Match Report - Gillingham FC Ladies v Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  This Sunday's match on the Supporting Women's Football Blog comes from the 2nd Round of the FA Women's Premier League Cup an all South East Division One clash between Gillingham FC Ladies & Milton Keynes Dons Ladies.

  A Determining Round played at the start of the competition with the winning sides going on to contest the FAWPL Cup, the losing sides going into the FAWPL Plate.

  Gillingham FC Ladies are unbeaten in all competitions at the start of the season. Games in hand on all the sides above them in the table currently in 7th spot. Beat Southampton Saints Girls & Ladies 4-0 away from home in the Determining Round with a bye in the 1st Round now play Milton Keynes Dons Ladies 2 places above them in the league for a place in the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup. Felicity Gibbons returns to the club after spells with Brighton & Hove Albion WFC and Millwall Lionesses. Vicky Ashton-Jones and Amy Taylor who both played a large part in helping Brighton & Hove Albion WFC to the FAWPL Southern Division title last season have also come in at the start of the season.

  Milton Keynes Dons Ladies are 3 points above Gillingham in the FAWPL South East Division One table in 5th spot with 4 wins from 7 league games so far this season. Have a new manager with James Honeyman taking charge of the 1st team. Beat Luton Town Ladies away from home in the Determining Round to enter the FAWPL Cup proper had a bye in the 1st Round. Kara Howes has resigned for the club after being with WSL 2 side London Bees. Rebecca Vass, Bedford Ladies captain last season was also signed at the start of the season. 

  Gillingham FC Ladies have a new home this season, Corinthians FC. Just off the A2 through the villages of Bean and Longfield, ignoring the 'Road Closed' signs you find it just fine. In the countryside a picturesque setting you come to the Corinthian Sports Club a multi-purpose sports facility with a farmyard beyond, which you'll end up in if you follow the Sat Nav, however there is a gate which I suspect is unlocked on most match days at that end. A large clubhouse with a bar upstairs refreshments hot and cold available. The ground itself is very nice a small seated stand behind one goal plus a small stand on one side. More seating in front of the building housing the changing rooms in on corner overlooking a large pitch, plenty of width on this on, not the flattest but in great condition nevertheless. A bright sunny day clouds dotted around but a warm afternoon, will enjoy them whilst they last.

 Gillingham FC Ladies starting XI - Katie Startup, Ellie Manning, Grace Seely, Charlie Thurston, Vicky Ashton-Jones, Rachel Ahern, Jade Keogh (C), Katie Hardaker, April Bowers, Harriett Chapman & Felicity Gibbons.
 subs - Courtney Shanly, Bethany Nugent & Kallie Balfour.

 Milton Keynes Don Ladies starting XI - Emma Kirby, Kara Howes, Samantha Gillings, Leanne Doyle, Vicky Holland, Charley Clark (C), Heather McDonnell, Charly Wright, Hannah Barrett, Leah Cudone & Rebecca Vass. 
 subs - Anna Loftus & Louise Naylor.

  Gillingham FC Ladies were without a few 1st team regulars but do have a large squad of players to draw from and with the games already building up the squad will be needed although absences and injuries see only 3 named on the bench, one of those goalkeeper Courtney Shanly with Katie Startup recently returned from Jordan having represented England Lionesses side in the U17s World Cup starting between the sticks. Milton Keynes Dons Ladies name a strong starting XI but a light on the bench with just the 2 substitutes to call upon. It's the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Milton Keynes Dons Ladies kitted out in red shirts and shorts with a black and white band down the sides, along with red socks with a black and white band. Gillingham lined up opposite wearing blue shirts with a vertical white stripe down the right, blues shorts with a white bands around the left leg and white socks with blue at the top.

  From kick-off, Milton Keynes look to get the ball out to Leah Cudone on the right bringing the ball down looks to knock it past Gillingham's Ellie Manning, the full back gets a foot in to win the ball, plays it in field into Katie Hardaker through the middle up to Felicity Gibbons leading the line holding the ball up has Harriett Chapman making a run on the left sends the ball out to her, Milton Keynes, Kara Howes running with her to win the ball tackles to put it out for a throw.

MK Dons Ladies, Leah Cudone tussles with Gillingham
FC Ladies, Ellie Manning for the ball

   Gillingham have started the match brightly have the ball inside the Milton Keynes half, Gibbons with the ball at her feet back to goal looks to link up with April Bowers on the right, her cross lifted up towards the penalty spot is headed clear of the area by Milton Keynes centre back Vicky Holland. Picking the ball up from half-way Gillingham captain, Jade Keogh carries it forwards rolls the pass into Bowers moving right, sends it on for Gibbons breaking into the box on the right side right of goal moving into the six yard box, looks to shoot the angle tight doesn't get a very good connection with the ball runs tamely into the gloves of Milton Keynes goalkeeper, Emma Kirby.

 

Gillingham FC Ladies
April Bowers

Milton Keynes are sitting back inviting Gillingham on to them, defending the final ball played in towards the box. Bowers is over a free-kick won in front of the centre circle after Gibbons is fouled, plays the ball up in towards the D Milton Keynes, Leanne Doyle clears it with her head. Chapman pushes forwards with the ball on the right for the home side passes inside to Hardaker, aims her pass towards Gibbons wanting the ball inside the D, Holland marking her closely gets her foot in to push the ball away from the attacker.

  Milton Keynes are defending well, deep however the starting platform to get the ball into Rebecca Vass and Cudone up top is giving the Gillingham defence time to get bodies behind the ball. Gibbons is fouled in a central position a little closer to goal this time striking distance Bowers goes for goal sends her shot over the bar. A clash of heads between Howes and Chapman sees Milton Keynes down to 10 whilst the defender receives treatment for a small cut on her mouth. Attacking Hannah Barrett gets the ball over the top for Vass, Vicky Ashton-Jones tackles getting the ball into Chapman left driving forwards with the ball sends the ball in field is helped on to the right of the pitch the cross swept in near post Gibbons arriving leaps heads the ball down towards goal, Kirby saves getting down low to get hold of the ball. 

Rebecca Vass attempts to control the ball before Vicky Ashton-Jones can make the tackle

  Milton Keynes, Hannah Barrett nipping in to win the ball inside her own half lifts it forwards over the top Vass breaking clear of the Gillingham defence gives chase, Startup is quickly off her line to come out of her area to kick the ball clear. Rachel Ahern brings the ball on up the right attacking for Gillingham crosses early the ball into Chapman coming central closing in on the D, hits the shot on the turn blasting it against a Milton Keynes defender the block rolling towards Bowers 25 yards out hits the shot 1st time races wide of the target.

  Despite all of the chances in attack Gillingham have created so far 1st half the best one falls to Milton Keynes as they win a free-kick inside the Gillingham half inside the centre circle an opportunity to bring players forwards from the back, Barrett to deliver the ball lifts it high towards the players gathered left of goal inside the area, Doyle with a great run peels in behind the back jumping gets her head to the ball drives it goalwards, Startup near post makes an excellent save pushing the ball into the air falling back across the goal Vass following in leaps up trying to nod it home from close range her attempt cannoning off the crossbar bounces down into the six yard box, Gillingham scramble it clear.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Leanne Doyle

 Milton Keynes come forwards again the ball with Heather McDonnell in midfield played on to Charly Wright left her pass forwards into the middle picking out Vass central 25 yards out gets the shot away angling away to the left Startup shifting across gets her gloves firmly around the ball. Cudone finding herself out on the left side has the ball at her feet drives forwards towards the Gillingham box rides 2 challenges before pulling the trigger 20 yards out pulls her strike wide of goal. 

  Charlie Thurston fouls Vass up near half-way the free-kick awarded another chance for the visitors to bring players forwards, Barrett plays the ball long up towards the D, Wright goes up to head the ball, doesn't get a good connection, instead it is deflected wide right into the box, Holland gets hold of it plays the ball back in to Wright who wraps her foot over the ball meeting it on the volley her effort sails high over the crossbar. Late into the 1st half Milton Keynes make a change, Barrett can't continue is replaced by Louise Naylor.

  Cudone still out on the left gets forwards, Milton Keynes captain, Charley Clark giving her the ball moving forwards tries a 1 2 with Vass outside the box shooting sends the ball wide past the post from 25 yards out. Up the other end Gillingham are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position on the left 22 yards from goal. Bowers over the ball goes for goal getting the ball over the wall, it falls straight into the gloves of Kirby. A late corner on the left for Milton Keynes following good work from Wright on the left the ball is angled in towards the near post headed on across the face of goal and out for a goal-kick far side. The last action of the 1st half.

April Bowers goes for goal from the free-kick late in the 1st half for Gillingham FC Ladies

Half-time Gillingham FC Ladies 0-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Gillingham have been the dominant side in the 1st half having had more of the ball and the attack however haven't a goal to show for it. Milton Keynes have sat back in defence and wit no room to get in behind have dealt with most things well played up into the box, have struggled to get their strikers into the game defending so deep waiting for Gillingham to make an error then nipping in on the ball sending it forwards, have had the best chance of the half hitting the crossbar.

  Anna Loftus is on for Milton Keynes at the start of the 2nd half with McDonnell the player off. Gillingham make a change at half-time too with striker Kallie Balfour coming on for midfielder Hardaker. A change of formation for the home side going to 3 at the back Gibbons dropping deeper with Balfour now leading the attack. The ball is with Balfour straight away down the right moving into space taking it on to the byline cuts her cross back into the six yard box is cleared behind for a corner by Holland. Coming towards the ball Balfour receiving the ball inside the box plays it back to Gibbons the corner taker, from the angle she sweep a shot in towards the far post, the Milton Keynes defender covering the post clears the ball. The clearance lands outside the box, Seely latches onto it her strike low into the crowded area is blocked then cleared.

Charley Clark and Kallie Balfour contest the ball

  GOAL! Barely 5 minutes into the 2nd half and Balfour's introduction makes the difference the ball given to her as she moves to the left side turns and heads for goal a powerful run with the ball at her feet entering the box from the left gets the shot away firing the ball across Kirby at the near post and into the back of the net beyond 1-0.

  Coming forwards from the back Ahern covers alot of grass before delivering a cross into the box from the right on the diagonal in towards Gibbons who jumps for the ball but can't make contact as the cross flies over her. A sloppy ball at the back by Gillingham allows Wright to steal in take the ball on the left pushes on up the wing, Ashton-Jones gets back on her to tackle put the ball out for a throw. Taken quickly Wright throws it back to Gillings coming up to support the full-back sweeps a cross into the box players running in it's Ashton-Jones who gets her head to the ball to clear for Gillingham.

Charly Wright on the ball of Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  Getting forwards down the right, Seely now playing wing back has Balfour making a run out to this side rolls the ball into her run the striker taking the ball on down the wing squares a pacey ball in along the face of goal, running along the ground Chapman has gotten into a central position the ball just evades her feet before being cleared far post.

  GOAL! Gillingham extend their lead as the 60th minute arrives the ball is brought into the Milton Keynes half by Keogh her forwards pass picking out Gibbons outside the area left of the D helps the ball on into the area with Balfour peeling off her marker into space right of goal, strikes the ball in centrally is straight at Kirby who gets down to gather the ball is unfortunate as the ball squirms through her gloves and under her body to roll into the net beyond 2-0.

2nd half substitute Kallie Balfour
scores twice for Gillingham

  Naylor plays the ball forwards in beyond the Gillingham defence for Vass to chase into the box, Ashton-Jones on her shoulder, Startup looks to come forwards, Ashton-Jones takes no chances slides a foot in to push the ball away from Vass send it out to the left where it is picked up by Wright whips the ball back into the area, Vass dropping away to the far post area stoops to head the ball is off target but deflects off a defender for a corner.

  Vass plays the ball forwards for Cudone this time to chase into the area hesitation between Startup ad Thurston allows Cudone a chance to get a shot away is off balance however and can only prod the ball straight at Startup who pushes it away with her feet, the ball cleared to the right beyond. Wright gets her foot to the ball as it is delivered long into the box from the right, falling back as she volleys the ball left of goal sends her shot over the bar. Playing in a deeper role 2nd half, Gibbons comes on with the ball, no one closing her down lets fly from 30 yards out her shot flies over the crossbar. 

  Gillingham make their 2nd change with Ahern coming off for Bethany Nugent a straight swap at the back. Keogh carrying the ball forwards passes to Balfour moving left in front of her, turning with the ball at her feet drives into the box shooting the ball lacks any pace doesn't trouble Kirby at her near post the keeper gathering the ball. 

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies, Samantha Gillings

  Gillings bringing the ball on from the back up the left plays it on for Wright her pass forwards sees Cudone after the ball, shoulder to shoulder with Ashton-Jones the defender ends up on the ground as the ball runs behind a corner kick awarded. Is a great delivery from the left played in towards Clark inside the bx at the near post jumping gets a firm header on the ball turning it towards goal, Startup throws her gloves up the ball past her strikes the crossbar, deflected out to the left and cleared for a throw.

Milton Keynes Dons Ladies captain, Charley Clark watches as her header heads towards goal

  A long crossfield ball plays Seely into space on the right taking the ball down into the corner puts the ball into the area a good delivery inswinging central under the bar 2 Gillingham plays closing in on her Kirby going up for it loses it under challenge dropping is cleared off the line by Howes at the far post. Kirby holds onto a powerful strike from Gibbons inside the box as Balfour plays her in receiving the ball on the left sending in on across the D into Gibbons whose shot is angled straight at the keeper.

Gillingham FC Ladies captain, Jade Keogh

  A good tackle from Ashton-Jones at the back for Gillingham to concede a throw on the left as Loftus goes forwards for Milton Keynes looking to get in behind as Wright sends the ball on up the wing. With Milton Keynes pushing players on late into the game Gillingham aren't interested in running the ball into the corner counter attack Keogh on the ball moves to within 25 yards of goal fires a low shot into the box is cleared the ball coming back to the Gillingham captain hits a swerving shot back in towards goal, moving across her line Kirby gets hold of the ball. As Milton Keynes blast a long range strike wide of goal up the other ed the referee blows the final whistle and it's Gillingham who advance to the last 16 of the FAWPL Cup.
  

Full time Gillingham FC Ladies 2-0 Milton Keynes Dons Ladies

  A good contest, Gillingham eventually coming out on top adjusting things 2nd half after a goalless 1st 45 minutes. Dominated play but couldn't break down a well drilled Milton Keynes defence sitting deep. The introduction of Balfour 2nd half altering things found space and with it 2 goals. Milton Keynes were 2nd best today despite hitting the crossbar from a set-piece in each half had less of the attack and few chances for their attackers to test the Gillingham goal. 

 My thanks to Jenny and Julian from Gillingham as well as Laura from Milton Keynes for their help with the teams today, always appreciated.

Match Report - Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Lewes Ladies

  Cup football in the FAWPL this Sunday with all the teams across the 6 divisions competing in the Determining Round of this seasons FAWPL League Cup. A trip today down to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v Lewes Ladies.

   A Determining Round, as the name suggests the tie is the same as last season when the new look format of the League Cup began, to determine which team will play in which competition with the winners progressing into the League Cup proper and the other going into the pot to contest the FAWPL League Plate.

   Cheshunt FC is Tottenham Hotspur Ladies new home venue this season and is the 1st time I've seen them play at their home ground having seen them on the road previously. Cheshunt FC's Stadium on Theobalds Lane is just off the M25, has recently seen some renovation work to it's entrance, with a good clubhouse and refreshments available, a small seated stand on both sides of the ground with a new fence surrounding the pitch which looked in great condition.

  Lewes Ladies are a side I have been wanting to get round to seeing for some time like Tottenham Hotspur Ladies are now an established side in the FAWPL Southern Division since achieving promotion in 2012, also known as the Rookettes. Are amongst the most proactive on social media. When the draw for the competition was made this was the tie that I wanted to see.

   A pretty gloomy day overhead considering we're still in August, overcast and a cool feel to the air although not cold, threat of rain but I was undercover sitting in the stands as the two sides came out onto the pitch.

    Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI - Toni Anne Wayne, Lucia Leon, Sophie McLean, Alexandra Keown, Jenna Schillaci (C), Shannon Maloney, Avilla Bergin, Wendy Martin, Bianca Baptiste, Riana-Devi Soobadoo & Katie O'Leary.
    subs - Leah Rawle, Rosie Kmita, Amy Cooper & Chloe Morgan.

    Lewes Ladies starting XI - Lauren Dolbear, Claire Capon, Natasha Wells, Katie McIntyre, Rachel Palmer, Kelly Newton (C), Danielle Lane, Sian Cheedy, Paige Walder, Cherrelle Khassal & Sian Heather.
    subs - Lauren Smith, Kate Donnan, Gabby Baldock.

  Tottenham have kick off are wearing white shirts and socks with navy coloured shorts with Lewes lined up opposite in their change strip of orange shirts, black shorts and socks. Tottenham are the most attack minded side I've seen play in women's football and it isn't long before they are looking to get behind the Lewes defence with Bianca Baptiste wide on the ride receiving the ball and looking to cross it into the box, Natasha Wells puts in the tackle to win the ball back for Lewes.

   Baptiste is on the ball shortly after standing over a free kick wide on the right half way inside the Lewes half, plays in a high ball towards the area, Katie O'Leary leaps to attack it for Tottenham, Lauren Dolbear keeping goal for Lewes can see the ball wide and out. Baptiste and O'Leary combine the latter winning a corner from Baptiste's pass. Played in from the right the target, Wendy Martin at the far post stoops to head the ball back in towards goal, Dolbear comes out to make save the ball spills out behind her but the Lewes defence gets to it 1st a rushed clearance comes back to Martin her 2nd attempt at goal is blocked.

   Tottenham continue to press early on another corner is won on the left the target again is Martin gets her head to the ball this time on the edge of the area knocks it down into the ground, her team mate Alexandra Keown up from the back is the player to connect with the ball sends a low shot with plenty of pace through the crowded area, the shot is blocked on line by the Lewes defender covering the post.

    Lewes attacks are few and far between in the opening 10 minutes Tottenham having them pinned back are playing a high line, getting hold of the ball in the middle Paige Walder attempts to play the ball through to Cherrelle Khassal looking to break beyond the Tottenham defence, is stopped as captain Jenna Schillaci makes a vital tackle to deny the chance.

    Lewes are sitting off the Tottenham defence the players at the back allowed to play the ball out looking to release the attackers beyond, Alex Keown in particular with a great long range pass looking to pick out Avilla Bergin as she makes a diagonal run, in the Lewes goal Dolbear is alert to the danger and out quickly to the edge of her area to make the save before Bergin can get anything on the ball.

   Lewes best outlet in attack seems to be Danielle Lane down the left flank prepared to go after the ball and hold it up looks to cut back inside on two occasions gets the cross in towards the area can't pick out an orange shirt. On the opposite side Sian Heather with the powerful run into the corner sends a cross into the box from the right, having made up the ground from midfield to get there Katie McIntyre meets the ball 1st touch strike the shot is blocked by the back tracking Tottenham defence.

Paige Walder looking to bring the ball forwards for Lewes Ladies

Riana-Devi Soobadoo

   GOAL! Half way through the 1st half and Tottenham take the lead. The move starting with the ball at O'Leary's feet on the right inside the Lewes half as she brings it forwards, Bergin is looking to make the run in front of her moving from a central position out to the right corner of the area, O'Leary plays her in Bergin looks to hit the shot is straight against a defender the loose ball comes out to the edge of the box inside the D where it is collected by Riana-Devi Soobadoo she hits her shot across Dolbear in goal and it goes into the back of the net off the far post 1-0.

  Lewes look for an immediate response as they are awarded a free kick 30 yards out as Lane is fouled trying to come back inside from the left, it's McIntyre to hit the strike sends the ball in towards the far post a good effort with players coming in to attack it, Tottenham goalkeeper Toni Anne Wayne does well jumping through the crowd to punch the ball away.

Paige Walder with the equaliser

GOAL! Moments later Wayne is the villain as her error brings about an equalising goal for Lewes as her kick out from the area goes straight into the feet of Lewes striker Paige Walder 25 yards out from goal she fires her shot straight back in low and accurate to find the net and make it 1-1. Half an hour gone.

  Bergin is getting plenty of the ball looking to take on the Lewes defence, looking to cut into the box from the by line can't get the cross away as Sian Cheedy slides in to put the ball out for a corner kick. From the resulting corner a spot of pinball occurs on the edge of the Lewes area as the ball is played out to the players inside the D at least three shots are blocked at close range before the loose ball arrives at the feet of Baptiste 20 yards out has a strike on goal pulls it wide of the target.

   Lane is played in down the left again for Lewes a race to the ball between her and Tottenham's Lucia Leon, into the box Lane does well to keep hold of the ball before rolling it across to her right where Walder is there to hit the shot in towards goal, Wayne is down sharply to make the save knocking the ball away for a corner. Tottenham make a 1st half substitution with Baptiste who looked to have taken a knock a few moment before coming of with Leah Rawle coming on to join the attack. 

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half and Tottenham retake the lead. The home side with possession on the left bring it into the Lewes half the cross-field ball is sent forwards with Martin the player bursting up the field central 20 yards out she heads the ball on picking out O'Leary beyond right of goal unmarked six yards out she strokes the ball back across the goal and into the back of the net 2-1.

   GOAL! Into injury time in the 1st half and Tottenham add a 3rd goal with Lewes attacking having players up the pitch Tottenham break, have Martin on the ball charging forwards driving into the area right corner has support hits the low cross along the six yard line the target Rawle in the centre she can't make contact with the ball nevertheless it rolls through to Bergin at the back post she hits the ball sending it high into the back of the net 3-1.

                  Half time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 3-1 Lewes Ladies.

   Two late goals half left Lewes Ladies shell shocked as Tottenham go into the dressing room at half time with a 3-1 lead. Have though had the majority of the attack and created more chances to score, have been allowed to have the ball inside their own half sitting back Lewes haven't had the players in forward positions when they look to break, capitalised on a mistake to get back into the match once, need to score twice in the 2nd half if they want to get back into the tie as they kick off the 2nd period.

    It's Tottenham though that start on the front foot with Soobadoo bringing the ball out wide left playing it into Rawle in front of her taking the ball up the wing she looks to swing a cross in towards the far post with Bergin the player looking to get onto the end of it, leaping Bergin can't quite get there as the ball sails out of play.

   In the middle of the park Shannon Maloney has been performing the sitting role in front of defence for much of the 1st half now she looks to bring the ball forwards, plays the pass out to O'Leary on the right on the run she hits the cross into the box Dolbear leaps up to claim the ball before Rawle can get anywhere near it. O'Leary then drills a shot over the crossbar from distance after Tottenham retain possession around the Lewes box.

Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, Shannon Maloney on the ball

   Bergin bursts down the right wing getting beyond her full back before playing the cross in towards the near post with Martin looking to get onto the end of it, Cheedy looks to leap for the ball with her as Dolbear closes in on them both as all three come together the ball squirms past them all, comes to Soobadoo in the centre her back to goal takes her a second to turn and get her shot away, in that moment Dolbear has scrambled back up to get across her lie and throw herself into the save to stop the shot from going in, play is stopped as Cheedy has remained down needing treatment, but she is okay to continue. From the corner played in from the left O'Leary gets a glancing header to the ball but can only turn it wide.

  GOAL! Penalty to Tottenham! 20 minutes into the 2nd half O'Leary is brought down on the left corner of the area as she races after the ball, Dolbear has come to try and intercept O'Leary goes over the keepers leg the referee points to the spot. It's Tottenham captain Schillaci to take makes no mistake coolly sending the ball into the right of the net 4-1.

   Tottenham continue to have the attack Lewes are hard pressed to make anything happen in the final 3rd, the home side working hard to win the ball back all over the pitch, Martin takes hold of the ball 20 yards out from the Lewes goal doesn't hesitate to shoot puts the ball straight into Dolbear's gloves. Lewes make their 1st change with Lauren Smith coming on for Lane. 

Lewes Ladies captain Kelly Newton battle's Tottenham's Wendy Martin for the ball

   Tottenham make their 2nd change bringing off Schillaci with Rosie Kmita coming on, the substitute joining the attack with Rawle dropping back into defence. Kmita is immediately into the action as Bergin on the ball coming in from the right plays the pass out on the diagonal looking for Kmita's run in from the left into the area she hits her shot wide put off as Cheedy throws herself into the challenge to stop the ball.

  Lewes make their 2nd change Walder coming off for Gabby Baldock. Tottenham's final change sees Martin replaced by Amy Cooper. A give and go between Kmita and O'Leary brings the home side a corner on the right the ball put into the area goes through the crowd falls to Cooper who smashes the ball high over the bar. 

   GOAL! Tottenham add a 5th goal, Bergin the scorer. It's Maloney who brings the ball out from the back plays the pass long looking for Bergin who steals in on the Lewes defence to take the ball running on towards the edge of the area picks her spot placing the ball to the left of the keeper to score her 2nd goal and Tottenham's 5th of the match 5-1.

With her next touch Avilla Bergin scores Tottenham's 5th goal

  Final change for Lewes with Sian Heather coming off and Kate Donnan coming on. Late on into the match the ball is with Tottenham they continue to press forwards, Maloney having gotten forwards takes on a shot 25 yards out aiming for the top corner Dolbear has it covered no problem for her as the shot goes a foot wide. 

   The final whistle blows and Tottenham run out 5-1 winners to clinch their place in the FAWPL League Cup draw proper with a convincing win over Lewes Ladies today. The draw for both the FAWPL League Cup and the Plate which Lewes Ladies will now contest is scheduled for September 14th.

   My thanks to both Tottenham Hotspur Ladies, June Clarke and Jane Roberts for Lewes Ladies for helping me out with the teams today.

   

   

   

   
    

Match Report - Ipswich Town Ladies v Cardiff City Ladies - FAWPL League Cup

   It has been a whole two weeks since I last wrote a match report and with two attempts, planning to watch a women's football match both ending in the matches getting postponed in midweek I was hoping this weekend's match would be on having had it pencilled in, in my diary since the draw for the last 16 of the FA Women's Premier League Cup was made, between Ipswich Town Ladies & Cardiff City Ladies.

    A long journey for Cardiff City Ladies amongst the title challenges in the FAWPL Southern Division currently in 2nd place as they travelled from the Welsh capital east to Suffolk to take on FAWPL South East Division One side Ipswich Town Ladies.

    A tough draw for the Suffolk side, but a chance to test themselves against a side from a higher division. The venue for today's match a 3G pitch at Ipswich Academy which meant it would survive the weather although the rain stayed away on a cold and gloomy afternoon. It was disappointing the fans were made to stand behind the tall fence to watch the match, although I can understand the reason for this it is hardly fair to supporter and players alike.

   For both sides a place in the last eight of the FAWPL League Cup was up for grabs.

   Ipswich Town Ladies starting XI - Chloe Wood, Coral Young, Lucy Du Plooy, Danielle Bitten (C), Aimee Harrison, Lindsey Smith, Sasha Diston, Samantha Carson, Ellie Rossiter, Amanda Crump & Jemma Yarnton.
    subs - Roxanne Small, Molly Hall & Emma Goldsmith.

  Cardiff City Ladies starting XI - Alesha McGlynn, Abbie Britton, Lauren Townsend, Kayleigh Green (C), Louise Hutton, Laura Williams, Kelly Isaac, Steph Williams, Sarah Wiltshire, Cori Williams & Kelly Aldridge.
   subs - Naomi Clipson, Shanelle Edwards & Beth Lloyd.

  It was Cardiff all in red (even the numbers on their shirts) to kick off the match against Ipswich lined up in blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Is chilly with a keen wind the floodlights are on early although it would actually brighten as the game wore on. It's Ipswich who start the brighter of the 2 sides working ball out from the back it is played into the feet of Sasha Diston in the centre of the park she spots the run Amanda Crump is making on the right passes the ball into her run, she carries it forwards and shoots from the edge of the box the ball striking the side netting.

    The Cardiff player I have seen the most of is on loan striker Sarah Wiltshire, the Welsh international having played for Watford Ladies before moving to Yeovil Town Ladies both in the FAWSL 2 during the summer. Has been on loan to Cardiff before then at Watford the previous season, scores goals where ever she goes and would pose a threat to Ipswich today. Is on the ball out on the right channel, surges forwards looks to cross the ball, it is cut out by defender Aimee Harrison, only half cleared Wilttshire comes inside wins the ball back, works the space to shoot 20 yards out the ball is straight into the gloves of Ipswich goalkeeper Chloe Wood.

   Wood is called into action moments later pushing the ball around her post for a corner off a shot from distance by Cardiff's Kelly Aldridge. The corner played in centrally goes over Wood but Wiltshire heads over at close range gets a nick a 2nd corner is given this time Wiltshire has more time to head the ball goalwards but again the attempt is over.

   Is a large pitch and both sides are looking to make use of the space, Ipswich are playing a good pressing game early on forcing errors from the Cardiff back line, captain Dani Bitten wins the ball outside the box looks to play it into Crump on the left this time, shots from a tight angle the ball is collected by Cardiff goalkeeper Alesha McGlynn.

   The ball is played through to Wilshire, playing off the last defender, she surges forwards looking to make for the by line and cross the ball into the area, Ipswich defender Coral Young makes up the ground to tackle her and win the ball back. Cardiff are starting to find more time on the ball move it forwards at pace and stretch the Ipswich defence, Wiltshire and Aldridge space in the channels up front.

    Lindsey Smith brings down, Cardiff's captain Kayleigh Green as she makes a determined run out from the back, 40 yards from goal it's Lauren Townsend over the free kick strikes a low shoot with power against the wall.

   GOAL! The visitors are quicker to respond get onto the loose ball as Ipswich look to break out of their area the bal is passed out to Wiltshire wide left, head down she drives into the box, cuts it back into the six yard box where team mate Aldridge has arrived to tap the ball past Wood to give the visitors the lead 0-1.

    Diston is unlucky to concede a free kick 40 yards out as she tackles well to win the ball, but her trailing leg trips the Cardiff attacker, same position as the earlier free kick this effort taken by Cardiff's Steph Williams is heading for the back of the net, Wood makes the save pushing the ball around the post for a corner. Wood does well to claim the ball under challenge as it comes into her area.

   GOAL!  The visitors double their lead, strong running down the left as Cardiff break with pace, Ipswich prevent the cross from coming in, the ball though is won back and played into the feet of Cardiff's Laura Williams on the corner of the penalty area she drills her shot low and hard towards the far post and scores 0-2.

   Ipswich have a free kick on the half way line it's Diston who plays the ball forwards for Crump making the forward run on the left she holds the ball up well, turns her marker and charges into the box puts a high looping cross into box looking for Ellie Rossiter making the run towards the far post Cardiff head behind for the corner.

   Wood makes a fantastic point blank save off Wiltshire as the Welsh international has the ball at her feet and steals into the box, Wood is quick off her line to close the angle down, Wiltshire strikes her shot against her.

    Lauren Townsend is finding alot of space down the right making some good runs from the right back position, a powerful runner, strong on the ball she carries the ball forwards with purpose. Laura Williams plays the ball into her path Townsend surges into the box, Ipswich's Harrison comes across makes an important tackle to deny a goal scoring opportunity.

   GOAL! It's not long before Cardiff extend their lead however. The build up is quick again the ball won in the centre is played forward into Wiltshire the strike from distance is powerful and kept low past Wood before she can react 0-3.

Cardiff's Sarah Wiltshire looking for a strike on goal

    Cardiff continue to press forwards getting the ball high up the pitch, Wiltshire sees the run from Townsend on the right plays the long pass to perfection into her feet, the right back has time to put a good cross into the six yard box, high Wood gets a glove to it pushes the ball away, it comes back out to Laura Williams who blasts her shot over from 25 yards.

                       Half-time Ipswich Town Ladies 0-3 Cardiff City Ladies

   Despite a bright start Ipswich find themselves 3 goals down, could have been more, have defended well but Cardiff's movement off the ball has stretched them at times and pushed back the home side has struggled to get the ball up to Rossiter in attack. An early goal is needed if the home side wants to get back into the match as they kick off the 2nd half.

   It is McGlynn in the Cardiff goal who is the 1st to be tested in the 2nd half as Ipswich captain Dani Bitten has a pop at goal from 45 yards out a good effort but McGlynn sees it all the way. Not long after McGlynn is called into action again as she rushes off her line to close down Ipswich's Amanda Crump as she is played on goal by Samantha Carson outside the box..

   GOAL! The next goal is Cardiff's the visitors mount another rapid counter attack, breaking down the right of the pitch. The ball is clear of the Ipswich defence, Wood comes rushing out of her area is commited has to get to the ball and clear it before the Cardiff attack can nick it past her, does well sending the ball out for a throw, the high fence means the ball hasn't frightened the life out of a squirrel, instead the throw is taken quickly Wood is hardly back on her line as the shot comes in from Aldridge fired across the box towards the far post and in 0-4.

   GOAL! Cardiff soon add a 5th goal and it's Aldridge with her hat-trick as she peels off to the left channel as the ball is played into her beats her marker, shifts the ball between her feet 20 yards out and strikes the ball sending her rising shot towards goal, Wood throws herself at the ball but in vain as the ball sails over her and in 0-5.

    Despite going 5 goals down Ipswich don't let their heads drop, continue looking to play the ball forwards, Ellie Rossiter holds the ball up well links up well with Bitten in the centre as she comes forwards in support she sprays the ball out to the left for Jemma Yarnton to run onto she breaks into the area strikes the ball goalwards, McGlynn is beaten at her near post but the ball cannons off the base of the post and Cardiff clear.

    Cardiff make the 1st change bringing on Naomi Clipson for Kayleigh Green.

   GOAL! Cardiff score a 6th goal, Aldridge with her 4th of the match good build up down the left this time the cross is fired in low and hard across the six yard line too strong for Wiltshire coming in centrally to slide onto it comes through to Aldridge at the far post and she slides to meet the cross and send the ball into the back of the net.

    Chanelle Edwards comes on for Cardiff. Wiltshire has a goal chalked off for offside as she plays off the shoulder of the last defender puts her shot in the net from distance a good strike but play is pulled back as the linesmans flag is up.

   Ipswich make their 1st change bringing on Molly Hall for Jemma Yarnton. Cardiff sub Chanelle Edwards adds extra pace to the visitors attack out on the left is soon on the ball driving at the tiring Ipswich defence. Breaking into the box, she is prevented from putting a ball across goal as Coral Young recovers well to make a brilliant tackle to concede a corner. The ball into the box his headed wide by Wiltshire at the far post. Beth Lloyd comes onto the pitch for Cardiff to replace Abbie Britton.

   GOAL! Cardiff bring up their 7th goal good combination play between Wiltshire and Aldridge. Wiltshire having ran into space on the left plays the ball into the middle for Aldridge continues her run looking to get into the box, Aldridge passes the ball to her, Wiltshire looks to shoot from an acute angle, puts plenty of power behind the rising shot Wood get's her gloves to it but can't prevent the shot going in 0-7.
 
    Ipswich make a 2nd change bringing on Emma Goldsmith for Lindsey Smith.

   Cardiff's Kelly Isaac having seen the goals going in wants in on the action as the ball rolls loose with Cardiff continuing to press the ball high up the pitch, comes to her outside the area she meets it on the half volley rising the shot strikes the bar, coming down into the area Ipswich clear.

   GOAL! This time Isaac get's her goal pressing forwards in numbers Isaac is central as the ball is played into her run 25 yards out from goal, she get's plenty of power and height on the shot Wood has no chance to stop it 0-8.

   Ipswich are still looking to create something even as they are conceding goals at the other end, in the middle Diston plays a good through ball into the path of Crump, Cardiff though are always alert to the threat and this time Townsend is round on the cover to win the ball before Crump can get her strike away.

Cardiff's Lauren Townsend

  Molly Hall holds the ball up well for Ipswich central with her back to goal it's Diston who looks to make the run past her, Hall gets the ball past her marker for Diston to run onto McGlynn is rapidly off her line to come and clear the threat.

   GOAL! It's Edwards who scores a 9th goal for Cardiff with a spin and shot from outside the box as the cross is fired into her from the left, as late on Cardiff work the ball up the pitch quickly as they have done all match 0-9.

   The final whistle blows and that is the full time score as Cardiff City Ladies win by 9 goals to nil and book their place in the FAWPL League Cup Quarter Final draw. A domiant display from the visitors once they settled into the match worked the ball well and the space on the pitch even better, stretched Ipswich which in turn prevented the home side from getting numbers forwards when they had the ball.

   A 9-0 defeat is never great, but it was a good test for Ipswich and credit to the team for not letting their heads drop looked to play the ball.

   Best of luck to Cardiff City Ladies in the next round of the League Cup and thanks to both clubs for helping me out with the match day squads.
  

   

  

  


  

Match Report - Cambridge WFC v Cheltenham Town Ladies - FAWPL League Cup

   The start of a new season brings new look leagues and cup competitions, today was the determining round of the FA Women's Premier League Cup. With teams taking part from the two Premier Divisions and the four regional Division One's. My tie of the round to watch was Cambridge WFC v Cheltenham Town Ladies.

   Playing in the FAWPL South East Division One, Cambridge WFC were playing host to their counterparts, Cheltenham Town LFC, the Gloucestershire side competing in the South West Division One. Both teams had lost their opening day league fixtures last weekend so the cup match represented a good opportunity to get their season going with victory taking them into the 1st round proper.

   The venue Ely City FC, the weather was fantastic for a game of football bright and sunny, few dark clouds around but nothing to worry about.

    Cambridge WFC starting XI - Liz Pamplin, Emma Jenkins, Jordan Holland, Kayleigh-Anne Burt, Rebecca Fay, Millie Turner, Hannah Bodily, Laura Bright (C), Becky Russell, Faith Hewitt & Nuala Wayne.

   Cheltenham Town Ladies starting XI - Ashleigh Lebbon, Anna Dennis, Natalie Berry, Emily Skipp, Kirsty Dunleavy (C), Rhona Donaldson, Jade Wiltshire, Katie Walker, Jen Brown-Wealls & Kim Hewlett.

   Cambridge were lined up in their new home kit unveiled last weekend, sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts, the shirts featuring the name of new sponsor Sepura. It was Cheltenham to kick off the match wearing what would be best described as a rust coloured kit with white trim upon the shirts and shorts.

   There was however nothing rusty about the visitors start as they won the ball back from Cambridge and launched it forwards, it looked very close to being offside as striker Kim Hewlett burst free with the Cambridge defence pressed up close to the half way line, no flag Hewlett has the ball runs into the box and slots it past Cambridge goalkeeper Liz Pamplin to give Cheltenham the lead in the 1st minute of the match 0-1.

  Cambridge look to go forwards using their wide players to get into goood crossing positions the ball is played into striler Nuala Wayne waiting at the corner of the penalty box, has a tentative strike towards goal, Cheltenham goalkeeper Ashleigh Lebbon isn't troubled.

    Pamplin makes a save as Cheltenham's Emily Skipp finds herself free to shoot inside the box having made a strong run down the left wing.

   Cambridge are getting the better of the possession Hannah Bodily and captain Laura Bright working hard in midfield, steadily work the ball forwards to Millie Turner who plays the ball from a central position out to Becky Russell on the left wing, she puts a good cross into the six yard box, Wayne can't get to the ball before Lebbon claims.

Cambridge's Laura Bright (C) & Hannah Bodily

    Faith Hewitt for Cambridge crosses the ball in from the left Cheltenham concede a corner, played in by Russell into the near post it comes out to Wayne who shoots from outside the box the ball travelling through a crowd of players Lebbon does well to take it.

   In Cheltenham's midfield Rhona Donaldson is strong on the ball, looking to get forwards to supporting the attackers almost finds herself through to shoot on goal pulls the trigger, the block comes in from Cambridge's Jordan Holland diving to prevent her.

   Jen Brown-Wealls for Cheltenham running with the ball into the right channel puts in a good cross, Holland gets her head on the ball to clear as Hewlett tries to reach it.

    From a Cambridge corner defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt volleys the ball from outside the box the attempt on goal going wide.

    Cheltenham's Hewlett strals the ball from the Cambridge defence, opts to shoot quickly the effort from outside of the box swerving goes straight into Pamplin's gloves.

   Keeping the ball in Cambridge's final third for a spell, the shot on goal comes in from Donaldson on the half volley the ball going over the crossbar.

Cheltenham's Rhona Donaldson

    Cambridge get the ball up the pitch quickly down the right as Turner and Jenkins link up well, get the ball into Wayne, on the right outside the box Cheltenham don't close her down, a good strike she puts the ball into the back of the net to equalise 1-1.

   The pressing is all Cambridge's as the half draws to and end Wayne with another effort from the same spot, this time shoots over, with Hewitt and Russell both having the ball at their feet inside the box only for Cheltenham's Anna Dennis to win it back on both occasions.

                   Half-time Cambridge WFC 1-1 Cheltenham Town Ladies

   An entertaining 1st half with both teams working extremely hard the ball travelling up and down the pitch at a fast pace Cambridge despite the early set back enjoying more sustained spells of possession pulling the scores level before the break all to play for 2nd half as they kicked off.

   Cheltenham making a change at the break bringing on Abbi Pearce for Natalie Berry. Cheltenham's captain Kirsty Dunleavy is called into action to deny Wayne a scoring chance as she takes the ball into the box.

    Early in the half Cambridge a pushing Cheltenham back win a corner it is only half cleared the ball coming back into a crowded penalty box the referee spots a trip and a penalty is given. It's Laura Bright to step up and take the kick placing the ball on the spot she sends Lebbon the wrong way to give the home side the lead 2-1.

    Cheltenham make their 2nd substitution Catherine Reilly coming on for Jen Brown-Wealls. Cambridge though continue their good start to the 2nd half Russell playing in a corner to the centre it's Holland who rises to meet the ball but directs it wide.

    Faith Hewitt bursts into the Cheltenham box with the ball looks to pass to Turner in a central position, Lebbon saves, the loose ball comes back to Hewitt who shots Lebbon tries to get back stop the ball going over the line, the linesman indicates it crosses the line and Cambridge lead 3-1.

   Wayne has a shot from 25 yards that flies over the bar, then shortly after the referee allows the advantage after she is fouled with Hewitt on the ball she shoots wide.

   Chances for Cheltenham are rare in the 2nd half they cannot get the ball up the pitch quick enough Hewlett does manage to get a cross in from the left the ball is headed over at the far post.

   Cambridge make a change Hannah Bodily coming off, Hannah Goodchild coming on. Wayne makes a strong run cutting in from the left on the by line sees Turner central on the six yard line plays her in Turner tries to divert the ball into the open net with the inside of her foot, gets too much on the attempt sends the ball wide.

    Sophie Thompson comes on for Cambridge replacing Faith Hewitt. Has an early chance to shoot too as Wayne sees her run and plays her in the shot is blocked on the edge of the box, Cheltenham break through Hewlett, Cambridge concede a corner from the cross. The ball coms out to the left from the setpiece Hewlett hits the ball on the run Pamplin is behind it to take the catch.

   Thompson is onto a good through ball breaks forwards into the box is pushed a little wide of goal by Dennis who does well to block her shot gives away a corner. This corner leads to a serious amount of pinball inside the six yard box, somehow Lebbon avoids getting kicked to death and eventually claim the ball.

    The clock ticking down Katie Walker has a pop from 30 yards the shot blazes over. Hewlett takes a free kick 30 yards out from goal the strike again straight at Pamplin.

    Last break for Cambridge, Wayne is onside, Lebbon comes rushing off her line does enough to put her off as Wayne sends the ball wide. Full time and Cambridge win 3-1 and progress to the next round of the FAWPL League Cup.

   Cheltenham despite losing the tie get a 2nd chance of competing for silverware as they enter FAWPL Plate. Take a look at the FAWPL's official twitter feed @FA_WPL for more details.

    A good win for Cambridge after suffering such an early setback very strong in the 2nd half creating plenty of goal scoring chances.

    Cheltenham will undoubtedly be disappointed with the loss, a long way to travel too. Good to see a women's team from another part of the country play and I wish them all the best for the season.

    The draw for both the FAWPL League Cup and Plate take place tomorrow, Monday 1st September.