Birmingham City Ladies 2-1 Doncaster Rovers Belles - Match Summary

FAWSL 1 - Birmingham City Ladies 2-1 Doncaster Rovers Belles

Wednesday 27th April

A midweek trip to the Autotech Stadium home of Birmingham City Ladies to watch their FAWSL 1 league game against newly promoted Doncaster Rovers Belles on Wednesday.

  A clash between the 2 sides at the bottom of the table in the early stages of the FAWSL season. A win for either would left them up into mid-table. Birmingham City Ladies have lost both of their FAWSL games so far this season away to Liverpool Ladies going down 1-0 in the opening round of fixtures then losing 2-0 at home against Manchester City Women just this past Sunday. Another home match coming just 3 days later after. 

 Birmingham City Ladies were the quietest side in terms of transfer activity over the close season, lost captain Karen Carney and goalkeeper Becky Spencer to champions Chelsea Ladies, but despite rumours linking some of their other stars and fans favourites to other clubs have retained the services them all for the 2016 season. Many tip them as a side to be struggling this season despite last season being the 1st time they haven't finished in the top half of the FAWSL table. Have plenty of young players with potential on their books and a manager in David Parker who is keen to give youth it's head. It's the lack of transfer activity that has many thinking they will struggle. Will need goalscorers were the lowest in the league last season and will need to find more this time around.

  Behind the scenes the club is strengthening in an ever evolving FAWSL, more money has come into the game which has seen some clubs move ahead of others, a new CEO Tim Andrews has come in and the club is being readied to go forwards to continue to compete in the top tier of women's football. Have signed German defender Corina Shroeder from Liverpool Ladies and recently announced another German former youth international defender Marissa Ewers will be joining the club in June.

  After a 2 season absence, Doncaster Rovers Belles are back competing in the top tier of the women's game. A tough opening fixture at home to Champions Chelsea Ladies in the opening round of FAWSL fixtures, had faced them only 4 days before in the 5th round of the FA Women's Cup again at the Keepmoat losing 4-1. Was the same scoreline in the league fixture, a 4-1 loss and it would be a month before they would play another league game such is the FAWSL fixture scheduling. Still a chance to work on a few thing's and get a few injured players back to fitness.

   Another club who is working hard behind the scenes to see it continues to develop and get stronger a remain competitive going forwards in the FAWSL, full time professional contracts and a new training base all coming as a result of achieving promotion at the end of last season. Brought several new players in and experienced ones to. Suffered a huge set back as Courtney Sweetman-Kirk the FAWSL's top scorer last season suffered a fractured leg in friendly match and will be out for some time. A blow for not only the club and it's supporters but for the player herself who was keen to test herself in the top flight this season.

Match Summary

  1st look at Birmingham City Ladies this season and a change of note at the back for this game with last season's centre back paring Aoife Mannion and Kerys Harrop playing in the full back positions with new captain Emily Westwood along side Remi Allen in the middle of the defence. Doncaster Rovers Belles have new signings Carla Humphrey and Icelandic International Katrin Omarsdottir fit and in the starting line-up.

  Birmingham start brightly getting the ball forwards for Charlie Wellings and Freda Ayisi to chase, goalkeeper Nicola Hobbs then captain Leandra Little deal with both threats inside the Doncaster box. 

  GOAL! An early lead for Doncaster the goal coming from a free kick awarded with on the left just inside the Birmingham half, Alex Gummer to play the ball into those gather on the edge of the box. Little goes up for it but landing behind her Birmingham try to clear players all round it pings back and forth between the two sides before popping up nicely for Natasha Dowie to hit on the volley and sent the ball arrowing into the back of the net to score her 1st competitive goal for the club. 1-1.

Natasha Dowie centre of picture on the ball for Doncaster Rovers Belles

  Jess Sigsworth almost doubles the lead moments later coming in from the right shoots putting the ball wide. Sigsworth is causing problems for Birmingham on the right, looking to take players on with the ball at her feet, Dowie and Omarsdottir breaking from midfield trying to get themselves available for the pass. Birmingham when they get the ball back are looking to play it forwards with pace, turn the Doncaster back line early get in behind, Melissa Lawley and Jess Carter playing some good through balls in behind. 

   GOAL! Birmingham get themselves back on level terms on 15 minutes a good run from Kerys Harrop up the left side of the pitch plays the ball on into the area where Ayisi has made a great run to meet the ball with a diving head to score. 1-1.

  Birmingham are starting to get the better of the Doncaster defence getting in behind all too easily Lawley getting free seeing Hobbs close her down and block her cross/shot coming inside from the right. Before that Jo Potter puts a 20 yard free kick wide of goal. 

Melissa Lawley makes it 2-1 to Birmingham

 GOAL! On the half hour mark Birmingham have the lead. Have a free kick inside the Doncaster half Potter to put the ball in is headed out of the area falling to Chloe Peplow who sprays the ball out left to Lawley who brings the ball on before hitting it low and hard the ball striking the post before going in to make it 2-1. 

  Birmingham end the 1st half strongly asking Doncaster a few questions could have extended the lead, changes are already being discussed for the visitors before the half-time whistle blows and Emily Simpkins and Rhiannon Roberts are told to get ready for the 2nd half.

  A over haul of the back line for Doncaster at the start of the 2nd half off come left back Gummer and Sam Tierney with Roberts joining Little at centre back, Simpkins going to right back with Sophie Barker moving to the opposite side. Jade Moore comes on for Birmingham with Westwood having taken a knock late in the 1st half.

Birmingham's Chloe Peplow fights for the ball with Doncaster's
 Kasia Lipka and Katrin Omarsdottir

  Ayisi's a battler, a combative player not afraid to put herself about and she is ruffling a few Doncaster feathers. Simpkins is busy early in the 2nd half, neutralises a few Birmingham attacks, although they are still coming the home side isn't getting in behind quite so much 2nd half. Doncaster have stiffened thing's up at the back but that has also seen their attacking players getting less of the ball. 

   Simpkins and Roberts both put the block in inside the box to stop shots from outside the area, Roberts getting floored by one in the face from Ayisi. Up the other end Sigsworth puts in a dangerous ball that goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley parries away just in time with Dowie charging in. Sigsworth involved again on the right links up with Omarsdottir inside the box lays it out to Lipka, puts Omarsdottir free on the right side a great across dissecting the six yard box again Dowie is just short of a good connection with the ball. 

  Tempers flare up players coming together firebrands on both sides the usual suspects involved. Easton and Potter receive yellow cards. Abbey-Leigh Stringer is brought on for Birmingham, Wellings off late in the game. The chances are few and far between, Birmingham seeing the game out to win 2-1 and claim their 1st 3 point haul of the season, leaving Doncaster as the only side without a point after 2 played in FAWSL 1.

  Birmingham City Ladies starting XI - Sophie Baggaley, Aoife Mannion, Kerys Harrop, Emily Westwood (C) Remi Allen, Chloe Peplow, Jo Potter, Jess Carter, Melissa Lawley, Charlie Wellings & Freda Ayisi.

  subs- Abbey-Leigh Stringer, Jade Moore, Sian Johnson, Ashlee Brown, Cheryl Edwards, Keeley Davies & Ellie Brazil.

  Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI - Nicola Hobbs, Alex Gummer, Sophie Barker, Samantha Tierney, Leandra Little (C), Becky Easton, Kasia Lipka, Katrin Omarsdottir, Carla Humphrey, Jess Sigsworth & Natasha Dowie.

  subs - Anna Moorhouse, Emily Simpkins, Rhiannon Roberts, Yasmin Mosby & Rachel Newborough.

  

Cup Final Report - Cambridge United WFC v Great Shelford Ladies

   Trip to Histon FC this Thursday evening to watch the final of the Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup Final sponsored by S-Tech Insurance between Cambridge United WFC and Great Shelford Ladies.

  Something of a regular fixture these days as the 2 leading sides in women's football in Cambridgeshire contest the final for the 4th consecutive season, Cambridge United WFC, (or Cambridge WFC as they were previously) winning the trophy on each occasion. A rearranged final having been originally scheduled for 2 weeks ago, heavy rain before the match left standing water on the pitch and unsafe travelling conditions led to the match being unfortunately called off.

Road to the Final

  Contrasting season's for both sides, Cambridge United WFC had a poor start to the season failing to pick up a win and going out of the FA Women's Cup, turned thing's around going on an 8 match unbeaten run to climb up the FAWPL South east Division One table have finished top half with their best points haul in the league. Defending the Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup entered the competition in the 2nd Round a home win was awarded against opponents Fulbourn Bluebirds. 

  Were on the road in the quarter finals away to Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership side Newmarket Town Ladies, played at Newmarket Town FC, Cambridge United WFC were far too strong on the day winning the game 9-0. On the the semi-finals and a good test as they were drawn against Cambridge City Ladies young guns hoping to win the Premiership title in their 1st season at that level. Cambridge United WFC won the game 6-2 to reach the final once again.

  Playing in the league below Cambridge United WFC, in the ERWFL Premier Division it has been a tough season for Great Shelford Ladies have been near the bottom of the table all season unable to get a decent run of games in in a stop start season, as they look to bring in a few younger players to build for the future.

   Were away to Cambridgeshire Women's Championship North side March Town United Ladies in the 2nd Round won the game 4-1 to make the quarter finals and a home draw against Premiership side Bar Hill Ladies. Won the game 5-1 to advance through to the semi-finals. Faced another Premiership side away from home with title ambitions ICA Sports Ladies who had beaten higher league opponents in the quarter finals knocking out Riverside Rovers Ladies in a penalty shoot out. No upset this time around with Great Shelford Ladies winning 3-1 to set up another final with Cambridge.

  The venue Histon FC just off the A14, a good sized non-league stadium with great facilities a large main seated stand overlooking the dugouts, A bar situated at the back. Hot and col refreshments below. Covered stands all around which was just as well as the weather although dry at the start of the game was going to get very wet later, dark clouds filling the sky the wind starting to pick up as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

Cambridge United WFC starting XI - Verity Crook, Emma Jenkins, Lucy Du Plooy, Laura Bright (C), Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Laura Baker, Hannah Goodchild, Laura Mills, Becky Taylor, Faith Hewitt & Paige Logie.
subs - Tahnee Perfect, Carrie Bennett, Isabella Simmons, Monique Christian & Nicola Geoghan.

Great Shelford Ladies starting XI - Laura Gilbey (C), Katie Sims, Katie Webb, Cindy Ponder, Claire Creek, Sophie Lanham, Alison Wright, Jordanne Sillitoe, Sophie Hopkin, Kate Saunders & Rachael Pearce
subs - Natalie Shenton, Abigail Davies, Claire Andrews, Sophie Ugur & Chloe Houston.

 (roll on roll off substitutes)

   It's Great Shelford to kick off the 1st half of the final wearing claret shirts with sky blue sides and sleeves against Cambridge lined up opposite wearing amber and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and amber socks. Jordanne Sillitoe is on the ball early played in down the right wing, driving forwards is stopped by Cambridge's Lucy Du Plooy at left back. 

Winning a free kick on half-way a chance for Great Shelford to play it long into the Cambridge area, Cindy Ponder to put the ball in, goes into the box bouncing Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook calls for it and claims. 

  Emma Jenkins is released into space on the right as Cambridge go forwards, Faith Hewitt putting her in to attack, bringing the ball on whips in an early cross long across the Great Shelford box, were Becky Taylor who previously played for Great Shelford is racing in, can't quite get there to turn the ball home as it runs out of play for a goal kick. On the right side again Laura Mills carries the ball down the flank squaring a cross in towards Paige Logie coming over to receive the ball inside the box, lays it back to the face of the area with Laura Baker running in meets it hitting the shot 1st time sees her effort run wide across the goal.

  Cambridge win a free kick on the left side inside the Great Shelford half the ball played high into the box is sent back out Cambridge get hold of it a strike from distance comes in, goes high and wide, a corner kick is signalled the ball taking a deflection on the way out. Mills on corner duty plays the ball into the centre of the box, Great Shelford's Alison Wright rises to head the ball away.

 Cambridge are finding space for their wide players to attack have the Great Shelford defence back tracking, Ponder and fellow centre back Claire Creek are dealing with most thing's flung into the so far. In the centre Wright get's her foot on the ball and carries it forwards a surge into the Cambridge area, captain Laura Bright gets across to put in the tackle and win the ball putting it out for a corner kick. Played long from the left goes over everyone gathered inside the six yard box out for a goal kick. 

  The wind has been getting stronger and in comes the rain as it starts to fall Baker nods the ball forwards in the midfield getting free plays the ball out to Mills wide right, driving up the pitch cuts back inside trying to take the ball beyond Ponder into the area to shoot the central defender stands firm winning the ball. Taylor coming forwards into the Great Shelford half sends the ball over the top with Mills racing forwards ahead of her meets the dropping ball on the volley drives wide.

  GOAL! 25 minutes into the 1st half the chances have been building for Cambridge as the open the scoring, the ball is played forwards from midfield into the area, bouncing as it comes in Mills is looking to get onto the end of it, comes through to goalkeeper and captain Laura Gilbey, inside her six yard box under challenge manages to pluck it out of the air but drops it as she falls to the ground, the ball spilling out to the left, Baker is up with her and getting onto the end of the ball taps it home 1-0.

  The Great Shelford defence breached Cambridge keep coming a powerful run from Logie moving into space on the right, turns and plays the ball across the face of the Great Shelford box Hewitt gets her foot over the shot to turn it towards goal, runs straight through to the gloves of Gilbey. A mazy run from Mills on the ball sees her come inside her shot from outside the box charged down by Ponder. 

  Great Shelford's attackers haven't had much opportunity to link up 1st half getting hold of the ball inside the Cambridge half, Katie Saunders plays the ball out to Rachael Pearce on the left pushes on then looks to put the ball square into Sophie Hopkin coming through the middle can't quite take the ball on as it just evades her allowing Cambridge the chance to clear. Double change for Cambridge, Isabella Simmons and Tahnee Perfect coming on for Hewitt and Goodchild. 

  Wright is up inside the Cambridge box for a free kick sent in from halfway pulls away right trying to bring the ball down with defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt on her, squeezes a shot away, too many bodies to get through, takes a deflection sending it behind for the corner. Comes in central Crook comes and claims unchallenged. Again Wright is brought down as she tries to carry the ball forwards through the middle of the park, 30 yards out Sophie Lanham takes this one goes for goal gets the ball past the wall, runs wide of goal.

  Taylor attacks up the left for Cambridge pushing on has Logie available inside the box coming out towards the ball, Taylor plays it into her Logie hits the shot on the turn looking to put the ball high into the back of the net, Gilbey has come to close her down gets her gloves on the ball to push it out of her area. 

  Late on in the 1st half, Hopkin gets free into space on the right a chance to take the ball on into the Cambridge box, entering the area evades Bright and shoots, coming across to cover her central defensive partner Burt makes a great block to deny the goal scoring opportunity. Change for Great Shelford late on too Lanham coming off and Sophie Ugur coming on.

Half-time Cambridge United WFC 1-0 Great Shelford Ladies

   Cambridge lead one nil at the break, Laura Baker with the goal. A slender lead, they have had plenty of attacks, getting down the wings and could have had more. Great Shelford will be happy to have kept the scoreline down have worked hard to defend found it difficult to pose a threat up the other end. Cambridge get the 2nd half underway.

  Sillitoe has been looking to take on players every time she has the ball at her feet get's fouled by Du Plooy this time free kick awarded wide right around 25 yards out. Saunders is over the ball, plays in a great delivery towards the far post Great Shelford have two runners coming in, the ball lands favourably for the defender in between them and the ball is headed away. 

  Simmons has been lively in attack for Cambridge since coming on 1st half, seeing shots blocked from outside the area. The ball is played into her in a central position this time from the left side, going for the shot the ball takes a wicked deflection spinning away for a corner kick. Put in to the plays coming to attack the near post is met by a Cambridge head the ball turned across goal goes over the crossbar.

 Bright is booked as she fouls Wright halfway inside the Cambridge half, the ball is played high into the Cambridge area, calls for hand ball as the ball drops for Burt then runs out of play, the crowd and Great Shelford bench have a better angle to see it than the referee on the other side of the play who awards a goal kick. 

  A shot from Taylor coming into the box from the left following good play between Simmons and Logie in front of the Great Shelford area rolling the ball into Taylor's path she shoots the ball held by Gilbey. Perfect coming forwards lays the ball into Mills out on the right sends the cross in to the area, Taylor the target, Ponder gets her head on it 1st behind for a corner.

Paige Logie

  GOAL! Mills to take the corner plays it in to the near post area the ball is headed away by Great Shelford outside the box Cambridge retrieve play the ball back out to Mills who stands the ball up into the area, near side again the ball is met by Simmons headed on into the six yard box where it is met by Logie who heads home from close range to make it 2-0.

   Great Shelford make a double change Chloe Houston and Abigail Davies coming on for Hopkin and Katie Sims who is struggling with an earlier knock. Carrie Bennett comes on for Du Plooy for Cambridge.

Laura Baker scoring
twice in the final

  GOAL! Cambridge extend their lead as they get bodies forwards have Taylor on the ball surges down the left wing, looking to get around the player in front of her and turn into the area, doing so squares the ball along the face of the box with Baker timing her run to perfection hitting the shot 1st time angles low and accurate inside the post squeezing past the diving keeper. 3-0.

 Cambridge corner on the right the ball put high into the box Gilbey jumps to catch it looses it as she is knocked to the ground, Logie gets hold of the lose ball inside the six yard box, looks to smash it goalwards, Great Shelford block the ball landing for Gilbey to pull into her body, gets the decision this time around. Mills bursts into the Great Shelford area as the ball is played long, hits the shot on the run, Gilbey gets down sharply makes the save pushing the ball out to the left, Ponder is back help out and gets the ball up the field.

  Logie comes off for Cambridge as they bring on Monique Christian. Ponder comes off for Great Shelford, Andrews going back on. Cambridge win a couple of corner kicks that sees the ball headed over the cross bar then put wide of goal. As the rain starts to fall heavily across the ground, Cambridge bring off Burt and Baker send Goodchild and Hewitt back into the action. A fantastic run by Sillitoe on the ball carrying it half the length of the pitch darting inside to run at the Cambridge area, goes to shoot the ball blocked by Goodchild. 

 More changes as the game goes into the final 10 minutes, Wright and Ugur off, Lanham and Pearce return to the pitch. Simmons and Hewitt both see shots from outside the box charged down by Creek and Webb. Jenkins getting forwards has a go from further out the ball is gathered by Gilbey. Closing minutes and a touching gesture from Cambridge late on named amongst tonight's substitutes Nicola Geoghan is brought on replacing Taylor. Geoghan has unfortunately had to retire from the game having sustained a concussion early in the season and following doctors advice has decided to hang up her boot, highly thought of at the club she will be greatly missed on the field. 

  Hopkin back on for Great Shelford almost steals in behind the Cambridge defence but Crook has seen the threat and is out of her area early to close the ball down launch it clear. Last chance of the match falls of Geoghan up in attack the ball squared across the face of the area, she and Gilbey slide in for it Gilbey managing to claim the ball. That signals the end of the game and Cambridge celebrate retaining the Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup in the pouring rain. Their 1st trophy as United.

  Were the dominant side on the night created plenty of chances although Great Shelford did well to keep the scoreline down to 1-0 at half-time had few chances to score themselves. Will be hoping for better thing's next season although they won't be doing it as Great Shelford Ladies. Histon FC will be their new home as they are to become Histon Ladies adopted by the men's club helps to ensure a lasting future for the club.

Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup winners, Cambridge United WFC

 Congratulations to Cambridge United WFC  on retaining the Cambridgeshire Women's Invitation Cup once again. My thanks to Cambridgeshire FA's Chris Abbott for his help tonight.

Cup Final Report - Enfield Town Ladies v Coventry United Ladies

 This Sunday's match report the Supporting Women's Football Blog comes from Hednesford Town FC for this season FAWPL Plate Final, with Enfield Town Ladies taking on Coventry United Ladies.

  A special occasion for both sides, Enfield Town Ladies are celebrating their 30th anniversary year and this is the 1st time in their history they have reached a National Cup Final. Coventry United Ladies previously Coventry City Ladies now in partnership with Coventry United FC are into League Plate Final for the 1st time. Both sides have made it all the way to the final of the competition without conceding a goal.

Road to the Final

  Enfield Town Ladies playing their football in FAWPL South East Division One were due to play St Nicholas LFC from FAWPL South West Division One in the 1st Round of the League Plate however that fixture never happened and they were awarded a home win. In the 2nd Round were drawn away to fellow South East Division One rivals Denham United Ladies a single goal sealing the win to put them into the quarter finals where they faced a tough away trip to higher division opponents Loughborough Foxes WFC laying the FAWPL Northern Division again it was the single goal that saw the game won coming late on scored by Regan Coleman. Semi-finals and Enfield Town Ladies were back at home but again faced strong opponents from the FAWPL Northern Division again Newcastle United WFC beat them 2-0 at the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium (think she was celebrating some anniversary or another this week too) to book reach their 1st ever National Final. 

  Coventry United Ladies had an away trip to Maidenhead United Ladies in the FAWPL Plate 1st Round, newly promoted to the South West Division One, won the game 5-0 to progress to the 2nd Round away again to play South East Division One leaders and now title winners, Crystal Palace Ladies who will be joining Coventry United Ladies in the FAWPL Southern Division next season. Coventry United Ladies won the match 2-0. On to the quarter finals and at home playing Northern Division One side, Liverpool Marshalls Feds, a single goal from Helen Demody the difference as they book their place in the semi-finals and an away trip to the South West to play Keynsham Town Ladies racking up a 7-0 scoreline to reach the final. Have a mean defence not only in this competition but in the FAWPL Southern Division too conceding just 15 goals in the league to date

  

  The venue for today's FAWPL League Plate Final, Keys Park home of Hednesford Town FC hosting a cup final double, having seen the FAWPL Reserve Cup Final played between Bradford City WFC Reserves and Blackburn Rovers Ladies Reserves earlier in the day. A stand alone ground on the outskirts of the tow with business and retail centres nearby the ground is recently built boasting a good sized carpark before the main stand featuring numerous suites and a function room behind a large seated stand, covered stands all around the main and one end seated the others terraced. Hot and cold refreshments available on the day. The weather started off quite bright and sunny but grew decidedly chilly in the afternoon as kick-off for the final approached with some rain in the air. On to the match action.

  Enfield Town Ladies starting XI - Bethan Davies, Holly Brandon, Cally Browne, Claire Ford, Kerrie Marlborough, Nuala McKevitt, Elizabeth Kent, Chloe Bassett, Ayse Mustafa, Victoria Lewis & Regan Coleman (C).
  subs - Beth Demery, Sheryce Slater, Laura Elias, Alena Beganovic & Eliza Diaz.

  Coventry United Ladies starting XI - Susan Wood, Annabel Johnson, Nikki Miles, Natasha Lynch (C), Anna Wilcox, Jade Brook, Libby Piggott, Amber Hughes, Alison Hall, Marie Gauntlett & Cristina Torkildsen.
  subs - Callan Barber, Ellena Rollason, Gina Burton, Sami Ryder & Charlotte McElroy.

  Vocal support for both teams as the players line up before the final, No Ashleigh Neville or Helen Dermody in their squad, it's Coventry to get the FAWPL Plate Final underway wearing red shirts, green shorts and socks, with Enfield lining up in an all yellow kit with black across the left shoulder on their shirts, names on the back a special memento for a special occasion in the clubs history. Coventry get the ball out to Alison Hall on the left side looking to take players on gets the ball in across the face of the area, Enfield clear it. Christina Torkildsen playing up front wins a corner taking it sends the ball into the area Kerrie Marlborough gets a firm header on the ball to get it away.

  GOAL! The last thing Enfield wanted to do was concede an early goal, but they do exactly that give away a free kick right side just beyond the centre circle, Cristina Torkildsen plays the ball long towards the far post area Alison Hall meets it with her head sending the ball across the face of goal dropping at the opposite post Jade Brook is the player arriving sliding it to connect with the ball and send into the back of the net 1-0.

Jade Brook opens the scoring for Coventry United Ladies in the League Plate Final

    A set back 5 minutes played, Enfield are working hard to close Coventry down on the ball, not easy as they move it quickly. Nuala McKevitt plays the ball out to the right side picking out Chloe Bassett, pushing on to get to the corner, flashes a cross back into the box, can't pick anyone out. Free kick for Coventry inside the Enfield half in front of the centre circle captain Natasha Lynch to take sends it long with Hall giving chase, Marlborough goes with her and defends putting the ball out for a throw. 

  Lynch defends in er own box as Bassett rolls her marker on the right and pushes down the wing again squaring the ball Lynch intercepts. Enfield keep the pressure on around the box are awarded a free kick just outside the box right side corner. Marlborough puts the ball in towards the far post, Brook gets to it 1st almost sends Annabel Johnson away up the right, Ayse Mustafa back defending from the set-piece get's to her and tackling wins the ball. 

Regan Coleman on the ball for
Enfield Town Ladies

 A powerful run on the ball from Torkildsen on the right as Coventry attack sees her fire in shot from the angle rising as it flies towards goal, Enfield goalkeeper Bethan Davies throws up her gloves and tips the ball over the bar a corner awarded. The rain that fell at the start of the game has added a little extra zip to the playing surface. The game is playing at a high tempo Enfield closing Coventry down all over the pitch, a little too closely sometimes free kicks are being given away. Marking Torkildsen, Enfield's Claire Ford gives away a free kick outside the area to the left side. The ball fired into the crowded six yard area is cleared by McKivett.

  GOAL! Enfield get themselves back on level terms scoring to make it 1-1 midway through the half. Captain Regan Coleman leading the line is bundled over on the right side 20 yards out, players come forwards as Marlborough goes over to take, sends the ball out towards the far post area a trio of yellow shirts are their to attack the ball, Elizabeth Kent is amongst them the ball is sent into the back of the net and Kent leads the charge in celebration having scored in the Final. 

Scoring in a Final! Can't beat it! Elizabeth Kent races out of the Coventry area with
her Enfield team mates after making it 1-1

  Amber Hughes coming in from the right side dribbles the ball past 2 Enfield players before being fouled by Kent. Ford clears the resulting free kick. Marie Gauntlett is free in space on the left as Coventry press forwards the ball is played out to her driving on whips the cross into the box, too close to Davies the keeper grabs hold of the ball. Up the other end Coventry goalkeeper Susan Wood does the same claiming an Enfield cross from Bassett as she links up well with Holly Brandon on the right.

Regan Coleman wins the ball against Jade Brook

    A corner to Enfield on the right, Nikki Miles defends against Bassett as Coleman knocks the ball down to her. Bassett battling to get a cross in puts in a dangerous ball in central on the goal line Wood is under pressure players all around her manages to get a fist on the ball tip it over her crossbar. The 2nd corner from the left is headed wide by Ford at the near post. The rain has started to fall heavily again. Torkildsen wins Coventry a free kick left side of the Enfield area taking it her delivery his initially cleared by Ford falling outside the area the ball is sent back in Davies punches it behind for a corner kick. Get's her gloves on the ball again to punch the corner out of her area the ball runs out to Hughes 20 yards out, looks to curl a shot into the top corner, flies a yard over the crossbar. 

  An enthusiastic crowd are getting behind both sides, seeing challenges coming in and not happy with some referring decisions. Lynch does well up against Victoria Lewis as Cally Browne looks to play the ball forwards down the left side getting in front of the ball and Lewis as the ball travels into the box, allows Wood the chance to come sliding in and claim the ball. 

  GOAL! Blow for Enfield right on the stroke of half-time as Coventry get themselves back in front. Coventry stretch the play from right to left across the Enfield area, Torkildsen holding the ball up before sending a great ball out to Miles on the left, picking it up she drives to the byline before squaring the ball across the front of the Enfield goal. Again there is a player sliding in for Coventry this time it's Piggott throwing herself at the ball inside the six yard box to turn it into the back of the net 1-2.
    

Half-time Enfield Town Ladies 2-1 Coventry United Ladies

  A blow for Enfield Town Ladies conceding a goal right at the end of the 1st half, have battled hard, over zealous at times, but having gotten back into the match it is unfortunate to go into the dressing room behind. Coventry have dealt with Enfield on the large part fairly well not getting caught up in the physical battle, looking to spread the play get players forwards from all parts of the pitch. Enfield get the 2nd half underway.

   The physical battle resumes and the ball is hotly contested in the middle, both Coleman and Torkildsen getting drawn back to help their midfielders win the ball. The ball comes to Lewis on the left for Enfield whips a ball into the area from the right with Coleman providing the run, can't quite connect with the ball as it flashes across her path. Hughes plays Torkildsen in as she finds room in behind on the right taking the ball down to the byline, Mustafa makes up the ground to track back and sliding in puts the ball out for a corner.

  GOAL! 3 minutes into the 2nd half and Coventry extend their lead scoring from the corner kick put in from the right, what happens next causes a great deal of confusion amongst the watching crowd. *amended* Is a great delivery by Torkildsen the ball whipped  in central close to goal bodies all around the ball is attacked turned towards goal falling back Ford appears to throw up a hand to stop the ball keep it out, silence falls the crowd caught by surprise when the referee points to the circle awarding a goal to cue some delayed cheering. Brook is credited with the final touch in the box heading the ball back over the line her 2nd goal of the match, Coventry lead 1-3.

   A chance for Enfield to pull a goal back straight away as Coleman gets hold of the ball wide left and sends a cross into the six yard box far side Bassett is arriving gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box sends the ball over the bar. Gauntlett sends Hughes through down the right, chasing forwards whips the ball towards the area, Ford cuts the cross out Lewis back to clear the loose ball.

Nuala McKevitt heads the ball away with Coventry's
Cristina Torkildsen looking to get around her

  Both crowd and both benches are getting wound up by some decisions being made by the officials, a robust 50/50 between McKevitt and Brook in the middle sees to 2 square up, is quickly broken up, but having missed the incident the referee has a word with his fellow officials and settles for a word with the two captains. Not long after Coventry's Piggott comes off 2nd best in a challenge and coming off is replaced by Callan Barber. Coventry go on the attack on the left the ball played inside 20 yards out to Gauntlett is clipped as she knocks the ball on the advantage played as the ball comes to Brook just outside the D, smashes a low shot wide of goal. Play is stopped so Gauntlett can receive treatment.

Kerrie Marlborough heads the ball clear of her area for Enfield Town Ladies

  Enfield make a change bringing on Alena Beganovic for Lewis. Anna Wilcox bombs forwards from centre back for Coventry racing over halfway looks to play the ball on release Torkildsen offering the run through the middle, almost picks her out as she bursts into the area can't bring the ball under control her touch taking it on to Davies who claims the ball. Coventry are enjoying more possession as the 2nd half goes on Enfield attacks limited, Gauntlett puts the ball into Johnson just inside the area, looks to shoot, McKevitt back defending blocks the ball is deflected towards goal high at the far post Hall fouls as she climbs on the back of a defender trying to head the ball down. Enfield make a 2nd change taking off Browne and bringing on Beth Demery as they look to go 3 at the back and try to get more bodies forwards find a goal. 

  GOAL! The goal however comes at the other end as Coventry take a 4-1 A pacey counter attack stretch Enfield as Torkildsen sends Hughes away into space down the right, taking the ball all the way to the byline cuts the cross back into the six yard box with Gauntlett closing in. The ball looks to have just evaded her, but Gauntlett adjusts well to back heels the ball turn it back across goal, Davies throws own a leg to try and stop the ball gets a touch but not enough to take it around the far post as it rolls over the line.

  Coventry bring Brook off, who was yellow carded earlier and send on Gina Burton. Marlborough comes off for Enfield too with Sheryce Slater entering the action. 

  GOAL! Having gotten one goal, Gauntlett goes and makes it a quick fire double as both sides adjust with substitutions just being made the ball is put up towards Gauntlett 25 yards out right of the area, hits the ball high into the air lobbing the keeper as the ball sails over her and drops into the back of the net 1-5.

  Good defending from Ford for Enfield going with Gauntlett into the area as she looks to make it a quick fire hat-trick, gets a toe to the ball to get it back to Davis cleared out to the middle a shot comes straight back in the ball deflected wide for a corner. Final change for Coventry as Hughes is rested and Ellena Rollason before the corner is taken. The set-piece is put in from the right side, Miles rises highest in the box heads the ball wide. Late into the game Johnson still has the energy to get forwards sends a looping cross out to the far side with Rollason there to meet it puts her header behind goal.

  The final whistle blows and Coventry United Ladies celebrate winning the FAWPL Plate Final beating Enfield Town Ladies 5-1. Were made to work for the victory but in the end their quality told two goals scored either side of the break putting them in control of the game adding 2 goals late on as Enfield tired 2nd half having put so much effort into the game. Battled hard getting a goal but as the final wore on chances up the other end dried up.

Coventry United Ladies, celebrating winning the FAWPL Plate Final

  Congratulations to Coventry United Ladies on winning the FAWPL Plate.

  FAWPL Reserve Cup Final

  As I mentioned at the top of this match report it was a Cup Final double at Keys Park today with the FAWPL Reserve Cup Final also taking place earlier an 11 o'clock kick off between Bradford City WFC Reserves and Blackburn Rovers Ladies. 

   The two sides were evenly matches in the earlier stages of the final, played at a rapid tempo, Blackburn were slowly growing stronger finding more opportunities to attack get down the flanks, Emily Hockenhull opening the scoring heading the ball past the goalkeeper. Striker Leah Foster making it 2-0 shooting from a wide position inside the area Hockenhull playing her  and putting the ball into the back of the net. Another powerful run to the right from Foster late in the 1st half sees her score from a tight angle rifling the ball home. 

Scoring 4 goals in the Reserve Cup Final
Leah Foster receives the Player of the Match
award

  Leading 3-0 at half-time looked a tough task for Bradford to get back into the game then they lost Laura Gadd to injury and with no more substitutes to bring on had to play most of the 2nd half with 10 players not long after Foster completed her hat-trick closing down the keeper to score inside the box straight from the restart Blackburn score a 5th and t's a 4th for Foster shooting from outside the box. Hockenhull adding her 2nd goal late on to see Blackburn Rovers Ladies win the FAWPL Reserve Cup Final 6-0

Blackburn Rovers Ladies Reserves, FAWPL Reserve Cup Winners

 Congratulations to Blackburn Rovers Ladies Reserves on your cup success. An entertaining finals day at Keys Park. My thanks to everyone at Hednesford Town FC for their help and hospitality today.

FAWSL 1 - Liverpool Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies

  Been a while since I've made the trip up north to Widnes, to the Select Security Stadium to watch Liverpool Ladies v Sunderland AFC Ladies in FAWSL 1.

   Has been a month since the new season of FAWSL football began and for both sides this is just their 2nd league game, with their being an international break and the semi-finals of the FA Women's Cup in between. Liverpool Ladies have played a friendly fixture beating Sheffield FC Ladies last Sunday whilst Sunderland AFC Ladies had a weekend to forget losing 7-0 at Arsenal Ladies in the FA Women's Cup.

   A new chapter for Liverpool Ladies this season the 2 times title winners finishing down in 7th place last season have seen alot of changes. Matt Beard has left as manager to take up a new role in the USA with Boston Breakers. His former assistant stepping up into the role as first team manager. Has had to over see a large player turn around, looked ominous at the start of the close season as the club saw a host of first team favourites move in to new challenges, goalkeeper Libby Stout joining Beard at Boston Breakers. Corina Schroeder, Natasha Dowie, Becky Easton, Katrin Omarsdottir, Fara Williams and Assiat Oshoala amongst those leaving.

  A complete turn around in what has become a traumatic FAWSL transfer window for fans in recent seasons in the women's game as the club recruited just a heavily. Siobhan Chamberlain coming in to replace Stout. Welsh International, Sophie Ingle who had excelled at Bristol as captain joined along with Scottish International Caroline Weir. Laura Coombs joins on a season long loan from Chelsea. Alex Greenwood comes to Liverpool Ladies after a season with Notts County Ladies. Dutch stars Shanice Van De Sandon and defender Mandy Van Den Berg along with Swedish striker Emma Lundh have also been signed with another Welsh International and fans favourite Natasha Harding coming in after spending last season with Manchester City Women. A lot of new faces to get used to a short season (well in terms of games, not months) to do it in. Started with a win at home beating Birmingham City Ladies 1-0 Van Den Sandon scoring on her debut.

  Covered the in's and out's at Sunderland Ladies in the match report from their opening FAWSL match back in March where they started their league campaign with a 1-1 draw with newly promoted Reading FC Women. Travelled to Borehamwood last Sunday to play Arsenal Ladies who led at the break but were a player down after Emma Mitchell was sent off, Arsenal went on to score again before Sunderland too were reduced to 10 Abby Holmes red carded. Arsenal took full control hitting Sunderland for 7 winning 7-0. Changes in the starting line up by manager Charlton Fairweather for today's match, Hilde Gunn Olsen replacing Rachael Laws in goal, Stephanie Roche and Hayley Sharp also come in.

  For various reasons I didn't manage to get up to see a game at the Select Security Stadium last season, is the home of both Liverpool and Everton Ladies. Also the Widnes Vikings Rugby League team a large stadium with top class facilities. Not a fan of the playing surface but then there aren't many artificial surfaces I do like when I watch so many games on grass and despair at the lack of life the surface has in it. Finally though it looks as though the summer league maybe getting the weather it deserves was a bright and sunny evening for a 5:30pm kick off.

  Liverpool Ladies starting XI - Siobhan Chamberlain, Martha Harris, Natasha Harding, Mandy Van Den Berg, Gemma Bonner C), Sophie Ingle, Kate Longhurst, Laura Coombs, Caroline Weir, Shanice Van De Sanden & Emma Lundh.
  subs - Danielle Gibbons, Rosie White, Niamh Charles, Katie Zelem, Mollie Green, Mayumi Pacheco & Ashley Hodson.

  Sunderland AFC Ladies starting XI - Hilde Gunn Olsen, Kylla Sjoman, Megan Beer, Stephanie Bannon (C), Hayley Sharp, Rachel Furness, Lucy Staniforth, Brooke Chaplin, Krystle Johnston, Stephanie Roche & Beth Mead.
  subs - Rachael Laws, Keira Ramshaw, Kelly McDougall, Abbey Joice, Danielle Brown & Madeleine Hill.

  Late change for Sunderland with Megan Beer replacing Victoria Williams in the starting line-up. Satara Murray and new signing Alex Greenwood were out for Liverpool which saw Natasha Harding at left back. It's Sunderland to kick off the match wearing their very bright all green away kit against Liverpool lined up opposite in their traditional red kit. Liverpool get hold of the ball quickly and spreading play up the left Harding forwards into Caroline Weir who tries tries to carry it inside towards the box squeezes the ball through the Sunderland defence runs through to the glove of goalkeeper Hilde Gunn Olsen.

  Both sides are happy to try and spread the play across the pitch early on, Sunderland attack the ball with Krystle Johnston on the right comes all the way over to Stephanie Roche wide left inside the final third puts the ball into Mead edge of the area but she is closely marked by Liverpool captain Gemma Bonner. Mead gets herself up against Mandy Van Den Berg this time around as Roche plays the ball into the area, Van Den Berg ahead of her is Siobhan Chamberlain for the back pass the gap between them closing doesn't risk it plays a risky ball across the six yard box in front of goal, Harding is there and get's the ball away before Brooke Chaplin can react the counter attack is on the ball coming quickly up to Laura Coombs edge of the Sunderland area her shot is blocked. 

  Bringing the ball on into the Liverpool half, Chaplin produces a got long range pass to pick out Johnston free on the right side pulls the trigger 20 yards out fires the ball straight into the gloves of Chamberlain across covering that side of her goal. Hayley Sharp does well in defence for Sunderland cutting out a ball from the left side the target Shanice Van De Sandon outside the box. Free kick for Sunderland as Roche is fouled on the left half way inside the Liverpool half Lucy Staniforth over the ball flights it into the crowd gathered along the face of the area, Bonner rises highest and heads clear. 

  Fantastic save from Chamberlain from a Mead shot as Sunderland fire the ball up to her 25 yards out has shaken off her marker meeting the ball on the volley gets great contact with the ball on target threatening to go in under the crossbar, Chamberlain tips it up and over the cross bar for a corner kick. The corner played in from the right is a good one central into the six yard is met by Rachel Furness who drills her header wide.

  Martha Harris is playing right back for Liverpool up against Roche with mead often drawn to this side too she is doing well defensively and bringing the ball forwards linking up with Emma Lundh and Coombs right side her 1st cross is charged down, gets the ball back puts this cross out of play. Bringing the ball out from the back Bonner goes long drops for Lundh then comes to Weir 20 yards out left side of the D, shoots slicing the ball wide of goal.

  GOAL! 17 minutes on the clock and Liverpool take the lead a long range pass that picks out Van De Sandon making a superb run into the area from the left in behind the Sunderland defence goes to shoot across Gunn Olsen beating the keeper the shot smashes against the far post rebounding out straight into the path of the Weir closing in and she hits the ball into the back of the net 1-0.

Caroline Weir scorer of Liverpool Ladies opening goal on the ball

   A chance straight away from the restart for Sunderland to level things up as Mead on the ball powers her way forwards refusing to be knocked off the all left of the area, sees Johnston free in space to the right gets the ball the 1st time strike is on, caught in two minds the hesitation gives Liverpool a chance to get bodies back and when the shot does eventually come inside the box it his charged down. Staniforth down the left channel for Mead to chase getting it on the byline, has support from full back Kylla Sjoman giving her the ball her cross is long to the far post no one to meet it. Harding bringing the ball on looks to pick out Lundh making a run to get into the area right side, Sunderland captain Stephanie Bannon puts the ball out for a corner kick. Cleared at the near post the ball is collected by Kate Longhurst who looks to play it back into the the area Gunn Olsen collects.

  GOAL! 6 minutes after going ahead Liverpool double their lead, again it's Van De Sandon a constant threat on the right who does the damage as the ball is sent up by Weir into the Sunderland area Gunn Olsen coming out to that side of her area goes down in front of Van De Sandon gets her gloves on the ball but spills it Van De Sandon has it beyond her goes to shot near post even as a trio of Sunderland players try to get back in amongst them is Coombs and even as they attempt to clear their lines Coombs gets something on the ball and it is put over the line 2-0.

  Two goals conceded quickly has rattled Sunderland an inquest taking place on the pitch, Liverpool have capitalised on a good spell of play and are looking to go forwards again Harris long into Coombs right side puts the cross into the box Megan Beer gets it away. Again Liverpool make the mistake of giving mead time and space on the ball 25 yards out not afraid to shoot swerving and dipping late on the shot goes wide of Chamberlain's goal.

  GOAL! Sunderland get themselves back into the match pulling a goal back just after the half hour mark out of nothing. A free kick wide left Sjoman delivers it into the area, Chaplin is the furthest Sunderland player forwards, Van Den Berg looks to have it under control heading the ball knocks it up into the air dropping at the edge of the six yard box it's Chaplin who reacts heading the dropping ball down into the ground it rolls across the flat footed Liverpool defence and finds the back of the net 2-1.

Sunderland's Kylla Sjoman

  The goal has given Sunderland new life, Liverpool looked to have been in full control until then. Staniforth puts the pass on into Roche's feet looks to roll Mead on into the box the ball is cleared comes out to Johnston coming in from the right shoots the shot charged down at close quarters again. Play is stopped then as Sjoman goes down for Sunderland on her own the ball coming out to her goes for it then pulls up looks like a knee injury is in alot of pain and as the stretcher is called for sadly her game is over and she is substituted Danielle Brown coming goes to right back with Beer coming over to the left. This sees 6 minutes injury time to be added. 

  A great tackle by Bonner on Chaplin as Sunderland threaten to break clear. Chaplin and Mead try to combine in the left corner Mead going after and holding up the ball rolls it up the line to Chaplin, who looks to pick out Mead again play is stopped as Mead is caught offside. Late into injury time 1st half and Lundh heads on a Chamberlain kick out to Van De Sandon on the right her cross is long to the far post Weir running in can't get to it as it runs out of play. 

Half-time Liverpool Ladies 2-1 Sunderland AFC Ladies

  A good 1st half both sides looking to use the whole pitch, Liverpool looked in good shape going 2-0 up had Sunderland on the ropes briefly but conceded a soft goal to get the away side back back into the game. Liverpool to kick off the 2nd half. An early corner kick for Sunderland as Mead plays the ball across the area for Chaplin on the right side closing down Chamberlain the keeper slices her kick behind for the corner. The delivery is played out to the far post area inside the six yard box Sharp and Bonner go up together, the Sunderland defender heading the ball against Bonner's shoulder it drops to the ground and is pounced up by Chamberlain.

   Sunderland have started the 2nd half well pushing forwards the ball from Staniforth picks out Johnston on the right side puts a fantastic cross into the area running along the six yard line Chaplin is there, so too Bonner the Liverpool captain putting in a quality tackle to win and retain possession of the ball, trapping it then Van De Berg launches it clear. Longhurst coming inside from the from the left plays the ball long into the box for Van De Sandon can't quite take the ball into her stride, nevertheless wins her side a corner kick. Send in low the ball squeezes through the bodies gathered near post, Sunderland get it out comes to Longhurst outside the box blazes her shot high. 

Sunderland's Beth Mead being closely marked by Liverpool's Mandy Van Den Berg

  Change for Liverpool with Katie Zelem joining the action with Coombs the player coming off. Liverpool have the ball wide right Van De Sandon putting the cross in close to goal goes over Gunn Olsen, has Brown behind her the defender heading the ball away from danger. A corner to Liverpool on the left taken short by Zelem to Harding up the line she returns the ball to Zelem moving towards the Sunderland area goes to shot plants the ball wide into the side netting.

  GOAL! 15 minutes into the 2nd half and Sunderland pull the scores level. Play is switched out to the right from midfield into Johnston who plays in another great cross into the area far post area Bonner and Mead going up for it Mead ends up on the floor, the ball runs through to Roche who goes for the shot back across goal is cleared off the line by Van Den Berg, but rolls straight out to Chaplin charging into the area and hitting it hard buries it into the goal 2-2.

2 goals for Sunderland's Brooke Chaplin

   Corner for Liverpool, Zelem plays the ball high into the six yard box, Bannon is under it and firmly headers clear. Play is up the other end rapidly Staniforth onto Johnston right the cross sent long again Harris heading it away before Roche can get interested this time. Niamh Charles comes on for Liverpool to make her debut with Lundh the player coming off whilst Longhurst receives treatment. Strong defending from Van Den Berg up against Mead as the pair run into the area gets the ball back to Chamberlain for her to kick clear. 

  Sharp is having a very good game for Sunderland in the heart of their defence gets her head on the ball as Longhurst spreads play out to the right Van De Sandon heading the ball into the middle of the area, Sharp to it 1st. 2nd change for Sunderland Keira Ramshaw coming on for for Johnston who has just received a knock and hobbles off the pitch. Chaplin gets the ball from Roche on the left coming inside 20 yards out shoots puts the ball wide across the Liverpool area. 

  Shouts for a penalty, as Chaplin is up ended in the box. The move starting with right back Brown charging forwards for Sunderland on the ball, has done so a couple of times already, a penetrating run this time as she comes inside reaching the edge of the area Chaplin makes the run for her across and down the right of the area pointing to where the ball needs to go, Brown does just that, Van Den Berg coming across lunges in looks to take both player and ball looked a good shout but the referee's alot closer than me and it's his decision that counts not mine, a corner is given.

  Charles brings the ball on up the left channel towards the Sunderland box as Weir on her inside into the area attempts to play the ball on Sharp gets between them both and wins the ball back 10 minutes left of normal time. Liverpool are looking to apply some late pressure Zelem on the ball slides Van De Sandon through left of the area this time, Gunn Olsen comes along way again and going down trying to grab the ball at Van De Sandon's feet the Liverpool attacker gets the ball past her is wide of goal getting hold of the ball close to the byline players have gotten back for Sunderland and Bannon closest clears the ball as it comes in.

Liverpool's Emma Lundh trying to find a way through the Sunderland defence

  Weir shoots over from close range inside the six yard box left side in front of goal as Sunderland struggle to get the ball away from a cross swept in from the right pinging around drops to Weir who connects but lifts the ball to high, taking a nick off a Sunderland player the corner is given. Gunn Olsen comes amongst bodies at her near post to punch the ball, goes down hurt but the ball hasn't travelled far gets back on her goal line as Liverpool try to fire the shot in blocked it eventually runs out for a goal kick. Harris puts a shot high from a Weir knock down inside the box as Van De Sandon puts the cross in from the right. Bannon gets a ball in her face from another Liverpool cross on the left the corner given away as a result sees the ball sent long by Zelem to the far post Bonner going up for it can't quite get her head on it.

   The ball is launched up towards Mead who going up heads it high on into the area, Chamberlain does very well keeping her eye on it leaping to make a good catch under challenge from Chaplin. Into added time Mead is fouled by Bonner inside the D giving Sunderland a free kick in a dangerous area. Three players interested Furness and Staniforth give way to Chaplin who goes for goal plays the shot wide of the of the far post. 

  Full time and the points are shared with Sunderland AFC Ladies coming back from 2-0 to draw 2-2. A good contest they will certainly be pleased with the comeback especially after looking a bit shell shocked at going 2-0 down. Opposite for Liverpool who went 2-0 and lost the lead, no doubt Chaplin's 1st goal for Sunderland to pull it back to 2-1 restored their confidence and belief.

   Wishing Sunderland's Kylla Sjoman a speedy recovery fingers crossed the injury isn't too serious.