Match Report - Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies v North Walsham Angels Ladies

  The Supporting Women's Football Blog takes in a in top of the table clash in Norfolk Women's Division Two this Sunday 1st v 2nd as Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies welcome North Walsham Angels Ladies to their Walmer Road Recreation Ground.

  Both sides are unbeaten this season so far and look hot favourites to win the two promotion spots up for grabs to Division One. Promotion the goal for both sides would be extra special to do it as Champions.

   Both sides were formed last season assembling good squads full of talent. That season saw an influx of new sides with Lynn Ladies being another new side whilst Brandon Town Ladies moved across to Norfolk from the Suffolk Women's Division both sides ran away with the Division Two that season whilst Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies and North Walsham Angels Ladies finished 3rd and 4th. A further influx of new sides into the Norfolk Women's Football Leagues has seen the creation of a 3rd Division this season. 

Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies have a 100% win record in the league to date, played 8 won 8 and are 2 points ahead at the top a with 8 wins from 8. Have also reached the semi-finals of the Suffolk Women's County Cup. 3 points today and they open up a huge gap in the race for the league title.

  North Walsham Angels Ladies also boast an unbeaten record in the league, drew one of their matches to leave them 2 points behind both having played 8 league games a win today and they move to the top of the table. Watched this fixture between the two sides last season almost a year ago an entertaining game the honours were even 1-1.   
  The venue today, Walmer Road, Recreation Ground, home of Kirkley & Pakefield FC, The Royals, who run a number of teams through all age groups, bustling with activity with plenty of youth matches having taken place. Boasts a number of pitches, with a clubhouse in the centre with a bar and refreshments. A wet start to Sunday morning, ain't that a surprise, raining heavily all the way there, but the match was on. Played on the main pitch with a small seated stand on one side the rain was driving steadily from one goal to the other it was thankfully to clear up soon after kick off.

   Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies starting XI - Shauna Brunton O'Neill, Jordan Harriet, Peta Belson, Sue Lyn KIng, Sam Brown, Gemma Farman, Jody Wells, Chantelle Keevil, Sophie Martin, Nikki Wigg (C) & Selina Rowland.
  subs- Jodie Fewkes, Abbie Knights & Lisa Sissen.

  North Walsham Angels Ladies starting XI - Cyan Fullbrook, Emily Farmer, Sian Wager (C), Megan Champion, Robyn Steele, Sophie Hall, Amy Hemp, Emma Allsopp, Lauren Yarham, Rachel Bussey & Luci Middleton.
  subs - Bethany Childs & Imogen Carver.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  Kirkley & Pakefield have the kick off in the 1st half a kitted out in blue shirts with white across the right shoulder, blue shorts and socks with North Walsham lined up opposite in white shirts with black across the shoulders, black shorts and black and white hooped socks. The rain has already started to lighten.

  The ball is out on the left side of the pitch from a throw Kirkley & Pakefield look to make ground up the flank played into Chantelle Keevil gets her head down looks to drive forwards, no way past North Walsham captain Sian Wager the ball is won and launched forwards striker Luci Middleton is already on her way seeing the ball drop over her shoulder half a yard on the Kirkley & Pakefield defence right side converging on the area, goalkeeper Shauna Brunton O'Neill comes rushing out to close her down on the corner of the area, Middleton gets her shot past her the ball is rolling towards goal, central defender Sue Lyn King is racing after doesn't look like she can get there, but she does throwing herself down to sweep the ball off the line.

   Kirkley & Pakefield get on the ball retain possession in their opponents half Gemma Farman looking for movement ahead of her left and right get's it from captain Nikki Wigg places her pass into her feet edge of the box she looks to spin of her central defensive marker, runs into Wager behind blocks and wins the ball back.

  Beside Farman in the Kirkley & Pakefield, Jody Wells latches onto a loose ball out from the back 20 yards out shifts the ball well between her feet to give herself room for the past looking to thread it into the run of Sophie Martin, North Walsham's Emily Farmer gets across the face of her box to tackles and clears, the ball is collected by Farman 25 yards out left side of the area looks to go for the strike, places her shot straight into the gloves of North Walsham goalkeeper Cyan Fullbrook.

  GOAL! 10 minutes gone and the game is ebbing and flowing both sides pushing up and a unit their is space in behind for the rapid counter if the ball is won back and played forwards, Kirkley & Pakefield's, Wigg is the player sent through over halfway heading for the box, Fullbrook comes to meet her edge of her area goes down to save as Wigg looks to put the ball through he, the keeper saves the ball pops loose, Martin having gotten up with play gets to it first outside the box right of the D looks to send the ball in towards goal, sends it high up and dropping far post comes down quickly North Walsham get bodies back not alot they can do as the ball drops under the bar and in 1-0.

Sophie Martin (no11)  is congratulated by her Kirkley & Pakefield team mates after scoring the opening goal
(photo credit Steve Wood)

   Middleton is always looking to peel off the shoulder of the last defender for North Walsham if her team mates want to play the ball long, they do out to the right again, Brunton O'Neill was moving before the pass was made seeing Middleton move, the keeper get's her boot on the ball 1st smashing it away for a throw. 

   Wells with a driving run through the centre fires her pass into Wigg 20 yards out, protects the ball well with Farman getting up to support rolls the ball back to her 25 yards out, goes for the 1st time shot, again she picks out Fullbrook in the middle of the North Walsham goal. 

   Amy Hemp peels away to the left as Lauren Yarham plays the ball out to her the North Walsham midfielder covering alot of grass, wins her side a throw deep in the Kirkley & Pakefield half. Keep it down their are getting more of the ball was Kirkley & Pakefield try to play it forwards for Wigg or Martin, Rachel Bussey intercepts takes the ball forwards down the right wins a corner of King. The ball is cleared the game is flowing well both sides evenly matched. Wells has a chance to have a shot on goal as a free kick is won on the right outside the box gets the ball through the bodies in front but sends her attempt wide across goal.

   Taking the ball up the left Keevil gets deep into North Walsham territory cuts her cross back to the corner of the area where Wigg is waiting, the ball gets trapped under her feet, before she digs the shot out is blocked near post by Megan Champion, with Robyn Steele getting back to mop up the loose ball. 

  Yarham with a great ball out to the left picks out Middleton looking for space gets hold of the ball and looks to push for the box, again Brunton O'Neill makes the decision to come early is outside the box can't go to ground, does enough as Middleton is caught in two minds ends up running into her and loosing the ball. Emma Allsopp has hold of the ball in the North Walsham half, Hemp is making the run down the left for her the past is good allows Hemp to roll her marker and break in behind, King comes across, is a good little battle between the pair the defender eventually getting the ball out for a North Walsham throw, Kirkley & Pakefield win it from the throw King putting it long for Wigg moving to get into the area, Champion slides in to intercept needs to win the ball and does.

  GOAL! 10 minutes before half time and North Walsham get themselves back on level terms Steele with the long pass looking to pick out Middleton peeling away from the last defender again pushing the ball to the left of the area 25 yards out, Brunton O'Neill comes out of her area again, Middleton is just that bit quicker this time gets the ball past the keeper although it takes a knick off her slowing it down, Middleton almost over runs it control marvellously flicking up her heel to bring it under control send the ball into the area shifts it to her right and buries it into the back of the net 1-1.

Luci Middleton on the ball for North Walsham Angels Ladies scorer of the opening goal

 Kirkley & Pakefield look to respond, Selina Rowland pulling away to the right looks to force her way into the North Walsham box, wins her side a corner kick. The ball is put in at a great height flashes across the six yard box Wigg rises at the back stick can't turn her header on target the ball out behind. At the other end Hemp has made some good runs from midfield all 1st half finds herself the furthest forwards as North Walsham's Steele play it up to her 25 yards out Kirkley & Pakefield stand off her she goes for the strike puts her effort wide across the box.

   A late counter attack from Kirkley & Pakefield Keevil travelling along way with the ball up the wing, squares her cross into Wigg coming across to help her left side of the box, wraps her foot over the shot in low near post, Fullbrook saves with her studs as she goes to ground.

      Half-time Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies 1-1 North Walsham Angels Ladies

  Great 1st 45 minutes entertaining the tone was set from minute one when the ball was cleared off the line. Both sides creating chances both with working hard to win the ball and these are two rivals that respect what the other can do.

  North Walsham get the 2nd half underway. Abbie Knights is on for Jordan Harriet at the start of the 2nd half for Kirkley & Pakefield. Hemp makes a good run early on in the 2nd half ball at her feet driving for the box central shifts the ball out to Middleton looking to come in from the right, given the ball inside the area gets her shot past King and she slides in to black, Brunton O'Neill has that side of her goal covered gets down to push the ball behind for a corner kick. The ball fired into the crowded near post area is put behind for a goal kick.

  North Walsham have started the brighter 2nd half, pushing forwards win another corner, played in from the right Wigg intercepts looks to header the ball away drops for Hemp 20 yards out jinks to her left to open up room to shoot, hits it hard her team mate Yarham far post can't get out of the way. Another North Walsham corner minutes later from the right fired in low with Middleton at the near post jumps over it the ball flying across the face of goal no one behind to capitalise.

   Keevil and Wager have enjoyed a fierce battle all game the Kirkley & Pakefield attacker a strong runner with the ball at her feet, drives down the left, wrong foots wager this time as she steps inside Rowland is free to receive the ball turns with Martin looking to run between the North Walsham centre backs, tries to play her though into the box, Champion keeps close tabs to get her toe on the ball 1st.

Chantelle Keevil attacking for Kirkley & Pakefield FC Ladies

  Wager brings the ball out from the back crossing the halfway line sends the ball into Middleton's feet back to goal edge of the D pokes it back to Hemp who slips as she looks to take on the shot the strike losing all pace rolls low and wide of the post. Hemp is on the move again out to the right this time plenty of space she whips in a good ball Yarham the target, Kirkley & Pakefield's Sam Brown rises highest to head the ball out of the area. 

   Another North Walsham corner won on the right the initial ball put into the near post area is cleared out to the corner of the box won back by North Walsham the shot comes in across the area is blocked Yarham tries to control the ball, no shot in lays it out to Hemp on the left she places it forwards for Middleton who pulls the trigger, Brunton O'Neill is there to make the save.

   GOAL! The pressure was building North Walsham are on top had brought a good crowd with them they were getting vocal too. Up and around the Kirkley & Pakefield box, King goes down nothing is given the ball still in play comes to the feet of Allsopp right of the D she pokes the ball forwards lifting it over Brunton O'Neill and into the back of the net to send the visiting support wild 1-2.

   Kirkley & Pakefield respond with a change bring King off sending Jodie Fewkes on she his pushed forwards up the right of the attack with Wigg dropping back into the centre of the defence. Wells looks to bring the ball on down the right, riding one challenge gets in behind come into the area but can't force the ball through past the near post, wins a corner which comes to nothing.

   Rowland is the player looking to go through the centre of attack for Kirkley & Pakefield now the ball is played from back to front through the middle to send her in behind the North Walsham defence, Fullbrook comes to meet her saving with her legs the ball swinging out to the right Rowland goes after it, she collides with Farmer as she tries to get hold of it inside the box the referee blows up the decision goes in favour of the visiting team free kick, not that Rowland is happy about it.

   Rowland fired up is out on the left as Farman gets the ball out to her, Rowland rolls her defender well to turn and have a run in towards the box coming inside squares it across the D with Fewkes in support cuts her foot across the ball as she goes to hit it pulling it away from the goal wide. 

  Middleton has he face in her hands in frustration as she misses an open goal. Does all the hard work breaking over the half way line behind the Kirkley & Pakefield defence is 30 yards out Brunton O'Neill has committed herself to the charge Middleton pushes the ball to her right to leave her stranded gets into the box defenders are racing to get back she shots, slices the ball wide of the near post.

   Up the other end Kirkley & Pakefield expose a gap on the right side of the North Walsham defence as they counter attack the ball in over the top for Rowland closing in on the corner of the area Fullbrook races out in meet her the both go to ground the keeper sliding in gets hold of the ball 1st Rowland can't stop clatters into her the whistle is blown even as Fullbrook hurt spills the ball and Rowland scrambles up to put the ball into the back of the net. Play is halted then Rowland goes back to check on Fullbrook the keeper is in a lot of pain, needs several minutes to recover not sure if she can carry one looks a painful one to the knee, takes her time getting back up but wants to continue even if she won't be taking the goal kicks as a precaution.

   Hemp plays a 30 yard pass for Middleton through the middle, the striker looks to shift the ball right then left between her feet before launching  a shot 20 yards out a yard over the crossbar. Kirkley & Pakefield make another change bringing of Peta Belson and sending King back on she goes back into the defence Wigg sent back up to join the attack. 

  Allsopp with more good running on the right is 20 yards out went she looks up sees Middleton on the move looks to play her in, Brown in front of Middleton does well to shield the ball get it back to her keeper inside the box. Keevil comes off for Kirkley & Pakefield with Lisa Sissen coming on going to the left of a front 3 with Rowland right, Wigg centre as the game enters stoppage time the home side push bodies forwards looking for the goal that will keep their unbeaten record in tack. 

  Get caught out the ball fed out to Hemp on half way she turns and powers her way into the Kirkley & Pakefield half has substitute Bethany Childs out to her left picks her out, Childs carries the ball out wide with Hemp continuing her run coming towards the left corner of the area, Childs puts the ball back into her, Hemp shoots, Brunton O'Neill makes a fantastic save getting a glove onto the ball to tip it onto the bar and over for a corner kick. 

   Wells on the drive through the centre hits the shot on the run is blocked by Champion just inside her box can't get it away the ball rolls to Farman she goes to shot gets it all wrong the shot high and wide the result a goal kick.

   GOAL! Heartbeat for North Walsham, joy for Kirkley & Pakefield at the death, the goal kick does get the needed clearance on the right side is latched onto by Wells pushes for the corner of the area before firing the ball in finds it's way through the crowded that side of the area rolling through to Wigg unmarked at the far post 3 yards out Fullbrook is there but little she can do as Wigg gets her foot over the ball and blasts it past her into the back of the net 2-2. 

Kirkley & Pakefield captain Nikki Wigg wheels away in celebration after getting the
equalising goal right at the death (photo credit Steve Wood)

 Kirkley & Pakefield with one more attack late in injury time Wells with the ball at her feet surging forwards on the left fires her pass into Martin who looks to hit it as she spins, is falling as she hits it the shot rolling wide, has taken a deflection corner. North Walsham defend and the final whistle blows the match ending 2-2, the gap at the top still 2 points between the 2 with 9 played, both still unbeaten this season, Kirkley & Pakefield drop points for the 1st time in the league.

   A great game to watch especially from a neutrals point of view both sides playing well, North Walsham will be disappointed that they didn't hold out so close to taking the 3 points but end of the day will take the draw. A fantastic advert for women's football in Norfolk by two emerging sides only in their 2nd seasons, the 2 meet again on the 21st February a 2pm kick off with Kirkley & Pakefield travelling to North Walsham, so if you want to see what women's football in Norfolk is all about then take a look at this one.

   My thanks to both sides for their help with the teams once again, and best of luck for the promotion race ahead.

   

Match Report - Enfield Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC

  The A10 derby is the featured match on the Supporting Women's Football Blog this Sunday a match from the FAWPL South East Division One, Enfield Town Ladies v Cambridge United WFC.

   A recently rearranged fixture, with the awful weather at the end of 2015 and the beginning of 2016 wreaking havoc with the fixtures lists meaning alot of teams are still waiting to kick a ball in competitive action. Good news for Enfield Town Ladies who haven't played a match in the league since the 25th October last year! As a result of that have slipped down the league table into 9th place as others around them have played. A single cup match in both November then December but that's it. This their 1st competitive game of 2016, have a record of 3 wins, a draw and 5 losses from 9 league games played, well clear of the relegation battle at the bottom of the table will be looking to climb instead.

   Cambridge United WFC in comparison have played 15 league matches to date, the 2nd highest in the league. Have recovered strongly from a poor start to the season getting regular games in are on an unbeaten run that stretches 8 matches, 6 wins and 2 draws in that time since mid October. Manager Steve Edwards bringing in strikers Paige Logie along with Sarah Wiltshire on loan from Yeovil Town Ladies, the welsh striker scoring 10 goals in 5 games. Wiltshire's loan spell has ended, however the club has brought in another player with FAWSL 2 experience on another short term loan basis, Anneka Nuttall from Watford Ladies, to give her competitive minutes on the pitch to help her preparation for the new FAWSL 2 season.

  The venue for today's match, the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium on Donkey Lane. I missed out on a cheeseburger but compensated with a steak and kidney pie. For once I was fully wrapped up for a miserable winters day, however getting into the stadium it as a lovely bright afternoon, dry and sunny... I'm not complaining mind.

   Enfield Town Ladies starting XI - Kerrie Marlborough (C), Beth Demery, Jordan Ferdinand, Claire Ford, Holly Brandon, Victoria Lewis, Nuala McKevitt, Ayse Mustafa, Alena Beganovic, Regan Coleman & Chloe Bassett.
   subs - Sheryce Slater, Cara Newton, Lorraine Mason, Cally Browne & Kate Wilding.

  Cambridge United WFC starting XI - Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Lucy Du Plooy, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Tahnee Perfect, Hannah Goodchild, Anneka Nuttall, Faith Hewitt, Isabella Simmons & Paige Logie.
  subs - Liz Pamplin, Laura Baker & Becky Taylor.

  Enfield kick off the 1st half wearing white shirts, blue shorts with blue and white hooped socks with Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and amber socks. 

   Enfield concede an early free kick in the centre of midfield as Anneka Nuttall looks to get on the ball bring in forwards, gets tripped. Cambridge captain Laura Bright to take sends the ball long towards the far post with Nuttall the player looking to get on the end of it, can't get a telling touch however wins a corner as the ball takes a knick off the defender sliding in with her. Swung in from the right the corner clears the crowd gathered at the near post is headed behind for a 2nd corner by Enfield's Claire Ford. This corner is played in form the right by Nuttall, Bright gets the touch near post lays the ball back out to Nuttall, wide right she goes for the shot aiming near post, Enfield goalkeeper and captain Kerrie Marlborough is across to cover and hold on to the shot.

   Both sides look to test the flanks early on, Isabella Simmons down the right for Cambridge on a couple of occasions as Bright looks to play her into space, whilst on that same side on the left for Enfield, Chloe Bassett looks to drive with the ball down the wing Cambridge right back Emma Jenkins keeping with her makes the tackle to win a goal kick off Bassett as they race to the byline. 

  A few rash challenges about, players lunging in, free kicks being given away, Cambridge have another just inside the Enfield half, Bright takes it early sending the ball long into space on the left, Faith Hewitt gives chase and getting her foot on the ball left of the box has Hannah Goodchild making up the ground to support her, passing the ball into her Goodchild turns and sends her pass into Paige Logie coming towards the ball at the near post inside the six yard box, has Ford at her back the central defender putting in a good tackle to prevent her turning for a shot.

  Enfield are competing with Cambridge for the ball, but not getting it into their opponents box, Victoria Lewis changes that with a great long range pass looking for the run of Regan Coleman coming in from the right, she can't get there but forces Cambridge to concede a corner, from the right swung in centrally, is a firm header by Cambridge's Kayleigh-Anne Burt to send the ball out of the area. 

  Driving with the ball at her feet deep into the Enfield half Hewitt wins a throw for Cambridge, level with the face of the box, the ball is played across the middle into Simmons 20 yards out wants to drive forwards attack the box, shifts the ball a couple to times too many white shirts in front of her Logie is available to her left prods the ball out to her a couple of yards inside the box Logie can see the ball into her leans back as she hits the shot looking to send it high loop over the keeper, the shot is just over the bar too.

  Goodchild steals in on the ball on half way as Enfield look to bring it out, moving forwards with the ball, Simmons is available on the right side Goodchild attempts to play her in sending the ball into the area, Marlborough is alert to the threat and off her line quickly coming out sliding in to claim. Cambridge continue to make progress on the right side from a throw Jenkins gets furthest forwards carries the ball into the box, Jordan Ferdinand gets back to put in the challenge concede a corner. Played into the near post from the right Cambridge's Bright rises with Enfield's Lewis for the ball loops up off one or the other, Marlborough behind them sees it safely into her gloves.

  Free kicks are being given away regularly and more decisions are going against Enfield much to the frustration of their bench, most on the half way line. Bright sends the next one into the face of the area, inside the D, Nuttall gets a firm header on the ball directs it curling towards goal, Marlborough has plenty of time to see it coming gets across to claim. Logie then has a chance to strike from distance as Cambridge break up another Enfield move send the ball long into the striker 20 yards out, takes on the early shot is rising but heading straight for Marlborough.

Loan signing on the ball for Cambridge United WFC

  In the opposition goal Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook has had little to do, is called into action as Bassett gets hold of the ball on the left for Enfield a strong run sees Alena Beganovic making a move centrally to get into the box looks to pick her out with the pass, Crook calls for it, gets it up into her gloves just before Beganovic can pounce. On the opposite flank good foot work from Aysa Mustafa in the corner from a throw in sees her whip a cross into the box, catches Coleman at the near post by surprise, does well to get her foot on the ball but can only turn it behind for a goal kick.

  Logie and Hewitt combine well on the left side as Cambridge attack Hewitt racing over halfway receives the ball from Logie as the striker holds it up, spins off her marker and wants Hewitt to play the ball into space behind on the left, Hewitt sends the ball long for her to chase down then goes forwards herself getting into the box left of goal, Logie fizzes the cross into her, is a good control and take down from Hewitt, the shot doesn't come off snatches the ball wide.

  Logie goes after the ball played in behind on the left once again, has Nuttall getting up to support, plays the ball into her feet inside the box, Nuttall swivels on the ball looking to send the cross through the six yard box, Marlborough gets down and throwing an arm out makes a vital save late in the half to push the ball away, had she not done so, Goodchild would have walked the ball into the net.

   Half-time Enfield Town Ladies 0-0 Cambridge United WFC

  Goalless at the break, no doubt Marlborough has been the busier of the 2 goalkeepers, Cambridge have the better chances to open the scoring. A competitive match, but then I'm told it always is. Enfield's build up play is being disrupted by the number of free kicks that are going against them in the middle, but that is only firing them up.

  Cambridge get the 2nd 45 underway, looking to go left, Enfield's Beth Demery puts in a great tackle to win the ball, play it into the middle, Lewis then puts the ball out to Coleman on the left, she puts the early cross along the face of the box for Bassett, in space 20 yards out opens up her body to put her foot through the ball meets it perfectly the ball angling away heading for the top corner, Crook responds throwing herself up and back to tip the ball over and around the post, the resulting corner comes to nothing.

  Hewitt looks to play the ball over the top for Logie as she breaks on the half way line, Ford is an experienced defender reading the ball has given herself a couple of yards on the striker to get into position to throw a leg out take the ball from her as she looks to control for a shot. Nuttall wanting the ball put out to her on the right wins Cambridge a corner kick, takes it sending the ball into the area looking for Bright standing on the penalty spot goes beyond her, Burt is at the back of the pack breaks away after the ball retrieving looks to get into a crossing position ends up putting the ball behind for a goal kick.

Cambridge's Tahnee Perfect battles for the ball with Enfield's Ayse Mustafa
(photo credit - Kevin Richards)

  The game is more stretched Enfield are using the width more themselves 2nd half win a corner on the right side. The ball is sent in towards the back of the area, Nuala McKevitt gets her head on the ball sends her header wide across the face of goal. 

Enfield's Nuala McKevitt sends he header wide across goal.

  GOAL! Bassett's early shot has given Enfield a huge boost as they look to take the game to Cambridge more, Holly Brandon wins a corner of Jenkins as she attempts to get onto the end of a cross whipped in from the right side. From the corner on the left Cambridge are caught out no body tracks Coleman as she drifts from the centre of the six yard box towards the near post the delivery is good straight at her she lifts a boot and hooks the ball straight over Crook and into the back of the net 1-0.

Enfield Town Ladies, Regan Coleman 

  Soon after conceding Cambridge make a double change, taking off both wide players, Simmons and Hewitt, bringing on Becky Taylor who goes out to the left and Laura Baker out to the right with Nuttall put closer to Logie. 

  Enfield's Beganovic get's her head down and runs with the ball on the right taking on her marker, cuts the cross back inside to the edge of the area with Coleman arriving, can't get the shot out from under her feet Cambridge block the ball rolls loose to McKevitt 20 yards out only one thing on her mind hit it! The Cambridge centre backs converge and block the shot. Enfield make their 1st change with Lewis the player coming off, Cally Browne coming on.

  Cambridge win another free kick in the middle, Crook wants to take it launches it towards the face of the Enfield box, is headed clear by Demery, Cambridge regain the ball Tahnee Perfect laying it out to Taylor on the left she looks to carry the ball into the area, Ford comes across to get on her shoulder and roll the ball out for a corner. A good delivery into the centre of the box Baker rising can't connect, Taylor tries to control the ball at the far post just won't settle before Enfield close her out.

Cambridge's Hannah Goodchild winning the header against Enfield's Cally Browne
(photo credit - Kevin Richards)

  Perfect puts a good ball into Nuttall central her back to goal spreads her pass out to Baker coming in from the right, shifting the ball inside to get a yards on the defender in front of her shoots with her left foot inside the box the ball rolls into Marlborough's gloves. Ferdinand has grown into the game with Cambridge looking to pick out Baker on the right the left back stays on her defends well denying her a 2nd shooting chance as they enter the box.

  With Cambridge pushing forwards looking for the equaliser, Enfield are finding more space in round the back, Bassett up the right fires a good ball into Coleman in the box, tries to turn and get the shoot away, is marked closely the ball blocked. Bringing the ball out Perfect and Baker link up a 1:2 before Perfect looks to slide Logie through in the middle, Ford has kept with her again and gets her tackle right.

2nd change for Enfield as they bring on Sheryce Slater for Beganovic with a little under 10 minutes to play. The home side are keeping hold of the ball taking it deep into the Cambridge half, win a corner on the right, the ball whipped in towards the near post is headed wide across goal, think it was Ford with the touch as she jogs back to her defensive position. Bright trips up Coleman winning Enfield a free kick on the right, Demery to take plays the ball into the box, Bright headers clear, only as far as Demery who takes on the shot angling in towards the near post Crook palms the ball down and holds.

  Closing minutes of the game and Enfield with the advantage are looking to see it out run the ball in the corners and frustrate Cambridge, they bring off their goal scorer Coleman with Cara Newton coming on as the game goes into injury time, the home side see it out and after so long without a game resume with a win and 3 points.

  A competitive match some good battles going on Enfield were much improved 2nd half the early strike by Bassett lifting them they got their noses in front and held on to the lead. Cambridge will rue not taking one of the chances they had in the 1st half always looked like it was going to be a tight match that a single goal would settle it and it did their unbeaten run coming to an end. Tale of two halves.

  Nice to see a game in some sunshine, my thanks to both clubs with their help with the teams today.

  

Match Report - Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v West Ham United Ladies

  Semi-final action from the Ryman Cup this Thursday evening on the Supporting Women's Football Blog a trip down to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United Ladies.

    This fixture is already a week late having been postponed from last Thursday, rearranged for tonight, both sides are rearing to go, just get a competitive match under their belts as neither has played since the 20th December 2015. A cup semi-final, a London derby too.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies reached the final of the competition last season, ended up runners-up as Charlton Athletic Women went on to lift the trophy. Entered the competition at the quarter final stage with an away trip to take on Gillingham FC Ladies a match I went along to watch back at the end of November 2015. Turned out to be a real thriller with Tottenham looking good at 3-0 up before Gillingham came back to make it 3-2, one more each to make it 4-3 to Tottenham who went on to seal it 5-3 with a goal from Lucy Loomes. One game away from another final.

   So too are West Ham United Ladies, and this is their 1st game in the Ryman Women's Cup. No fault of their own were drawn away in the quarter finals too, only for their opponent having to withdraw from the competition after infringing the rules. One game away from a final and a chance to win some silverware. This is the 1st time I will have seen West Ham United Ladies play. One of the more proactive clubs on social media has been a turbulent  season so far a new manager in and a player dispute that saw 6 1st team regulars leave including their captain and vice captain, said my piece on that at the time, not the PR they wanted. Everything has to move on and the club has been busy recruiting new faces from England and overseas, goalkeeper Lauren Picton has come in along with Elizabeth Berkeley formerly with Millwall Lionesses. Italian and French players too, Giulia Ferrandi came in earlier in the season, more recently Cindy Ferreira has joined the club, with two more Llona Dronne and Claire Lallant sent to join from across the channel. A large influx of players will cause a transitional phase but with the season well under way West Ham United Ladies have to hit the ground running.

   The venue tonight Tottenham Hotspur Ladies new home ground this season, Cheshunt FC, a great stadium to host FAWPL football, a large pitch surrounded by a ground that is under going redevelopment new club house and refreshments with hot food available is on going but not affecting the supporters enjoyment of the football. A clear and cold evening my 1st midweek match of 2016.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI - Toni-Anne Wayne, Sophie McClean, Leah Rawle, Alex Keown, Jenna Schillaci (C), Shannon Moloney, Lucia Leon, Wendy Martin, Rosie Kmita, Avilla Bergin & Bianca Baptiste.
  subs - Chloe Morgan, Riana-Devi Soobadoo, Molly Kmita, Ronnell Humes & Lucy Loomes.

   West Ham United Ladies starting XI - Lauren Picton, Elizabeth Berkeley, Olivia Sammons, Hannah Wheeler, Chelsea Hinz, Katie Bottom (C), Gemma Abela, Karen Ray, Whitney Locke, Giulia Ferrandi & Romina Pinna.
   subs - Cindy Ferreira, Georgia Miller, Daniella Ritson, Erika Campesi & Rosie Missen.

  Under the lights it's West Ham to get the tie underway kicking off the 1st half wearing claret and blue shirts, white shorts with claret socks against Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Lauren Picton in goal for West Ham tonight with Indian international goalkeeper Aditi Chaunan away with her national side.

   The visitors look to spread play out to the left from the start Olivia Sammons pushing up the pitch from left back, looking to bring the ball down and take on Sophie McClean the Tottenham right back closes her down wins the ball, the home side set up a rapid counter attack the ball play switched out to Avilla Bergin to attack down the left side, takes on Elizabeth Berkeley the pace on the ball allowing her to get round the full back she bursts into the area closing in on the byline pulls the trigger as she enters the six yard box, West Ham goalkeeper Lauren Picton dives at her near post, the shot is under her, bulges the side netting.

   Tottenham soon impose themselves on the match with possession inside the West Ham half pushing their defence back using the width on both wings, a throw from the left is brought down and the cross swept into the area at the far post Wendy Martin gets her head on the ball sending it back into the centre, drops for Bianca Baptiste around the penalty spot, she looks to turn it goalwards put Martin through, instead places it too close to Picton the keeper scooping up the ball. 

  Tottenham's build up play is fast and fluid players executing short passes then moving quickly to get past West Ham make themselves available for the return ball, Rosie Kmita out right has Martin in front of her rolling her in she squares her cross along the face of the box, a yard inside the pass is just behind Baptiste, the striker recovers well spinning back and getting over the ball to get a shot away is dragged wide of the post. Baptiste is the player coming in from the right side as Tottenham regain possession on half way in behind the West Ham back line she unleashes her shot Picton dives to try and reach it, the shot flashes across the face of goal and out the other side, a corner is signalled, Picton getting the faintest of touches. The corner is delivered to Martin at the far stick again, her header down into the area is met by Lucia Leon looks to hit the ball as it falls to her plants the ball straight into Picton's gloves.

   West Ham cannot make it stick up top with all of their players back in their own half at times, when they do try and push up they risk Tottenham getting in behind, both centre backs are busy, Chelsea Hinz having to keep an eye on Martin, whilst Hannah Wheeler does well against Baptiste as the striker attempts to try and steal in behind her. Martin has a go from distance with Baptiste getting hold of the ball on the left travelling at speed wraps her foot over the ball sending a fierce ball across the park coming at Martin fast her 1st touch is very good sets up the half volley meeting it sweetly lifts her shot over the bar. Baptiste and Martin are linking well tonight with the pair looking to move the instance the ball is won back, the pass fired in towards Baptiste her back to goal allows the ball to roll with Martin making a run to get into the area on the right side, Baptiste turns and diverts the ball through to her, Picton seeing the threat is already on the move throws herself down in front of Martin making the save at Martin's feet.

   West Ham's attackers have had little of the ball Whitney Locke playing on the right side makes progress up the wing gets her side a throw, from there the ball is swept into the area, Tottenham's Alex Keown heads the ball out falls to Italian, Giulia Ferrandi 25 yards out looks to send a strike in on goal, the ball drops into the gloves of Toni-Anne Wayne well placed in the Tottenham goal. The home side set up a quick fire counter the ball put out to the right early Rosie Kmita sending the ball into the area with Martin the sole target, up against Berkeley she gets in front of her with the ball dropping, has to stoop to get her head on the ball, good contact however the ball is turned wide of the post. 

   West Ham bringing the ball out from the back encourage players to make runs, in the middle Gemma Abela spreads play with a long ball from just inside her half with Locke bombing up from the right to get into a central position, Wayne comes racing out of her area and get's there 1st to clear, needed too. From the throw on the right, Locke is put in down the channel, wrapping her foot around the ball sends her cross along the face of the goal, just a little too high for Romina Pinna coming in at the far post.

   Bergin ploughs forwards on the left looking to come inside as she enters the area, the corner kick is conceded, Baptiste to take it looks to curl one in towards the near post, is going in, Picton under pressure with white shirts around her does well to get it away standing on her line, another corner is conceded this one Baptiste plays long to the far post looks to head the ball down towards goals, West Ham have bodies in the way the shot is blocked.

   GOAL! 30 minutes played and Tottenham finally break the dead lock have been putting the West Ham defence under alot of pressure with their pace and player movement, Bergin has been over on the right side for the past few minutes getting onto the ball she surges down the wing as the home side easily regain possession, sends an early ball into the area with just Baptiste to aim for, the striker coming in from the left gets herself in front of Berkeley as the two enter the six yard box, directs her shot past Picton off the post and it's in 1-0.

  Pinna and Katie Bottom the West Ham captain try to build an attack up the right, Bottom playing the ball into Pinna, the Italian sends the ball back into her then spins looking to get in behind, Bottom gets the ball over the top into her run, Jenna Schillaci, Tottenham's captain reads the move prevents Pinna getting into the box. Ferrandi with a burst of pace does put Pinna through on goal moments later cutting in from the right side the striker is onto the ball put over into the area closing in on Wayne coming across to cover her near post, smashes her shot against her, tries to get something on the rebound knocks the ball out of play. West Ham make a change bring on Erika Campesi for Berkeley with Bottom dropping in at right back Campesi in front of her. 

  GOAL! Penalty to Tottenham! Another rapid counter move from the home side see's Martin on the ball and powering forwards towards the area, bursting inside she is brought down the referee points immediately to the penalty spot. Martin gets up and it's her to take the spot kick, cool as you like outside of the foot sends the ball to the right and into the back of the net 2-0 with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play

Wendy Martin making it 2-0 to Tottenham from the penalty spot.

 Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 2-0 West Ham United Ladies 

  The referee brings the 1st half to a close with Tottenham continuing to press forwards looking to add to the scoreline. The goals coming late in the half the home side have been dominant 1st half their pace, movement and reading of the play far better than West Ham's who have lacked fluidity and communication been unable to retain possession of the ball needed a spell to settle thing's down didn't come 1st half. 2-0 down however the tie is far from over, need to be better 2nd half if they want to get back into the match.

 

   West Ham have made a change at the start of the 2nd half with one of their new signings Cindy Ferreira on in place of Karen Ray the French player a more attacking option. Tottenham get the 2nd half under way. One of the thing's West Ham needed to do was press the ball higher up the and straight from the start you can see this is exactly what they are trying to do with Ferrandi in particular looking to get after the Tottenham defenders when they look to bring it out from the back. 

   GOAL! An early goal in the 1st half would go along way to deciding the tie and it's the last thing West Ham wanted as they find themselves 3-0 down. Trying to push up the West Ham defence is caught out as the ball is put into Martin 25 yards out taking the ball on into the area moving away to the left of the goal, takes on the shot lifting the ball over Picton it crashes against the cross bar and drops favourably inside the six yard box for Bergin coming in from the right to send over the line.

  Play is brought back for a Tottenham free kick 30 yards out as Baptiste looks to bring the ball forwards is brought down. The free kick is put in towards the crowded penalty spot, Hinz with a firm defensive header gets it clear. A few strong challenges flying about the referee stops play to have a word calm it down in the middle. A mis-cued clearance from the back for Tottenham presents Ferrandi with a half chance 22 yards out left side fires the shot back in the ball travelling along the ground straight at Wayne.

  Ferreira with good hold up play on the right for West Ham wins the visitors a corner kick the delivery is swept in towards the far post both Pinna and Wheeler are their the ball is turned on target Tottenham have plenty of white shirts in front of the ball to block. Ferreira links up with Pinna on the right side squaring the ball into Pinna she looks to turn and hit from the corner of the box doesn't get the contact she wants the ball running along the ground claimed by Wayne. 

  Campesi is brought down in the middle of the park, West Ham play the set piece into the area on the right side Pinna gets the ball across towards the far post, Locke is coming in to meet the ball, looks to place her headed ball past Wayne coming across ends up putting it straight into the keepers gloves. Tottenham bring off Shannon Moloney, bring on Molly Kmita who goes to right back with McClean moving into the midfield. The 2nd half a lot more even than the 1st half both sides looking for the quick counter attack, the ball is fired into Pinna 20 yards out back to goal looks to turn and hit the shot, blasts it wide. West Ham lose the ball as they move forwards straight away Martin is off looking to get in behind wanting the ball put through to her, into the box right of goal, looks to see the ball across her hit the shot, Picton comes racing out to close her down sliding in the shot is smashed against her.

  Georgia Miller comes on for West Ham, Locke the player giving way. Soon after Tottenham make another change with Baptiste coming off, Ronnell Humes coming on to join the attack. Ferreira has given the West Ham attack a little more bite 2nd half as she looks to get on the ball and drive at the players in front of her, a good run coming in from the left fires her cross in towards the six yard box, Wayne gets down to claim it gets hurt as Pinna tries to steal in before her, needs treatment play is held up West Ham having a corner, Wayne is okay to continue, the corner is defended cleanly at the near post. 

   GOAL! The game enters the last 10 minutes a 3 goal advantage Tottenham are in control attacking down the right side Rosie Kmita is sent tumbling. The free kick is awarded.the ball right side of the area is sent into the centre of the six yard box comes into Martin who looks to control and turn it past Picton close on her, Picton gets herself down to make the save, can't hold onto the ball and spilling loose falls to Humes beside Martin, she sends the ball back crossing the line to score her 1st senior goal for the club 4-0. 

  West Ham now 4-0 down push players forwards trying to get something out of the match, Pinna wins her side a corner kick on the right. The ball is fired into her feet, shifts it before playing it back towards Campesi outside the box she hits the shot 1st time Tottenham again have the bodies back to put in the block. With play stretched Tottenham have space in behind and the players to exploit it Rosie Kmita has made two or three runs out to the left without being spotted, get's it this time and racing in around the full back cuts the ball back into the box with Martin arriving on cue to meet the ball with a strong header, over the keeper the ball smashes against the bar, falls back down into the area, Leah Rawle having gotten up to support the attack is leaning back as she lunges to try and turn it home sends the ball wide. 

  GOAL! Into the 90th minute Tottenham attack down the right side with Molly Kmita bringing the ball forwards rolling it into Humes peeling out towards the wing, taking on her marker gets in behind and sends the cross into Bergin making a move towards the near post, clever play from Bergin knows where Picton is she sees the ball into her feet then produces a neat little turn to whip the ball home across the face of goal 5-0. 

  Injury time is all Tottenham's as they see out the final whistle and win the semi-final to reach their 2nd successive Ryman Women's Cup Final. Dominated very early on and although West Ham improved 2nd half they got the early 3-0 cushion in the 2nd half always in control of the tie. Will find out next Wednesday who their opponents will be as holders Charlton Athletic Women take on Herne Bay Ladies at home. Whoever they face Tottenham will want to go one better this time around.

   

  Win or lose both sides have some much needed competitive minutes under their belts. Both are in FA Women's Cup action this coming Sunday, having seen their 2nd Round Proper ties postponed twice will be hoping it's 3rd time lucky, West Ham with another London derby away to Crystal Palace Ladies, whilst Tottenham have an away match against Swindon Town Ladies.

   My thanks to both clubs for their help with their teams tonight.  

   

Match Report - Wymondham Town Ladies v Brandon Town Ladies

  A trip over to Kings Head Meadow this Sunday afternoon to watch a top of the table clash in Norfolk Women's Division One with 3rd placed Brandon Town Ladies travelling to 4th placed Wymondham Town Ladies. 

  At the start of the 2015/16 season, Norfolk Women's Division One looked like it would be highly competitive at the top of the table with up to 4 sides all looking like they could be title contenders, defending champions Alysham FC Ladies amongst those, currently lead the way with Thorpe United Ladies champions themselves the season before in 2nd place. Laying 3rd in the table going into today's game are Brandon Town Ladies moved across from the Suffolk Women's Division last season to join the Norfolk Women's leagues, won Division Two last season to earn promotion to the top tier of women's football in the county and have started strongly. In 4th place are Wymondham Town Ladies the only side in the league with a 100% record still intact going into today's game have played less league games than the 3 sides above them.

   Part of the reason for Wymondham Town Ladies having played less league games than everyone else is their extended run in the FA Women's Cup back in 2015 so very nearly making it to the 1st Round Proper 3 of those matches featuring on the Supporting Women's Football Blog. Manager Alex Guy has a strong and stable squad to call upon, a few out with injury but will be keen to play having not seen any competitive football since 13th December 2015.

   Brandon Town Ladies laying 3rd in the league table have lost just the once this season and that in their very 1st match of 2016 last Sunday going down 3-1 at home to Aylsham FC Ladies, having inflicted the 1st defeat on the defending champions themselves on their own patch in their last match of 2015. All very tight at the top 4 points separating the top four every game between any of them is huge.

  The table has seen some readjustment at the start of 2016 with the unfortunate news that bottom side Mulbarton Belles has dropped out of the league, and both sides having beaten them earlier in the season saw 3 points lost.

  Another weekend where postponements were to dominate, finding a game that was on was going to be tricky. Snow covered many parts of the country whilst elsewhere it was frozen or waterlogged pitches. The pitch at King's Head Meadow was frozen, but lays favourably towards the early morning sun which reached most of the pitch softening up the surface enough to make it playable. Looked a little cut up but has seen a lot of action if not women's football of late. Looked bobbly and running with the ball wouldn't be easy. It was dry at least if still bitterly cold the hat was on protecting the ears for the 1st time this season.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Gemma Hamilton-Rout, Brooke Cheal, Mary Cann, Polly Tarrant, Gemma Sanders, Rachel Cossey (C), Laura Hammerton, Kelly Ayers, Kayleigh Holloway, Laura Wiseman & Sally Hammerton.
  subs - Gabby Stone, Louise Hamilton-Rout & Emily Anderson.

  Brandon Town Ladies starting XI - Shannon Oderbrecht, Leanne Sloan, Melanie Talbot, Laura Grove, Eleanor Marshall, Chloe Slater, Frankie Torrance, Natasha Patten, Brooke Wickens, Nettie Stillinger & Tiffany Forshaw (C)
  subs - 

( roll on roll off substitutes )

  A few out injured for Wymondham gave others a chance in the starting line up with Gemma Sanders and Brooke Cheal coming into the defence, named 3 on the bench in contrast to Brandon who had brought just the bare 11 with them, no substitutes. It's the home side, Wymondham to kick off the 1st half wearing red shirts, black shorts and socks against Brandon lined up in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts.

  Wymondham look to get the ball out to the left early on into the feet of Kayleigh Holloway, a player who likes to get on the ball and take on players, pushes down the wing before cutting inside sending a diagonal ball into the box with striker Laura Wiseman making the run for her, Brandon defender Laura Grove, gets across Wiseman and clears the ball for an early corner. Sent into the box from the left comes in central Brandon keeper, Shannon Oderbrecht calls for it and claims confidently.

  Holloway with another strong run on the ball down the left sets up a Wymondham counter attack, her cross into the box is too heavy for Wiseman to get to coming towards the ball, rolls through the the right side of the area, Gemma Sanders has surged up the pitch from right back gets onto the ball looks to shift it inside a yard and pull the trigger, Natasha Patten having tracked back for Brandon puts her body in the way of the shot.

   The home side win a fortunate free kick after Brandon's Frankie Torrance slips over. With the ball in the centre circle Brooke Cheal sends the ball long towards the edge of the area, Wiseman stepping forwards controls the ball on her chest looks to bring it down and hit on the turn, gets in up and over the players around her but drops short of goal into the arms of Oderbrecht. Lively opening to the match.

 

Brandon Town Ladies, Nettie Stillinger attempting
to hold the ball up against Wymondham captain
Rachel Cossey

 Brandon are getting the ball forwards themselves enjoying some sustained possession in and around the Wymondham penalty box leading the line early on Nettie Stillinger is covering alot of ground and can hold it up to allow others to get up in support play is switched from the left side across the face of the box out to Brooke Wickens on the right before she puts it back into the feet of captain Tiffany Forshaw 20 yards out goes for goal, gets no pace on the shot rolls through to Gemma Hamilton-Rout in the Wymondham goal. 

  

The corner count is rising for Wymondham are looking to take the ball down the flanks, Brandon though are getting plenty back when they lose the ball, tracking the runners not finding a way in behind the cross is often cut out deflected away for the corner kick and when the ball does come into the box it is usually a yellow shirted player that gets it away. The game is being played at a brisk tempo both sides getting it out from the back quickly and possession is fairly even. 

Wymondham Tow Ladies, Laura Hammerton looking to get past Brandon Town Ladies attackers

   Laura Hammerton pushes over the halfway line with the ball for Wymondham sends a great ball straight through the middle into the box for Wiseman back to goal around the penalty spot, with a turn and hit she blasts her shot goalwards is straight at Oderbrecht who going down saves at close range, the ball is loose inside the six yard box, one of her defenders gets to the ball to clear even as Wiseman swoops for it.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Laura Wiseman

   Holloway is held back by Wickens on the left, wins the free kick, from the wide position the ball is swept into the box, Forshaw back to defend for Brandon gets her head to the ball 1st puts it out for the corner. The set piece played in from the left falls to the edge of the box, Wiseman latches onto it her shot is blocked the loose ball is picked up by Forshaw plays it long for Stillinger 25 yards out she controls it well looking to spin to her left drive at goal, a last ditch lunge from Cheal to put her toe on the ball takes it away from the attacker. 

  Patten having to keep an eye on Sanders bombing forwards, has the opportunity to bring the ball up the pitch, has Torrance making a run through the middle wanting the ball lays it into her path, Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey has gone back with her makes the challenge to win the ball as the pair enter the area. 

Brandon Town Ladies captain, Tiffany Forshaw

  On the counter attack Brandon pile players forwards with Torrance on the ball putting it through into the run of Forshaw ahead of her 20 yards out right of the area Forshaw sends the ball out to Wickens wide right and continues her run into the box, Wickens gives her the ball back, Hamilton-Rout comes racing out to try and put her off sliding in, Forshaw gets her shot past her looking for the far corner the ball rolls narrowly wide across the goal.

   Wymondham make their 1st change bringing off Kelly Ayers who has just hurt herself going in for the ball Emily Anderson is the player coming on. Brandon win a free kick just inside their own half the ball is put long towards the Wymondham area Cheal rises to head the ball away miscues knocking it down into the ground straight at Stillinger who takes two strides then pulls the trigger looking to shoot across the keeper, Hamilton-Rout is down sharply pushes the ball wide out to the left, Patten out there senses a chance races in to get onto the loose ball, a Wymondham defender just beats her to the ball smashing it against her to go out for a goal kick. 

   Forshaw battles her way through the Wymondham midfield then knocking the ball on finds the extra yards in her legs to get after it catch the defenders in front of her flat footed with Hamilton-Rout already on her way Forshaw shoots 20 yards out leaving the keeper stranded turns to see the ball is off target. Louise Hamilton-Rout is the next to come on for Wymondham with Laura Hammerton coming off.

  Late in the half and Sanders is racing up the right wing the ball sticking to her foot Marshall comes across and going shoulder to shoulder makes the sliding challenge to put the ball out for a corner. Initially cleared from the area back out to the right, the ball is with Sanders again right corner of the area she drives inside looking for an opening none available smashes her shot into the Brandon defenders in front of the her.

Half-time Wymondham Town Ladies 0-0 Brandon Town Ladies

  An entertaining and competitive 1st 45 minutes the game has been fairly even in terms of possession with neither side able to find the break through. Wymondham playing at a high temp are looking to make joy with their wide players but Brandon are dropping everyone deep to defend when they do meaning there is no way in round the back, crosses getting cut out before they can reach the attackers in front of goal. Both keepers have made a vital save, Brandon have worked had created a few openings themselves but with just the bare 11 would they be able to match Wymondham's tempo 2nd half?

  It's Brandon to kick off the 2nd half, Wymondham have made a change during half time with Sanders now on the bench with Gabby Stone on. Brandon attack right at the start, with Stillinger linking up with Forshaw sending her through into the box, Tarrant comes across timing her challenge perfectly to slide in on the ball take it away from Forshaw and out for a corner, the ball is sent in low towards the near post from the corner gets a touch the ball ends up in the side netting.

  Wymondham have set up slightly differently 2nd half with Cossey dropping into the back line allowing the full backs to push higher up the pitch. In an advanced role Cheal on the left bombs forwards as Wiseman having had the ball played into her feet holds it up Cheal runs across her Wiseman sends the ball into her run, driving into the area Cheal shoots early aiming near post, Oderbrecht is across has the angle covered holds onto the shot. The 2nd half has started at the same high tempo as seen in the 1st half. Forshaw is leading the line for Brandon now with Stillinger in a deeper role in midfield. 

Brooke Cheal found herself able to get forwards more 2nd half here the defender is looking to stop
 Brandon Town Ladies, Brooke Wickens doing the same.

  Attacking down the right Wymondham win a corner, Forshaw is back to defend head the ball out for another corner. This one is played out to the edge of the area is fizzed back into the box and comes out again just as quick heading straight for Wiseman 20 yards out right of the D, only one thing on her mind meet the ball on the volley, hits it hard, but sends it wide.

   Melanie Talbot brings the ball out from left back for Brandon before laying it out to Forshaw peeling out to the left herself makes good progress with the ball as Wickens makes a run towards the near post with Stillinger behind her as Forshaw crosses the ball in too high for Wickens it goes wide across the six yard box is retrieved by Stillinger on the right, looks to drive into the six yard box and shoot Wymondham block it the ball comes out to Anderson she travels along way with the ball, Brandon find themselves stretched at the back for once as she almost over runs the ball but slides in to prod it into Wiseman's run peeling out to the right of the area, Grove gets a last ditch lunging tackle in take the ball off her toes.

Kayleigh Holloway always a threat for Wymondham
Town Ladies when she has the ball at her feet

  The game is beautifully poised could go either way, Holloway driving with the ball at her feet down the right this time having worked her way across the pitch, fires her cross in low into the feet of Wiseman, just inside the box looks to swivel and shoot, comes in fast at Oderbrecht and a yard either side of her the keeper would have been in trouble as it is she drops to her knees and just about holds onto the ball.

  

 

16 year old Chloe Slater has come all the way
through the youth ranks at Brandon Town Ladies

 Midway through the 2nd half and Wymondham are pressing hard pushing the full backs on it looks as if Brandon are starting to tire a little, Wymondham respond by making changes with Laura Hammerton and Kelly Ayers returning to the action in place of Stone and Cann. Brandon's Patten wins the ball back from Cheal and surges forwards down the left flank, keeping hold of the ball in the corner gives a chance for players to get up in support, one of those is Slater who receives the ball on the edge of the box, takes on the shot, takes a knick of a Wymondham leg taking the pace off the ball rolls through into Hamilton-Rout's gloves.

   Cheal bringing the ball into the Brandon half again passes it out to the left with Wiseman seeing space onto the ball she pushes on to the byline before whipping a high cross looping up into the area, a difficult one of the keeper to deal with in danger of dropping under her crossbar Oderbrecht has Sally Hammerton bearing down on her by keeps her eyes on the ball is distracted firmly claiming the ball. The final ball isn't going Wymondham's way this afternoon, Brandon finding a 2nd wind have plenty back to read and intercept. Wymondham put Sanders back on the pitch in an attacking role with Sally Hammerton coming off.

  Forshaw picking up the ball in the centre takes it forwards looking to push for the box over runs the ball, Stillinger racing to help her goes after it even as Tarrant comes the other way to clear it a 50/50 both sliding in the ball pops out to the left, Stillinger is up quicker shifts the ball between her feet but slices the shot swinging it away from goal. 

  Cheal with the space to run into offers the attackers in front of her an extra option is put on the ball as she races into the area wide left of goal Marshall throws herself into the sliding tackle to try and stop her, Cheal jumps to get out of the way goes over Marshall the ball runs out of play, shouts for a penalty the referee waves them away. 

   As Forshaw gets hold of the ball wide left again everyone is drawn across to the half of the pitch all except Wickens who is in acres of space on the right, Forshaw wraps her foot around the ball attempting to get it over to her, Hamilton-Rout has to get to the ball first does so conceding the corner. Swept in from the right Hamilton-Rout with bodies around her gets a fist up to punch the ball wide across the six yard box, drops favourably for Patten who hits the ball towards goal, Ayers covering the far post clears off the line.

 5 minutes left to play Talbot plays the ball up the line for Patten, a rapid turn around of the ball Patten places it neatly into the run of Forshaw inside the box left of goal, takes on the shot the keeper is beaten the ball runs across goal wide of the far post. In the closing stages of the match and it could still go either way. Holloway and Cheal link up down the left for Wymondham Holloway squaring the ball into Cheal left corner of the box squeezes a shot through the two defenders converging on her, Oderbrecht is down early and makes the save. 

   Injury time being played and Brandon find time for another quick counter attack the ball played into Torrance central out to Patten on her left send forwards for Forshaw breaking into the box whips the early shot across goal keeper beat is it in? No another narrow one rolling is wide of the post, the referee blows the final whistle and it ends goalless a fair result on the balance of play both sides would certainly have felt hard done by had they lost it by a single goal. Wymondham played with a high tempo throughout, Brandon did well to match it.

   As competitive and compelling  a game I've watched to date even though it ended in a goalless draw both sides taking a point Brandon move into 2nd on goal difference 2 points behind leaders Aylsham FC Ladies, whilst Wymondham still unbeaten this season though dropping their 1st points stay 4th 3 points back on the leaders but crucially with 2 games in hand on them all. Looks like it'll be a title race that will go all the way with all 4 sides fancying their chances of becoming champions.

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