Well I thought a blog entry on this WSL transfer period would be something I'd be rounding up when the dust had settled and the new season was ready to begin, but such has been the cyclone of activity blowing through the top tier of English women's football I feel it prudent to summarise the various comings and goings between clubs up to date.
After 3 seasons of an elite league of 8 unchanged teams the 2014 season brings with it change as the WSL gains a 2nd tier of 10 teams. It is the WSL 1 as it will become where there has been a great deal of movement of players. As of the 2014 season the WSL 1 has a new entrant in the form of Manchester City Ladies who somewhat controversally replaced Doncaster Rovers Belles who will been lining up in WSL 2 next season.
It is with Manchester City I will begin. A club with money behind it they got into the WSL set up at the expense of some established women's football names, nevertheless everyone expected them to spend big and bring in star names there were rumours galore one of the most notable being the arrival of USA international goalkeeper Hope Solo. As it was the goalkeeper who did arrive was something of a surprise in the form of current England No 1 Karen Bardsley from Lincoln Ladies. 1st to arrive however was her England team mate midfielder Jill Scott from Everton after deciding not to renew her contract, she was closely followed by another Everton star and England striker Toni Duggan. Now as far as I understand it a WSL team is allowed to have 4 England internationals in it's squad so it was a case of waiting to see whom the 4th would be with a goalkeeper, striker and midfielder a defender was required to complete the set and Manchester City signed versatile England player Steph Houghton from Arsenal. The club has also signed Steph Marsh from Blackburn Rovers Ladies.
The team has a solid spine but to be challenging for the title you would think they would still need to bring in 7/8 top signings but you have to walk before you can run and that might be an unrealistic aim for their 1st season of top football.
I say this however as I move onto Liverpool Ladies the current WSL champions, this after an injection of cash from the men's club see them go from rock bottom the previous 2 seasons to the top of the pile. Matt Beard brought in an entire new team of players then the English quartet as Manchester City have done but also the likes of oversea's internationals such as Whitney Engen, Louise Fors and Corina Schroder. Matt Beard has a strong squad at his disposal so my thought was only 2/3 additions would be needed to defend their title. The clubs 1st move was something of a surprise as they signed a player who was probably the best performer in the league in 2013 and certainly at her club Lincoln Ladies, England U19 international Martha Harris. An extremely shrewd transfer Matt Beard was to also sprung another coup in signing Gemma Davison from Arsenal Ladies in contrast to Martha Harris' huge potential she brings a wealth of experience and Natasha Dowie will thrive on her service. A surprise departure was goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill so Liverpool will be looking for a keeper expect 1 or 2 more in yet.
Likewise the team who finished 2nd last season Bristol Academy Women had a good blend of demestic players and 2 experienced Spanish strikers a surprise package to some, the teams achievements have no doubt helped their manager Mark Sampson as he takes up the ultimate challenge of becoming head coach of the English national team. As of yet no new players have come in although they have secured the services of striker Laura del Rio. One of the biggest transfer moves was the departure of goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain to Arsenal ladies. Need a manager installed quickly if they want to bring new players in.
This was something of a much needed boost to Arsenal Ladies fans as they had seen a host of star players leaving the club after their 3rd place finish and seemingly several more players yet to agree new contracts it is something of a transititional time for the long time unchallenged team in English women's football. Siobhan Chamberlain is a vastly experienced goalkeeper. It was however a little strange that their long serving Irish No 1 goalkeeper Emma Byrne signed a new deal as she has been unchallenged for years will be interesting to see how the club will accommodate both. It was at least a player coming into Arsenal Ladies will they be able a attract more, you would certainly think so and some more will sign new deals eventually.
Just as it was looking up for Arsenal another star player departed however this time another surprise move (have I said that already?) striker Ellen White rejoining her old manager Rick Passmoor at Notts County Ladies. The rebranded clubs 1st signing in this transfer period and the much needed goal scorer they were lacking in the previous campaign whilst still Lincoln Ladies. As some have pointed out she is a target player who thrived on the service the likes of Yankey, Davison and co provided at Arsenal. She will need players to help her and a look at the Notts County Ladies page on the FAWSL website shows you their squad is extremely thin on the ground. More players will be coming in no doubt this window has proved that and the club will need more if they want to push for a top half finish.
The 1st team to make a move in the transfer was Chelsea. Coach Emma Hayes undoubtedly disappointed with their 2nd bottom finish let several players go and was quick to snap up newly released striker Rachel Williams from Birmingham City Ladies. A proven goal scorer in the WSL she had a poor 2013 season and lost her England place linking up again with Eniola Aluko she will no doubt want to win it back and will need plenty of goals to do so. Joining her from Birmingham after finishing her contract was defender Laura Bassett.
Birmingham City Ladies have been quiet in this transfer period so far however that being said I like what manager David Parker is doing there as he has brought in a group of younger players the likes of Kirsty Linnett, Melissa Lawley and Aoife Mannion taking a different approach to other clubs you would still expect to see 1 or 2 arrivals yet.
That leaves Everton Ladies whose fans must be very deflated after seeing 1st Liverpool Ladies, and now Manchester City Ladies tempt their star players away. They like Birmingham City Ladies however have alot of young talented players and put out an announcement just last night that 16 of their players had committed to new deals another Fern Whelan adding her commitment to the club as she recovers from injury. A strong statement from the club it was good to see.
Still alot more to come I feel there are some notable free agents still out there such as Dunia Susi, Katie Holtham, Meaghan Sargeant and Carly Telford (and at least 3 teams might be after a new goalkeeper) more twists and turns shocks and surprises....stay tuned.
A brief mention for WSL 2 as there has been some surprising and eye opening moves as the 2nd teir gears up for the new season most notably from Yeovil Town Ladies who have signed up the experienced Katie Sherwood and Welsh international Helen Bleazard from the area who was released by Chelsea. Millwall Lionesses have swooped for goalkeeper Sarah Quantrill and striker Lillie Billson from Lincoln the later will be a threat in WSL 2 no doubt. Also Reading now with ex Arsenal star Jane Ludlow in charge have signed Welsh striker Helen Ward. Lastly and most notably Doncaster Rovers Belles haven't lost any players to date despite their demotion which is good news for the club and I'd be disappointed if a Belles fan didn't come on twitter and say 'damn right too!' WSL 2 could very well prove to be very interesting in 2014.
No doubt someone just signed for a club just 5 minutes ago but I shall leave it there for now.
A fan of the sport doing my small part to help promote the women's game
Saturday 21 December 2013
Sunday 15 December 2013
SE Combination match report Norwich City LFC v Cambridge WFC
After an intense burst of women's football taking in England's games in the recent UEFA U17 Championships in the midlands 5 games in 13 days along with an East Anglian Championship match between Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire aswell as the South East Combination league clash between Ipswich Town Ladies and C&K Basildon... oh and the Norfolk Division 2 clash involving Freethorpe LFC and Ealham Colney LFC you'd think I'd be all footballed out and in need of a rest.
However 7 days without a match proved to feel very odd indeed and I was looking forwards to checking out the fixtures for this Sunday and deciding the best place to be. As it was, something else fairly important happens in December and I needed to visit a certain shop... well garden centre near Norwich to make a sneaky purchase without the mother knowing... thus the South East Combination league clash fortunately rearranged between Norwich City Ladies and Cambridge WFC was perfect.
That being said my luck at actually attending a women's football match at Norwich City Ladies home ground Plantation Park hasn't been great having turned up there when they were actually away on the 1st occasion and getting rained off earlier this season on the eve of the East Anglian derby match with Ipswich it was a case of 3rd time lucky. Situated in Blofield east of Norwich along the A47 the ground is easy to find if you use your eyes instead of your sat nav. A decent little ground with good facilities... the game was on!
Norwich have been the victim of several postponements and rearranged fixtures which now see's them playing catch up in the South East Combination which for them I'm sure has been frustrating for both players and management alike as they were in a hot streak of form one of the results in that period being a 6-1 victory over todays visitors Cambridge back in September.
Now for the reverse fixture expected Norwich to be strong opponents for Cambridge whom having seen several times now knew this was a much changed starting line up with no Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker on the bench the attacking duties fell to lone stiker Nuala Wayne with midfielder Laura Bright pushed further forwards to try and support her. As kick off started the rain that was building got heavier and heavier and with what looked like a heavy pitch to start with conditions weren't great.
With a changed line up you wouldn't want to concede an early goal but this is exactly what Cambridge did as Norwich won a free kick 25 yards out and it was fired in Norwich defender Kate Parsons rose unmarked to head the ball down into the near post and make it 1-0. Conditions were poor with the rain pouring down and players were sliding in with challenges from both sides midfield was a congested area of the pitch with Cambridge battling hard to win the ball Norwich had the balance of the attack with the visitors unable to get the ball up to Nuala Wayne and make it stick although chances on goal were few and far between with shots at both end from long range going wide and Cambridge keeper Verity Crook being in the right position to gather when needed. At half time Norwich led 1-0
The rain had stopped late in the 1st half and with the teams out for the 2nd half it was Cambridge who started the brighter were looking to get their flank players moving forwards quicker to support their striker were working hard to win the ball back higher up the pitch had a shot which was stabbed straight at the on rushing keeper. With support at hand Nuala Wayne was a threat driving at Norwich's defence from a ball played over the top the no 9 was through on goal with the keeper rushing out there was only one option the early lob and it was taken with aplomb to make it 1-1.
Cambridge were on top during this period another chance fell to midfielder Bethan Jones who played the ball past her full back had to chase it pressure the keeper who kicked it against her the ball cannoning back but wide of goal. Bethan Jones was through again minutes later but a tangle of legs in the box saw both players injured and having to be replaced.
There was a lengthy delay and this seemed to be just what Norwich needed to organise themselves as barely minutes later they were able to break on the right Chelsea Garrett breaking through to strike from the edge of the box and past the keeper into the back of the net to restore the lead at 2-1 now they were dominant keeping Cambridge pinned back had a further 2 shots that were saved by Verity Crook and a further 2 sliced wide of goal.
Cambridge had a late corner to try and salvage a point but the goal mouth scramble saw Norwich clear the ball and the final whistle blew for them to claim the 3 points. Move onto 21 points some 11 points behind league leaders C&K Basildon but with some 5 games in hand.
In the other 2 SE Combination league games today the afforementioned C&K Basildon racked up a 9-0 victory at Luton Town Ladies and the leagues 3rd placed team Milton Keynes Dons LFC scored 5 at home against Brentwood Town LFC.
However 7 days without a match proved to feel very odd indeed and I was looking forwards to checking out the fixtures for this Sunday and deciding the best place to be. As it was, something else fairly important happens in December and I needed to visit a certain shop... well garden centre near Norwich to make a sneaky purchase without the mother knowing... thus the South East Combination league clash fortunately rearranged between Norwich City Ladies and Cambridge WFC was perfect.
That being said my luck at actually attending a women's football match at Norwich City Ladies home ground Plantation Park hasn't been great having turned up there when they were actually away on the 1st occasion and getting rained off earlier this season on the eve of the East Anglian derby match with Ipswich it was a case of 3rd time lucky. Situated in Blofield east of Norwich along the A47 the ground is easy to find if you use your eyes instead of your sat nav. A decent little ground with good facilities... the game was on!
Norwich have been the victim of several postponements and rearranged fixtures which now see's them playing catch up in the South East Combination which for them I'm sure has been frustrating for both players and management alike as they were in a hot streak of form one of the results in that period being a 6-1 victory over todays visitors Cambridge back in September.
Now for the reverse fixture expected Norwich to be strong opponents for Cambridge whom having seen several times now knew this was a much changed starting line up with no Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker on the bench the attacking duties fell to lone stiker Nuala Wayne with midfielder Laura Bright pushed further forwards to try and support her. As kick off started the rain that was building got heavier and heavier and with what looked like a heavy pitch to start with conditions weren't great.
With a changed line up you wouldn't want to concede an early goal but this is exactly what Cambridge did as Norwich won a free kick 25 yards out and it was fired in Norwich defender Kate Parsons rose unmarked to head the ball down into the near post and make it 1-0. Conditions were poor with the rain pouring down and players were sliding in with challenges from both sides midfield was a congested area of the pitch with Cambridge battling hard to win the ball Norwich had the balance of the attack with the visitors unable to get the ball up to Nuala Wayne and make it stick although chances on goal were few and far between with shots at both end from long range going wide and Cambridge keeper Verity Crook being in the right position to gather when needed. At half time Norwich led 1-0
The rain had stopped late in the 1st half and with the teams out for the 2nd half it was Cambridge who started the brighter were looking to get their flank players moving forwards quicker to support their striker were working hard to win the ball back higher up the pitch had a shot which was stabbed straight at the on rushing keeper. With support at hand Nuala Wayne was a threat driving at Norwich's defence from a ball played over the top the no 9 was through on goal with the keeper rushing out there was only one option the early lob and it was taken with aplomb to make it 1-1.
Cambridge were on top during this period another chance fell to midfielder Bethan Jones who played the ball past her full back had to chase it pressure the keeper who kicked it against her the ball cannoning back but wide of goal. Bethan Jones was through again minutes later but a tangle of legs in the box saw both players injured and having to be replaced.
There was a lengthy delay and this seemed to be just what Norwich needed to organise themselves as barely minutes later they were able to break on the right Chelsea Garrett breaking through to strike from the edge of the box and past the keeper into the back of the net to restore the lead at 2-1 now they were dominant keeping Cambridge pinned back had a further 2 shots that were saved by Verity Crook and a further 2 sliced wide of goal.
Cambridge had a late corner to try and salvage a point but the goal mouth scramble saw Norwich clear the ball and the final whistle blew for them to claim the 3 points. Move onto 21 points some 11 points behind league leaders C&K Basildon but with some 5 games in hand.
In the other 2 SE Combination league games today the afforementioned C&K Basildon racked up a 9-0 victory at Luton Town Ladies and the leagues 3rd placed team Milton Keynes Dons LFC scored 5 at home against Brentwood Town LFC.
Sunday 8 December 2013
Penalty Heartache For Young Lionesses
It was heartache for the England Women's U17's in the end as they lost their 3rd place play off match against Italy at Burton Albion.
Having followed the women's U17 team all through the tournament it was only right I travel back over to Burton Albion for the 3rd time in 6 days to see if they could win their 3rd place play off game with Italy. Now this journey went alot more smoothly than the previous 2 as myself and the sat nav found away to go round Nottingham instead of through it. As I mentioned in my previous post there was still alot to play for the winner claiming a place at next years World Cup, to reach the last 4 in a major tournament is no small achievement in itself.
At Telford in the opening game England had worked hard and were unlucky to concede defeat to Italy being 2 pretty evenly matched sides Italy's style of play suited England meant it would be a strongly fought contest with not many goals in it. Thus it turned out as the game ebbed and flowed from one end to the other without a great deal of clear chances being created. Italy were able to get more bodies in and around the box and for much of the 1st half striker Chloe Kelly was an isolated figure up front.
1st half ending 0-0 England made a change bringing on Evie Clarke for Atlanta Primus which allowed Lucy Porter to better support Chloe Kelly England had a dominant spell and did score but much to the crowds dismay the flag was raised and it was ruled out. As the half wore on the team's were getting nervous not wanting to commit too many forward for fear of conceding so it ended 0-0 and went straight to penalties. I hate penalties.
What do you do it is a lottery England had 2 saved as Italy took a 3-1 advantage, England pulled it back to 3-3 as Kirstie Levell saved 1 but Italy needed to score 1 more to claim victory and they did to leave England heartbroken. Congratulations to Italy who join the finalists Germany and Spain at next years World Cup.
Below is a small tribute to our England U17's of whom I'm sure we will be hearing alot about in the future...
There was was further penalty heartache in the Final itself later that day as England's opponent at Thursday's semi-final were beaten by Germany in another shoot out. This one somewhat harsher than England's defeat as Spain had dominated the final for 75mins taking the lead early on and creating a few clear cut chances to bury the game. They didn't however and the German's hung in there a shot turning into a cross as the player slipped was slotted home with minutes to spare and leave Spain rattled. Very tough on the Spainards they have played some great football and will be a serious contender come the World Cup and perhaps Spain will soon become a more serious force at senior level they certainly will if their youth players are anything to go by but then so will many of the other nations who took part in this tournament. That being said Germany are the champions I congratulate them.
This has been a great tournament a good showcase of female footballing talent from all the nations I have seen play and so I have been told aswell about the teams I didn't see play. The skill level has been of a high standard the team work first rate and the experience I'm sure of huge benefit to all the players going forwards in their careers a young group who I will follow with interest.
Having followed the women's U17 team all through the tournament it was only right I travel back over to Burton Albion for the 3rd time in 6 days to see if they could win their 3rd place play off game with Italy. Now this journey went alot more smoothly than the previous 2 as myself and the sat nav found away to go round Nottingham instead of through it. As I mentioned in my previous post there was still alot to play for the winner claiming a place at next years World Cup, to reach the last 4 in a major tournament is no small achievement in itself.
At Telford in the opening game England had worked hard and were unlucky to concede defeat to Italy being 2 pretty evenly matched sides Italy's style of play suited England meant it would be a strongly fought contest with not many goals in it. Thus it turned out as the game ebbed and flowed from one end to the other without a great deal of clear chances being created. Italy were able to get more bodies in and around the box and for much of the 1st half striker Chloe Kelly was an isolated figure up front.
1st half ending 0-0 England made a change bringing on Evie Clarke for Atlanta Primus which allowed Lucy Porter to better support Chloe Kelly England had a dominant spell and did score but much to the crowds dismay the flag was raised and it was ruled out. As the half wore on the team's were getting nervous not wanting to commit too many forward for fear of conceding so it ended 0-0 and went straight to penalties. I hate penalties.
What do you do it is a lottery England had 2 saved as Italy took a 3-1 advantage, England pulled it back to 3-3 as Kirstie Levell saved 1 but Italy needed to score 1 more to claim victory and they did to leave England heartbroken. Congratulations to Italy who join the finalists Germany and Spain at next years World Cup.
Below is a small tribute to our England U17's of whom I'm sure we will be hearing alot about in the future...
There was was further penalty heartache in the Final itself later that day as England's opponent at Thursday's semi-final were beaten by Germany in another shoot out. This one somewhat harsher than England's defeat as Spain had dominated the final for 75mins taking the lead early on and creating a few clear cut chances to bury the game. They didn't however and the German's hung in there a shot turning into a cross as the player slipped was slotted home with minutes to spare and leave Spain rattled. Very tough on the Spainards they have played some great football and will be a serious contender come the World Cup and perhaps Spain will soon become a more serious force at senior level they certainly will if their youth players are anything to go by but then so will many of the other nations who took part in this tournament. That being said Germany are the champions I congratulate them.
This has been a great tournament a good showcase of female footballing talent from all the nations I have seen play and so I have been told aswell about the teams I didn't see play. The skill level has been of a high standard the team work first rate and the experience I'm sure of huge benefit to all the players going forwards in their careers a young group who I will follow with interest.
Thursday 5 December 2013
England U17's lose semi final
As the storm built up along the east coast I headed out of Norfolk and back to Burton Albion's Pirelli stadium the venue just three days earlier to England Women's U17 strong 6-1 over Portugal to see them take on Spain in the UEFA U17's Championship semi-final. Having racked up a 4-0 win over Germany in their final group game both teams would have been high of confidence going into the game.
It was Spain who started the stronger spreading the ball about the pitch quickly and driving at England's centre backs Captain Leah Williamson was called into action several times the clear the lines Spain struck the cross bar from a corner and England couldn't get an attack going space was available on the flanks and left back Jemma Purfield did her best to support Atlanta Primus. It was Spain though that took the lead a cross from the right and Andrea Sanchez was on hand to make it 1-0 and capitalise on Spain's early dominance. 4 minutes later the England post was rattled again.
England got more pocession as the half wore on creating chances as Spain sat back a little Williamson with the best as she tried to control an Primus free kick floated into the box. At the break it was 1-0 to Spain.
England needed a strong start to the 2nd half however it was Spain who had the ball on the roof of the net. England with a driving run then shot straight at the keeper Spain broke quickly and as the ball was cleared out of England's box it came to Maria del Pilar Garrote who rifled her shot towards goal Kirstie Levell dived but only in dispair as the ball went past her and Spain took control going 2-0 ahead.
England needed a goal badly and Ellie Wilkinson was brought on, Leah Williamson was pushed into midfield with Rebacca Lloyd moving into the back line which caused a little communication problem as Spain drove into the box and almost scored Levell gathering at the players feet. England couldn't get an attack going Williamson was magnicient as she tried to make thing's happen and with England pushing on Spain could take advantage of the space left behind on 79 mins Sanchez scored her 2nd of the game and it was all over Spain the deserved winners were through to Sunday's final and having already beaten Germany who won the early semi final 1-0 over Italy they will I think be strong favourites.
As for England it is a blow they will be hugely disappointed however they have to pick themselves up still alot to play for on Sunday they go into a 3rd place play off with Italy at Burton again (I'm not looking forwards to that journey mind) as the winner will join the 2 finalists at the next World Cup and having seen England lose narrowly to Italy in the 1st group game there is no doubt they can achieve this and will be there cheering them on...
It was Spain who started the stronger spreading the ball about the pitch quickly and driving at England's centre backs Captain Leah Williamson was called into action several times the clear the lines Spain struck the cross bar from a corner and England couldn't get an attack going space was available on the flanks and left back Jemma Purfield did her best to support Atlanta Primus. It was Spain though that took the lead a cross from the right and Andrea Sanchez was on hand to make it 1-0 and capitalise on Spain's early dominance. 4 minutes later the England post was rattled again.
England got more pocession as the half wore on creating chances as Spain sat back a little Williamson with the best as she tried to control an Primus free kick floated into the box. At the break it was 1-0 to Spain.
England needed a strong start to the 2nd half however it was Spain who had the ball on the roof of the net. England with a driving run then shot straight at the keeper Spain broke quickly and as the ball was cleared out of England's box it came to Maria del Pilar Garrote who rifled her shot towards goal Kirstie Levell dived but only in dispair as the ball went past her and Spain took control going 2-0 ahead.
England needed a goal badly and Ellie Wilkinson was brought on, Leah Williamson was pushed into midfield with Rebacca Lloyd moving into the back line which caused a little communication problem as Spain drove into the box and almost scored Levell gathering at the players feet. England couldn't get an attack going Williamson was magnicient as she tried to make thing's happen and with England pushing on Spain could take advantage of the space left behind on 79 mins Sanchez scored her 2nd of the game and it was all over Spain the deserved winners were through to Sunday's final and having already beaten Germany who won the early semi final 1-0 over Italy they will I think be strong favourites.
As for England it is a blow they will be hugely disappointed however they have to pick themselves up still alot to play for on Sunday they go into a 3rd place play off with Italy at Burton again (I'm not looking forwards to that journey mind) as the winner will join the 2 finalists at the next World Cup and having seen England lose narrowly to Italy in the 1st group game there is no doubt they can achieve this and will be there cheering them on...
Monday 2 December 2013
UEFA Women's U17 Championship - England progress
Last Tuesday saw the start of UEFA's Women's U17 Championships which saw England in competition with 7 other qualifying nations. Having enjoyed watching a few of the Women's U19 Euro matches in the summer I really wanted to go see what the next age group coming through had to offer so booked the tickets to go and see all of England's group matches.
The 4 venues chosen to host these Championship matches were, Chesterfield FC, Burton Albion, Hinckley & AFC Telford. The 8 participating nations were drawn into 2 groups of 4 with the top 2 in each progressing through to the semi-final stage. England were drawn in Group A along side Italy, Austria & Portugal. Group B was made up of Germany, France, Spain & Scotland.
England's 1st game was against Italy on 26th Nov at AFC Telford taking the day off work for a 12:30 kick off AFC Telford is a nice modern stadium with one large stand running the length of the pitch, terracing either end packed with school children and the England band in town it was a great atmosphere the kids loving it making plenty of noise as the two teams put on a very good display of flowing high tempo football that was end to end (very un-Italian like) without really creating any clear cut chances on goal in fact it was the defenders who stood out the most England Captain Leah Williamson and her defensive partner Gabriel George played very well the game was heading for a 0-0 probably a fair result too however football's not always fair and Italy were making some good runs into the box late on 1 shot took a deflection and Italy claimed the win with just minutes to play. Austria and Portugal played out a 0-0 which was as far as England were concerned a great result.
In Group B Germany won despite a strong Scotland fightback 4-2 with Spain beating France 2-0.
Onto Friday 29th Nov and group game no 2 this time a 7:00 kick off at Chesterfield's Proact Stadium a new built stadium and very impressive. England's opponents Austria, after an opening day defeat England really needed a win. A Friday night with no school parties to attend the crowd was never the less in excess of 2000 turned out along with the band to watch the same England side that had started against Italy struggle early on to cope with Austria's flank players driving into the box and it was from one of these Austria scored the opening goal. England needed a response Ashleigh Plumptre coming in from the left was causing Austria problems and it was she who scored the equaliser to make it 1-1 at the break.
The 2nd half was totally different England came out the stronger were the ones asking Austria questions and it was Lucy Porter whom had just come on who tucked the ball home from an inch perfect cross from midfielder Keira Walsh from the edge of the box and England won 2-1. Italy clinched their place in the semi's beating Portugal 2-0. In Group B Scotland kept their hopes of qualifying alive with a 0-0 draw with Spain whilst Germany beat France 4-0 to reach the semi's themselves.
Now onto today Monday 2nd December and the final round of group matches. Up against Portugal a 12:30 kick off at Burton Albion the most straight forwards of my 3 journeys so far so you would think it was a total nightmare hold ups everywhere and the less said about road 'improvements' in Nottingham the better still got there just in time loads of kids again and the band they really know how to get a crowd going, so long as you're not sitting next to the drummer. A draw would see England progress to the semi's however a Portugal win would see them qualify at our expense so what England really needed was an early goal and on 11 mins midfielder Mollie Rouse rifled a shot into the back of the net England were dominant with Atlanta Primus (daughter of ex premier league footballer Linvoy Primus) making her 1st start in the tournament on the left England were dominant a 2nd goal was scored through no 7 Evie Clarke then a 3rd minutes later this time headed in by Atlanta Primus. On the stroke of half time Portugal pulled a goal back to give them hope through Carolina Ferreira. The 2nd half however was again dominated by England, Portugal could not cope with their strength and movement and the 4th goal was scored by striker Chloe Kelly. The Portuguese keeper Catarina Barradas brought down an England player in the box and was sent off on 50 mins her replacement unable to save the penalty taken by England's right back Alice Hassall. The final goal England's 6th was headed in from a corner by Lucy Porter and England reached the semi finals in emphatic fashion with what will be huge confidence and belief. In the other match Austria got a 1-0 over Italy and finish 3rd in the group. In Group B Scotland needed a win coupled with a Spanish defeat to go through sadly they were beaten 1-0 by France, whilst Spain stole top spot in the group from Germany by beating them 4-0.
Thus the semi-final line up will be Italy v Germany & Spain v England two fascinating matches the final will be a hard one to call I'm certainly not going to do so. I have been very impressed with the standard of football on display it has been a very good advert for the women's game especially for the young children who have attended the games the venues have been very good and the attendences for the games I've been to excellent. Roll on the semi-finals..
The 4 venues chosen to host these Championship matches were, Chesterfield FC, Burton Albion, Hinckley & AFC Telford. The 8 participating nations were drawn into 2 groups of 4 with the top 2 in each progressing through to the semi-final stage. England were drawn in Group A along side Italy, Austria & Portugal. Group B was made up of Germany, France, Spain & Scotland.
England's 1st game was against Italy on 26th Nov at AFC Telford taking the day off work for a 12:30 kick off AFC Telford is a nice modern stadium with one large stand running the length of the pitch, terracing either end packed with school children and the England band in town it was a great atmosphere the kids loving it making plenty of noise as the two teams put on a very good display of flowing high tempo football that was end to end (very un-Italian like) without really creating any clear cut chances on goal in fact it was the defenders who stood out the most England Captain Leah Williamson and her defensive partner Gabriel George played very well the game was heading for a 0-0 probably a fair result too however football's not always fair and Italy were making some good runs into the box late on 1 shot took a deflection and Italy claimed the win with just minutes to play. Austria and Portugal played out a 0-0 which was as far as England were concerned a great result.
In Group B Germany won despite a strong Scotland fightback 4-2 with Spain beating France 2-0.
Onto Friday 29th Nov and group game no 2 this time a 7:00 kick off at Chesterfield's Proact Stadium a new built stadium and very impressive. England's opponents Austria, after an opening day defeat England really needed a win. A Friday night with no school parties to attend the crowd was never the less in excess of 2000 turned out along with the band to watch the same England side that had started against Italy struggle early on to cope with Austria's flank players driving into the box and it was from one of these Austria scored the opening goal. England needed a response Ashleigh Plumptre coming in from the left was causing Austria problems and it was she who scored the equaliser to make it 1-1 at the break.
The 2nd half was totally different England came out the stronger were the ones asking Austria questions and it was Lucy Porter whom had just come on who tucked the ball home from an inch perfect cross from midfielder Keira Walsh from the edge of the box and England won 2-1. Italy clinched their place in the semi's beating Portugal 2-0. In Group B Scotland kept their hopes of qualifying alive with a 0-0 draw with Spain whilst Germany beat France 4-0 to reach the semi's themselves.
Now onto today Monday 2nd December and the final round of group matches. Up against Portugal a 12:30 kick off at Burton Albion the most straight forwards of my 3 journeys so far so you would think it was a total nightmare hold ups everywhere and the less said about road 'improvements' in Nottingham the better still got there just in time loads of kids again and the band they really know how to get a crowd going, so long as you're not sitting next to the drummer. A draw would see England progress to the semi's however a Portugal win would see them qualify at our expense so what England really needed was an early goal and on 11 mins midfielder Mollie Rouse rifled a shot into the back of the net England were dominant with Atlanta Primus (daughter of ex premier league footballer Linvoy Primus) making her 1st start in the tournament on the left England were dominant a 2nd goal was scored through no 7 Evie Clarke then a 3rd minutes later this time headed in by Atlanta Primus. On the stroke of half time Portugal pulled a goal back to give them hope through Carolina Ferreira. The 2nd half however was again dominated by England, Portugal could not cope with their strength and movement and the 4th goal was scored by striker Chloe Kelly. The Portuguese keeper Catarina Barradas brought down an England player in the box and was sent off on 50 mins her replacement unable to save the penalty taken by England's right back Alice Hassall. The final goal England's 6th was headed in from a corner by Lucy Porter and England reached the semi finals in emphatic fashion with what will be huge confidence and belief. In the other match Austria got a 1-0 over Italy and finish 3rd in the group. In Group B Scotland needed a win coupled with a Spanish defeat to go through sadly they were beaten 1-0 by France, whilst Spain stole top spot in the group from Germany by beating them 4-0.
Thus the semi-final line up will be Italy v Germany & Spain v England two fascinating matches the final will be a hard one to call I'm certainly not going to do so. I have been very impressed with the standard of football on display it has been a very good advert for the women's game especially for the young children who have attended the games the venues have been very good and the attendences for the games I've been to excellent. Roll on the semi-finals..
Sunday 10 November 2013
Champions League & Closer To Home
The advantage of not having a club to support is that there are just so many other games of women's football out there to go and see and dare I say I quite like being a neutral spectator (well I try and stay neutral) This weekend saw me attending two very different matches in terms of the women's football spectrum 1st up on Saturday (9th) the UEFA Women's Champions League tie Arsenal Ladies v Glasgow City and then on Sunday (10th) a game much closer to home back in my native Norfolk in the Norfolk Division One between Thorpe United Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies.
Best start with that Champions League tie a Battle of Britain so to speak. An intruging encounter it would be interesting to see the up until this year, regular title winners of England match up against Scotland's reigning champions. Arsenal have a formidable squad of players let alone 1st 11. Glasgow's players I knew very little about except they had captured everyone's attention by bringing in Jess Fishlock from Seattle Reign FC. The Welsh playmaker was someone I was keen to see in action again after her time at Bristol as were my fellow travelling companion's, 2 of us interested neutrals, the other very much flying the Scottish flag with pride.
The venue The Hive home of Barnet FC same venue as the recent Coninental Cup Final was played as Arsenal were unable to use there usual home at Borehamwood. The Hive is a nice, new, modern stadium but one of the most disorganised places I have ever been too. On the two occasions I've been there far too much is channeled through the bar, carpark tokens, food orders (we were sent there to buy tickets too) these though require minor tweaks and I'm sure when the men are in town and everywhere is open it runs much better. Their burgers however are superb meaty cooked to order affairs that go down a treat when you haven't eaten anything since 5:30 in the morning.
Game time, Arsenal wouldn't change anything so it was a question of how Glasgow would line up and early on it looked very much a 4,5,1 formation with Jess Fishlock playing out wide on the right. Looked a defensive set up and as Arsenal were allowed to pass it around there back 4 with ease it proved the case. Pressure was building from the start took the home side just 14 minutes to register the 1st goal from a corner a header from Steph Houghton. Just what the home team needed too having watched Arsenal several times if they score early they settle which is not what the opposition want.
Playing 4,5,1 the wide players need to get to the lone striker quickly if she can hold up the ball but Glasgow couldn't get out were tentative in doing so too for fear of being caught on the break. Mid way through the 1st half came an amusing moment most of you will know by now women's football had it's own 'ghost goal' as Jordan Nobbs took a shot from the edge of the box that flashed wide of the post at least that's what the as yet undetermined number of supporters saw. The Glasgow keeper took the goal kick and play carried on then the PA announcer came on and said, "With Arsenal's 2nd goal it's Ellen White!" now I know it's a partizan crowd but everyone was bemused by that one if he's the regualar guy I think the FA need to look into just how many goals Barnet have 'really' scored this season.
He'd given the 1st goal to White too. The 2nd goal did come as half time approached through Danielle Carter and going in at 2-0 at the break Arsenal were comfortable for their lead. Glasgow were battling hard but couldn't get either flank player free to support there striker were keeping a solid shape in defence it was however too deep.
The 2nd half started pretty much as the 1st had left off Lee Alexander the Glasgow keeper pulled of some fantastic saves to deny Arsenal. The game got a little heated with some poor tackling from both sides. On 63 minutes a good move from Arsenal saw an Ellen White header looping towards goal in a vain attempt to clear the final touch came off a Glasgow head but the goal was accredited to White, her 1st of the game (or hat-trick depending on who you were listening too).
Now 3-0 Arsenal brought on Gemma Davison for White, she was soon followed by the long awaited return to action for Kelly Smith it was good to see her back on the pitch. Jess Fishlock was doing her utmost the bring Glasgow back into the tie but chances were few a Fishlock header wide of the post being the Scottish teams best chance. The game ended 3-0 to Arsenal a comfortable lead going into the 2nd leg this coming Wednesday in Glasgow they will be confident of progressing. It will so I've been told and believe a different game in Scotland to have a chance Glasgow have to score early will have to take chances huge ask against Arsenal who will rightly so fancy their chances in this competition. It was a pleasure to watch.
Well then onto part 2 of this footballing weekend and a game I was very much looking forwards too. Dropping several tiers down the league ladder to counties level the Norfolk Division One meeting between Thorpe United LFC & Wymondham Town Ladies. It was a clash between the top 2 sides in the league both sitting on 18pts having played 8 & 7 respectfully. Before I'd even got to the ground however the 1st battle was won between me & my sat nav. I'm a Norfolk boy I know Thorpe St Andrew is on the 'other' side of Norwich so when the sat nav wanted me to peel off the A47 and go through the city I ignored it until I got to where I wanted to turn off, saved 8 mins on the journey time thank you very much most of the time she's right so I have to savour these moments, the sat nav has after all got me out of a few muddles.
Back to the football my 1st proper taste of football at this level I'd seen Thorpe United LFC play before against Norwich in the Norfolk Women's Cup they were formed back in 2008 and had had quite alot of success as a team reaching the Eastern Premier League set up. Now back in the Norfolk league set up they had started the season very well having played 8 won 6 & lost 2. However their opponents today had played 7 won 6 & lost once, both 6pts clear of their nearest rivals. Thorpe United LFC play at Dussindale Park a sporting complex on the outskirts of Norwich. At this level of football the FA provides a referee the clubs their linespersons. The pitch on a playing field open to the public (and their dogs) Roll on roll off subs too.
With all these in place it would be interesting to see what type of game we would have. Women's football is perhaps with the exception of International level played at a high tempo and this game was no different Thorpe playing in there kit of pink shirts & socks with black shorts & Wymondham in there red shirts & black shorts and socks got the game under way. It was the visitors who created the early pressure with a clutch of half chances and on 9 mins from a well delivered corner Wymondham scored the opening goal through Laura Hammerton. Thorpe were looking to play the ball over the top to their strikers however Wymondham's defenders recovered well to stifle any threat when Thorpe did break through Wymondham's vocal keeper was quick off her line to clear the danger.
At half time it was 1-0 and a pretty even contest. The changing area far removed from the pitch the players stayed out during the half time interval. It was Wymondham who came out attacking the stronger creating 2 clear chances both going wide of the post. It was 2-0 soon though as a Thorpe failed to clear the ball from the edge of the box then the keeper failed to gather as Wymondham's attacker Georgina Knight was on hand to bundle the ball over the line. Thorpe struggled to retain pocession with Wymondham keeping 1 up front and dominating midfield.
Out of nothing Thorpe won a penalty however the referee indicating a handball/high foot in the box and Thorpe's No 11 Becky Russell netted her team a life line. Both teams had chances blaze wide then before the game was stopped by an unusual incident a player went down and everyone thought she was injured the first-aid bag and water were rushed onto the pitch but just a plastic bag was needed to remove an recently discovered dog poo! (one word dog owners "responsibility").
2-1 game one Thorpe were pushing hard to get the equalizer the 4th goal was Wymondham's though as a cross/shot was fizzed in from the right of the box, going in the final touch was off a Thorpe body. Wymondham held on to claim the points worked hard and looked an organized tidy side too as they move above Thorpe into top spot in the league these 2 teams will I think be challenging for the title all the way and it will be fasinating to see who comes out on top.
Best start with that Champions League tie a Battle of Britain so to speak. An intruging encounter it would be interesting to see the up until this year, regular title winners of England match up against Scotland's reigning champions. Arsenal have a formidable squad of players let alone 1st 11. Glasgow's players I knew very little about except they had captured everyone's attention by bringing in Jess Fishlock from Seattle Reign FC. The Welsh playmaker was someone I was keen to see in action again after her time at Bristol as were my fellow travelling companion's, 2 of us interested neutrals, the other very much flying the Scottish flag with pride.
The venue The Hive home of Barnet FC same venue as the recent Coninental Cup Final was played as Arsenal were unable to use there usual home at Borehamwood. The Hive is a nice, new, modern stadium but one of the most disorganised places I have ever been too. On the two occasions I've been there far too much is channeled through the bar, carpark tokens, food orders (we were sent there to buy tickets too) these though require minor tweaks and I'm sure when the men are in town and everywhere is open it runs much better. Their burgers however are superb meaty cooked to order affairs that go down a treat when you haven't eaten anything since 5:30 in the morning.
Game time, Arsenal wouldn't change anything so it was a question of how Glasgow would line up and early on it looked very much a 4,5,1 formation with Jess Fishlock playing out wide on the right. Looked a defensive set up and as Arsenal were allowed to pass it around there back 4 with ease it proved the case. Pressure was building from the start took the home side just 14 minutes to register the 1st goal from a corner a header from Steph Houghton. Just what the home team needed too having watched Arsenal several times if they score early they settle which is not what the opposition want.
Playing 4,5,1 the wide players need to get to the lone striker quickly if she can hold up the ball but Glasgow couldn't get out were tentative in doing so too for fear of being caught on the break. Mid way through the 1st half came an amusing moment most of you will know by now women's football had it's own 'ghost goal' as Jordan Nobbs took a shot from the edge of the box that flashed wide of the post at least that's what the as yet undetermined number of supporters saw. The Glasgow keeper took the goal kick and play carried on then the PA announcer came on and said, "With Arsenal's 2nd goal it's Ellen White!" now I know it's a partizan crowd but everyone was bemused by that one if he's the regualar guy I think the FA need to look into just how many goals Barnet have 'really' scored this season.
He'd given the 1st goal to White too. The 2nd goal did come as half time approached through Danielle Carter and going in at 2-0 at the break Arsenal were comfortable for their lead. Glasgow were battling hard but couldn't get either flank player free to support there striker were keeping a solid shape in defence it was however too deep.
The 2nd half started pretty much as the 1st had left off Lee Alexander the Glasgow keeper pulled of some fantastic saves to deny Arsenal. The game got a little heated with some poor tackling from both sides. On 63 minutes a good move from Arsenal saw an Ellen White header looping towards goal in a vain attempt to clear the final touch came off a Glasgow head but the goal was accredited to White, her 1st of the game (or hat-trick depending on who you were listening too).
Now 3-0 Arsenal brought on Gemma Davison for White, she was soon followed by the long awaited return to action for Kelly Smith it was good to see her back on the pitch. Jess Fishlock was doing her utmost the bring Glasgow back into the tie but chances were few a Fishlock header wide of the post being the Scottish teams best chance. The game ended 3-0 to Arsenal a comfortable lead going into the 2nd leg this coming Wednesday in Glasgow they will be confident of progressing. It will so I've been told and believe a different game in Scotland to have a chance Glasgow have to score early will have to take chances huge ask against Arsenal who will rightly so fancy their chances in this competition. It was a pleasure to watch.
Well then onto part 2 of this footballing weekend and a game I was very much looking forwards too. Dropping several tiers down the league ladder to counties level the Norfolk Division One meeting between Thorpe United LFC & Wymondham Town Ladies. It was a clash between the top 2 sides in the league both sitting on 18pts having played 8 & 7 respectfully. Before I'd even got to the ground however the 1st battle was won between me & my sat nav. I'm a Norfolk boy I know Thorpe St Andrew is on the 'other' side of Norwich so when the sat nav wanted me to peel off the A47 and go through the city I ignored it until I got to where I wanted to turn off, saved 8 mins on the journey time thank you very much most of the time she's right so I have to savour these moments, the sat nav has after all got me out of a few muddles.
Back to the football my 1st proper taste of football at this level I'd seen Thorpe United LFC play before against Norwich in the Norfolk Women's Cup they were formed back in 2008 and had had quite alot of success as a team reaching the Eastern Premier League set up. Now back in the Norfolk league set up they had started the season very well having played 8 won 6 & lost 2. However their opponents today had played 7 won 6 & lost once, both 6pts clear of their nearest rivals. Thorpe United LFC play at Dussindale Park a sporting complex on the outskirts of Norwich. At this level of football the FA provides a referee the clubs their linespersons. The pitch on a playing field open to the public (and their dogs) Roll on roll off subs too.
With all these in place it would be interesting to see what type of game we would have. Women's football is perhaps with the exception of International level played at a high tempo and this game was no different Thorpe playing in there kit of pink shirts & socks with black shorts & Wymondham in there red shirts & black shorts and socks got the game under way. It was the visitors who created the early pressure with a clutch of half chances and on 9 mins from a well delivered corner Wymondham scored the opening goal through Laura Hammerton. Thorpe were looking to play the ball over the top to their strikers however Wymondham's defenders recovered well to stifle any threat when Thorpe did break through Wymondham's vocal keeper was quick off her line to clear the danger.
At half time it was 1-0 and a pretty even contest. The changing area far removed from the pitch the players stayed out during the half time interval. It was Wymondham who came out attacking the stronger creating 2 clear chances both going wide of the post. It was 2-0 soon though as a Thorpe failed to clear the ball from the edge of the box then the keeper failed to gather as Wymondham's attacker Georgina Knight was on hand to bundle the ball over the line. Thorpe struggled to retain pocession with Wymondham keeping 1 up front and dominating midfield.
Out of nothing Thorpe won a penalty however the referee indicating a handball/high foot in the box and Thorpe's No 11 Becky Russell netted her team a life line. Both teams had chances blaze wide then before the game was stopped by an unusual incident a player went down and everyone thought she was injured the first-aid bag and water were rushed onto the pitch but just a plastic bag was needed to remove an recently discovered dog poo! (one word dog owners "responsibility").
2-1 game one Thorpe were pushing hard to get the equalizer the 4th goal was Wymondham's though as a cross/shot was fizzed in from the right of the box, going in the final touch was off a Thorpe body. Wymondham held on to claim the points worked hard and looked an organized tidy side too as they move above Thorpe into top spot in the league these 2 teams will I think be challenging for the title all the way and it will be fasinating to see who comes out on top.
Sunday 3 November 2013
Women's FA Cup 3rd round qualifier Cambridge v Lowestoft
This week ends action saw me take in a match from the Women's FA Cup 3rd qualifying round. Some 44 ties in total and some interesting match ups too. My game of choice was Cambridge WFC v Lowestoft Town Ladies (South East Combination v Eastern Premier League). An intriguing game on paper the teams a league a part, would the teams be closely matched? Could there be an upset? Or would the higher league team and favourite prove too strong for their opponents? This is the beauty of a cup tie you just never know.
I've seen Cambridge play a handful of times this season and so far in the South East Combination league they have blown hot and cold in games a young squad with plenty of talent their problem at times has been getting their strikers on the ball. Lowestoft actually have a pedigree in the FA Cup, winners of the competition back in 1982. This Lowestoft team however is far removed from that history having been formed just 3 years ago the team has enjoyed successive promotions to reach the Eastern Premier League one tier behind todays opponents.
Sunshine and black clouds, taking cover or needing sunglasses were the questions before kick-off as the teams came out onto the pitch Cambridge in their usual sky blue kit and Lowestoft kitted out in vibrant pink shirts and socks with purple shorts. The last thing the 'underdog' wants to do is concede an early goal, but that was exactly what Lowestoft did as the ball was played through to Cambridge striker Laura Baker and she duly slotted the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0 after just a minutes play. A massive boost for the home team.
Lowestoft didn't let this early setback affect them as they set about trying to restore parity have a young and talented squad of their own who worked hard to win the ball. With Amber Rowland playing in midfield and wide player Natasha Thomas being two stand out players, it was to the latter on the right flank they tried to get the ball to as often as possible her crosses however coming to nothing. Cambridge had a couple of shots off target but it was pretty even Cambridge were however getting there strikers onto the ball an on 32 mins Laura Baker was in again to make it 2-0. The home side had a couple of opportunities to put the game out of sight in the 1st half but both opportunities went wide.
Credit to Lowestoft there heads didn't drop they keep going and got a piece of luck on the stroke of half time as Cambridge keeper Liz Pamplin rushed out of her box to clear the ball and struck it against the on rushing Lowestoft player the ball could have gone anywhere but it looped up back over the keeper and dropped into the empty net and as the ref blew for half time it was still very much game on.
The 2nd half started off pretty much where the 1st left off both teams had shot's off the mark before Cambridge had a player tripped in the box, a penalty was given and on 57 mins Laura Baker completed her hat-trick as she slid the penalty home. The home side were in control now Lowestoft had to take risks push forwards tackles were flying in Lowestoft had a chance through Amber Rowland but a goal line scramble saw Cambridge clear their lines. The 4th goal came on the 70 min this time the scorer was Sophie Thompson.
The game continued to be hotly contested despite the scoreline with Cambridge not letting their foot off the pedal nor Lowestoft letting their heads drop they had to push on however and space was appearing at the back Cambridge won the ball deep on the left and the ball was fed across the six yard box evading everyone on 90 mins except Hannah Bodily who slotted the ball into the net to seal a 5-1 victory and with in progress into the FA Cup 1st round proper. An entertaining game to watch involving two commited sides.
I've seen Cambridge play a handful of times this season and so far in the South East Combination league they have blown hot and cold in games a young squad with plenty of talent their problem at times has been getting their strikers on the ball. Lowestoft actually have a pedigree in the FA Cup, winners of the competition back in 1982. This Lowestoft team however is far removed from that history having been formed just 3 years ago the team has enjoyed successive promotions to reach the Eastern Premier League one tier behind todays opponents.
Sunshine and black clouds, taking cover or needing sunglasses were the questions before kick-off as the teams came out onto the pitch Cambridge in their usual sky blue kit and Lowestoft kitted out in vibrant pink shirts and socks with purple shorts. The last thing the 'underdog' wants to do is concede an early goal, but that was exactly what Lowestoft did as the ball was played through to Cambridge striker Laura Baker and she duly slotted the ball past the keeper to make it 1-0 after just a minutes play. A massive boost for the home team.
Lowestoft didn't let this early setback affect them as they set about trying to restore parity have a young and talented squad of their own who worked hard to win the ball. With Amber Rowland playing in midfield and wide player Natasha Thomas being two stand out players, it was to the latter on the right flank they tried to get the ball to as often as possible her crosses however coming to nothing. Cambridge had a couple of shots off target but it was pretty even Cambridge were however getting there strikers onto the ball an on 32 mins Laura Baker was in again to make it 2-0. The home side had a couple of opportunities to put the game out of sight in the 1st half but both opportunities went wide.
Credit to Lowestoft there heads didn't drop they keep going and got a piece of luck on the stroke of half time as Cambridge keeper Liz Pamplin rushed out of her box to clear the ball and struck it against the on rushing Lowestoft player the ball could have gone anywhere but it looped up back over the keeper and dropped into the empty net and as the ref blew for half time it was still very much game on.
The 2nd half started off pretty much where the 1st left off both teams had shot's off the mark before Cambridge had a player tripped in the box, a penalty was given and on 57 mins Laura Baker completed her hat-trick as she slid the penalty home. The home side were in control now Lowestoft had to take risks push forwards tackles were flying in Lowestoft had a chance through Amber Rowland but a goal line scramble saw Cambridge clear their lines. The 4th goal came on the 70 min this time the scorer was Sophie Thompson.
The game continued to be hotly contested despite the scoreline with Cambridge not letting their foot off the pedal nor Lowestoft letting their heads drop they had to push on however and space was appearing at the back Cambridge won the ball deep on the left and the ball was fed across the six yard box evading everyone on 90 mins except Hannah Bodily who slotted the ball into the net to seal a 5-1 victory and with in progress into the FA Cup 1st round proper. An entertaining game to watch involving two commited sides.
Wednesday 30 October 2013
England Journeys
In the cause of supporting women's football I have had a couple of trips to watch the national team as they begin their World Cup 2015 qualifying campaign after their poor showing at this summer's European Championships in Sweden. An early exit that saw long standing coach Hope Powell lose her job. Now the post-mortem over those strangely below par performances is long over, plenty of opinions flying about as to why but the fact remains it was and still is a very talented and gifted squad of players with plenty more knocking on the door at senior level and U23's.
Of course it wasn't all doom and gloom for England's national teams over the summer there was one stand out team the Women's U19's who took part in their own European Championships in Wales back in August. Mo Marley the team coach had assembled herself a very gifted squad of young players, who played some very good positive passing football and made it all the way to the final without conceding a goal and in doing so qualifying for the U20 World Cup in Canada 2014 in the process. Unfortunately they were beaten after extra-time in the final by a very strong and physical France. They can however be proud of what they achieved and I will certainly be looking out for many of those players to see how they progress with extra interest as I travel the country to various games.
Below is one of my favourite pictures I took during the summer at Llanelli's Parc ye Scarlets stadium at the final before kick off love it, it's a major tournament final and shows how excited these girls are...
Anyway for the senior women's team it is a new era one without hope... (sorry nicked that one from everyone and their dog). Brent Hills, Hope Powell's assistant was put in temporary charge for the first two qualifying games against Belarus and Turkey whilst the FA began its search for a successor. There weren't too many surprises in Brent Hills first squad calling up the in form Natasha Dowie and Danielle Carter. Many had called for both Toni Duggan and Jordan Nobbs to be in the starting line-up and he duly oblieged as I travelled down to the Goldsands stadium on the south coast at Bournemouth for the first game against Belarus.
It was however Karen Carney who stole the show striking a first half hat-trick as England romped to a comfortable 6-0 victory ,White, Dowie and Aluko with the other goals. This was followed by an even more convincing 8-0 demolition of Turkey at Portsmouth 5 days later a perfect start for the caretaker boss.
Roll on a month later and the FA confirm that Brent Hills will continue in the role for the next two qualifiers at home to Wales and away to Turkey. Out of all the England Women's World Cup qualifiers this is one was the one I had to see my first home nation's football match in any form. Out of all the teams in the group Wales would present England with the toughest challenge many of their squad play in the WSL with Natasha Harding and Jess Fishlock being the two players to watch out for. That being said squad on squad England's was the strongest I expected a win but certainly not by the margin of the previous two games.
Off to London I travelled (via Lincolnshire) with three fellow excited and enthusiastic supporters in tow our venue The Den in the heart of London home to Championship side Millwall FC. Driving in London was for myself a relatively new experience but that's why I have a sat nav (do as she says) and I usually get there. Heading right past the Olympic Park, a place I must visit one day we made good time, no parking at the ground mind we took our chances on a single yellow line and headed to the ground.
The Den (formerly The New Den) is an impressive looking stadium I liked it and can imagine it's a pretty imposing place for an opposition team to visit when the home team are playing. England and Wales supporters filled the lower tiers of the ground on all four sides which was good. A good atomsphere everyone was looking forwards to the game.
The first half was a story of England dominance without finding the back of the net the Welsh goalkeeper Nicola Davies pulled off some fabulous saves, frustrating England's attackers who were passing the ball across the pitch with adandon trying in particular to get Karen Carney onto the ball from the right. Wales did have a couple of moments but on both occasions when a snap shot was the option their players hesitated and allowed England's defenders a chance to make a challenge. Still going in at 0-0 at half time Wales would have been pleased even with the injury Jess Fishlock suffered to her arm.
The second half however was a different story Natasha Harding had to be replaced through injury and with her arm bandaged up and clearly in discomfort Jess Fishlock playing in a deeper role for her country was struggling. England's Jordan Nobbs had done a fantastic job marking the Welsh playmaker in the first half found herself on the edge of the box with a scoring chance early on and England were in the lead.
With Jess Fishlock really struggling to continue (there's only so many times you can land on a damaged limb) England could attack in even greater numbers and it was Toni Duggan who added a second goal midway through the second half and effectively kill off the game. There was no point in Fishlock struggling on it was a brave effort as she was subsituted. From then on it was a combination of brave defending from Wales and wayward shooting from England that prevented a greater scoreline as England ran out comforable winners 2-0. A tougher opponent it was a game England certainly needed, the return match in Wales I'm sure will be an equally passionate affair.
After three games England lead the group with no goals conceded and 16 scored, a great start for Brent Hills onto Turkey where you would expect another victory. England will be confident but I'm sure never complacent of winning the group and qualifying for the World Cup and with a new manager to come and places to play for the real benefit should be the WSL and the fans who support it.
Of course it wasn't all doom and gloom for England's national teams over the summer there was one stand out team the Women's U19's who took part in their own European Championships in Wales back in August. Mo Marley the team coach had assembled herself a very gifted squad of young players, who played some very good positive passing football and made it all the way to the final without conceding a goal and in doing so qualifying for the U20 World Cup in Canada 2014 in the process. Unfortunately they were beaten after extra-time in the final by a very strong and physical France. They can however be proud of what they achieved and I will certainly be looking out for many of those players to see how they progress with extra interest as I travel the country to various games.
Below is one of my favourite pictures I took during the summer at Llanelli's Parc ye Scarlets stadium at the final before kick off love it, it's a major tournament final and shows how excited these girls are...
Anyway for the senior women's team it is a new era one without hope... (sorry nicked that one from everyone and their dog). Brent Hills, Hope Powell's assistant was put in temporary charge for the first two qualifying games against Belarus and Turkey whilst the FA began its search for a successor. There weren't too many surprises in Brent Hills first squad calling up the in form Natasha Dowie and Danielle Carter. Many had called for both Toni Duggan and Jordan Nobbs to be in the starting line-up and he duly oblieged as I travelled down to the Goldsands stadium on the south coast at Bournemouth for the first game against Belarus.
It was however Karen Carney who stole the show striking a first half hat-trick as England romped to a comfortable 6-0 victory ,White, Dowie and Aluko with the other goals. This was followed by an even more convincing 8-0 demolition of Turkey at Portsmouth 5 days later a perfect start for the caretaker boss.
Roll on a month later and the FA confirm that Brent Hills will continue in the role for the next two qualifiers at home to Wales and away to Turkey. Out of all the England Women's World Cup qualifiers this is one was the one I had to see my first home nation's football match in any form. Out of all the teams in the group Wales would present England with the toughest challenge many of their squad play in the WSL with Natasha Harding and Jess Fishlock being the two players to watch out for. That being said squad on squad England's was the strongest I expected a win but certainly not by the margin of the previous two games.
Off to London I travelled (via Lincolnshire) with three fellow excited and enthusiastic supporters in tow our venue The Den in the heart of London home to Championship side Millwall FC. Driving in London was for myself a relatively new experience but that's why I have a sat nav (do as she says) and I usually get there. Heading right past the Olympic Park, a place I must visit one day we made good time, no parking at the ground mind we took our chances on a single yellow line and headed to the ground.
The Den (formerly The New Den) is an impressive looking stadium I liked it and can imagine it's a pretty imposing place for an opposition team to visit when the home team are playing. England and Wales supporters filled the lower tiers of the ground on all four sides which was good. A good atomsphere everyone was looking forwards to the game.
The first half was a story of England dominance without finding the back of the net the Welsh goalkeeper Nicola Davies pulled off some fabulous saves, frustrating England's attackers who were passing the ball across the pitch with adandon trying in particular to get Karen Carney onto the ball from the right. Wales did have a couple of moments but on both occasions when a snap shot was the option their players hesitated and allowed England's defenders a chance to make a challenge. Still going in at 0-0 at half time Wales would have been pleased even with the injury Jess Fishlock suffered to her arm.
The second half however was a different story Natasha Harding had to be replaced through injury and with her arm bandaged up and clearly in discomfort Jess Fishlock playing in a deeper role for her country was struggling. England's Jordan Nobbs had done a fantastic job marking the Welsh playmaker in the first half found herself on the edge of the box with a scoring chance early on and England were in the lead.
With Jess Fishlock really struggling to continue (there's only so many times you can land on a damaged limb) England could attack in even greater numbers and it was Toni Duggan who added a second goal midway through the second half and effectively kill off the game. There was no point in Fishlock struggling on it was a brave effort as she was subsituted. From then on it was a combination of brave defending from Wales and wayward shooting from England that prevented a greater scoreline as England ran out comforable winners 2-0. A tougher opponent it was a game England certainly needed, the return match in Wales I'm sure will be an equally passionate affair.
After three games England lead the group with no goals conceded and 16 scored, a great start for Brent Hills onto Turkey where you would expect another victory. England will be confident but I'm sure never complacent of winning the group and qualifying for the World Cup and with a new manager to come and places to play for the real benefit should be the WSL and the fans who support it.
Saturday 19 October 2013
The Rebranding - Lincoln Ladies to become Notts County Ladies
I'm a Ladyimps fan I feel I'd best start here. A 12thimp as we started referring to ourselves in the last season. Proud to be a 12thimp too. That of course leads to the future the REBRANDING and the questions I have been asked by so many. How do you feel about it? And then, what are you going to do?
I was stunned like most fans of the club when the news broke back in April through the poorly thought through and hardly needed statement from the FA, something that disappointingly was going to be a theme from the sports governing body from then on in and something the club itself used to hide behind. It was a huge shadow that affected the team all season and on the eve of our FA Cup semi-final down at Bristol the biggest game in the clubs history (at that point) it had affected the players no doubt.
Personally I was shocked I'm a football fan got behind a club had just joined the newly formed Supporters Club, had sponsored a player too. Strangely up to that point I was fairly inactive on Twitter, that changed that day so you can blame the rebranding on that too. In the previous season and a half I had had little engagement with my fellow fans (I can be a shy chap believe it or not) with the formation of the Supporters Club we came together. I suppose because I travelled from Norfolk I felt like a bit of an outsider however I know that was not the case getting to know everyone I have felt very welcome and have made some good and I am sure lasting friends it has been a real highlight and I suppose my sadness at this move comes from my feelings for those in the county of Lincolnshire who were prepared to get behind this club and make it a success.
The most frustrating thing for myself has been my drive to understand the decision and the lack of explanation, because I do want to understand. Don't think I don't at this point because although it's been like getting blood from a stone I have spoken to various sources at length on the subject.
Lincoln Ladies will become Notts County Ladies from 2014 as the WSL enters its second phase and gains a second tier. It is a franchise league which means teams bid to secure a place in it. Lincoln Ladies are owned by Ray Trew who is also the owner of Notts County men's club. Teams in the current WSL set up and the new bidders 33 in total had to submit a bid to join the new 2 tier WSL 1 & 2 these criteria included, playing facilities and financial backing on this basis it meant the merging of 2 clubs into 1 and with the men's club being the larger Lincoln Ladies and it's 18 year history was the casualty. Lincoln Ladies as it stood would not have been able to retain its place in the WSL based on the terms laid out by the FA.
If this rebranding had happened in the men's game there would have been uproar, debate on a national level... it was the women however and barely caused a ripple that is perhaps an example of how far the sport has to come?
The club is becoming Notts County Ladies the Ladyimps will be no more that is that. Now I became involved when the club first joined the WSL and then Lincoln Ladies own inclusion caused a stir the casualty then was Leeds of whom several Lincoln players came from and looking at that group in general Leeds had one hell of a side so there were losers back in 2011 too. Someone said to me and it is a valid point had Notts County been in a WSL side back in 2011 and not Lincoln would I have gone to support because they would have still been the nearest, although only just?
I think that's fair enough from my point of view, I am an exception but by no stretch the only one, a fan who is prepared to travel stupid miles to support a team. It is the people of Lincoln who have lost out, they have lost a club 18 years in history which I had a brief glimpse of however like myself they are passionate about the game and will find a way to support the women who want to play the game and maybe I hope another Lincoln team will rise, someone in the county will take advantage of what was a strong and growing fan base. A lot walked away when the rebranding was announced but 500+ had turned up for that first league game in 2013 the potential was certainly there.
Well what am I going to do?
This is a good question I suppose you have to take the emotion out of it progress is not without victims and in this case a football club is no more, wasn't the first, will not be the last. I guess over the course of the 2013 season my own evolution as a fan began albeit subconsciously to start with. Franchise football, what the hell is that all about this is England for goodness sakes, not America? Who better to ask then than an American (oddly several of them aren't fond of franchised sport either) however they get it and I did listen to what my friend had to say, over there you don't always support the 'club' as strongly as you do the players within it.
It wasn't the only reason and I know I wasn't the only fan with this mindset we kept coming because we support the girls who just want to play the game. It was those same players who were thankful for the support too. We all have our favourite players after all and I guess if enough of those players are still at Notts County come the start of the 2014 I will support them, it will be for them and myself a new beginning. However there is a long winter period, which will see lots of coming and goings player wise involving all clubs not just Notts County, Man City are new too and we don't know yet what they're spending power is. Liverpool won't stand still either thus the rest will have to act. It will be very interesting.
One thing is certain my passion to support has only grown.
I was stunned like most fans of the club when the news broke back in April through the poorly thought through and hardly needed statement from the FA, something that disappointingly was going to be a theme from the sports governing body from then on in and something the club itself used to hide behind. It was a huge shadow that affected the team all season and on the eve of our FA Cup semi-final down at Bristol the biggest game in the clubs history (at that point) it had affected the players no doubt.
Personally I was shocked I'm a football fan got behind a club had just joined the newly formed Supporters Club, had sponsored a player too. Strangely up to that point I was fairly inactive on Twitter, that changed that day so you can blame the rebranding on that too. In the previous season and a half I had had little engagement with my fellow fans (I can be a shy chap believe it or not) with the formation of the Supporters Club we came together. I suppose because I travelled from Norfolk I felt like a bit of an outsider however I know that was not the case getting to know everyone I have felt very welcome and have made some good and I am sure lasting friends it has been a real highlight and I suppose my sadness at this move comes from my feelings for those in the county of Lincolnshire who were prepared to get behind this club and make it a success.
The most frustrating thing for myself has been my drive to understand the decision and the lack of explanation, because I do want to understand. Don't think I don't at this point because although it's been like getting blood from a stone I have spoken to various sources at length on the subject.
Lincoln Ladies will become Notts County Ladies from 2014 as the WSL enters its second phase and gains a second tier. It is a franchise league which means teams bid to secure a place in it. Lincoln Ladies are owned by Ray Trew who is also the owner of Notts County men's club. Teams in the current WSL set up and the new bidders 33 in total had to submit a bid to join the new 2 tier WSL 1 & 2 these criteria included, playing facilities and financial backing on this basis it meant the merging of 2 clubs into 1 and with the men's club being the larger Lincoln Ladies and it's 18 year history was the casualty. Lincoln Ladies as it stood would not have been able to retain its place in the WSL based on the terms laid out by the FA.
If this rebranding had happened in the men's game there would have been uproar, debate on a national level... it was the women however and barely caused a ripple that is perhaps an example of how far the sport has to come?
The club is becoming Notts County Ladies the Ladyimps will be no more that is that. Now I became involved when the club first joined the WSL and then Lincoln Ladies own inclusion caused a stir the casualty then was Leeds of whom several Lincoln players came from and looking at that group in general Leeds had one hell of a side so there were losers back in 2011 too. Someone said to me and it is a valid point had Notts County been in a WSL side back in 2011 and not Lincoln would I have gone to support because they would have still been the nearest, although only just?
I think that's fair enough from my point of view, I am an exception but by no stretch the only one, a fan who is prepared to travel stupid miles to support a team. It is the people of Lincoln who have lost out, they have lost a club 18 years in history which I had a brief glimpse of however like myself they are passionate about the game and will find a way to support the women who want to play the game and maybe I hope another Lincoln team will rise, someone in the county will take advantage of what was a strong and growing fan base. A lot walked away when the rebranding was announced but 500+ had turned up for that first league game in 2013 the potential was certainly there.
Well what am I going to do?
This is a good question I suppose you have to take the emotion out of it progress is not without victims and in this case a football club is no more, wasn't the first, will not be the last. I guess over the course of the 2013 season my own evolution as a fan began albeit subconsciously to start with. Franchise football, what the hell is that all about this is England for goodness sakes, not America? Who better to ask then than an American (oddly several of them aren't fond of franchised sport either) however they get it and I did listen to what my friend had to say, over there you don't always support the 'club' as strongly as you do the players within it.
It wasn't the only reason and I know I wasn't the only fan with this mindset we kept coming because we support the girls who just want to play the game. It was those same players who were thankful for the support too. We all have our favourite players after all and I guess if enough of those players are still at Notts County come the start of the 2014 I will support them, it will be for them and myself a new beginning. However there is a long winter period, which will see lots of coming and goings player wise involving all clubs not just Notts County, Man City are new too and we don't know yet what they're spending power is. Liverpool won't stand still either thus the rest will have to act. It will be very interesting.
One thing is certain my passion to support has only grown.
Welcome to the Blog
Welcome to my new blog, Supporting Women's Football. My aim is to in my own small way help to promote the sport as so many other fans do so well in various guises and media throughout the land. Although growing the women's game still lacks the mainstream media coverage it deserves and the more coverage it can get the better in my opinion.
A little bit about myself then and why I am so passionate about the sport,a bloke in his thirties from Norfolk born and raised. My first taste of women's football came back in 2005 when the England team played Iceland in a friendly at Carrow Road (oh my god This is going to be a long introduction!) I can hear you cry. I was asked to go by a colleague at work and thought it would be interesting, was curious to see how good they were. I liked it, was impressed by the standard of play and passion. After that however I only really followed from a far my interest peaking at major tournaments because it was only then the team got a mention.
Fast forwards to the 2011 World Cup, I got right behind the team played some good football but alas we lost to France on penalties. However that was the year the WSL (Women's Super League) was born and I decided I should take a look at this new league as it resumed after its summer break. Bearing in mind I live in Norfolk it was a case of taking a look at the teams and seeing what was what. My favourite women's footballer of all time was playing for Everton at the time but for little travelled me that wasn't really practical, looking at the miles I've covered since then mind supporting women's football I have to wonder why?
Anyway Lincoln Ladies were the nearest a mere 72 miles, they had Sue Smith, Casey Stoney and Sophie Bradley in their squad and the visitors were Birmingham I thought this would be a great place to start. Off to Ashby Avenue I went without sun cream and stood by the pitch getting burnt as I witnessed a spirited 1-1 draw, really liked the home team and the work they put in to secure a point against what was a very good Birmingham side, liked the little blonde terrier/batting ram in midfield, Remi Allen and the feisty leftback from Harrogate who gave the linesman nothing but grief from start to finish, Rachel Daly and thus my passion for the ladyimps and women's football was truly awakened and I haven't looked back since.
In creating the Supporting Women's Football blog I hope to cover as many levels of the sport as I can from the upper reaches of the WSL all the way down to the grass roots level of my home county of Norfolk. Therefore I will be all over the place (probably getting wet a lot) attending matches and reporting back to you on proceedings and any other topical news regarding women's football that might be of interest it'll keep me out of trouble if nothing else. I will always welcome comments and debate positive or negative on here or on my Twitter feed @GilharrenD and maybe if someone out there has got something they would like me to write about within the sport then feel free to let me know I will certainly consider it. I will do my best to regulary update I'm new to this blogging experience so will be learning as I go along but I am certainly excited by this new adventure.
A little bit about myself then and why I am so passionate about the sport,a bloke in his thirties from Norfolk born and raised. My first taste of women's football came back in 2005 when the England team played Iceland in a friendly at Carrow Road (oh my god This is going to be a long introduction!) I can hear you cry. I was asked to go by a colleague at work and thought it would be interesting, was curious to see how good they were. I liked it, was impressed by the standard of play and passion. After that however I only really followed from a far my interest peaking at major tournaments because it was only then the team got a mention.
Fast forwards to the 2011 World Cup, I got right behind the team played some good football but alas we lost to France on penalties. However that was the year the WSL (Women's Super League) was born and I decided I should take a look at this new league as it resumed after its summer break. Bearing in mind I live in Norfolk it was a case of taking a look at the teams and seeing what was what. My favourite women's footballer of all time was playing for Everton at the time but for little travelled me that wasn't really practical, looking at the miles I've covered since then mind supporting women's football I have to wonder why?
Anyway Lincoln Ladies were the nearest a mere 72 miles, they had Sue Smith, Casey Stoney and Sophie Bradley in their squad and the visitors were Birmingham I thought this would be a great place to start. Off to Ashby Avenue I went without sun cream and stood by the pitch getting burnt as I witnessed a spirited 1-1 draw, really liked the home team and the work they put in to secure a point against what was a very good Birmingham side, liked the little blonde terrier/batting ram in midfield, Remi Allen and the feisty leftback from Harrogate who gave the linesman nothing but grief from start to finish, Rachel Daly and thus my passion for the ladyimps and women's football was truly awakened and I haven't looked back since.
In creating the Supporting Women's Football blog I hope to cover as many levels of the sport as I can from the upper reaches of the WSL all the way down to the grass roots level of my home county of Norfolk. Therefore I will be all over the place (probably getting wet a lot) attending matches and reporting back to you on proceedings and any other topical news regarding women's football that might be of interest it'll keep me out of trouble if nothing else. I will always welcome comments and debate positive or negative on here or on my Twitter feed @GilharrenD and maybe if someone out there has got something they would like me to write about within the sport then feel free to let me know I will certainly consider it. I will do my best to regulary update I'm new to this blogging experience so will be learning as I go along but I am certainly excited by this new adventure.
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