Cup Final Report - Brantham Athletic Ladies v Long Melford Ladies

   Thursday evening trip down into Suffolk to watch my 2nd Women's League Cup Final of the week. The venue Hadleigh FC to watch Brantham Athletic Ladies v Long Melford Ladies.

   Tonight's League Cup is the 2nd meeting between the 2 clubs in a week with both involved in a final day title decider in the Suffolk Women's Division last Sunday, just 2 points separated the pair going into the last match of the season against one another. Long Melford Ladies were at the top of the table having spent much of the season catching up to Brantham Athletic Ladies who had been at the top for much of the campaign. Long Melford Ladies ran out 7-1 winners on the day to win the league.

   The Finalists

   Having missed out on the league Brantham Athletic Ladies had a 2nd bite at winning some silverware this season in the League Cup Final. The Suffolk Women's Division contained 10 clubs at the start of the season, by the end 3 clubs would be lost to the league. Brantham Athletic Ladies received a bye in the 1st round, then were awarded an away win with Bury Town Ladies after they pulled their reserves team out of the league. So it wasn't until the semi finals themselves before they faced an opponent, won 2-1 against Bacton United Ladies to earn their spot in tonight's final.

  Long Melford Ladies having clinched the league at the weekend had a chance to win the double, like Brantham Athletic Ladies the club received a bye in the 1st round. Were drawn away to Copleston Ladies in the quarter finals with the match ending 1-1 after extra time a penalty shoot out was required Long Melford Ladies won through winning 2-3. This set up a semi final meeting at home to East Bergholt United Ladies, a 2-0 victory put them into the final.

   The venue Hadleigh FC a small stadium tucked away in the picturesque countryside of Suffolk. A good clubhouse and facilities beside the playing surface which looked in good condition a little dry, good size a good number of supporters had turned out to watch on a bright and mild Thursday evening as the 2 teams came out onto the pitch.

  Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI - Heather Andrews, Miriam Howe, Monique Peters, Charlotte Partridge, Katy Skinner, Jo Hazelton, Lucy Elmes, Lucy Dunnett (C), Emmi Bennett, Kirsten Hutchings & Emily Boore.
  subs - Nadine Williams, Keri Burley, Ezmee Yallope, Coral Williamson & Timisha Grant.

  Long Melford Ladies starting XI - Ellie Aldous, Jodie Sharp, Deben Howlett (C), Rachel Linsdell, Jess Clark, Megan Partridge, Sheral Williamson, Jessie Casey, Kerry Humphries, Beth Hurst & Penny Everett.
  subs - Amy Harrington, Jo Marshall, Dolly Orr, Hannah Whiting & Francesca Cole.

                                      (roll on roll off substitutions)

   It's Brantham to get the final under way kicking off the 1st half wearing and all blue strip with white trim on the shoulders of their shirts against Long Melford lined up in black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. Brantham start positively, Long Melford look a little nervous as the team in blue take the ball into their half an early cross in from the right is headed away from inside the box by Long Melford captain Deben Howlett.

   Brantham retain possession keeping Long Melford penned inside their own half without really getting the ball in beyond them, 5 minutes are on the clock before Long Melford finally bring the ball out over the halfway line. In their 1st attack midfielder Penny Everett making the forwards run is slid in centrally by Rachel Linsdell, Everett opts to shoot early with the Brantham centre backs closing the door the block is made the ball spinning away for a corner. The set piece comes all the way through from the left to Everett standing just inside the box at the far post, can't wrap her foot over the ball to keep the shot down as it flies over the bar.

  GOAL! Long Melford open the scoring comes from an unforced error at the back from Brantham, goalkeeper Heather Andrews presents the ball to Long Melford striker Megan Partridge 30 yards out. She has the ball takes it into the box, central sending her shot past Andrews and into the back of the net 0-1.

Long Melford's Megan Partridge on the ball opened the scoring

   Brantham deal with couple of Long Melford corners before taking the ball up the right wing and winning a corner themselves is played long to the far post a Long Melford defender headers the ball high into the air is dropping awkwardly towards goal Long Melford goalkeeper Ellie Aldous needs to keep her eye on the ball is able to collect with Brantham closing her down.

   Long Melford's Beth Hurst is presented with the ball from a defensive header 25 yards from goal right side of the goal, sends a shot back in but finds Andrews well placed to make the save. Long Melford win the ball back from the Brantham defence the pass putting Megan Partridge away on the left of the area she enters the box looks to shoot near post, Andrews is across to drop low to make the save.

   A good turn of pace from Long Melford's Jodie Sharp out wide left takes her beyond the Brantham defence puts her cross in looking for Megan Partridge running in on goal, the ball is past her before she can turn it into the net, retrieves it out wide right on the by line her ball back in is claimed by Andrews.

Brantham Athletic Ladies captain Lucy Dunnett

  Brantham are looking to counter attack, their captain Lucy Dunnett has a good range of passes on her is taking the set plays, bringing the ball up over the halfway line sends a pass out the Long Melford defence into the right of the area for Kirsten Hutchings to chase down, watching the ball come down over her shoulder she looks to hit the ball on the half volley, screws her shot wide of goal.

 

Kirsten Hutchings

GOAL! Is a fantastic pass from Dunnett from inside the Long Melford half that dissects their centre backs with Hutchings making the run to steal in beyond into the area to get herself in on goal, sends her shot across the goal beating Aldous to level the scores 1-1.

  Sharp is alert latching onto a wayward Brantham clearance out on the left looks to come inside getting into a central position, is given the time and space to line up a shot, takes it on pulls it wide of goal 35 yards out. Megan Partridge is slid through on goal but Brantham defender Monique Peters is very quick and across to put in the tackle before the shot is released. Partridge then has her head in her hands after sending a shot wide of goal from 3 yards out as she steals in unmarked from a throw sent in from the right.

  



     GOAL! Long Melford restore their lead is again from an error at the back by Brantham

Penny Everett

this time it is Everett who latches onto the ball, taking it into the area left of the goal she gives Andrews little chance to set herself shooting early firing the ball across her and into the goal 1-2.

   Long Melford make a double change with Hurst and Sheral Williamson coming off with Francesca Cole and Amy Harrington coming on. It's Sharp on the left for Long Melford taking the ball into the corner sends her cross in looking for Partridge, Peters is across again to make the interception. 3rd change for Long Melford with Williamson making a prompt return to the pitch for Partridge.

   A good strong run from Hutchings in attack for Brantham to look to take the ball beyond the Long Melford defence her touch is too heavy as she takes the ball wide of the goal on the right manages to win a corner as she tries to play the ball back across the goal. The set piece coming in is met by the head of Charlotte Partridge making the run from the edge of the area to meet the ball, is an instinctive save from Aldous throwing up a glove turns the ball up onto the crossbar comes back out to Partridge she tries to redirect her header back in places the ball onto the roof of the net.

                      Half-time Brantham Athletic Ladies 1-2 Long Melford Ladies.

   An entertaining 1st half in front of a good numbered crowd of around 200 on a Thursday evening, both sides looking to be positive and travel with the ball Long Melford have capitalised upon a couple of Brantham errors at the back to score their 2 goals the score at 1-2 though all to play for 2nd half.

  Brantham are out on the pitch early the coaching staff putting them through a warm up to get them firing for the start of the 2nd half. Sharp is off the pitch for Long Melford at the start of the 2nd half with Hurst back on the pitch. Everett plays the diagonal ball out into space for Francesca Cole on the right of the area running after it takes on the shot is a tight angle can't get it past Andrews who claims the ball.

   Long Melford are slow to get the ball out from the back, Hutchings always alert for a chance steals the ball and surges beyond into the area left of goal, she doesn't want to shoot with her left foot trying to dig it out with her right plants the shot wide.

   Good attacking play from Brantham the ball played up to Emily Boore by Lucy Elmes, the attacker with a deft header drops the ball nicely into Hutchings beyond the Long Melford defence edge of the area Aldous comes to close her down, Hutchings tries to slide the ball around her the keeper gets a glove to the ball knocking it away from both of them.

  Sharp and Megan Partridge return to the pitch Williamson and Cole giving way. Has been a quieter start to the 2nd half Dunnett is playing deeper for Brantham 2nd half her passes less effective.

   GOAL! Brantham have been putting the Long Melford box under pressure for a couple minutes and they level the scores for the 2nd time a great diagonal ball sent in from wide on the left rolls through the gap between goalkeeper and defence coming all the way trough to Emmi Bennett running in at the far post, she smashes the ball back in across the goal to make it 2-2.

   On top at the minute Hutchings spins off the shoulder of the last Long Melford defender as the ball is played in from the right, into the box shoe looks to shoot across the keeper, fires her shot straight at Aldous the keeper makes the save but spilling the ball, has to scramble up and retrieve the ball before it can creep over the line.

    Brantham are pushed up higher in the 2nd period giving Long Melford the chance to run beyond if they want to send the ball over the top in Sharp they have a player full of pace who can travel quickly with the ball at her feet. In a central position is looking to get into the box slips but with the Brantham back line trying to keep up with her the ball winds up in space Sharp is up and tries to curl the shot in, won't turn back in goes behind the goal.

   Playing out on the right of the attack now Bennett has been getting the ball into some good crossing positions for Brantham, Long Melford bring on Williamson rested for Jess Clark to mark her. Central Jo Hazelton travels forwards with the ball taking it into the congested D tries to shift it for the shot, it's Kerry Humphries who puts in the tackle to win the ball back for Long Melford. Brantham make a change new legs in attack with Timisha Grant coming on for Emily Boore as wide right Bennett wins a corner the ball is headed on at the near post, Hutchings tries to bring it down for the shot six yards out is charged down.

    Play has got a little scrappy as the final enters the last 15 minutes, both teams are looking for another goal play is congested into the Long Melford half as Brantham defend a high line when they have the ball, Sharp always ready to run when the ball is sent up the pitch. Amy Harrington leaves the pitch with Clark coming back on. Sharp is sent through bearing down on the area Peters shows good recovery skills covering the ground quickly to win the ball catching Sharp unawares before the shot is released. Brantham bring on Ezmee Yallope for Hazelton.

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of normal time Brantham have been attacking the ball is won with their defence high the ball is put beyond for Sharp to run down as she peels off the shoulder of the last defender taking the ball out wide right has plenty of time and space to tee up the cross has Megan Partridge running up with her getting into the area, picks her out Partridge coolly turning the ball into the back of the net from 12 yards out 2-3.

  Into injury time Brantham throw everyone forwards send Boore back on everyone bar the goalkeeper is in the Long Melford half.

  GOAL! Long Melford win the ball and launch it up the pitch wide left Brantham let it bounce and this gives Sharp a chance to pounce is after the ball racing clear of everyone she takes it all the way into the box right of Andrews goal the keeper closes the angle, Sharp though powers the ball over her and into the back of the net throws her arms up into the air knowing the win is almost there 2-4.

   Just enough time for Long Melford to bring on Hannah Whiting for a cameo appearance before the referee blows the final whistle and Long Melford celebrate a league an cup double, something manager John Harrington tells me he could only dream about having started the club up just 4 years ago.

    A decent sized crowd for a Thursday evening League Cup Final were entertained by a good match contested between to eager sides, hard luck for Brantham to concede 2 late goals and miss out on both the league and the cup this season.

   The presentation from the Suffolk FA a double one with Long Melford assured the league before the final kicked off come to collect the shield, then Deben Howlett comes back to collect the cup and cue the celebrations.

  Congratulations to Long Melford Ladies winning the league and cup double.

  

 

  

  

  

Match Report - Birmingham City Ladies v Bristol Academy

  Have had little opportunity to get to see much FAWSL 1 action live at the start of the season so a trip over to Solihull was in order to watch Birmingham City Ladies as they welcomed Bristol Academy Women to the Autotech Stadium.

   Is a battle between the 2 clubs currently bottom of the FAWSL 1 league table. Birmingham City Ladies have just 2 points on the board following 2 0-0 draws at home to Manchester City Women and Notts County Ladies sandwiched in between was a 2-1 defeat away to Liverpool Ladies, whilst this Sunday a single goal won the match at the Autotech Stadium for early pace setters Chelsea Ladies.

   Has been a lack of goals early on with just Aoife Mannion having her name in the league goals column to date haven't scored a league goal at home. Have been missing a few key players in attack however, captain Karen Carney was suspended for the start of the season, the club then lost new signing Freda Ayisi for 3 matches sent off for violent conduct in the opening day draw with Manchester City Women, had fellow striker Kirsty Linnett coming off injured in that match too. All three are back now Ayisi starting last weekend with both Carney and Linnett coming off the bench.

   Bristol Academy come to the Autotech Stadium badly in need of 3 points themselves. Are bottom of the league have lost their opening 4 FAWSL matches. Well known they lost a host of players over the close season and player exodus' often have an impact on team morale. Have lost defenders Jemma Rose and Corinne Yorston at the back, but the loss has been felt more in attack where they have lost a lot of goals with Natalia Pablos Sanchon, Laura Del Rio and Natasha Harding all departing. Now their poor start to the season has also lead to the departure of manager Dave Edmondson last Thursday.

  Know from speaking to a few Bristol fans they didn't think is tactics and style suited the team and there was some unrest in the dressing room. Whatever the reason losing players not only impacts morale it causes a period of transition, new faces have come in. Bristol chairman Simon Arnold though has wasted no time in bringing in a new manager. Willie Kirk has come in had originally applied for the post following Mark Sampson's departure to coach England. At the time didn't have the necessary coaching badges to meet FAWSL requirements has since gotten them has managed Hibernian Ladies before taking up a role developing women's football with the Scottish FA. Will take charge at the end of the month with Edmondson's former assistant Lauren Smith managing the team for her 2nd match following Bristol's 5-2 loss at home to Notts County Ladies at the weekend.

    The pitch at the Autotech Stadium looks in very good condition the weather pretty gloomy and overcast dark clouds all around a possibility of some rain during the match getting cooler.

  Birmingham City Ladies starting XI - Rebecca Spencer, Meaghan Sargeant, Jess Carter, Kerys Harrop, Aoife Mannion, Jo Potter, Jade Moore (C), Remi Allen, Alex Windell, Melissa Lawley & Freda Ayisi.
  subs - Sophie Baggaley, Karen Carney, Kirsty Linnett, Abbeyleigh Stringer, Coral Haines, Christina Torkildsen & Emily Westwood.

  Bristol Academy starting XI - Mary Earps, Loren Dykes, Jasmine Matthews, Grace McCatty (C), Georgia Evans, Frankie Brown, Angharad James, Sophie Ingle, Hayley Ladd, Nikki Watts & Christie Murray.
  subs - Alice Evans, Gabriella Simmons-Bird, Alexandra Hurst, Isobel Dalton, Sharla Passariello & Nadia Lawrence.

   It's Birmingham lined up all in blue to kick off the match against Bristol lined up opposite in red. The home side are making in roads into the Bristol half straight away Melissa Lawley running into space wide left as she receives the ball taking it to the by line looks to turn and fire a cross into the box, puts the ball straight into the gloves of Bristol goalkeeper Mary Earps.

Birmingham City Ladies Melissa Lawley

  Bristol press the ball hard in the Birmingham half with Angharad James winning it, passes it short into Christie Murray to her left outside the box on the right Murray looks to hit the ball high into the area, skies the ball Rebecca Spencer in the Birmingham goal has plenty of time to see it safely into her gloves.

   A bright start from Bristol the pace of the game is rapid no surprise there, captain Grace McCatty winning the ball back brings it forwards from centre back rolls it into Sophie Ingle in the centre she drives on into the Birmingham half has Loren Dykes out on the left making a run plays the ball out to her she tries to go around Meaghan Sargeant playing at right back for Birmingham in the absence of the injured Chelsea Weston, can't get the ball past her but wins her team a corner. The ball is fired in low there are cries for hand ball from the Bristol players, the cries are ignored by the referee and Birmingham clear.

   Up top for Birmingham, Freda Ayisi is looking to make herself available for the pass out from the middle of the park prepared to go out into space on the right her get on the ball and drive at the Bristol centre backs, isolates herself against McCatty on a couple of occasions but can't shake her off to get a shot away.

   Murray and Nikki Watts are the strike pairing for Bristol are coming short to get the ball then look to spin off their markers and hold the ball up to bring others into play are enjoying some possession in front of the Birmingham box, the home side a little nervous early on rushing clearances hitting bodies and keeping themselves under pressure. It is notable that Bristol are leaving space out on the flanks for Birmingham to exploit particularly on left with Jess Carter able to come forwards as play is attracted across the pitch.

   Jo Potter sees Carter in space a sprays a great pass out to her from the centre the ball put into the box is headed behind for a corner by Bristol's Jasmine Matthews. The set piece is delivery long into the six yard box, Earps makes the call and claims the ball. Ayisi with a chance at goal as the ball is put out to her peeling out into the right of the area, strong on the ball she charges into the area sends the shot away, beats Earps the shot though flies across the face of goal and out.

   Ayisi again powers her way down the right with the ball puts a great cross into the box has Lawley coming into the penalty spot jumps looking to head the ball past Earps, can only get the merest of touches not enough to trouble Earps. In the centre Moore with good footwork to evade a challenge from Hayley Ladd, has Ayisi in front of her looks for the past to send her through on goal McCatty intercepts.

   Birmingham are starting to get on top another attack this time Lawley with the ball at her feet pushes inside into the Bristol area fires her ball across goal, Potter is making up the ground at the but can't get on the ball, is retrieved out on the left the cross fired into the near post, Earps isn't fazed by having Moore closing in on her stays focused and punches the ball away as the Birmingham player clatters into her. Birmingham have more opportunities to cross the ball into the box but more often than not it is an easy claim for Earps.

   Few chances at the other end Murray has a great chance to score as she makes a run to the near post with Dykes bringing the ball deep into the Birmingham on the left squared the low cross into Murray with Spencer coming to defend her goal Murray tries to turn the ball past her but Spencer blocks makes the save the ball goes behind for a corner.

   Moore gets the ball out to Alex Windell on the right, she crosses early a deep ball sent into the near post, Lawley is making the run jumps in front of Earps to try and head it beyond her makes no contact, Earps isn't distracted by the jump keeps her eyes on the ball makes the save.

                 Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-0 Bristol Academy

   Has been a fast paced 1st half, committed from both sides as you'd expect, play has been a little scrappy and rushed with little goal mouth action, build up play has been good the final deliveries not trouble either defence, Earps has been the busier of the goalkeepers but has commanded her box well.

   Has gotten decidedly chilly since the sun has disappeared and the teams come out for the 2nd half, Bristol to kick off. Birmingham start on the offensive with Ayisi coming deep to win the ball, has Windell on the right ready to sprint into space, sees her lays the cross out to her, Windell hits the cross on the turn into the area, the outcome the same Earps calls and catches.

    Early into the 2nd half and Birmingham make the 1st substitution with Karen Carney coming on to the pitch with Windell giving way. McCatty welcomes her back with a strong challenge on halfway. It's Potter to play the ball long into the area, Bristol get a header to it 1st the ball loops up high, keeping her eye on it Mannion gets her head on the ball trying to turn it towards goal is sent high again, Earps is under it to catch on her line.

   Bristol attacks are limited in the 2nd half Carter handles the ball wide of the area on the right giving Watts a chance to play a ball into the area, hit low with plenty of pace it is send across the goal face and out of play.

   Earps is called into action again to make a save this time as Carney her back to goal central spins off her marker ad bringing the ball on looks to play Lawley in on the ball to her left, Lawley has Earps closing her down gets her shot away, Earps is down to make the save. A few refereeing decisions are going against Birmingham a few Bristol challenges let go, the referee allowing play to continue the pace is fast. 2nd change for Birmingham as Remi Allen is replaced by Kirsty Linnett.

   Adds to Birmingham's attacking options as they continue to surge forwards attack the Bristol box. Ayisi strong on the ball again rolls it out let for Lawley to run onto, she hits the ball on the run sends her shot narrowly over the bar. Linnett nicks the ball off Matthews as the defender dallies on the ball, Linnett taking the ball into the area, has Earps coming to close her down, Matthews coming in to recover the ball Linnett's shot hits Matthews goes into Earps as she collides with Linnett.

  Lawley slides the ball through to carney inside the box she is a wide of the six yard box on the right as she gets hold of the ball, Earps has come across to challenge for the ball drops low as Carney shoots gets something on the ball as it is deflected behind. The set piece comes through to Ayisi at the far post attempts an over head kick with Earps closing her down the ball hits Earps loops back out to Sargeant she fires her shot wide from 15 yards out.

   Change for Bristol as Sharla Passariello comes in up top with Hayley Ladd coming off. The cross is put in from the left by Birmingham fizzed into Ayisi at the near post she can't quite dig it out from under her feet under the close attention of Earps who slips does enough though to give her defenders a chance to close in and win the ball.

   Shots are coming in from all angles by Birmingham most from outside the box and Bristol with numbers back determinedly put the blocks in as the game enters the closing minutes. Winning a late corner Birmingham make their 3rd change bringing on Emily Westwood to add an extra attacker with Carter coming off. The ball comes flying in deep to the far post between the defender and Earps who clatters into her post Bristol hold out.

    Injury time one last chance for Birmingham to score and claim the 3 points Lawley on the left wraps her foot around the ball sends it in low and fast, Earps diving misses it with Carney racing in behind, she gets a touch but the ball screws away from the open goal leaving Carney sitting in disbelief on the floor, the final whistle blows and Bristol win their 1st point of the season 0-0.

   Birmingham have had the Bristol defence penned in for virtually all of the 2nd half with Carney and Linnett coming off the bench creating chances, Ayisi too strong and agile, but for the 4th successive home game they fail to score, solid defensively you feel it's only a matter of time before that changes.

   The point will help Bristol's confidence no end, had to work hard for it especially 2nd half, but were determined as a collective to keep their goal intact. Earps showed great form in goal but I understand she has been like that since the season began.

   Both remain in the bottom 2 with 5 played and have one more chance to register a win before the FAWSL1 stops for 2 months with the World Cup in Canada on the horizon. Both playing on Saturday 9th May, Birmingham are away to Sunderland Ladies with Bristol at home welcoming Arsenal Ladies to the Stoke Gifford Stadium. 

 

  

Cup Final Report - Cambridge WFC Reserves v Huntingdon Town Ladies

   Back to Ely City Fc tonight to watch another women's football final contested in Cambridgeshire, this time the Women's League Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance. Tonight's finalists Huntingdon Town Ladies and Cambridge WFC Reserves.

   The Finalists

     Another chance for Women's Premiership side Cambridge WFC Reserves to win silverware at the end of the season having played at Ely City FC just a fortnight ago beating Milton Ladies 4-0 to win the Women's S-Tech Junior Invitation Cup Final. Entered the League Cup competition in the 1st round drawn against Women's Championship North side Wisbech St Mary's Ladies winning 11-4 on aggregate over 2 legs. Were drawn against fellow Premiership side Cambridge University Women on the 2nd round the 1st leg ending 4-4 before Cambridge WFC Reserves were awarded an away win to set up a quarter final tie with Downham Town Ladies. Needed extra time to over come the Championship North side eventually winning 4-3. Faced a tough opponent in the semi finals a home match against the Premiership leaders and now champions Riverside Rovers Ladies won 2-1 to reach their 2nd cup final. Are the current League Cup holders.
  
    Huntingdon Town Ladies compete in the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership. Were given a bye in the 1st round of the competition. In the 2nd round competed over 2 legs they were drawn against Deeping Diamonds Ladies from the Cambridgeshire Women's Championship North, the ties were postponed before Huntingdon Town Ladies were eventually awarded the tie and put through to the quarter finals. The last 8 was a straight knock out game with Huntingdon Town Ladies drawn at home to fellow Premiership side Fulbourn Bluebirds won the match 4-2 to set up another home match in the semi finals against another Championship North side Bourne Ladies a 3-0 win booked their place in the final.

   Both clubs are in mid table in the Premiership and little clue was given to who might come out on top when the two sides met in the league last week the game ending 0-0.

   Another final at Ely City FC on a pleasant spring evening as April draws to a close

   Cambridge WFC Reserves starting XI - Tafazwa Mhundru, Kayleigh Whitehead, Emma Roberts (C), Nicola Geoghan, Robin Phillips, Ellie Cullum, Gemma Clark, Jade Powell, Liz Pamplin, Clara Greed & Lisa Grimes.
   subs - Becca Fay, Maria Davies, Rio Will, Sindy Infante & Sarah Carroll.

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

                              (roll on roll off substitutes).

  Cambridge in their sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts kick off the final, with Huntingdon lined up in red and black striped shirts and socks with black shorts. Is a quiet opening to the match with both sides taking the ball into the others final 3rd but not getting a final back in for their strikers to get an early sight on goal.

   Playing on the right for Cambridge it's Gemma Clarke who looks to send the ball into space on the right of the Huntingdon area with Lisa Grimes up front making the run for her, looking to turn into the box though it's Huntingdon central defender Valerie Smith who is across quickly to take the ball away from Grimes before she can latch onto it inside the area.

Cambridge's WFC Reserves, Jade Powell on the ball

   Likewise at the other end it's a Cambridge central defender who comes across to tackle Huntingdon's Danielle Bennett on the right as Sophie Markeineke rolls the ball out into her path. Markeineke then looks to go beyond her strikers as she lays the ball out to captain Claire Knox on the left she sends the ball into Markeineke as she looks to steal through the Cambridge defence, has been tracked back by Cambridge's Jade Powell the midfielder putting in the tackle to win the ball.

   GOAL! Cambridge are attacking the Huntingdon box have bodies surrounding the D pressurising the ball, block a Huntingdon clearance the ball spinning into space in front of the goal, it's Liz Pamplin, who I've seen play in every position for Cambridge, who is onto the ball from outside the area, shooting she sends the ball arching over Huntingdon goalkeeper Megan Stow and into the back of the net 1-0.

Scorer of the opening goal Liz Pamplin for Cambridge WFC Reserves

  The early goal has livened the game up, Cambridge are attacking again the ball retrieved on the left and fired into the area into Clark right of goal she shoots the effort blocked spins away for a throw. Kayleigh Whitehead is over the ball for a free kick 35 yards out central after Grimes is fouled, she looks to send the ball in long for runners to attack, too long Stow can see it run wide.

   Fed the ball out on the left high up the pitch Clara Greed looks to slide it on into the box has Grimes making the run just a little too much weight gives Stow the chance to gather. Pamplin and Grimes link up well in attack outside the Huntingdon box playing a 1, 2 gets Grimes past the defence, sends in her shot finds Stow well positioned in the middle of her goal to make the save.

   Huntingdon have struggled since the goal to get anything going up top, most of their forward play is through Knox wide left, more often than not though she looks to come inside and Cambridge have players covering any midfield runners looking to support. Early chance for Cambridge as Whitehead is given a rest and Maria Davies comes on going in at right back.
 
    From 35 yards out Ellie Cullum has the ball in space looks to drive the ball towards goal, the shot blocked by Huntingdon's Rachael Bowd. More good defending from Bowd then as Cullum plays a ball over the top for Pamplin to chase into the area, shoulder to shoulder with the Cambridge attacker, Bowd gets the tackle in to take the ball away from her.

   Huntingdon make a triple chance with subs, Lydia Bedford, Jo Bull and Goergie Goodwin coming on. Cambridge are attacking again Pamplin releasing Greed on the left, the winger takes the ball on into the box can't get the cross in though as Smith is across and defends well to win a goal kick off Greed. Cambridge bring Grimes off and send on Sarah Carroll.

   Late in the half Huntingdon are starting to get themselves back on the ball take it into the Cambridge half. Knox a strong player with the ball at her feet has it on the left looking to drive across the middle of the park plays the pass into Stef Day to the right side of the D, she sends it onto to Goodwin on her right wide of goal who shoots sends her effort wide of goal.

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

  Didn't expect there to be too much between these two sides, Cambridge though have been on top since they took the lead just after 10 minutes were on the clock. Have had more attacking chances 1st half, Huntingdon have defended well although Cambridge have rarely taken the ball beyond their full backs. Whilst up the other end Cambridge have limited Huntingdon's attacks Cullum and Powell breaking play up in the middle with centre backs Phillips and Nicola Geoghan intercepting most forward passes, still only the one goal in it the final is far from decided yet as Huntingdon get the 2nd half under way.

  Huntingdon start on the offensive with Goodwin taking the ball into the right channel, checks back and squares her cross into the edge of the area where it is met by Jo Bull who turns her shot goal wards, Cambridge block the shot. More good work from Day to bring the ball down inside the box from a corner on the right lay it off for Bull outside the box, no shot on rolls it out for Goodwin to the right gets the cross back in again Cambridge block.

   Launching a counter attack Cambridge have the ball down the other end quickly with Clara Greed racing into space on the left, turns inside and looks to fire the ball into Pamplin on the edge of the area, she looks to open up her body to turn the shot goal wards slices it wide of goal, however it has taken a touch off a Huntingdon body as a corner is given. The corner is fired into the crowded near post header but it's a Huntingdon head that gets it away. Greed looks to come inside runs into trouble takes a knock and after needing treatment is replaced by Becca Fay on the left of midfield.

   GOAL! 15 minutes into the 2nd half Huntingdon equalise. Good possession down the right again brings a corner, the ball is played long coming through to Knox towards the far post area she gets her shot away smashing it against a Cambridge defender marking the post the ball comes back into the crowd, it's a red and black boot that gets to the ball 1st as Bowd sends the ball up over Cambridge goalkeeper Tafadzwa Mhundru to clip the underside of the cross bar and bounce down over the line 1-1.

  The scores back level the game really opens up, Cambridge play the long ball from half way up to Pamplin she heads the ball on into the area from Clark to attack, she can't get her shot away, Huntingdon half clear sending the ball out to Sarah Carroll 25 yards out, left of the D she fires a low shot back in pulling it wide of Stow's goal.

Cambridge's Gemma Clark with Huntingdon captain Claire Knox

   From a throw in deep in the Cambridge half on the right Huntingdon fire a cross into Bull just inside the are she heads it down for Goodwin to the right of goal, retrieving the ball the angle is acute as she looks to shoot, has a defender to beat gets the ball past her but Mhundru has her near post covered as the ball strikes the side netting. Goodwin is put through inside the box on the right again, this time Mhundru comes out to close her down makes the save, taking a knock in the process play is held up whilst she receives treatment.
Sindy Infante comes on for Cambridge.

   Both in search of another goal the pace of the game has quickened the final passes are rushed however and both sides are not keeping the ball for long. Natasha Dowdell is fouled by Fay inside the Cambridge half, she plays the ball out to Goodwin on the right, taking the ball forwards she has Day with her giving her the ball, Day squares the ball across the front of the area is met by Lydia Melling who turns the ball 90 degrees sending it towards goal but the wrong side of the post.

   Nicola Geoghan now in midfield gets the ball out to Sindy Infante on the left, good pace to take the ball pass her defender she gets the cross into the box comes to Grimes who has returned to the pitch, she is closely marked plays the ball into Clark next to her, same again can't get the shot away on the edge of the six yard box before Huntingdon win it back.

    The whistle blows for full time and the scores are 1-1 as we head into a half an hours extra time. Was looking increasingly likely in the 2nd half that the next goal would win it didn't come though, would either team get a winning goal in extra period or would I see another cup final go to penalties this season?

   Extra Time

    Huntingdon kick off the 1st half of extra time. Good defending from Phillips as Huntingdon break on the right again Goodwin on the ball has Bennett keeping pace with her on the left Phillips though prevents her getting the ball to her.

   GOAL! Huntingdon win a corner on the left it's Natasha Dowdell to take the delivery an in swinger into the near post area is a good one coming in at a dangerous height, Mhundru comes to punch clear with three Huntingdon players attacking the post, misses the ball and it flies into the goal straight from the corner Dowdell scores 1-2.

   An awful goal for Cambridge to concede, Cullum has gone up top for them now, she attempts to steal into the box with the ball has 2 Huntingdon defenders converge on her before she came get her strike away.

          Half time, extra time Cambridge WFC Reserves 1-2 Huntingdon Town Ladies

  Greed is back on the pitch for Cambridge as they kick of the 2nd period of extra time looking to bring the scores level again. Get the ball into Infante outside the area on the left trying to come inside she is fouled, 20 yards out it's Fay over the ball, gets her shot around the wall, plays it straight into Stow's gloves.

   Geoghan slides the pass through for Greed to run after Day makes the run across the ball to slow Greed down as Stow comes rushing out of the area to get to it, Greed skips past Day as she and Stow collide leaving Greed hurt and needing treatment. Whitehead back on is over the ball, sends the shot in on goal looking for runners to attack, bounces through to Stow before they can reach it.

   Into the closing moments Cambridge are piling forwards looking for a leveller, Huntingdon are defending well. Geoghan is left sprawled on the ground from a challenge 30 yards out it's Powell on the ball central she puts her foot through the shot sending it in towards goal is over Stow past her smashes against the cross bar, as close a Cambridge get as Huntingdon hold out the referee bringing extra time to a close and Huntingdon are the Cambridgeshire S-Tech Women's League Cup Final winners.

   Was always looking like it would be a closely fought final between the pair, after taking the early lead though Cambridge were in control for much of the 1st half, without the cushion of a 2nd goal however Huntingdon were always in the game pulled the scores level before needing extra time to seal the winner and lift the cup. Two disappointing goals to concede from a Cambridge point of view the club having to settle for 2 pieces of silverware this season instead of 3.

  Congratulations to Huntingdon Town Ladies on their League Cup success.

Match Report - Billericay Town Ladies v Barking Ladies

  A trip down to Essex this Sunday to watch a match in the Eastern Region Women's Football League (ERWFL) as Billericay Town Ladies took on Barking Ladies in the Premier Division.

   It's always a good thing to try and let clubs know that you are coming prior to a match and twitter has made that interaction even better. If I hadn't I'd have ended up going to the New Lodge home of Billericay Town FC and Billericay Town Ladies and found there was no one there, and that wouldn't be the 1st time I've turned up at a ground to watch a women's football match and found no one there!

   The venue change was passed on to me however and I headed instead for Ramsden Heath's Nursery Sports Fields, a sporting complex run by South Hanningfield Parish Council. Haven't travelled into Essex as much as I'd have liked to this season to watch women's football so this Sunday I took the opportunity to watch 2 teams I haven't seen play yet.

   Billericay Town Ladies were one of the favourites to win the ERWFL Premier Division this year. Have finished runners-up in recent seasons. All the teams in the division though have been unable to stop the Lowestoft Town Ladies juggernaut as the Suffolk side undefeated with a100% win record to date clinched the title with 6 games left to play. Billericay Town Ladies currently lay in 3rd place with 2 games left to play are 3pts behind 2nd placed Colchester Town Ladies, however their fellow Essex side have completed all of their fixtures a win today coupled with a Stevenage Ladies loss, who were playing Gt Shelford Ladies today, would seal Billericay 2nd place again.

   Their opponents today Barking Ladies were the early season pace setters, but having started well have steadily fallen away from the top are safe in the middle of the table in 7th place, have lost a number of players to rival teams over recent times and are looking to recruit new faces over the close season to help maintain their status as a Premier Division side. Today was their final match of the season.

  The Nursery Sports Fields a tidy sporting facility with the playing field surrounded by woodland, the pitch surrounded by a metal railing looking in pretty good condition. Was a mild but overcast day, dark clouds above but the rain never arrived.

    Billericay Town Ladies starting XI - Hollie Dimambro, Charlotte Hopwood, Sarah Bovington, Nicole Farmer, Katie Whitehead, Marie Barker (C), Helen Alder, Paris Smith, Stephanie Poleykett, Lucy Wyatt & Hayley Piggott.
   subs - Layla Prior, Vanessa Wilson, Stacey Smith, Lisa Robins & Frances Murphy.

   Barking Ladies starting XI - Olubusola Shoneye, Lucy Allen, Anna Wyatt, Elizabeth Allen, Ashleigh Bhatt, Claire Brooks (C), Leanne Russell, Abbey Dell, Sammah Shariff, Lucy Jamieson & Carly Vigors
   subs - Liane Prior.
                                        (roll on roll off substitutes)

   It's the visitors to kick off the match, Barking are kitted out in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts, with Billericay lined up against them in an all blue strip. Billericay win the ball off Barking early on to go on the attack with their captain Marie Barker getting on the ball in the centre of midfield and looking to thread the pass through to her strikers beyond, Barking's defenders intercept as they back track.

   Billericay are pushing Barking back early on piling players forwards keeping them penned in their own half the visitors are finding it hard to get the ball out to their attackers. Possession down the right of the pitch brings Billericay a corner, played into the near post area it is headed on drops into space, everyone has been attracted to the near post however and it's a Barking defender that reaches the ball 1st.

   Sarah Bovington brings the ball over the half way line for Billericay is allowed to travel with it, reaching the edge of the Barking area goes to shot, left of the goal she pulls her effort wide of the mark.

  GOAL! 10 minutes gone and Billericay's early pressure tells have a corner on the left fired into the middle of the area the ball is cleared comes back to Billericay's Hayley Piggott standing 30 yards out from goal in a central position, she flicks the ball up and sends her shot arrowing in towards goal, on the rise Barking goalkeeper Olubusola Shoneye throws an arm up but too late the ball is past her flying in under the bar to give Billericay the lead 1-0.

Billericay Town Ladies Hayley Piggott opened the scoring

   Winning a challenge in the Barking half it's Barker who comes forwards with the ball has team mates Paris Smith and Lucy Wyatt making runs for her both to the left of the Barking goal sends the ball into Wyatt, she controls then shots, in front of her Barking's Anna Wyatt makes the block.

   When Barking do manage to get the ball forwards they are looking to play it into space for attacker Abbey Dell to run into, getting it out to the right Dell is right of the goal looking to take the ball into the box, Billericay goalkeeper Hollie Dimambro comes rushing over to dive for the ball at her feet makes the save preventing Dell a shooting opportunity however she takes a knock in the process.

    Billericay have the ball up the other end of the pitch quickly send Smith through on goal takes the shot on early outside the area again pokes it wide. Not long after she has another chance to shoot with Lucy Wyatt on the left hustling the Barking defence stealing the all and getting the cross into the box, Smith stabs the ball over.

   Barking haven't had many set pieces, awarded a free kick on the right, Anna Wyatt plays the ball long into the area, in front of the penalty spot it's Carly Vigors who rises above everyone, can't quite make the necessary contact with her head to turn the ball goal wards.

  Billericay are having the majority of the attacks bringing the ball forwards the final pass is being hit a little too early into space rather than looking for a run giving Barking the chance to retrieve it. Have another corner on the right, coming into the near post Shoneye is up to punch the ball, slices it past her towards the far post area where Lucy Wyatt gets onto it 1st and fires the ball back in, strikes the cross bar, before being knocked out of play for a goal kick.

   GOAL! It's Smith who doubles Billericay's lead, is running in on goal arriving on the six yard line as the ball is crossed in from the left, coming into Smith her 1st touch is heavy ended up knocking it against Shoneye, but as it spins off the keeper Smith is quickly onto it and hitting the shot on the spin has a 2nd bite of the cherry to send it home 2-0.

   Shoneye does well to save as the ball is fired in from the left again swooping in low she can see Smith racing in on her, knocks the ball up and away from the attacker, before racing after the ball and claiming it before anyone else can latch onto it inside her box.

   Stephanie Poleykett is hurt as she is send crashing into the metal railings running along the side of the pitch a back injury Billericay manager Kim Coster brings her off so the injury can be assessed Lisa Robins is the player that comes on.

   Late attack from Barking the attackers struggling for time on the ball 1st half Dell closes down Bovington outside the area nicking the ball off her and darts into the area, takes on the early shot sends the ball spinning wide of the goal.

                            Half-time Billericay Town Ladies 2-0 Barking Ladies

   Billericay deserve their 2-0 have been the dominant team in the 1st half had more of the ball and created chances, have also been wasteful with the final ball too could have added more goals with a little more composure. Barking have been on the back foot for much of the half have defended well putting bodies in the way of shots, just need to get it into their front players more if they want to get back into the match.

   It's Billericay to kick off the 2nd half have made a triple change at half time with Dimambro coming off suffering from her 1st half injury in goal, Layla Prior comes on in goal. Out field Frances Murphy and Vanessa Wilson come on with Lucy Wyatt and Helen Alder rested.

  The home side winning the ball back from a Barking clearance the ball is played out to Smith on the right, she fires it back into Barker 25 yards out from goal, central she looks to hit it on the spin, turns the ball wide of goal.

Barking Ladies Ashleigh Bhatt

  Barking have been getting some joy down the left of the pitch with Vigors making herself available for the ball, from left back Ashleigh Bhatt is confident on the ball and prepared to bring it out, looking to give it to Vigors and push on beyond her, on the over lap Bhatt gets back on the ball deep on the left looking to turn inside tries to play the ball in across the face of goal, slices the ball behind instead.


   Vigors looks for Dell as she knocks a header forwards from the left of the pitch the ball is won by a Billericay head, but Dell is after it as it drops outside the box hits the ball in at goal, Prior throws her gloves up knocking it over the bar for a corner. Played in from the right the ball drops to Barking's Lucy Jamieson gets the shot in from 12 yards out, Billericay block and launch a counter attack.

    Playing in a more advanced position in the 2nd half Bovington on the ball has Barking's Vigors and Bhatt closing her down gets out of the way just in time as the Barking pair clatter into one another, leaving Vigors on the ground, Bovington's run forwards is halted by the referee so that Vigors can receive treatment.

  Barker wins another tackle in the middle and looks to send Bovington away as she makes a run to the right of the area sends in a shot pulls it across the face of goal and out for a goal kick.

   Smith comes off for Billericay with Lucy Wyatt returning to the pitch. She gives chase to a ball played into the right hand corner of the pitch, getting it turns inside and fires the ball into Barker on the edge of the area she shoots, Anna Wyatt is behind it to block again. Barker comes off to be replaced by Alder.

  Vigors brings the ball out from over the half way line plays it up for Dell to chase she hustles the Billericay defence well forces an error the ball coming loose for Vigors she hits the shot from distance 1st time, Wilson heads it clear.

   Poleykett has recovered from her 1st half knock returns to the pitch with Katie Whitehead coming off. Soon after she is joined by Stacey Smith. Poleykett is fouled 35 yards from goal on the left by Elizabeth Allen, the referee has tried to play advantage as often as possible during the game but brings play back now, it's Poleykett over the ball looks to send it in on goal an easy save for Shoneye.

   Stacey Smith looks to peel off her defender and take the ball into the area, can't shake off Anna Wyatt that easily the centre back keeping with her pushes her to the right before making the tackle putting the ball out for a throw.

   Lucy Wyatt for Billericay then looks to get onto the end of a long cross played over from the left by Billericay retrieving the ball on the by line spins it back into Bovington who plays it back to Piggott tries another strike from distance, this time Shoneye can see it run past her out of play.

    GOAL! Late into the 2nd half Billericay add a 3rd goal possession is won down the left as Poleykett is given the ball, shoulder to shoulder with a defender she runs into the area, puts her foot through the ball, Shoneye falling back throws out a leg as it heads for the near post, doesn't get it as the shot goes in 3-0.

Barking's Sammah Shariff & Billericay's Stephanie Poleykett

   Into injury time and Billericay are on the attack winning a throw wide right the ball is played into Piggott again, hits the shot into the box again bounces wide as the final whistle blows and Billericay secure the 3 points with a 3-0 win to move into 2nd place in the Premier Division table.

   A scrappy game but Billericay were the dominant side scored the necessary goals to win the game, created plenty more chances too with better finishing could have doubled the score line. Barking though defended doggedly at times whilst never getting the ball to stick up top enough to give them more of a chance to get back into the game.

   Billericay secure 2nd spot in the league with one game left to play as the only team that could catch them Stevenage Ladies lost 2-1 at home to Gt Shelford Ladies today. In the other match leaders and champions Lowestoft Town Ladies won 4-0 away to Leverstock Green Ladies.

   Billericay Town Ladies have one more league match left a home game against Lowestoft Town Ladies on Sun 3rd May.

   My thanks to both teams for their welcome today and help with the team details.

  



  

  


  

Match Report - Stalham Town Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

  It was always going to be a busy week watching women's football I had 3 matches planned for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday when Bungay Town Ladies got in touch with me on Thursday to let me know of a rearranged fixture between themselves and Stalham Town Ladies in Norfolk Women's Division One this Friday, I'm easily tempted and it wasn't too far away so I was in and out of the house again and back on the road for the 4th night in a row.

   Heading up the north east Norfolk coast the venue Cromer Town FC's Crabbe Park ground where Stalham Town Ladies had arranged for the night game to be played. The end of the season is rapidly closing in and as is often the case midweek fixtures have to be squeezed in and arranged a relatively short notice to allow teams to get their games in.

   Stalham Town Ladies were newly promoted to Norfolk Women's Division One this season making the step up from the 2nd tier. Have struggled to pick up points in the league are 2nd bottom in the league with 9 points with 2 wins, 3 draws and 7 losses to date with 13 matches played. Have though enjoyed good cup runs in both the League Cup and Women's County Cup reaching the quarter finals and semi finals respectively.

  Bungay Town Ladies are comfortable in mid table and looking to push up a place with 2 fixtures left to play currently in 5th place with 6 victories, 3 draws and 5 losses on 21 points

  Crabbe Park in Cromer is a nice venue on the Norfolk coast, the pitch looked in fantastic condition lush and green a good size the weather was quite warm clear and dry.

   Stalham Town Ladies starting XI - Paris Hay, Ruth Gainsford, Sarah Howard, Marie Meale, Kiera Brown, Kerry Wright (C), Zara Ellis, Charlotte Fiske, Sarah Williamson, Tash Robson & Rhiannon Dack.
   subs - Amii Bird

   Bungay Town Ladies starting XI - Hannah Wheeler, Emily Fusco, Sian Carter, Leah Shepherd, Kerry Collins (C), Rebecca Calver, Kate Pasque, Inna Marx, Emily leach, Gemma Moore & Lauren Purling.
   subs - Charlotte Power & Jordan Harris.

                                    (roll on roll off substitutes)

   Used up a notepad already this week covering 3 games so a detour to the shops to get restocked before arriving at the ground I was all set as Bungay kitted out in light blue shirts, black shorts and socks kicked off the 1st half with Stalham lined up opposite in their red shirts with white shoulder trim, red shorts and red a white hooped socks.

  Bungay are on the attack straight away with the ball being fired out to Lauren Purling on the right, running in behind the full back and looking to drive forwards into the box with the ball Stalham's Marie Meale comes across to make the tackle to deny her an early shot on goal.

   Gemma Moore then looks to take the shot on for Bungay as the ball is played up from the back bouncing before her on the right outside the area, cuts her shot wide of the goal. Moore then turns provider as she slips the ball through the Stalham defence for Purling making the run in front of her into the box she can't chase it down before Stalham goalkeeper Paris Hay is off her line to come and take the ball.

   Stalham win a free kick wide on the right inside the Bungay half the ball is floated into the box, allowing it to bounce Bungay struggle to clear the ball as both Stalham's Charlotte Fiske and Tash Robson try to get hold of the rushed clearances to try and turn the ball towards goal. When Bungay do clear it's Kate Pasque that brings the ball out travelling  down the right she fires a cross in towards goal, Hay is down to make the save on the six yard line with runners closing in.

   GOAL! Bungay have a corner on the left, the 1st delivery coming in is put behind by Stalham for a 2nd corner, this is the one that causes the damage played into the congested red post it is a Stalham boot that makes contact with the ball looking to block, is an unfortunate own goal instead as the ball is turned into the back of the net 0-1. 15 minutes played.

  In midfield for Stalham, Kiera Brown plays a great pass through to Fiske as she breaks free of the Bungay defence has Moore tracking back on her shoulder holds her off as she gets her shot away on the edge of the box, doesn't get the power needed to send the ball past Hannah Wheeler in the Bungay goal she gathers the ball.

    Fiske is put through once again moments later to the left of the goal, takes one touch too many that pulls her wider making the angle tighter to get the shot in manages to fire the ball in towards goal can only pick out Wheeler.

  GOAL! Bungay double their lead, the scorer Moore as she is played through beyond the Stalham defence by Purling. Taking the ball in her stride hits it on the run from outside box giving Hay little chance to set herself as the ball flies past her and into the net 0-2.

   Stalham are prepared to play a high line in defence and are getting some joy up front between Fiske and Robson, Bungay though look dangerous in the break have pace and movement from Moore, Purling and Rebecca Calver ready to make the run beyond to chase the ball down.



Gemma Moore

   GOAL! Moore nets her 2nd goal of the match making the run into space on the right again as Pasque wins the ball inside her own half a looks to send Moore away again looking to strike the ball early as she approaches the corner of the box hits a low shot in towards goal looks to he heading for the far post but spinning swerves leaving Hay flat footed as it turns sharply to roll in on the other side 0-3.

   GOAL! Moore is in again completing a 1st half hat trick, Stalham's defence pushed up near the half way line any ball over the top is going to leave them exposed. The ball send over the top Moore is after it travelling quickly heading for the right corner of the box again, shoots no swerve this time the ball arrows straight into goal 0-4.

   GOAL! Isn't too many more minutes played before Bungay rampant in attack add a 5th goal to the score sheet, winning another corner on the right the ball is fired into the congested six yard area in front of goal at a good height, it's Pasque who turns the ball into the back of the net, off her face and in 0-5.


   Stalham have been battered by Bungay but are still trying to bring the ball forwards create a chance once again the ball is put over to free up Fiske for a run on goal, Wheeler comes racing out to the edge of the area stays big as she confronts Fiske, the striker tries to play the ball around her, Wheeler gets her glove on the ball to knock it away from Fiske as Bungay clear. Don't get it far before it is won back by Meale plays it forwards Robson is the player breaking clear of the Bungay defence this time fires her shot in from the right  Wheeler is behind it to make the save.

   GOAL! Moore gets her 4th goal of the match capitalising on hesitancy at the back in the Stalham defence, steals the ball on the right 25 yards from goal, brings it into the box, this time looks to take on Hay as she comes to close her down takes the ball around her and slides it home into the empty net 0-6.

   GOAL! Bungay add a 7th goal before half time this goal scored from another corner played in from the right is another great delivery travelling at speed through to the far post where it is met by the unmarked Purling, who drills her header home 0-7. 

  Stalham have conceded 7 goals look in danger of conceding every time Bungay attack but to their credit are still looking to go forwards are getting in beyond the Bungay defence, Robson to the right of goal has a pop from long range that Wheeler saves.

  GOAL! Stalham score! Is probably the best of the goals scored so far this evening too, the attack beginning down the right pulls players across with Fiske and Brown hustling the ball the cross field pass is put out to the left hand side to Rhiannon Dack she dinks the ball over a Bungay defender as she slides in to challenge the ball, runs into the box and sends her shot up and over the keeper to score 1-7.

                 Half time Stalham Town Ladies 1-7 Bungay Town Ladies

  Speaking to the Stalham management team they tell me they were struggling for players have a number of players absent particularly in defence. Take nothing away from Bungay though who were clinical in the 1st half having the players with the pace to run in beyond the Stalham back line and convert their chances the set pieces were good to racing into a commanding 1st half lead.

   Bungay have a new goalkeeper for the 2nd half with Pasque donning the shirt and gloves as Stalham kick off the 2nd half. Early attack for Stalham the ball played over the top for Fiske she looks to send her shot in from the edge of the box up and over Pasque, doesn't quite get enough pace on the shot, Pasque is able to pluck the ball out of the air.

    Bungay attack, Hay is able to see a Moore shot from the right again roll wide of her post. Bungay's Emily Leach then prods a shot over the crossbar from 20 yards out.

   Fiske is put though in a central position the ball is bouncing keeps her eye on it inside the D has three Bungay defenders for company does well to get her foot on the ball and send a shot in places it over the bar. Stalham have started better in the 2nd half although this is partly down to Pasque bring in goal now and not in midfield breaking up play.

   A free kick for Stalham as Brown is fouled on the halfway line the ball is sent into the area, Pasque comes amongst the crowd to punch the ball away setting up a counter attack for Bungay coming down the right and into Moore she is closing down on the area again, Hay is down quickly making the save as she slides in front of Moore's strike.

   Hay is called into action again to make another save this time of Calver in a central position as Leach slides the ball through to her. Leach then has a shot herself from 25 yards out left of the goal, shifts the ball between her feet well to open up the space to curl one in, good save from Hay to push the ball wide the is quick to retrieve it.

   A free kick is awarded to Bungay left of the area, it's Moore on the ball, hits the strike past the 3 players in the Stalham wall, hay is across to make the diving save. Is a more even 2nd half. Bungay have a corner on the right comes in low and somehow finds its way through to Leach at the far post she tries to stab the ball home Hay is down quickly to get herself behind the ball.

   It's a 3rd goalkeeping change for Bungay with Pasque handing the shirt and gloves to Leah Shepherd halfway through the half. Holding the ball up for Stalham high up the pitch she rolls it out to Dack, she has Sarah Howard behind her looking to give support on the left given the ball she fires a shot in low towards goal Shepherd has the post covered and can gather the ball.

   Bungay's Moore is finding it more difficult to beat Hay in the Stalham goal 2nd half the keeper coming to meet her as she is put through on the right once more stays big as Moore looks to play her shot around her Hay gets a hand to the ball and claims the ball.

   Brown shows good footwork on the ball taking on players down the right gets into a crossing position sends a fantastic cross into the box in the gap between keeper and defence, is unfortunate no one is able to run in on the ball.

   GOAL! Late into the half Stalham had done well not to concede any further goals as Bungay press forwards the build up is down the right the shot fired in is blocked by Hay as she comes across to cover the angle, the ball drops loose behind her however and it is Moore in space behind to smash the ball into the net 1-8.

   Moore almost scores her 2nd hat trick of the match as she is put through on goal again has Hay coming out to meet her again this time takes on the shot early placing the ball wide of the keeper, but also wide of the goal.

  GOAL! Closing moments of the match and their is a coming together in the Stalham box as Calver looks to take the ball past captain Kerry Wright, they collide the referee points to the spot. It's Calver to take smashes the ball from 12 yards to the right of Hay and into the back of the net 1-9.

    The final whistle blows and it's a comfortable win for Bungay scoring 9 on the night against Stalham to move up one place into 4th in the table with one game left to play at home against Long Stratton Ladies this Sunday at home. Was a comfortable performance tonight had the pace and movement to get beyond the Stalham defence and cause problems leading 7-1 at half time they could afford to let their foot off the gas 2nd half.

   Stalham were left with a mountain to climb after the 1st half but were much better 2nd half were unfortunate to concede 2 late goals in the 2nd half, stay 9th. They are back at Crabbe Park next Thursday their opponents Thorpe United Ladies.

  My thanks to Graham Purling the Bungay Town Ladies manager for letting me know about this fixture and both clubs for helping me out with the team details tonight.