrong end of some heavy defeats over the course of the season, have just the single league win and 3 points on the board will finish bottom. There single league win however was against todays opponents Fulbourn at the start of the season. Come to the ground today though with the bare bones 11 players have a number missing through injury too and are looking to bring in new faces for a new league campaign in particular are looking for a goalkeeper.

   Fulbourn Bluebirds play in Fulbourn to the east of Cambridge. The venue the Home End on the villages Recreation Ground hosting a number of sporting facilities, tennis courts and cricket field to name a couple. It was the football pitch I was interested in however situated at the far end of the ground. The pitch looked in good nick well maintained with a healthy covering of grass. Really thought I was in for a wet one tonight having left torrential showers behind in Norfolk, by the time I arrived in Fulbourn however the sun was out it was a pleasant instead of getting wet however I was surrounded by a cloud of gnats

     Fulbourn Bluebirds starting XI - Emma D'Costa, Lucy Clarkson, Eleanor Tod, Rachel Garrett Michela Garner, Abigail Molloy, Sharon Pinner, Krissie Taylor (C), Sarah-Louise Bodger, Kirsty Geal & Ebony-Jade Rule.
    subs - Jess Anderson, Kathryn Morley, Rosie Boyns & Rebecca Sharp

   Isleham United Ladies starting XI - Emily Mynott, Loiuse Davies, Becky Webb (C), Natalie Hill, Donna Woodcock, Sophie Brocklesby, Vicky Sievewright, Justyna Lipinska, Michelle Clark, Laura McAllister & Laura Todd.

                        (roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's Isleham to kick off the first half kitted out in green shirts with black shorts and socks against Fulbourn lined up in claret and sky blue shirts, with claret shorts and socks. Isleham have an early offside call go against them the ball is put out to Abigail Molloy on the right of the midfield she plays the ball forwards clearing the Isleham back line Fulbourn have two players converging to get to the ball as it drops to the right hand corner of the area Ebony-Jade Rule and Sarah-Louise Bodger, it's Rule with the 1st touch knocking the ball to Bodger who puts her foot through the ball lashes it into the side netting.

   Fulbourn win a their 1st corner played in from the right, Isleham's Natalie Hill comes to meet the ball headers it behind for a 2nd corner, this one is sent in beyond Hill comes into the crowd around the penalty spot Sharon Pinner for Fulbourn gets a head on the ball, too many bodies to go through the ball pops back to Bodger, chesting it down she puts her shot wide of goal.

   Vicky Sievewright gets hold of the ball for Isleham in the centre both Laura McAllister and Laura Todd are looking to make runs for her in attack, Sievewright looks to send McAllister through, her 1st touch is a little too heavy however and the ball travels through into the gloves of Fulbourn goalkeeper Emma D'Costa.

   Fulbourn have been doing most of the attacking bringing the ball forwards and getting players in beyond the Isleham defence leaving Emily Mynott who usually plays on the wing a little exposed in goal.

  GOAL! Fulbourn open the scoring a little over 15 minutes played, the home side have possession of the ball on the left inside the Isleham players have gotten drawn over to the ball as Pinner sends in a diagonal ball into the box which comes through perfectly to Kirsty Geal, with her 1st touch she strokes the ball over the keeper to give Fulbourn the lead 1-0.

  GOAL! Barely 3 minutes later and Fulbourn steal through to add a 2nd goal it's scored by Rule as she breaks beyond the Isleham defence to get on to the end of a cross fired in to the near post from the right, Rule meets the ball sweeping her shot in under the bar 2-0.

  GOAL! It's a purple patch for Fulbourn that leaves Isleham reeling as 2 becomes 3 with the next attack, have numbers piled forwards the ball is put into Pinner on the edge of the area left of the goal she shoots, Mynott has started to come gets something in it blocking the ball but has Rule closing her down, gets some contact on the ball is going to creep over the line, Mynott lunging pulls the ball away but is unfortunate as the ball finds Pinner again eight yards out having continued into the box she gets her shot past the keeper this time 3-0.

  3 goals in the space of 7 minutes have given Fulbourn control of the match has shaken Isleham. The home side bring on Jess Anderson for Lucy Clarkson. Keeping the attacks going Fulbourn win another 2 corners both times it's Hill though with the defensive clearance.

  GOAL! Fulbourn score a 4th goal and their captain Krissie Taylor is involved in the build up with the ball retained down the left wing, Taylor comes inside has Jess Anderson making a supporting run as Mynott races out to the edge of the area to try and close them both down as the three come together the ball pops out and across to Rule who can send the ball into a empty net 4-0.

   Isleham try to bring the ball up the pitch attacks are few and far between winning a throw deep on the right the cross picks out Becky Webb a good way out from goal she takes on the shot Emma D'Costa in the Fulbourn goal is behind it all the way. 3rd sub for Fulbourn with Bodger coming off and Kathryn Morley coming on.

 

Ebony-Jade Rule

GOAL! It's a 5th goal for Fulbourn and a 3rd for Rule as she completes a 1st half hat-trick. The pass dissects the Isleham defence to send Rule through beyond to take the ball in the area, having come and missed the ball last time Mynott stays rooted to her line this time with the momentum carrying her forwards Rule puts plenty of pace into her shot to fire the ball across the goal and into the bottom corner 5-0.

   Sievewright looks the most likely to thread a ball through to the Isleham strikers McAllister and Todd with Fulbourn attacking they are defending a high line up on half way there is room to run in beyond, Todd is on the shoulder of the last defender when the pass does put her in D'Costa comes and committing early kicks the ball away from outside her area. At the back for Fulbourn Michela Garner tries having a go from 40 yards out a swerving shot Mynott is behind it palms it down before safely gathering.

  GOAL! A 4th goal for Rule as Fulbourn add to their score, the no 9 springing the off side once again through into the area to the right of the goal she sends her shot across the goal and in at the far post 6-0.

                 Half-time Fulbourn Bluebirds 6-0 Isleham United Ladies.

  Fulbourn in control of the match as the referee blows for half-time have been clinical when put through on goal putting their chances away a rapid 3 goal opening leaving Isleham shattered and on the back foot. Know they have little chance to get back into the match but return to the pitch in good spirits knowing it's the last game of the season and they may as well enjoy it as Fulbourn get the 2nd half underway.

  Is a quieter opening to the 2nd half Isleham have the ball as Sophie Brocklesby bringing the ball into the Fulbourn half looks to get it out to McAllister moving into space on the right wing, coming to the by line McAllister looks to drive with the ball into the area, but runs into traffic and is eventually crowded off the ball.

   Sarah-Louise Bodger has come on for Fulbourn at the start of the 2nd period she smashes a stinging shot into the box from the edge of the area turning in a cross pinged into her by Rule out on the left flank, the ball is blocked, but spins away for a goal kick as Bodger's shot hits team mate Pinner in the side of the head as she has no time to avoid it.

    Isleham win a free kick inside the Fulbourn half, the ball is sent in towards the D there are plenty of bodies around it as McAllister get's hold of it for the visitors on the turn she shifts the ball between her feet opening up a shooting opportunity pulls the trigger a Fulbourn boot flicks out taking the sting off the shot with D'Coast beyond down to bring it up into her glove.

   GOAL! Although they have had plenty of corners in the game so far Fulbourn have yet to score from one this changes with one from the left the ball is played in Pinner comes towards the ball and stooping forwards flicks the ball on with the back of her head to the edge of the area where it is met by Anderson who sends the ball with pace into the back of the net 7-0.

   Anderson has to come off soon after as she goes down with an injury. Isleham are having more of the ball in the Fulbourn half but with a bare 11 are starting to feel the pace of the game with Fulbourn having the substitutes to rotate and rest players, McAllister is looking to the right channel more in an effort to get into a crossing position no one can cover the ground to try and attack the ball though.

   Isleham have a break on as a Fulbourn attack breaks down bringing the ball out is sent up to Todd she is clear and running towards the box D'Costa is coming to close her down, she has McAllister clear on her right, looks to put her through gets the ball too close to the Fulbourn keeper though and D'Costa gets enough on it to slow the ball down and retrieve it.

   GOAL! Rule scores again as the ball is send long up the pitch as Isleham loose possession out on the left of the pitch in plenty of space Rule chases the ball down and turning to look at her options takes on the shot sending the ball in towards goal heading in under the bar Mynott get's something on the shot knocking it down but it drops beyond her and bounces over the line before she can sweep it out 8-0.

   Rule is through on goal again moments later on the right this time has Hill with her though as she tries the shot from a tight angle pulls it across the face of goal and out. Getting tired Isleham's defence is getting turned by Fulbourn with Rule and Geal both looking to peel into space wide on the flanks. A shot is fired in from just over the half way lie by Fulbourn's Molloy stings Mynott's gloves but the keeper brings it down well and claims with Rule looking to pounce.

   GOAL! Mynott is unlucky as Fulbourn add a 9th goal to their tally. The Isleham keeper doing well to initially save from a cross/shot fired in from the left into her near post she get a good fist on it the ball is played back though in as the defence pushes up drops kindly for Bodger who springs the offside trap Mynott races out to the edge of her box to close her down, Bodger pops the ball over her and into the net beyond 9-0.

   GOAL! 10 minutes left on the clock and captain Krissie Taylor gets on the score sheet the ball is played over from the right hand side of the pitch Taylor runs after it has no one marking her turns and brings the ball back in looks to send a low shot in to the near post Mynott is there, however the shot squirms in 10-0.

    GOAL! Is a rout entering the last 5 minutes with the light starting to fade and the gnats getting hungry Rule completes her 2nd hat-trick of the night as Geal finds the energy to travel half the length of the pitch with the ball at her feet, whips the cross in with pace as Mynott attempts to come out to stop her the ball going beyond her leaving Rule to run in a tap home from 2 yards 11-0.

   Fulbourn continue to press going into the closing moments Mynott saves from a 30 yard curling effort from Michela Garner, then again from Rosie Boyns as she fizz's a shot with power behind it into the area. The final whistle blows and Fulbourn win the match 11-0.

   The result see's Fulbourn turn their negative goal difference into a positive one close the gap to Cambridge WFC Reserves to 5 points with their last 2 games against them, will have gained plenty of confidence from tonight's performance were clinical and took their chances.

   A tough end to a tough season for Isleham a heavy defeat their ability showed in patches but the belief was knocked out of them, still good to see them leaving the pitch in good spirits and will regroup for a new season and a new campaign.

   Always a tough game to cover and report but that's football my thanks to the coaching staff of both teams for being so accommodating and helping me out with the squad details tonight.



  

  

Match Report - Huntingdon Town Ladies v Cambridge WFC Reserves

   Two familiar names making a quick return to the SWF Blog coming together for a meeting in the league just 8 days after playing each other in the final of the Cambridgeshire S-Tech Women's League Cup, Huntingdon Town Ladies and Cambridge WFC Reserves.

   Last Tuesday at Ely City FC it was Huntingdon Town Ladies who won the final 2-1 in extra time to win the League Cup, now the pair meet in the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership. Both clubs come together to complete a midweek fixture in order to get all of their games in before the end of the season.

   With 2 games left to play Huntingdon Town Ladies are in 4th place in the league table with 24 points after 16 matches played, need maximum points from their last 2 fixtures if they want to overhaul Netherton United Ladies who lay in 3rd on 29 points having completed all of their fixtures.

   Cambridge WFC Reserves have 4 games left to squeeze in between now and the end of the season are a place behind Huntingdon in 5th, but some 8 points behind can chase 4th place down if they can get the points starting with their opponents tonight.

   The venue Jubilee Park on the outskirts of Huntingdon houses both the men's and women's teams a modern build sporting facility with nice clubhouse leading to the main pitch beyond where the women would be playing tonight, a 6:30pm kick off to get the match completed before the floodlights need to be switched on. The weather could best be described as changeable had been wet and windy for much of the day, but thankfully as the teams came out to warm up the sun made an appearance although there was some cover should it turn wet again.

   Huntingdon Town Ladies starting XI - Emma Clark, Rachael Bowd, Lydia Bedford, Steph Day, Valarie Smith, Danielle Bennett, Natasha Dowdell, Laura Melling, Claire Knox (C), Kelly Daniels & Jo Bull.
   subs - Sophie Markeineke, Georgie Goodwin & Megan Stow.

  Cambridge WFC Reserves starting XI - Tafadzwa Mhundru, Maria Davies, Becca Fay, Robin Phillips (C), Nicola Geoghan, Jade Powell, Ellie Cullum, Clara Greed, Sarah Mosley, Becky Russell & Gemma Clark.
  subs - Kayleigh Whitehead & Emma Roberts.

   It's the home side Huntingdon to kick off the match kitted out in red and black hooped shirts and socks with black shorts against Cambridge lined up in sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts. Huntingdon get the ball up the right early on before Cambridge in it back and break with the pass setting Clara Greed away down the left, taking the ball down beyond the 18 yard box, looks to swing a cross into the area is an in swinger turns towards goal and Emma Clark in the Huntingdon goal can claim the ball.

    Cambridge are on the front foot in the opening minutes another pass from Ellie Cullum in the centre of midfield releases Gemma Clark on the right, with the ball she travels into box and looks to send her shot across Clark gets too much on it and the ball rolls wide of the far post.

    Becky Russell gets on the ball in front of the Huntingdon area, holding it up looks to work it across the D before attempting the shot the ball is deflected off a defender and out wide of the goal corner given. The corner put in from the right is long goes out to the left as players are looking to clear the box the ball is retrieved and put back in finds Sarah Mosley six yards out at the near post she puts her header straight at Clark who makes the save.

   Huntingdon are looking to build an attack when Cambridge win the ball back in their half a play it long out to the right, it's Mosley who gives chase has Huntingdon's Valarie Smith with her which keeps Gemma Clark onside as she bursts into space beyond Mosley sends the ball into her path Clark is one on one with the keeper as she comes out to close her down on the edge of the area, Clark shoots places it wide of her, is also wide of the goal beyond.

   Huntingdon's build up is more measured than their opponents are looking to get more players up and around the box gives Cambridge time to get bodies back behind the ball and squeeze the final ball. Out on the right Natasha Dowdell brings the ball forwards has Lydia Bedford making the run to her left looks to play her in, she doesn't control the ball but it travels to the other side of the area where captain Claire Knox gets hold of it and sends a shot in towards goal, on target hasn't the height to trouble Cambridge keeper Tafadzwa Mhundru.

    Huntingdon make a double change with Jo Bull and Danielle Bennett coming off, with Georgie Goodwin and Sophie Markeineke coming on. Knox has the ball again on the left sending a curling cross into the box, Mhundru keeps her eye on the ball with Goodwin racing in on her to see it safely into her gloves.

    Emma Clark in the Huntingdon goal then has a tricky ball to deal with as Russell attempting to play Greed in on the left swings the ball up into the air is heading for goal, with the sun in her eyes Clarke sees it safely into her gloves on her line. Sloppy from the Huntingdon defence allows Russell to steal the ball on the right skipping beyond into space fires her cross along the six yard line, Clark gets to it before Greed can reach it beyond.

  Is another close game between the two sides, the wind has picked up has gotten decidedly chilly now. Markeineke, Bedford and Knox link up well in attack for Huntingdon keeping possession in front of the Cambridge area, Knox has the shot from the left is blocked spins in beyond Mhundru is down to save with Bedford after the ball.

Huntingdon Town Ladies Lydia Bedford

   GOAL! With just a few minutes of the 1st half left it looked unlikely that a goal would be scored, Huntingdon take the lead as they enjoy sustained possession on the right of the right. The ball is delivered into the near post area, Mhundru has bodies to get through as she comes looking to punch the ball, her touch isn't clean the ball goes beyond her drops down in the centre of the six yard box, Bedford is the player who gets to it 1st stretching out a leg to stab the ball up into the back of the net 1-0.

                   Half-time Huntingdon Town Ladies 1-0 Cambridge WFC Reserves.

 The dead lock broken by Huntingdon is virtually the last action of the half, has been a tight game. Huntingdon have the lead have had the ball for longer  but found it hard to break down the Cambridge defence, looking to counter attack Cambridge have had space to exploit beyond with Clarke, Russell and Greed all finding themselves beyond the Huntingdon back line just haven't been able to pick out the clinical final ball.

   Cambridge kick off the 2nd half have made to changes with regular captain Emma Roberts on along with Kayleigh Whitehead, Cullum and Jade Powell having a break from the centre of midfield see's some repositioning with Nicola Geoghan and Becca Fay both moving forwards from defence, Roberts and Whitehead step into the defence.

   Huntingdon have made changes to Natasha Dowdell taking up the role of keeper for the 2nd half and Megan Stow on at left back. Cambridge are looking to pressure the ball higher up the pitch at the start of the 2nd half. Huntingdon have the 1st attack however the ball put through from midfield into Markeineke outside the area to the left of goal looks to send the ball around Mhundru in goal, the keeper gets something on the ball as Goodwin comes chasing the ball is spilt loose to Mhundru's right as she goes to ground, Goodwin can't untangle her foot from Mhundru to latch onto the ball before the keeper can throw herself at the ball and bring it into her body.

    Huntingdon are asserting themselves more in the 2nd half getting plenty forwards, are defending a high line at times giving Cambridge space to run into beyond, getting the ball over the home defence it's Clark on the left bringing the ball on has Russell up with her to the right of the goal she finds her, Russell hits the shot 1st time, Valarie Smith has covered the ground to get back however blocks the ball deflecting it behind for a corner.

   Both sides try a long pass from halfway looking to send a runner in on goal both balls though are claimed by the keeper before anyone can reach it, Ellie Cullum comes back on for Cambridge with Greed coming off. Soon after Jade Powell is back on too going into the back line in place of Robin Phillips. Huntingdon bring Danielle Bennett on for Kelly Daniels.

Cambridge WFC Reserves Nicola Geoghan

  GOAL! Cambridge get the scores back on level terms. The attack beginning with Becca Fay as she plays the pass from her own half out to Clark on the left she travels all the way down the wing before fizzing a cross into Cullum up on the edge of the area, her back to goal she can't find the space to turn and shoot, Clark has come inside offering support Cullum rolls it to her Clark shoots the ball is blocked spins out across the area, to the right of the D it's Nicola Geoghan who meets it hits a low shot drilling it beyond Dowdell at the near post 1-1.

   The game has livened up with both sides wanting to attack for Cambridge, Russell sends a curling shot in from a central position, is headed away. Rachael Bowd for Huntingdon puts the ball forwards into Goodwin on the right she has Markeineke with her the 2 link before sending a ball into the box, it's Kayleigh Whitehead with the defensive header in the centre of goal who wins the ball. Bowd has space to travel forwards into as everyone is attracted to the other side of the pitch the ball comes to her looking to hit it from 30 yards out slices it wide.

    Bedford running with the ball at her feet shoulder to shoulder with her marker does well to play a pass forwards for Bennett, as she looks to take the ball into the box has Emma Roberts coming across makes the tackle. Huntingdon have a corner on the right is sent in low and hard is met by Goodwin in the centre gets her foot under the ball prods the ball up and over the bar.
 
   Phillips and Greed are back on for Cambridge going into the last 15 minutes for Clark and Maria Davies. Mosley in the middle goes on a mazy run with the ball taking it past 2 Huntingdon players before laying it off to Russell on her right, outside the box she takes on the shot aiming for the near post Dowdell is well placed to make the save.

  Cullum has the ball out wide right for Cambridge, has Mosley bursting forwards to get into the box, Cullum gets the ball into her Mosley though can't bring it down for a shot has Smith back with her preventing the opportunity, Smith clears and Huntingdon counter the ball arriving at Bowd's feet right she sends a diagonal ball into the area this time it's Powell who heads clear for Cambridge.

  Defenders are on top however as the referee blows the final whistle and the points are shared 1-1. Another close game between the 2 sides few chances created a point helping neither side climb the table Huntingdon stay 4th, Cambridge 5th need to win their last 3 games if they want to over haul Huntingdon the 2 are scheduled to play each other again in their final match of the season.

   My thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the team details tonight (hopefully I've spelt everybody's name right this time).

   


 

Cup Final Report - Wymondham Town Ladies v Brandon Town Ladies

  A third Women's League Cup Final in a week and after Cambridgeshire and Suffolk it's a trip east along the A47 this Sunday to watch the Norfolk Women's League Cup Final to be contested by Wymondham Town Ladies and Brandon Town Ladies.
 
  The Finalists

   Wymondham Town Ladies compete in the Norfolk Women's Division One where they have finished in 3rd place this season. Were the winners of the competition in the 2012/13 season, reached the final last year finished runners up beaten 4-0 by Thorpe United Ladies. 

   This season's competition saw Wymondham drawn at home to 2nd division side Red Rose Ladies in the 1st round won 5-0. Was another 2nd division side in the 2nd round with a 12-2 home victory over Harleston Ladies. At home again in the quarter finals faced fellow Division One opponents Stalham Town Ladies recorded another 5-0 win to set up a home semi-final against new Norfolk Women's Division One champions Aylsham FC Ladies booking their place in todays final with a 2-0 win.

  Brandon Town Ladies have moved over from competing in the Suffolk Women's Division to Norfolk joining Division Two where they are top of the table and closing in on promotion to the top flight of women's football in Norfolk with a 2 games left to play.

   Had a bye for the 1st round of the League Cup before facing a tricky home tie against Division One side Bungay Town Ladies, won 2-1 to reach the quarter finals an away trip to play fellow 2nd Division side Kirkley & Pakefield Ladies won the match 0-3. Another away trip in the semi finals a tough test against the League Cup holders Thorpe United Ladies. Won the semi final 1-2 to make it to the final.

   The venue for todays League Cup Final, Plantation Park, home of Norwich United FC as well as the home ground for Norwich City Ladies. Situated near Blofield east of Norwich off the A47. The ground was hosting a finals day today with the U16s & U18s finals taking place earlier in the day as well as the Women's 7s Final. The ground is a nice sporting complex with a number of pitches, also houses the Macron Store whom are dedicated supporters to women's and girls football in Norfolk.

  The weather wasn't playing ball early on was a wet start to the day but slowly it eased off and although I was prepared for all eventualities by the time kick off arrived the sun had broken through and weather was perfect as the 2 teams entered the pitch.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Gemma Hamilton-Rout, Emma Chambers, Kelly Ayers, Mary Cann (C), Louise Hamilton-Rout, Rachel Cossey, Leah Newcombe, Laura Hammerton, Kayleigh Holloway, Amber Cantwell & Sally Hammerton.
  subs - Gemma Perry, Laura Parry & Natalie Woods.

  Brandon Town Ladies starting XI - Shannon Oderbrecht, Melanie Talbot, Natasha Rutter, Laura Grove, Ellie Marshall, Hazel Shepherd, Frankie Torrance, Georgina O Malley, Brooke Wickens, Tiffany Forshaw (C) & Laura Brame.
  subs - Leanne Sloan, Rachel Lynch & Chelsea Paremain.

                                     (roll on, roll off substitutes)

  It's Wymondham in red shirts, black shorts and socks to kick off the League Cup Final against Brandon who are lined up in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. Wymondham start on the attack feeding the ball up to Kayleigh Holloway wide on the left the ball is sent into the area, half hearted cries for a penalty as a Wymondham player goes down, nothing given as the ball is put out for a throw wide left the cross swept back in is safely into Brandon goalkeeper Shannon Oderbrecht's gloves.

 

Amber Cantwell

  Wymondham continue to press early on keeping the ball in the Brandon half win a free kick wide on the right it's Amber Cantwell to play the ball into the area. Even as the ball is in the air Cantwell is on the move into the right wing so as Brandon clear the ball to the right she is the one to meet it, looks to square the ball back across the goal instead wins a corner. Cantwell to take the corner sends the ball in at a good height and pace is met by Laura Hammerton from six yards a firm header sending the ball down but bounces up to high and clears the crossbar.


   Brandon have struggled to get the ball deep into the Wymondham half early on, Frankie Torrance attempts to take it down the left, Wymondham right back Kelly Ayers puts in the challenge putting the ball out for a throw, taken quickly the ball is put into Georgina O Malley, she looks to slide the pass forwards into Brandon captain Tiffany Forshaw, on the edge of the area she looks to hit the ball on the spin too much on the shot sends the ball high over the bar.

   Holloway getting hold of the ball on the halfway line almost slips striker Sally Hammerton in beyond the Brandon defence but as she races clear to get onto the ball inside the box, Oderbrecht has come out to slide in and claim the ball at her feet. Wymondham are playing a good pressing game inside the Brandon half with Holloway and Cantwell providing options left and right for midfielders Rachel Cossey, Louise Hamilton-Rout & Laura Hammerton to pass to.

   Brandon's Laura Brame is fouled on the left just outside the area as she tries to shift the ball to take it into the box, it's Torrance over the free kick whips is a curling low cross looking for a runner at the far post to turn it home, just evades everyone.

 

Laura Hammerton

GOAL! Wymondham score the opening goal as Holloway looks to break down the left once again she is fouled by Melanie Talbot. The set piece is swept in head height with plenty of pace curling in to the near post Laura Hammerton is up looking to get something on it the ball falls at the far post and creeps over the line as Oderbrecht falling tries to keep it out, everyone rushes to Hammerton to celebrate with 28 minutes played 1-0.

   Brandon are finding it tough going trying to get Forshaw and Brame on the ball, Cossey is the one for Wymondham more often then not back there to help her defence, then when she does get on the ball try and thread it through into Sally Hammerton to try and have a run at goal. Brandon shots are being limited to long range after a bit of head tennis in the Wymondham half, Forshaw does manage to bring the ball down wrapping her foot around it on the turn from 40 yards out pulls the shot wide of goal.

   Brandon are getting a little more possession in the Wymondham half, midfielder Hazel Shepherd is pushing on a little bit more looking to give Forshaw and Brame support, giving Brame the ball out on the right she wins a corner. Torrance takes fizzing the ball into O Malley on the edge of the area she returns the pass and Torrance sends it sweeping across the goal face, Shepherd is coming in at the back post but running out of room as she meets the ball is the wrong side of the post. Rachel Lynch comes on for Brandon, Brooke Wickens coming off.

  
 From the Wymondham midfield Louise Hamilton-Rout has made a run to get into the area as the ball is fired in from left tries to get onto it, goes down as Brandon get it out of the box only as far as Sally Hammerton on the edge of the area, she looks to curl a shot back in, Oderbrecht throws her arm up to stop it as it smashes against the cross bar and out.

    Brandon have a throw on the left deep in the Wymondham half late on as Shepherd attempts to roll the ball through for Forshaw in the area. The throw is played long his helped on into the area is bouncing however Wymondham goalkeeper Gemma Hamilton-Rout keeps her eye on the ball and claims with runners looking to steal in.

                Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 1-0 Brandon Town Ladies

   Has been Wymondham's half started the better and have created more of the chances although neither goalkeeper has been overly troubled. A good contest between two good footballing sides who look to get the ball travelling quickly. Wymondham with the 1 goal lead still all to play for as both teams are out early for the 2nd half, are made to wait by the referee. Brandon to kick off the 2nd half have brought Leanne Sloan.

   Wymondham have brought on Laura Parry at the start of the 2nd half, they start the brighter again as Sally Hammerton is put through on the right outside the box tries to put the ball back in sends her shot/cross flashing across the face of goal and out. Hollloway is constantly looking to take players on more often than not up against Talbot the two are having a good battle. Holloway evades Talbot this time and sends a cross in to the near post with Sally Hammerton looking to race in on the ball, Oderbrecht though has read the danger and is out and grabbing the ball as Hammerton clatters into her the ball is split goes behind corner given.

   Forshaw holding up the ball plays it beyond her into Shepherd, she can't quite get to it but Brame is up with her hustles the Wymondham defence to win a throw, Brandon's Rachel Lynch has a good throw on her launches the ball long into the box Forshaw is the one to bring it down has Sloan close by can't get her shot away the ball is blocked comes lose to Forshaw she gets a strike away, in goal Gemma Hamilton-Rout dives full length the ball not having the pace to evade her she pushes it away for a corner. Hamilton-Rout punches the corner ball away at the far post bulldozers Brandon's Natasha Rutter in the process as she looks to meet the ball.

   Rutter is taken off to recover along with Brame as Brandon bring Lauren Grove and Brooke Wickens on. 30 yards out for Wymondham good footwork from Cantwell she shifts the ball to evade a challenge opens up space to shoot, Oderbrecht is across to save although the ball flying wide.

   Emma Chambers comes off the pitch for Wymondham with Natalie Woods coming on. On the left for Brandon is Forshaw she whips a good ball into the box has Shepherd making the run, the ball though is too close to the keeper and she can make the save. Brame is back on for Brandon with Sloan giving way.

   Laura Hammerton has been making some fantastic forward runs from midfield for Wymondham all game, with Holloway on the ball out left she pushes on again the ball is played into her, with her 1st touch evades a challenge to open up the space to shoot 25 yards out sweeps the ball in, smashes against the bar.

  GOAL! from a corner put in from the right Wymondham double their lead in the match is fired in at a great height again and it's Laura Hammerton who jumps unmarked in the centre of the six yard box to head the ball down once again this time heading for the corner of the goal, Oderbrecht dives but can't keep it out 2-0.

   Gemma Perry enters the field of play for Wymondham now with captain Mary Cann coming off. Laura Hammerton is fouled out on the left, she is over the ball looks to fire a shot in to the top corner, pulls it wide of goal.

    Brandon who have been looking for a regular goalkeeper all season make a change between the sticks with Chelsea Paremain donning the shirt she replaces Ellie Marshall with Oderbrecht going into an outfield position as Brandon look to find a way back into the game. Forshaw strong with her back to goal holds the ball up as it is fired into her, bringing it up as she turns looks to hit the shot from 25 yards on the half volley, a wild strike over.

    O Malley and Brame link up down the right wing, a give and go the best Brame can do is win her side a corner. Is a good delivery played along the six yard line to the far post Oderbrecht is the one who meets it with her head puts the shot over the bar. Wymondham have gone a little bit deep since scoring the 2nd goal are inviting Brandon onto them giving them a chance to put pressure on their area for the 1st time in the game.

   On the ball Forshaw plays the pass out to Wickens on the right in space she does well to get to the ball on the by line plays it back for Shepherd coming into the area she sends a shot in at goal, Hamilton-Rout with an instinctive fist turns the ball away from danger. An overload on the right for Brandon with Brame and Wickens in space looking for the cross that is played over, Brame's cross is cleared for a throw, a chance for Lynch to put a long throw in it comes to Shepherd outside the box she doesn't get the contact she wants the ball looping up into the air Hamilton-Rout has her far post covered but the ball falls just over rather than under the bar.

   Despite the late pressure however Wymondham defend well as Brandon try everything to get a goal back the final whistle blows full time 2-0 and Wymondham Town Ladies win this seasons Norfolk Women's League Cup.

   Were the better side on the day keeping the ball higher up the pitch preventing Brandon from getting in behind and causing problems. Brandon struggled to get any meaningful possession in Wymondham's final 3rd now they turn their attention to chasing down the Norfolk Women's Division Two title.

 Played in front of another good sized crowd under the sunshine my thanks to everyone who helped me today.

Wymondham Town Ladies

 Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies, Norfolk Women's League Cup Winners.