Match Report - Birmingham City Ladies v Chelsea Ladies

  Last game of the season this Saturday afternoon, the winter leagues all concluded the 1st weekend in June sees the FAWSL 1 Spring Series come to an end and it couldn't be any tighter at the top as once again the league will be decided on the last day with 4 sides in the running. A second trip to Solihull Moors FC's Autotech Stadium in 3 days with Chelsea Ladies leading the table going into their final game away to Birmingham City Ladies

  Chelsea Ladies leading on 16 points with a strong goal difference over 2nd placed Manchester City Women both defeated just the once during the one off Spring Series campaign. A busy schedule 8 league games in 6 weeks just 2 points separate the top 4. Chelsea going top of the table with a comprehensive 7-0 win at home to previous leaders Liverpool Ladies last weekend maintained top spot with a midweek win away to Bristol City Women. Another away victory today will guarantee Emma Hayes' side the Spring Series trophy and lay down a marker for next season when the FAWSL returns to the winter scheduling to come back in line with the rest of the women's football pyramid. 

  Anything less than a win and it gives their rivals a chance, Manchester City are away to Liverpool Ladies now in 4th spot 2 points off the top having led for much of the Spring Series. Liverpool need other results to go their way but they know it is possible having been 3rd on the final day a couple of seasons back. Arsenal Ladies are the only undefeated side in the table in 3rd place a point behind the leading pair. Ideally they need to win away to Bristol City Women and hope Chelsea lose and Manchester City Women either draw or are beaten.

  Looking to stop Chelsea Ladies claiming the title, Birmingham City Ladies have had a frustrating Spring Series just the 2 losses have become the draw specialists in the league with 4 from their 7 games played so far. Just the one win have plenty of goal scorers in their squad it's just that they haven't found the net to often just the 6 scored. Creating plenty of chances were unfortunate not to get the 3 points at home to Yeovil Town Ladies as the league new comers battled for a goalless draw to get their 1st point of the campaign.

  Saturday afternoon for the final round of fixtures, a 3:30pm kick off and then my football is done for the season. The television cameras at the Autotech Stadium the game being shown on BT Sports. A decent sized crowd building too, Chelsea bringing plenty of travelling support with them. Another decent day weather wise too warm and bright with a little cloud cover.

 Birmingham City Ladies starting XI - Ann-Katrin Berger, Meghan Sargeant, Aoife Mannion, Kerys Harrop (C), Paige Williams, Sarah Mayling, Jess Carter, Marissa Ewers, Abbey-Leigh Stringer, Ellie Brazil & Rachel Williams.
 subs - Sophie Baggaley, Emily Westwood, Charlie Wellings, Adrine Hegerberg, Freda Ayisi, Chloe Peplow & Connie Scofield.

 Chelsea Ladies starting XI - Carly Telford, Millie Bright, Deanna Cooper, Gilly Flaherty, Katie Chapman (C), Maren Mjelde, Gemma Davison, Ji So-Yun, Crystal Dunn, Karen Carney & Fran Kirby.
 subs - Fran Kitching, Hannah Blundell, Beth England, Erin Cuthbert, Ramona Bachmann & Drew Spence.

  Both sides having been in action on Wednesday night make full use of their squads Birmingham making 4 changes from the starting line-up with manager Marc Skinner bringing Kerys Harrop, Jess Carter, Sarah Mayling and Rachel Williams into the starting 11 with Freda Ayisi, Adrine Hegerberg and Emily Westwood on the bench. Emma Hayes making 5 changes switching wing backs Hannah Blundell and Beth England for Crystal Dunn and Gemma Davison. Erin Cuthbert, Ramona Bachmann and Drew Spence also starting up top for Chelsea on Wednesday on the bench today with Karen Carney and Ji So-Yun joining Fran Kirby in the attack. 

  It's Birmingham to get the 1st half underway wearing their all blue home kit with Chelsea wearing their white away strip. Birmingham play the ball long out to the right Sarah Mayling looking to knock the all on into the area for Ellie Brazil, Chelsea goalkeeper, Carly Telford getting an early claim on the ball. 

  Bringing the ball forwards the pass finding Ji So-Yun for Chelsea the South Korean international plays the ball into Karen Carney making a run out to the right side is challenged by Birmingham captain, Kerys Harrop the ball put out for a throw in from which the 1st corner of the game is won. Fran Kirby comes out of the six yard box to receive the corner rolled into her by Carney plays it back to Davison top of the area to sweep a cross into the area, Birmingham's Jess Carter heads the ball clear.

  Positive build up play from Chelsea working the ball forwards Birmingham defending the final ball as the visitors attempt to play Kirby in behind on the right. Birmingham put the ball up through the middle, Rachel Williams looking to attack it, Millie Bright back across her run skies the ball high into the air, both give chase as it falls towards the left outside the area the Chelsea defender fouling the Birmingham attacker to give away the free-kick. Paige Williams on the set-piece plays it into the area, Chelsea clear, Birmingham regroup, gain possession and come forwards an intriguing start to the game an even contest so far.

Rachel Williams hurdling, Cooper's sliding challenge

  Aoife Mannion is busy in the heart of the Birmingham defence comes across to deal with Kirby as she looks to find a way in round the back down the left channel. Little goalmouth action in the opening 15 minutes. Carney getting hold of the ball on halfway pics out American International Crystal Dunn on the move down the left taking the ball on to the byline cuts the cross back into the area, falls for Carter back tracking to help her defence her stooping header running straight to So-Yun outside the area left connects with the 1st time hit her volley well over the crossbar.

Birmingham's Aoife Mannion beats Chelsea's Fran Kirby to the ball

  Kirby is fouled in the back by Meghan Sargeant on the left side outside the area as she attempts to hold the ball up the referee spotting it awarding Chelsea the free-kick. Carney over the ball hits it hard and inswinging ball flying in central towards goal Birmingham goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger coming through the crowd before her punches the ball away.

 GOAL! Penalty! In the 21st minute Chelsea are awarded a penalty. Deanna Cooper bringing the ball out from the back playing it long for Kirby making the run into the box, is taken down by Berger as the goalkeeper comes across to challenge the referee pointing to the spot shows Berger a yellow card. Carney up to take the spot kick no messing hits it hard, Berger guessing the right way dives can't get anywhere near the ball 0-1.

Karen Carney gives Chelsea Ladies the lead from the penalty spot

   Harrop does well defending for Birmingham on the right as Davison gets forwards to support Carney. Drifting across to the left as Birmingham attack, Brazil looks to try and knock the ball in behind the Chelsea defence, reading it Gilly Flaherty makes the defensive tackle for Chelsea winning the ball. Sarah Mayling is keeping tight to the wing on the right trying to get forwards to support the attack room to receive the ball if her team mates can find her. Rachel Williams picks her out the cross comes in high is Williams coming in, Telford keeps her eye on the ball claims it high.

  Chelsea are starting to see more of the ball patient and progressive in their build up play over loading one flank or the other, Birmingham's back three have dealt with thing's well so far, Harrop left, Sargeant right well backed up by Mannion in between. Great attacking build up from Chelsea the ball going right to left quickly Carney playing the ball across the face of the area into So-Yun 30 yards out on for captain Katie Chapman she picks out Dunn getting away down the left taking the ball on towards the line whips and inviting cross into the six yard box, Davison running onto it far post sends her bullet header over.

Karen Carney on the attack for Chelsea Ladies

   Maren Mjelde is allowed to come forwards with the ball through the middle the Norwegian International spots Berger off her line looks to send the shot in a distance over her, Berger back peddling does well to stop the ball high on her goal line bring it down safely. Chelsea ending the 2nd half strongly, Carney influencing the play brings the ball out to the left before turning inside producing a great reverse pass to release Dunn on the left, slices her cross behind. 

Chelsea Ladies, Maren Mjelde

   Bright has defended well at the back for Chelsea left side getting forwards when she can to support the attack down that side sends  a great ball on for Dunn an excellent 1st touch to bring the ball down into Carney who plays Dunn on down the wing, the cross bisecting the six yard box is too long for Davison coming in far post, retrieves the ball turning back in towards goal lifting the ball into the middle Mannion gets her head on the ball to clear for Birmingham.

Birmingham City Ladies, Ann-Katrin Berger

  Into the closing stages of the 1st half Chelsea dominating play towards the end of the 45, Carney with a fantastic ball up into the area central, both So-Yun and Kirby looking to steal in behind a deft header from So-Yun to drop the ball into Kirby's path she attempts to knock the ball past the advancing Berger, the goalkeeper denies her making a superb stop going to ground killing the ball with her right hand, Mannion quickest to react getting the ball out of the area.    

Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-1 Chelsea Ladies 

 An intriguing contest, Chelsea Ladies have the 1-0 lead enough as it stands to see them clinch the FAWSL 1 Spring Series title. An even start to the game little goal mouth action early on both playing 3 at the back winning the ball has been congested in midfield Chelsea beginning to find more room with the like of Carney moving across the pitch. Birmingham have defended well without creating too many opportunities up the other end the penalty the difference between the sides at the break.

  Chelsea to get the 2nd half underway in front of a revised crowd of 1171, no changes for either side during the interval. Carter winning the ball at the back for Birmingham as the visitors look to play Davison through into the area from the right. The ball played long into the left channel, Brazil gives chase, she is quickly closed down by Cooper who shields the ball well before rolling it into Telford to kick clear up the pitch. 

Jess Carter wins the ball for Birmingham City Ladies

  Great hold-up play inside the box by Rachel Williams as the ball is rolled into her feet from the right off Mayling, left of goal six yard outs spins off he marker and hits the cross/shot on the turn effort going over from the angle. Mjelde carries the ball forwards moving left supported by Davison as the ball is pushed on then cut inside for Kirby charging at the area left side her shot is charged down. Chelsea keep possession of the ball stroke it around the top of the Birmingham area before So-Yun wins the visitors a corner kick.

  Carney puts plenty of zip on the ball goes long headed back in across goal by Mjelde out of play wide of the far post another corner signalled. A strong start to the 2nd half for Chelsea in the opening 10 minutes as they look to double their lead. 

 GOAL! From that early 2nd half pressure Chelsea go on to double their lead the ball on the right with Davison powering forwards fires a vicious cross in along the goal face Berger getting down low to stop the ball spills it running on for Kirby at the far post for a simple tap in to make it 0-2.

Fran Kirby doubles Chelsea Ladies lead

  Birmingham push on from the restart Mannion prepared to bring the ball out from the back spots Rachel Williams looking to break through the middle of the Chelsea defence puts the ball on over the top, into the area, Telford back peddling gives herself the room to collect the ball cleanly on the bounce, rather than risk spilling it with Williams barrelling down upon her. A break in play a Brazil gets the full force of the ball driven into her stomach from close range by Bright as she goes to clear the ball. Both sides make a change Carter coming off for Birmingham just past the hour mark, Charlie Wellings coming on. Chelsea bring off Davison she is replaced by Swiss International, Ramona Bachmann. Brazil is okay to return to the action.

  Wellings has an early opportunity to drive with the ball at the Chelsea defence coming in from the right is stopped in her tracks by Bright. A mazy run with the ball on the left from Dunn for Chelsea bringing the ball inside across the top of the area, is leaning back as she goes to strike the ball causing her shot to swerve away from goal. A neat one two through the middle between Carney and Kirby the latter into the box, Harrop steps in to make the timely interception. A 2nd change fro Birmingham with 20 minutes left on the clock increasing their attacking options bringing on Freda Ayisi for Ewers.

Freda Ayisi coming away with the ball for Birmingham City Ladies

   Very nearly a 3rd goal for Chelsea, Flaherty joining the attack getting forwards laying the all into Kirby near post no room to turn lays it back to So-Yun who back heels the ball into Mjelde just outside the box strikes the bar flies narrowly over the bar. Chelsea notch up the passes building up another attack play inside the Birmingham half left rolled into So-Yun in a central position strikes the ball goalwards, taking a deflection on the way through the pace off the ball Berger gathers.

 Brazil has worked hard up front for Birmingham chasing lost causes getting the ball back in play going after it down the left wing lays the ball back to Paige Williams outside the box top corner, fires the diagonal ball long towards the far post brought down by Rachel Williams keeps hold of the ball turns and tries to lift it up towards the opposite post, Telford in between gets up to claim hold of the ball. Rachel Williams has another opportunity moments later striking the ball wide from 30 yards after Cooper's sliding tackle to deny Brazil runs into her path.

Chelsea Ladies, Deanna Cooper

  Chelsea make another change bring Kirby off sending on Drew Spence. Paige Williams carries the ball forwards for Birmingham turning in field puts a great ball on for Brazil making the run towards the top of the area the striker almost connects but is closely marked by Cooper the defender putting in the challenge before getting the ball away from danger. Birmingham win a corner as Brazil pressures Cooper in the left corner. The ball is fired in near post Flaherty gets her head down to the ball as Harrop comes in with a high boot, noses and studs work in some combinations but not that one the referee awarding the free-kick. Flaherty is okay. 

Birmingham City Ladies, Paige Williams

   A powerful run with the ball through the middle by Bachmann for Chelsea getting into the box but up against Mannion it's the defender who wins the tussle for control of the ball. 5 minutes of added on time to be played Chelsea are almost there, make their 3rd and final change So-Yun off, Erin Cuthbert the substitute almost finding herself through on goal following great work from Dunn on the left with the support in Carney on her inside right putting the ball on for Cuthbert in the area left of goal almost succeeds in knocking it past Berger as she comes to close her down the keeper grabbing the ball and pulling it into her body. 

Full time Birmingham City Ladies 0-2 Chelsea Ladies

  That's it the final whistle blows and Chelsea Ladies are the FAWSL 1 Spring Series Champions finishing ahead of Manchester City Women on goal difference. Arsenal Ladies go the whole Spring Series unbeaten clinch 3rd spot. Liverpool Ladies ending the Spring Series with 2 straight defeats end up 4th.

  A good display from Chelsea to end the season. Playing some good attacking football progressive in their build up patient too. Plenty of attacking options with Katie Chapman protecting a solid back three. Laying down the marker for next season. Conceding from 2 errors Birmingham will feel disappointed once again another solid performance again with another strong defensive trio at the back not creating as much going forwards, overall would have expected to pick up more points during the Spring Series campaign but that squad is more likely to be challenging the top half of the FAWSL table next season rather than looking down.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

 The final SWF Blog - Player of the Season goes to Chelsea Ladies Karen Carney an impressive performance using the ball well, moving to find space and bring others into play. Hopefully she can take that on into this summers Euro's for England.

Karen Carney

  Congratulation's to Chelsea Ladies on winning the FAWSL 1 Spring Series.

 Last match report for a little while 140 games in 18 months not a bad run time to enjoy a break however but will be rearing to go come the new season.

Match Report - Birmingham City Ladies v Yeovil Town Ladies

 A midweek trip to Solihull Moor FC's Autotech Stadium to watch the FAWSL 1 Spring Series fixture between Birmingham City Ladies & league new comers Yeovil Town Ladies.

 The penultimate game of the Spring series for Birmingham City Ladies down in 6th place from their 6 games played to date in the one off competition before the league reverts to a winter format later in the year. Marc Skinner taking over as manager reaching the FA Women's Cup Final. Haven't picked up as many points in their Spring Series campaign as they would have liked with just the one win along with 3 draws putting them on 6 points. Successive home games against Yeovil tonight then Chelsea Ladies on Sunday will be looking for Maximum points.

The Spring Series a good opportunity to access a squad and try new thing's Birmingham City Ladies have a large squad, which is useful with a few unavailable, new signings, Ellen White and Emma Follis amongst them along with captain Kerys Harrop and PFA Young Player of the Year, Jess Carter.

  I said in my season previews that the Spring Series would most likely benefit the newly promoted sides the most. Yeovil Town Ladies winning promotion to the top tier of women's football as FAWSL 2 Champions last season for the 1st time. A chance to see what the higher level is all about without the pressure of league position a snap shot half season. Yeovil Town know now after 7 games they have a bit of work to do if they are to pick up points regularly next season. 7 straight losses bottom of the table without a point.

  A mixture of results, some heavy defeats against the sides expecting to be challenging at the top, narrow losses to those that they would be more likely to take points from. Not training as regularly as some squads in FAWSL 1 another factor. With an uneven number in FAWSL 1 due to the folding of Notts County tonight is Yeovil Town's last match of the Spring Series and it would be a huge boost to the club to take at least a point home with them.

  Has been a while since I was last at the Autotech Stadium a few improvements and additions another smaller seated area in one corner along with covered terracing behind one goal. Always get a good cheeseburger there too. Have been craving an soft scoop ice cream for a few days now to, long way to go to get one but I'm glad to see the ice cream van is still a regular feature at the ground. Another warm sunny day a few clouds around but unlikely to rain the pitch i great condition considering the time of season.

Birmingham City Ladies starting XI - Ann-Katrin Berger, Meghan Sargeant, Emily Westwood (C), Aoife Mannion, Paige Williams, Abbey-Leigh Stringer, Marisa Ewers, Adrine Hegerberg, Carol-Jade Haines, Freda Ayisi & Ellie Brazil.
subs - Sophie Baggaley, Sian Johnson, Sarah Mayling, Chloe Peplow, Charlie Wellings, Connie Scofield & Rachel Williams.

Yeovil Town Ladies starting XI - Megan Walsh, Helen Bleazard, Natalie Haigh, Hannah Short, Nicola Cousins, Ellie Curson (C), Angharad James, Annie Heatherson, Nia Jones, Nadia Lawrence & Lucy Quinn.
subs - Bethany Howard, Leah Burridge, Steph Williams, Jessie Jones, Sarah Wiltshire, Kelly Snook & Ella Pursey.

  It's Birmingham to get the 1st half underway wearing their all blue kit with white piping across the shoulders, shorts and socks. Yeovil wearing a yellow coloured kit with green horizontal piping on the shirts and shorts with yellow and green hooped socks. Not much happening in the early stages the ball played out wide to Abbey-Leigh Stringer on the right quickly closed down by Yeovil captain, Ellie Curson as she attempts to get forwards.

  Paige Williams receives the ball in space on the left wing looking up plays the diagonal ball early into the box looking to pick out Ellie Brazil around the penalty spot the striker bringing he ball down on her chest is closely marked by Yeovil's Hannah Short the centre back reacting quickly to clear the ball. Birmingham goalkeeper, Ann-Katrin Berger gathers the ball as Yeovil launch a rapid counter attack the ball, isn't long getting down the other end Brazil after it down the left channel holding it up rolls the ball up towards Williams sends a looping cross into the area, Yeovil goalkeeper, Megan Walsh claims it high in the arm no losing her grip in the ball as Freda Ayisi clatters into her.

Birmingham City Ladies, Paige Williams

  Off the bar! Coral-Jade Haines comes very close to opening to scoring for Birmingham in the 6th minute as she wins the ball from a goal kick takes aim from 30 yards out the ball fired in smashes against the crossbar and over for a goalkick. Yeovil have little of the attack early on Birmingham intercepting any attempt at sliding the ball through for Lucy Quinn to chase.

  Haines strikes the bar again less than 5 minutes after her earlier strike, closer in this time as Birmingham press down the right side Meghan Sargeant getting forwards with the ball cutting it across the face of the area Ayisi inside the D holds it up before laying it back for Haines to hit 25 yards out smashes against the bar dropping down safely for Yeovil to clear.

  A break in play as Stringer clashes heads with Nicola Cousins, the Yeovil player coming off worse needing treatment, getting up gingerly is allowed to return to the pitch, very nearly puts Yeovil into the lead as the woodwork is struck for the 3rd time in the opening 17 minutes. The ball is played into Nadia Lawrence halfway on the right holding the ball up has support from full back Natalie Haigh the ball is fired up into the middle Quinn the target outside the box can't take it in her stride, Cousins coming beyond her left of goal latches onto the ball hitting it across the keeper strikes the base of the far post.

  Birmingham attack on the left Brazil with support from Marisa Ewers coming on from the midfield the latter attempting to get into the box take a run at goal her cross cut out comes back to Ayisi inside the D attempts to curl the ball into the top corner places it wide of the far post. Another injury concern for Yeovil as Annie Heatherson is down injured. Okay to continue Yeovil win a corner on the right the ball cleared near post Birmingham look to break with purpose Ayisi bringing the ball on sends it forwards, Birmingham captain Emily Westwood is the furthest forwards, Walsh comes racing out of her area winning the race for the ball kicking it long.

Birmingham City Ladies captain, Emily Westwood

  Good work by Stringer getting hold of the ball on the right wing coming forwards lifts it up into the area for Brazil peeling right, the ball won't drop favourably for the attacker closed down by Helen Bleazard, comes back to Stringer, puts a high ball in towards the far post Walsh takes it high in the air with Ayisi closing in. Ewers is fouled by Curson a free-kick wide left Williams to put the ball into the box, Short wins the header. Birmingham retain possession inside the Yeovil half working it around the area the move ending with a shot from Stringer driven in low but wide from 25 yards. 

Abbey-Leigh Stringer bringing the ball on for Birmingham

 A great opportunity for Stringer as she gets into the box coming in from the right supported by Brazil coming central out to the right giving the midfielder the return ball she is clear on goal, opts instead to try and square it into Haines central she is tackled by Jones the chance gone. A free-kick inside the Birmingham half wide right a chance for players to go forwards Bleazard over the ball 40 yards out a great delivery into the area runners coming on attack the ball, Short gets her head on the ball knocking it down towards goal, Berger is well placed right behind it makes a comfortable save. 

  Heatherson defends well tracking back into the area against Brazil right side as Stringer looks to slide her in on goal. The clearance gathered by Stringer tries to pick out Ayisi inside the box, no room to turn back to Stringer goes longer with the cross, Walsh under it calls and claims. Ayisi is brought down by Lawrence 30 yards from goal, Haines to take it a central position goes for goal puts her shot straight at Walsh.

 Into injury time in the 1st half Yeovil have defended well but have had little opportunity to attack the Birmingham goal Quinn tussles with Westwood for the ball in the centre circle coming away with it as Westwood goes down holding her face, the attacker drives forwards heading for the area jinking left the right to make room for the shot sends her strike up over the crossbar.
 

Yeovil Town Ladies, Lucy Quinn

Half-time Birmingham City Ladies 0-0 Yeovil Town Ladies

 A change an the break for Yeovil with Cousins coming off, Jessie Jones coming on to join the midfield. Yeovil kick off the 2nd half, lose possession early on Hegerberg on for Ayisi a driving run towards the box her shot charged down by Jones. Brave goalkeeping from Walsh saving at point blank range from Haines inside the six yard box as the ball is played long from the left knocked in towards goal the foul given against the goalkeeper. 

Freda Ayisi looking to bring the ball down for Birmingham

  A good claim from Berger inside her area off a Bleazard free-kick on halfway. Haines works herself free with the ball in the middle rolling it on for Hegerberg strikes from outside the box her low drive gathered cleanly by Walsh inside her six yard box. A lot of effort being put in from both sides to close the ball down, possession changing hands without any progress being made. Stringer wriggling free on the right sends it up towards Brazil, is tackled by Short. Williams with the ball on the left outside the area 25 yards out looks to go for goal her strike wide beyond the far post.

  Lawrence looks to thread the ball through the middle for Quinn ahead of her, she is brought down 30 yards from goal. Bleazard closer in this time goes for the shot placing her attempt wide of the top corner. James battling for the ball comes away with it central on halfway moving right fires it down the line for Quinn, Mannion goes with the attacker getting across her marshals the ball back to her keeper to clear.  

Yeovil Town Ladies, Nadia Lawrence

  On the hour mark Birmingham make their 1st change, Rachel Williams coming on replacing Ayisi up front. Yeovil make another change too, Sarah Wiltshire on to join their attack with Curson coming off. Paige Williams looks to combine with Rachel Williams on the left the ball rolled forwards for the striker into the area her cross cut out. Momentum building Birmingham play the ball left to right for Stringer going on has Sargeant coming on in support playing the ball back to her the defender opens up her body to slide the pass into the area with Rachel Williams moving to the right, she is tackled by Jones the ball put out for a corner. An inswinging delivery the ball is headed clear of the six yard box falling straight at Hegerberg on the edge of the area left of the D strikes the ball back in on the volley putting it wide of the post.

  Birmingham have the power and pace of Rachel Williams now running directly at the Yeovil defence wins a corner the ball put into the area, twice Yeovil block attempted shots, the ball eventually coming to Paige Williams left outside the area her cross/shot back in towards the far stick goes over. Birmingham make another change Westwood coming off in the 67th minute replaced by Sarah Mayling who takes up a wide right position Stringer moving inside Ewers joining the defence.

  Mayling with room on the right plays a good ball long into the area for Brazil back to goal bringing it down well volleys over. Jones heads another Mayling back into the area away gathered by James the midfield carries it on attempts to put Quinn away through the middle a timely interception by Mannion for Birmingham. Mayling is having an instance impact on the game getting forwards wide right sends another great ball in towards the far post Rachel Williams dropping off her marker in the six yard box gets up to knock the ball down towards goal, Walsh throwing herself the the right makes the save look easy.

  

Yeovil Town Ladies goalkeeper, Megan Walsh

  Birmingham have Yeovil on the back foot pressing forwards the visitors holding firm putting in the blocks, get forwards the ball into the left channel Quinn goes after it is fouled by Berger as the goalkeeper comes out of her area, is shown a yellow card. Bleazard's free-kick is put long a little to high for Wiltshire to bring down the striker keeps hold of the ball has Rachel Williams in close attendance, a good tussle between the two Wiltshire looks to knock the ball in behind cut the cross in from the byline Williams prevents the cross leaning on Wiltshire who appeals for the penalty but the referee waves play on. 

  Yeovil make their 3rd and final change with 15 minutes left on the clock, Leah Burridge coming on to replace Haigh at the back. A few niggly fouls being given away Birmingham a little frustrated that they cannot get the ball into the back of the Yeovil net. The home side make their final substitution Haines the player taken off, Charlie Wellings coming on.Birmingham launch a counter attack from a Yeovil set-piece the ball into Stringer played up field for Brazil she is challenged by James the ball going out for a throw in. 

  Wiltshire goes to lob the keeper as the ball is rolled across to her in space 35 yards out getting her foot up and over the ball launches it into the air, Berger has time to judge it's flight and as it drops short inside her six yard box gathers the ball. Mannion brings the ball forwards from the back Birmingham attacking with intent want to get that opening goal that could well prove to be the match winner playing the ball into Mayling she slides it into the area with Wellings ahead of her squaring the ball across the six yard box Brazil can't connect as it races across her. 

  Walsh has been commanding in her area even as her defence drop deeper giving her little room to operate, calling and claiming the ball high in the air unfazed by Birmingham's attackers coming at her. Into injury time Birmingham pile players forwards the cross fired in from the right by Brazil drops for Rachel Williams far post sends her header over the bar. A collision in the box sees Short knocked to the ground is taken of after treatment on the pitch Yeovil to try and see the closing minutes out with 10 players. Is all Birmingham at the end Yeovil have everyone back in defence the final whistle blows and the points are shared.

Full time Birmingham City Ladies 0-0 Yeovil Town Ladies

   A valuable point earned in their final match of the Spring Series a welcome one too for Yeovil giving them far more to take into the new season than going the entire campaign without anything in the final column of the league table. A battling performance plenty of grit and determination the longer the game wore on to keep their goal intact. Little going forwards Birmingham rarely troubled up the other end. A frustrating performance from Birmingham will feel they did everything but find that one crucial strike had the majority of the attack creating chances. Striking the bar twice, needing that one clinical finish it wasn't to be, plenty of options going forwards they will score more often than not.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

 A difficult one this to chose tonight's SWF Blog - Player of the Match a few contenders from both sides, thought Coral-Jade Haines did well for Birmingham in the middle of the park, Abbey-Leigh  Stringer was excellent too attacking right side. For Yeovil, their defence put in a real shift backed up well by Megan Walsh, am choosing centre back Hannah Short who made a number of blocks and well timed tackles throughout the game.

 One more game to go, back at Birmingham on Saturday for their final Spring Series game v Chelsea Ladies... then I can have a rest.

Match Report - Arsenal Ladies v Birmingham City Ladies

 A double header from The Hive this afternoon, up first Arsenal Ladies take on Birmingham City Ladies in the FAWSL 1 Spring Series.

  The Spring Series a one off competition being held to bridge the gap between now and the FAWSL switching to a winter format to return back in line with the rest of the women's football winter period. A good decision? We will see. Each team to play each other once for the Spring Series title. Everyone a fixture down due to the sad news of Notts County Ladies folding. Ironically one of the reasons for the switch was the poor fixture scheduling the season spread out to long, yet the FAWSL 1 Spring Series will be played in just over 6 weeks. 

  That means the fixtures are flying by the Spring Series well underway most sides already halfway through their fixtures. Liverpool Ladies who have recruited well over the close season leading the table with 4 wins and a draw from 5 played. 

  Arsenal Ladies are currently 4th in the table undefeated but off the pace of the leaders with 3 draws and a win from their 4 games played so far. A win today would left them into 2nd over Chelsea Ladies and Manchester City Ladies who play later in the weekend.

  Birmingham City Ladies began the Spring Series with a new manager in place, Marc Skinner taking over from the long serving David Parker. Got off to a great start reaching the FA Women's Cup Final, beaten at Wembley by Manchester City Women. Currently in 6th place  in the table with 5 points from the 4 games they've played like Arsenal Ladies have the opportunity to go 2nd today.

  The games coming thick and fast both sides have large squads and are using them. Birmingham having already signed striker Ellen White from Notts County Ladies before their collapse have also added former player Rachel Williams to the squad, having started on the bench on Wednesday in Birmingham's 2-0 win at home to Bristol City Women, starts against Arsenal today. 

  Arsenal have also strengthened their squad over the close season, the return of Kim Little delighting their fans. Have also recruited recently retired USA International, Heather O'Reilly and Sunderland AFC Ladies hotshot Beth Mead to add fire to their attack. Irish International defender Louise Quinn also joining after never getting to kick a competitive ball for Notts County. 

  Today's game at The Hive, Arsenal using the ground with Borehamwood's Meadow Park unavailable. A great surface to play on the West Stand opposite the changing rooms and Pecking Order Restaurant open to the match. The best way to describe the weather, changeable. Bright and sunny one moment heavy showers the next one downpour coming just before the game.

Sunshine one minute showers the next, Coral Haines enjoying the warm-up

  Arsenal Ladies starting XI - Anna Moorhouse, Alex Scott (C), Leah Williamson, Lotte Wubben-Moy, Anna Patten, Fara Williams, Jordan Nobbs, Heather O'Reilly, Danielle Carter, Danielle Van de Donk & Beth Mead.
  subs -  Sari Van Veenendaal, Louise Quinn, Dominique Janssen, Carla Humphrey, Kim Little, Chloe Kelly & Jodie Taylor.

  Birmingham City Ladies starting XI - Sophie Baggaley, Meghan Sargeant, Paige Williams, Emily Westwood (C), Aoife Mannion, Abbey Stringer, Sarah Mayling, Jess Carter, Adrine Hederberg, Ellie Brazil & Rachel Williams.
  subs - Coral Haines, Kerys Harrop, Chloe Peplow, Freya Ayisi & Sian Johnson.

 Dry with the sun out as the two sides walk out onto the pitch, it's Birmingham to get the game underway, taking the kick-off wearing and all blue strip with white trim, with Arsenal lined up opposite wearing red shirts with white across the shoulders and sleeves, white shorts and red socks.

  GOAL! A fantastic start to the game from Birmingham as they score inside the opening minute. The ball played long out to the right wing is worked down the pitch the ball is sent into the box a great delivery coming in across the face of goal, Rachel Williams gets up to power her header into the back of the net open her account for the Spring Series and score on her return to the club 1-0.

  Paige Williams operating on the left for Birmingham carries the ball forwards sends a long diagonal ball trying to pick put Sarah Mayling on the opposite side, the ball is retrieved on the byline cut back into the area, Rachel Williams after it is tackled by Lotte Wubben-Moy, Arsenal get the ball clear. A shaky start from Arsenal, Birmingham pressing early have started well.

 Jordan Nobbs has the ball for Arsenal fired forwards into Beth Mead, outside the box back to goal has Leah Williamson coming on available for the pass lays the ball back into her, striking the ball from 30 yards out is on target, goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley is right behind the shot takes it cleanly for Birmingham. 

  A bit of hesitation at the back from Arsenal sees Birmingham striker Ellie Brazil rob Anna Patten knocking the ball on into the area goes after it, Anna Moorhouse in goal for Arsenal is quick to respond getting out to the striker win the race for the ball making the claim.

Goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse can reach the ball before Birmingham's Ellie Brazil

  The game has settled a little Arsenal beginning to get hold of the ball higher up the pitch, the pass from the middle finds Heather O'Reilly on the move into space down the left whips a high cross into the box, Jess Carter coming back to help defend gets her head on the ball near post and gets plenty of clearance with her header. Mead charges down a back pass to Baggaley inside the box Nobbs onto the ball 25 yards out fires her shot over the bar. Up the other end Rachel Williams battling to win the ball plays it out to Paige Williams on the left goes for the shot from distance her effort whistling over the bar.

Birmingham City Ladies, Abbey Stringer

  Rachel Williams closing the Arsenal defence down as they are caught in possession at the back again gets in behind left side of the box lets fly shooting across the keeper, Moorhouse gets her fingertips to the ball putting it over for the corner kick. From the right the ball goes long picked up by Rachel Williams she fires a return ball across the face of goal no one connects picked up by Adrine Hegerberg is put in towards the top of the area Birmingham captain Emily Westwood meets it hitting the ball hard rising smashes against the crossbar dropping down into the six yard box, Moorhouse is able to claim it. All this in the opening 10 minutes of the match.

  Arsenal get forwards on the left O'Reilly winning a corner, defended at the near post a 2nd corner the result. The delivery longer this time Westwood getting her head on the ball knocks it out to the edge of the area, Danielle Van de Donk bringing it down shifts the ball between her feet gets a shot away puts it straight into Baggaley. From one end to the other as Rachel Williams helps Baggaley's goal kick on with Brazil away to the left reaching the top of the area her shot lacking any pace is easily gathered by Moorhouse.

 Patten comes across puts in a good tackle on Hegerberg as she is released through the middle as Rachel Williams wins the ball. Fara Williams brings the ball on through the centre for Arsenal spreads the play out to the left with Williamson getting forwards taking the ball into the corner sends a high ball into the area, Aoife Mannion heads the ball behind for Birmingham. The visitors deal with the initial delivery into the area but don't get the ball away won by Van de Donk the ball is put back out to Nobbs wide right, her cross into the area goes long just a little too high for the leaping Wubben-Moy at the far post.

  Arsenal captain, Alex Scott comes away with the ball at the after being caught losing a shin pad in the process, has also gained a nasty cut on her shin which requires treatment on the side lines leaving Arsenal temporarily down to 10.  Williamson comes on down the left supporting O'Reilly the cross comes in cleared by Birmingham falls to Mead 25 yards out left of the D rolls her marker before sending in a low shot, Baggaley gets down low and right behind it makes the save.

Arsenal Ladies captain, Alex Scott coming away with the ball
minus her shin pad 

  Another cross in from the left from O'Reilly, Baggaley coming for it near post misses the ball hitting her drops favourably straight at Westwood's feet the defender clears. A spell of pressure from Arsenal, Van De Donk and O'Reilly linking up from the resulting corner the ball from the right up the line for Fara Williams her cross long for O'Reilly far side top of the area fires it back into the mix headed away by Mannion. Arsenal retrieve Danielle Carter fouled as she tried to get into the area. A dangerous position 25 yards out right of the D, Fara Williams to take her strike comes flying it smashes against the crossbar top corner, the closest Arsenal have gotten to levelling the scores as the game approaches the half hour mark. 

  O'Reilly comes close as the ball comes into her inside the D from Nobbs off a throw on the right, seeing the ball run across her body hits it on the turn, the shot flying wide of the top corner. Carter with a mazy run taking the ball inside from the right crosses from the top of the area the ball cleared far post by Meghan Sargeant for Birmingham. Arsenal upping the tempo as the 1st half enters the final 10 minutes. Van de Donk is clipped as she looks to bring the ball on through the centre. Nobbs to clip the ball up into the box, Westwood wins it for Birmingham.

Birmingham City Ladies, Meghan Sargeant

  Carter and O'Reilly switch sides for the final 5 minutes of the 1st half. Williamson comes forwards linking up with Nobbs they play the one two Williamson going on sends a cross in near post Carter with the header stooping into the ball sending it goalwards, Baggaley makes a fine save tipping the ball wide for the corner. Taken short the diagonal ball in from the top of the area flashes wide of the far post.

  GOAL! 3 minutes left on the clock in the 1st half and Arsenal having been getting close find the back of the net for the equalising goal. It's Van de Donk who sets up the goal picking up the ball inside the Birmingham half central slides a great ball in behind the defence with O'Reilly timing her run superbly left of goal taking it into the box, slides her shot past the advancing Baggaley and into the back of the net beyond 1-1.

Heather O'Reilly levels the scores for Arsenal Ladies

   A minute of added on time Arsenal come again down the left wing the ball clipped up into the area, cleared out of the box picked up by Nobbs hits a low drive back in, Baggaley right behind the shot able to gather.

Half-time Arsenal Ladies 1-1 Birmingham City Ladies

  A fantastic start to the game for Birmingham City Ladies taking the lead inside the opening minute, looked strong in the opening 15 minutes putting the Arsenal defence which looked a little tentative under pressure. Arsenal eventually growing into the game getting some confidence going forwards came close through Fara Williams and O'Reilly before the latter levelled it up 3 minutes before half-time. An entertaining 1st half.

  The sunshine and showers continue a wet interval the sun back out for the start of the 2nd half Arsenal getting the game back underway. Danielle Carter on the ball early on for Arsenal driving forwards down the right side before sending in a cross towards the near post too close to Baggaley the keeper claiming the ball. 

  Fara Williams coming on with the ball passes to Mead top of the area back to ball holds off Mannion before laying it out to Carter on the move past her down the right her cross goes long across the six yard box, gathered well by O'Reilly far post shoots, the ball cleared off the line by Sargeant. Isn't clear a scramble inside the box somehow Birmingham keep the ball out.

  A bright start to match the sunshine in the 2nd half from Arsenal. An ambitious effort from Mead as she gets hold of the ball deep runs with it shooting from 25 yards out the ball flies over Baggaley is just inches over the crossbar beyond. 

 GOAL! 8 minutes into the 2nd half and Arsenal take the lead. Van de Donk is played in behind the Birmingham defence by Carter on the right taking the ball on towards the area right of goal, Baggaley comes rushing out sliding in, Van de Donk keeps her composure taking the ball around the keeper and in behind sends the ball into the back of the net 2-1.

Arsenal Ladies, Danielle Van de Donk

  GOAL! The response from Birmingham is immediate as they get up the other end from the restart and equalise. Rachel Williams netting her 2nd of the match following great work from Paige Williams on the left side plays a great ball into the near post, Between defender and goalkeeper Williams puts her head in bravely as all three collide and end up on the floor the ball landing in the back of the net 2-2.

Rachel Williams getting treatment after levelling the scores for Birmingham

  Moorhouse gets slowly to her feet, Williams and defender Wubben-Moy are both okay to continue. The scores level with 60 minutes gone. Changes for both sides, Birmingham bring off Brazil up top send on Freya Ayisi. Arsenal make a double switch, Fara Williams and Scott replaced by Jodie Taylor and Louise Quinn. Going into the centre of defence Patten moves to left back with Williamson pushed on into midfield. 

Arsenal's Jordan Nobbs with Birmingham's Jess Carter

  A free-kick awarded to Arsenal midway inside the Birmingham half wide right Nobbs to send forwards is headed on by Mead goes long across the face of goal a corner appealed for and given. The ball swung in from the left comes in towards the far post Sargeant deals with it for Birmingham. 

   Rachel Williams very nearly gets her hat-trick for Birmingham as they play the ball forwards with purpose switched right to left as Mayling brings it on, Williams through on goal central lets fly with a stinging drive from outside the area, Moorhouse making a fantastic save gloving the ball down then claiming it as Ayisi looks to steal in on the follow up.

Birmingham City Ladies, Sarah Mayling

  Arsenal press forwards the Birmingham defence standing firm, Nobbs shot from 25 yards cut out. No room for Van de Donk as she receives the ball from Mead at the top of the area tackled by Mannion. Ayisi plays the ball on for Mayling coming forwards down the right shots from distance, Moorhouse can see the ball run wide of her goal. Another change for Birmingham, Kerys Harrop coming on for Rachel Williams, taking up a left back role Paige Williams pushed further forwards.

 GOAL! Birmingham's Carter fouls Nobbs. Over the free-kick inside the Birmingham half on the right is a long way out, players go forwards from the back into the area. Is a superb delivery from Nobbs the ball flighted up into the six yard box, players attack the ball Quinn gets her head on the ball to send it into the back of the net giving Arsenal the lead in the 75th minute with her 1st goal for the club 3-2.

Louise Quinn, scores her 1st goal for Arsenal Ladies

  Birmingham make their final change bringing off Hegerberg sending on Coral Haines with less than 10 minutes left to play. Mead gets hold of the ball for Arsenal letting fly from outside the box her effort over the bar. Mead's last action of the game as she is replaced by Chloe Kelly. Jess Carter looks to get forwards for Birmingham attacking down the right, tracked by O'Reilly who supported by Patten prevent the cross coming in. 

Arsenal press late on Kelly with a chance shooting over the bar from the left as the ball is rolled out to her by Nobbs from Taylor's lay off inside the box. 5 minutes added time at the end of the 2nd half.

 GOAL! Arsenal ensure the 3 points are won scoring again in injury time from a corner won on the left another great delivery swung across the six yard box attacked in the centre, Quinn up again her header past Baggaley to score her 2nd of the game 4-2.

Louise Quinn heading the ball in for her 2nd of the match

 Birmingham get forwards from the restart a free-kick wide left outside the box Paige Williams on it the ball delivered centrally, Taylor back defending for Arsenal head the ball clear. One last chance to put the ball forwards for the visitors, Kelly fouling Westwood inside their half Baggaley on the ball plays it long up to the top of the area Quinn wins the header as the final whistle blows and Arsenal celebrate the win.

Full time Arsenal Ladies 4-2 Birmingham City Ladies

  An entertaining match, plenty of action from both sides, Birmingham with their fantastic start had Arsenal pinned back early on but eventually they came back to equalise late in the 1st half. Started the better 2nd half going in front Birmingham with an immediate response defended well for the majority however that defence will be upset at conceding from two set-pieces great deliveries for both goals for Quinn.

Arsenal Ladies, Jordan Nobbs

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

  Today's SWF Blog - Player of the Match goes to Arsenal Ladies Jordan Nobbs once the midfielder got into her stride she caused Birmingham problems with her movement always a box to box type of player with Williams behind her can concentrate on the attacking aspect of her game always available for the ball involved in most attacking build ups a good all round performance.