Match Report - Lynn Ladies v Acle United Ladies

   Another women's County Cup quarter final for me this Sunday, albeit a journey much closer to home a short drive over to West Lynn to watch Lynn Ladies v Acle United Ladies.

   Postponed from last weekend both clubs were sure to fancy their chances of reaching the semi final stage of the Norfolk Women's County Cup. Lynn Ladies are riding high in the Norfolk Women's Division Two in 2nd place having suffered just the one defeat so far this campaign. Newly formed this season the club is aiming for success in all competitons. Today would be their toughest test to date though as they played host to a team plying their trade three divisions above.

   Apart from Norwich City Ladies and their Reserve side, Acle United Ladies are the only other football team in Norfolk to play in a league outside of the county set up. Are newly promoted to the Eastern Region Women's Football League Premier Division this campaign. Has been a tough season so far in that league, with the club sitting bottom of the table having struggled to pick up points just a single win so far. The County Cup quarter final was a good distraction and opportunity to lift confidence and get back to winning ways. This was also the first match in charge for their new manager Nathan Einecker.

   Was a bitterly cold, but bright day when I arrived at the West Lynn Social Club prior to the match, so why I asked for ice with my coke I don't know as I stepped outside to find the teams. The large pitch looked somewhat cut up from a match played upon it earlier the teams warming up off it.

    Lynn Ladies starting XI - Bryony Russell-Smith, Kirsty Scott, Katie Garner, Millie Wilson, Emma Woods, Natalie Bunton, Bethan Jones, Lisa Wilson, Jodie Hopkins, Shelley Woods (C) & Josie Turner.
   subs - Ellen Groves, Louise Coggles & April Kitchen.

  Acle United Ladies starting XI - Chloe Nixon, Cara Anderson, Helen Emmerson (C), Gemma Bovington, Leah McGuire, Natasha Greenfield, Imogen Williams, Laura Hedtke, Joanne Hooper, Francesca Lambert & Sharnie Boast.
  subs - Jenna Thurtle & Leonie Daulby.

                                                        roll on roll off substitutes.

  It was Lynn kitted out all in purple to kick off the match against Acle lined up in black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. It as a frantic pace to start with the ball being exchanged between both sides as players were closed down all over the park, play restricted to the middle third with anyone attempting to make a run with the ball running into a tackle.

   Acle's Imogen Williams is one in particular looking to take on players as the ball comes into her pushing out to the right channel she looks to put an early ball through into Lynn's box for her team mates to chase, gets too much on the ball Lynn goalkeeper Bryony Russell-Smith can see it wide for a goal kick.

   On the opposite side of the pitch it's Francesa Lambert who attempts to put the ball through for Williams as she makes the run across the area. With the Lynn centre backs, Millie Wilson and Emma Woods closing the gap Williams can't squeeze the ball through to get in on goal.

   Lynn are working hard to press Acle when they have the ball win it early and look to get an attacking move going. In the centre circle Bethan Jones wins the ball looks up sees striker Josie Turner ready to make a run puts the ball over the top of the Acle back line for her to chase down she breaks clear the ball at the edge of the area, Chloe Nixon in the Acle goal comes out early slides in to reach the ball before Turner can get a boot to it, the ball loose on the left is put back into Turner who 25 yards out tries to curl a shot towards goal with Nixon back peddling, the effort is wide of target.

    GOAL! Lynn aren't afraid to try an effort at goal from distance. Pressing Acle in their own half it's Lisa Wilson who wins the ball back looks to push forwards with it, strikes the ball from 35 yards out the ball keeping low has plenty of pace as it flies towards the goal, Nixon dives at her near post to stop it, doesn't get enough of the ball, can only turn and look as it squirms past her and over the line even as Josie Turner races in to make sure. Wilson definately claims the goal (despite me awarding it to her captain by mistake).

    Acle are on the attack straight from the restart with Williams on the ball down the right again the ball is fired into the box Russell-Smith with sharp reflexes to make the save push the ball behind for a corner. Form the Acle corner Lynn launch a counter attack with Turner holding up the ball half way pushes it into Woods who comes out in support down the left she puts the ball across the box into no 11 Jodie Hopkins, Acle have gotten players back and it's their no 11 Francesa Lambert who closes Hopkins down and puts in a great tackle to prevent a shooting opportunity.

  Lynn have a corner on the right the ball is played into the crowded six yard area falls to Millie Wilson she puts her foot through the ball see's her shot blocked by the player Acle have place at the far post. Nixon is then called into action making a good save low at her near post as Lynn's Lisa Wilson bursts down the left playing a good one two with Turner, Wilson bursts into the box and shoots producing the save from Nixon.

  Lynn are frustrating Acle playing a high tempo pressing game not letting the visitors build anything from the back keeping a tight shape leaving no spaces to exploit. Acle's Joanne Hooper playing in the centre of midfield get's hold of the ball passes in forwards into Sharnie Boast she has Lambert making a run on her left plays the forwards pass, Lambert's first touch is heavy having gotten past her marker she has too much to do to reach the ball before Russell-Smith can get out and claim the ball. Lynn make the first change with Louise Coggles coming on for Natalie Bunton and going up front.

   Laura Hedtke has the ball at her feet and from the half way line looks to drive on hits the ball on the run a good way out Russell-Smith has plenty of time to sight the looping shot and catch the ball. Acle make a change with Jenna Thurtle coming on for Joanne Hooper.

   Bethan Jones brings the ball out from the back for Lynn is hard to shake off the ball, puts it out wide to Woods in space out on the left she pushes down the channel finds Jones inside the box with her cross, Jones up against Acle captain Helen Emmerson can't find the half a yard needed to get her shot away, numbers back in support Acle clear. Acle make a second change with Leonie Daubly coming on for Cara Anderson. Lambert is yellow carded after she fouls Jones down near Lynn corner flag.

Acle United Ladies Sharnie Boast

   Sharnie Boast working in the middle for Acle is frequently looking to push on with the ball more often than not looking for a pass forwards to either flank she takes a shot from 30 yards out this time gets too much under the ball scoops it up and over the crossbar. Boast has another attempt on goal soon after as she brings down a poorly cleared Lynn ball sends a low shot in back towards goal, Russell-Smith is well placed to intercept. In the closing minutes Acle have a corner from the right played out to the edge of the area the shot fired back in brushes the outside of the post.

                              Half-time Lynn Ladies 1-0 Acle United Ladies

  A fast paced 1st half Lynn have played a high tempo pressing game that his frustrated Acle prevented them getting any flow going although both defences have had little cause for concern with neither side getting in behind very often. Only one goal in it still all to play for 2nd half.

   Acle kick off the 2nd half with Hooper back on the pitch for Boast, Bunton is back on too for Lynn with Coggles off. Early on Jones gets hold of the ball in the middle for Lynn set's up an attack releasing Bunton who has space to surge into on the right. Her cross is left by the defender as she allows it to carry through to keeper Nixon, almost a costly mistake as she hasn't seen Turner closing her down gets to the ball first but sends it wide of goal.

   End to end for a spell as both sides begin the half in determined fashion with Lynn on the attack with Woods putting Turner through she lays the ball off to her left with Wilson making the run, she is tackled by Acle's Natasha Greenfield as she tries to skip past the right back, who launches the ball forwards with Hedtke heading it on for Daulby she pulls out to the right plays the ball into the box with Thurtle coming in to head the ball Lynn's Emma Woods jumps to reach it first and clear.

   Nixon makes another vital save diving to stop a low drive from Turner as she bursts clear of everyone opts to shoot early 25 yards out.

   It's Acle's turn to have a shot cleared off the line as they win a corner. The ball is fired in with pace low into Lambert making a run towards it she looks to flick it beyond her to the crowded penalty area beyond, the ball is put in towards goal a purple body is there on the line to block. Acle are pushing Lynn back now putting pressure on the ball higher up the pitch just as Lynn were doing to them in the 1st half. Up front Thurtle and Daulby are using the space better.

   Boast returns to the pitch with Lambert the player off. In the middle of the park their is a good contest going on between Lynn's Jones and Acle's Hooper, both committed players Jones comes off the better holding onto the the ball as Hooper comes in strongly leaves herself poleaxed on the floor for a moment or two.

   GOAL! Acle have been pushing hard looking for the equaliser and they get it as the ball is played forwards it is a hooked clearance that is intercepted by Thurtle 30 yards from goal she keeps hold of the ball riding a couple of Lynn challenges, steals into the box pushing left of the goal face she sends her shot back across the keeper and into the net 1-1.

Acle United Ladies Jenna Thurtle on the attack

  Lynn look to restore the lead right from the restart as Turner brings the ball down with her chest her back to goal, Woods gets onto the ball and shoots drags it wide of goal. Good again from Jones in the middle finds Bunton on the right pushing close to the by line puts the cross in looking for Turner making the run but too close to Nixon. Into the last 10 minutes of the match, Hopkins comes off for Lynn with Coggles back on up front.

  GOAL! Acle win a free kick out wide left half way between the centre cirle and area it's Sharnie Boast over the ball with everyone else inside the box. Striking the ball it is a high flighted ball, it looks like the perfect strike, on target is over everyone no one can get near it as it flys into the back of the net at the far post and gives Acle the lead 1-2.

  Lynn have to go for it with minutes to go, go 3-4-3 with Ellen Groves and April Kitchen coming on. The home side struggle to get the ball back do win a corner overload the box the ball is put into the near post it's an Acle head that clears. They break, the ball put up to Thurtle she has Jones for company as the Lynn player tracks back to take the ball from her inside the box.

   Closing moments and Boast gets herself a red card for saying something to the referee she shouldn't have. Doesn't effect the final score as the whistle blows and Acle United Ladies comeback from a goal down to win the match 2-1 and progress to the semi finals for the Norfolk Women's County Cup where they will play a home match against Wymondham Town Ladies.

   The other semi final will be contested between last years runners up Thorpe United Ladies and Stalham Town Ladies.

   A good contest today from two committed sides, high tempo with Lynn getting the better of the 1st half, will be disappointed to have conceded the way they did in the end maybe needed a 2nd goal to take the pressure off. Acle were frustrated 1st half but dug in 2nd half pressed the ball better and fought their way back into the match.

   Thanks to both clubs for their help with the squad details today.

Match Report - Bedford Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies

  A weekend of Women's County Cup quarter finals up and down the country with the East seeing teams from Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk & Essex all looking to win a place in the semi-finals. With plenty of appetising fixtures to choose from I was spoilt for choice this Sunday, the weather though as it always does this time of year threatened to cause chaos was a cold and frosty start to the weekend, decided on a trip down to Bedfordshire to watch Bedford Ladies v AFC Dunstable Ladies.

    The weather as it turned out wasn't that bad and the run down to Bedford Ladies home at the Wootton Blue Cross stadium straight forwards. Not much above freezing the sun had enough in it to clear any frost from the morning, the pitch on 1st inspection looked in great condition for the time of year. A County Cup always represents a great chance for a club to challenge for some silverware and Bedford Ladies are the current holders of the trophy having beaten Luton Town Ladies on penalties last season having played out a 2-2 draw.

    Both Bedford Ladies and AFC Dunstable Ladies are two of the big guns in women's football in Bedfordshire and received a bye in the competition until the quarter final stage where they were drawn out of the hat to face each other. Both teams have a similar story in that they were both promoted last season. Bedford Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division to go up into the FAWPL South East Division One, with AFC Dunstable Ladies coming up into the ERWFL Premier Division having won the ERWFL Division One South last season.

   Has been a case for both of trying to establish themselves in their new leagues and both have picked up points over recent games. The County Cup quarter final then represented a great chance for both to go for some silverware. My first visit to Wootton Blue Cross the stadium is set off the street in a residentual area with good facilties and social club, some covered seating along one side. I thought kick off was at 1:30, but it was actually 2pm still at least I was nice and early for a change.

   Bedford Ladies starting XI - Katie Upton, Shannon Carroll, Sophie Britton, Suzie Darby, Charlotte Burton, Chloe Scott, Maisie Wyatt, Natasha Fensome (C), Chelsea Hunter, Rebecca Vass & Eden Washington.
     subs - Ella Meadowcroft, Holly Venn, Antonia Mitchell.

   AFC Dunstable Ladies starting XI - Gemma Fisher, Elly Wade, Lauren Chimes (C), Steph Fisher, Julia Robathan, Charlotte South, Paige Kavanagh, Danielle Carty, Carly Cowell, Tamara Bayne & Chelsea Forde.
    subs - Kayleigh Nias & Dionne Manning.

 It's Bedford to kick off the match in their kit of blue and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks, against Dunstable lined up all in red. It's the visitors that start the brighter are after Bedford from the kick off pressing and winning the ball with Danielle Carty playing the ball out into space on the left for team mate Chelsea Forde to run onto she drives to the byline looks to put an early ball into the box, it's a Bedford centre back that meets the ball heads away. Dunstable continue to keep Bedford in their own half.

AFC Dunstable Ladies Danielle Carty

   GOAL! Dunstable are undone however as Bedford captain Natasha Fensome gets hold of the ball in the centre circle, chases it out to the left wing and surges forwards, has players breaking with her sends it into Eden Washington running into the box, she plays it across the area where Chelsea Hunter is waiting to receive the ball, the Dunstable defence having been drawn across to the ball, Hunter at the far post has the time to place the ball into the back of the net 1-0.

 

Bedford Ladies captain Natasha Fensome looking to start an attack

   Dunstable are getting the ball up into their attackers, Carly Cowell and Tamara Bayne are strong can hold the ball up whilst Chelsea Forde in particular is looking to support, get numbers forwards from a throw in the ball is sent over the Bedford goal as it drops to Danielle Carty inside the box. At the other end Bedford are looking to release Eden Washington get her one and one against the Dunstable defence, on two occassions she is shoulder to shoulder with Elly Wade, the Dunstable defender putting in a good challenge to take the ball from her.

   Washington wins a header in a central position her back to goal plays in Maisie Wyatt making a run to her left, the no 7 bursts into the box, Dunstable goal keeper Gemma Fisher comes out to close her down, makes the save with her legs as she slides in to challenge for the ball, does well the ball going out for a throw.

   Bedford having been squeezed on the ball themselves early on now start to turn the tables on Dunstable as their midfield presses the visitors in the middle looking to win the ball earlier and set up an attack with Fensome in the heart of the action.

   GOAL! It's Fensome making the tackle then taking the ball out to the left that sets up another goal for Bedford, driving forwards fires her cross in low on the diagonal across the area comes through to Rebecca Vass who has made the run to the far post froman acute angle she has the time to compose herself fires the ball back across the goal and in to make it 2-0.

Bedford Ladies Rebecca Vass

   GOAL! Barely time to write down the details of Vass' first goal before she get's in on the scoring act again, right from Dunstable's retake, Bedford hustle the ball, win it and once again driving down the left fire an early cross into the box, Vass is at the near post six to eight yards out as the ball comes into her she sends the ball towards goal over keeper Fisher as she tries to block and into the back of the net 3-0.

   Fisher almost spills a vicious shot sent in by Fensome from distance as the Bedford captain wins the ball back and looks to strike from distance. Fisher gets a glove on the ball it doesn't stick but as she is closed down on her line she recovers to drop and claim the ball. Dunstable are struggling to get the ball out from the back with both full backs being kept occupied. Washington finds space out on the right looks to push into the box, Dunstable full back Paige Kavanagh gives chase slides in to put the ball behind for a corner.

   GOAL! Fensome gets the goal that her all round play in the 1st half has deserved, with Vass turning provider this time as the two combine with Fensome playing the ball high for Vass on the edge of the box, Fensome continues her run as Vass heads the ball on weighted perfectly for Fensome who storms into the box and sends the ball over Fisher to score 4-0.

   In the middle of the park Dunstable's Charlotte South puts a good tackle in on Fensome to get hold of the ball, looks to push on sends it out to Bayne on the left finds the space for a cross, has players making ground to get into the area puts the ball across but behind Danielle Carty.

   GOAL! Dunstable retain the ball with numbers pushed up it's Chelsea Forde who has the ball at her feet 25 yards out central she puts her foot through the shot sends the ball into the back of the net to pull a goal back for the visitors 4-1.

                           Half-time Bedford Ladies 4-1 AFC Dunstable Ladies

   Bedford find themselves with a comfortable lead after the 1st half with an early goal, then a purple patch towards the latter part of the half to extend their lead. Dunstable pulling one back late on to give them a glimmer of hope of a come back in the 2nd half. It's Dunstable to kick off the 2nd half.

    The 2nd half starts off evenly between both sides, Dunstable work the ball down the left the final pass looking to send Bayne through in on goal finds the attack straying offside.

   Washington on the ball brings it forwards threads a pass through the Dunstable back line for Vass to run down cutting into the box she fires the ball across the six yard line looking for Wyatt coming in the pass is too strong, Wyatt can't meet it as the ball goes out.

   Dunstable win a free kick near the half way line the high ball played into the box is headed clear, comes back out to Forde, she looks to fire in another long range strike doesn't get the height or power needed as it comes in for Bedford goal keeper Katie Upton to save. The ball is played out quickly up the pitch for Fensome to run onto left of the goal she puts a cross/shot wide of the far post.

   Upton has to watch the ball all the way as it drops onto the roof of her net after good build up play from Dunstable with Carly Cowell strong holding onto the ball on the right before playing it into the middle to South, who prods the ball onto Forde who strikes the ball high towards goal but over.

AFC Dunstable Ladies Carly Cowell

   Bayne for Dunstable with the ball on the left this time looking to run with the ball holding off her marker lays it back into South making the ground up to support her, she passes the ball into Forde outside the area she looks to turn and get a shot away, takes a deflection off a Bedford shin pad taking the sting out of the shot allowing Upton to gather easily.

   Bedford attack Fensome centally drives on pops the ball out to Wyatt on her left, the no 7 floats a high ball into the box looking for Vass, she has Elly Wade with her and the Dunstable defender does well to prevent the Bedford striker getting anything on the ball as Fisher comes and takes it. Dunstable make their 1st change with Paige Kavanagh coming off.

   Bedford make a change to with Holly Venn coming on for Chelsea Hunter, the substitution sees Fensome pushed further forwards to support Vass in attack with Washington pulling out wide as Venn joins Chloe Scott in the centre of midfield.

   The home side have a break on from a Dunstable free kick Fensome is on the ball the visitors back line is stretched as they back track, Fensome puts the ball into Vass inside the box she looks to shoot early can't get the ball past Fisher who makes the save.

  GOAL! Bedford add a 5th goal as they win possession back from Dunstables goal kick played down the right Fensome has come out to get onto the ball looks to take players on breaking into the box coming to the corner of the six yard box strikes the ball across the keeper and into the net 5-1.

   Bedford make another change with Sophie Britton coming off to be replaced by Antonia Mitchell. Bedford are looking to put the ball through for Fensome to get onto and take on the Dunstable defence, just too long a pass on one occasion, the next opportunity Fensome has the ball outside the box puts her shot over the cross bar.
 
  Dunstable bring on Dionne Manning for Julia Robathan. The visitors have a free kick out to the left of the area 30 yards out it's Kayleigh Nias to strike the ball, goes for goal, Upton makes a good save to deny her. Chelsea Forde has a go from long range not long after her shot is off target.

   Chloe Scott is getting more time on the ball has space to exploit in the middle as Dunstable look to press on, puts the ball into Fensome pushing forwards she looks to take on the last defender, flicks the ball past her as she enters the box then as Fisher comes rushing out tries to send the ball under her with the outside of her boot, Fisher though is down quick enough to make the save.

Natasha Fensome doing more attacking 2nd half

   Late on with Dunstable pushing a high line Fensome is on the shoulder of the last defender peels away as the ball is put over, she is through with only the keeper to beat, Fisher comes running out Fensome slides the ball past her, but also sends the ball wide of the goal.

    Full-time and Bedford Ladies beat AFC Dunstable Ladies 5-1 to progress to the draw for the semi-finals. A solid performance from the County Cup holders in defence of their trophy. They will be joined in the draw for the semi-finals by Flitwick Ladies who won 4-0 away to Sandy Ladies as well as Offley & Stopsley Ladies who were 2-0 away winners at Toddington Rovers Ladies. The final quarter final between Luton Town Ladies and Leighton United Vixens was postponed.

  A good day out in Bedfordshire my thanks to both clubs managers for helping me out today.

               

Match Report - Lowestoft Town Ladies v Luton Town Ladies

   The 2nd round proper of the FA Women's Cup threw together 22 exciting and intriguing ties, but I had one in particular pencilled in my diary as soon as the draw was made and was very much hoping that it would beat the weather, Lowestoft Town Ladies v Luton Town Ladies.

   Not only was it a wet and windy start to the weekend, but high tides too around the east coast. For all that Sunday morning started cool and fresh the game was on. Lowestoft Town Ladies are undefeated with a 100% win record in the Eastern Region Women's Foolball Leagues (ERWFL) Premier Division, but are playing catch up with most of the teams around them partly due to the run they have had so far in this years FA Women's Cup.

   Reaching the 2nd round proper of the competition is the furthest they have gotten in recent years. Began in the competitions Preliminary round back on the 7th September beating AFC Sudbury Ladies 1-12, then came through 3 Qualifying rounds beating, Billericay Town Ladies, Wealdstone Ladies and FAWPL South East Division One side, Norwich City Ladies to reach the 1st round proper where they were drawn away to London Corinthians, won the match 2-3 to reach the 2nd round.

   I say recent history because a Lowestoft women's team has won the FA Women's Cup, back in 1982, beating Cleveland Spartans 2-0 at Loftus Road. Lowestoft Town FC had brought this winning team back together to make today an extra special occasion for the club and inspire the new generation of women footballers in the town.

   Todays opponents Luton Town Ladies would be the biggest test Lowestoft Town Ladies have faced in this competition yet. Had entered the competition at the 3rd Qualifying round stage beating Leighton United Vixens 1-6 before taking on fellow FAWPL South East Division One side Cambridge WFC winning the match 1-0. Are doing well in the league but wouldn't be taking their lower league opponents lightly.

   A good crowd was building at the Crown Meadow stadium in Lowestoft, my 1st visit to the stadium (although I'd tried but the weather had won out on previous occasions). A nice stadium set in a built up area but with plenty of room inside the ground, good facilties and a good sized pitch both teams took to the pitch looking for a place in the 3rd round.

   Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI - Amy Bell, Jody Wells, Anna Larkins, Megan Cletheroe, Kate Pasque (C), Jodie Drake, Broghan Scully, Natasha Thomas, Chloe Hoffman, Zoe Cossey & Hannah Waters.
    subs - Paige Shorten, Marcie Prettyman, Chloe Pearce, Charnelle Riggall, & Lauren Bullard.

   Luton Town Ladies starting XI - Hollie Staples, Hilary Ferroni, Rachel Kosky, Rachel Carter, Michelle Byrne, Nicki Livingstone, Shanice Jiminez (C), Jael Muzzi, Rebecca Kane, Zara Carroll & Natalie Richardson.
   subs - Erica Byron, Remi Bains, Rebecca Fhalora & Angelica Kopec.

  It's a cool day, bright but with a swirling wind as Lowestoft in their kit of blue shirts, shorts and socks with white trim kick off the tie against Luton lined up in orange shirts, navy shorts and socks. It's the visitors that start the sharper are immediately after Lowestoft pressing them back, Luton's midfielders closing down any attempt to get the ball forwards.

   Lowestoft eventually find an out ball play it long out into the right channel for Natasha Thomas to chase down, on the ball she drives towards the area looks to square an early cross along the goal face puts it too close to Luton goalkeeper, Hollie Staples who intercepts the ball. Lowestoft work the ball across the area look to thread the ball past Hilary Ferroni at right back, put striker Hannah Waters in on goal, Ferroni slides and stretching wins the ball pushes it back to her keeper.

  A Luton attack breaks down and Lowestoft look to counter down the left side of the pitch the ball comes into Thomas coming into a central position she sends the ball into the area picking out the run of Waters she gets her shot away sends the ball across the goal but wide of the far post.

Lowestoft Town Ladies Natasha Thomas on the attack

   It's Lowestoft's turn to press the ball plenty of space to exploit on the large Crown Meadow pitch, Thomas wins her team a corner, played in from the right there is a push outside the box to the right of the goal, the set piece is fired in, Staples throws up her gloves to stop the ball pushes it up onto the bar, it comes down inside the six yard box at the far post the blue shirt that meets it can only deflect the ball back into the middle, Staples is there to claim the ball.

   Luton break get the ball out to captain Shanice Jiminez on the right she pushes forwards is hard to shake off the ball, sends the ball into the box it is put behind for a corner, coming in the ball is cleared but only as far as centre circle the ball is put back into the area, Luton's Zara Carroll sprints clear of the Lowestoft back line can't reach the ball before goalkeeper Amy Bell rushes off her line to win it.

Luton captain Shanice Jiminez battles with Lowestoft's Zoe Cossey for the ball

   Lowestoft win a free kick close to the halfway line, the ball is put into Waters inside the box she turns her marker and looks to move into a position to strike on goal, Staples comes out to try and save at her feet, she gets the ball past her, is pushed wide of goal her shot is flashed across the face of the goal Luton clear.

  GOAL! Lowestoft are starting to get on top in this half, it is Luton however who take the lead capitalising on a defensive error from Lowestoft as the ball is played back to their defence the back pass looking for the keeper has no weight on it at all, Luton's Rebecca Kane is alert and onto it in a flash, she only has the keeper to beat takes it around in on the edge of the box and takes the ball in close to goal sends it into the back of the net 0-1.

   Luton have a spring in their step now, start pressing Lowestoft for the ball again, Kane winning the ball has a shot from 30 yards out puts it wide. Jiminez with another strong run down the right plays a good cross into the area, Kane is there to head it on looking for Jael Muzzi coming in behind her, Bell is in between and stretchs to claim the ball.

   There are some strong challenges coming in from both sides, the referee is letting most thing's go. Luton are attacking down the left it's Muzzi on the ball pushes into the area slips the ball into Kane to her right, the no 11 pushes the ball forwards looks to get onto it send the ball towards goal, Lowestoft's Jody Wells sticks a foot to win the ball but instead trips Bains the referee points to the penalty spot. It's Luton's Carroll with the spot kick sends it towards goal a good height Bell dives and gets a glove on it makes the save, and Lowestoft bring the ball out.

   Lowestoft have a late corner the ball is played across the pitch into midfielder Broghan Scully she hits it from 35 yards out gets it on target but dips too much allowing Staples to bring the ball down into her chest.

                         Half-time Lowestoft Town Ladies 0-1 Luton Town Ladies

  A fast paced 1st half with both sides commited and working hard to close the ball down Lowestoft were getting on top of the match before Luton took advantage of a defensive error to take the lead. Had a penalty to make it 2-0 the save from Bell, keeps the score at just 1-0 with everything to play for in the 2nd half as Luton get it underway.

   Lowestoft have made a change at the break bringing on Marcie Prettyman at right back for Jody Wells. It's Prettyman on the ball plays it into the run of Chloe Hoffman in front of her, Thomas is making a run into the area for her, Hoffman looks to thread the pass through the Luton defence doesn't get it past Rachel Carter.

   Luton's Jiminez looks to have put in a perfectly good tackle deflecting the ball up into Lowestoft's Zoe Cossey and out for what she thinks is a goal kick, the referee gives it the other way much to Luton's annoyance, corner given. Hoffman plays it into Thomas on the corner of the area she shoots the ball is blocked.

Lowestoft Town Ladies Chloe Hoffman

 GOAL! Lowestoft win a free kick centrally 30 yards from goal another decision that infuriates Luton. It's Anna Larkins over the ball. Strikes it perfectly sending it towards goal Staples throws up her hands as the ball smashes against the cross bar and bounces down and out, but it's a goal was over the line and the linesman indicates so, Lowestoft have the equaliser 1-1.

   Luton's Natalie Richardson has the ball at her feet pushes into the left channel, looks to come back inside try to find a way through the Lowestoft back line on the edge of the area, captain Kate Pasque puts in the challenge to win the ball. Pasque then gives away a free kick in a position wide right of the area against Kane. The ball is played in high, rising it's Muzzi who meets it, can get enough on her header her attempt goes wide.

   Thomas has the ball at her feet wide right as Lowestoft break in numbers she looks to put the ball into Waters inside the box, Luton's Rachel Kosky puts it behind for a corner. The set piece is played out to the edge of the area where Jodie Drake looks to get a shot in flashes her effort across the goal and out for a goal kick.

   Luton's Richardson hard to shake off the ball goes on another run looking to come inside and force a way through the lowestoft defence the ball is taken off her feet, comes back out to team mate Nicki Livingstone, she looks to put her foot through the ball too strong the shot is over.

   Another challenge goes against Luton's Jiminez her protests do her little good as she goes into the book. The free kick is played into the area a tackle is put in a Lowestoft player is down they are screaming for a penalty nothing is given a break in play as the injured player receives treatment. Luton manager Nikki Baker takes advantage of the pause in play to call her players over and try and get them to calm down.

   Lowestoft make another change with Paige Shorten coming onto the pitch for Jodie Drake. Shorten immediately looks to push forwards on the ball drives into the area. It's Carter with the tackle to deny her a shot on goal. Shorten is fouled inside the halfway line, Larkins plays the ball wide to Thomas she holds the ball up and turns looking to put the ball in for Waters making a run towards the penalty spot too long Staples as able to gather.

  Lowestoft get caught out commiting too many forwards in attack winning the ball Luton launch a rapid counter attack with Livingstone putting the ball through into the path of Kane she cuts back inside from the right, drills her cross/shot along the goal and wide.

  Lowestoft win a corner it is played out to Broghan Scully in a central position she lays it forwards into the box Shorten rises to head it on, Waters looks offside but no flag, as she is closed down by the keeper puts it wide.

   Good possession from Lowestoft around the Luton box with Waters laying the ball to into the left channel for Cossey, coming back inside she almost feeds it through for Hoffman to run onto the deflected ball comes out to Thomas who takes it out to the wide right position takes on her marker comes inside puts the ball into the area Luton's Kosky rises to head the ball away.

Lowestoft's Zoe Cossey on the ball

  Luton make a change with Kane coming off to be replaced by Erica Byron. She links up well with Livingstone in the middle playing a one two as they close in on the area closed down the shot at goal is high and wild.

   GOAL! The match is into the last 10 minutes Lowestoft are pushing Luton hard looking to find another goal numbers forwards Thomas in a central position wins the ball, prods it forwards into Cossey inside the box on the six yard line she can't dig the ball out from under her feet to get the shot away sends it square to Waters on her right, she is pushed wide of the goal, puts the ball back out of the box looking for someone to run onto the ball. It's Scully who is in the right place to strike the ball drills it home from 20 yards a low shot through a crowd Staples sees it too late her dive in vain 2-1. The goal sends the home crowd wild.

  Jiminez getting onto the ball is working hard to make something happen for Luton she is forced out to the right manages to get the ball back across the 18 yard line, Richardson hurts herself taking a swing at the ball Lowestoft bodies are back to block. In the closing minutes Kosky is pushed up from the back to try and win the ball. Luton can't find a way through the final whistle blows and it's the ERWFL Premier Division side that progress into Mondays 3rd round draw for the FA Women's Cup where the FAWSL 2 sides enter the competition. Well done Lowestoft Town Ladies

   A deserved win for the home side who despite going a goal down in the 1st half came back strongly in the 2nd to score twice as the crowd of over 230 got behind their team and roared them on. Luton will be disappointed, was a frustrating afternoon the refereeing decisions didn't go their way but ultimately they didn't create enough going forwards in the 2nd half.

   Thanks to both clubs for their help today. I do love a good cup tie.

UPDATE - Mon 12/01/15

   Earlier today the draw for the 3rd round of the FA Women's Cup was made and Lowestoft Town Ladies have received a plum away tie to FAWSL 2 side, Millwall Lionesses. The tie due to be played on the 1st Febuary.




 

WSL Transfer Buzz 2015 - part 1

   There was me thinking this transfer period couldn't possibly be as busy and hectic as it was last season.. how wrong was I on that, has been another whirlwind of activity and the transfer window only officially opened at the start of the year. Moves were done and dusted before then as current deals ran there course and players were free to move on.

   Time for a new WSL Transfer Buzz for 2015 and a Part 1 so that all the deals that have been done so far can be rounded up. Focus on WSL 1 in this installment, will save WSL 2 which has been quiet in comparison so far until a later date.

   The transfers so far -

   ARSENAL LADIES

    IN - Lianne Sanderson (Boston Breakers), Jemma Rose (Bristol Academy), Natalia Pablos Sanchon (Bristol Academy).

      OUT - Niamh Fahey (Chelsea Ladies)

  Three very useful additions to the Arsenal Ladies squad so far by manager Pedro Martinez Losa with ex-player Lianne Sanderson returning to the club after a successful few years playing in the US and her recent return to the England fold following Mark Sampson's appointment as manager. An experienced striker she is joined by another quality international striker in Spanish star Natalia Pablos Sanchon who moves from Bristol Academy where she has already proven scoring goals in WSL 1 won't be a problem.
   Whilst at the back Arsenal have added another player from Bristol Academy, Jemma Rose, recent form has seen her pushing for a place in the senior England squad, a move to Arsenal will only help to cement it if she continues to progress. A good blend of youth and experience Arsenal Ladies look to have a stronger squad than they did after last seasons raft of big name departures.

  BIRMINGHAM CITY LADIES

     IN - None

      OUT - None

   No transfer activity that I know of as yet but that's a good thing as there have been no departures at  Birmingham City Ladies a few rumours floating about but I never worry about rumours. Have a good young squad if they can keep it see no reason why thay can't be as strong as last season. A couple of shrewd additions from manager David Parker would be useful and there's plenty of time yet.

  BRISTOL ACADEMY

  IN - None

   OUT - Jemma Rose (Arsenal Ladies), Natalia Pablos Sanchon (Arsenal Ladies), Natasha Harding (Washington Spirit), Laura Del Rio.

  It's the departures that have dominated Bristol Academy since their fantastic Champion's League win against Barcelona. Big name players too which have left a big hole in the squad, will they find the names to replace them? Manager Dave Edmondson will no doubt have some transfer targets both here and abroad would be surprised if no new faces came in before the season started.

  CHELSEA LADIES

   IN - Gemma Davison (Liverpool Ladies), Millie Bright (Doncaster Rovers Belles), Niamh Fahey (Arsenal Ladies), Hedvig Lindhal (Kristianstads), Marija Banusic (Kristianstads).

    OUT - Yuki Ogimi (Wolfsburg), Emma Wilhelmsson, Christiane Endler, Rachel Williams (Notts County Ladies), Laura Bassett (Notts County Ladies).

   5 in and 5 out for Chelsea Ladies so far, manager Emma Hayes has brought in a new blend of experience and youth with Davison, Fahey and Swedish international goalkeeper Hedvig Lindhal providing the former whilst it is great to see Millie Bright given a chance at the top level of the women's game as she arrives from Doncaster Rovers Belles along with swede Marija Banusic.
   At the same time Hayes has seen experienced players leave too Yuki Ogimi in particular will be a big loss not just for Chelsea Ladies but the whole of the WSL. This squad is as strong as the one that came so close to winning the title last season.

  LIVERPOOL LADIES

  IN - Line Smorsgard (Klepp), Ingrid Ryland (Arna-Bjonar), Satara Murray (UNC).

   OUT - Gemma Davison (Chelsea Ladies), Amanada Da Costa (Washington Spirit), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City Women), Ellie Stewart (Everton Ladies), Nina Pedersen (Turbine Postsdam).

  Liverpool Ladies have made three additions to their squad which have more or less gone under the radar as they happened very early on after the season close, manager Matt Beard adding experienced Norwegian's Line Sorsgard and Ingrid Ryland aswell as Satara Murray from UNC. Could as Lucy Staniforth to the new arrivals as she missed the whole of last season after suffering her 2nd ACL in as many years will be looking to get her footballing career back on track.
   A number of big names departures have grabbed the headlines notably Amanda Da Costa and Lucy Bronze. Have been linked with a couple of names will probably do more business before the season starts.

  MANCHESTER CITY WOMEN

   IN - Lucy Bronze (Liverpool Ladies), Jennifer Beattie (Montpellier) Demi Stokes (South Florida), Sarah Wilshire (Yeovil Town Ladies).

    OUT - Danielle Young, Betsy Hassett.

  I guess everyone was waiting for them to make their move use the financial clout we've all heard about. Have always thought despite this Manchester City Women have gone about it the right way no expectation in the 1st season (at least from them) consolidate then push on have made moves to bulk up their back line have brought in England's Lucy Bronze and Demi Stokes who have become regulars under Mark Sampson, have 4 5th's of that back 5 now aswell as bringing in Scottish international Jennifer Beattie. Up front they have strengthened too by bringing in a player that in my opinion is long overdue a punt in WSL 1, Welsh international Sarah Wiltshire could well be the perfect foil for Toni Duggan up front will score goals too.
     Have seen departures to and I'd expect a few more most noteably New Zealand international Betsy Hassett who enjoyed a good season last year. Are beginning to look like title contenders now.

 NOTTS COUNTY LADIES
  
   IN - Rachel Williams (Chelsea Ladies), Laura Bassett (Chelsea Ladies), Alex Greenwood (Everton Ladies), Jess Sigsworth (Doncaster Rovers Belles).

  OUT - Katie Holtham, Danielle Brogan

  Notts County Ladies had been quiet on the transfer front up until yesterday when they announced the signing of Rachel Williams from Chelsea Ladies, then today followed that up with a trio of signings again from Chelsea Ladies and one manager Rick Passmoor's old Leeds players England international Laura Bassett, along with Alex Greenwood from Everton Ladies and Jess Sigsworth from Doncaster Rovers Belles.
   Williams is a powerhouse who is a proven goal scorer in the WSL but has fallen away from the England set up in the past couple of seasons through injury and a loss of form, Notts County's direct style of play might suit her better, help her rediscover that form. Bassett brings plenty of experience to the side with Greenwood having made it into the senior England squads needing to push Stokes at the highest level to win a regular place a good young talent. Likewise Sigsworth an England U20 international good prospect, good on the ball, works hard. Ellen White will be back to having missed the entire season through the dreaded ACL injury. Title contenders? Maybe not based on what Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have brought in but too early to tell transfer window is far from done.

  SUNDERLAND LADIES

  IN - None

   OUT - None

   Last but not least WSL 1 new comers Sunderand Ladies haven't done any transfer business player wise yet, but have brought in a new manager following Mick Mulhern who guided the club to the top level of women's football. Cartlon Fairweather takes over for the new season. Plenty of time to bring in new faces if he feels the need to strength the squad.


   I haven't included any players who have signed new deals at clubs and there are plenty of fans favourites who are staying for another season or two. It is a period of change as women's football grows money has to come into it at the top level and players do deserve the chance to play the sport they love professionally if they get the chance.

   No doubt there will be more transfer activity tomorrow but for now Part 1 is done, hopefully I'll only need to write a Part 2 but until then I'm like you keeping my eyes peeled for any news.
           

Match Report - Thorpe United Ladies v Fakenham Town Ladies

   The 1st match report of 2015, a brand new year with hopefully as much exciting and competitive women's football as 2014 offered up. No (SWF Blog 50/90) Match Challenge for myself this year will just aim to cover as many women's football matches as I can throughout the year although I'll still take a picture at whatever venue I pop up at and put on my twitter feed @GilharrenD so look out for (SWF Blog 2015).

   The New Year hasn't gotten off to the best of starts weather wise and finding a game to cover this weekend was a challenge in itself with the heavy rain throughout the country on Saturday and then freezing conditions this morning causing havoc with the fixture lists. Not that I'm a stranger to this especially this time of year and always have a plan B, C & D (and the rest) should plan A get called off. Either way I'll always find a fixture somewhere and today saw a quick return to the Thorpe Recreation Ground to watch Thorpe United Ladies take on Fakenham Town Ladies in the Norfolk Women's Division One.

    Have seen these two play already this season on the opening day of the league in the reverse fixture at Clipbush Park back in September. Back then Fakenham Town Ladies took a 2 goal lead before Thorpe United Ladies came back in the 2nd half to win 3-2. That report was also the one with the most views on the blog in 2014. Was a thrilling game and great advert for women's football in Norfolk, I expected no less between the 2 today.

   A cold a frosty morning the sun took awhile to get going but by the time I arrived at Thorpe, using my new Sat Nav (although I knew the way) this one didn't get upset because I wouldn't drive through the middle of Norwich when I had a perfectly good bypass to use instead the weather had improved. The pitch looked in good nick was on the lower part of the recreation ground as a pose the the higher pitch Thorpe United Ladies used when they played Bungay Town Ladies here three weeks before.

    Thorpe United Ladies starting XI - Kirstie Andrews, Cara Anderson, Natasha Evans, Alice Ford, Lauren Kett, Bethan Sommerfield (C), Lisa Marie Riches, Laura Hedtke, Charlotte Groves, Kimberly Broom & Judith Bloomfield.
     subs - Kirstie Kindred, Nicole Read & Alice Ladbrooke.

   Fakenham Town Ladies starting XI - Ellie Preece, Jemma Riches, Roxanne Bailey, Vicki Riddiford, Nina Batchelor, Natalie Wright (C), Lauren Matthews, Amie Hutchinson, Betty Coe, Sophie Lubbock & Sian Sands.
      sub Vickie Lubbock

                                                      roll on, roll off substitutes

  Nice as the sun was hanging low in the sky and knowing the problems I had at the Thorpe/Bungay match a sauntered round to the opposite side of the pitch to have it at my back with Thorpe kicking off the match in their kit of pink shirts and socks with black shorts against Fakenham lined up (and I got pulled up for this last time) in amber (not yellow) shirts with a black right sleeve, black shorts with amber socks with black and white bands.

   A misplaced pass at the back from the home side, gives Fakenham striker Sian Sands a chance to run in behind, Thorpe goalkeeper Kirstie Andrews is alert however and quickly runs out to kick the ball away from the edge of the box before Sands can capitalise.

Fakenham Town Ladies Sian Sands

   Thorpe look to move the ball out quickly from the back a pass into Alice Ford in the centre of midfield she plays it out wide left to Judith Bloomfield making the run in front of her looking to get into space in the left channel is Kimberly Broom receiving the ball she drives forwards Fakenham defender Jemma Riches stays with her puts in a good tackle to deny her an opportunity to strike on goal.

    Broom and strike partner Charlotte Groves are both looking to run into the channels looking for the ball and space to receive it. Groves links up well with Ford making a forward run into the centre, Ford lays the ball out to her left for Bloomfield, she tries to slide the ball between two Fakenham defenders looking for Broom running in behind the ball is intercepted and Fakenham launch a counter.

   The move breaks down as the cross is won back by the Thorpe defence the ball out drops to Fakenham midfielder Nina Batchelor who has a strike from distance a long way out it hasn't the lift or power to beat Andrews as she is well placed to claim the ball. An open start to the match with both teams looking to place the ball seeking a pass to penetrate either defence.

  GOAL! For all that it is an over the top ball that sees the first goal scored. Fakenham are on the attack the ball rolls loose for Thorpe central defender Lauren Kett to kick clear, putting her foot through it she launches it forwards, Fakenham have pushed up the ball drops to Broom hanging onto the shoulder of the last defender, chasing it down, she sees Fakenham goalkeeper Ellie Preece rushing out of her area to close her down lobs the ball over her, Preece tries to backtrack recover the ground throwing herself at the ball just can't get enough of her glove on it to stop the ball going over the line 1-0.

Thorpe United Ladies Kimberly Broom

   Fakenham push forwards looking for an immediate response to conceding have a great chance as from a throw up on the left Lauren Matthews gets the ball into the feet of striker Sophie Lubbock inside the box, she looks to hit the ball on the spin, send it across Andrews the Thorpe keeper makes a fantastic save diving to push the ball wide for a corner.

    From the corner Thorpe break, it's Broom again finding herself clear of the Fakenham back line central this time, Preece has to come out on the edge of her area stays big as Broom shoots makes a great save with her legs, the ball falls to Groves whose is racing up in support from 30 yards she tries to slot the ball into the back of the net but by then Fakenham have defenders back to intercept the ball.

Fakenham Town Ladies Lauren Matthews

   The middle of the park is being hotly contested between Thorpe's Alice Ford and Laura Hedtke and Fakenham's Nina Batchelor and captain Natalie Wright with all 4 winning the ball back and looking to push forwards. Hedtke with a good pass out to Bloomfield in space on the left she plays the ball into Groves ahead of her who returns the pass into her path Bloomfield shoots pulls her shot wide. At the other end Batchelor winning the ball in the centre sends it forwards into the run of Lubbock she pulls the trigger from 30 yards out the ball is rising Andrews in goal is behind it all the way.

   Thorpe make full use of their substitutes bringing all three, Kirstie Kindred, Nicole Read and Alice Ladbrooke on in quick succession.

   GOAL! Thorpe double their lead and it's Broom who scores again, a perfectly weighted ball is played along the ground looking for Broom once again shoulder to shoulder with the last defender forces an error and getting on the ball makes the charge for goal. Is one on one with Preece again this time on the edge of the area she takes the ball around her, is pushed wide of goal as a Fakenham defender races back, still she gets her shot away from a tight angle and puts the ball into the net 2-0.

    GOAL! It isn't long before Thorpe have a 3rd goal late in the half they break after Fakenham lose possession after a sustained spell of keep ball around their area, moving the ball rapidly down the right of the pitch, both teams are racing back towards the Fakenham goal in numbers the cross is put in towards the near post it's an own goal unfortunately as the Fakenham try to hook the ball clear end up putting it into the back of their own net 3-0.

   GOAL! Late in the half but the goals aren't done. Fakenham attack, Sian Sands on the ball strikes a shot low from the edge of the box Andrews throws a leg out blocks the ball puts it out for a corner. The set piece coming in from the right is headed clear but only as far as Matthews outside the area she puts it out to the right for Betty Coe who has been crying out for the ball all half, she takes on her marker gets past her into the box from the right corner flashes a chest high cross along the six yard line where Nina Batchelor is running in at the far post to send it home 3-1.

                             Half-time Thorpe United Ladies 3-1 Fakenham Town Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half with good play from both sides, Thorpe though have capitalised on individual Fakenham errors to take a 3 goal lead. Pulling 1 goal back on the stroke of half time was a much needed boost for Fakenham and set the game up nicely for the 2nd half as the visitors got us under way.

   It is a fairly even start to the 2nd period the sun has dropped lower in the sky the temperature dropping. Fakenham captain Natalie Wright makes a good ball winning tackle outside the Thorpe box, sees Matthews looking to make the run to her left get behind the Thorpe defence, the pass almost squeezes through, but Lauren Kett sticks a toe out to prod it away from her.

    Thorpe's Kirstie Kindred with a good take down on the edge of Fakenham's box she lays it off to her right into the run of Broom coming inside she looks to shoot early aiming for the near post, Preece though has come across has the angle covered. Down the left for Thorpe, Alice Ladbrooke is getting more time and space on the ball 2nd half puts 2 crosses in both too close to Preece the keeper claiming both.

   Thorpe are seeing more of the ball now win a corner off Wright is she tracks back to stop a run from midfield, the 1st effort is headed behind for another corner, this one is longer clears the crowded penalty area dropping to Broom lingering behind surprised she can't dig the ball out of her feet for a shot, it eventually comes to Ladbrooke behind her who blasts the ball over.

   Getting on the ball Wright drives forwards holding off her marker covering alot of grass with the ball at her feet before laying it off to Matthews making a run across her pushing into the box Matthews tries to get a shot away it is blocked at close range, Thorpe clear.

     At some point substitute Vickie Lubbock has come on for Fakenham but I didn't notice when as I was having my ear bent from a spectator who for some bizarre reason thought I was the Taverham manager which lead to alot of confusion on his behalf as the only thing I've done in Taverham is visit the garden centre.. but I digress..

   GOAL! I mention Vickie Lubbock because she is vital to this next passage of play. The ball is played forwards by Fakenham is held up well outside the area by Sian Sands with players rushing forwards to support her she lays it off into the path of Vickie Lubbock she strikes it sweetly from 30 plus yards out sends it arrowing towards the goal, Andrews throws herself to her left can't stop the goal 3-2.

   Fakenham have their tails up the game has is seeing a few more challenges flying in the game is getting a little stretched with tiring legs and both teams looking to find another goal. Ladbrooke out wide on the left has the legs to out pace her marker gets a cross in early looking to find Kirstie Kindred making a run at the far post too long she can't get to it.

   Fakenham goalkeeper Preece makes a vital save as Thorpe break down the right with Kindred on the ball surging down the line she plays the ball into Broom she skips past a player bursting into the box hits the ball hard at an acute angle. Preece throws herself down gets a glove to the ball to send it wide across her goal out for a corner.

  Wright again with another strong run playing the ball out from the back covers alot of ground is again lookingfor Matthews who comes inside this time sees the run from Vickie Lubbock gets the ball to her, she tries another pop from long range a high shot the ball is blocked as spaces open up at both ends.

Fakenham Town Ladies Natalie Wright

  Thorpe on the counter it's Groves on the ball she takes the ball wide holds off a challenge cuts back inside drives into the box prods the ball across the goal looking for the runners far post finds neither as Preece makes the save.

  GOAL! Late in the game Thorpe win a free kick in a position out on the left close to the penalty box. It's Alice Ladbrooke over the ball as Thorpe players fill the area. She sends the ball in at a good height with plenty of pace towards the far post. Players are closing it down Preece can't come for it as it sails past her and nestles into the side netting inside the goal don't think anyone got a touch on it to make it 4-2.

Thorpe United Ladies Alice Ladbrooke

    Thorpe finish the game on the attack with Kindred putting the ball out wide left for Groves to run onto, she puts the cross it it's Wright who has come all the way back to intercept stopping Broom from latching onto it behind her.

    The final whistle blows and Thorpe win the match 4-2 and claim the 3 points that sees them firmly back in the hunt to defend their Division One title. Another spirited perfromance from both sides in front of a good number of spectators. Both sides meet again in a fortnights time in the Ladies Cup.

   Thanks to both teams management for helping me out with the squad details.