Match Report - Royston Town Ladies v Sawbridgeworth Town WFC - FA Women's Cup

     It's an FA Cup weekend with 140 women's teams playing in the 1st Qualifying Rd of the competition right across the country. Although at this stage of the FA Women's Cup the ties are regionalized to limit the amount of travelling under taken. The bulk of the teams are from the regional league set ups with the others entering from the county leagues below.

    Had a few ties to choose from but the clash I fancied was Royston Town Ladies v Sawbridgeworth Town WFC. An all Hertfordshire clash, Royston Town Ladies also known as The Crows compete in the Eastern Region Women's Football League Division One South.

    Their opponents, Sawbridgeworth Town WFC, The Robins play in the same division. Have played a game in the FA Women's Cup already this season competing in the Preliminary Rd where they overcame a team playing in the league above the ERWFL Premier Division, Stevenage Ladies 1-0.

     More or less straight down the A10 from Norfolk, the venue for the match Royston Town FC. Compact ground surrounded by housing, a small covered stand on one side with a nice clubhouse. The weather still decent as we approach the end of September warm with cloud cover.

     Royston Town Ladies starting XI - Grace Leslie, Rebekah Fisk, Katie Seymour, Paige Rolfe, Gemma Barlow (C), Amy Cooper, Heather Parete, Emma Phipps, Jo Rutherford, Amie Jones, & Georgia Gannaway.
      subs - Stacey Hassen, Victoria Rutherford & Hannah Mardell

     Sawbridgeworth Town WFC starting XI - Rebecca Tyson, Louise Terry, Georgia Jackson, Jackie Day (C), Ann Anstey, Jacqueline Stott, Jemma Whiteman, Emma Parker, Kelly Holesworth, Shannon Hardinges & Hannah Fowler.
      subs - Claire Thompson & Chloe MacDonald.

     It's Royston to kick off wearing white shitrs & socks with black shorts against Sawbridgeworth lined up in black and red hooped shirts and socks with black shorts. Straight from kick off the home side are putting the visitors under pressure getting players in and around the box, the move ending with the ball being played back to Royston's Heather Parete who tries a speculative effort from 25 yards that goes straight into the gloves of Sawbridgeworth keeper Rebecca Tyson.

      Royston striker Jo Rutherford links up with Georgia Gannaway play a good one/two with the former dragging her shot inside the box across the face of goal. Soon after it's Gannaway who drags her shot across goal as Rutherford holding the ball up on lays it off into her run.

    For all their pressing Royston are finding it difficult to breakdown the Sawbridgeworth back line they are keeping their shape forcing the home side to play it out wide rather than through the centre, winning tackles getting the ball forwards is a struggle, when they do it it forwards it's played out to the wide positions into Shannon Hardinges the no10 looking to play in striker Hannah Fowler. Chasing the pass though Fowler is beaten to the ball by Royston keeper Grace Leslie who comes racing out of her box to kick clear.

     The visitors suffer an early injury blow, midfielder Jemma Whiteman hurts her knee challenging for the ball, tries to carry on but can't, coming on in her place is Claire Thompson. Going out to the wide right position Thompson puts in decent cross into the box, tracking back though Royston's Paige Rolfe gets her foot on the ball to clear for a corner before Fowler can reach it.

      In the middle for Sawbridgeworth Jacqueline Stott has a shot from 40 yards that Tyson takes, immediately sets off a counter attack the ball finding Emma Phipps out on the right her cross is too close to Leslie. Sawbridgeworth can't keep the ball it is won back played into Rutherford who shoots from the edge of the box sending her effort narrowly over the crossbar.

Royston Town Ladies Emma Phipps on the ball

     Royston have a free kick left of the box 20 yards out it's Paige Rolfe standing over the ball, puts in a good ball, that is dipping just not enough to creep under the bar, over.

     GOAL! Rolfe has another chance to put a set piece into the box as Royston have a free kick towards the halfway line on the right. The ball is flighted into the box, Rutherford jumps for it but can't reach it as it bounces down in area, it's Georgia Gannaway who is following up gets her head to the ball to divert it past Tyson and into the net 1-0.

     Royston are on top are keeping possession and pressing forwards in numbers, keeping Sawbridgeworth pinned back the visitors can't find an out ball and make it stick. Another Royston attack breaking down the right it's Phipps who plays the ball into Rutherford on the edge of the penalty area she drags her shot wide of the post although diving Tyson had it covered good leave.

Royston's Paige Rolfe & Sawbridgeworth's Kelly Holesworth tussle for the ball

    Sawbridgeworth with some good possession make progress down the right Stott plays the ball forwards for Fowler to chase, Leslie is out of her box quickly once more to clear.

   GOAL! It's Rolfe with the set piece again this time 40 yards out little wider this time the ball comes into the box in the middle six yards out Rutherford coming in tries to get her head to it, misses, it's an OG however as the Sawbridgeworth defender coming in with her deflects the ball into the back of her own net 2-0.

                       Half-time Royston Town Ladies 2-0 Sawbridgeworth Town WFC

     A strong 1st half performance from Royston have dominated play and possession have scored twice although their have been few chances on target. Sawbridgeworth have worked hard and for the large part defended solidly against Royston's attackers have struggled to keep the ball however and haven't registered a shot on target, that would need to change 2nd have if they wanted to get back into this cup time as they kicked off the 2nd half.

    GOAL! This then was not the start to the 2nd half that Sawbridgeworth wanted, despite a bright start putting Royston's back line under pressure for once, it's is the home side who score as they break the ball getting played into Georgia Gannaway out wide left she runs with the ball, cuts back inside losing her marker inside the box and shoots pulling the ball wide of Tyson and into the back of the net 3-0.

    Sawbridgeworth's Shannon Hardinges looks the most likely to get something going  forwards for the visitors is making herself available for Jacqueline Stott and Kelly Holesworth in centre midfield to pass to, Hardinges in turn is looking to get the ball into Fowler gets a good cross in from the wide right position, Royston's Leslie is alert to the run Fowler is making intercepts the ball.

Sawbridgeworth Town WFC's Shannon Hardinges looking for a pass

     Royston make their 1st change bringing on Victoria Rutherford for Amie Jones. Sawbridgeworth's Ann Anstey and Royston's Jo Rutherford have had a good battle all game the striker rarely getting the better of the defender pushed out wide she does manage to stab a ball into the box for Victoria to latch onto sends the shot wide of goal.

   2nd change for Royston as Paige Rolfe comes off for Hannah Mardell. Play is a little more even Royston sitting back a little with a 3 goal cushion. From a throw wide left deep in Royston's half Sawbridgeworth's Stott plays a good pass into the centre for Hardinges she can't bring it under control for the shot as Royston clear only out to Sawbridgeworth's full back Georgia Jackson who has a shot from 30 yards out Leslie makes the save.

    GOAL! Royston have a corner it's Jo Rutherford to play the ball in from the right a good ball sent into the 6 yard box central Royston defender Amy Cooper meets it with her head smashes the ball against the crossbar, it there to meet the rebound and scores despite a Sawbrigdeworth player trying to hook it off the line 4-0.

    Final change for Royston, Stacey Hassen coming on late for Katie Seymour.

    Sawbridgeworth's Stott has a chance to pull a goal back for the visitors as Holeworth plays her through in the centre looks to sweep the ball wide of Leslie and into the back of the net the keeper though sticks a leg out to divert the ball wide for a corner kick.

   Have been some committed challenges throughout the whole match 50/50 balls with neither player willing to back out. Hardinges is the latest player to need treatment after coming off the worst, is able to carry on.
Sawbridgeworth's no12 Claire Thompson puts in a vital block to stop a Jo Rutherford cross before the ball strikes the crossbar from a long range ball sent back in.

     Jo Rutherford has done everything bar score a goal as she drags another shot wide of goal. Royston have a corner, Gemma Barlow heads the ball back in towards goal, Rutherford looks to hook it into the back of the net but Tyson bravely saves from close range to deny her at the near post.

    Sawbridgeworth with a good attack down the left the ball coming back into Stott in the centre she looks to pass to Hardinges who has make a great run coming in from the right, under pressure from Barlow she can't get her shot away as Royston look to counter attack break quickly Jo Rutherford into no14 Victoria Rutherford she is through the Sawbridgeworth defence, keeper Tyson comes out of her box makes a great saving tackle with her legs to win the ball outside the box.

    Royston keeper Leslie then tips the ball over her bar as Sawbridgeworth's Stott shoots from 20 yards as the visitors work the ball up the pitch late in the game, the corner the last action of the match the final whislte blows and Royston Town Ladies win the tie 4-0 to progress into the next round of the FA Women's Cup.

    A good performance today from Royston Town Ladies they will fancy their chances of further progress in the FA Women's Cup, will be a tough opponent for whoever they draw in the next round.

   Sawbridgeworth Town WFC will be disappointed with the result, can't fault the effort though worked hard defensively to try and keep Royston's attackers out, didn't have the ball enough at the other end their own attackers frustrated.

    My 1st look at both sides hope to see more of both over the season. I thank Royston for the hospitality and the Sawbridgeworth manager Stephen Gleeson for helping me out with the teams.

 

Match Report - Lynn Ladies v Brandon Town Ladies - Norfolk Women's Division Two

    Did something today in all the years of supporting women's football that I've never done before.. travelled less than 10 miles to get to a match venue. Over the Great Ouse River into West Lynn to watch the newly formed Lynn Ladies take on Brandon Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women's Division Two.

    On all my travels around the country watching the game I've been asked on several occasions if Kings Lynn has a women's football team.. well now they do. A good thing too, Norfolk's 2nd largest town and a large catchment area to tap into aswell with little women's football being established in the North West of the county. This will be just the teams 3rd competitive match together, they have started the season brightly though opening their campaign with an 11-0 victory over Sprowston Ladies reserves at home followed by an away victory at Morley Ladies last time out.

    With teams dropping out of the Norfolk Women's Division One towards the tailend of last season, this season saw the top four teams in Division Two getting promoted. With that and a host of new clubs entering Division Two this season looking to pick a favourite for the title and promotion was tricky. One team stood out and that is today's visitors Brandon Town Ladies, have come over to the Norfolk league set up this season having played in the Suffolk leagues before.

   On the border between the two counties the club finished 2nd behind Bury Town Ladies last season and taking a place in Norfolk Women's Division Two looked a strong and good footballing outfit when I saw them play a pre-season friendly against Thorpe United Ladies a month ago. Have played just the one league game before today a 6-0 home win against new side Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies.

    The venue West Lynn Social Club with a bar and clubhouse beside the playing area on the banks of the Great Ouse. Good facilities pitch looked good little bumpy but no more than you would expect from a recreation ground. The weather was bright enough a cool breeze with dark clouds over head that threatened to give everyone a drenching but never came to pass.

     Lynn Ladies kitted out in a purple coloured kit and Brandon Town Ladies kitted out in yellow shirts with blue trim, blue shorts and yellow socks with blue and white banding everyone was set for the match... well almost everyone as the referee appointed by the league had failed to show up.. had imformed the league they just hadn't informed the teams, luckily a replacement was on hand to step into the breach and the match was on.

    Lynn Ladies starting XI - Bryony Russell-Smith, Kirsty Scott, Katie Garner, Chloe Burch (C), Bethan Jones, Natalie Bunton, Emma Woods, Winona Lee, Josie Turner, Shelley Woods & Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse.
    subs - Ellen Groves, Lisa Wilson & Lyndsey Churchyard.

   Brandon Town Ladies starting XI - Geogie Bryant, Ellie Marshall, Melanie Talbot, Laura Grove, Rachel Lynch, Hazel Shepperd, Georgie O'Malley, Frankie Torrance, Tiffany Forshaw (C), Shanice Burch & Laura Brame.
    subs - Natasha Rutter & Brooke Wickens.

   Lynn Ladies had a few players out through injury, including their goalkeeper who suffered a nasty knee injury last time out so this was a debut for Bryony Russell-Smith in goal. She is soon called into action Brandon kicking the match off mount an attack down the left the ball is played through to Brandon captain and striker Tiffany Forshaw, her shot is fumbled by Russell-Smith but she recovers quickly to pounce on the ball as Forshaw looks to retrieve it to fire back in.

    It's the perfect start for the visitors not long after, keeping the ball in and around the Lynn penalty area Brandon's Laura Brame plays the ball into Forshaw who strikes the ball sending it through the crowd and past Russell-Smith into the back of the net 0-1.

    Lynn captain Chloe Burch puts in a good tackle to deny Forshaw another run on goal as she looks to run clear of the defence. Getting the ball up the pitch Lynn's Shelley Woods and Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse combine well on the left wing with the latter putting in a cross towards the far post that Brandon goalkeeper Georgie Bryant claims before Lynn's Josie Turner closing in can get there.

    Brandon having started the brighter, the game has settled into a more even rhythm, playing one up top Lynn are looking to their wide players to get on the ball and put crosses into the box, out wide right Winona Lee has a chance putting in a fierce cross that beats Bryant going past her strikes the far post and coming back into play Brandon clear.

   Brame and Forshaw look to link up and play each other in whenever they are fed the ball, Brame puts her striker partner in again this time it is Lynn's Katie Garner with the covering tackle to deny her a goal scoring chance.

    Lynn's Shelley Woods has a strike on goal receiving the ball from a free kick on the half way line she turns and shoots from the edge of the box straight at Bryant who makes the save.

    Brandon's Brame is a constant threat for the visitors looking to drive with the ball at her feet trying to find a way through the Lynn back line, when she does get through though Russell-Smith is quickly off her line to drop on the ball and make the save.

Brandon's Laura Brame on the ball

   The ball is moving around the pitch as a furious pace, both sides though are looking for the shorter pass, keep it on the ground when they can. Roll on roll of subs Lynn make a change Ellen Groves coming on for Josie Turner. Shelley Woods is fouled 30 yards from goal the free kick comes in, goes over the bar.

    Winona Lee is given a rest for Lynn as Lyndsey Churchyard comes on. Good strength from Ellen Groves to win the ball in the centre pushes out to the right looks she shoot the effort high and off target. Lynn are having more of the ball in the latter stages of the half, Brandon bring on Natasha Rutter for Melanie Talbot.

    A late challenge on a Lynn player gives the home side a free kick in the middle the ball played in comes out to Natalie Bunton, looking to drive forwards her shot lacks power and rolls through to Bryant.

                                    Half-time Lynn Ladies 0-1 Brandon Town Ladies

     All in all an even 1st half Lynn getting caught cold at the start took a little time to deal with the threat from Brandon's Brame and Forshaw, had for the most part defended well with captain Burch, Garner and Bethan Jones at left back making vital tackles. Brandon too have defended well allowed Lynn space down the flanks confident they had the numbers back to deal with any cross put in.

   Lynn kick off the 2nd half with Lee returning to the pitch, once again however it is the visitors who start the stronger a strong run from Forshaw down the right channel puts in a high shot that Russell-Smith plucks down out of the air at her near post.

    Soon after Brandon double their lead and it's Forshaw the scorer again as Lynn struggle to get a cross out of their box it is poked out towards Brandon's no 9 waiting on the edge of the box, central to goal being put under challenge she gets her shot away and it finds the back of the net 0-2.

    Lynn with a free kick 40 yards from goal to the left the ball comes into the area is flicked on and comes back off the post bouncing across the goal to Lee waiting far post her shot from six yards is blocked and Brandon clear.

    Josie Turner comes back on up front for Lynn, good work from Lee as she combines with Jones to put a good cross into the centre Bryant is first to it. In attack for the visitors Natasha Rutter blasts a 30 yard drive wide of goal, then in the middle Frankie Torrance puts in a good tackle to win the ball looks to slot a pass into the run of Brame, she is tackled by Bethan Jones coming round on the cover and the move breaks down.

Lynn Ladies Bethan Jones

    Back in her own box to defend a long throw put in by Brandon, Winona Lee blocks two attempts on goal. Lynn then expose the Brandon back line on a counter attack, with a great pass into Hopkins-Duckhouse, she shoots with her left foot on the edge of the box screws her attempt narrowly wide of the top corner.

   Another Lynn pass looks to find the run of Hopkins-Duckhouse again is deflected into her path by Brandon's Ellie Marshall. The no 11 has more time but opts to shoot from 20 yards, Bryant setting herself palms the ball away for a corner which Brandon defend.

    On the run with the ball to the right of goal Lynn's Josie Turner shoots drags her effort across the goal face and out of play. Lynn are enjoying a good period of pressure finding some joy in and around the Brandon defence. Shelley Woods looking to be strong on the ball keep possession and drive forwards rides a challenge steals into the box and puts in a low cross that Turner can't quite get to.

Shelley Woods on the attack for Lynn Ladies

   Lynn bring Groves and Churchyard back on both up front as Lynn look to play 4-4-2 match Brandon late in the game. Shelley Woods strong again in the middle lets fly from 25 yards, Bryant is well placed doesn't trouble her.

    For all their pressing looking for a goal Lynn can't find the break through, and as they push forwards Brandon with their 2 goal lead can wait to spring a counter attack, the ball played forwards is won back by Brame she holds it up well see's the run from Forshaw plays her in, on the charge down the right Forshaw shoots a high driving ball that goes over Russell-Smith and into the back of the net sealing her hat-trick as Brandon lead 0-3.

   Lynn try to find a consolation goal late on have a shout for hand ball from a corner but nothing is awarded, Brandon break with the ball as the referee blows the final whistle

                                     Full-time Lynn Ladies 0-3 Brandon Town Ladies

   A solid performance from Brandon to win the 3pts strong down the centre gave the home side very little space to exploit. Forshaw took her hat-trick well.

   Lynn were caught cold at the start of both halves losing a goal, had some good spells of play and had Brandon under pressure as the 2nd half wore on just couldn't pull a goal back.

   Two sides I expect will be there or there abouts in the race for the Division Two title over the season I enjoyed my trip to see my local side today and thank both teams for helping me out with the squad details, will no doubt see both play again in the near future.

  

Match Report - Notts County Ladies v Chelsea Ladies FAWSL 1

     Has been a little while since I covered an FAWSL match have to look back to the 3rd September when I watched Notts County Ladies and Manchester City Women play out a 1-1 draw. The venue today was again the Meadow Lane stadium, home of Notts County Ladies, the visitors this time league leaders Chelsea Ladies. A huge game for both sides needing 3pts for opposite reasons.

    With the season drawing to an end and games running out Notts County Ladies lay in 7th place in the league table 4 points above bottom of the table Everton Ladies. With just 1 victory in the league all season another now against Chelsea would see them move 7 points clear of the drop zone. Notts County Ladies have had terrible luck with injuries and players being unavailable but tonight have Sophie Walton back after serving a one match ban along with Irish international striker Fiona O'Sullivan returning to the squad. Dunia Susi was also back on the subs bench after a 2 month lay off with injury.

    Chelsea Ladies sit top of the table on 23 points 2 clear of 2nd placed Birmingham City Ladies and 4 clear of 3rd placed Liverpool Ladies. With 2nd and 3rd playing tomorrow it was vital Chelsea Ladies capitalise and earn the 3pts to extend their lead at the top and put them in a very strong position with just 2 matches left to play.

    It's the business end of the season however and the pressure is on both teams for very different reasons who would come out on top?

     Notts County Ladies starting XI - Carly Telford, Sophie Walton, Danielle Brogan, Rachel Corsie (C), Rachel Unitt, Amy Turner, Desiree Scott, Katie Hoyle, Jess Clarke, Aileen Whelan & Fiona O'Sullivan
           
     Chelsea Ladies starting XI - Marie Hourihan, Hannah Blundell, Laura Bassett, Gilly Flaherty, Claire Rafferty, Laura Coombs, Katie Chapman (C), Ji So Yun, Jackie Groenen, Yuki Ogimi & Eniola Aluko

      The fixture was moved from it's original Sunday slot back to Saturday a 7:15pm kick off to offer fans who attended the men's game earlier in the afternoon the chance to come and watch the women's team play on the same day. There was drizzle in the air which would make for a slick playing surface as the home side in their black and white striped kit got the match underway against Chelsea lined up in blue.

   With Rachel Unitt taking up the left back role and Sophie Walton the right, Amy Turner was pushed further forwards to operate in front of Unitt.

    It was down the left that Chelsea mounted the 1st attack good work from Jackie Groenen to win the ball and drive forwards, puts the ball into the box, Notts County head it away but only into the path of the advancing Laura Coombs who strikes it from long range, Carly Telford in the Notts County goal tips the ball over for a corner.

     In the middle Eniola Aluko and Yuki Ogimi link up well playing a good one/two on the edge of the D, the latter trying to find the run from midfield from Ji So Yun, Notts County are alert to the danger. Aluko then tries to find a way through from the left receiving the ball from Claire Rafferty, Sophie Walton marks her well not letting her past.

    Chelsea look to have exposed the Notts County defence as a ball played through the middle is only deflected into the path of Aluko from the stretching foot of Rachel Corsie, bursting into the box however Aluko can't get the ball round the diving Telford as the keeper claims the ball.

     It's all Chelsea in the opening minutes, when Notts County do get the ball up to their attackers, they can't keep possession and Chelsea look to attack with Katie Hoyle and Desiree Scott looking outnumbered in the middle.

     Irish international striker Fiona O'Sullivan has the ball at her feet 20 yards from goal sees the run on the left from Amy Turner passes the ball, Turner looking to come inside gets a cross in finds Aileen Whelan but the flag is up for offside, play pulled back as Turner was fouled in the move.

   From the set piece wide left Notts County put a good ball into the danger area that Chelsea goalkeeper Marie Hourihan comes for and spills, comes to defender Danielle Brogan on the edge of the box she slips as she goes to shoot however and the chance is gone.

    Groenen with another great run down the left fires in a cross trying to find Ogimi running into the middle, too strong the ball goes behind out of play. Aluko then has a chance to put a cross into the box from the right the target once again Ogimi closing in on the near post meets it on the half volley from six yards out, Telford is perfectly placed to make the save from point blank range.

    Play is stopped after Rachel Unitt goes down stretching trying to make a tackle, it doesn't look good she can't carry on the stretcher is called for, feel for her has had terrible luck with injuries over the last few years and not been on the pitch no where near as much as she should. Hope it's nothing too serious and wish her a full and speedy recovery. Her replacement Dunia Susi, sees Turner drop back to left back, also gives Notts County manager Rick Passmoor a chance to speak to his attacking players look to see how they can get more of the ball.

    Jess Clarke is fouled 40 yards out central to goal, the ball is lofted into the area, Corsie gets her head to it trying to send it goalwards, having peeled of to the far post Clarke attempts to divert the ball past Hourihan as she comes to claims sends her shot narrowly wide of goal.

     With Susi on the pitch Notts County have an extra player looking to go forwards, with Jess Clarke they are looking to get the ball into O'Sullivan and Whelen. It's Whelan who is fouled to give Notts County a free kick 20 yards out to the right of the box, the ball is sent into the area at a good height towards the far post, it's Jess Clarke who rises to meet the ball heading into the back of the net 1-0.

    The home side have the lead, Chelsea almost find an equaliser straight away, Aluko beating the offside trap is in on goal from the left shoots, Telford is beaten but the ball cannons off the post and Notts County clear.

                                 Half-time Notts County Ladies 1-0 Chelsea Ladies

   A strong 1st half performance from Chelsea they had the bulk of the attacking play and possession but couldn't find away through a hard working and determined Notts County who came back late in the half to claim the lead, something to hold onto in the 2nd half as Chelsea kick off.

    Notts County start the 2nd half strongly pushing the Chelsea defence back, Susi wins a corner off Rafferty. Look to put Hourihan under pressure from the set piece she does well to retain the ball.

   Aluko with a driving run down the right fires in a shot to the near post Telford palms the ball away for a corner. Canadian Desiree Scott with good strong defending in her own box gets the corner ball away for Notts County to break, it's Clarke with the driving run that wins the corner.

   Hoyle plays the ball in comes to Brogan her shot from inside the box is headed off the line by Rafferty drops down Whelan shoots from close range... side netting.

   Different story 2nd half it's Chelsea who can't get on the ball, Scott is operating in front of Hoyle looking to break play up higher up the pitch and is doing a good job.

     Chelsea make a change, Rachel Williams coming on to replace Laura Coombs. Not long after Notts County bring off Dunia Susi for Emily Roberts.

    Williams with her strength and power wins the ball on the left, plays in an early cross the ball is there and gone before anyone can meet it. At the other end O'Sullivan is through having gotten a yard on her marker, Gilly Flaherty is there on the cover tracking back to put in a good tackle.

   Another free kick is given away by Chelsea wide left 25 yards out the delivery headed behind for a corner, Hoyle plays in flighted ball that Corsie meets powering her header wide of the mark.

    Notts County have the Chelsea box under seige for a spell a series of long range shots are blocked before O'Sullivan finds the space to curl one through, only to find Hourihan ready and waiting.

    Sophie Walton with a careless back pass puts Telford under pressure as she races out from her box to try and reach in before Williams, she can't the Chelsea attacker is in on goal coming in from the left has an open goal to shoot at, takes a fraction too long as the effort is cut out by the diving leg of Amy Turner to keep the ball out and maintain the home sides lead.

   So Yun with the space to run into has a shot from 25 yards out that swerves in the air, but poses Telford no trouble. Chelsea make another change bring on Danielle Buet for Jackie Groenen. The visitors are getting frustrated as they chase the game. Put together a great move as Ogimi plays the ball into So Yun, the Korean passes the ball to Williams on the edge of the box and continues her run, Williams out wide right to Buet her smart cross in the ball is met by So Yun but fired over.

    Into the last 5 minutes the game is stretched, with both teams looking to score, Notts County aren't sitting back settling for what they've got, don't need to commit the numbers forward like Chelsea do.

    Chelsea have a corner into Ogimi she heads the ball across the goal mouth So Yun has a shot at the far post the attempt is blocked by Walton. Pushing up Chelsea are caught as Scott springs the offside trap, hasn't the legs to beat the defenders racing back to stop her.

     Chelsea need a goal even Hourihan comes up as they have a late corner, the ball comes through everyone Turner misses her header the ball falling to the feet of Buet she fires her shot wide.

    That's it the final whistle blows and it's Notts County who win 1-0 can claim the 3pts, a huge victory against the league leaders the you can see the team is elated at getting that long elusive 2nd league win, was a strong 2nd half performance and lifts them further from the drop zone.

    Chelsea polar opposites hugely disappointed not to pick up anything as the battle at the top of the league is thrown wide open with Birmingham City Ladies and Liverpool Ladies meeting tomorrow the title race is going to the wire.

   

Match Report - Grimsby Borough Ladies v Nettleham Ladies

      For the 3rd match in a row I was taking a look at a women's football match in the regional women's football league, only this time it was a trip over to the neighbouring East Midlands set up and to get an early season look at Nettleham Ladies as they travelled to the north east of Lincolnshire to play Grimsby Borough Ladies.

     In the early stages of the new season both teams had won one and lost one going into the match. Grimsby Borough Ladies were Solar Ladies last season, back then they won promotion to the Premier Division from the Division One North league below. Since then have formed a partnership with the Grimsby Borough mens club and been renamed.

    Nettleham Ladies have a new management team in place following a strong campaign last time out that saw the club narrowly miss out on promotion to the FAWPL Midlands Division One by eventual winners Steel City Wanderers.

    I like to take in the odd women's football match in Lincolnshire following my time supporting Lincoln Ladies in the WSL see how the sport is doing within the county and this midweek clash between two of the highest league place clubs within the county was a great opportunity and a chance to catch up with a few friends from those past seasons.

     Grimsby Borough play at the Bradley Playing Fields, a newly build venue offering a club house with bar and meeting room facilities, numerous playing pitches including a 3G surface. Tonight's match on grass though the main problem it looked like was going to be the fog. A heavy covering lay in and around Grimsby, made the air feel cooler and damp the playing surface looked fairly slick, a large pitch the far side stand was barely visible as the teams emerged from the tunnel.

     Grimsby Borough Ladies starting XI - Bethany French, Rebecca Pleasants, Clodagh Summers, Charlotte Summers, Katie Pye, Lisa Cromey (C), Suzanne Green, Charlotte Townsend, Laura Flecknor, Lottie Soar & Toni McHamilton
      subs - Natalie Aird, Lauren Bamber & Daniella Whitworth


      Nettleham Ladies starting XI - Rosie Davidson, Leanne Woodhead, Shelley Futter, Jessica Maclean, Amy Compton, Sammy Wiggan, Katie Davison (C), Jennifer Purnell, Zuzana Pramukova, Stacey Aisthorpe & Kirsty Dalzell
     subs - Jodie Levick & Claire Green

    The fog and floodlights were a bad combination for trying to get any pictures to add to the report so the camera stayed in my bag as Nettleham lined up in white shirts, navy shorts and socks got the match underway against Grimsby lined up in sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts.

     The ball wasn't on the deck for much of the opening few minutes travelling rapidly from one sides defensive line to the other. As the ball came back to the Nettleham defence again everyone had gotten drawn to the left, there was a huge amount of grass for Nettleham's Sammy Wiggan to run into on the right, her run spotted the ball was played forwards for her to chase, getting to the by line she fires a fierce cross back along the edge of the penalty area where Stacey Aisthorpe is arriving to meet the ball and slot it into the back of the net to give the visitors an early lead 0-1.

      Aisthorpe is played in again shortly after an over the top ball to run onto Grimsby goalkeeper Bethany French comes charging out of the box and stands her ground claiming the ball as Aisthorpe barrels into her.

     Grimsby are getting the ball forwards trying to use their wide players on the right Lottie Soar and captain Lisa Cromey play a good one two the latter passing the ball into Charlotte Townsend central her back to goal, Nettleham won't allow her to turn and get a shot away eventually crowding her off the ball inside the box.

     Nettleham have a corner, the ball coming in from the right is met by the head of Aisthorpe the attempt on goal over. The ball bypassing midfield much of the time with attackers looking to run off the shoulders of their markers, it's Aisthorpe who looks the most likely to get on the end of something, is running after one ball coming into the box is being closed down attempts the shot with her left foot drags the ball wide of goal.

    Grimsby with a great chance to pull the scores level as Lottie Soar plays in an inviting cross from the right of the penalty area into the far post at close range Toni Mchamilton is there to meet the ball her header is blocked by Nettleham keeper Rosie Davidson, the ball is loose their is a scramble for the ball Davidson shutting out another stab goalwards before the ball is fired into the side netting.

    On their next attack Grimsby have better luck, the past out wide to Lisa Cromey on the right 20 yards from goal she shapes to shoot early sending in a low drive with pace Davidson has no time to set herself and react as the ball is past her and into the far corner to level the scores 1-1.

    Grimsby are on top for a spell, Soar with and effort from outside the box drilled wide, then a 2nd ball cross/shot from Soar is dropped by Davidson, she recovers quickly to recover the ball as Grimsby's Laura Flecknor closes her down.

   Leanne Woodhead in the right back slot for Nettleham makes a great tackle to deny Grimsby's McHamilton a free run on goal as Flecknor wins the ball in midfield and looks to play her in on the left.

    Nettleham's Kirsty Dalzell receives the ball, turns with the ball on the left, drives into the box and unleashes a strike sending the ball high past French and into the goal to restore Nettleham's lead 1-2.

    Another Nettleham chance from the left this time from Zuzana Pramukova with a forceful run has a strike from long range sends her effort in but behind the goal. Aisthorpe with the ball breaks into the box her shot is blocked inside the six yard box spinning away for a corner.

    Grimsby's Flecknor is alert to win the ball back from Nettleham high up the pitch looks to play a good pass into the run of Soar, just a little too much on the pass allows Davison to come off her line a claim the ball before Soar can reach it.

    Townsend plays in Cromey on the right coming inside she shoots from outside the box the strike over the crossbar. Flecknor has a chance to put another good ball in late on which Nettleham head clear off the line.

                            Half-time Grimsby Borough Ladies 1-2 Nettleham Ladies

    A lively 1st half of football the ball not spending much time in midfield, both sides are physical the slick surface meaning challenges have to be perfectly timed, both teams have covered alot of ground.

     Grimsby to kick off the 2nd half. It's Nettleham with the early attacking play as a move breaks down Pramukova on the left stays up the pitch the ball won back is passed into her she heads for the by line puts in a good cross for Dalzell and Aisthorpe to attack, French though makes a vital catch.

    Nettleham break after a spell of possession in and around thier box from Grimsby comes to an end, it's Pramukova again on the left puts another cross in but again straight at the keeper.

    French has to come off her line again outside her box to clear the ball with Aisthorpe closing her down the ball spinning wide for a throw. From the dead ball the ball is crossed into the box at the near post 6 yards out Dalzell meets the ball powers the shot wide of the post.

     Peeling out into the left channel Grimsby's Cromey, has good vision to play her cross towards the far post looking for the run from Flecknor, Woodhead though makes an important black the ball going behind for a corner, the ball coming in low a shot is blocked as it's fired into the crowd before Nettleham clear.

   Grimsby make a change Katie Pye coming off for Natalie Aird. At the back it's Grimsby's Charlotte Summers with a good tackle to deny Aisthorpe as she looks to push her way through the centre.

    Grimsby don't stop Aisthorpe for long though, this time though it is Pramukova on the left who unlocks their defence stealing past her marker to put in a perfect cross into the middle to give Aisthorpe an easy tap in to give Nettleham their 3rd, 1-3.

   3 becomes 4 in quick succession this time a good piece of individual skill from Aisthorpe to bring up her hat-trick. Head down she runs forwards with the ball form the middle coming to the edge of the box strikes the ball low and hard into the corner of the net to give Nettleham a 3 goal cushion 1-3.

    Grimsby are struggling to get any forward moves going, their full back busy dealing with the threat from Pramukova on the left and Wiggan on the right, Aisthorpe and Dalzell strong in the centre, Townsend is booked for a late tackle on Aisthorpe as the visitors make a double change bringing off Wiggan and Katie Davison for Jodie Levick and Claire Green.

    Grimsby take off Clodagh Summers bring on Lauren Baumber. Pushed back by Nettleham, Cromey does her best to make herself available for the out pass on the right there is space there, when she does get the ball Nettleham's Amy Compton does well to come back on the cover and win the ball.

    Cromey get's some support from Aird, they combine get the ball into the Nettleham area, Aird's shot is blocked. Grimsby have a corner late on the ball is half cleared by Nettleham, but with numbers up Grimsby retain the ball as Aird wins it back in a central position, passes the ball out wide to Soar on the edge of the box she lashes the ball towards goal firing it across the keeper and into the back of the net to pull one goal back 2-4.

    Into the closing stages both teams are tiring Nettleham still have a 2 goal cushion, no need to press for more look to keep the ball prevent Grimsby mounting any late revivial, do their job as the referee blows the final whistle and Nettleham win by 4 goals to 2 taking the 3 points.

   Were much the stronger team in the 2nd half with Aisthorpe getting her hat-trick a phyiscal game their will be a few briuses to show come the morning. The fog and damp a reminder the winter months will soon be here.

    I thank both clubs for helping me out with team details and wish them well for the rest of the season.

 

 

Match Report - Gt Shelford Ladies v Lowestoft Ladies

     Having not seen any matches in the Eastern Region Women's Football League Premier Division before last Wednesday's clash between AFC Dunstable Ladies & Stevenage Ladies (see previous match report) I was to get another dose straight away with a meeting between 2 clubs I had tried to watch play in the league last season Great Shelford Ladies & Lowestoft Ladies.

    I have seen Lowestoft Ladies before, were 1 of the 2 teams that featured in my 1st ever match report a Women's FA Cup tie against Cambridge WFC, and I'd seen them just a few weeks ago in a pre-season friendly with Ipswich Ladies. Are in many peoples eyes one of the favorites for the league title this season having had a strong campaign last time out and then adding to their squad a handful of players that have played in the league above at Norwich City Ladies.

    Whenever I'd looked to go watch Gt Shelford Ladies play last season, usually the weather or other postponements came along, so an early league meeting between the 2 clubs was a great opportunity to see them both in action. Both clubs have the same thing in common in that they are the 2nd highest league placed clubs in their respective counties of Cambridgeshire & Suffolk, with Cambridge WFC & Ipswich Town Ladies established clubs in the FAWPL South East Division One, both Lowestoft Ladies & Gt Shelford Ladies looking to join them or be in the mix for promotion.

    The venue for today's league clash the Gt Shelford Recreation Ground. A communal sports facility with a new looking built changing area and pavilion. The pitch looking in good condition if a little bumpy, the weather cool, a little breezy with a few dark clouds around.

     Gt Shelford Ladies starting XI - Laura Gilbey (C), Claire Creek, Alana Sugden, Sophie Lanham, Gemma Murray, Kate Saunders, Becky Charter, Georgia Day, Sophie Hopkins, Becky Taylor & Charlotte Maybank.
     subs - Abigail Davies, Harriet Blundell, Amanda Binge, Amy Brooks & Lauren Martin.

   Lowestoft Ladies starting XI - Chloe Nixon, Marcie Prettyman, Anna Larkins, Megan Cletheroe, Kate Pasque (C), Amber Rowland, Natasha Thomas, Charlotte Eastwood, Hannah Waters, Chloe Hoffman & Zoe Cossey
   subs - Broghan Scully & Charnelle Riggall

    It's the visitors, Lowestoft to kick off the match in an all blue kit with white trim, against Gt Shelford kitted out in claret & sky blue halved shirts, claret shorts and socks. Lowestoft with the early pressing pushing Gt Shelford back win a couple of corners that the home side deal with.

     For all the early possession Lowestoft have it is Gt Shelford with the 1st shot at goal, springing the offside trap on the right Sophie Hopkins on the run shoots from 20 yards out putting the attempt over the crossbar.

    Lowestoft have a free kick 25 yards out to the right of Gt Shelford's goal as Hannah Waters is pulled back. Anna Larkins puts in a dangerous ball into the crowded box Gt Shelford goalkeeper and captain Laura Gilbey comes out well to punch the ball clear.

    Gilbey is called into action moments later as Lowestoft's Natasha Thomas is played through on the left flank closing in on the box Gilbey saves diving at her feet, Lowestoft have a corner.

    The delivery from the set piece is at a good height with pace towards the far post, the header down into the ground is from Lowestoft's Megan Cletheroe she scores to give the visitors the lead 0-1.

    Lowestoft are on top putting Gt Shelford under pressure with good short passing progressive play looking to move the ball across the pitch, the home side though are not letting too many gaps form in their back line. striker Hannah Waters is fed the ball looks to turn centrally get a shot away from outside the box scuffs the effort it rolls through into Gilbey's gloves.

    For all their pressure Lowesfoft are trying to hold a high line, it's Gt Shelford's Becky Charter on the right that beats the offside flag as the ball is played over midfield, is challenged but stays strong to win the ball back bursts into the box from the right and shoots sending it past Lowestoft goalkeeper Chloe Nixon into the far corner of the net to equalise 1-1.

    It's Gt Shelford's turn to be on top soon after Nixon holds on to a shot that comes in from the left from Becky Taylor. The home side then have a free kick given inside the D after Hopkins is fouled. Sophie Lanham to take she puts it over.

    Taylor and Hopkins combine causing all sorts of problems in the Lowestoft defence the ball played into Taylor she puts a looping cross into the box into the path of Hopkins run and she slots it home to give Gt Shelford the lead 2-1.

     Just when it looked like the home side were getting on top of the match Lowestoft hit back with a quick reply with Hannah Waters getting onto the end of a long pass into the right she is in space defenders trying to get back Gilbey makes the decision to come out to try and take the ball from her being closed down Waters gets the ball away over Gilbey sending it over towards the goal no one can get back to save it from going in 2-2.

The moment Hannah Waters scores Lowestoft's 2nd goal

     An exciting game is end to end, Nixon is called into action as Hopkins is in again into the box she looks to go around the keeper as she dives to make the save reaches out with her glove to grab the ball. Marcie Prettyman is on hand to head clear as another dangerous Gt Shelford cross comes in from Charter with Taylor closing in far post.

    Charter on the shoulder of the last defender is in again on goal from an over the top ball coming in from the right is closing in on the box, Nixon has to come out try and put her off, Charter stays composed to put it under her and restore the home sides lead 3-2.

    Into the closing seconds of the half Lowestoft put together a good attacking move working the ball across the box Thomas playing the ball into Amber Rowland her back to goal she lays it off to Charlotte Eastwood who opts to drill the ball from outside the box through the crowd, it goes wide.

                              Half-time Gt Shelford Ladies 3-2 Lowestoft Ladies

    Gt Shelford put in alot of work and rode the early pressure Lowestoft put on them to come back from a goal down to lead at the break 3-2. Lowestoft working the ball well were creating chances but saw their high defensive line exposed for Gt Sheford to counter attack. Who would come out on top 2nd half as Gt Shelford kicked off.

    Lowestoft have the possession early on looking to find a way through the Gt Shelford back line. Amber Rowland is looking to press on has the ball at her feet back to goal looks to turn her marker and break forwards, driving into the box she is eventually crowded off the ball by Gt Shelford's centre backs. Rowland then blasts over from outside the box as Chloe Hoffman and Zoe Cossey link up well to give her the ball from the left.

    Rowlands again! Off the bar! This time following in as Hannah Waters has her shot blocked inside the box the ball rebounds to Rowland on the half volley she drills the ball goalwards smashes down off the bar and Gt Shelford clear.

Amber Rowland on the attack for Lowestoft

    Not getting so much of the ball, Gt Shelford still look a threat on the counter attack Charter with the ball in the right channel puts a cross in that Taylor coming in with a good jump heads wide.

    Lowestoft win a corner, another great delivery is sent in towards the far post area, there is Megan Cletheroe to head in her 2nd goal of the match and level the scores 3-3.

   Lowestoft regain the lead soon after a fantastic ball played into the centre from Zoe Cossey, Natasha Thomas is there running across the D to head the ball down into the box, has fantastic pace chases it down, great skill to use the outside of her boot to fire the ball over Gilbey and into the back of the net, a wonderful goal 3-4.

     Gt Shelford's Taylor blazes the ball over the bar from six yards after the home side win the ball from the Lowestoft defence. It's Taylor making driving runs from the middle that looks the most likely to make something happen for Gt Shelford. Make a triple change with Amanda Binge, Hannah Blundell & Amy Brooks coming on

    Claire Creek clears the ball off the line for Gt Shelford as Rowland strikes another rebound back in towards goal. Rowland then plays a fantastic pass through for Waters she is one on one with Gilbey who comes out to the edge of her box to make a great save at her feet, getting hurt in the process.

Claire Creek on the ball for Gt Shelford

    Late corner for Gt Shelford, but it's Lowestoft with the break Thomas down the left with the pass into Waters her lay off is for Rowland she puts it wide from distance. Lauren Martin is on for Gt Shelford late on.

     Rowland smashes the ball against the bar again the strike from outside the box, Into injury time it's Lowestoft pressing Gilbey saves with her feet this time as Thomas closes in on goal cutting in from the right. The final whistle blows and Lowestoft have the 3 points winning the match 3-4.

    Another entertaining match and good advert for women's football in the Eastern Region Premier Division a 7 goal thriller. Gt Shelford did well, working hard to have the lead at half time good counter attacking play, didn't quite have the legs to see it out. Lowestoft worked the ball well some great forward play and a great goal to win the match.

    I thank both clubs for helping me out with the squad details and will I look to see both play again this season.

     

   

   

Match Report - AFC Dunstable Ladies v Stevenage Ladies

      New territory and 2 new teams to go see play tonight. A trip down to Bedfordshire to watch AFC Dunstable Ladies take on Hertfordshire rivals Stevenage Ladies in the Eastern Region Women's Football League, (ERWFL) Premier Division.

     As most who have been following the blog know I have expanded my coverage of women's football to include a brand new website http://womensfootballeast.com that will focus solely on women's football in the East of England. To that end I will be looking to watch more games in the region and tonight presented a perfect opportunity to watch two of the leading women's football clubs in their respective counties in action. The ERWFL is a league I haven't covered much either so I was looking forwards to this encounter.

    AFC Dunstable Ladies newly promoted to the Premier Division this season having won the Division One South title the previous, play their home matches at Creasey Park, a new build, council owned sports complex that offers fantastic facilities. The playing area looked in great condition too.

   My main piece of knowledge regarding Stevenage Ladies is the partnership they established with the men's club last season. Finished in 4th place in the Premier League last campaign. Early days in the league season neither club had yet to register a win, both with a point going into tonight's clash.

   AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI - Emma Fisher, Lauren Chimes, Steph Fisher, Elly Wade, Julia Robathan, Danielle Carty, Charlotte South, Kerry Stratton, Katie Ross, Holly Skinner & Chelsea Forde.
       subs - Tamara Bayne, Dionne Manning & Kayleigh Nias.

   Stevenage Ladies starting XI - Keri Green, Laura Shearwood, Alex North, Amy Notschild, Abi Cartwright, Josie North, Donna McGuigan, Amy Josland, Hollie Jardine, Hannah Marshall & Nicole Hogan.
         sub - Dominique Godbeer.

    Great night weather wise for a game of football, had cooled down nicely, floodlights were on as Stevenage kitted out in bright yellow shirts, black shorts and socks kicked the match off. Dunstable's kit was all blue with a white collar and cuffs on the shirts.

   Took a few minutes for the game to settle into a rhythm, it was quite noteable early on how far Dunstable were back in their own half, which allowed the Stevenage back four to push right up to the half way line. It's the visitors with the early attacking play, Nicole Hogan in a central attacking role looking to drive with the ball into the box the Dunstable defence don't allow any space to exploit.

      Winning the ball back Dunstable look to take advantage of Stevenage's high line, midfielder Danielle Carty with a good steal looks to play the ball through for striker Holly Skinner to chase, however she is flagged offside.

    Down the right for Stevenage Donna McGuigan and Amy Josland combine well trying to play a one two before putting a cross in Josland is fouled the visitors have a free kick. From the delivery, Dunstable break the ball played through to Skinner who is on side this time pulls to the right taking her marker, has with her Kerry Stratton making a good run in support sees her plays the pass into her feet, Stratton hits it from 20 yards opening up her body to send it high over Stevenage goalkeeper Keri Green and into the back of the net 1-0.

     Despite having been pushed back at the start Dunstable have the lead, it isn't long before Stevenage are coming back at them a tidy pass from Hannah Marshall into Josland, she turns on the edge of the box and shoots, the effort is wide of goal. For once the Dunstable defence has moved up, Stevenage try an over the top ball for Hogan to chase Dunstable goalkeeper Emma Fisher is quick out of her goal to kick clear.

    McGuigan has a shot on goal from 20 yards, Fisher makes the save, the ball loose comes back to McGuigan this time the shot is fired wide across goal. Josland then with another piece of good work down the right puts in a vicious cross high towards the near post Fisher unfazed by players coming in takes a good catch.

     Much of the time Dunstable have ten players back in their own half defending. Are keeping a good shape though with Carty looking to win the ball back and spring an attacking move. However Carty makes an error that leads to Stevenage getting an equalising goal looks to pass the ball back to Fisher in goal, not enough weight on the pass, Stevenage's Hogan is alert and races to intercept steals in taking the ball around Fisher then cutting back in shoots from an acute angle to make it 1-1.

    Dunstable have a free kick in their own half played forwards, Keri Green keeps her eye on the ball and holds onto it despite being flattened by Dunstable's Chelsea Forde who tries to meet the long ball.

    Stevenage continue to press, Josie North puts a free kick from 25 yards over the bar. From a corner Alex North up from the back heads down into the crowded six yard box, Dunstable scramble it away. Hollie Jardine has a shot from distance that Fisher punches away.

   Carty for Dunstable plays a great through ball into the run of Forde, she shoots on the run from 20 yards, pulls the effort wide of the post. Dunstable have a player down with a head knock there is a delay in play.

     Once play resumes Dunstable capitalise as the ball is played forwards Forde is on side, on the run to the left shoots sending it across Green and into the back of the net to restore the lead 2-1.

     Last chance of the 1st half falls to Stevenage a free kick in a dangerous position just outside the box to the right of Dunstable's goal it's Hogan with the dummy stepping over the ball North to take passes it to Hogan who flashes a great ball across the goal mouth misses everyone Josland can't quite get there to divert it into the net.

                         Half-time AFC Dunstable Ladies 1-1 Stevenage Ladies

     An entertaining 1st half Dunstable have the lead despite defending so deep for majority of the 45 minutes. Have been solid keeping a good shape making it hard for Stevenage to exploit. Dunstable to kick off the 2nd half, soon though it's back to Stevenage and they are pushing the home side back.

    Dunstable have a player down injured, Abi Cartwright she can't carry on, is taken off, the substitute, Dionne Manning. A free kick has been conceded by Dunstable wide right the set piece is launched towards the far post by North, Three Stevenage players are converging to meet it, Fisher can't take the ball, it's Josland who gets her head on it and sends it home to bring Stevenage level for the 2nd time in the match 2-2.

    Dionne Manning has come on and gone up top to support Skinner, looks like she has pace to burn. A long throw comes into the Stevenage box Forde with the lay off into the feet of Manning just inside the box tries to turn her marker to get the shot away but her attempt is blocked.

     I thought the next Dunstable attack was ending with a goal so did everyone else my notes even say 3-2.. but.. Manning is through with her pace leaves the Stevenage defence behind, Green comes rushing out Manning slots the ball under her dive, I thought it was in.. it wasn't, somehow finding the post and staying out.

   McGuigan for Stevenage volleys wide from inside the box from a corner. With Manning up front Stevenage aren't prepared to keep such a high line the play is spread Dunstable have more space to work with are enjoying a spell of pressure.

    A loose Stevenage pass puts Manning in charges towards the box, Green comes rushing out to stop her makes a great save to block her shot, the ball is loose though comes to Kerry Stratton on the edge of the box, putting the ball over Green who is trying to get back into position and Dunstable lead for the 3rd time in the match 3-2.

    At the other end Emma Fisher is called into action in the Dunstable goal producing a fantastic double save, the 1st with her legs to stop a shot coming in wide left the ball swerves back out into the box players are coming in the shot comes in Fisher though scrambles to make the diving save, corner.

    Stevenage bring on Dominique Godbeer for Laura Shearwood, goes into the back line to deal with the threat Manning's pace gives Dunstable.

    The visitors pulls the scores level for the 3rd time in the match have the ball in and around the Dunstable penalty area for a spell before a great cross is put in from the right, coming in at the near post Josland unmarked meets it with her head smashing in the goal to make it 3-3.

     Stevenage press hard looking for a late winning goal, Dunstable are back defending Steph Fisher with a vital tackle to stop Josland running clear with the ball inside the box.

    Jardine for Stevenage with a strong run and shot straight against Fisher as she comes rushing out the rebounded effort is sent goalwards is going in except for Lauren Chimes who races back to cover and clear off the line.

      Forde has a shot from outside the box that takes a deflection late in the match, Green makes the save, the last action of the match as the full-time whistle blows and the points are shared as the score finishes 3-3.

     An entertaining match, both teams will think they did enough to win it had chances to, will certainly feel they didn't deserve to lose it, so a point is good on both counts.

    An enjoyable trip to Bedfordshire I thank Dunstable for their hospitality and both clubs for their help with team details. A good advert for women's football in the Eastern Region Women's Football League.

 

Match Report - Fakenham Town Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

     Today was the start of the new season in the Norfolk Women's Football League. 2 divisions, featuring 22 teams in all, it was to the season opener between Fakenham Town Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies that I travelled. In the Norfolk Women's Division 1 this was an unsual journey for me.. in that it was under 20 miles from home.

   Just my 2nd trip to Fakenham Town Ladies home ground Clipbush Park, this is the 1st time I'd seen the ladies team play there. Had seen their opponents play there a couple of seasons back in the Norfolk County Cup final. Thorpe United Ladies are the Norfolk Women's Division 1 title winners and as defending champions represented a tough opening fixture for Fakenham Town Ladies.

    This though was a much changed starting XI for Thorpe United Ladies, than the team that won the league last season, with players departing for new challenges or unavailable. Still had a good number of experienced players to call upon.

   Clipbush Park is a decent ground with good facilities a friendly atomosphere, the pitch looked lush and green the weather perfect for the match bright and sunny by not overly hot, with a slight breeze.

   Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI - Chantelle Bauer, Kaleige Robb, Roxanne Bailey, Jemma Riches, Nina Batchelor, Vicki Riddiford, Lauren Matthews, Amie Hutchinson, Sam King (C), Natalie Wright & Sain Sands.
                     subs - Maddie Smith, Jenny Codman & Natalie Merry

   Thorpe United Ladies starting XI - Kirsty Andrews, Chelsea Clarke, Ashleigh Shreeve, Alice Ford, Nicole Read, Bethan Sommerfield, Hayley Kindred, Kim Broom, Sophie Jermy, Rebekah Lake (C) & Rachael Wall
                      sub - Kirsty Kindred

    It was Fakenham kitted out in yellow shirts with a black right sleeve, black shorts and yellow socks with black and white banding to kick off the match against Thorpe lined up in thier pink shirts and socks with black shorts.

    Was the visitors with the early chance though, Thorpe captain Rebekah Lake on the shoulder of the last defender finds herself clear played in she is through on goal, Fakenham goalkeeper Chantelle Bauer rushes out to try and stop the shot, Lake gets the ball past her, the attempt though lacks the pace to find the back of the net as Bauer recovers rushes back and kicks the ball off the line to safety.

    In attack Fakenham make good progress down the right of the pitch through Natalie Wright, winning a corner, she is waiting at the edge of the box for the set piece to come in, hooks the ball goalwards, straight into Thorpe goalkeeper, Kirsty Andrews hands.

    The opening exchanges are fairly even Thorpe looking to get runners on the ball from midfield, with Bauer not afraid to charge out of her area to clear the ball. Steady build up play from Fakenham down the left from Nina Batchelor plays the ball into Wright central her shot outside the area is blocked.

    Lake fed the ball plays a good pass out to Hayley Kindred making a run down the right wing, she cuts inside closing into the box has a shot, swerving it doesn't trouble Bauer. Fakenham with a free kick inside the Thorpe half the ball is played into the box by Amie Hutchinson is met by captain Sam King who heads down comes out to Batchelor who strikes the ball, in goal Andrews is well positioned to make the save.

   Fakenham's Lauren Matthews is played through out on the left, comes inside but slips as she shapes to shoot. The home side are working hard to win the ball in the middle, preventing Thorpe from building any momentum then looking to attack quickly when they have the ball.

Thorpe United Ladies captain Rebekah Lake

   When Thorpe do get the ball on the flanks the full backs stick to their tasks well stop the ball coming into Lake in the centre. Give away a corner on the right the ball comes into the box Rachael Wall rises to head the ball down towards goal, Bauer is no where near it however Fakenham have players back on the line to clear.

    Fakenham's Vicki Riddiford blazes over from 30 yards out, then Sam King puts wide from 20 yards as Wright wins the ball and plays her in. Thorpe make a change Kirsty Kindred their only sub coming on for Ashleigh Shreeve. A 3rd long range strike comes in towards the Thorpe goal this time Andrews is beaten by the dipping effort from Nina Batchelor after Fakenham work the ball across the Thorpe back line 1-0.

Fakenham Town Ladies captain Sam King has a strike on goal

     Thorpe are struggling to retain possession of the ball for long, get it out to Hayley Kindred out left she puts a ball in over the top for Lake to chase Bauer though is quickly out again. Fakenham break Hutchinson bursts forwards from the back sees the run from King tries to play her in, it's Andrews though quickly out of her box to intercept the ball.

   Thorpe lose their captain through injury as Lake is looking to make a run get into the box she is taken down by Hutchinson right on the line goes over in a lot of pain, play is delayed for a spell as she receives treatment can't carry on is carried off, later to go to hospital, can only hope the injury isn't too serious and wish her a speedy recovery.

    Shreeve back on Thorpe have the free kick, Hutchinson luck not to get booked. Hayley Kindred to deliver puts in a great ball with pace a good height it's Kirsty Kindred coming in can't quite get their as Bauer plucks the ball out of the air.

   Fakenham double their lead as half time approaches as the home side wins the ball back from the Thorpe defence the pass is into Wright on the right hand corner of the box she shapes to shoot puts a low effort into the far corner 2-0.

   Thorpe have a last chance to pull one goal back before the break Hayley Kindred playing in Wall, Bauer saves at point blank range, then slides in clearing with her feet before anyone can pounce on the loose ball.

                          Half time Fakenham Town Ladies 2-0 Thorpe United Ladies

   A strong 1st half performance from Fakenham had worked hard as a team unit to win the ball and prevent Thorpe getting numbers forwards in attack, would they be able to maintain it 2nd half. Thorpe had alot of work to do and with no subs to call upon it was up to the 11 on the pitch to try and get back into the match as they kicked off the 2nd period.

    Start brightly with Wall out on the left winning the ball and looking to drive forwards is eventually crowded off the ball. There are some strong challenges coming in the battle in the middle of the park is hotting up with Thorpe's Alice Ford and Kim Broom looking to win the ball higher up the pitch to spring a Thorpe attack, Broom has a strike from 25 yards out that bouces wide of goal.

   Fakenham equally look to counter with Riddiford and Batchelor combining well the latter with a shot a stab goalwards that lacks any pace from the edge of the box. Hayley and Kirsty Kindred link up well as a Thorpe attack builds down the right Hayley playing the ball into Kirsty  her looping effort towards goal is over.

Thorpe United Ladies Kirsty Kindred

    Ford wins the ball again plays a perfectly weighted pass out to Wall on the left she comes inside is fouled but rides the challenge the advantage played she shoots putting the ball across the goal mouth and wide for a goal kick.

    Again possession is won back the ball is played out to Wall runs with it down the left channel launches the ball goalwards and Bauer is beaten to pull one back for the visitors 2-1.

   Thorpe are pressing hard for a 2nd goal Wall heads wide frrom a corner. She then turns provider from a break plays a ball into the middle in front of Fakenham's goal outside the box, the home side can't clear the ball as it squirms loose for Hayley Kindred to latch onto, gets the ball out from under her feet and curls a shot goalwards into the top right hand corner to pull the scores level 2-2.

     Fakenham have a good chance a great ball played across the pitch from the left comes to Jennifer Codman playing on the shoulder of the last defender, shoots on the run the ball gets too much swerve and goes wide.

   Much improved 2nd half from Thorpe, Ford winning the back drives forwards plays the ball into Hayley Kindred inside the box she turns and shoots, Bauer saves.

    Fakenham break Batchelor having a go from long range the shot is blocked there are cries for handball, the referee allows play to continue the ball spinning out to Codman wide right her shot fired in is narrowly wide.

    Thorpe break Hayley and Kirsty Kindred together win their team a corner, fired towards the crowded near post area Bauer comes but doesn't get the ball as it comes through Kirsty Kindred on the spot to put the ball home with a great finish to give the visitors the lead 2-3.

   Down the other end Andrews is called into action saving of Wright as a headed clearance falls to her outside the box. Ford wins another tackle drives forwards and opts to shoot from 25 yards drill the effort wide.

Natalie Wright on the attack for Fakenham Town Ladies

       The final whistle blows and Thorpe come back from 2 goals down a half time to win 2-3. A good fightback in the 2nd half to open their campaign with 3 points.

    Fakenham will be disappointed to loose the match. It was a strong performance particulary in the 1st half to go 2 goals up against the defending champions and they can use that going forwards into the season.

   All in all a fantastic match to watch on the opening day of the Norfolk Women's football season and I am looking forwards to seeing more over the coming months.

   

     

Match Report - Ipswich Town Ladies v C&K Basildon Ladies FAWPL South East Division One

     A trip down to Suffolk this Thursday to watch another match in the FA Women's Premier League South East Division One, the 2nd league match of the new season for Ipswich Town Ladies and their visitors C&K Basildon Ladies.

    Both had progressed into the FAWPL Cup 1st round at the weekend with victories and received a bye avoiding a Preliminary Game. Now it was back to league action, Ipswich Town Ladies had lost their opening day fixtures away to Norwich City Ladies. Had showed character coming back from 3-0 down to pull the scores back to 3-3 before Norwich went on the score twice more to seal a 5-3 win (see earlier match report).

   C&K Basildon had started their league campaign with a 3-2 home win against FAWPL South East Division One new comers Bedford Ladies. Were a team I was keen to have a look an early doors into the season. In my opinion favourites for the league title this season have been run into a very close 2nd spot to last seasons champions QPR Ladies. Still it's a new season and you need to see the teams play.

    The venue the SEH Sports Ground, home to Ipswich Wanderers. A nice ground was my 1st visit only just made kick off the trip taking longer than I'd expected, still easy enough to find with the sat nav. A covered stand down one side of the pitch with some seating, the pitch looked in great condition. A cooler evening with cloud cover.

     Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI - Chloe Wood, Ellie Rossiter, Aimee Harrison, Lindsey Smith, Lucy Du Plooy, Dani Bitten (C), Coral Young, Amanda Crump, Jemma Yarnton, Sasha Diston & Jasmine Cox

     C&K Basildon Ladies starting XI - Melaine Kinsalla, Merrick Will, Hannah Porter, Claire Lacey (C), Carly Copplestone, Amy Nash, Carly Eagles, Karen Stephanou, Zoe Rushen, Karissa Rodney & Sara Sinclair

    A new signing for C&K Basildon playing at right back, Merrick Will a player I recognise from seeing her at a game playing for Gorleston Rangers Ladies in the Norfolk Women's County League last season, it's fantastic to see her having a crack at playing in a higher league, and good to see players stepping up the leagues within in the game.

   It was C&K Basildon in their red kit with yellow trim on the shoulders of their shirts to kick off the match, lined up against Ipswich in their kit of blue shirts and socks with white shorts. It's the visitors with the early attacking play, winning a corner the ball is played into the near post area Ipswich clear.

    C&K Basildon's Karrissa Rodney is the 1st to the ball as a 2nd corner kick comes in heads her effort across the goal mouth at the near post off target. The ball comes across the pitch to Rodney out wide on the left on the run with the ball at her feet she puts in a cross diagonally towards the far post area, striker Sara Siclair coming in can't get to it as Ipswich goalkeeper Chloe Wood sees it wide.

   Ipswich start to come back into the match the ball played out to their wide left where attacker Jasmine Cox has made a good run to get into a position to attack the C&K Basildon goal, it's Merrick Will who tracks back with her putting in a good sliding tackle to prevent the cross coming in.

    The ball is travelling up and down the pitch at a fast pace, although both sides are looking to keep it on the deck the teams cancelling each other out somewhat with attacking moves breaking down in the final third. Finding space to run into on the left it's C&K Basildon's Rodney who looks the most likely to create something, on the run with the ball again she shoots pulls the effort across goal.

   Amy Nash for C&K Basildon has a shot from outside the box as the visitors enjoy a spell of sustained possession around Ipswich's penalty box the effort wide.

    Ipswich's Sasha Diston with the ball looks to play a through ball past C&K Basildon's defensive line for Jasmine Cox to run onto, the ball gets a flick from a defender, the ball is deflected, Cox is onto it drives into the area from the right her shot lacks the power to trouble C&K Basildon goalkeeper Melanie Kinsalla.

    Ipswich are forced into a change as left back Lucy Du Plooy down after a challenge has to come off, Amy Cook coming on to fill the position at the back. In attack C&K Basildon's Zoe Rushen passes the ball ack to Kinsalla. Her kick up field is smashed against the onrushing Cox the ball spinning up and over her but save as it is wide of goal.

   Ipswich captain Dani Bitten wins the ball and drives forwards looks to play in Cox, who looks to play a one two the eventual shot is blocked goes behind for a corner the set piece very nearly finding the head of defender Lindsey Smith before C&K Basildon clear.

    Amanda Crump for Ipswich has a miscued shot from 30 yards out, Cox recovers the ball and playing a cross in from the right sees C&K Basildon captain Claire Lacey head away for a corner. The corner comes in at a good height to the far post Kinsalla tries to come through the crowd C&K Basildon claiming she is fouled as Lindsey Smith gets her head to the ball and scores, the goal is given 1-0.

    C&K Basildon look to attack straight from their kick off with Sara Sinclair blazing her shot over the bar as a deflected shot from Rushen comes out to her unmarked. C&K Baslidon win a free kick wide right 30 yards from goal Rushen to play in Ipswich's Ellie Rossiter heads the ball clear, but a 2nd free kick is given same place, 5 yards closer to goal Rushen shoots aiming for the near post wins a corner. Wood comes out to catch the ball at the near post.

                      Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 1-0 C&K Basildon Ladies.

    A fast paced 1st half with both teams competing to win the ball back and get it forwards, C&K Basildon creating more chances, but it was Ipswich with the goal to have the lead as they kick off the 2nd period.

      C&K Basildon win a free kick in the middle take it quickly looking to catch Ipswich off guard Rodney has the ball breaks into the box shoots, Rossiter with the block, they get a counter attack going down the left Amanda Crump looks to play a cross in too close to goal Kinsalla can see it wide of her far post.

    Crump then has another chance opens her body up to curl one in from the corner of the penalty box good effort the chance goes wide.

     C&K Basildon take another quick free kick after Sinclair is fouled, this time Rushen puts the shot over the bar. Rodney then with a goos cross in from the left the ball headed clear another free kick is given to the right of the penalty box it's Amy Nash over the ball plays it into the far post area the ball is headed down into the path of Rushen who volleys over, a slight deflection a corner is given from which Lacey heads over.

    C&K Basildon are piling on the pressure Ipswich are defending deeper give away a corner the ball coming in causes havoc is loose and bodies pile in trying to clear and shoot goalwards Ipswich can't clear it far enough comes out to Carly Eagles who shoots through the crowd the ball goes in to pull the scores level 1-1.

     Moments later C&K Basildon take the lead a give and go between Rushen and Nash on the edge of Ipswich's box, Nash's shot is blocked spins loose to Rushen she puts the ball back across Wood's goal and finds the bottom corner to make it 1-2.

     C&K Basildon are on top now pushing Ispwich back as they look for more goals Rushen in particular looking a threat when ever she has the ball at her feet. Make a change bringing on Nicola Carty for Merrick Will. Ipswich bring on Enya Moore for Jemma Yarnton.

    Nash with a good pass out to Rodney left she plays in good cross the ball is cleared but only as far as midfielder Karen Stephanou who drags her shot wide of the post from outside the area. Rodney is in again comes inside to shoot, produces a great save from Wood to deflect the ball wide.

   Ipswich with a a rare counter attack put the ball wide with a long range attempt. C&K Basildon make a 2nd change Stephanou coming of for Kathleen Clifton. For a moment C&K Basildon are exposed with all their outfield players in Ipswich's half the home side get the ball over them for Crump and Cox to chase down however Kinsalla has come charging up the pitch to smash the clearance.

      Amy Cook clips the heels of Sinclar to give C&K Basildon a free kick on the corner of the area from the right Nash to deliver, it's Lacey who heads the ball down at the far post to beat Wood and extend the lead 1-3.

    Final change for C&K Basildon, Rodney coming off, Lucy Wyatt coming on. Ipswich attack the ball into Crump outside the box she shhots low, a great save from Kinsalla though to give the home side a corner, played into the danger area it his headed over.

     Crump comes off late on for Ipswich with Ellie Froud coming on, it's late in the match C&K Basildon with a corner the ball isn't cleared far enough falls to Kathleen Clifton on the left 25 yards out fires the shot back in Wood leaps does well to get something on it, but can't prevent the strike going in is devastated as Clifton wheels away in celebration C&K Basildon lead 1-4.

     That's how the match finishes with C&K Basildon coming back from going a goal down in the 1st half with a strong 2nd half performance scoring 4 goals to claim the 3 points and start the season with back to back league victories.

       There were 3 other fixtures in the FAWPL South East Division One tonight, with new league entrants Crystal Palace scoring 14 goals against Ebbsfleet United Ladies at home.

      Luton Town Ladies beat local rivals Bedford Ladies 2-1. With Denham United Ladies beating Enfield Town Ladies 3-1.

    Yesterday Cambridge WFC beat Norwich City Ladies 3-1 away with Nuala Wayne scoring a hat-trick.