Match Report - Cambridge WFC v Cheltenham Town Ladies - FAWPL League Cup

   The start of a new season brings new look leagues and cup competitions, today was the determining round of the FA Women's Premier League Cup. With teams taking part from the two Premier Divisions and the four regional Division One's. My tie of the round to watch was Cambridge WFC v Cheltenham Town Ladies.

   Playing in the FAWPL South East Division One, Cambridge WFC were playing host to their counterparts, Cheltenham Town LFC, the Gloucestershire side competing in the South West Division One. Both teams had lost their opening day league fixtures last weekend so the cup match represented a good opportunity to get their season going with victory taking them into the 1st round proper.

   The venue Ely City FC, the weather was fantastic for a game of football bright and sunny, few dark clouds around but nothing to worry about.

    Cambridge WFC starting XI - Liz Pamplin, Emma Jenkins, Jordan Holland, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Rebecca Fay, Millie Turner, Hannah Bodily, Laura Bright (C), Becky Russell, Faith Hewitt & Nuala Wayne.

   Cheltenham Town Ladies starting XI - Ashleigh Lebbon, Anna Dennis, Natalie Berry, Emily Skipp, Kirsty Dunleavy (C), Rhona Donaldson, Jade Wiltshire, Katie Walker, Jen Brown-Wealls & Kim Hewlett.

   Cambridge were lined up in their new home kit unveiled last weekend, sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts, the shirts featuring the name of new sponsor Sepura. It was Cheltenham to kick off the match wearing what would be best described as a rust coloured kit with white trim upon the shirts and shorts.

   There was however nothing rusty about the visitors start as they won the ball back from Cambridge and launched it forwards, it looked very close to being offside as striker Kim Hewlett burst free with the Cambridge defence pressed up close to the half way line, no flag Hewlett has the ball runs into the box and slots it past Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin to give Cheltenham the lead in the 1st minute of the match 0-1.

  Cambridge look to go forwards using their wide players to get into goood crossing positions the ball is played into striler Nuala Wayne waiting at the corner of the penalty box, has a tentative strike towards goal, Cheltenham goalkeeper Ashleigh Lebbon isn't troubled.

    Pamplin makes a save as Cheltenham's Emily Skipp finds herself free to shoot inside the box having made a strong run down the left wing.

   Cambridge are getting the better of the possession Hannah Bodily and captain Laura Bright working hard in midfield, steadily work the ball forwards to Millie Turner who plays the ball from a central position out to Becky Russell on the left wing, she puts a good cross into the six yard box, Wayne can't get to the ball before Lebbon claims.

Cambridge's Laura Bright (C) & Hannah Bodily

    Faith Hewitt for Cambridge crosses the ball in from the left Cheltenham concede a corner, played in by Russell into the near post it comes out to Wayne who shoots from outside the box the ball travelling through a crowd of players Lebbon does well to take it.

   In Cheltenham's midfield Rhona Donaldson is strong on the ball, looking to get forwards to supporting the attackers almost finds herself through to shoot on goal pulls the trigger, the block comes in from Cambridge's Jordan Holland diving to prevent her.

   Jen Brown-Wealls for Cheltenham running with the ball into the right channel puts in a good cross, Holland gets her head on the ball to clear as Hewlett tries to reach it.

    From a Cambridge corner defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt volleys the ball from outside the box the attempt on goal going wide.

    Cheltenham's Hewlett strals the ball from the Cambridge defence, opts to shoot quickly the effort from outside of the box swerving goes straight into Pamplin's gloves.

   Keeping the ball in Cambridge's final third for a spell, the shot on goal comes in from Donaldson on the half volley the ball going over the crossbar.

Cheltenham's Rhona Donaldson

    Cambridge get the ball up the pitch quickly down the right as Turner and Jenkins link up well, get the ball into Wayne, on the right outside the box Cheltenham don't close her down, a good strike she puts the ball into the back of the net to equalise 1-1.

   The pressing is all Cambridge's as the half draws to and end Wayne with another effort from the same spot, this time shoots over, with Hewitt and Russell both having the ball at their feet inside the box only for Cheltenham's Anna Dennis to win it back on both occasions.

                   Half-time Cambridge WFC 1-1 Cheltenham Town Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half with both teams working extremely hard the ball travelling up and down the pitch at a fast pace Cambridge despite the early set back enjoying more sustained spells of possession pulling the scores level before the break all to play for 2nd half as they kicked off.

   Cheltenham making a change at the break bringing on Abbi Pearce for Natalie Berry. Cheltenham's captain Kirsty Dunleavy is called into action to deny Wayne a scoring chance as she takes the ball into the box.

    Early in the half Cambridge a pushing Cheltenham back win a corner it is only half cleared the ball coming back into a crowded penalty box the referee spots a trip and a penalty is given. It's Laura Bright to step up and take the kick placing the ball on the spot she sends Lebbon the wrong way to give the home side the lead 2-1.

    Cheltenham make their 2nd substitution Catherine Reilly coming on for Jen Brown-Wealls. Cambridge though continue their good start to the 2nd half Russell playing in a corner to the centre it's Holland who rises to meet the ball but directs it wide.

    Faith Hewitt bursts into the Cheltenham box with the ball looks to pass to Turner in a central position, Lebbon saves, the loose ball comes back to Hewitt who shots Lebbon tries to get back stop the ball going over the line, the linesman indicates it crosses the line and Cambridge lead 3-1.

   Wayne has a shot from 25 yards that flies over the bar, then shortly after the referee allows the advantage after she is fouled with Hewitt on the ball she shoots wide.

   Chances for Cheltenham are rare in the 2nd half they cannot get the ball up the pitch quick enough Hewlett does manage to get a cross in from the left the ball is headed over at the far post.

   Cambridge make a change Hannah Bodily coming off, Hannah Goodchild coming on. Wayne makes a strong run cutting in from the left on the by line sees Turner central on the six yard line plays her in Turner tries to divert the ball into the open net with the inside of her foot, gets too much on the attempt sends the ball wide.

    Sophie Thompson comes on for Cambridge replacing Faith Hewitt. Has an early chance to shoot too as Wayne sees her run and plays her in the shot is blocked on the edge of the box, Cheltenham break through Hewlett, Cambridge concede a corner from the cross. The ball coms out to the left from the setpiece Hewlett hits the ball on the run Pamplin is behind it to take the catch.

   Thompson is onto a good through ball breaks forwards into the box is pushed a little wide of goal by Dennis who does well to block her shot gives away a corner. This corner leads to a serious amount of pinball inside the six yard box, somehow Lebbon avoids getting kicked to death and eventually claim the ball.

    The clock ticking down Katie Walker has a pop from 30 yards the shot blazes over. Hewlett takes a free kick 30 yards out from goal the strike again straight at Pamplin.

    Last break for Cambridge, Wayne is onside, Lebbon comes rushing off her line does enough to put her off as Wayne sends the ball wide. Full time and Cambridge win 3-1 and progress to the next round of the FAWPL League Cup.

   Cheltenham despite losing the tie get a 2nd chance of competing for silverware as they enter FAWPL Plate. Take a look at the FAWPL's official twitter feed @FA_WPL for more details.

    A good win for Cambridge after suffering such an early setback very strong in the 2nd half creating plenty of goal scoring chances.

    Cheltenham will undoubtedly be disappointed with the loss, a long way to travel too. Good to see a women's team from another part of the country play and I wish them all the best for the season.

    The draw for both the FAWPL League Cup and Plate take place tomorrow, Monday 1st September.

 

  

Match Report - Reading FC Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles - FAWSL 2

     The race for the FAWSL 2 title continues to be hotly contested with both the leaders Sunderland Ladies and 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles still undefeated after 10 matches played. Just 2 points separated the teams going into the day.

   It was 3rd placed Reading FC Women who had taken points off Sunderland Ladies last weekend with a 1-1 at home that had allowed Doncaster Rovers Belles to close the gap at the top, now it was 2nd versus 3rd as it was Doncaster Rovers Belles turn to travel down to Farnborough FC and try and get a vital 3 points.

   Reading FC Women though sitting in 3rd place on 17 points after 9 matches played have been in great form in the league recently with 2 wins and the draw against the league leaders. Doncaster Rovers Belles wouldn't be short on confidence either having scored 12 goals in their last 2 league fixtures against London Bees and Oxford United Women.

    My 1st trip to Reading FC Women's home ground at Farnborough FC, another good stadium, excellent facilities, plenty of parking. Seated stands upon 3 sides of the ground with terracing filling the rest around the pitch it was all available to the spectators.

   Sunderland Ladies played earlier today with a 3pm kick off at home to Aston Villa Ladies and won 3-1 to extend the lead at the top of the table to 5 points.

    Reading FC Women starting XI - Nicky Davies, Rebecca Jane, Kirsty McGee (C), Molly Bartrip, Shelly Cox, Bonnie Horwood, Bianca Bragg, Lois Roche, Lauren Bruton, Harriet Scott & Fran Kirby.

   Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI - Nicola Hobbs, Lyndsey Cunningham, Rhiannon Roberts, Leandra Little (C), Lauren Cresswell, Kasia Lipka, Beth England, Victoria Williams, Jess Sigsworth, Sue Smith & Courtney Sweetman-Kirk.

   It was the visitors in their away kit of red shirts and socks and black shorts to kick off the match against Reading lined up in their white and blue hooped shirts, blue shorts and white socks.

   Doncaster have an early free kick conceded near the half way line a chance for defender Rhiannon Roberts to play a ball into the box, a good delivery the ball drops down on the edge of the penalty box, no player able to get a clean strike away before Reading clear.

   It is Doncaster with the early attacking play, Jess Sigsworth with the ball at her feet has a go from distance the ball flying high over the bar. Sue Smith wins a corner of Reading's Molly Bartrip, puts the delivery into towards the near post, Doncaster captain Leandra Little is there gets her head on the ball but again off target and over.

Jess Sigsworth on the attack for Doncaster

   Finally Reading get an attack of their own going the ball played out to Fran Kirby on the left, running with the ball cuts back inside and has a strike fom outside the box, Doncaster goalkeeper Nicola Hobbs is there to gather the ball.

    Kirby is roaming across the front line making it difficult for Doncaster's defenders to mark, this time Kirby lays the ball off to Lauren Bruton who strikes from distance the shot no trouble for Hobbs. Soon after Bruton is through on goal again, but both Hobbs and Little come to challenge for the ball almost getting in each others way they clear the threat.

   Little is booked for a foul on Kirby 30 yards out to the left of the goal, Hobbs sets her wall, and Kirby taking the kick blasts the ball against it the effort blocked.

 Sue Smith receives the ball out wide left, comes back inside sees the midfield run from Beth England as she breaks into the box, Smith tries to thread the ball through to her, Bruton though has tracked back all the way to the edge of her own box and makes a great interception.

    Doncaster right back Lyndsey Cunningham with good work down the right gets a cross, Reading goal keeper Nicky Davies is their to claim the ball. Reading break, Bruton with the ball down the right, puts a low cross in along the six yard line goes past Hobbs, Kirby is closing in, however Cunningham has come across and gets to the ball first.

    Courtney Sweetman-Kirk steals the ball off Reading captain Kirsty McGee at the back and from the left outside the penalty box shoots, off target Davies sees it wide of the goal.

   Reading have a break again have the Doncaster defence stretched and the ball comes out to Kirby wide left, dropping her shoulder she bursts forwards looks to put the ball in from an acute angle, Hobbs is beaten as the ball flies into the top corner 1-0.

Fran Kirby looking to attack at every opportunity

   Sigsworth puts a good ball in from the left, coming down close to the penalty spot no one can get on the end of it as Molly Bartrip clears. Soon another Reading attacking move is building the ball travelling quickly up the pitch the target Kirby this time out wide right, she jinks back beating her marker and fires in a cross the ball whipping along the goal mouth before Doncaster can win it back.

   Doncaster make a change as Lauren Cresswell needs to come off having been injured, Millie Bright coming on and taking up a place in midfield as Victoria Williams moves into the left back slot.

   Reading win the ball back in midfield the pass is perfect through to Kirby inside the box to the right of goal she shoots, Hobbs is beaten, the ball though misses the target and goes out for a goal kick.

   Doncaster pressure late in the half, Sweetman-Kirk with a 20 yard strike that goes wide of Davies' goal, then Sigsworth heads wide from a Cunningham cross, then Sigsworth wins the ball from Reading's Rebecca Jane, looks to get a shot away, Davies though is there to make the save.

   On the stroke of half-time Kirby is in again through on goal from a direct ball coming into the box she shifts the ball a couple of times and slides it into the bottom corner of the net to double the home sides lead 2-0.

                           Half-time Reading FC Women 2-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

   The pace and movement from Kirby has caused the Doncaster back line all sorts of problems, whilst in attack Reading's defenders have worked hard to limit the visitors chances. Doncaster know they need a big 2nd half performance if they want to come back into the match.

    Reading kick off the 2nd half, they start brightly Bianca Bragg with the steal in midfield passes the ball out to Bruton who is free on the right, driving forwards she puts a cross in to close to Hobbs who collects.

   Doncaster have a corner the delivery finds the head of Victoria Williams, heading down the ball is directly at Davies and she takes it cleanly.

   Kirby with the ball in a deeper position comes into the middle and lets fly from 20 yards the rising ball is straight down Hobbs' throat and she grabs the ball.

   Chance for Smith as the ball comes looping into her on the edge of the box central she attempts to volley it goalwards, looping up and down it is close but drops narrowly wide of goal. Moments later Beth England with the half volley from outside the box puts the ball onto the roof of the net.

   Reading have a free kick just inside the half way line Lois Roche to deliver plays in a dangerous ball to the centre it spills loose off Hobbs, a shot is fired back in Little though is back to block on the line, the 2nd attempt is blocked by Millie Bright and Doncaster clear.

   Smith is brought down 30 yards to the left of Reading's goal, it's Bright on the ball her curling effort won't come down in time and goes over.

    Hat-trick! Bragg in the centre plays a perfectly weighted pass through to Kirby, the Doncaster defence is split as she is through on goal, Hobbs comes out, Kirby lifts it over the diving keeper though to seal her hat-trick 3-0.

Hat-trick hero Fran Kirby

    Kasia Lipka with a shot from 30 yards out again finding Davies well positioned. The visitors make a 2nd change bringing off Beth England for Ashleigh Mills.

   Another Reading break have numbers forwards midfielders looking to go beyond Kirby for a change as this time she turns provider playing the ball through to Bonnie Horwood inside the box his free, has time to weigh up her options stays composed sends it past Hobbs and scores 4-0.

    Sweetman-Kirk has a strike from 30 yards as the visitors try to pull one back but as with all of their efforts on target Davies has been in the right place to make the save.

   Bartrip clears a deep cross floated in from Doncaster, only as far as Sigsworth who on the edge of the box drives inside and shoots, Horwood is there almost knocked off her feet as she blocks the fierce effort and it is deflected wide for a corner.

  Kasia Lipka picks up an injury and is forced to come off with Reanne Thomas coming on.

   Bruton has the ball looks to have a shot, which is blocked by Williams, but Kirby is in again on goal this time though Hobbs makes a great save with her feet. Makes another fantastic save moments later as Bragg has a strike sees her shot tipped onto the post.

    Kirby comes off the crowd applauding her display, Cheryl Williams coming on to play up front.

   Not long before she is involved in the action as she is played in passes to Bruton to her right her shot is saved.

  Doncaster claim for a penalty as Sigsworth goes down inside the box, but nothing is given. Minutes left Williams plays the ball into Sweetman-Kirk she turns and goes for goal as Davies comes out to meet her for once the keeper is beaten,covering however Kirsty McGee kicks the ball away from goal to concede the corner.

   Reading bring off Harriet Scott late on with Ashleigh Goddard taking her place on the pitch, has little time to make an impact as the final whistle is blown and Reading seal an impressive 4-0 victory.

   Was an impressive performance from Reading, Fran Kirby's hat-trick will no doubt and rightly so have the headlines. In midfield though Lois Roche, Bonnie Horwood and Biance Bragg ran the show winning the ball back often and springing an attack.

    Doncaster will be very disappointed with the scoreline found it difficult to break Reading down in the final point and fail to close the 5 point gap Sunderland have over them at the top, will be looking over their shoulder to now as those 3pts for Reading see them move onto 20 points 4 behind Doncaster with a game in hand.

    No doubt there will be a few more twists and turns in the FAWSL 2 title race, Reading though have definetly had their say.

Match Report - Norwich City Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies - FAWPL South East Division One

    A new season is upon us as the women's winter league pyramid's top 2 tiers begin their 2014/15 campaign. And what better place to start than an East Anglian derby as Norwich City Ladies welcomed Suffolk rivals Ipswich Town Ladies to Plantation Park.

    Formerly known as the South East Combination league it has be revamped over the close season to become known as the FA Women's Premier League (FAWPL) South East Division One. Retaining the geographical nature of the old Combination set up of four regions, North, Midlands, South West & South East. The prize for winning the league a place in the FAWPL South.

   10 of the 11 FAWPL South East Division One teams were in action today the fixtures as follows:

C&K Basildon v Bedford Ladies

 

Cambridge WFC v Enfield Town Ladies

 

Denham United Ladies v Crystal Palace Ladies

 

Milton Keynes Dons LFC v Luton Town Ladies

 

Norwich City Ladies v Ipswich Town Ladies

 

 

   The last fixture was my game of the day a great season opener and also the 2nd East Anglian derby of the weekend the men having played on Saturday, but this is a women's football blog so we're only interested with today's action.

 

   A simple trek up east along the A47, I'd forgotten about the roadworks going on near to Norwich City Ladies home venue Plantation Park still made it just in time for kick off. Was a warm sunny afternoon, the pitch looked a little dry otherwise in good shape.

 

   Norwich City Ladies match day squad - Fiona Coombes, Bryony Radley, Bridie Hipperson, Charlotte Edwards, Sue-Lyn King, Emily Lewin (C), Emily Hodson, Jordan Arnoup, Chelsea Garrett, Natasha Snelling, Gemma Farman, Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow, Jenny Harrison, Megan Lewis & Jade Nicholson.

 

  Ipswich Town Ladies match day squad - Chloe Wood, Coral Young, Lucy Du Plooy, Aimee Harrison, Dani Bitten (C), Kirby King, Roxanne Small, Amanda Crump, Molly Hall, Ellie Froud, Jasmine Cox & Sasha Dixon.

 

    It's Norwich in their yellow and green kit to kick off the game, with Ipswich lined up in their blue shirts and socks with white shorts. The visitors have the 1st effort at goal a long range pop that is sent wide.

 

    Norwich though are soon on the counter striker Natasha Snelling with the ball at her feet finds space down the left puts in an early ball with the outside of her boot, flies across the six yard box out to the other side of the box, trying to clear the ball Ipswich give away an early penalty. It's Jordan Arnoup with the ball on the spot, sends the ball to the right of the diving Chloe Wood in the Ipswich goal 1-0.

 

   Ipswich captain Dani Bitten heads the ball wide of Norwich's goal from a set piece delivered in from the left.

 

   Winning the ball back in the middle Norwich get another attack going a long pass out to the right for Snelling to run onto breaking towards the box the striker gets a shot away despite being under challenge slots the ball past Wood to give the home side a 2-0 early on.

 

   Ipswich try their luck from long range 1st through a Bitten strike 20 yards out that Norwich goalkeeper Fiona Coombes sees past the post, then Ipswich's Amanda Crump pulls her shot wide of goal.

 

    Ipswich are looking to press Norwich in their own half with Bitten more often than not winning the ball, finding the pass to unlock Norwich's defence isn't so easy. Roxanne Small pushing up looks the most likely but Sue-Lyn King marks her well to win back the ball.

 

    Norwich captain Emily Lewin has a chance from a poor kick out from Wood in the Ipswich ball intercepting the ball, let's fly from 25 yards, hits the cross bar. Norwich are attacking now 1st Snelling blasts over then Chelsea Garrett steals in from the left has a shot from just inside the box the shot goes wide across the goal.

 

Norwich's Chelsea Garrett on the attack

 

    Ipswich striker Molly Hall has a shot from 20 yards out lacks the pace to beat Coombes as she drops down to make the save.

 

   It's Wood's turn to make the save as Norwich break Snelling with the ball at her feet again takes aim from outside the box, can't get it past the keeper. Norwich are enjoying the bulk of the attacks, Snelling out on the flank plays a good ball into the box looking for Arnoup, Wood is quickly off her line to clear the ball.

 

    Garrett with another surging run down the right puts in a fierce cross, angling towards the far post Wood can't get to it, and Snelling is their sliding in to turn the ball into the back of the net 3-0.

  

   Emily Lewin with the last chance of the half from a break coming in from the left shoots early putting the ball onto the roof of the net.

 

                           Half-time Norwich City Ladies 3-0 Ipswich Town Ladies

 

    3-0 down at half time Ipswich are looking up against it 2nd half as they kick off. Is a quiet opening to the half, play is stopped though as Sue-Lyn King and Roxanne Small collide the defender sliding in on a lose ball accidentally catches the Ipswich player, a free kick is given there is a lengthy break whilst Small receives treatment, can't carry on and is helped off the pitch, looked serious but speaking to Ipswich's manager Ralph Pruden after the game, he says she will be alright. Her replacement is Sasha Diston.

 

     It is a lengthy break, seems to half caught Norwich on the hop as play resumes the ball is played out wide left to the unmarked Amanda Crump coming inside the the corner of the box, she shoots putting the ball over Coombes and into the net to pull a goal back for the visitors 3-1.

 

   Ipswich win a corner soon after taken short the ball is played out to Crump her shot is blocked before Norwich win a free kick against her. Ipswich are enjoying a spell of pressure around the Norwich box.

 

    The ball is played in by Crump from wide left Coombes can't collect as a defender looks to have hooked it off the line... the referee though awards the goal and Crump has her 2nd as Ispwich pull it back to 3-2.

 

    It's all Ipswich a corner from the right low across the six yard box causes havoc, players scrambling to get it clear, it is put in at the far post Ipswich's Jasmine Cox claiming the goal 3-3 and game on a terrific come back from the visitors.

 

    Norwich need to regroup as Gemma Farman comes. Norwich have the ball with Arnoup central she power her way through Ipswich's defenders is pushed wide inside the box, her shot is screwed wide of goal.Garrett twists and turns with the ball out on the wing has a go from 25 yards the effort wide of the mark.

 

Norwich's Jordan Arnoup tussles with Ipswich's Dani Bitten for the ball

 

   Coombes saves from an Ipswich free kick taken central to her goal, Norwich break Emily Hodson with the ball tries to hold it up waiting for support to arrive but is crowded off the ball.

 

   Norwich come back into the game it's Snelling, she runs with the ball into the box from the left lobs the ball over the on rushing Wood, the ball looping over the keeper comes down off the bar into the middle, Snelling though is alert and following up plays the loose ball into the net to restore Norwich's lead 4-3. Snelling has a hat-trick.

 

    Coombes is hurt then clearing the ball at her near post, needs treatment as Megan Lewis comes on for Chelsea Garrett. Coombes can't carry on and is replaced by Jade Nicholson in goal.

 

   Snelling is onto a good pass played through the middle peels off to the left running in on goal shoots Wood blocks but again Snelling is onto the loose ball and follows up to score her 4th and Norwich's 5th 5-3.

 

   Snelling is forced to come off shortly after, picking up a knock she can't run off Norwich having used all their subs have to carry on with 10. Jade Nicholson is called into action making a great save from Sasha Distin as she bursts into the box and tries to shoot across the keeper, puts it out for a corner.

 

    A good run from Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow is brought to an end as she is sandwiched between two Ipswich defenders a free kick is awarded 20 yards from goal, the set piece is played onto the roof of the net.

 

    Norwich are keeping the ball well despite being a player down have a break through Fewkes-Woodrow, Wood comes out of her goal to close her down makes a good save at her feet.

 

                         Full-time Norwich City Ladies 5-3 Ipswich Town Ladies

 

       A thrilling game 8 goals scored, Norwich were the better side 1st half got the 3 goal lead. Fantastic fight back from Ipswich to pull the scores level, before Norwich regrouped and went on to score twice more and claim the 3pts.

 

    In the other 4 opening day FAWPL South East Division One fixtures the results were:                            

                                                      C&K Basildon 3-2 Bedford Ladies

 

     Cambridge WFC 0-2 Enfield Town Ladies

 

Denham United Ladies 0-2 Crystal Palace Ladies

 

Milton Keynes Dons LFC 1-1 Luton Town Ladies

                                 



Match Report - Bristol Academy v Everton Ladies FAWSL 1

     Has been a while since I've covered a match in the top tier of women's football, the FAWSL 1 over a month in fact, that has been mostly due to the fact there has been very little in way of fixtures during this period, despite this being a summer league.

    No doubt the players from both clubs in todays match between Bristol Academy and Everton Ladies were keen to get some match action. Bristol Academy haven't played since the 27th July having been forced to postpone their match, to be televised by BT Sport at home to Manchester City Women on the 11th August due to a waterlogged pitch.

    Everton Ladies have had to wait even longer to play a match haven't had a fixture since the 20th July with several of their squad taking part in the Women's U20 World Cup. In fact had England's U20s progressed to the latter stages of the tournament in Canada then this fixture too may have been in doubt.

   As it was the game was on and I was glad to be making my 1st trip of the season down to the Stoke Gifford Stadium to watch Bristol Academy play having only seen them as the away opponent so far. Hadn't seen too much of Everton Ladies either. Both were looking for points as they had the unenviable position of occupying the bottom 2 positions of the FAWSL 1 league table going into the weekend.

   Everton Ladies were bottom with just 2pts from 7 matches played. Bristol Academy had a 5pt cushion having 7pts from 7 played, but depending on the FA's ruling against Notts County Ladies allegedly failing to fulfill a fixture this points tally could increase by 3 depending on the outcome of Notts County Ladies appeal. The FA having initally awarded the 3pts to Bristol Academy. Eitherway Bristol Academy were after the 3pts today to build the gap between themselves and Everton Ladies.

   Everton Ladies need every point they can get now, this season the club that finishes bottom of the FAWSL 1 will face relegation. Despite not having won a league match so far this season Everton Ladies are not being hammered week in week out haven't lost a match by more than 2 goals.

   I like the Stoke Gifford Stadium even though it is one of the furthest journey's I have to make in the FAWSL, always a great atmosphere. The weather looked threatening black clouds hanging over the stadium looked a good bet we'd be getting damp at some point during the match.

   Bristol Academy starting XI - Mary Earps, Grace McCatty, Jemma Rose (C), Jasmine Matthews, Loren Dykes, Natasha Harding, Angharad James, Sophie Ingle, Nicki Watts & Natalia Pablos Sanchon.

   Everton Ladies starting XI - Rachel Brown-Finnis, Vicky Jones, Fern Whelan, Lindsey Johnson, Danielle Turner, Alex Greenwood, Michelle Hinnigan (C), Brooke Chaplen, Kelly Jones, Nikita Parris & Simone Magill.

     It was the visitors in their kit of blue shirts, white shorts and navy socks to get the match under way against Bristol lining up in their red kit with white trim. The last thing you want to do when you're bottom of the table is concede an early goal.. that however is exactly what Everton did.

    After just 3 minutes Bristol are awarded a penalty as one of their players is brought down by Fern Whelan inside the box, a trip it is spanish striker Natalia Pablos Sanchon to step up and take the spot kick, sends Everton keeper Rachel Brown-Finnis the wrong way and slots the ball home 1-0.

   Bristol are enjoying possession winning the ball and using the wide positions well, Natasha Harding looking lively down the right, whilst Loren Dykes and Corinne Yorston operating ahead of her down the left are linking up well.

Natasha Harding looking to drive forwards with the ball

    Everton's chances are limited can't get the ball up front and make it stick allowing player to get up in support. Alex Greenwood tries her luck from long range in a central position 25 yards out lofts her strike over the crossbar.

    Sophie Ingle wins the ball in midfield plays a good through ball into the path of Sanchon pulling out to the left she fires a cross in the ball going behind the rapid running Harding. Soon after Harding has the ball on the right running in tries to pick out Sanchon the cross has too much on it and the ball is cleared.

   Brown-Finnis with a poor kick out of her box is latched onto by Sanchon, head down she is closing in for a shooting chance, is foiled by Lindsey Johnson who chases her down and slides in with a tackle to give Bristol a corner.

   Bristol double their lead, it's Sanchon again as the corner comes in from the left the ball is headed down by an Everton defender inside the box, drops to Sanchon who reacts instinctively leaning back gets a shot away the ball rifles into the top corner of the net 2-0, just 10 minutes on the clock.

   Despite going 2 goals down Everton actually begin to enjoy some sustained possession in the Bristol half, Danielle Turner getting forwards and linking up with Nikita Parris, the ball is fired across the box coming to Kelly Jones out wide right she has a shot the ball blazes over.

   Yorston beats the offside trap and has a surge towards goal puts a good cross into the centre looking for the head of Harding as she makes a great supporting run she can't quite get contact with the ball to beat Brown-Finnis who claims well under pressure.

   Simone Magill with a good interception outside the Bristol penalty box passes to Brooke Chaplen, she sends it wide right to Kelly Jones who plays in a dangerous cross, Bristol have numbers back to clear the threat.

   It's Bristol's turn to steal the ball off an Everton defender, this time it's Harding with the ball drives into the box on the edge of the six yard box she shoots but under challenge from Lindsey Johnson drags the effort wide across goal.

    Everton pull a goal back, the scorer Kelly Jones, the build up play good work down the left again between Turner and Parris, the cross comes into the box making a run Kelly Jones fires the ball back across Bristol keeper Mary Earps and into the net, 2-1.

    It's end to end stuff, both teams looking to attack wanting more goals. Harding has a go from 20 yards out coming in from the left, a theatrical dive from Brown-Finnis but her goal is safe the shot wide.

   Everton win a corner, Earps can't clear the ball, comes back in a 2nd corner is won, then a 3rd the ball coming to Greenwood at the near post she fires into the side netting from close range.

  Everton equalize, and what a strike from Brooke Chaplen to pull the scores level, the ball coming to the midfielder 25 yards out she meets it sweetly sending it arrowing over Earps and in to make it 2-2.

  Anything Everton can do however... Bristol restore their lead soon after with a wonder strike of their own. Through Nicki Watts as she wins the ball back in midfield has a look up and pulls the trigger maybe seeing Brown-Finnis off her line the Everton keeper back tracks but can't stop the shot going in over her 3-2.

    Brown-Finnis is called into action not long after making a great save at the feet of Harding as the Welsh international runs into the six yard box.

   An Everton free kick leads to Hinnigan volleying over the bar, a corner is given the ball coming in is played against the cross bar.

                                      Half-time Bristol Academy 3-2 Everton Ladies

   A lively and entertaining 1st half full of chances and 2 cracking strikes from Brooke Chaplen and Nicki Watts. Everton coming back into the match after the early set back of conceding 2 goals, Bristol restoring there lead at the end of the half, it was Bristol to kick off the 2nd half.

    It's the home side with the early pressure as Watts plays in a cross that Brown-Finnis comes out and claims. A cagey start to the half Everton aren't allowing midfield runners the space to break through centrally, but are conceding possession higher up the pitch. The visitors make an early substitution taking off Simone Magill and bringing on Paige Williams.

   Everton have a free kick 35 yards out as Jasmine Matthews fouls Chaplen, it's Everton captain Michelle Hinnigan to take, the ball is flighted into the box, Bristol get it away.

  Turns into a break as Bristol move the ball up the pitch quickly Harding is in on goal, Brown-Finnis comes rushing out of her box blocking the shot on the edge of the box, a good save.

   Bristol extend there lead not long after, with some good build up play down the right the ball comes to Yorston on the edge of the penalty box coming in from the left under challenge from Whelan she gets a shot away chipping the ball up and over Brown-Finnis and into the back of the net 4-2.

    The visitors give away a sloppy corner whilst trying to over play it at the back, Brown-Finnis comes for the ball punches the corner out wide, come to Loren Dykes she plays the ball into Sophie Ingle who has a shot on goal the strike going over the bar from 20 yards out.

    Vicky Jones fouls Sanchon out on the left flank, Yorston to deliver the set piece into the box Bristol captain Jemma Rose gets on the end of it her shot is straight at Brown-Finnis who makes the save.

    Everton make a 2nd change with Fern Whelan coming off to be replaced by Lucy Whipp which see's Alex Greenwood move into defence as Whipp takes up a forward role as the visitors look to get back into the game.

    It's Brown-Finnis that is the keeper called upon though as she comes running out of her box as Grace McCatty finds herself free for a run on goal on the right gets a shot away but it is off target.

   Bristol make a change bringing of Angharad James who had played for Wales against England just 2 days earlier, her replacement Frankie Brown.

  Brown-Finnis is struggling after that latest  move and Everton are forced into using their final substitution to replace their goalkeeper as she cannot continue. England U20 international Megan Walsh comes on.

   Hinnigan tries her luck from a long way out having won the ball to the left of the penalty box hasn't the height to trouble Earps and she claims the ball comfortably.

   Walsh has barely had time to settle in the Everton goal before she's picking the ball out of the back of the net as Bristol begin a fliud attacking move down the right as Harding wins the ball and plays it out to McCatty, she plays a cross into the box across the six yard line and their is Watts arriving to bundle the ball home to make it 5-2.

Bristols Nicki Watts on the attack

   Harding steals the ball of an Everton defenders toes out wide left looks to come inside opts to shoot early, Walsh though is well placed to take the ball.

  Harding is substituted having like James played for Wales on Thursday, Gabby Bird coming onto the pitch.

   Everton have a free kick the set piece played into the box is headed away by Ingle but only into the feet of Kelly Jones, 20 yards out she has a strike which sails over. Her twin sister Vicky is down after a heavy challenge, looks to be struggling but with all of their subs used, she has to battle on.

   Everton have another free kick in a dangerous position central 25 yard out it's Paige Williams to take with her left foot up and over the wall it won't dip in time to trouble Earps as she watches it over.

   Williams out wide left plays in a deep cross that comes to Kelly Jones on the opposite flank she plays the ball into the box Lucy Whipp's effort is blocked spinning away for a corner. From the set piece Earps claims well.

   Lindsey Johnson almost scores an own goal as she heads a cross from Sanchon onto the post, before Everton scramble it away.

   Nikita Parris finds a way through breaking into the box Earps saves as she shots the ball is loose inside the box there is a bit of a scramble as Bristol back in numbers manage to keep the ball out.

   Bristol make a final change the last of their Welsh internationals that played on Thursday comes off, Sophie Ingle, Alex Windell coming on for the final minutes.

    The last attack is Bristols a fierce cross driven across the six yard box that no one can get on the end of, Everton concede a corner that is cleared, the final whistle blows and Bristol Academy win the match 5-2 to move away from danger and into the comfort zone of mid-table.

   A spirited fightback from Everton in the 1st half to pull it back to 2-2 they will be disappointed to have conceded 5 at the other end, stay bottom.

   A highly entertaining match with loads of action, 7 goals and several of them good team goals with some great flashes of individual skill.. and the rain managed to stay away too.

 

   

  

Women's Football East launches

  

     Annoucing the arrival of my new website http://womensfootballeast.com

  An idea I have had for sometime and has finally become a reality. Enjoy covering women's football via this blog, the natural progression was to increase my attempts to help promote and cover women's football by adding a website.

    The website however is entitled Women's Football East and it differs from the blog in that it's content will be exclusively from the East of England or more importantly the women's football clubs that play there.

    If you have taken the time to read this blog you will know that I am a huge fan of the FAWSL albeit without a particular club, enjoy travelling to the various grounds up and down the country and supporting the women that want the play the sport.

    I'm a Norfolk boy however and a part of me would love to see a women's football club from the eastern region do well and rise up the leagues maybe eventually claim a spot in the FAWPL South or even FAWSL.

   Right now the highest tier in the women's football pyramid (recently restored by the FA) where you'll find a club from the East of England is the FAWPL South East Division One the 4th tier.

   That is then where Women's Football East will begin it's coverage.

  Plenty of women's football to be found below that tier in the East of England and Women's Football East will cover that to - the regional set up too. The Eastern Region Women's Football League. Three leagues in all the Premier, as well as Division One North & South.

    Below that tier is the grassroots of the game the county league set ups in various different guises and numbers of clubs and leagues Women's Football East will look to bring you the information from Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire.

   That is quite a bit of women's football and I will have my work cut out that's for sure but very much looking forwards to the challenge.

  There is little content on the website right now, it's a new hosting after I switched late on from my original provider, most of what I do is self taught so I'm learning as I go along really finding it fascinating creating new content. I'm a bit of a stats geek so league tables and other such number crunching is something I love doing.

   From small beginnings my hope is the website will grow and do a job in helping to promote the women's game.

   Right now the aim is to bring you updated league tables, fixtures and results. After that directories and news, club info and a blog. Match reports will be as regular as the matches I can get to, will work in conjunction with the blog.

   Will run a separate twitter feed for Women's Football East so please give @WF_East a follow, there I will post as much info on women's football in the East of England as I can.

    Will also create a facebook page in due course.

  Of course your feedback is always appreciated let me know what else you think the webite should cover. Maybe point out something that you think I'm doing wrong.. or right.

   Will be busy uploading content to the website and tweaking it here and there over the coming weeks, by no means the finished result.. but hopefully a good start.

  
   

Match Report - Cambridge WFC v Watford Ladies Development Squad - Pre-season Friendly

    Been a while since I've had a journey of under an hour to watch a women's football match having been following the FAWSL during the summer months. It was good to be back on the local trail as the 2014/15 'winter' leagues prepare for their new seasons. A chance to return to Ely City FC and watch Cambridge WFC back in action as they took on Watford Ladies Development Squad.

         Player Sponsorship for the New Season



Cambridge WFC's Olivia Abbott

   A friendly match isn't usually a match I write a report on, however in this case it was an opportune fixture, falling as it did during the week that Cambridge WFC and their partner @CWFCPressOffice that do great work promoting the club announced my sponsorship, through this blog -  supportingwomensfootball.blogspot.com of their player Olivia Abbott.

                                                                                    
     I'm pleased to continue my association with Cambridge WFC for the new 2014/15 by sponsoring a player for a 2nd season. I think it is a good and rewarding thing to do and a way to show my support of the women's game. Olivia is a defender and has been a part of the 1st team on a regular basis since she has been with the club. I wish Olivia all the best for the coming season.

                    

 The Match Action

 

     To the match action, returning to Ely City FC where Cambridge WFC play their home matches it was a great day weather wise nice and warm, a few dark clouds around that threatened rain but none came. The grass on the pitch looked a little long in places but the main thing I noticed upon arrival at the ground was that the visitors outnumbered the home side by at least two to one. Watford Ladies Development had brought a very large squad with them.



Watford Ladies Development Squad

At one point it looked like all of them were going to start the match as they did the prep talk before kick-off. As it was the mandatory 11 took to the pitch as the referee blew for kick-off.

 Cambridge WFC had a squad of 14 for the match with players unavailable through injury and away on holiday. Of those that were available three were new faces, Chloe Houston and Charlotte Crisp, along with one player that I know well from following women's football in Norfolk and one of the most recognised and talented players in the county Becky Russell, formerly of Thorpe United Ladies.

    Along with new faces in the playing staff, Cambridge WFC have a new head coach, Steve Edwards, coming to the club from Watford Ladies where he worked as assistant coach.

    Cambridge WFC squad - Liz Pamplin, Emma Jenkins, Olivia Abbott, Jordan Holland, Becca Fay, Kim Motley, Becky Russell, Emily Reed, Nuala Wayne, Laura Bright, Hannah Bodily, Faith Hewitt, Chloe Houston & Charlotte Crisp.
  (colours - sky blue shirts & socks, with navy shorts)

  It was the visitors to kick off the friendly. As the game would develop this was going to be very much a game of two halves.. but you'll have to read on to find out why. It's Watford with the possession early on working the ball down the pitch playing a cross in from the left it is Liz Pamplin in the Cambridge goal who has to deal with the 1st cross taking the ball comfortably.

    It isn't long before the ball comes back in a shot from inside the box that flashes across the face of goal and wide. Cambridge's Laura Bright gives away a free kick on the edge of the D a good shooting position central for Watford, Liz Pamplin sets a good wall and shooting around it the keeper is well placed to make the save.

     Coming back into the game Cambridge's best outlet is down their right channel where, Becky Russell is keeping wide looking to receive the ball and run at the Watford defence looking to find lone striker Nuala Wayne.

    Winning the ball back Watford break quickly using the flanks well a cross is driven in, this time Olivia Abbott running back to cover the near post intercepts the cross putting the ball behind for a corner.

    Watford have Cambridge pushed back, they are defending well as a unit however no allowing any space to break into centrally force Watford to shoot from distance, 25 yards out Pamplin is behind the shot all the way.

    The ball is won back from Watford in their own half, Laura Bright seeing Becky Russell free out on the right plays a good ball into her. Russell has the ball at her feet drives towards goal has a strike from the corner of the penalty box, driven hard to the near post, Watford's keeper spills the ball as she makes the save swerves loose behind her, but she recovers quickly to pounce upon the ball as it comes back off the post.

   

Watford come back strongly, Pamplin making another save from a 25 yard shot aimed straight at her. A cross is fired in from the left going behind the Cambridge defence running back the ball comes to an unmarked Watford attacker, leaning back as she shoots the shot is screwed wide of goal.

   Watford have Cambridge's defence beaten moments later as a looping cross is played over the on rushing Pamplin coming in from the left inside the six yard box the Watford attacker tries meet the ball coming down to volley into the empty net but the touch is too heavy the ball spinning high and wide Cambridge clear.

    In another Watford attack, Pamplin is hurt as she comes to claim a cross with an attacker closing in.

   Late in the half Emily Reed with good possesssion of the ball in midfield plays the ball into the feet of Wayne she lays it into the feet of the supporting Bright, she shoots from 30 yards out her drive going wide of the Watford goal.

                            Half-time Cambridge WFC 0-0 Watford Ladies Development

   A solid defensive display from Cambridge, Watford with the bulk of the possession and the chances. I did say though at the beginning of this report that this was going to be a game of two halves. No more so than Watford putting out a new starting XI for the 2nd half, this one a younger looking one too. A fitness test then for Cambridge's smaller squad we would see as the home side kicked off the 2nd half.

    Watford have the 1st attack of the 2nd half a free kick 25 yards out that is played high and wide. Pinned back somewhat in the 1st half meant Nuala Wayne had very little support up top for Cambridge, has Faith Hewitt and Charlotte Crisp looking to get further up the pitch now with Russell offering width wide right.

Cambridge's Becky Russell

    Great work from Nuala Wayne as she turns her marker on the edge of the box cuts back inside and shoots across the keeper who makes the save pushing the ball wide the visitors concede a corner from the loose ball. Cambridge take the lead as the ball is played into the box, a good height and the header is from Laura Bright from inside the six yard box to make it 1-0.

     The play and possession is all Cambridge's 2nd half, Wayne with a turn and volley from 25 yards that stings the keepers gloves. It's soon 2-0 and the scorer is Wayne as she recieves the ball into her feet turns on the edge of the box to the right loops it over the keeper and into the back of the net 2-0.

   Wayne beats the offside trap, cutting down the left channel into the box she shapes to shoot near post, pulls her effort wide.

   The 3rd goal is scored by full back Emma Jenkins as she wins the ball back from Watford high up the pitch powers forwards and releases a strike from 25-30 yards out, flies over the keeper and into the goal 3-0.

    Almost immediately after Watford are guilty of sloppy play at the back as Faith Hewitt latches onto a poor ball, has a strike from outside the box and buries it into the back of the net 4-0.

     Not long after Hewitt gets another chance to strike from almost the same position the ball played into her this time she turns and shoots sending it to the right of the keeper and into the back of the net 5-0.

     Watford's goal has been peppered 2nd half, their keeper does however make a fine save at the near post from a low drive from Wayne. Their has been little by way of a attack from the visitors 2nd half as they struggle to retain the ball. Late on Pamplin is called into action parrying a long cross away from danger.

     The last action of the half a long range strike from Watford that won't dip in time to trouble the Cambridge goal as the final whistle blows and the match ends Cambridge WFC 5-0 Watford Ladies Development.

    An interesting friendly in that Watford used 2 different starting XI's but then it could have been totally disrupted by constant rolling on and off of subs. A good test for Cambridge 1st half a solid defensive display under pressure, a useful exercise in attack 2nd half that won't do the confidence any harm going into the new season FAWPL South East Division One that is just a week away.

    Cambridge WFC begin their campaign on Sun 24th Aug against Enfield Town LFC a 2pm KO at Ely City FC.



  
          

Match Report - Watford Ladies v Reading FC Women FAWSL 2

     One of my aims at the start of the new FAWSL season was to  watch all of the teams play from both leagues WSL 1 and the newly formed WSL 2. To that end I had watch 17 of the 18 teams that participate in the 2 leagues, there was only 1 team left to watch - Watford Ladies FC.

    Although waking up to the weather we had this morning it didn't look good as to whether the fixture between Watford Ladies and their opponents Reading FC Women would be on. The rain had been falling heavily in the south and was travelling up the country. Watford Ladies though tweeted that they were confident their pitch at Berkhamsted Town FC would be ok to play on come 2pm.

     I left Norfolk unsure and ready to turn around if things changed. Drove through the storm and out along the A428 to brighter sky's some blue mixed amongst the heavy grey clouds. Found the ground ok parking along side a picturesque canal. Watford Ladies were absolutely right the pitch upon 1st inspection looked great had drained well. Playing at Berkhamsted Town FC a compact ground there is one main grandstand running down one side of the pitch and covered areas behind both goals, and with the clouds looming it was no doubt going to be needed during the match.

    The game on it was a clash between 3rd and 4th in FAWSL 2 with Watford Ladies having had a good run of late to move them up to 3rd place in the table on 14pts after 8 matches played. Reading FC Women were a point and a place behind on 13 after 7 matches played. With leaders Sunderland Ladies on 22pts at the start of play and 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles moving onto 21pts after beating London Bees at the Keepmoat Stadium 7-0 last evening it was a vital game for both teams the 3pts needed to keep them in the hunt for the title.

     Watford Ladies starting XI - Lauren Davey (C) Georgia Mays, Chloe Gunn, Renee Hector, Stacie Donnelly, Jo Wilson, Josie Green, Megan Wynne, Cally Rowell, Emma Beckett & Leighanne Robe.

    Reading FC Women starting XI - Nicky Davies, Rebecca Jane, Molly Bartrip, Kirsty McGee (C), Lois Roche, Bonnie Horwood, Harriet Scott, Lauren Bruton, Georgie Giddings, Fran Kirby & Melissa Fletcher.

      The teams were out on the pitch and that was the cue for the heavens to open and the rain to fall, heavily as the home side Watford in their yellow shirts and socks with black shorts got the game under way against Reading lined up in their white and blue hooped shirts blue shorts and white socks.

     Fran Kirby back for Reading after her goal scoring debut for the England Women's side last weekend against Sweden was soon on the attack with the ball at her feet putting in a good cross from the left channel, Watford's defence rising high to clear the danger at the far post. Thunder and lightening now the rain is even heavier the conditions leading to a nervy opening with the ball not being retained by either team for long.

    With the horrible conditions Watford have the opportunity to put a free kick into the box, the ball is dealt with well by the Reading defence. Both playing with one up top the midfield is crowded with no player finding an outlet on the flank to play the ball to.

      Fran Kirby picks the ball up in the middle of the park has a run forwards central she jinks left, then right and unleashes a strike from 25 yards out angling for the top left corner Watford goalkeeper Lauren Davey's dive is in vain as the ball goes past her, a wonderful strike and solo effort from Kirby 0-1 Reading.

     Watford are struggling to get the ball into their attackers and make it stick are getting some joy down the left win a corner, the set piece is at a good height Reading keeper Nicky Davies calls and claims the ball well. Set pieces are racking up for the home side win another on the left outside the box. The ball is smashed into the two player wall Molly Bartrip felt that one was a powerful strike.

     Watford make an early change Georgia Mays injured comes off to be replaced by Hollie Wride. The rain has finally stopped and the pitch is even bathed in bright sunshine. Both sides have corners that both defences deal with well, one Watford corner played in landing on the roof of the net.

     Watford have a chance from a ball played over the top from Megan Wynne, striker Jo Wilson is on it poised to strike the ball as she enters the box, Davies is off her line quickly though to smother the danger.

     Bonnie Horwood holds the ball up well in the centre plays it out wide left for Fran Kirby to chase the pass looks heavy but the pacy Kirby keeps it in has a run into the box is tackled the ball going out for a corner.

      Emma Beckett plays a good long range pass out to the right for Cally Rowell, she gets the ball into the box Reading though have numbers back to defend. Wide right is where Watford have been finding the most space with Rowell having the ball and looking to play it into the box.

     Rebecca Jane for Reading makes a good run down the left puts a good ball in across the Watford goal, team mate Melissa Fletcher with the chance sends her header wide at the far post.

     Fletcher has another chance but again the effort is wide of goal after good build up play down the right between Bruton and Kirby.

                                Half-time Watford Ladies 0-1 Reading FC Women

    Was a tight and nervy 1st half with Fran Kirby's moment of magic being the difference between the two sides. Clear cut chances were few with neither keeper overly tested and Watford would need to do something about that if they wanted to get back into the match.

    The visitors kick off the 2nd half have made a change at the break bring on Eloise Wilson for Harriet Scott. Reading are on the attack right away the ball is fed into Melissa Fletcher inside the 18 yard box she turns and shoots the ball is deflected wide by a Watford defender for a corner kick.

     Reading are retaining the ball well pinning Watford back in their half, midfielder Georgie Giddings relieving the presssure somewhat with a sliced shoot from 20 yards out that goes well wide of goal.

    Not for long though as Reading are back on the attack Lauren Bruton bursts into the box with the ball at her feet shifts it to have a shot from the corner of the six yard box a sliding tackle comes in from Chloe Gunn she is brought down. The referee waves the penalty appeals away looked a good shout but play continues.

    Fletcher beats the offside trap this time the Reading forward looking to have a run at goal, Watford defender Renee Hector is back with a great covering tackle to prevent the goal scoring chance.

    Watford make their 2nd change bringing on Kim Farrow for Jo Wilson up front. Does little to stem the Reading attacks this time it's Kirby the provider playing Bonnie Horwood in the midfielder finding herself inside the box has Davey charging towards her tries to stab the ball past the goalkeeper but Davey makes a good save with her legs.

    Moments later Davey is called into action again a shot from distance from Rebecca Jane the ball is dipping going under the bar Davey tips the ball over for a corner.

    Watford win a corner the delivery is good 2 Watford players rise to meet the ball it is sent wide at the near post. Having rode out the period of pressure Reading exerted at the start of the half as they looked to extend their lead Watford enjoy a spell of sustained possession.

    Reading make a double change, taking off Lois Roche and Melissa Fletcher, for Leigh Nicol and Rebekah Haines. The subs combine instantly with Nicol winning the ball and playing it through to Haines in the right channel, puts in a great cross on the by line Bruton is running onto it but under Watford pressure puts her shot wide took a nick a corner is given. Davey does well to punch the ball away before a Reading head can make contact with the ball.

    Kirby has the ball running towards the Watford goal defender Leighanne Robe does well forcing her wide the cross coming in across the goal line is cleared.

     The 2nd goal isn't long in coming however Lauren Bruton wins the ball in the middle and plays in Kirby this time she is one on one with Davey the keeper coming out to try and put her off, Kirby waits till she commits going to ground Kirby sends it past her and into the back of the net 0-2.

   Watford's best chances have come from set pieces Emma Beckett delivers a great ball towards the far post Davies tries to claim but the ball strikes the bar drops back down into the six yard box a scramble ensues before the referee stops play to treat an injured player.

    Kirby almost has her hat-trick as she is inside the box with the ball at her feet again Robe pushes her wide but this time she gets her shot away from an acute angle the effort going across the goal and wide.

     Watford make their final change bring on striker Magda Mosengo for Stacie Donnelly. Isn't long before the no 20 has a go for goal an effort from 20 yards Nicky Davies though is behind it all the way.

   Reading have a 3rd goal from a Watford error a too short back pass that Lauren Bruton is alert to and chasing down plays the ball against the advancing Davey it is deflected wide, Davey back pedals as Bruton latches onto the ball shoots sending it under the keeper to make it 0-3.

     Into the closing minute Watford searching for a goal have another corner this time Hector up form the back gets her head to the ball the attempt goes wide.

    Down the other end good play down their right sees Georgie Giddings with a chance to have a strike on goal but fires the shot wide.

    Into injury time and Kirby get's her hat-trick again good individual play as she steals the ball of a Watford defender and races towards goal from the left shoots from inside the box sending the ball into the corner of the net to make the scoreline 0-4.

    The last chance of the game goes to the home side Watford's Mosengo with another blast from 20 yards has venom and swerving it angles away from goal narrowly wide.

                                     Full time Watford Ladies 0-4 Reading FC Women

     The result sees Reading climb above Watford in the table onto 16pts, 5 behind Doncaster Rovers Belles and some 9pts back from leaders Sunderland Ladies as they extended their lead at the top with a 4-0 home win over Millwall Lionesses. A lot to do if Reading hope to challenge for the title however they will have a say yet as both 1st and 2nd placed teams have to visit them yet this season.

    A disppointing performance for Watford competed well with Reading 1st half but struggled to deal with their movement 2nd half.

    In todays other FAWSL 2 matches Yeovil Town Ladies beat Durham Women 3-1 and Aston Villa Ladies secured a 2-1 home win over Oxford United Women.

 

 

 

Match Report - Sunderland Ladies v Oxford United Women - FAWSL 2

     My weekend up in the North East continued with another rescheduled fixture thrown out there to tempt me as Sunderland Ladies moved their fixture against Oxford United Women from a 2:00pm kick off to an 11:30am one meaning it was just about doable and still get to Hartlepool in time to watch England Women take on Sweden Women in an International friendly their kick off time at 2:00pm. The plan from Sunderland Ladies to also give their fans the opportunity to attend the friendly match too... good call.

    Tempted I was, it was also a good opportunity to see Sunderland Ladies play at home at the Hetton Centre too, having seen them play away 3 times this season. Undefeated at the top of FAWSL 2 having played 7, won 6 and drawn 1, against 2nd placed Doncaster Rovers Belles last time out, and with their main title rivals drawing 0-0 with away to Durham Women yesterday (see last match report) they had an opportunity to go 4 points clear at the top of the table.

    Oxford United Women are at the wrong end of the FAWSL 2 table having had a tough start to life in the new league having played 7, won 1, drawn 1 and lost 5 were just above Durham Women at the bottom on 4 points. Yesterdays match proved however there were no easy matches in WSL 2.

    The Hetton Centre is easy enough to find following the sat nav, is a new build the stadium having one stand on the side of the pitch towards one end, good facilities and standing all around the pitch. A grass pitch it looked to be in very good condition, the weather was cool, a little breezy, over cast clouds around rain threatened.

    Sunderland Ladies starting XI - Rachael Laws, Abby Holmes, Hayley Sharp, Stephanie Bannon (C), Victoria Greenwell, Lauren Briggs, Kelly McDougall, Rachel Furness, Rebekah Bass, Sophie Williams & Keira Ramshaw.

    Oxford United Ladies starting XI - Demi Lambourne, Jemma Connor-Iommi, Amy Chivers, Sahara Osbourne-Ricketts (C), Megan Alexander, Kayleigh Hines, Helen King, Katherine Nutman, Laura Low, Katie Stanley & Lauren Allison.

    It was the home side in their red and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks to kick the match off, in opposition Oxford United Women were in their away strip purple shirts with a white stripe on the right, white shorts and socks.

   Without Beth Mead away on U20s World Cup duty it was once again Keira Ramshaw to lead the line for Sunderland, supported right and left by Rebekah Bass and Sophie Williams. It was the home side with the early pressure winning a free kick 30 yards out wide on the left captain Stephanie Bannon plays a good delivery into the box Oxford's Jemma Connor-Iommi rises well to head the ball out of danger.

      Sunderland's Sophie Williams has the ball in the left channel dries to the by line passes back to Victoria Greenwell the supporting left back playing in a dangerous cross along the six yard line that Oxford keeper Demi Lambourne can't come for goes through to Keira Ramshaw she manages to lob Lambourne the ball goes over the keeper but up onto the bar and recovering Oxford clear their box.

     At times Oxford look to have 5 in the back line as they are pushed back trying to defend their goal the defence and midfield squeezed up try to get the ball up to their lone striker Lauren Allison with the ball at her feet has a run at Sunderland's defenders outnumbering her they win possession back.

    Both Sunderland full backs have the space to run into on the right Abby Holmes makes a strong run pushes her way into the box where she is brought down a trip from Oxford captain Sahara Osbourne-Ricketts, penalty given. It's Kelly McDougall to take and she converts the penalty into a goal sending it past the diving Lambourne's right 1-0.

    Early lead just what Sunderland wanted, just what Oxford didn't want. However the visitors don't let their heads drop, midfielder Helen King has a blast from long range that is blocked by a Sunderland defender. Out on the right Katie Stanley is finding some space to run into has time to put a good cross ball in Sunderland again defend well.

    The home side are controlling possession however as much as Oxford are working hard to win the ball they can't keep hold of it. Rebekah Bass on the right beats the offside trap looks to have a run on goal, on loan Liverpool Ladies defender Megan Alexander stays with her and deals with the threat well.

    Helen King has another go from well outside the box swerving the ball turns away from goal and wide. Demi Lambourne is called into action making a good save with her feet as Ramshaw bursts through the defence into the box.

    The referee misses a shirt pull by Connor-Iommi on Sophie Williams as the tries to steal past her into the box. Lambourne has to pull off another save this one from Bass tipping in round for a corner.

    Oxford have a goal disallowed is an offside but good build up play see's Laura Low play the ball into Lauren Allison she shots the ball goes past Sunderland keeper Rachael Laws it doesn't count however.

    A good contest both teams putting in the challenges, Sunderland though are winning the chances as they rack up Ramshaw has a shot blocked, Rachel Furness plays the ball to Bass on the right her effort put across the Oxford goal and wide. The visitors limited to long range shots the last of the half coming from Stanley goes over the Sunderland goal.

                          Half-time Sunderland Ladies 1-0 Oxford United Women

   The rain starts to fall steadily as Oxford get the 2nd half underway, but straight away Sunderland have the ball and are on the attack Bass has the ball in the back of the net but it ruled out for offside.

    Oxford get the ball in the home sides half for a spell, Helen King putting a good ball across the six yard line no one is there to claim before Laws can scoop the ball up. Oxford win the ball back a cross is put in from a long way out on the right Lauren Allison rising can't get a clean header on it puts the attempt wide of goal.

    Bass with a strong drive on the right wins a corner off Alexander. The set piece goes through the crowd in the box missing everyone. A sloppy corner is given away by Osbourne-Ricketts. The ball coemes in a flick from Furness at the near post that Lambourne does well to save.

    Allison has the ball at her feet pushing out to the left of the box slips her marker and puts a fantastic cross in along the six yard line Helen King is runnig in slides but can't quite get there.

    King heads narrowly over the bar minutes later from an Oxford corner, are giving Sunderland a game now. The home side make the 1st change bringing on Emma Kelly for Lauren Briggs.

    Lambourne is called into action 1st to save a shot from distance by Furness, then at close range as Bass plays the ball into Ramshaw inside the box. The game is getting scrappy players are getting fouled and hurt the referee has to do some talking to players to calm things down.

    Lambourne is the busier of the 2 keepers Ramshaw is through on goal once again, outside the box opts to shoot early Lambourne makes the save. Oxford make a double change, King and Stanley off. Louise Fellows and new signing Gemma Simmonds on both going into the midfield.

     It does little to stem Sunderland's attacking play Bass she wins a corner after starting and finishing an attack. The ball comes in from the left corner and there is Sunderland defender Hayley Sharp to head the ball home and make it 2-0.

     Sunderland are pressing Oxford now Williams plays the ball to Holmes her shot is blocked inside the box by Osbourne-Ricketts. Lambourne makes another great save as Ramshaw is played through on goal. The ball is smashed against the Oxford cross bar then Lambourne saves from a Bass shot.

    Late changes for the home side, as Tyler Dodds and Brogan McHugh come on for Bass and Ramshaw. Sunderland have the final chance of the game an over the top ball an over the top ball that see's  Lambourne produce another great save from Sophie Williams.

     Full time and Sunderland Ladies win beating Oxford United Women 2-0 and sees them move 4 points clear at the top of WSL 2. A good performance from the home side.

    Oxford United Women slip to the bottom of the table on goal difference. Another loss but from the matches I've seen them in this season a much improved display. The WSL 2 league might be in it's 1st season but it is proving to be a competive league results have to be earned and that makes for entertaining games.

   

    

   

Match Report - Durham Women FC v Doncaster Rovers Belles - FAWSL 2

     An early start this morning hitting the road for a trip up the A1 to the North East for another weekend of women's football. A chance to take a 1st look at one of the two remaining FAWSL 2 teams I have yet to see play live this season - Durham Women FC.

    The early start due to the earlier than usual kick-off time at 11:00am. The game had been moved forwards by a day also than originally scheduled, which was fortunate as England Women take on Sweden in an international friendly in Hartlepool tomorrow allowing myself and others to take advantage and make a weekend of it.

      Durham Women FC have the unenviable position of propping up the FAWSL 2 league table after a tough start to life in the league having played 6, winning 1 and losing 5 on 3 points. Challenging opponents today in Doncaster Rovers Belles, sitting 2nd in the league table still unbeaten having played 7, won 5 and drawn 2. Were 2 points behind league leaders Sunderland Ladies and with them not playing until tomorrow this match represented an opportunity for Doncaster Rovers Belles to take top spot and put the pressure onto their rivals.

     Durham Women FC, the Wildcats, play at New Ferens Park, not too far off the A1 itself easy enough to find. Is a 3G surface the ground having one main stand running along the side of the pitch. Refreshments available I was in need of a cup of tea more than anything else. The weather was pleasant but overcast rain looked to be in the air had fallen over night to, hopefully it would stay away for the match.

     Durham Women FC starting XI - Danielle Hill, Ellie Christon, Sarah Wilson, Caroline Dixon (C), Jennifer King, Beth Hepple, Emily Scott, Zoe Ness, Rebecca Hanratty, Jordan Atkinson & Beth Jennings.

    Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI - Nicola Hobbs, Ashleigh Mills, Rhiannon Roberts, Leanda Little (C), Victoria Williams, Kasia Lipka, Beth England, Millie Bright, Sue Smith, Reanne Thomas & Courtney Sweetman-Kirk.

     With regular full backs, Lauren Cresswell not in the squad and Lyndsey Cunningham on the bench it was Ashleigh Mills playing at right back and Victoria Williams at left back for Doncaster who kicked off thr game in their away kit of red shirts and socks with black shorts against Durham in their kit of white shirts and socks with blue shorts.

     Both sides have a number of tall players in their sides and early on Doncaster win a corner which is delivered in well by Sue Smith from the right, up from the back Doncaster captain Leandra Little is adjudged to have fouled Durham goalkeeper Danielle Hills as she attempts to win the ball.

    Doncaster are looking to press forwards in the opening minutes try to play a couple of through balls into midfield runners Millie Bright almost through save for a great interception to steal the ball off her foot. Playing just one up top Durham are giving Doncaster's full back space to run into Ashleign Mills on the right breaks with a good burst of pace past the Durham defence gets a fierce cross in that Hill can't claim Reanne Thomas is coming in at the far post can't control the ball as she sends it back across the goal and is cleared.

    The play is starting to even out a little Durham winning the ball back and looking to get it forwards to striker Beth Jennings. Jordan Atkinson operating down the right for Durham is getting some joy winning the ball back and having a run looking to find the run of Jennings, Little makes a vital interception to stop the move.

    Atkinson and Jennings link up again for another attack this one halted by the offside flag. Playing just the one up front is allowing Doncaster's defenders a lot of time on the ball, with space to run into central defender Rhiannon Roberts takes the ball the length of the pitch unmarked lays it off to the equally unmarked Mills who fires the ball into the penalty area Courtney Sweetman-Kirk gets on the end of it her shot blocked at point blank range.

     Atkinson with another break down the right channel launches a cross towards the near post Jennings is there rising to header the ball can't get strong enough contact her attempt goes across the six yard box and wide.

     Doncaster break with purpose the move leading to Sweetman-Kirk playing the ball through to Reanne Thomas in on goal Hill comes out to save the ball at her feet. Another Doncaster attack finds the ball coming into Sweetman-Kirk's feet on the edge of the box can't quite free the ball up for a shot lays it wide to Mills she plays it back to Sweetman-Kirk who gets a shot away this time curling towards the far post low Hill is alert and makes the save.

     Good work from Sue Smith out on the left beating her marker passes to the supporting Beth England who shoots from 25 yards her effort wide of goal. Smith this time play in Sweetman-Kirk inside the box she twists and turns trying to find away through but Durham are back in numbers and clear the danger.

     Beth England wins the ball back in midfield drives forwards passes to Sue Smith on the right this time she runs towards the 18 yard box turns inside to have a shot on her left foot a curling effort again Hill is there to make the save.

     At the other end a strong run by Rebecca Hanratty sees her put a cross into the box Doncaster goalkeeper Nicola Hobbs comes out to claim the ball. In the closing minutes of the half the ball is moving from end to end neither keeper is troubled however both defences standing firm.

                          Half-time Durham Women FC 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

      A strong defensive display from Durham in the 1st half have worked hard as a team to win the ball getting it forwards with limited success, Doncaster have had the better of the chances only to find Durham keeper Danielle Hill well placed to take the ball.

     The Wildcats make a change at half time Rebecca Hanratty coming off, her replacement Jess Round as they kick off the 2nd half as a little rain starts to fall.

    Doncaster have the early possession the ball with Sweetman-Kirk inside the box she can't get her shot away an ends up fouling Durham captain Caroline Dixon. Millie Bright has the ball strikes a firm shot towards goal, Hill is there though to make the save.

    The early pressure Doncaster have put on Durham is eased with a free kick being awarded to the home side on the half way line Caroline Dixon plays the dead ball into the box Zoe Ness rises for the ball, with her though is Leandra Little and Doncaster get the ball away.

   Durham though are coming into the half more win a corner that is played into the box going through the crowd comes out to Ness on the edge of the six yard box her shot though is high and wild. With Jess Round in midfield, Ness is having more time on the ball influencing the play. Doncaster make a change Lyndsey Cunningham coming on for Beth England.

      Cunningham goes to left back with Victoria Williams moving into the midfield for the visitors. Mills has a chance to put a ball in from the right a fierce effort towards the near post that Hill needs two attempts to gather.

     Smith has the ball at her feet again tries to go it alone but is stopped by good sliding tackle from Dixon. Sweetman-Kirk comes off for Doncaster to be replaced by Jemma Purfield.

    Durham work the ball down the left a cross coming into Jennings on the edge of the box, she gets a shot away smashing it straight into Little the ball spinning loose comes to Beth Hepple her shot is blazed over.

     There's frustration creeping into Doncaster's play as they struggle to find away through Durham's defences. Bright has a shot from long range is deflected as it strikes Ness, Hill though see's it all the way and makes the save.

     Kasia Lipka decides to have a go for goal from distance a great chance it is arrowing for the top corner needs an acrobatic save from Hill to tip it over the bar.

     Millie Bright is through on goal a powerful run looks set to pull the trigger inside the box, Dixon makes a fantastic saving tackle to prod the ball away for another corner.

    The minutes are ticking down Doncaster are throwing everything forwards, Durham are throwing everything into defending their goal. The visitors make their final change Reanne Thomas coming off for Molly Johnson. Little goes forwards.

    If anything Durham are getting more possession allowing them to attack with Jennings holding the ball up well allowing team mates to join her a shot from long range is put narrowly wide of Nicola Hobbs goal by Jennifer King. At the other end Little tries to lob Hill from a long way out receiving the ball wide left the attempt wide.

     Jennings having run herself into the ground is taken off to be replaced by Vic Linsley in the closing minutes as Doncaster look for a winning goal.

    It almost comes from Ashleigh Mills! Hill is beaten for once from a stinging long range effort, the ball though smashes into the cross bar and down into the six yard box and cleared for a corner.

    The last attack is Durham's as Atkinson with the ball inside the box turns and shoots Hobbs saving is it goes narrowly wide for a corner. The corner comes through to Ness who putting her foot through the ball smashes it behind the goal.

                                               Full time and the game ends goalless 0-0.

    A great result for Durham, getting a point off a promotion chasing side. Was a solid team performance defended well and had to soak up a lot of Doncaster pressure. They move onto 4 points still bottom but a performance to build on.

    Doncaster will be hugely frustrated and disappointed with this result a real blow dropping 2 more points in the title hunt they stay 2nd a point off the top, created a host of chances were dominant in possession but couldn't find a way past Hill.

     Still from a spectators point of view that was an entertaining game even for a 0-0.