Match Report - Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

  County Cup semi-finals day in Norfolk this Sunday and the Supporting Women's Football Blog was there to watch the game between Acle United Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Both sides doing well in their respective leagues, 2 of the 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside of the County league set-up. Acle United Ladies well placed to mount a challenge for the title in the ERWFL Premier Division going into the latter end of the season. Won the Norfolk Women's County Cup two season's ago have beaten Norfolk Women's Division One sides, North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round 4-3 and King's Lynn Town Ladies 5-3 in the quarter-finals to reach the semi-finals of this years competition.

  Wymondham Town Ladies play a league below in the ERWFL Division One having been promoted as Norfolk Division One Champions last season. Doing well in their debut season playing at regional level in 3rd place in the table and have reached the semi-finals of the league cup. Awarded an away win in the 2nd Round of the County Cup beat Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 at home to reach the last 4 of the competition. Are looking to make their 1st ever final appearance in the County Cup.

  Seen Acle United Ladies at home several times, however this is just the 2nd time I've seen them play in their regular home venue at Bridgewell Lane in Acle due to weather issues. Is part of a multi-sports complex and recreation ground home of Acle United FC too. Tennis courts, bowling club and skateboard park. Headed the the large clubhouse and bar overlooking the main pitch. Had threatened to be wet and windy this afternoon and although the wind would pick up later in the game it was actually bright and sunny as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

  Acle United Ladies starting XI - Joanne Hooper, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodfield, Megan Cletheroe, Leah McGuire, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd & Rebecca Burton (C).
  subs - Jade Copeman, Jody Wells & Bryony Knights

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Ashleigh O'Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Bethany Fretwell, Lily Ray, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs - Laura Nicholls, Chelsea Clarke & Laura Hamilton-Rout.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It's Wymondham wearing red shirts with black trim, red shorts and red and white hooped sock to kick off the semi-final game with Acle lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. The ball is out wide early on Wymondham looking to attack down the left Kayleigh Holloway looking to take the ball on is tackled by Anna Larkins at right back for Acle, the ball played forwards up to captain Rebecca Burton is knocked out wide to Megan Todd on the right pushes inside looking to get into the Wymondham area, Brooke Cheal-Ferris makes the challenge wins the ball.

Kayleigh Holloway looking to attack for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Progress on the right for Wymondham the ball played forwards down the channel Gemma Sanders going after it get's in behind the Acle defence lunging for the ball sends it in towards the middle of the six yard box with striker Laura Wiseman well placed to meet it, Larkins gets across in front of her to knock the ball wide of goal and behind for the corner kick. A good inswinging ball from the right side Acle goalkeeper, Joanne Hooper punches the ball away from under her crossbar, defender Leah McGuire clears the ball from the area.

 

Acle's Kate Pasque tackles Wymondham's Laura Wiseman

   Amber Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham drives forwards is fouled 35 yards from goal, picks herself up to take the free-kick players forwards from the back flights the delivery towards the far post area six yards out Bethany Fretwell goes for the header can't get anything on the ball as it drifts out of play. A good start from Wymondham, Holloway looks to get away on the right, Kate Pasque tracks her from midfield for Acle stops the early cross, Holloway's 2nd attempt floors defender Megan Cletheroe the ball catching her in the face, play is stopped so she can receive treatment is alright to continue.

  Amber Rowland plays the ball out to Lauren Bullard on the move wide left for Acle covers alot of ground before cutting inside rolling the ball into Pasque 35 yards out lines up a shot sends her effort over the crossbar. Bringing the ball on up the left for Wymondham, Holloway looks for the give and go with Wiseman coming across to receive the ball, Wiseman attempts to send the return ball into Holloway as she goes beyond the full back, Larkins reading the move intercepts and plays it up the line to Todd a powerful runner on the ball goes in field heading to the box left of the D checks back and shoots the ball straight at Wymondham goalkeeper, Ashleigh O'Callaghan who catches cleanly.

Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins

   Todd finds herself in a central position as Acle break up a Wymondham attack the ball played into her by Rowland she brings it on before firing it into Burton inside the D, back to goal she turns well looking to shoot the Wymondham defence close her down quickly the ball put behind for a corner kick on the left. Is a relatively open game both sides looking to attack with purpose whenever they have the ball Wiseman moving wide right to receive the ball plays it on for Sanders moving ahead of her her ball into the area going long towards the far post Holloway goes after it looks to cut back inside is dispossessed Acle look to counter attack Burton gets the ball on for Todd who takes it on into the right corner before crossing the ball back into Burton at the top of the area the striker dink the ball over the Wymondham defence, goalkeeper O'Callaghan calls for it spills the ball is Pasque bares down on her, but manages to turn and get her body between the Acle player and ball claim at the 2nd attempt. 

  Good hold up play from Alice Collins up front for Wymondham right side as she looks to get Sanders in on the ball the winger clipped and brought down as she looks to take the ball on. Cantwell on the ball wide right lofts the ball in towards the near post Hooper isn't challenged as she claims the ball well. Chloe Shields goes on a forwards run with the ball for Acle through the middle moving left then right into the box sending the ball on with Todd clear to her left O'Callaghan comes sliding out to get the ball as Todd throws herself forwards trying to get to it 1st knocks the ball on into the keeper and behind for the corner. Is a vicious deliver from the left flashing through the six yard box no one can connect however.

  Shields gives away a free-kick inside the Acle half right of the centre circle Cantwell has Cheal-Ferris free to her left rolls the ball into her takes on the shot from distance, Hooper can see the ball wide of her left post. Few strong challenges coming in but the players are getting on with it. Todd is late on Cantwell as she attacks down the left the free-kick conceded it's Cantwell to take. The ball is played in towards the far post area six yards out both Wymondham's Fretwell and Acle's Pasque go up to head the ball neither getting a firm connection it drops to Wymondham's captain Rachel Cossey gets her header on target places the ball straight into the gloves of Hooper.

Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland with Wymondham's Amber Cantwell

  Rowland fighting for the ball in the middle wins it and plays the ball on for Bullard on the left drives forwards Wymondham right back Lily Ray goes with her close marking prevents the cross being made. A good contest all over the pitch the sides closely matched with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play.

 GOAL! Acle break the deadlock in the County Cup semi-final a goal from back to front as Hooper kicks the ball forwards sending it up towards Bullard on the left near half way controls well bringing it on comes inside passing the ball into Todd inside the D central a fantastic 1st touch to take the ball on evade her marker behind her back to goal turns left and shoots, O'Callaghan has no time to react the ball flying past her inside the post Todd scores to give Acle the lead 1-0.

Megan Todd on the ball for Acle scores the opening goal of the match

  Ray has taken a knock for Wymondham and needs to come off, Chelsea Clarke comes on a switch of personnel Sanders drops to right back as Holloway switches wings, Clarke over to the left side. Larkins challenges for the ball inside the Wymondham half sends the ball in towards the top of the area with Burton coming in stretches for the ball trying to bring it down under her control, doesn't and Bullard coming in beyond her may have been better placed, hurt as she falls Burton needs treatment but is okay to play on. 

  Into injury time in the 1st half Acle finish strongly Rowland playing the ball on for Burton through the middle slides it through into the area with Todd breaking in behind, O'Callaghan out of her six yard box quickly slides in to claim the ball. Pasque is fouled as she looks to power her way forwards. Rowland on the set-piece plays in up towards the top of the area Shields attacks the ball gets her header on target a good distance from goal O'Callaghan has time to get across behind the ball and save.

Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-0 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A competitive semi-final in the Norfolk Women's County Cup but expected it would be, two sides determined to reach the final. Wymondham started the game well and had the bulk of the early attacks. A fierce battle in midfield wide both sides have wanted to use their wide players but on the whole the full-backs have kept them quiet. As Acle grew into the game and Todd started to drift into more central areas the home side started to create a few opportunities of their own. Todd scoring the goal to give Acle the advantage going into the changing rooms at the break. 

 It's Acle to kick-off the 2nd half the sun has disappeared behind dark clouds the wind starting to pick up a little. A fast tempo to the start of the 2nd half an early free-kick for Wymondham, inside the Acle half the ball played into the area by Cantwell is claimed by Hooper. Up the other end Burton is knocked to the ground as the ball cleared by the Wymondham defence in the area catches her in the face. A pause for treatment Acle's captain is okay to continue. Rowland presses the ball in the middle, on for Pasque out to Bullard wide left looks to pick out Burton making a move to get into the box she is closed down quickly the ball cleared for a throw. 

  A throw in on the left inside the Wymondham half Goodfield plays the ball into Burton returning it to Goodfield the full back plays the ball up the channel with Bullard looking to get on the end of it inside the box, O'Callaghan is quickly out to the edge of her area to slide in a claim the ball. Wymondham get players forwards win a corner on the left a high ball in towards the top of the area is too high for Collins as she jumps for it over her there a cries for hand ball inside the box off Bullard as the ball comes into her bouncing in front of her she clears it the referee isn't interested. 

Acle's, Todd leaps as Wymondham's Cantwell closes her down to win the ball

  The visitors are doing well at the start of the 2nd half Cantwell going forwards receives the ball from Wiseman holding it up back to goal outside the area, played out wide left for Holloway the winger goes forwards squaring a cross into the area headed behind for a corner. Todd defends the 1st corner for Acle a 2nd corner given away the ball is played up to the top of the area Fretwell gets her head to the ball puts her header over the bar. 

 Cheal-Ferris has the opportunity to bring the ball forwards over the half way line for Wymondham left side is brought down the free-kick given away Cantwell is a long way from goal sends the ball in bouncing into the area, controlled by Clarke gets a shot away angling near post lacks pace Hooper is able to get down and make the save. Wymondham are pushing Acle deeper as the dark clouds return and the wind starts to pick up blowing from one goal to the other the direction the visitors are attacking.

  Building a attack Acle win a free-kick as Burton is caught in the face. a central position 35 yards out it's Burton who takes the set-piece lifting the ball up into the area Todd is in behind gets her head to the ball too early however the flag is up for offside. Wymondham make their 1st change of the game bringing on Laura Nicholls for Collins with 68 minutes played. A knock for Larkins see her come off Jody Wells coming on going up front with Shields dropping deeper and McGuire moving across to full back.

 GOAL! Wymondham have been threatening to score an equaliser and get it in the 70th minute the attack building down the right with pace as Holloway brings the ball on squares the cross along the face of the area into Clarke far side fires in a diagonal ball towards the near post players from both sides dive in to win the ball it's substitute Nicholls who gets on the end of Clarke's ball and turns it into the back of the net 1-1.

  Sanders is taken out by McGuire as she looks to drive forwards through the middle the free-kick given away 25 yards out in range for a shot Cantwell left of the D goes for the strike sends the ball wide of goal. Pasque comes forwards with the ball for Acle has Cletheroe to her right getting forwards sends the pass out to her, crosses early a high ball looping towards the near post the swirling wind sees Todd misjudge her attempted header doesn't make clean contact with the ball falls into the box Wymondham are quickly on it to launch clear. 

  Rowland is eased off the ball by Cossey seeing Acle have a free-kick 25 yards out in a good position. Wells to take goes for goal places her attempt over the crossbar. Wymondham go forwards the ball from Cantwell into Sanders plays the ball on for Wiseman has Nichols free to her right before she can pass the ball Cletheroe throws a leg out to tackle and win the ball.

 GOAL! Wymondham take the lead as Cantwell scores a 35 yard screamer to make it 2-1 as the game closes in on the final 10 minutes receives the lay off from Nicholls 25 yards from goal in a central area as the ball is rolled into her Cantwell meets the ball on the run sending her strike looping in towards the top corner dipping to sail under the bar.

  Wymondham bring on Laura Hamilton-Rout as they look to hold onto their lead with 10 minutes of normal time left on the clock. Larkins back on for Acle, Shields gets forwards as Todd attacks on the right plays the ball into her feet outside the area goes for goals sends the ball wide across goal. Wymondham very nearly give a penalty away as Todd attacking down the left comes inside drives for the box, Sanders slides in gets the ball as Todd goes over her, the referee awarded the free-kick right on the edge of the area left of the D. Burton on the free-kick gets it up and in towards the goal, O'Callaghan is right behind it tips the ball over the bar. The corner taken from the left is fired into the area at a good pace, Sanders wins the header as it comes to her inside the six yard box.

  Up the other end a double save from Hooper as Wymondham bring the ball down the left Clarke sending a long ball in towards Nichols coming in far post 3 yards out looks to try and place the ball across Hooper, getting a glove to the ball the goalkeeper pushes it away from goal but straight into the path of the onrushing Wiseman lunges for the ball Hooper is down quickly to make the save.

 GOAL! A yellow card for Rowland as she brings down Cantwell in a dangerous area outside the box. Cantwell picks herself up and is ready to take it Hooper is setting her wall. A goal scoring opportunity have the camera pointed and ready. The referee's whistle appears to blow a split 2nd after Cantwell strikes the ball either way the ball clears the wall and looping up flies in under the bar to give Cantwell her 2nd of the match and see Wymondham into a 3-1 in the 90th minute.

Amber Cantwell sends in her free-kick to make it 3-1 to Wymondham

 GOAL! A moment later and Wymondham extend the lead have a free-kick on half-way haven't got the camera pointed ready for this one as Fretwell stands over the ball but I should have no-one expects her to shoot the wind is in her favour the ball is sent long with plenty of pace behind it  sails over Hooper and into the back of the net making it 4-1 Fretwell is buried under her joyous team mates as they know they have reached their 1st ever County Cup Final.

Bethany Fretwell mobbed by her team mates after scoring from the halfway line

 

Wymondham Town Ladies
Bethany Fretwell

Frustration gets the better of Rowland a rash challenge she has already been booked and a 2nd yellow from the referee sees her sent off. Plenty of stoppage time to be played Acle continue to press forwards looking to pull a goal back. Have a corner on the right goes long to Burton far post fires the ball back into the middle Todd goes for it but is closed down quickly a 2nd corner conceded on the left this time.

 GOAL! Plenty of players in the box for both sides as Wells sending in an excellent delivery comes in towards Pasque central inside the six yard box twists her body the send her header flying past O'Callaghan into the back of the net 4-2. 

  Into the 8th minute of stoppage time Wymondham press forwards for one last attack the lay off running back to Hamilton-Rout 30 yards out meets the ball on the half-volley her shot racing wide of the post. That's the last action of the game and Wymondham celebrate as they reach the County Cup Final.

Full time Acle United Ladies 2-4 Wymondham Town Ladies

A good 2nd half performance from Wymondham coming back from 1-0 at half-time to win the match 4-2 plenty of late drama 2 free-kicks in the 90th minute sealing the win. Overall 2 evenly matches sides the wind stronger in the 2nd half proving both a problem and an advantage. Wymondham Town Ladies opponents in the Norfolk Women's County Cup Final will be the current holders Thorpe United Ladies after they beat Aylsham FC Ladies whom they played in last season's final 5-0. The final scheduled to be played Friday 28th April with a 7:30pm KO. 

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

  Today's SWF Blog - Player of the Match goes to Wymondham's Amber Cantwell a strong contender before she scored 2 goals in the last 15 minutes of the final a, competitive on the ball in the middle and a threat going forwards as well as from set-pieces.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Amber Cantwell

  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the sides today always a pleasure to see both play. Congratulation to Wymondham Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever Norfolk Women's County Cup Final. The Supporting Women's Football Blog will be there.

Match Report - Acle United Ladies v King's Lynn Town Ladies

  The action on the Supporting Women's Football Blog this Sunday comes from the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women's County Cup, with ERWFL Premier Division side, Acle United Ladies hosting King's Lynn Town Ladies from Norfolk Women's Division One.

  A wet Sunday right across the country saw a large number of fixtures called off, with their fixtures already piling up, Acle United Ladies took the decision early to switch the game to an all weather 3G pitch, at Flegg High School in Martham where the side trains during the week.

  Acle United Ladies play their football 2 leagues higher than their opponents today in the County Cup 1 of 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside the county leagues. Currently 7th in the ERWFL Premier Division table have games in hand on all the sides above them. Won the Norfolk Women's County Cup 2 seasons ago. Entered this years competition in the 2nd Round winning 4-3 away home against Norfolk Women's Division One side, North Walsham Angels Ladies. Acle announced the signing of California State University San Bernardino scholar Megan Todd earlier in the week after obtaining international clearance, makes her debut in the County Cup.

  A good test for King's Lynn Town Ladies today taking on a side 2 leagues higher, but come into the game on the back of a 7 match unbeaten run in the league which included 6 straight wins to see them up into 2nd place in the table. Also entered the competition in the 2nd Round, beating fellow Norfolk Women's Division One side, Fakenham Town Ladies 8-0 at The Walks

   A nice 3G facility at the Flegg High School, room for spectators to stand beside the pitch, hot and cold drinks available from vending machines. A narrow pitch. Like I said a wet day across the country the waterproofs were needed the umbrella up, making juggling a camera and notepad tricky, but at least keeping both dry.

 Acle United Ladies starting XI - Chloe Nixon, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodchild, Chloe Shields, Kate Pasque, Amber Rowland, Alice Ladbrooke, Bryony Knights, Megan Todd, Rebecca Burton (C) & Jody Wells.
 subs - Joanne Hooper, Jade Copeman & Sarah Howard.

 King's Lynn Town Ladies starting XI - Christina Vivas Artacho, Winnie Lee, Lisa Wilson, Albany Hodgson, Emma Woods, Bethan Jones, Taylor Sarchet, Jade Kelly, Becky Russell, Shelley Woods (C) & Oksana Imanalijeva.
 subs - Katie Garner, Emma Corbyn & Natalie Bunton

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's Acle to kick-off the 1st half, wearing red and white vertical striped shirts, white shorts and red and white hooped socks, with King's Lynn lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts, with blue shorts and socks. The home side push players forwards at the start Alice Ladbrooke playing the ball out to Megan Todd on the right wing, drives forwards with the ball flashes a cross into the area race wide behind the goal. 

  A lively start from both sides, Bethan Jones sliding in to win the ball in the middle plays it forwards early looking for Shelley Woods, the King's Lynn captain looking to make a run through the middle, her 1st touch a little heavy allows the Acle defence to get back on her regain possession and sending it long, King's Lynn goalkeeper, Christina Vivas Artacho is out of her area quickly to win the race for the ball. Starting and attack on the right full-back Winnie Lee brings the ball on playing it forwards for Becky Russell ahead of her sends the looping cross into the box, moving right side Oksana Imanalijeva brings the ball down well with her chest inside the area knocking to down right of goal shoots as she reaches the six yard box the ball is blocked at the near post as the Acle defence goes with her.

King's Lynn Town Ladies, Becky Russell

 Acle's front two link up captain, Rebecca Burton, only just returned to action after a two month injury layout pressures the King's Lynn defence, has Jody Wells in close support rolls the ball forwards for her outside the box, Wells back to goal holds the ball up before laying it back to Burton who goes for the 1st time strike sending her shot over the bar. Acle win a free-kick inside the King's Lynn half on the right, Anna Larkins over the ball sweeps it high in towards the far post area, Todd gets up highest, getting her head on the ball can't direct it on target.

Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins

  King's Lynn get forwards on the right the cross in across the face of the area is intercepted by Chloe Shields rolled into the midfield for Amber Rowland to carry forwards, player break threads the ball into the path of Wells 30 yards out is closed down quickly by Jones still manages to get a shot away her effort flying over the crossbar. Chances for both sides early on King's Lynn getting joy out wide play the ball out to Russell high on the right wing, fires a ball in across to top of the area, good control from Shelley Woods inside the D to kill the ball and turning hits the shot in the half-volley, arrowing for the top corner, Acle goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon produces a fantastic save a full stretch tipping the ball over the bar for a corner kick.

  King's Lynn are encouraged by their bright start, pressing Acle on the ball is a competitive match, Russell with another surge up the right wing gets the corner taking it herself is an inswinging ball flies across the six yard box low no one can get a touch as it kisses the far post running wide for the goal-kick. Bryony Knights has possession of the ball on the left side for Acle, plays the ball inside for Wells she is closely marked by King's Lynn's Emma Woods, the ball is won by the defender played into Taylor Sarchet in the middle and on quickly for Shelley Woods in attack a good 30 yards from goal wastes no time in shooting the ball landing in the side netting.

Acle United Ladies, Jody Wells, battling for the ball with
King's Lynn Town Ladies, Emma Woods

  Shelley Woods reacts quickest to a poor kick out of the area from Nixon, dropping to the King's Lynn captain 25 yards out drives on towards the top of the area moving right of goal Kate Pasque gets back on her shoulder as Nixon comes to close the angle, Woods shoots, Nixon throwing herself to the right makes the save pushing the ball wide across her area conceding the corner. Acle launch a counter attack from the corner, a strong run on the ball from Luka Goodchild from left-back sends the ball on into the area near post, Wells can't quite reach it. Acle make a change, Joanne Hooper on in midfield replacing Rowland.

 Acle have another free-kick on the right inside the King's Lynn half the ball is played into the area, Todd the target again gets up for a free header, a tall player knocks the ball down into the ground inside the six yard box is straight at the goalkeeper, Vivas Artacho dropping to the floor and making the save. Both sides are pressing looking for the opening goal, Acle over load the right side win a throw taken quickly into Wells turns inside towards the box moving across the face of the area is fouled as she cuts the ball into the area for Burton, no advantage play is brought back for the free-kick 20 yards out right of goal, Wells to take it goes for goal sends the ball over the bar.

  Albany Hodgson does well at the back closing down Knights as she is playing in moving in field from the left getting into the area Hodgson slides in to take the ball away from her out for a corner kick, Played in from the right, Todd in a central position outside the six yard box is allowed another free header, drops the ball wide trying to direct it into the bottom corner. More attacking play from Acle down the left Ladbrooke sending Knights in down the left swings the ball in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho gets down but spills the ball out into the middle of the box, Emma Woods gets their before the Acle attackers the ball is cleared long out to the left side, picked up by Imanalijeva the striker takes it up the wing has Jade Kelly on that side with her lose sight of both as the crowd get excited, a shot comes blazing in however from distance, Nixon throwing herself to her right can't get to it the ball past her cannons off the post and deflects behind for a goal-kick. 

  GOAL! 27 minutes into a busy 1st half Acle go straight up the other end from the goal kick and take the lead the ball is played quickly through the midfield and a perfectly weighted pass picks out Todd as she cuts inside from the right, takes the ball on into the area, right of goal sends her shot across Vivas Artacho and into the back of the net to score her on her debut 1-0.

A goal on debut for Acle United Ladies, Megan Todd

 

Kate Pasque makes it
2-0 for Acle

GOAL! A blow for King's Lynn after matching Acle competitively for nearly half an hour find themselves 2-0 down just a minute after conceding, Acle get forwards down the right Larkins linking up Todd, a corner is won. The ball is fired in along the six yard box, comes straight at Pasque central, at head height a difficult ball to deal with, can't jump no time to stoop either makes good contact with her forehead turning the ball towards goal and into the back of the net 2-0.

  King's Lynn look for a response Sarchet getting the ball up to Shelley Woods moving out to the right turns towards the area holding it up before playing it back to Russell moving towards the right corner of the box, shoots her low drive held by Nixon at her near post. Acle attack down the right the ball played inside is helped on towards Burton who is fouled right on the edge of the area a shove in the back is OK after treatment, Larkins over the ball right of goal, Wells is free unmarked 20 yards out in a central position Larkins rolls the ball into her path fires the ball into the area too many bodies to squeeze through the shot is blocked. 

  Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva combine up front for King's Lynn the ball with Woods on the right turns inside reaching the area lays it across the face for Imanalijeva inside the D, digs the ball out from under her feet sending a rising shot goalwards, Nixon palms the ball down and gathers cleanly. Another chance for Imanalijeva moments later as Emma Woods breaks up an Acle attack gets the ball up field to Shelley Woods passes it out to Imanalijeva left side outside the area meets the ball 1st time slicing her shot away from goal. 

  A throw for King's Lynn on the left inside the Acle half Kelly into Imanalijeva heads the ball on towards the far post Shelley Woods coming onto it as it arrives in the six yard box fires the ball wide across the face of goal. Picking up the ball in half way Burton carries it forwards picking out Todd on the right, holding the ball up looks to spin in behind get into the area, Emma Woods goes with her gets a foot on the ball to push it on for Vivas Artacho to launch out of the area.

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of the 2nd half, Burton with another run from half way has Larkins bursting forwards on the right getting ahead of her rolls the ball into her path taking in on down the wing squares a fierce cross in across the six yard box, Vivas Artacho throwing herself forwards can't quite reach it, nor can Hodgson tracking back, somehow Wells gets in between them and pushes the ball over the line to make it 3-0.

   GOAL! Acle continue to attack late on in the 1st half, are hit on the break as Lisa Wilson wins the ball back plays it infield the ball on through the middle finds the attackers Shelley Woods and Imanalijeva next to each other in a central position 25 yards from goal, it's Imanalijeva who spins inside with the ball, a surging run into the area reaching the top of the six yard box fires her shot past Nixon to pull a goal back for King's Lynn 3-1. 

King's Lynn Town Ladies, Oksana Imanalijeva

Half-time Acle United Ladies 3-1 Kings Lynn Town Ladies

  An action paced 1st half Acle United Ladies leading the quarter final 3-1 at the break as the rain starts to slow and eventually stop. A competitive battle King's Lynn encouraged by a positive start had chances to take the lead, Acle prepared to push bodies on at timely intervals getting into a quick-fire 2-0 lead, more chances followed, Acle going on to score a 3rd goal, that scoreline harsh on King's Lynn going into half-time they pulled a goal back before the whistle to keep the deficit down to 2 goals.

  It's King's Lynn to kick-off the 2nd half. A change for Acle at the break, Burton off, Hooper moving up front with Rowland back on in midfield. Sarchet closes the ball down quickly in midfield for King's Lynn played the ball backwards for Emma Woods who sends it long over the top with Shelley Woods breaking in behind the Acle defence, Nixon quick quickly off her line to come sliding in and smothers the ball on the edge of the area. Shields with a good tackle deals with a high ball put in from the right for Acle.

  An early switch 2nd half for King's Lynn with Kelly the player substituted, Natalie Bunton coming on, is involved in the action straight away as Sarchet bringing the ball on through the middle releases her on the right wing, takes on the early shot outside the area the strike off target. The 2nd half has started in a similar tempo to the 1st half, both sides looking to attack, Acle's Wells has the ball on the left 25 yards from the King's Lynn goal opens up her body as she shoots sending a curling ball wide of the far post. 

  A good turn in the ball by Shelley Woods as the ball is played into her 25 yards out back to goal, escaping her marker lays the ball forwards for Russell on the left, taking the ball to the by-line is tackled by Shields the throw leading to a corner kick, swung in from the left towards the top of the area, won by Ladbrooke the ball is cleared, King's Lynn regain possession come forwards the ball played into the box claimed by Nixon. Acle press players forwards, Larkins going past Todd as the ball is held up by Hooper outside the area rolls it towards the on coming full-back shots the ball flying straight into Vivas Artacho's gloves the keeper positioned in the centre of her goal. 

Taylor Sarchet wins the ball for King's Lynn Town Ladies

  Sarchet gets forwards for King's Lynn as Shelley Woods has the ball out on the right for plays it across the face of the area, meeting it Sarchet fires a shot in across the keeper, diving full stretch to her right, Nixon makes the save pushing the ball wide of her goal. Larkins nips in to win the ball on the right inside the King's Lynn half fires it into Wells holding position outside the area right of the D, Hodgson gets a toe on the ball to stop her turning in behind, Wells gets back on the ball pushed wide lifts a cross towards the far post Todd coming in puts her shot wide of goal.

  A 50/50 tackle in the centre of the park leaves Sarchet down on the floor clutching her ankle in alot of pain, play is stopped looks a nasty one, receives lengthy treatment on the pitch, cannot carry on with her ankle now heavily bandaged is helped of the pitch, Emma Corbyn joining the action.  

 GOAL! Play held up for 4-5 minutes it's Acle who take advantage going on the attack the ball played up to right Todd on for Larkins taking the ball into the corner sends the cross long across the six yard box, Wells is their the ball behind her, thinks about the overhead kick, however Knights is right behind her, meets the ball 1st time sending it under the diving goalkeeper 4-1 extending Acle's lead with around 25 minutes left to play.

  GOAL! As in the 1st half one goal is quickly followed by another however it isn't Acle who extend their lead further. The ball is with Shelley Woods receiving it from a throw on the right side is inside the area, right corner shoved over the referee pointing to the spot, it's Woods herself to take it Nixon guesses right dives to her right but the ball is placed perfectly by Woods into the bottom corner of the net 4-2.

Diving full stretch, Acle United Ladies goalkeeper, Chloe Nixon can't stop Shelley Woods penalty

 A rush of blood moments later from Nixon as the Acle keeper comes rushing out of her area as King's Lynn, Shelley Woods is played in behind, gets to the ball 1st taking it past the stranded keeper on towards the edge of the box, Larkins gets back just in tome to stop Woods taking an early shot into an empty net, by the time the striker manoeuvres herself into a position to shoot her strike is cut out by Pasque and the threat cleared. King's Lynn bring Kelly back on replacing Bunton.

  Nixon hasn't been put off coming out for the ball the save is needed as Shelley Woods sends Kelly through on the right, the keeper coming outside the box making it the ball before Kelly can push it past her. A change of formation for King's Lynn as they look to try and pull a goal back, Wilson off at right back, Bunton back on to join the attack as they go 3-4-3 as the game moves into the final 15 minutes. 

Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland gets to the ball ahead of Becky Russell

  Rowland takes the ball forwards for Acle playing the pass out to Todd on the right, 30 yards from goal is given time and space to line up a shot, whips the ball in towards goal, isn't too far over the cross bar. Knights with a strong run on the left wing gets a corner for Acle the ball is playing into the middle, Pasque jumping highest heads the ball down into the ground right in front of Vivas Artacho the goalkeeper down quickly getting hold of the ball. A minute later up the other end Pasque head the ball clear of her area as Hodgson lifts in a free-kick from halfway. 

  Corbyn wins a 50/50 ball on the right plays it down the line for Bunton ahead of her travelling with the ball getting into the box on the right tries to cut the ball back into the six yard box from the by-line, Nixon has come the ball under her feet adjusted well to stab the ball away. Acle have a throw on the left, played in field into Rowland she attempts to lift the ball over the top for Todd breaking into the area, coming forwards Vivas Artacho get's her gloves around it 1st. Into the last 10 minutes and Acle are looking for a 5th goal. The ball is played into Wells 20 yards out, tries to turn, Emma Woods wins the tackle the the foul for King's Lynn.

 GOAL! No let up in the energy both sides keeping up a good tempo, Acle have possession with Rowland in the middle a good move sees her play the ball up to Wells outside the box on the right side this time, holding the ball up has support from Todd lays the ball back to her, Todd with a burst of pace drives into the box goes to shoot is brought down by Jones the penalty kick awarded. It's Todd herself to take it, hits the ball low and hard to the keepers right beyond Vivas Artacho's outstretched gloves into the bottom corner 5-2 with just a couple of minutes of normal time left on the clock.

King's Lynn Town Ladies captain Shelley Woods

 GOAL! Again King's Lynn respond with a goal, after a 20 strike from Imanalijeva is held by Nixon before King's Lynn win the ball from the kick out is played over the top Shelley Woods beating the offside trap and Nixon as the Acle goalkeeper comes out to close her down taking the ball to the left of goal, turns and lifts her shot over the defenders racing back to drop into the net beyond, 5-3.

  Into injury time Acle make a double switch, Jade Copeman and Sarah Howard on for Goodchild and Ladbrooke. A late chance for Acle who have the ball on the left getting a throw the ball is played into Knights fires a diagonal ball in across the face of the King's Lynn goal, throwing herself at it far post Howard can't get anything on the ball to deflect it goalwards. 

Full time Acle United Ladies 5-3 Kings Lynn Town Ladies

  A 5-3  win for Acle United sees them through to the semi-finals of the Norfolk Women's County Cup, a highly entertaining match plenty to cover, both sides playing their part in a competitive performance, both intent on attacking throughout the 90 minutes. King's Lynn can take alot away from the match a good test for their side that continues to improve. Acle with some good attacking play getting players forwards will fancy their chances in the semi-finals, where they will be joined by Wymondham Town Ladies who beat Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 and last seasons beaten finalists Aylsham FC Ladies who beat Briston Wanderers Ladies 3-2 away from home the winning goal coming in the last 30 seconds. Holders Thorpe United Ladies will be away to Bohemians Ladies next Sunday.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

 A tough one this Sunday with so many players putting alot of effort into 2 good team performances, but with her 2 goals on debut I've chosen Megan Todd, her pace and power on the ball adding a new dimension to the Acle United Ladies side.

  A great cup tie, entertaining plenty of goals and the rain even stopped. My thanks to both sides for their help with the team and sending my best wishes to King's Lynn Town Ladies, Taylor Sarchet hope she isn't too badly injured and makes a speedy recovery.

Cup Final Report - Aylsham FC Ladies v Thorpe United Ladies

  Trip the The FDC this Sunday to watch the 2015/16 Final of the Norfolk Women's County Cup between Aylsham FC Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies.

  There will be a new name engraved on the trophy too after today's final as the competition moves into it's 6th year. From it's conception in the 2010/11 season the Norfolk Women's County Cup has been dominated by Norwich City Ladies playing their football in the FAWPL South East Division One winning 4 finals in a row up until last season when they didn't enter the competition that allowed a chance for a new name to lift the cup last season, Acle United Ladies playing in Eastern Region Premier Division. Now it will be won by a side playing within the county football league set-up in Norfolk itself with both Aylsham FC Ladies and Thorpe United Ladies playing in Norfolk Women's Division One.

Road to the Final

  There were 3 ties to be played in the 1st round of the Norfolk Women's County Cup with the rest given a bye to the 2nd round, played back in October Aylsham FC Ladies were handed a difficult looking 1st round tie at home to North Walsham Angels Ladies one of the title favourites in Division Two. Turned out to be a thrilling encounter with 12 goals scored during the 90 minutes level at 6-6 going into extra-time Aylsham FC Ladies found a bit extra and went on to win 9-6 to reach the next round. 

  In the 2nd Round were at home again taking on fellow Norfolk Division One side Long Stratton Ladies, much more comfortable this time around winning 4-0 to make it into the quarter finals. 4-0 was the winning scoreline again on home soil again as they were drawn against Norfolk Division Three side Toftwood Ladies. Home again in the semi-finals taking on Norfolk Division Two side Red Rose Ladies won 3-1 to reach their 1st Norfolk Women's County Cup Final. An attacking side are rarely involved in low scoring games grinding out 1-0 wins isn't their forte. Goals can come from anywhere in the side, but with 30 goals to her name in all competitions this season striker Abbie Charlton is one to watch. One of two finals for Aylsham FC Ladies this season as they have also reached the final of the Norfolk Women's League Cup

   Thorpe United Ladies were also in action in the 1st Round an away drawn against the early pace setters in Norfolk Division Three, Harleston Ladies made short work of them racking up a 13-0 victory to progress to the 2nd Round. Different story in the 2nd Round drawn at home against fellow Division One side Wymondham Town Ladies, both sides amongst the favourites for the league title, Thorpe United Ladies edged the contest by a single goal to reach the quarter finals.

  At home again in the quarter finals drawn against Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies, progressed through to the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-0 victory to set up a repeat of last season's final as they were drawn at home against Acle United Ladies. A tough test however Thorpe United Ladies celebrated at the final whistle again winning by a single goal to reach their 3rd successive Norfolk Women's County Cup Final. Have made 3 final appearances to date and come so close last season missing out to Acle United Ladies in a penalty shootout will be determined to get their hands on the trophy and not another runner-up medal this time around their 3rd successive final appearance.

  The venue for today's Norfolk Women's County Cup Final, The FDC, Norfolk FA's Football Development Centre, boasting a number of all weather pitches and the main grass pitch on which today's final is to be played, a clubhouse and modern facilities on the outskirts of Norwich. The pitch itself looking in great condition a seated stand along one side for spectators a bright and sunny afternoon if a little chilly, good playing conditions all round as the two sides stepped out onto the pitch.

  Aylsham FC Ladies starting XI - Ania Vanston, Vikki Bird (C), Aneliese Smith, Alicia Lacey Becky Hibberd, Debbie Kelly, Lisa Ferdani Emma Gillespie, Leanne Woodward, Michaela England & Abbie Charlton.

  subs - Becky Hills, Sophie Burr-Walpole & Kiera Squires.

  Thorpe United Ladies starting XI - Kirstie Andrews, Nicole Read, Shannon Miles, Alice Ford, Cara Anderson, Jo Davey, Hayley Kindred, Charlotte Groves, Sharnie Boast, Rebecca Russell & Rebekah Lake (C).

   subs - Chelsea Clark & Natasha Evans.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's Thorpe to get the 2015/16 Norfolk Women's County Cup Final underway wearing pink shirts with black across the top of the sleeves, black shorts and pink socks with opponents Aylsham lined up opposite wearing orange shirts with a white and blue band across the front, blue shorts and orange socks. Right from the start Aylsham press Thorpe for the ball, Lisa Ferdani in the middle closing down the ball winning it and spreading play out to the left channel the ball is whipped across the Thorpe area, Michaela England coming in far side can't quite get onto the ball to take it forwards, wins a throw on the right.

  Aylsham keep Thorpe penned in their own half at the start, Alicia Lacey and captain Vikki Bird dealing with anything sent long, having won the County Cup with Acle last time out Sharnie Boast now plays in the pink colours of Thorpe United, wins a 50/50 in the centre looks to release Rebekah Lake, Thorpe's captain through the centre, Bird comes across to intercept. Aylsham try the same up the other end a good ball over the top right of the goal sees Abbie Charlton almost put though on goal into the area, Alice Ford gets across and lunging for the ball takes it away from the Aylsham attacker.

Aylsham's Alicia Lacey challenging Thorpe's Sharnie Boast for the ball

  Lacey is defending well early on and getting forwards on the ball for Aylsham, sending the ball long for Leanne Woodward ahead of her attacking space on the left she looks to come inside get into the area is tackled well by Thorpe's Cara Anderson. Thorpe having ridden out the early pressure applied by Aylsham start to get hold of the ball, Boast through the middle has Charlotte Groves making a forward run ahead of her playing the  ball on Groves lays it out to Hayley Kindred attacking the right wing, sends a cross into the Aylsham box, is headed away by Bird, rolls back to Boast 20 yards out who goes for the shot, on target is straight into the gloves of goalkeeper Ania Vanston.

   Great chance for Aylsham to take the lead the ball played forwards for Charlton making the forwards run into the box right side of goal, has Anderson on her shoulder with Thorpe goalkeeper Kirstie Andrews advancing, Anderson gets out of the way as Charlton reaches the ball hits her shot into Andrews the ball spinning to her right in front of goal, won't sit for Charlton who stretches to knock it down, on target, Anderson has gotten around her keeper and is back covering the goal line stops the ball and brings it away from goal. 

Sharnie Boast on the ball for Thorpe United Ladies

   Bringing the ball up over halfway for Thorpe midfielder Rebecca Russell sees the run Groves is making to get in behind the Aylsham defence plays the ball forwards, back spin on the ball stops Groves taking it into her stride lays it behind her to Boast who attempts the threaded ball through the Aylsham defence to play Groves in too much weight on the ball runs through to the keeper. Emma Gillespie get's on to the ball for Aylsham in the middle a good pass up to Charlton looking to break into the area is timely intercepted by Anderson. 

  GOAL! The opening goal of the Cup Final goes to Thorpe a little over 15 minutes played. A free kick is given away wide left inside the Aylsham half, it's Boast standing over the ball, good with a set piece plays a great ball into the area heading for goal, Vanston gets and glove up to stop the ball, but only succeeds in knocking it down into her six yard box, Thorpe have three players breaking away from the edge of the area and it's Kindred who gets to the ball to knock it home into the back of the net to give Thorpe the lead 0-1.

Hayley Kindred opens the scoring in the
Norfolk Women's County Cup Final

   Thorpe break from an Aylsham free kick inside their own half wide right cleared away edge of the area, Jo Davey up to Lake is clear through to chase the ball down, Vanston coming out of her area just makes it to the ball 1st to kick clear. Russell then has an opportunity to play Lake in through the middle again deeper this time, Bird wins the race and puts in a goo tackle to win the ball, comes out to Kindred wide right takes it up the wing before whipping the cross in again Bird is well placed to head clear. 

  Change for Thorpe with Nicole Read coming off at right back and Chelsea Clark, she immediately gives away a free kick to Aylsham wide right with Bird the player on the ball set to deliver sweeps it in towards the near post, Andrews comes and lays claim to the ball. Ferdani plays the ball over the top to the edge of the Thorpe area, Andrews comes towards the ball, Charlton racing in steals in on it before she can get there leaving the keeper stranded, taking the ball on to the touchline, can't get a shot away as Davey gets back on her to win the ball.

   Another free kick wide left for Thorpe a little closer than the one for the goal, Boast over the ball sends the shot in dropping near post Vanston saves well parrying the ball down then gathering. Groves charges forwards with the ball into the Aylsham half with Lake out to the right plays the ball up to her, holding it up well gives Kindred the chance to offer a passing option, plays the ball back to her, Kindred sends a high ball up into the area keeping her eye on the ball Vanston comes and claims well with Groves closing in the two collide the keeper getting the advantage.

   A free kick for Aylsham on the right just inside the Thorpe half, Charlton is over the ball, sends in a powerful strike, Andrews coming misjudges ad ends up under the ball as it sails over her can only turn, and catches the ball as it rebounds off the base of the far post back into her gloves. Thorpe let Bird carry the ball the length of the pitch before she is crowded off the ball on the edge of their area the break is on the ball launched up into the Aylsham half with Lake always the willing runner, Vanston comes out to meet her sliding in bravely at the edge of the box saves the ball trapping it between her legs.

Thorpe United Ladies captain, Rebekah Lake

   GOAL! Having come close to getting Lake in on goal, Thorpe eventually succeed as they force an error at the back from Aylsham, Groves taking the ball off Becky Hibberd as she rushes over to close the defender down on the left side of the attack puts the early diagonal ball in behind the centre backs with Lake on the move in between them, throws a foot forwards even as Vanston comes to try and reach the ball 1st a yard inside the box Lake get's to it 1st this time, sends the ball over Vanston and on into the back of the net 0-2. Close to half-time there is 2 minutes added time in the 1st half.

Half-time Aylsham FC Ladies 0-2 Thorpe United Ladies

  A lively 1st half, competitive as expected from both sides, Aylsham started very well causing Thorpe problems closing the ball down and sending it into Woodward and Charlton early, the defences have down well for the most part, Bird and Lacey in particular for Aylsham, Anderson and Ford with some timely tackles for Thorpe. Two errors have led to the goals Aylsham have conceded. 2-0 down they are no where near out of it, the next goal is crucial.

   Aylsham have kick off 2nd half, in front of a good sized crowd that has come to watch the final. Aylsham's Debbie Kelly plays the ball up to Ferdani the ball is sent up high into the Thorpe area is dealt with by Shannon Miles. Aylsham have an early free kick out on the left half way inside the Thorpe half the ball is sent into the area Andrews coming for the ball spills it comes out to Woodward on the left side inside the six yard box, doesn't make clean contact with the shot is on target near post however Miles is the play who gets across to defend the post and kick the shot clear.

  Charlton is busy if the ball isn't coming to her she will go looking for it, chasing back robs the Thorpe midfield turn and makes a surging run towards the Thorpe defence shots from 20 yards out the ball deflected off a defender running through to Andrews. Thorpe come down the left the ball rolled on into Boast comes inside and goes for the curling shot aiming for the top corner the shot drifts out beyond the far post. Double change for Aylsham as they bring off Kelly and England, Becky Hills and Sophie Burr-Walpole are introduced to the action. 

Aylsham FC Ladies, Abbie Charlton

  Kindred attacks down the right side for Thorpe wins her side a corner kick the ball is whipped it towards Boast coming from a deep position edge of the box towards the ball meets it on the half volley, the attempted shot is deflected behind for a 2nd corner kick. This time the ball is headed across the face of goal, no one far side to turn it home as it flies out for a goal kick. Strong run on the ball from Aylsham's Gillespie 30 yards out plays the ball forwards for Woodward racing into the Thorpe area the ball is just the wrong side of her, does well to turn and catch it with her heel try to send it on across Andrews but also off target as the ball runs wide.

   Aylsham are pushing hard winning the ball if conceding a few free kicks as they look to get a goal back. Hills has made a difference since coming on attacking on the right side, a strong player hard to shake off the ball, takes the ball on coming inside driving for the box, Anderson stands firm offering no way through. A fantastic chance comes Aylsham's way as they hit Thorpe on the counter attack Charlton and Woodward both timing their runs to perfection spring the offside trap as the ball is put over the top, the ball landing in Woodwards path, Andrews has to commit comes towards her, Woodward lifts her shot over her from the edge of the area and is left kicking the ground in frustration as she sees her shot sail over the crossbar.

Aylsham's Becky Hills with Thorpe's Shannon Miles

   Boast comes away with the ball from a 50/50 challenge has Lake ready to make the run ahead of her get into the box, Lacey is on the move even before Boast plays the ball and makes the interception. Going shoulder to shoulder with Burr-Walpole on the right Lake manages to get a shot away just inside the corner of the box, lacking any pace runs through to Vanston. Another powerful run in from the right from Hills for Aylsham she drives into the Thorpe area, Ford comes across and throwing herself in front of Hills makes the block as she goes to pull the trigger the ball deflected wide for a throw. 

  Woodward comes off for Aylsham with Kiera Squires coming on as they continue to press forwards, Burr-Walpole making ground up the left plays her cross in behind her attackers giving Russell tracking back a chance to clear the ball. Thorpe bring off Clark with read returning to the action. England is back on for Aylsham. Lake steals in to rob Aylsham of the ball and drives forwards into the box right side closing down the keeper, can only lift the ball straight into the keepers gloves.

Aylsham's Lisa Ferdani goes to challenge Thorpe's Charlotte Groves for the ball.

   Burr-Walpole carries the ball up the left side for Aylsham lifting her cross into the area everyone has gambled near post as the ball flues over every one landing far post no one is their to attack the ball with little under 10 minutes left to play. Can't get hold of the ball, Thorpe's Ford and Anderson getting onto the end of any through ball, Woodward returns to the field. Russell with the ball on the left side for Thorpe plays a great delivery into the box Lake is their under challenge with Smith manages to get a shot away puts it straight into Vanston's gloves again. 

  Into injury time, Thorpe try to play it into the corner keep Aylsham quiet, but they're having none of it, the ball is played back to Gillespie in the centre looks to play the long ball into the box for Woodward and Charlton to attack, bounces trough to the keeper. Thorpe get the ball up the other end and win a corner kick, don't go short playing it into the area Russell gets her head to the ball but can't direct the shot on target.

  Referee, Mary Harmer the 1st woman to officiate a Norfolk Women's County Cup Final, blows the final whistle and Thorpe United Ladies beat Aylsham FC Ladies 2-0 to win the Norfolk Women's County Cup Final, finally collect the trophy in their 3rd successive final. It's a big cup too can hold alot of champagne. An entertaining final, two fairly evenly matched sides Aylsham had their chances to score. Conceded two goals in the 1st half, Thorpe taking their chances well and defending well for the large part. Aylsham have another shot at silverware in two weeks time.

Thorpe United Ladies, Norfolk Women's County Cup Winners

  Congratulations to Thorpe United on winning the Norfolk Women's County Cup enjoy the celebrations. My thanks to Norfolk FA for their help today.