FAWSL 2 - Spring Series Preview

   A new season of FAWSL football starts this weekend, however it is a prelude, a one off event as the league prepares to return back to the traditional winter season in line with the rest of the women's football pyramid after 5 years of playing during the summer months. To bridge the gap between seasons the sides will play a Spring Series, both FAWSL 1 and 2, with FAWSL 2 getting underway on Saturday with London Bees who kicked off the 1st ever FAWSL 2 match back in 2014 playing league newcomers Brighton & Hove Albion WFC at The Hive. 

  Mixed feelings certainly, always a casual fan of the women's game the inception of the FAWSL in 2011 really got me involved falling in love with the game, initially a supporter of Lincoln Ladies, anyone who has read the blog knows where the journey has taken me since. In the early seasons feel the FAWSL was going in the right direction, latter seasons lost its way, with chaotic fixture scheduling that wasn't good for players or their fans. Can't deny attendances have grown hugely positive in that regards and hope that they will continue to do so, moving back to the winter has its challenges, know how it can work, but whether it does is another matter I'm an optimist. Before then however we have the Spring Series. 

  The Spring Series will see all the teams from FAWSL 2 play each other once between the season opener on Feb 11th till Sun 21st May. The FAWSL 1 kick-off isn't till April and that preview will be saved for a later date. For now the focus is on FAWSL 2. The Spring Series has been described as an extended pre-season with the 10 sides in the division more or less playing friendlies. A trophy for the top side of course, nothing to lose at the other end of the table. I would disagree and am excited by the Spring Series actually think it will be a very useful exercise for all the clubs. 

  An opportunity to bed in new players, try new things, play without pressure to a degree afterall a good run in the Spring Series could carry momentum into the 2017/18 season. May or may not give an indication as to how things may go later in the year guess that comes down to how you gauge things? Suspect it will benefit, Brighton & Hove Albion WFC the most as it will give the newly promoted side time to find their feet in the new league. Took Sheffield FC Ladies a few games to get going in FAWSL 2 last season, improving in the latter half of the season. Watford Ladies too following their recent troubles as they look to rebuild following a troubling period recently. Will come on to both further in the preview below a look at each club, the In's and Out's and so forth. Predictions? I think I'll keep them to myself for the Spring Series. 

Aston Villa Ladies

 Head Coach - Joe Hunt

 Players In - Alice Hassall (Notts County Ladies)

 New Contracts - Bethan Merrick, Jade Richards Elisha N'Dow, Mollie Rouse, Amy West, Katy Moran, Chloe Jones, Maddy Cusack, Hannah George, Chloe Beattie, Tash Baptiste, Kerri Welsh, Lucy Porter, Lucy Shephard, Alys Hinchcliffe, Grace Smith, Nicola Potts

 Players Out - Sarah Mayling (Birmingham City Ladies)

 

Mollie Rouse an excellent 1st season with the
Aston Villa Ladies 1st team

Aston Villa Ladies have on the whole retained the services of much of their squad from last season with the exception of Sarah Mayling joining Birmingham City Ladies. Have a young and exciting squad and players coming through from the youth sides. Mollie Rouse came into the side last season from the youth set-up and did very well for the 1st team will be an influential player this time around to an England Youth International, two more make the step up to 1st team football for the Spring Series, Lucy Porter and Lucy Shephard. Alice Hassall is another England Youth International joins the club from Notts County Ladies and played very well for Aston Villa Ladies in the FA Women's Cup last weekend. 

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC

Brighton & Hove Albion WFC celebrating the FAWPL Play-off win to earn promotion to the FAWSL

Head Coach - George Parris (interim manager)

Players In - Emma Byrne (Arsenal Ladies), Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg, Alessia Russo (all Chelsea Ladies), Sophie Perry (Reading FC Women)

Players Out - Lily Agg (Bristol City Women)

  Winning last May's FAWPL Play-off match to earn their place in the FAWSL 2, FAWPL Southern Division Champions make their league bow this Saturday in the Spring Series. Retaining much of the squad that won the title last season have added highly experienced Irish International goalkeeper, Emma Byrne from Arsenal Ladies to their squad with Faye Baker recovering from injury available. Sophie Perry returns to the club after a short spell with Reading FC Women, along with Laura Rafferty, Jenna Legg and Alessia Russo joining from Chelsea Ladies. As I said I think Brighton will benefit the most from the Spring Series as it will give them the time to adapt to playing at a higher level and prepare them well for the 2017/18 season later in the year.

Doncaster Rovers Belles

Head Coach - Emma Coates

Players In - Sophie Walton (released by Notts County Ladies), Mayumi Pacheco, Kirsty Hanson (both Liverpool Ladies)

New Contracts - Emily Simpkins, Sophie Barker, Samantha Tierney, Rachel Newborough

Players Out - Katrin Omarsdottir, Sue Smith, Carla Humphrey  (end of loan Arsenal Ladies)

Mayumi Pacheco impressed on loan last season,
makes the moves to Doncaster permanent 

  After winning promotion back to FAWSL 1 last season I was opptimistic that Doncaster Rovers Belles would not only be safe from relegtion but even challenge for a place in the top half of the table. Got it completely wrong as did so many other. Having signed some high profile names and having a very strong looking attack things just didn't work out early losses saw the depature of manager Glen Harris. Emma Coates taking over as Head Coach. Were unlucky with injuries up front, top scorer last season Courtney Sweetman-Kirk fracturing her leg in a friendly. Sue Smith was out injured all season, Natasha Dowie left and late on Jessica Sigsworth was ruled out too. Doncaster Rovers Belles nearly went the entire season without a point on the board finally getting a win away to Reading FC Women 0n the last day of the season. Relegated back to FAWSL 2 the Spring Series gives them the opportunity to get rid of any relegation blues. Have a strong squad, Sweetman-Kirk, not getting the opportunity to shine in FAWSL 1 is a proven striker in FAWSL 2 and back to full fitness. Defender, Mayumi Pacheco was a stand-out player coming in on loan from Liverpool Ladies has now signed with the club on a permanent basis. Sophie Walton also joins after being released by Notts County Ladies, having recently had a baby she is working her way back to full fitness and will be a very good addition to their squad. 

Durham FC Women

Head Coach - Lee Sanders

Players In - Grace McCatty (Bristol City Women), Zoe Ness (Mallbackens IF)

New Contracts - Sarah McFadden, Emily Roberts, Sarah Wilson, Jen Jennings, Natalie Gutteridge, Rebecca Salicki, Helen Alderson, Nicola Gibson, Ellie Christon, Annabel Johnson, Beth Hepple, Nicki Gears, Tyler Dodds, Jordan Atkinson, Rachel Lee, Megan Brothwick, Mercy Darkoah

Players Out - 

  Durham FC Women are a side that has grown as the FAWSL 2 has developed, getting better year on year and involved in the race for the title for a good portion of last season will be strong again this time round in the Spring Series. Have again retained much of their squad from last season. Have made two signings bringing in former Bristol City Women captain, Grace McCatty although she has undergone surgery recently and is unlikely to future in the Spring Series, aiming to be ready for the new 2017/18 season. A wealth of experience is fantastic signing for Durham. Also signing for Durham is Zoe Ness returning to the club after 2  years playing in Sweden for Mallbackens IF. Had a great debut season FAWSL 2 for Durham in 2014 the Scottish International will be one to look out for in 2017.

Everton Ladies

Head Coach - Andy Spence

Players In - Amber Stobbs (Reading FC Women) Olivia Chance (Breidablik)

New Contracts -

Players Out - Ellie Stewart (Blackburn Rovers Ladies), Millie Turner (Bristol City Ladies) Jenna Dear, Rosella Ayane (end of loan Chelsea Ladies)

  Missed out on promotion to FAWSL 1 last season with a 3rd place finish pushing the eventual top two Yeovil Town Ladies and Bristol City Women all the way. A few departures
Ellie Stewart and Jenna Dear not having their contracts renewed. Millie Turner has signed for Bristol City Women. Have strong squad adding attackers Amber Stobbs and Olivia Chance to the front-line. Head Coach Andy Spence always looking to develop young players and bring them through into the 1st team the club will be amongst the contenders for the Spring Series trophy you would think.

London Bees

Head Coach - Dave Edmondson

Players In - Lucy Loomes (Millwall Lionesses), Anne Meiwald (Chelsea Ladies), Laura-May Walkley (Reading FC Women), Amber Tullett, Jordan Littleboy, Mollie Burgess (all Watford Ladies) Evie Clarke

Re-signed - Jo Wilson, Sophie Forgarty, Emma Beckett, Ashleigh Goddard, Paula Howells, Sophie Harris, Rebecca Anderson, Aoife Hurley 

Players Out - Anoria Georgiou, Danielle Scanlon, Deanna Cooper, Nikki Watts, Meghan McKeag (Watford Ladies)

 

Jordan Littleboy joins London Bees
for the Spring Series

Fair to say it took London Bees a while to find themselves in FAWSL 2. A difficult couple of 1st seasons with a high player turn over and managerial change, Dave Edmondson took on the role last season and London Bees found some stability and form playing so good attractive football with a memorable win over Chelsea Ladies in the Continental Cup along the way. Have resigned several of their top performers from last season, have strength in depth adding to the squad to bringing in Watford Ladies trio, Amber Tullett, Jordan Littleboy and Mollie Burgess. Lucy Loomes rejoins the club after a season with local rivals Millwall Lionesses. Anne Meiwald is a good signing from Chelsea Ladies and Laura-May Walkley brings with her experience from playing in FAWSL 1 with Reading FC Women. The Spring Series will give London Bees a platform to further improve and set themselves up for perhaps a promotion push when the 2017/18 season begins.

Millwall Lionesses

Head Coach - Lee Burch

Players In - Ellie Mason, Phoebe Read (both Watford Ladies), Sarah Kempson (Portsmouth FC Ladies)

Re-signed - Ashlee Hincks, Jordan Butler, Sarah Quantrill, Amber Gaylor, Megan Wynne, Billie Brooks, Leighanne Robe, Georgie Giddings, Leigh Nicol

Players Out - Lucy Loomes (London Bees) Rinsola Babajide (Watford Ladies)

 Striker Ellie Mason joins from Watford Ladies

  Millwall Lionesses have had a turbulent time in FAWSL 2 looking to have a strong competitve squad went it began have under-performed in recent seasons, player turn over and manager departures haven't helped. Have the makings of a decent squad and have resigned several key players from last season, adding Phoebe Read and Ellie Mason from Watford Ladies to bolster their attacking options having lost Lucy Loomes and Rinsola Babajide to their London rivals. Sarah Kempston also joins the club getting a chance to impress in the FAWSL having done very well in the FAWPL with Portsmouth FC Ladies. Momentum will play a vital role in the Spring Series and Millwall Lionesses could be a side to benefit from this one off competition.

Oxford United Women

Head Coach - Karl Milgate

Players In - Emily Donovan (Yeovil Town Ladies)

New Contracts - Jess Frampton, Sophie Baker, Madi Lee, Lauren Haynes, Holly Pickett, Riva Carsley, Ini Umotong

Players Out - Katherine Nutman, Hannah Cox (Oxford City Ladies)

   Oxford United Women ended up finishing 2nd bottom in FAWSL 2 last season which was something of a surprise especially when they had 13 goal striker Ini Umotong in their side. Had looked to have been improving season after season since the FAWSL 2 began in 2014 a set back in 2016. All change at the start of the Spring Series manager Les Turner departing, Karl Milgate takes of the Head Coaches role. Little player movement, club captain Kat Nutman leaving after 3 years with the club along with experienced goalkeeper Hannah Cox who joined Oxford City Ladies. Have signed Emily Donovan from Yeovil Town Ladies. Umotong re-signing with the club is a huge boost a powerful striker their opposition defenders will continuing leaving Abingdon with a few new bruises. The Spring Series a good opportunity for Milgate to assess his squad and prepare for the 2017/18 season.

Sheffield FC Ladies

Head Coach - Zoe Johnson

Players In - Natasha Flint, Lagan Makin (Flyde Ladies) Hannah Dale (Liverpool Ladies - loan)

New Contracts - Carla Ward, Juliana Draycott, Danielle Cox, Rhema Lord-Myers, Billie Murphy, Emma Johnson, Chloe Dixson, Sarah Jackson, Sherry McCue, Ellie Gilliatt, Emma Lipman, Hannah Cain, Sophie Jones, Suzanne Davies, Kennedy Owen

Players Out - Olivia Wild ( Flyde Ladies) Kirsty Hanson (end of loan Liverpool Ladies)

  The 1st side ever promoted to the FAWSL, Sheffield FC Ladies took a few games to find their feet in the league last season getting into better form late on in the campaign eventually sealing a top half finish. Will be looking to improve on this during the Spring Series and could be dark horses for top spot. Have retained the services of pretty much all last season's squad who have certainly grown after their debut season in the FAWSL. Have brought in Natasha Flint from Flyde Ladies, at Manchester City Women previously doing well for both will get the goals for Sheffield, Also joining Flint from Flyde is Lagan Makin with Hannah Dale joining on loan from Liverpool Ladies.

Watford Ladies

Head Coach - Keith Boanas

Players In - Cherrelle Albert, Rinsola Babajide (Millwall Lionesses), Leah Cudone (Milton Keynes Dons Ladies) Lilli Maple (Crystal Palace Ladies) Meghan McKeag, Vicky Neal

New Contracts - Ruby Baxter, Anneka Nuttall, Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Lucy Gillett, Charlotte Kerr, Lauren Jordinson, Chloe Bassett, Kerry Walklett, Caoimhe O'Reilly

Players Out - Anne-Laure Davy (ASJ Soyaux), Amber Tullett, Jordan Littleboy, Mollie Burgess (all London Bees)

15 goals from 21 appearances for
Leah Cudone for MK Dons Ladies
prior to joining Watford Ladies

  Well had I started writing this Preview a week ago then I' have been saying "Will Watford Ladies even be starting the Spring Series?" Forfeited their FA Women's Cup match away to Doncaster Rovers Belles last Sunday, it happens but this is an FAWSL side we are talking about. Players told they can leave find new clubs several have. I'm pleased to say there was much better news during the week starting with the appointment of a new head coach Keith Boanas. The highly experienced women's football coach returning to the English game after looking after the Estonian Women's National side in recent years. A real coop for Watford Ladies and a much needed slice of good news 2 difficult seasons seeing them finish bottom of FAWSL 2 this is a new beginning. With players departing the club announced just today who they had managed to retain and sign up for the Spring Series. 5 players from last seasons squad with 3 more from the youth set-up stepping up signed 5 more with experienced striker Cherrelle Albert coming in having previously represented Millwall Lionesses, West Ham United Ladies and QPR Ladies. A surprise but really exciting is the capture of young striker Rinsola Babajide from Millwall Lionesses a huge talent and threat in front of goal. Joining her in attack Leah Cudone getting her chance in the FAWSL after several prolific seasons in FAWPL South East Division One with Milton Keynes Dons Ladies doesn't go too many games without getting her name on the scoresheet leaves the club sitting top of the table having scored 15 goals from 21 appearances so far this season. Lilli Maple joins from Crystal Palace Ladies. Meghan McKeag has previously played for Watford Ladies. Defender Vicky Neal also joins Watford Ladies for the Spring Series had been with them in 2015 however a serious injury kept her from getting her chance in FAWSL 2 is a quality defender and it's good to see she will have another opportunity to show what she can do. The Spring Series now becomes a vital opportunity for the club to rebuild and move forwards.

  At the end of the Spring Series a Head Coach can say the season's only half finished which might sound odd but you've only played each other once so it's true, it'll be a case of continuing what they have acheived or improving sharply because come the 2017/18 season relegation is real. Sure their will be a few more In's and Out's to add will do so as they get announced. Will be interesting to see how the next few months unfold. Best of luck to the 10 sides involved.

   

FAWSL 2016 - The Final Day

   An FAWSL double on the final day of the 2016 season with the final round of games taking place for both leagues this Sunday, FAWSL 2 1st the final matches of the season kicking off at 2 with FAWSL 1 kicking off at 6. Sure plenty of FAWSL fans will be trying to take in 2 games, I'm no different having worked out the logistics have opted for a trip to Abingdon United FC to watch Oxford United Women v Bristol City Women with a 30 mile drive east down the M40 to watch Reading FC Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles.

  FAWSL 2 - Oxford United Women v Bristol City Women

  Across the 2 FAWSL leagues pretty much everything is settled, 2 sides going up from FAWSL 2 to the top tier this season again, is a South West double too with both Yeovil Town Ladies and Bristol City Women winning last weekend to confirm the 2 promotion spots. All that remains is to decide which one of the two will go up as Champions. Felt that 40 points would be enough to secure promotion from the league this time around and with both on 36 points it will be less than that. Yeovil Town have a 6 goal advantage on goal difference so hold the advantage as they entertain, Sheffield FC Ladies at Huish Park. Drop points and Bristol City Women can capitalise so long as they get the right result away to Oxford United Women. A winning scoreline of 6 or more than Yeovil could also hand Bristol the title if both sides were to win.

  Saw them in action for only the 1st time this season away to Everton Ladies just over a week ago, 2nd v 3rd at the time with a 2 point gap between the 2 sides a win would seal Bristol City Women's promotion bouncing back after relegation last term. Got themselves into a 3-1 lead 2nd half before a late Everton Ladies fightback threatened to put the celebrations on hold, Caitlin Leach saving a 98th minute penalty to see Bristol City Women win 3-2 and secure promotion. 

  Finishing in 6th place in the FAWSL 2 table last season, Oxford United Women looked to have a platform to build upon for this season push further up the table. Needed to add a proven goalscorer to their squad did so bringing in Ini Umatong from Portsmouth FC Ladies and she has scored goals is the FAWSL top scorer with 13 goals to her name. The results haven't come with the goals and 4 defeats worse off than they were last season Oxford are 2nd bottom. 

  Abingdon United FC's stadium on Northcourt Road the venue for today's match a good crowd in attendance for the final home game of the season. Oxford's sister clubs playing at the ground before the match. A chilly day at the start of November with dark clouds dominating the sky.

 Oxford United Women starting XI - Demi Lambourne, Jess Frampton, Riva Casley, Rosie Lane, Madi Lee, Lauren Haynes, Katherine Nutman (C), Katja Hakala, Holly Pickett, Georgia Timms & Ini Umotong.
 subs - Hannah Cox, Ella Franklin-Fraiture, Sophie Barker, Charlie Deeley & Zoe Chung.

 Bristol City Women starting XI - Caitlin Leach, Megan Alexander, Flo Allen, Hayley Ladd (C), Frankie Brown, Chloe Arthur, Jodie Brett, Eloise Wilson, Clare Emslie, Georgia Evans & Millie Farrow.
 subs - Hannah Reid, Olivia Fergusson, Paige Sawyer, Emily Syme, Katie Jones, Poppy Wilson, Lily Woodham.

  Oxford get the 1st half underway wearing yellow shirts with navy shorts and socks, Bristol lined up opposite wearing a red kit. The visitors get after the ball straight from the start, hustling Oxford out of possession on the right Eloise Wilson sends the ball on for Millie Farrow to chase into the channel, getting the ball on the byline plays an early cross into the box, Oxford goalkeeper, Demi Lambourne, parrying the ball away with her gloves near post to concede an early corner. Played into captain Hayley Ladd top of the area, helps it through to the far side the shot far side along the ground is off target.

  Bristol's Jodie Brett, latches onto the ball from a goal-kick drives forwards through the centre, over runs the ball as she trips, manages to get back onto the ball lay it out to the left, Chloe Arthur receiving the ball shoots from 20 yards out her effort flying over the crossbar. All Bristol early on pushing players forwards with purpose, Wilson with an inswinging cross on the right looking to pick out Farrow, Oxford's Rosie Lane clears. Lane is on hand to put the tackle in on Farrow inside the D as the ball is played into her by Claire Emslie as she bursts down the left wing cutting inside with the ball at her feet.

Bristol City Women's
Frankie Brown

  Up top for Oxford, Ini Umatong is seeing little of the ball Oxford looking to pick her out Lauren Hayes in the centre of midfield gets the ball into her, a long way out back to goal she tries to spin in behind but is closely marked by Frankie Brown in the centre of the Bristol defence. Emslie with the ball at her feet on the left drives on down the wing moving into the box tries to lay the ball back into Arthur, Oxford's Riva Casley makes a timely tackle to win the ball. 

  A corner to Bristol on the left taken quickly the ball up to the top of the area is whipped into the six yard box, Wilson jumps but can't meet the ball sails into Georgia Evans at the far post puts it into the side netting. Oxford captain Katherine Nutman is back to help her defence as Bristol full back Flo Allen getting forwards sends a cross into the box from the right. On the opposite flank Emslie surges down the left wing shoots aiming near post, Lambourne holds onto the ball near post.




  GOAL! Emslie likes to have the ball at her feet drive at players and her solo run and strike ends with a goal for Bristol on 12 minutes. Picks the ball up 40 yards out carrying it on coming inside shoots as she reaches the top of the area a low drive that flies past the diving Lambourne into the bottom corner of the net. 0-1.

Driving forwards with the ball, Claire Emslie opens the scoring for Bristol

  Bristol keep coming forwards, Allen linking up with Wilson on the right get the corner. Goes long is cleared by Umatong far post heading the ball back out to the right, Oxford look to clear their box, Brett plays the ball back in from the right her cross/shot kissing the crossbar drops into the six yard box for Millie Farrow, sends a looping header towards goal drops kindly into Lambourne's gloves. Oxford with a rare attack the ball out to Katja Hakala on the right wing gets in behind Megan Alexander crosses into the box, too close to Bristol goalkeeper Caitlin Leach who claims the ball at her near post.

  Up the other end Lambourne is tested by a 25 yard strike from Emslie, holds onto the ball. Bristol continue their onslaught, players pushing forwards Wilson and Emslie right and left getting the ball into the Oxford box. Oxford have a free-kick inside the Bristol half as Umatong is followed, Haynes plays the set-piece into the Bristol area far post looking for Umatong, the Bristol defence get it away from danger. 

 GOAL! Closing in on the half hour mark Bristol double their lead have a corner on the left following another determined run on the ball from Emslie. Will go down as an own goal the corner on the left taken quickly into the top of the area, helped on towards the far post area the ball strikes a back peddling defender inside the six yard box, Lambourne throws herself on the ball trying to keep it out but her momentum sees the ball cross the line the goal awarded 0-2.

  GOAL! Bristol go further into the lead straight from the restart winning the ball the pass is into Brett she runs through the middle with the ball surging into the box going right whips the cross in across the six yard box, Emslie coming in far post makes contact with the ball squeezing her header between defender and goalkeeper into the back of the net 0-3.

  Emslie on the ball again driving on down the left side cutting inside rolls the ball into Brett racing through the middle unleashes a shot from 20 yards, Lambourne dives to her right making the save pushing the ball away for a corner. The header from the corner far post is off target. Hakala coming on up the right for Oxford, has Umatong coming across to support her right side in the box, given the ball tries to lay it back for the advancing Haynes, Ladd steps into win the ball. Emslie on the move down the left has Farrow inside the box near side gives her the ball on the run tries to lob the ball over Lambourne the keeper snatches the ball down out of the air.

  Umatong is a hard player to shake off the ball,Holly Pickett plays the ball into her from the left she turns inside running across the front of the Bristol box, reverses the ball sending it in on goal running along the ground, Leach isn't troubled as she puts her foot on the ball. Arthur plays the ball on down the right for Wilson, Jess Frampton tackles winning the ball back tries to bring is out is fouled by Arthur. Close to being a penalty conceded by Frampton moments later as she trips Farrow inside the D just outside the box as she tries to wriggle her way into the area. Brett over the set-piece goes for goal over the bar, a hearts in the mouth moment for the supporters cars who are parked behind the goal.

   GOAL! Into stoppage at the end of the 1st half and having forced Leach into making her 1st save of the match in the Bristol goal the visitors counter attack the ball sent out to Emslie on the left a powerful run forwards plays the ball into the box, Farrow racing in near post headers the ball into the back of the net 0-4. Referee Sian Massey-Ellis signals the end of the 1st half.

Half-time Oxford United Women 0-4 Bristol City Women

  A dominant 1st half display sees Bristol with a comfortable and deserved 4-0 lead, if they are to out score Yeovil to the title they are well on their way there, their rivals with a 1-0 lead at half-time. A few spots of rain in the air as the two sides come out for the 2nd half Bristol getting things underway. Are on the attack early on Brett nips in to take the ball pushes on crossing the ball along the D tries to pick out Farrow, Haynes steps across her to win the ball. Brett moving out to the left side with the ball cuts it back inside for Emslie, 25 yards out looks to curl a shot into the top corner, the ball flies over the bar.

  Emslie on the move left side fires in a low drive towards the near post is deflected of Casley as she attempts to block, Lambourne making a smart save the ball behind for the corner kick. The set-piece is cleared far post put back across goal, Evans playing it back into the mix for Bristol, Umatong back defending heads clear. Allen goes on the overlap past Wilson on the right delivers a cross into the box, Lambourne claiming it near post. 

Oxford's Ini Umatong with Frankie Brown

  The rain is starting to fall steadily now, Oxford have started the 2nd half better, closing Bristol down quicker on the ball. Getting up the other end have a throw deep on the right played into the box the cross is over Georgia Timms near post falls to Umatong far side swings a leg at the ball rebounds off a defender, Nutman arriving inside the box right latches onto the ball but doesn't get any power behind the shot which is caught safely by Leach. Haynes is off the field for Oxford has picked a knock earlier in the match is substituted, Sophie Barker coming on.

  Bristol press on but aren't finding it quite so easy to break through the Oxford defence 2nd half, still ready to have a go from distance, Arthur has a try from 25 yards out a low effort bobbling along the ground, Lambourne gets down to save it. Wilson with Allen on the right flashes a cross along the six yard box. Oxford make their 2nd change with Ella Franklin-Fraiture coming on to replace Timms. Bristol make a change too Lily Woodham coming on for Wilson with a little over 20 minutes left.

 

Oxford captain, Kat Nutman

The rain heavy now making conditions slippery out on the field. Bristol make a double substitution, Olivia Fergusson and Emily Syme coming on for Alexander and Evans. The visitors putting pressure on the ball around the Oxford box get the pass into Arthur left side leaning back as she goes to strike the ball outside the box her effort lands straight into Lambourne's gloves. Woodham pressing with the ball on the left plays the cross long towards the far post arriving at her quickly Emslie chests the ball into the side netting.

  Umatong up top puts pressure on the Bristol defence almost capitalises as she goes after a back pass, charges Leach's kick down inside the box, back on her feet quickly Umatong is after the loose ball 8 yards out smashes her shot into Brown back to put the block in the rebound running out to Nutman top of the area her shot is blocked by Ladd. Ladd bringing the ball out from the back plays it long up the left for Woodham tries to play it inside for Emslie, Barker gets back on her with a strong sliding challenge before she can pull the trigger.

  GOAL! Into the final 10 minutes of the match, and Bristol get their 5th goal of the game. Good work from Farrow picking up the ball on the right side dribbles her way into the area running at goal plays the ball over the keeper and into the top corner to score 0-5.

  Frampton breaks forwards for Oxford getting up the pitch lifts the ball into the box trying to pick out Umatong, Leach coming off her line jumps in to claim the ball before it can reach her. Persistent rain falling now Bristol work the ball up the right the cross is sent in square along the top of the area, Syme unmarked outside the box left of the D coolly turns the ball towards goal, Lambourne dives to her right the ball striking the base of the post bounces into her before she throws herself on top of it. 

  The game moves into injury time, Frampton picking the ball up from a throw on the left deep in the Bristol half drives on into the box, flashes a shot wide across the face of goal. Franklin-Fraiture picks up the ball from a clearance sends it out to the right with Umatong giving chase picking it up on the byline turns inside and crosses, Leach holding onto the ball is sent up field out to Emslie still full of running on the left side comes back inside plays her shot wide across the six yard box. Game over winning 5-0 Bristol did their part, so to did Yeovil the title going their way after a 3-0 home win over Sheffield.  

Full-time Oxford United Women 0-5 Bristol City Women

  A dominant display to end the season for Bristol went for it right from the off, tried to score the goals to close the gap between themselves and Yeovil, ultimately proved to much. Return to the top flight after just a season's absence, the celebrations can begin. Congratulations to both Bristol and Yeovil on winning promotion.

FAWSL - Reading FC Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles

   The rain has just about stopped, time to hot foot it over to Adams Park to watch my 2nd match of the day, the blowers in the car set to hot to dry me out. A 45 minute drive becoming more like 1 hour 15 minutes thanks to roadworks on the M40, joy. Got there in the end however. With Manchester City Women winning the FAWSL 1 title going the season unbeaten finishing the season a week early with 9 teams in the league pretty much everything is sorted, a bit of mid-table jostling it's to the bottom off the FAWSL 1 table i am drawn to to watch the 2 sides promoted to the top tier last season with Reading FC Women still looking for their 1st hoe win of the season playing Doncaster Rover Belles still in search of their 1st point of any description on the league.

  Reading secured their top flight status a few weeks back getting their only win of the season to date away to Doncaster Rovers Belles in a relegation 6 pointer. 6 draws coming at the top end of the season meaning they have 9 points on the board, a home win in front of their fans the perfect end to their 1st ever campaign in the top flight.

  A tough season for Doncaster Rovers Belles had looked so promising at the start of the season returning to FAWSL 1 after a 2 season absence. Looked to have made some good signings the squad going professional, however injuries and departures affecting pretty much all their strike force have seen them struggle. 15 played 15 lost one more game left to see if they can at least end on a positive note take something forwards into the close season avoid going down on zero.

  More cover at Adams Park than Abingdon, under cover in the press area it was dry now, still cloudy and cold the pitch looked good if slick from the rain fall.

  Reading FC Women starting XI - Mary Earps, Rebecca Jane, Harriet Scott, Kayleigh Hines, Kirsty McGee (C), Emma Follis, Remi Allen, Lauren Bruton, Rachel Rowe, Amber Stobbs & Melissa Fletcher.

  subs - Grace Moloney, Lois Roche, Charlie Estcourt & Helen Ward.

  Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI - Anna Moorhouse, Mayumi Pacheco, Sophie Barker, Leandra Little (C) Rhiannon Roberts, Kasia Lipka, Emily Simpkins, Carla Humphrey, Katrin Omarsdottir, Sam Tierney & Christie Murray.

  subs -Nicola Hobbs, Rebecca Rayner, Courtney Sweetman-Kirk, Rachel Newborough & Marta Bakowska-Mathews.

  Reading to kick off the 1st half wearing blue and white hooped shirts, blue shorts and blue and white hooped socks with Doncaster kitted out in yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts. The visitors press the ball early force reading to play it backwards, coming forwards attacking on the left Katrin Omarsdottir is brought down an early chance for players to come forwards with Rhiannon Roberts to take the set-piece, sends it up towards the far post, Reading goalkeeper Mary Earps comes through bodies to try and punch it away, misses it, drops safely beyond Reading launching it clear ends up with Anna Moorhouse in goal up the other end.

   Both sides probing early the ball doesn't find it's way into either area out on the flanks, play is swept across field out to Emma Follis on the left side of attack plays it into the box looking for Melissa Fletcher, Leandra Little, Doncaster's captain gets a foot in to win the ball back. Follis is put clear on the left once more driving on coming into the box shoots putting the ball behind the goal. Doncaster's full backs aren't afraid to go forwards, on the right Sophie Barker makes a forward run receiving the ball takes it into her stride lifting the ball into the box, Christie Murray inside the area is leaning back as the ball falls to her right side plays her shot straight at Earps who holds onto the ball.

   Carla Humphrey finds space on the right delivering a cross into the Reading box in cleared by Kayleigh Hines coming near post to intercept. Reading counter attack the ball into Lauren Bruton in the centre of midfield drives forwards tries to lay the ball into Amber Stobbs moving inside from the right into the box, Roberts gets to the ball 1st to win in for Doncaster. Play is switched by Sam Tierney out to Omarsdottir wide on the left a clever back heel almost puts Mayumi Pacheco away on the overlap is stopped by Rebecca Jane sliding in to tackle.

   Moorhouse holds onto the all as Follis breaking down the left with the ball shoots putting the ball in low towards the near post. Reading starting to get a little more of the ball as the game moves towards the 20 minute mark. Stobbs with a couple of useful runs into space on the right gets the ball into the box both times the ball is headed out by Little. Good footwork on the ball from Omarsdottir in possession deep on the left side outside the Reading area brings a corner kick, swept in across the six yard box Earps leaps and just about gets her fist to the ball deflecting it out to the right with players rushing in towards her.

Reading FC Women's Lauren
Bruton with Kasia Lipka of
Doncaster Rovers Belles

  Reading push players forwards Harriet Scott bringing the ball up the left plays it forwards, the cross is swept long into the Doncaster area, Jane arriving at the far post inside the six yard box meets it on the volley, Moorhouse with a reactive save pushes the ball over, however Jane was offside when she struck the ball. Rachel Rowe is doing well in the middle for Reading breaking up play and getting forwards, tries to find Stobbs on the right, Pacheco tackling wins the ball back. Stobbs does get in behind the next time cutting the cross into the area with Bruton on hand to meet it her shot comes in low too many bodies in front of goal the ball is cleared.

  Fletcher lays the ball out to Follis left as she brings in forwards through the middle, Follis crosses early, Roberts heads it away from danger back out left Follis nips in to retake possession flashes a low cross into the six yard box Fletcher is in their the ball is blocked rolling back out to the left side and blazed over. Little taking control of a long ball played up into the area sends it long looking for Omarsdottir left, falling central a miscued header from Reading captain, Kirsty McGee puts the ball into Murray in field lines up a shot 25 yards out isn't too far over the crossbar.

Emily Simpkins

  The Reading crowd goes up in celebration thinking they have taken the lead in the 34th minute but it is ruled out by and offside flag. Reading surge forwards as the ball is taken down the right, the cross is whipped in fiercely over two players leaping in front of goal drops to Follis far stick who send it home, only to see her celebrations cut short. A free-kick for Doncaster on the left another chance for Roberts to play the ball into the box, Little gets her head to it far post drills her header across the face of goal. Moorhouse is hurt after she collides with Fletcher just inside her box as the striker is played in behind by Bruton coming on through the middle making the painful stop Moorhouse is okay to continue after treatment.

  Into the closing minutes of the 1st half another free-kick for Doncaster the ball sent long looking for Little, she leans on her player committing the foul as she heads the ball back across goal. An excellent strike from Emily Simpkins all of 30 yards out produces an excellent save from Earps in the Reading goal the ball heading for the top corner the keeper diving to her right pushes it wide for the corner. Coming in from the left McGee heads it out of the area, Doncaster play it back in Earps gets her gloves around the ball as the referee blows for half-time.

Half-time Reading FC Women 0-0 Doncaster Rovers Belles

  A goalless 1st half both goalkeepers called into action Reading having a goal ruled out for offside, neither has broken the dead lock yet both looking for goals wanting to end with a win. Doncaster get the 2nd half underway, Roberts sending the ball long for Omarsdottir left the ball going out of play. Simpkins is booked for a strong challenge on Remi Allen on half way. Rowe sends the ball long up into the area, Moorhouse claims well as Fletcher jumps into her at the far post. 

  Scott getting forwards for Reading shoots from the edge of the box on the left places her strike over the crossbar after the ball rebounds back into her path as Fletcher tries to wriggle her way through the Doncaster defence. Jane getting forwards down the right wing plays the cross in towards the near post Fletcher running onto it places her header wide of the target. Another chance for Fletcher as she is played through by Bruton in the middle into the box Doncaster defenders converge she squeezes a shot through, lacking any pace doesn't trouble Moorhouse beyond. 

  Humphrey plays the ball crossfield from the right for Pacheco coming on down the left plays it inside to Murray back to goal 25 yards out lays it back for Omarsdottir, shoots her effort running along the ground wide of goal. 15 minutes of the 2nd half played a lull in play. Follis seeing the ball drop over her shoulder on the left tries to  take it inside into the box, Barker stretches a leg wins the ball for Doncaster. Humphrey with support from Kasia Lipka the ball is played up into the box for Omarsdottir central, McGee jumps in front of her to win the header. 

  A corner for Doncaster on the left an inswinging ball Earps comes and gets a strong fist on the ball. Doncaster retain possession the ball is with Lipka right tries to put the ball over Earps the keeper with a good save to tip the ball away near post. Earps then claims well at her far post as the ball is sent back in. Humphrey plays an early cross into the Reading box, Omarsdottir the target gets her head on the ball six yards out knocks it down blocked by a defender.Reading make a chance on 68 minutes Follis coming off to be replaced by Helen Ward.

  GOAL! Doncaster score! Reading have been warned a few times already by Roberts deliveries into the box from any free-kick given away, concede one wide on the right inside the Reading half, the ball is swept long by the central defender out to the far post area, running onto it is Omarsdottir, connects as it hits the ground sending the ball back in towards goal and over the line 0-1.

Katrin Omarsdottir with the winning goal

  Lipka plays the ball on through the middle for Murray moving right plays the diagonal ball into the area Omarsdottir in the middle gets her head to the ball plays it straight a Earps, the goalkeeper reacting sharply to save tipping the ball over her goal for the corner kick. 15 minutes left on the clock, Reading try to up the tempo, Doncaster have something to hold onto and close the ball down quickly play is a little scrappy now. Reading make another change bringing on Charlie Estcourt for Stobbs.

 

Courtney Sweetman-Kirk

Lipka is hurt as she fouls Bruton inside her half. Off field to receive treatment Rowe over the ball places it into the centre of the are, under pressure Moorhouse gets to the ball pops out of her gloves but is awarded the free-kick after being fouled. Reading press forwards the ball is played into the Doncaster box 1st Little then Roberts slide in to stop a Reading boot finding the ball in the area. Jane turning inside with the ball 30 yards out has a shot from distance Moorhouse dropping forwards falls onto the ball to claim.

  A free-kick for Reading 35 yards out Rowe to play up into the box, McGee with the flick on Little beyond her heads it away from the box. Doncaster make a change bringing on Marta Bakowska-Mathews for Simpkins. A penalty shout for Reading as Roberts sticks out a leg on the edge of the area and Rowe coming on goes over it, hearts in mouths from the Doncaster fans however it's Rowe who is booked for a dive. A welcome sight for Doncaster fans with 2 minutes of normal time left as Courtney Sweetman-Kirk comes on to the field having fractured her leg early in the season, they've missed her goals. Replaces Murray up top. 

  Backs to the wall from Doncaster they are defending for their lives keeping Reading at bay as the game moves into stoppage time the ball is put up into the box Allen inside back to goal holds it up knocks it out to the top of the area, is laid back to her, however she slips at the vital moment doesn't get a shot away Doncaster launch it long Omarsdottir tries to hold it up in the corner. Reading get it long one last time Roberts coming across marshals it out of play for a goal-kick. The final whistle sounds and it's the bells that are ringing in celebration as at last Doncaster win and get those much sort after 3 points on the final day

Full-time Reading FC Women 0-1 Doncaster Rovers Belles

  A huge win for Doncaster and something to give to the fans who have stood by the team through a difficult season. The game in truth could have gone either way neither settling for a 0-0 on the final day had chances to win in one goal enough in the end

  After 6 seasons of summer football the FAWSL 2016 comes to an end with the league switching back to the winter next season after a Spring Series to bridge the gap will be sad to see it go. Having only been a casual women's football follower before the inception of the FAWSL in 2011, I decided to get behind a team, Lincoln Ladies when it all began loved it but sadly the club was to be rebranded. We all move on the blog was born the rest is history think the early years of the FAWSL were heading in the right direction, grew to include the 2nd league in 2014. After that the fixture scheduling became a nightmare and returns to the winter. Reservations yes, know it can work well if delivered right is strong enough and will benefit the England team and those qualifying for Europe. So here's to the summer (just pretend it's not November) been fun, see you in the spring.

Match Report - Everton Ladies v Bristol City Women

  Nearing the end the season in FA WSL 2 and the battle for promotion to top tier of Women's football couldn't be much closer. With 2 games left to be played everything could be decided this weekend or else it'll make for a dramatic last day. 4 sides have been involved in the hunt for promotion all season. Two of those meeting this Saturday for the penultimate game of the season with 3rd placed Everton Ladies hosting Bristol City Women. 

  2 points the gap between the 2 sides both founding members of the FAWSL. Bristol City Women with a 2 point advantage can win promotion back to FAWSL 1 at the 1st attempt with a victory tonight. Everton Ladies win and they go top and put themselves in pole position for a promotion spot going into the final day next Sunday. A huge game for both sides.

  Have see Everton Ladies a few times this season, play some good flowing football, goals throughout the side captain Michelle Hinnigan top scorer with 7 goals. A young squad bolstered by loan signings, Chloe Kelly joining for the latter part of the season doing well in attack has since returned to Arsenal Ladies. Rosella Ayane another loan signing to make a big impact coming in for Chelsea Ladies had a spell on loan at Bristol City Women at the start of the season.

  Haven't seen Bristol City Women this season yet and seeings as they are the only side throughout the FAWSL I haven't thought I'd best get myself along to a game. Relegated from FAWSL 1 last season have had a strong season so far as they look to bounce back at the 1st attempt. Manager Willie Kirk having to over see a little bit of rebuilding with high profile players departing in recent seasons. Has brought in a crop of young players a mixture of permanent and loan signings. Jodie Brett and Millie Farrow in on season long loans from Chelsea Ladies, Farrow top scorer with 8 goals has been out injured recently. Olivia Fergusson and Caitlin Leach in from Aston Villa Ladies too amongst others with younger players stepping up from the development squad amongst them Norfolk's Flo Allen.

  It's a long haul up from Norfolk to the Select Security Stadium, having discovered the Mama Mia fast food place near the stadium earlier in the season I was suitable refuelled before the game under the lights at the Select Security Stadium. An artificial surface, the weather still pretty good considering we're at the end of October, dry and mild.

FA WSL 2 Top of the Table
Pos	Team	Pl	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Yeovil Town Ladies	16	10	3	3	36	16	20	33
2	Bristol City Women	16	10	3	3	29	14	15	33
3	Everton Ladies	16	9	4	3	29	12	17	31
4	Durham FC Women	16	8	3	5	22	17	5	27

 Everton Ladies starting XI - Kirsty Levell, Vicky Jones, Danielle Turner, Gabrielle George, Megan Finnigan, Millie Turner, Michelle Hinnigan (C), Kelly Jones, Rosella Ayane, Krystle Johnston & Claudia Walker.
 subs- Alex Brooks, Jenna Dear, Ellie Stewart, Simone Magill, Emily Hollinshead & Lauren Davies.

 Bristol City Women starting XI - Caitlin Leach, Megan Alexander, Georgia Evans, Hayley Ladd (C), Frankie Brown, Flo Allen, Jodie Brett, Eloise Wilson, Chloe Arthur, Claire Emslie & Millie Farrow.
 subs - Hannah Reid, Olivia Fergusson, Paige Sawyer, Katie Jones, Poppy Wilson & Lily Woodham.

  It's Everton to get the 1st half underway wearing blue shirts with white shorts and socks, Bristol kitted out all in red. The ball is played long from the start out to the right wing with Krystle Johnston giving chase, getting across her Bristol full-back Megan Alexander can see it out for a goal kick. A quiet opening to the match both sides looking to spread the play across the field. Attacking down the right the ball is lifted into the box with Bristol's Millie Farrow trying to get onto the end of it, Gabrielle George closes her down wins the ball sending it clear.

  A strong run from Everton's Rosella Ayane coming inside from the left evading a tackle the ball is in behind the Bristol defence, trying to get it as it runs into the box Ayane fouls the player trying to shield the ball. End to end as Bristol's Jodie Brett is fouled on half way, the ball played up into the area by Chloe Arthur trying to pick out Farrow, Everton win the ball break down the left the ball whipped into the box is headed out by Bristol captain, Hayley Ladd falls to Claudia Walker outside the box, shoots Ladd blocks tries again same result spi out to the right the shot blazed high and wide.

  Hitting Bristol on the counter attack Everton are flagged offside on 3 occasions early on in the game. Everton captain, Michelle Hinnigan gets hold of the ball in the centre of midfield, plays it to Kelly Jones on her right, carrying the ball further wide as she closes in on the box has Millie Turner with her they play a one two before Jones whips a cross into the box is just behind Walker as she races into the area, Ayane beyond her picks it up is squeezed off the ball by Frankie Brown before any shot can be made.

  Kelly Jones bursts forwards to get into the box getting onto the end of an Ayane cross played in from the left, 12 yards out sends her strike over the Bristol crossbar. A fabulous ball out from the back by Everton goalkeeper, Kirsty Levell as the back pass is rolled into her switching play sweeps a long ball out to the right wing, Johnston out there runs onto the ball and surging forwards crosses early into the area, the ball once more just beyond Walker as she runs into the area.

  The crowd go up calling for a penalty as Kelly Jones appears to be fouled inside the box wide right as she tries to get the cross in, the referee isn't interested and no Everton player protests. Good tempo to the match a great advert for football in FAWSL 2. A good turn as the ball is played into her feet Farrow spins off her marker to get in behind takes the ball on towards the box, George getting back on her as they enter the area, gets a foot in to take the ball away from the Bristol attacker goes behind for the corner.

  A few fouls being given away by both sides. Everton have a free-kick 40 yards out on the right inside the Bristol half looks to go for goal an ambitious effort flies over the bar. Hinnigan plays the ball on for Walker moving forwards left riding a challenge brings the ball on before crossing from the top of the area into Ayane near post is leaned on as she tries to go up to head the ball, cleared runs into Johnston outside the box to the right of goal, shoots plays the ball over the bar.

Bristol City Women's Claire Emslie looking to get into a shooting position

  Johnston the ball at her feet drives at the back peddling Bristol defence has Ayane in close support as everyone moves into the box nudges the ball in behind looks to go after it Ayane gets there 1st is flagged offside as she plays a soft shot in towards goal, Bristol goalkeeper, getting down to gather easily. Bristol break the ball on the left with Arthur squares her cross into the area just behind Farrow moving near post outside the six yard box, Claire Emslie far post stretches to get to the ball, is taken off her toes cleared out of the area, Flo Allen coming on from midfield latches onto it shoots her strike is charged down, the break is on for Everton played into Ayane left charges forwards cutting back inside into the box shoots her low ball drilled in near post Leach down sharply saves pushing the ball behind for a corner kick.

  GOAL! Bristol score the opening goal in the game 26 minutes on the clock the ball is out on the left inside the Everton half, they visitors with the throw the ball is played into Brett she passes the ball to Emslie 35 yards out turns inside with it, bringing in on stumbles on the ball but keeping her balance moves forwards no one from Everton closes her down as she puts her foot firmly through the ball gets plenty of pace and power on the shot it swerves in the air as Levell throws herself at it the movement beating her as the shot flies past her into the back of the net 0-1. 

  Everton press forwards looking for an immediate response the ball is lifted up into the area, Walker inside tries to get onto the end of the bouncing ball is crowded off it as it is cleared to the right for a throw in. Johnston sends the cross in from the right side, Ayane at the far post ca't get to the ball as it is put behind for the corner kick.

  GOAL! PENALTY! The corner from the left is swept into the area around the six yard box near side where the players are gathered the ball is attacked and cleared, however the referee has seen something and points to the penalty spot. Not sure what the referee saw has several perplexed nevertheless Everton have the opportunity from the spot just 4 minutes after conceding the opening goal. Walker to take the penalty, cool as you like Leach moving the wrong way as the ball is slotted along the floor into the right corner 1-1.

The referee spots a penalty offence in here can you see it?

Claudia Walker puts the ball into the bottom corner to make it 1-1 to Everton Ladies

 

Vicky Jones

 A free-kick for Everton on the right outside the box in a dangerous area 22 yards out, Danielle Turner to take it. Sends the ball angling in towards the far post bouncing inside the six yard box, Leach dives and pushes the ball wide, her defence to it 1st to clear before any Everton player can hit it in on the follow up. Millie Turner picking the ball up for Everton outside the box lets fly on the turn from the left her effort flashing across the face of goal.

OFF THE LINE! Bristol get the ball in over the top of the Everton defence as the 1st have moves into the final couple of minutes, Farrow spins off her marker to get after it, George is close behind her as the pair enter the box, Levell has come off her line to close Farrow down the striker manages to lift the ball up over the advancing keeper, her lob is on target dropping towards goal, Vicky Jones tracking back clears the ball off the line putting it behind for the corner. 

Half-time Everton Ladies 1-1 Bristol City Women

  An entertaining 1st half both sides playing some great football, the game all square at 1-1 still all to play for 2nd half as Bristol get a huge 2nd half underway. The ball is played out to Arthur on the right plays the pass inside for Farrow inside the D, is tackled by Megan Finnigan. A long ball played up the field by Everton for Walker to chase down causes chaos in the Bristol defence as Leach comes rushing out of her area to get to it, Walker is tugged to the floor by Ladd 30 yards out the referee booking the Bristol captain. Ayane isn't afraid to strike the ball from distance goes for goal her attempt flying over the crossbar. The niggly fouls a feature of the 1st half continue.

   GOAL! 7 minutes into the 2nd half and Bristol retake the lead, the ball is played into Farrow 10 yards inside the Everton half turns and looks to push on with the ball at her feet, looks to have lost it, a mix-up at the back as the ball is played back by Everton, Farrow after the ball gets hold of it moving into the box shoots sending the ball past Levell into the net to made it 1-2.

  Leading the line for Everton, Walker is a strong player on and off the ball, looks to attack the ball as Millie Turner plays her in over the top into the box shoulder to shoulder with Ladd the defender pushes Walker out to the right the angle acute as she gets a shot away the ball played straight into Leach who comfortably holds onto the ball. 

 Emslie with the ball out wide left sees her cross turned behind by Vicky Jones for the corner. The corner is played into the area top of the box, Georgia Evans has 2 attempts to strike the ball towards goal both charged down before Farrow is fouled in a dangerous position to the right outside the box. The ball in from Brett goes long to the far post Arthur running onto the ball squares it through the six yard box, George clears for Everton. Bristol push forwards Allen into Eloise Wilson up top right side outside the box links up with Farrow on her outside the ball played into her, Wilson spins inside into the box gets the ball back from Farrow, shoots a low strike in towards the near post Levell down smartly saves pushing the ball away for the corner kick. 

  Levell makes another save against Wilson a minute later the ball played in over the top for her to go after landing in the box left of goal, Levell charging out slides in to make the save at her feet as Wilson tries to dink it over her. Both sides are going for it Everton wanting the equaliser, Bristol another goal for a little breathing space. Everton make the 1st change of the match, Millie Turner the player off as they send on striker Simone Magill. 

  Brown gets a little too tight on Walker as the ball is played forwards into the Everton attacker, seeing the ball into her body, spins off the defender to get in behind moving the ball down the left channel, Brown recovers well getting back on Walker to tackle and clear for a throw. The ball is with Danielle Turner her cross whipped into the six yard box is head agonisingly wide by Hinnigan.

Claire Emslie

  GOAL! Those orange boots Emslie is wearing are on fire as she picks up the ball on half-way and brings it forwards a mazy run good control, no one from Everton goes to challenge her 20 yards from goal unleashes a strike of pure beauty rifling the ball past the keeper into the top corner, a wonderful strike and I'm calling it now the best goal I've seen in FAWSL 2 this season 1-3. The Bristol players converge on the celebrating Emslie burying her a 2 goal lead with 20 minutes left to play.

  A good run down the right wing by Johnston for Everton squares the ball into the area as she reaches the top of the box, Walker racing in can't quite get the ball under control take the shot on the stride, Ladd in to win it back. Another change for Everton, Ellie Stewart coming on for Vicky Jones. George comes forwards, bringing the ball from the back has a shot from 25 yards out lacks the pace to trouble Leach in the Bristol goal. 

  A free-kick to Bristol wide left, outside the box, they make there 1st change on 77 minutes Farrow coming off to be replaced by Lily Woodham. The free-kick is played in central Arthur up heads the ball down into the six yard box, Levell is quickest to react getting her gloves firmly on the ball. Alot at stake Bristol's injured captain Grace McCatty has been unable to sit down all 2nd half as she wills her team on from the stands. Leach calls for the ball flung into the area by Johnston on the right claiming hold with Walker advancing. Changes for both sides Olivia Fergusson coming on for Bristol with Wilson coming off. Jenna Dear comes on for Everton going into the back line Johnston the player off as George it sent up top. Into the final 10 minutes.

It's all too tense injured Bristol City Women captain Grace McCatty can't sit down.

   GOAL! Pushing players forwards looking for a goal Everton pull one back with 5 minutes of normal time left, the ball is with George left side bringing it on turns inside taking on a defender gets the ball past and into the box hits the shot in towards goal on her right foot, comes at Leach quickly with players closing into the six yard box, saves the shot the ball isn't in her gloves however spilt it is bundled over the line by Danielle Turner to set up a tense finish.

  4 up top now Everton intent on attacking push forwards the ball with Ayane left side sweeps the ball in along the top of the six yard box, Leach leaps up and punches the ball away from her area. Danielle Turner coming down the left with the ball screws her shot/cross over the bar. Hinnigan rolls the ball into George inside the D back to goal holds it up Walker to her left taps the ball into her run hits the shot is drilled low and wide taking a deflection off a Bristol boot on the way through corner. Played in near side Hinnigan coming to meet it can't wrap her foot over the ball to turn it goalwards. 

  5 minutes of added time to be played. Corner for Everton left, the ball is put into the mix Leach coming through bodies catches the ball. Bristol are defending for their lives as Everton through everything at them. Ayane has a chance to put the ball in from a free-kick wide right her effort lands on the top of the crossbar. Deep into injury time the 5 minutes are up and Everton are awarded a PENALTY! George with the ball onto the left flings it into the box near side from where I am I think there some holding on, a dubious one but it is given late drama Everton with a chance to grab a point from the game put Bristol's celebrations on hold. Walker to take it, goes the same way as her earlier penalty, so to does Leach diving to her left makes the save pushing the ball onto the post and the ball is cleared.

Not the best picture but Caitlin Leach dives to her left to save Claudia Walkers penalty at the death

  Time for one more long ball forwards into the box Leach palms it down and the final whistle blows, players and staff run onto the pitch in celebration as they secure a 3-2 win and with it promotion back to FAWSL 1.

Bristol City Women celebrate winning promotion at the final whistle

Full time Everton Ladies 2-3 Bristol City Women 

  Was a great game to watch, entertaining some good football on display from both sides who didn't let the significance of the game inhibit their performance. Bristol bounce straight back up following relegation, having not seen them until now it's clear to see why they've been at the top end of the table all season. Tough on Everton gave everything and have played good football all season, today's loss a huge blow, not out of it yet however they need London Bees to do them a favour and beat 2nd placed Yeovil Town Ladies. If they don't the final day will be all about who will win the title.

  Congratulations to Bristol City Women on achieving promotion.