Match Report - Brentwood Town Ladies v Haringey Borough Women

  Action form the Eastern Region Women's Football League this Sunday a trip down the Len Forge Centre in Essex to watch the Premier Division fixture between Brentwood Town Ladies and Haringey Borough Women.

  A milestone for the Supporting Women's Football blog to as Brentwood Town Ladies and Haringey Borough Women are the 99th and 100th women's football sides to feature in a match report on the blog for the 1st time.

  Also the 1st look at a football match in the ERWFL this season. Still early days in the Premier Division with only a handful of games played. The early leaders are Billericay Town Ladies having had an unbeaten start to the season on 10 points after 4 matches played. Brentwood Town Ladies are in 4th place in the table 1 of 3 teams on 6 points after starting the season with a win and a loss, were awarded the 3 points last weekend after their opponents failed to field a team. Have the opportunity to move into 2nd spot in the table with a victory today. Is Brentwood Town Ladies 2nd season back in the ERWFL following relegation from the FAWPL South East Division One (or Combination as it was known then) at the end of the 2013/14 season. Finished 6th last season.

   Haringey Borough Women are an established side in the ERWFL Premier Division have been playing in the Premier Division for the past decade with one relegation to Division One before going straight back up. Playing their football in North London have been at the wrong end of the Premier Division in recent seasons. Have played just the 1 league match this season lost 7-1 at home to leaders Billericay Town, have inbetween enjoyed two good results in the early Qualifying Rounds of the FA Women's Cup.  

  Brentwood Town Ladies play their home matches at The Len Forge Centre, near the airport I was told (and it is very close). Nice little ground with a good sized clubhouse that offers food as well as drink. Leading out onto the newly laid 3G pitch. Looked very nice and unlike several 3G pitches I've been to, to see women's football this one had provision for spectators beside it with two small covered stands on one side. Several dark clouds around but nevertheless it was a bright sunny afternoon as the two teams walked out onto the pitch.

     Brentwood Town Ladies starting XI - Layla Prior, Emma Hooker, Amy Vernon, Nicola Allen, Nicole Manning (C), Jessica Tuffen, Charlotte Twydell, Jessica Mills Danielle Butler, Zoe Lipley-Hinton & Carla Rose.
  subs - Chelcee Grimes, Ashley Debnam Piadamayo Dedza, Katie Bowman & Ria Toovey

  Haringey Borough Women starting XI - Cherkish Young, Roisin Cormack (C), Brooke Hills, Shaydean Gorman, Zhane Amoaten, Klesha Darroux, Aleah Headley, Jaidene Browne, Morgan Lundberg, Anele Komani & Ellena Finneran. 
  subs - Shannon Carter, Karen Nicholls, Hollie Cox, Khadijat Lawal & Robyn Reardon.

                                              (roll on roll off substitutes)

  Brentwood manager Rob Budd was without a few players today particularly in defence. It's the home side to kick off the 1st half wearing light blue shirts and socks with navy shorts. With Haringey lined up opposite wearing a bright luminous yellow strip. The opening exchanges are a little cagey neither side keeping hold of the ball with a few tackles flying in early on. Both sides give away free kicks in the middle both deliver the ball to the face of the area defences win the ball both times. The referee makes a point of telling the captains to calm their teams down.

Told you the airport was close.

   Brentwood get hold of the ball in the middle Zoe Lipley-Hinton slides the ball out to the right for Charlotte Twydell driving with the ball up the wing she cuts back inside fires a fierce cross into the area Haringey clear, only to a light blue shirt the pass is back out to right back Emma Hooker coming over the halfway line plays a high diagonal ball into the box Lipley-Hinton is up there, chests the ball down to her left back to goal, tries to get the shot away Haringey put the block in.

   Haringey are a young looking side something there manager would confirm at the end with several players in their teens. Have players full of pace who want to run with the ball. The ball is rolled into the path of Anele Komani getting onto the ball she runs with the bit jinking right then left before pulling the trigger on the edge of the box fires the shot wide of goal. Komani has another chance soon after as Haringey win a free kick on half way, Brooke Hills plays it long to the edge of the area Komani knocks the ball down, is pushed out wide to the left of goal by Brentwood captain Nicole Manning the angle is tight with Brentwood goalkeeper having her near post covered, Komani gets a shot away the attempt goes over the bar.

Haringey's Jaidene Browne looking to get hold of the ball

   Taking the ball up the left side of the pitch for Brentwood Danielle Butler makes up alot of ground before rolling it to Carla Rose making the run across to support her entering the area it's the turn of the Haringey captain Roisin Cormack to push the attacker away from goal before getting a foot in to take the ball. Fast paced game both sides looking to get it into their attacking players quickly, Haringey's Aleah Headley is given the ball her back to goal 20 yards out, good control and turn to set up the strike let's fly Prior in the Brentwood goal is well placed to take it. More good play from Haringey down the right with Komani pulling wide receiving the ball driving down the flank cuts back level with the 18 yard line before sending the cross into the middle, Jaidene Browne is their to receive the ball looks to hit it 1st time can't get the shot away as both Brentwood centre backs Manning and Jessica Tuffin converge on her.


   GOAL! Haringey open the scoring and it comes from a Brentwood corner the 1st of the match swept into the six yard box from the right Haringey head clear the ball is put out to Ellena Finneran on the right side of the pitch drives forward has players racing up with her checks her run before laying it back to Komani behind her she rolls it square to Headley who takes the ball forwards is pushed to the left across the Brentwood area but keeping the ball turns back inside hits the cross along the D where it is picked up by Finneran 20 yards out takes on the shot lifts the ball over the keeper and into the back of the net 0-1.

Ellena Finneran opens the scoring for Haringey 

  Haringey have Brentwood on the back foot their attackers are alternating between coming to look for the ball and running out into the channels looking for space. Finneran with another probing run down the right crosses the ball into the path of Komani she sends it into the feet of Browne inside the box, turning she lifts her shot over the bar.

   GOAL! Haringey double their lead within 5 minutes of going in front. Win themselves a corner on the right the ball is swept in drifting into the six yard box central it's Komani who leaps to meet the ball heading it into the net to make it 0-2.

   Brentwood are finding it difficult to get the ball to stick up front allowing others to get up to join the attack, Rose comes deep to get hold of the ball looks to take the shot on some 30 yards out Haringey goalkeeper Cherkish Young has plenty of time to set herself and collect the ball. Double change for Brentwood as they win a corner, with Chelcee Grimes and Amy Debnam coming into the wide positions for Twydell and Butler. The corner is good delivered into the centre of the six yard box, it's Haringey's Hills who jumps to head it clear. The break is on with Browne on the ball racing down the right sweeps the cross in as she reaches the edge of the area, a vital claim by Prior as she comes out to snatch the ball before Komani racing up the pitch, can get onto the end of it.

Brentwood Town Ladies captain Nicole Manning

  Rose is tripped as she attempts to hold up the ball with her back to goal, 22 yards out a free kick is awarded left in front of the area Lipley-Hinton is over the ball goes for the strike hits it low and hard getting it through the crowd, Young sees it all the way calls and gathers the ball up into her gloves. 

                Half time Brentwood Town Ladies 0-2 Haringey Borough Women 

  Game took a little time to settle with a few niggling challenges flying in early on but once Haringey settled on the ball they had the better of the attacking play with their attackers pace and movement getting the better of the Brentwood back line on a few occasions took 2 of those chances to lead at the break. However 2-0 has been the score at half-time in the previous 2 matches I've covered on the blog and the 2nd half result differed in each match. 

  Change for Brentwood at the start of the 2nd half with Piadamoyo Dedza joining Rose in attack with Twydell also back on the pitch as Haringey kick off the 2nd half, are on the attack early on Finneran driving up the right, Komani with her in support Brentwood's Amy Vernon wins the tackle but at the expense of a corner. The set play delivered from the right is put in towards the congested near post, Prior comes through the bodies to confidently claim.

   The home side are having a little more joy down the wings at the start of the 2nd half with Amy Bednam making up ground on the right before delivering a ball across the six yard area the cross is in front of the attackers goes long but is retrieved by Grimes out on the left inside the six yard box turns and looks to fire it into Dedza and Rose, the ball is knocked back to the outside of the area Twydell races onto it 20 yards out hits the shot puts the ball a foot over the cross bar.

   Grimes is on the ground soon after in the middle following a tackle, Brentwood ready Ria Toovey as Grimes hops off the pitch unable to continue. Toovey comes on takes up the right sided position with Bednam going out to the left. The free kick from just inside halfway is delivered long to the far post by Rose, Young calls commandingly again and rises to catch the ball before anyone can get to it. 

   Haringey get the ball up into Browne and Komani in front of the Brentwood area the two exchange passes with Komani playing it out to Browne on her left holding it up has both Morgan Lundberg and Finneran joining the attack on the right rolls the ball into Finneran with Lundberg in front of her is played through inside the box by Finneran pushing on goes for goal plants the ball into the side netting.

Haringey's Khadijat Lawal hold's off the challenge of Nicole Manning

  Khadijat Lawal has come on for Haringey in place of Browne. Finneran is involved in the build up play driving forwards into the right channel before turning inside pushes ball into feet of Lawal who holds it up before laying it back to Finneran who flights her shot over the Brentwood cross bar. Robyn Reardon joins the play for the visitors.

  GOAL! 20 minutes into the 2nd half and Brentwood pull a goal back. Is a strong run by Rose from the halfway line towards the Haringey box is forced wide right by Hills but still manages to fashion a cross sending the ball across the penalty spot comes to the feet of Debnam left of the goal looking to come back inside shifts it to beat the defender in front of her moving into a central position in front of goal  hits the ball on the spin lifting it into the top corner 1-2.

Amy Bednam front of picture pulls a goal back for Brentwood

   Haringey attack right from the restart I'm still writing the notes for the Brentwood goal as they take the ball forwards, Finneran is in a central position has the ball at her feet edge of the Brentwood area hits the strike lifts the shot onto the cross bar, bounces back down into the six yard box before Brentwood scramble it away. The visitors then win a free kick in a dangerous position 25 yards from goal right side of the D, Zhane Amoaten is over the ball gets it up and over the wall, Prior is sharp dives low to her right to push the ball round the post for a corner kick. The delivery from the left is put in close to goal at the far post Komani chests it up into the air, Prior comes to claim it before it drops for a shooting chance.

   GOAL! Haringey restore their 2 goal cushion and it's Komani with her 2nd of the match an individual effort as the ball is put into her feet 35 yards from goal on the right looks to take on Tuffen in front of her the 2 are toe to toe as they surge into the area Tuffen is doing her best to force Komani wide, the angle is tight 2 yards from the by line Komani gets a shot away the ball flying chest height across the face of goal and in of the far post 1-3.

Anele Komani with 2 goals for Haringey today.

   Grimes has recovered from her knock and is sent back on in place of Rose with Bednam going up top as the match enters the last quarter. Grimes wins her team a corner the ball is played in from the left to the edge of the box Dedza hits it in towards goal is swinging wide but the defender coming of the post isn't sure kicks it back out into play drops to Toovey 20 yards out her shot is straight into Young's gloves.

GOAL! Out of Young's gloves and launched up the pitch Haringey break the ball is played into the feet of Klesha Darroux 25 yards from goal in a central position no one comes to close her down takes on the shot gets plenty behind it on the rise as it reaches Prior she throws herself at it can only brush her glove is past her and in to give Haringey a 1-4 lead.

   Darroux comes off then along with Komani in the closing stages with Karen Nicholls and Hollie Cox coming on. Brentwood attack Butler is back on the pitch down the right as the pass is played centrally into Bednam good turn on the ball sends Butler away gets her cross into the box Young is out of her line to claim the ball.

   Closing stages Haringay attack down the left their captain Cormack on the drive as she looks to come inside enters the area she is brought down and the referee points to the penalty spot. Is Hills to step up take the spot kick goes for power looking to hit it to Prior's left smashes the ball against the woodwork, the ball is cleared outside the box before the shot comes back in high over the bar.

   End of the match and Haringey win 1-4 their 1st 3 points of the season which lefts them up from bottom to 6th in the table. A good performance from the visitors taking a 2 goal lead after getting into their stride in the 1st half. Brentwood did pull a goal back to make it 1-2 but Haringey kept going hit back with 2 further goals to seal the win.

   My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today always appreciated.

   
    

   

   

   

    

   

Match Report - Norwich City Ladies v Lowestoft Town Ladies

  Midweek football action from the FAWPL South East Division One, with a trip along the A47 to Plantation Park to watch a local derby match between Norwich City Ladies & Lowestoft Town Ladies.

   Saw Norwich City Ladies play on the opening weekend of the FAWPL Season were at home to Cambridge United WFC put in a strong performance to win the match 3-1. Since then have been on the road with 4 successive away league matches (have had a home game scheduled against Old Actonians Ladies postponed in that sequence). Suffered 3 straight defeats before finally recording their 2nd league win of the season just this past Sunday 3-1 once again to Cambridge United WFC. Those 3 points saw Norwich City Ladies climb into the top half of the table into 6th place.

   One of Norwich City Ladies defeats on the road came at the hands of Lowestoft Town Ladies in what is now a new local derby in the FAWPL South East Division One the Suffolk side newly promoted to the league this season after an impressive campaign in the ERWFL Premier Division last season winning a league and cup double going unbeaten with a 100% win record in the league were head and shoulders above everyone else. Life in the higher tier hasn't been so easy the win at home to Norwich City Ladies their only victory to date in the league with 4 defeats recorded a positive result too at the weekend however earning a point with a 0-0 at home to Bedford Ladies.

  A local derby under the lights there were a few players out there who had played for both sides with Lowestoft Town Ladies having brought in a few experienced players from Norwich to bolster their squad during their promotion campaign. Bringing in a new head coach, James Buhlemann has also seen some of these players return to Norwich. The match at Crown Meadow also played under the lights at the start of September ended 3-2 to Lowestoft Town Ladies

  Now into autumn the day had been bright and sunny giving the pitch at Plantation Park a chance to dry out after the heavy rain that had fallen over the past few days. Cooling as the sun set, dew would form on the grass on a clear windless evening.
   
  Norwich City Ladies starting XI - Jade Nicholson, Bryony Radley, Erin Wilson Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow, Kate Parsons (C), Emily Lewin Brooke Osbourne, Anna Larkins, Paige Shorten, Ebony Wiseman & Natasha Snelling.
  subs - Jordan Arnoup, Katie Knights & Abigail Gower.

  Lowestoft Town Ladies starting XI - Chloe Pearce, Marcie Prettyman, Jessica Keeling, Chelsea Clarke, Eleanor Froud, Amber Rowland, Charlotte Eastwood (C), Natasha Thomas, Zoe Cossey, Chloe Hoffman & Hannah Waters
  subs - Amy Bell, Aimee Durrant, Abbie Everson & Charnelle Riggall.

   The camera can be hit and miss under the lights and at Plantation Park it's definitely a miss so it stayed in the bag as the two sides walked out onto the pitch, Norwich in their yellow and green kit, Lowestoft in blue shirts with white across the shoulders, white shorts and blue socks. Lowestoft to kick off the 1st half.

  The visitors look to take the attack to Norwich from the off the ball with Amber Rowland in the centre she plays the pass through to Natasha Thomas to her right she opts to hit the early shot from close to 35 yards out is on target hasn't the power to trouble Norwich goalkeeper Jade Nicholson who gathers comfortably as the ball bounces before her. 

  An early feel of the ball too for Lowestoft's goalkeeper Chloe Pearce as Norwich work the ball up the right, full back Bryony Radley on the overlap lifting the cross into the centre of the area puts the ball in too close to Pearce allowing her to gather. Norwich retain the ball inside the Lowestoft half striker Ebony Wiseman looks to push forwards into the area is pushed, is pushed wide by Lowestoft's Eleanor Froud who makes the challenge putting the ball out for a throw, Norwich bring players up to join the attack giving chase to a ball put out into space on the right Radley retrieves it sends the cross back into the centre is picked up by Natasha Snelling she looks to curl the ball in towards goal puts it straight at Pearce in the centre of goal.

   Norwich are dominating in the opening minutes pushing plenty of bodies forwards with Snelling looking to play off the shoulder of the last defender on the right of attack looking for the ball to be played through into the space beyond. Getting hold of the ball after one move cuts the cross back to the edge of the area Emily Lewin latches onto the ball sends her 1st time strike high over the goal.

   GOAL! The home side take an early lead after they win a free kick out on the left side of the pitch some 35 yards out. Anna Larkins is the player standing over the ball, hits it in towards goal with players looking to attack the near post comes all the way through them, Pearce misses as she attempts to push it away the ball flying past her and into the back of the net 1-0.

   Norwich continue to press forwards have Lowestoft pinned back, Snelling has another go from outside the area a low drive which is blocked by Jessica Keeling deflecting it behind for a corner. The home side have a counter attack on as they break up a Lowestoft foray into their half the ball fires up into Wiseman on the half way line she plays it forwards into Snelling she looks to race in beyond the Lowestoft defence has Larkins up with her ready to run into space to her right, 30 yards out Snelling instead opts to pull the trigger drills the shot wide of goal.

   Lowestoft's turn to play a free kick into the area as the referee awards a free kick 30 yards from goal in a more central position the ball is sent in towards goal on the rise Nicholson throws up a glove knocks the ball onto her cross bar it comes back down in play inside the congested six yard box, a bit of pinball ensues as blue shirts attempt to force the ball over the line pops into the feet of Lowestoft captain Charlotte Eastwood, she turns the ball goal wards but lifts it over the bar.

    GOAL! Norwich double their lead within the 1st 15 minutes have been looking to test the Lowestoft goal from distance a high ball is sent in from the left falling back Pearce manages to palm the ball down in front of her goal, Lowestoft can't get the ball clear comes into the middle before finding Radley up with play to the right of the area 35 yards out looks to take on the strike hit's it sweetly a high shot looping up and over the keeper into the back of the net 2-0.

   Zoe Cossey for Lowestoft stays strong holding onto the ball as she wins possession for Lowestoft from the left plays the pass out to Thomas on the right bringing it forwards looks to hit the cross on the diagonal with Hannah Waters the only Lowestoft target inside the Norwich area, can't pick her out as Ellen Fewkes-Woodrow gets to the ball 1st heads it clear for a throw. 

   Norwich's Snelling picks the ball up central has plenty of yellow shirts looking to get up with her lays the ball out to Radley on her right, she puts the early across along the face of the area finds Larkins left of the D can't bring the ball down to get a shot away instead passes it to Paige Shorten on her left inside the area she take a stride with the ball before hitting a low shot in towards goal, Pearce is down sharply at her near post to make the save. Snelling is put through on goal central is a race with Lowestoft's Chelsea Clarke on her shoulder into the area Clarke does well to lunge and take the ball from Snelling before she can shoot.

  Pearce has to commit early come racing out to make the clearance as Larkins breaks beyond the Lowestoft defence reaches it just before the Norwich player kicking it away into the stands, Larkins is down after the move needs treatment but walking off looks ok is able to continue. From the throw Radley takes the ball down the right jinks past a player before playing the ball into Snelling, she looks to hit the cross long to the far post with Shorten coming in, Prettyman is back and gets a firm header on the ball to clear.

  Lowestoft have been enjoying better possession of the ball as the 1st half wears on are keeping it getting it forwards into the Norwich half by haven't gotten in behind their defence as the home side drops back quickly and keeps a solid shape. For once the visitors get the ball to the by line on the right entering the area the cross is lifted back to the edge of the area, Fewkes-Woodrow gets her head to it knocks it away from the box, drops to Eastwood however she takes on the shot 20 plus yards out lifts the ball a half a yard over the bar. 

                          Half-time Norwich City Ladies 2-0 Lowestoft Town Ladies

  A good opening 45 minutes from the home side which saw them score 2 early goals to get an early grip on the game. Testing the Lowestoft goal from distance and piling players forwards whenever they win the ball. Took Lowestoft a little while to settle into the match going 2 nil down they started to get hold of the ball better towards the end, Thomas and Cossey have been doing well on the flanks but that work has more often than not been from a deeper position as they come back to help defend. 2-0 at half time would it be a Lowestoft fightback or would Norwich go on to extend their lead as they kicked off the 2nd half.

   The visitors start brightly have the ball inside the Norwich half the pass is fed into Waters just inside the area her back to goal holds it up as Cossey comes in from the left to join the attack plays the ball into her, the ball gets trapped between her feet as she looks to fashion a shot, is closed down the shot blocked. Thomas is a threat in attack for Lowestoft a strong player full of pace wants to be running at a defence. As Lowestoft counter Thomas is through running into space on the right side driving forwards with the ball races into the area, shifts the ball to deceive the defender in front of her then tries to fool Nicholson in goal by hitting the ball with the outside of her boot to turn it in at the near post rather than send the shot across goal, Nicholson isn't deceived and keeping upright claims the ball.

  The ball is played up the pitch from Norwich drops to Snelling out on the right on halfway hooks the ball over her shoulder, to release Wiseman in front of her, pacey Wiseman looks to race in towards goal from the right corner of the box she looks to send the shot across the box into the far post, Prettyman racing back to defend intercepts the ball is retrieved by Wisman inside the area still right the angle is tight by the time she shoots fires the ball into the side netting. 

  GOAL! Lowestoft pull a goal back to get themselves back into the match. The visitors winning a free kick in the Norwich half wide on the left a little further back than from where Norwich scored their opener. The ball is sent into the face of the area into a crowd of blue and yellow shirts, it's a blue that headers the ball down presenting it to Thomas outside the area she looks to drill her shot through the crowd takes a deflection which sends it through but left of the goal, up from the back Clarke is the player to it 1st hits the ball past Nicholson into the back of the net to make it 2-1 from close range.

   A contrast of halves with Norwich the side getting forced back with Lowestoft pushing forwards Thomas looking to link up with Waters who is doing well to hold the ball up bring others into player the ball is fired into her in front of the D knocks it down with Thomas in close proximity she looks to hit the ball on the volley doesn't make clean contact the scuffed shot rolls through into Nicholson. 

   Wiseman has plenty of energy and looks to be Norwich's biggest threat 2nd half out on the left she will take on players whenever she is given the ball, this time she cuts it back to the edge of the area Larkins is the player up with her has three Lowestoft defenders converge on her but still manages to head the ball wide to their left to make the room for the shot, Pearce dives to her right to make the save turn the ball behind for a corner.

   Is a fast paced derby being played with great spirit by both sides. Wiseman gets her head down on the right decides to take on the entire Lowestoft defence is pushed right of goal still manages to win a corner. Thomas is back for Lowestoft to defend the corners and more often than now she gets her head to the ball 1st to head it clear sets up an attack Rowland bringing it out before sending it long for Waters, this time Nicholson is quickly out of her area to kick clear. 

   All action the clearance comes to Wiseman peeling out to the right as Lowestoft push up Pearce makes the decision to come commits to the save edge of the area, Wiseman takes the ball around her is through on goal, Clarke though makes up the ground to get back superbly shoulder to shoulder she forces Wiseman wide of goal wins a goal kick.

   Lowestoft make a change bringing on Aimee Durrant for Rowland. Norwich bring off Brooke Osbourne send on Abigail Gower who moves out to the right side, has an early chance to attack with the ball as it is sent out to her driving down the wing cuts back inside before laying the ball back to Radley she takes on the shot drilling the ball low and wide across the area.

   Waters is through in the middle gets free of the Norwich defence makes the run into the area right of goal puts her foot through the shot, Nicholson doesn't need to make the save as her captain Kate Parsons comes back brilliantly to throw herself in to get her boot on the ball and turn it out for a corner. The corner from the right is set it deep beyond the far post Keeling gets her head to the ball but can only put it behind for a goal kick.

   The match enters the last 10 minutes with both sides looking to score. Pearce is down low to save push the ball behind for a corner as Wiseman goes on another driving run down the right hits the shot on the run forcing Pearce into the save. The corner from the right is swept into the middle threatens to creep under the bar, Pearce throws up a glove to punch it clear from danger. Pearce is called into action again needing to race out of her area a her defence struggling to clear a high ball end up knocking it on with Wiseman ever alert after it on the right Pearce wins the race get's to the ball 1st kicks clear outside her box.

Pearce with another save this time off Shorten the play down the right with Gower she only has one target in the area Shorten moving into a central position ten yards out picks her out, Shorten gets her head to the ball looks to send it wide of the keeper, Pearce throws herself out to push the ball around the post. From the corner the ball is played deep and cleared at the far post Lowestoft have a break on up the right the ball played early into Waters with a surging run she holds off a defender before hitting a shot low and hard as she enters the area, Nicholson is down quickly in goal to make the safe push the ball behind for a corner kick.

   GOAL! Lowestoft pull the scores level in the closing minutes the the goal coming from the corner kick played into the six yard box from the left comes to Thomas on the six yard line gets her head on the ball knocking it down hits the defender covering the post no time to react the ball is beyond her and into over the line 2-2.

   Norwich look to pile bodies forwards as they are awarded a free kick on halfway the ball is sent long into towards the far post area Pearce gets a fist up to knock the ball down to her right, Snelling goes after in the angle is tight as she pulls the trigger fires the ball into the side netting. Pearce keeps the scores level making a fantastic save at the death as the ball is driven in from distance throwing her arm up tips the ball onto her cross bar as both sides look for what would be the winning goal in injury time.

  Waters still has life in her legs at the end as she is played through in behind the Norwich defence running towards goal hits a fierce drive from the edge of the area places the ball wide of goal. The final action as the referee blows the whistle and Lowestoft come back from 2-0 down to salvage a point the final score 2-2.

   The result keeps Norwich in 6th, whilst Lowestoft climb a couple of places into 8th. A highly entertaining local derby match played under the lights a game of two halves certainly with Norwich having the play for much of the 1st half with some good attacking moves taking an early 2 goal lead. Signs were there at the end of the 1st half that Lowestoft could get back into the match and an early goal in the 2nd half gave them the belief still both sides had plenty of opportunities to score further goals, 3 of the 4 goals coming from set pieces.

   Thanks to both clubs for there help with the teams tonight. Lowestoft are away to Cambridge United in the FAWPL League Cup this coming Sunday. Norwich have another home match Denham United the visitors both 2pm kick off's.

   

Match Report - Moulton Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

   This summer history was made in the women's game as the FA Cup was contested at Wembley Stadium for the 1st time. 30,710 fans watched as Chelsea Ladies beat Notts County Ladies 1-0 to lift the cup. Soon after this the FA announced that this season's final will also be held at the famous stadium, with 262 clubs entering this time around all of them stepping out on the pitch knowing they are taking the first steps on the Road to Wembley.

   The final on May 16th 2016 is a long way off plenty of passion and drama to unfold before then. The competition kicked off back at the start of September with 1st Round Qualifying. I get about the country to watch women's football am always excited to go somewhere new and the FA Women's Cup gives me that opportunity as I take in my 1st match of this years competition in Northamptonshire visiting Moulton Ladies as they take on Wymondham Town Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying. 

   Both these sides won their matches in 1st Round Qualifying. Moulton Ladies are newly promoted to the East Midlands Women's Football League Division One South after winning the Northamptonshire Women's Football Division last season, scored a staggering 189 goals in 18 matches during that season. Have started life in the higher tier in similar vain winning 11-0 away to Loughborough Students (2006) last Sunday. Moulton Ladies are a new entrant to the FA Women's Cup. Progressed to the 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women's Cup with a 3-2 home win over Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership side Netherton United Ladies.

   The visitors to the Moulton Playing Fields today for this 2nd Round Qualifying tie are Norfolk Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies. Saw off opposition from Northamptonshire in 1st Round Qualifying too, were at home to Roade Ladies won the match 6-2. Are amongst the favourites to challenge for the title in Norfolk this season and like Moulton Ladies opened their league campaign last weekend with a win, 3-0 over Fakenham Town Ladies. Enjoyed last seasons competition had a decent run to 3rd Round Qualifying where they took FAWPL South East Division One side Cambridge WFC all the way to extra-time before eventually getting knocked out.

   The Moulton Playing Fields are set off the road in Moulton beyond the Brunting Road housing estate, is a very good and tidy sporting facility featuring a modern well presented clubhouse situated at one corner of the main playing pitch with further pitches beyond. The pitch was a good size in pretty good shape. The weather pretty good too, warm and sunny although there were a few dark clouds looming.

   Moulton Ladies starting XI - Rachael Rayment, Catherine Needham, Amy Varnsverry, Sara Wait, Stacey Chaplin, Amy Willis (C), Simone Cook, Nicola Hardwick, Georgia Webb, Harley Collyer & Emma Dunmore
   subs- Jessica Noble, Ashleigh Goodman, Kylie Evans & Molly Chamberlain.

   Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Gemma Hamilton-Rout, Claire Rennie, Leah Newcombe, Gemma Sanders, Amber Cantwell, Rachel Cossey (C), Kayleigh Holloway, Mary Cann, Laura Hammerton Laura Wiseman & Sally Hammerton.
   subs - Kelly Ayers & Louise Rout.

   An intriguing contest in prospect you never quite know what you'll get when two sides from opposing counties meet. The pre match formalities done it's Wymondham to kick off the 1st half wearing red shirts with black across the shoulders and sides, white shorts and red and white hooped socks with Moulton lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. 

    The visitors look to launch the ball forwards from the kick off push players into the Moulton half the home side get hold of the ball and for the opening couple on minutes the play is congested within the middle 3rd before Moulton striker Emma Dunmore springs the Wymondham offside trap and sprints with the ball towards the edge of the area, Gemma Sanders races across on the cover to put in the challenge for the ball as Dunmore is about to pull the trigger the ball spinning away from danger.

   Dunmore is presented with another opportunity to attack the Wymondham goal early on as her defence break up an attack and the ball is played out to her peeling into space on the left, bursting into the box looks to smash the ball over Wymondham's Gemma Hamilton-Rout, the goalkeeper is well positioned on her near post throws up her gloves making the save palming the ball down before safely gathering. Moments later Moulton captain Amy Willis wins the ball back in the centre of the park, plays the ball over the top with Dunmore once again the willing runner, right of goal breaking into the area it's Sanders who comes across to put in the challenge does enough to prevent Dunmore hitting the shot on the run, the no 10 manages to turn back inside get a shot away lacks the power needed to beat Hamilton-Rout as she shifts to her right to make the save.

Moulton Ladies attacker Emma Dunmore looking to turn and take on the Wymondham defence.

   Wymondham's Amber Cantwell operating down the right of the pitch latches onto a pass from Moulton's Amy Varnsverry as the left back attempts to bring the ball forwards, Cantwell is past her and looking to race towards the box, Varnsverry quickly recovers and making up the ground catches Cantwell sliding in to put the ball out for a throw before the Wymondham player can get the cross into her strikers. From the throw deep in the Moulton half Wymondham keep the pressure on the cross is fired across the face of the box with Sally Hammerton looking to connect 1st time send her shot in towards goal, Moulton goalkeeper Rachael Rayment has read the threat is quickly out diving before Hammerton to make the blocking save with her legs, the ball spins out to Wymondham's Kayleigh Holloway on the left her cross is swept in towards the near post area where it is met by Laura Hammerton who looks to turn her header across goal knocking the ball down Rayment has gotten back into position throws herself to the right to save the ball. A lively start from both sides.

   The referee plays an advantage as Dunmore slides in attempting to win the ball from Wymondham's Leah Newcombe at the back, the ball is up with Sally Hammerton on the right, she looks to play the pass through into Cantwell who has made a central run, 20 yards out her 1st time shot screws away from goal. Cantwell looks to send Hammerton through in the next attack the attempted pass is a little long, however Laura Wiseman races in from the left of the area looking to close down Rayment who has come out to clear the two collide both are down as the ball rolls loose on the right it's Hammerton who reaches it 1st takes on the shot places the ball into the side netting.

   In the middle for Moulton, Nicola Hardwick is working hard to break up play and get her team moving forwards plays the ball out to Simone Cook wide on the right, looks to swept an early cross into Harley Collyer making the run into the area, Newcombe closes her down as Collyer smashes her shot against her. Every time Dunmore gets the ball at her feet she is looking to turn and take on players, happy to go shoulder to shoulder is hard to shake off the ball, the Wymondham defence pushing the striker wide more often than not limit her opportunities to get a shot away.

Moulton Ladies Harley Collyer

  Play building up down the right with Wymondham on the attack the pass sees Sally Hammerton driving down the wing squares the ball across the front of the area manages to pick out Wiseman stretching for the ball she stabs it towards goal, it looks as if Rayment is beaten the ball going to her left into the bottom corner the keeper makes a late lunge getting down to push the ball wide for a corner kick. The corner is played in deep to the far post area from the right Wiseman makes contact but places the ball wide.

   Wymondham win a free kick in the middle the ball is sent long in towards the near post by Holloway, Sanders is making the run to get across the keeper, Rayment is distracted claiming the ball launches a Moulton counter attack the ball fired up the pitch with Dunmore peeling out wide into the space vacated by Sanders, driving into the area Hamilton-Rout comes to close the angle, Dunmore get's her shot past her is rolling across the face of goal hits the far post coming back out Newcombe is the player racing back on the line she almost turns herself inside out as she manages to hook the ball off the line.

   GOAL! Wymondham take the lead. Moulton have been conceding free kicks in the middle of the park and it from one of these the visitors score from. Holloway over the ball again is once again looking to dink the ball in towards the near post looks like this one will bounce through to Rayment, instead Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey makes a late run from the penalty area to reach the ball first stab her foot out to lift the ball over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net 0-1.

Wymondham Town Ladies captain Rachel Cossey opens the scoring.

   GOAL! In quick succession Wymondham double their lead. Rayment comes to the edge of her area to block another Sally Hammerton shot, the loose ball is cleared for a corner on the left. The set play is sent into the area is met by Laura Hammerton who rises to head the ball down out of the area into space in front of goal, Cantwell is the player who gets to it 1st 20 yards out, lifts her shot over the crowd in front of her to score. 0-2.

   Once more Dunmore gets on the ball for Moulton is allowed to run 20 yards with the ball before Wymondham come to close her down force her across the face of the area the striker still manages to get a shot away dragging the ball wide of goal.

  Cantwell tries her luck from distance a few minutes later with Holloway pushing forwards down the left plays the ball into Laura Hammerton in the middle 25 yards out she has Cantwell coming inside behind her, sets her up Cantwell shoots sending a looping effort over the cross bar.

1st time my car has featured in the blog... um sorry Moulton's Nicola Hardwick
challenges Wymondham's Kayleigh Holloway for the ball.

                          Half-time Moulton Ladies 0-2 Wymondham Town Ladies

   A lively opening 45 minutes with both sides looking to attack and creating openings both keepers called into action more than once. A fairly even start before Wymondham took the lead with 2 quick fire goals to have the advantage going into the break. A tricky score line job done so far but with another half to come Moulton will think they have been creating enough openings to get themselves back into the tie as the teams come out for the 2nd half.

   The home side kick off the 2nd half. It's Wymondham who start on the offensive winning the ball back in the middle, Laura Hammerton attempts to play the through ball to send Cantwell in on goal inside the Moulton box, she is stopped by the linesman's flag. Sanders is robust in the challenge and looks to take the ball forwards whenever she wins a tackle pushing forwards covers plenty of grass before sliding the ball through to Sally Hammerton making the run to get into the box central she takes on the shot a low effort that poses little trouble to Rayment in goal.

More midfield battles Nicola Hardwick looking to tackle Wymondham's Laura Hammerton

  Is Sanders last action of the match as Wymondham make an early change 2nd half bring on Kelly Ayers at right back. Picking up the ball centrally Wiseman gets her head down and pushes forwards has Willis on her shoulder all the way as the pair race towards the area, preventing Wiseman from shooting, Willis gives her defence the chance to clear as Sara Wait comes in to put the tackle in win the ball inside her area.

   GOAL! Both sides needed an early goal in the 2nd half, it's Wymondham who extend their lead. The attack building through the centre finds Wymondham's two wide players Holloway left and Cantwell right drifting into the middle exchange passes before Cantwell sends the high ball over the Moulton defence with Wiseman the player racing in beyond the ball dropping over her she makes the connection with her boot sending the ball up and over the keeper to make it 0-3.

Laura Wiseman pointing, scorer of Wymondham's 3rd goal.

    Moulton make their 1st change bringing off Georgia Webb and sending on Molly Chamberlain. Wymondham are getting both Wiseman and Sally Hammerton in over the top, the latter bursts through from the centre Rayment comes out to close her down sliding before her to save with her feet. Holloway is making up ground with the ball on the left squares the ball across the box is just behind Sally Hammerton, Cantwell is inside the area behind her latches onto the ball, the shot turned behind as Rayment dives low to her left to push it wide. 

   Rayment produces a fantastic save moments later with Holloway putting Hammerton through again central this time Rayment comes out to close the angle, Hammerton looks to lift the ball over her, the keeper throws an arm up to knock the ball wide to the left of her goal, Hammerton looks to retrieve it get a shot away but by then the Moulton defence has the line well protected. Wymondham make their 2nd change with Cantwell replaced by Louise Rout wide on the right. Moulton make their 2nd change too with Kylie Evans coming on to replace defender Catherine Needham with the home side switching to 3 at the back as they go looking for a goal to get themselves back into the match.

   To that end Simone Cook is pushed forwards down the right wins the ball and pushes into the channel sweeps an early cross into the area with Dunmore making up the ground can't quite connect with the fierce cross to turn it towards goal. Cook with another drive down the right into the corner sends an inviting ball in towards the near post, Wymondham's Claire Rennie rises highest to head it away across her box. Pushing forwards in search of a goal Moulton are in danger of getting caught at the back Sarah Chaplin back tracking makes a vital tackle to deny Sally Hammerton as a long pass threatens to put her through on goal.

Captain's collide as Rachel Cossey and Amy Willis go for the ball.

   Wymondham are still looking a threat whenever they attack have Holloway high up the pitch on the left with Wiseman coming near post she sends the ball into her, controlling with her back to goal Wiseman turns fizzes the ball into Sally Hammerton behind her central 8 yards out the ball is swept up and over as the striker looks to deflect the ball past Rayment. Moulton make their final change with Jessica Noble coming on in attack for Collyer. 

   Rayment has been by far the busier of the two keepers 2nd half makes another great save as Holloway sends a cross in from the left, with Sally Hammerton bearing down on her central Rayment keeps her eye on the ball, leaps and punches the ball away. Two more saves seconds apart as Louise Rout sends a dangerous diagonal ball in from the right, bounces dangerously inside the area Rayment is back tracking the ball in danger of getting by her she is falling as she pushes it away to her right, the ball is picked up by Holloway, Rayment is up quickly scrambling back to cover her near post as Holloway looks to smash the ball into the roof of the net the keeper throws up a glove turning the ball over.

   Into the closing minutes and Wymondham finish with 10 as Newcombe comes off to nurse her battered ankles. Moulton look to try and take advantage the ball is rolled into Noble her back to goal 20 yards out she sends Dunmore through on the left of the area, she is pushed wide as Hamilton-Rout comes out of her goal to come and dive on the ball. Cook driving down the right plays the cross into Dunmore in a central position she shifts the ball between her feet 20 yards out making room for the shot pulls the ball wide of goal. 

    The final whistle blows and it's Wymondham Town Ladies who win the match 0-3 and progress to the next round of the FA Women's Cup where the FAWPL Division One sides enter the competition. A comfortable win in the end for Wymondham after an even start scored 2 quick fire goals to take control of the tie and were the stronger side 2nd half creating a host of chances would have increased their lead if not for some fantastic saves from Rayment in the Moulton goal.

  Moulton Ladies bow out of the competition had a few opportunities to take the lead themselves and had one been taken could have changed the complexion of the tie. A great game to watch especially 1st half an enjoyable trip to Northamptonshire, my thanks to Moulton Ladies for their help today with the teams and hospitality, best of luck for the rest of the season.

   Congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies who will now be looking forwards excitedly to who they will get in the next round of the FA Women's Cup the draw on Monday for the 3rd Round Qualifying. Thanks too to Wymondham manager Alex Guy for helping me out with their team details too. Added congratulations to Wymondham Town Ladies players Gemma Sanders and Laura Wiseman (both new signings this season) who have been selected for the England Women's Deaf Futsal squad for the upcoming World Cup to be held in Thailand in November. 

  *UPDATE* earlier this afternoon the draw for the FA Women's Cup 3rd Round Qualifying was made and it will be a repeat of last season's tie with Wymondham Town Ladies drawn at home to play Cambridge United WFC, scheduled for Sun 11th October.

    

Match Report - Mulbarton Belles v Lynn Ladies

  A new season of women's football in Norfolk kicked off last weekend, but this Sunday has the same feel about it as I take a look at two more teams in the county, both kicking off for their first match of the season in Division One as Mulbarton Belles welcomed newly promoted Lynn Ladies to Mulberry Park.

  A false start for Mulbarton Belles last weekend as they were forced to postpone their opening match of the season due to a lack of players, today as they get their league season under way at last, have just the bare 11 to call upon. Were a newly promoted side themselves the previous season. Hit the ground running with a fantastic start too, were the early season pace setters. Dropped off poorly in the latter half of the season eventually finishing 6th. Has been a rebuilding process during the close season with several players moving on leaving just a handful of last seasons squad have brought alot of new faces in and are looking to recruit more.

   Norfolk Division One is made up of 9 teams this season and Lynn Ladies were originally the side that missed out on an opening day fixture. Newly promoted to the top tier of women's football in Norfolk in their debut season since being formed had a strong campaign finishing in 2nd place behind league champions Brandon Town Ladies having been fighting at the top with them all season. Have lost a couple of players from last season, but have recruited too, with 4 new faces in the starting line up today.

   The venue Mulberry Park opposite the common in Mulbarton is a decent ground featuring a good sized pitch with woodland on the far side with a nice clubhouse across the carpark on the other side. Started off as a pleasant warm day, the clouds were building over head however as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

     Mulbarton Belles starting XI - Lauren King, Anna Clarke, Saffron Edwards, Jade Copeman, Leah Walker, Chloe Shaw, Hannah Ewart, Abbie Storey (C), Elodie Ryall-Davies, Olivia Mungham-Gray & Ellie Brown.

   Lynn Ladies starting XI - Stephanie Lund, Emma Woods, Katie Garner, Millie Wilson, Polly Baird, Vikki Burkauskaite, Leah Hall, Lisa Wilson, Jodie Hopkins, Shelley Woods (C) & Louise Coggles.
   subs - Louise Billingham, Chloe Edwards & Josie Turner.

    (roll on roll off substitutes)

    It's Lynn to kick off the match wearing an all purple strip with Mulbarton lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts with blue across the shoulders, blue shorts and yellow socks. The visitors are on the attack from the start taking the ball into the Mulbarton half are awarded a free kick wide on the right, it's Lynn captain Shelley Woods over the ball, plays it in from deep looking to send it in towards the near post area for her team mates to attack is too close to Mulbarton goalkeeper Lauren King who takes a confident catch early on.

   Woods is playing through the centre in attack for Lynn the ball is driven into her from the middle of the park she lays it out to Jodie Hopkins out on the left, taking her marker on she comes inside pushing to the edge of the box before unleashing a shot Mulbarton's Hannah Ewart intercepts and gets the ball clear of the box. One of Lynn's new faces Leah Hall get's hold of the ball in the middle of the park plays a good pass into the path of Hopkins coming in from the left takes on the shot on the run 20 yards out screws the ball away from goal wide.

Lynn Ladies Jodie Hopkins challenging Mulbarton Belles Leah Walker for the ball

   In the opening minutes Lynn are very much on top driving at the Mulbarton back line as Hall and Polly Baird another new addition to the squad are winning the battle for possession in the centre of the park.

  GOAL! 10 minutes haven't been played and Lynn take the lead as Hall once again is on the ball drives forwards into the Mulbarton half plays the pass out to Hopkins calling for it on her left, plays the ball into Woods who has come over to the left of the box, shifting the ball between her feet, right to left makes space for the shot, sending the ball across the six yard box and into the back of the net 0-1.

  An early change for Lynn as Emma Woods comes off having taken a knock, Chloe Edwards comes onto the pitch. Mulbarton attacks have been few and far between early on, have Ellie Brown brought in from the youth set up for her 1st senior start leading the line, has a chance as Mulbarton captain Abbie Storey plays the ball between the Lynn centre backs for her to chase down, sprinting clear brown bursts into the box is to the right of goal as she pulls the trigger drills the shot a foot wide.

Mulbarton's Elodie Ryall-Davies trying to get the better of Lynn Ladies Leah Hall.

   Woods is over another free kick wide the right halfway inside the Mulbarton half, plays it long towards the far post, Louise Coggles is there to attack the ball, can't quite get the touch to turn the ball home. Coggles then plays the pass out long to the left with Hopkins chasing it into the corner before sending the cross in across the six yard box, comes through to Edwards who miscues her shot the ball is retrieved by Vikki Burkauskaite another new face to the side, she squares the ball into Woods on the edge of the area, her shot is put straight into King who holds onto the ball. Coggles comes off with Josie Turner joining the attack.

   GOAL! A light drizzle has started to fall, Lynn's spirits are anything but dampened however as they double their lead. Play is building up down the right of the pitch with both Edwards and Burkauskaite involved, Woods has come across to offer support is given the ball on the right in front of the congested area, works the ball between her feet again before hitting it low and hard across the six yard box and in 0-2.

   GOAL! Lynn are dominating possession, Mulbarton are struggling to get hold of it and make progress up the pitch, 4 minutes after conceding the 2nd goal a 3rd is scored. Hopkins is causing problems down the left a set play is given away players come up as the ball is played into the box, the initial ball is cleared coming back out to the left Hopkins to play it in again this time it drops invitingly in front of goal, Baird is the 1st to react stretching a leg to stab the ball past King and into the goal 0-3.

   Lisa Wilson comes off for Louise Billingham for Lynn as the visitors continue to attack Woods on the drive down the left channel fires the pass into Turner in a central position inside the area take on the strike pulls it wide of target. Mulbarton very nearly concede a 4th as King's kick out of her area goes straight to Hall, her defence is caught static as Hall instinctively slides the ball back in behind with Woods making the move to latch onto it entering the area has just the keeper to beat, King stays on her line as Woods pulls the trigger makes the save with her legs as the ball is fired straight at her.

                        Half-time Mulbarton Belles 0-3 Lynn Ladies 

   A strong 1st half from Lynn, have dominated the possession and have created numerous chances to score taking 3 of them. Mulbarton have been on the back foot which has made it hard for them to get anything going in the final 3rd have done little to test Lynn goalkeeper Stephanie Lund in her 1st competitive start. 

   With no substitutes of their own to bring on Mulbarton make a positional change at the start of the 2nd half with their goalkeeper 1st half, King taking up an outfield position with team mate Chloe Shaw putting on the goalkeepers gloves. It's Mulbarton to get the 2nd half under way. The rain is falling steadily now have given up on packing the sun cream in my backpack long ago such has been the summer never go far without the umbrella though.

   Mulbarton are looking to pressure Lynn early in the 2nd half with King now looking to offer support to Brown in attack along with Leah Walker and Olivia Mungham-Gray on the flanks. Brown is willing to take players on getting her head down she pushes forwards whips the ball out to Mungham-Gray on the right she plays an early cross low on the diagonal into the area, King tries to make up the ground, not before Katie Garner comes and makes a no nonsense clearance.

   Woods has covered alot of ground across the front line for Lynn 1st half and is doing the same at the start of the 2nd half as she takes the ball into the right corner cutting it back across the area, misses Turner comes through to Hopkins 15 yards out fires her snap shot wide. Hopkins then has a chance to drive into the area from the left, rides a challenge before Storey races back to slide in and win the ball. Not long before Hopkins has the ball again and takes on the Mulbarton defence gets into the box before sending her shot wide.

Mulbarton Belles captain Abbie Storey bring the ball forwards

   Out on the right with Woods this time fires her cross into Turner in the centre chesting it down the ball gets stuck between her feet before she manages to dig it out for a shot 8 yards out lifts the ball over the bar. Lynn have a corner on the left the ball comes into the six yard box Baird rises to get her head to the ball turn it goal wards is palmed down by Shaw before 1st half keeper King launches the ball out of danger.

   GOAL! Lynn net their 4th goal of the match as they pile the pressure onto the Mulbarton defence. Edwards picks up the ball just over the half way line drives forwards, Woods wants it standing on the corner of the area played into her she returns the ball to Edwards continuing her run sweeps the cross along the goal line, Shaw fails to gather as it goes beyond her Turner is their to meet it turning it over the line from half a yard out 0-4.

  GOAL! A few Mulbarton heads have dropped Lynn keep coming is won deep by Hall she opens her foot to send the ball perfectly into the path of Woods who out paces her defensive marker pushing on into the box lays it back to Edwards making up the ground to support her on the right corner of the box she makes 1st time contact with the ball sending a looping shot in towards goal, with Turner closing Shaw down the ball bounces down between them and in. Edwards claims the goal. 0-5.

  GOAL! 5 becomes 6 as the team in purple enjoy a real purple patch Mulbarton lose possession inside their own half from a throw on the right is a great through ball that releases Turner coming in from the right is clear of everyone with the keeper back on her line she takes on the shot blasting the ball across goal and into the far corner 0-6.

   Wilson comes back on for Lynn with Edwards coming off. Woods tries to get her hat-trick in the most bizarre of fashions as a poor Mulbarton clearance presents her with the ball inside the box left of goal, defender and goalkeeper converge on her she goes to ground ending up on her face the ball is loose beside her with a right jab she sends the ball over the line, but everyone and their dog saw it so it's not allowed.

    Turner wants a hat-trick too as the ball is presented to her inside the box opts for power, too much smashes the shot against the cross bar. Coggles is back on the pitch and looking to get on the scoring act to fires narrowly over the bar from the left of the area as Woods fires a cross along the edge of the area. 

  Brown is still full of running for Mulbarton willing to take players on has good support as her captain Storey wins the ball and looks to take it into the opposition half try and give her side something, putting the ball through into Brown she gets her head down gets past one defender then two a third is too much as Garner comes in to make the tackle.

Ellie Brown on the attack for Mulbarton Belles

  GOAL! It's a 7th goal for Lynn winning the ball back inside their own half the ball is played up the left before being swept into the box with Turner in an advanced position can't get hold of her shot in the middle of the area, the ball though runs through to Wilson on the right of the six yard box she sends her shot back across goal and in 0-7.

   Shaw sets up a Mulbarton attack as she holds onto a long range Lynn shot and quickly releases it launching a powerful kick forwards with plenty of distance sends King in beyond the Lynn defence as she enters the box takes on an early shot sends the strike sails over the bar.

  Woods keeps the ball in on the right squares the cross along the face of the box, racing in Hall misses her kick, the ball rolls through to Coggles she gets plenty behind the shot firing the ball wide across the face of goal.

  GOAL! An 8th goal for Lynn and it's Woods to compete her hat-trick (legally this time). Is out on the left side of the pitch when the ball is played into her, drives forwards with the ball at her feet pushing inside through into the area opts to hit the shot low and hard along the face of goal the ball nestling into the far corner to make it 0-8.

Lynn Ladies captain Shelley Woods 

   That's it 8 goals for Lynn Ladies to open their league season with a convincing win away from home were strong all game with the players available from the bench to keep the energy in their attack for the whole 90 minutes a confidence boosting start to life in Norfolk Women's Division One.

  Far from the start Mulbarton Belles would have wanted a tough start to the season but have hardly had the best preparation bringing in alot of new faces, only natural heads will drop as the goals conceded grew. One game have to pick themselves up go again.

   Both are in action again next Sunday 20th Sept, with Mulbarton Belles away to local rivals Long Stratton Ladies and Lynn Ladies at home to Thorpe United Ladies.

  My thanks to both teams for the help with the teams today wish both the best of luck for the rest of the season.