Match Report - Tottenham Hotspur Ladies v West Ham United Ladies

  Semi-final action from the Ryman Cup this Thursday evening on the Supporting Women's Football Blog a trip down to Cheshunt FC to watch Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United Ladies.

    This fixture is already a week late having been postponed from last Thursday, rearranged for tonight, both sides are rearing to go, just get a competitive match under their belts as neither has played since the 20th December 2015. A cup semi-final, a London derby too.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies reached the final of the competition last season, ended up runners-up as Charlton Athletic Women went on to lift the trophy. Entered the competition at the quarter final stage with an away trip to take on Gillingham FC Ladies a match I went along to watch back at the end of November 2015. Turned out to be a real thriller with Tottenham looking good at 3-0 up before Gillingham came back to make it 3-2, one more each to make it 4-3 to Tottenham who went on to seal it 5-3 with a goal from Lucy Loomes. One game away from another final.

   So too are West Ham United Ladies, and this is their 1st game in the Ryman Women's Cup. No fault of their own were drawn away in the quarter finals too, only for their opponent having to withdraw from the competition after infringing the rules. One game away from a final and a chance to win some silverware. This is the 1st time I will have seen West Ham United Ladies play. One of the more proactive clubs on social media has been a turbulent  season so far a new manager in and a player dispute that saw 6 1st team regulars leave including their captain and vice captain, said my piece on that at the time, not the PR they wanted. Everything has to move on and the club has been busy recruiting new faces from England and overseas, goalkeeper Lauren Picton has come in along with Elizabeth Berkeley formerly with Millwall Lionesses. Italian and French players too, Giulia Ferrandi came in earlier in the season, more recently Cindy Ferreira has joined the club, with two more Llona Dronne and Claire Lallant sent to join from across the channel. A large influx of players will cause a transitional phase but with the season well under way West Ham United Ladies have to hit the ground running.

   The venue tonight Tottenham Hotspur Ladies new home ground this season, Cheshunt FC, a great stadium to host FAWPL football, a large pitch surrounded by a ground that is under going redevelopment new club house and refreshments with hot food available is on going but not affecting the supporters enjoyment of the football. A clear and cold evening my 1st midweek match of 2016.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI - Toni-Anne Wayne, Sophie McClean, Leah Rawle, Alex Keown, Jenna Schillaci (C), Shannon Moloney, Lucia Leon, Wendy Martin, Rosie Kmita, Avilla Bergin & Bianca Baptiste.
  subs - Chloe Morgan, Riana-Devi Soobadoo, Molly Kmita, Ronnell Humes & Lucy Loomes.

   West Ham United Ladies starting XI - Lauren Picton, Elizabeth Berkeley, Olivia Sammons, Hannah Wheeler, Chelsea Hinz, Katie Bottom (C), Gemma Abela, Karen Ray, Whitney Locke, Giulia Ferrandi & Romina Pinna.
   subs - Cindy Ferreira, Georgia Miller, Daniella Ritson, Erika Campesi & Rosie Missen.

  Under the lights it's West Ham to get the tie underway kicking off the 1st half wearing claret and blue shirts, white shorts with claret socks against Tottenham lined up opposite wearing white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Lauren Picton in goal for West Ham tonight with Indian international goalkeeper Aditi Chaunan away with her national side.

   The visitors look to spread play out to the left from the start Olivia Sammons pushing up the pitch from left back, looking to bring the ball down and take on Sophie McClean the Tottenham right back closes her down wins the ball, the home side set up a rapid counter attack the ball play switched out to Avilla Bergin to attack down the left side, takes on Elizabeth Berkeley the pace on the ball allowing her to get round the full back she bursts into the area closing in on the byline pulls the trigger as she enters the six yard box, West Ham goalkeeper Lauren Picton dives at her near post, the shot is under her, bulges the side netting.

   Tottenham soon impose themselves on the match with possession inside the West Ham half pushing their defence back using the width on both wings, a throw from the left is brought down and the cross swept into the area at the far post Wendy Martin gets her head on the ball sending it back into the centre, drops for Bianca Baptiste around the penalty spot, she looks to turn it goalwards put Martin through, instead places it too close to Picton the keeper scooping up the ball. 

  Tottenham's build up play is fast and fluid players executing short passes then moving quickly to get past West Ham make themselves available for the return ball, Rosie Kmita out right has Martin in front of her rolling her in she squares her cross along the face of the box, a yard inside the pass is just behind Baptiste, the striker recovers well spinning back and getting over the ball to get a shot away is dragged wide of the post. Baptiste is the player coming in from the right side as Tottenham regain possession on half way in behind the West Ham back line she unleashes her shot Picton dives to try and reach it, the shot flashes across the face of goal and out the other side, a corner is signalled, Picton getting the faintest of touches. The corner is delivered to Martin at the far stick again, her header down into the area is met by Lucia Leon looks to hit the ball as it falls to her plants the ball straight into Picton's gloves.

   West Ham cannot make it stick up top with all of their players back in their own half at times, when they do try and push up they risk Tottenham getting in behind, both centre backs are busy, Chelsea Hinz having to keep an eye on Martin, whilst Hannah Wheeler does well against Baptiste as the striker attempts to try and steal in behind her. Martin has a go from distance with Baptiste getting hold of the ball on the left travelling at speed wraps her foot over the ball sending a fierce ball across the park coming at Martin fast her 1st touch is very good sets up the half volley meeting it sweetly lifts her shot over the bar. Baptiste and Martin are linking well tonight with the pair looking to move the instance the ball is won back, the pass fired in towards Baptiste her back to goal allows the ball to roll with Martin making a run to get into the area on the right side, Baptiste turns and diverts the ball through to her, Picton seeing the threat is already on the move throws herself down in front of Martin making the save at Martin's feet.

   West Ham's attackers have had little of the ball Whitney Locke playing on the right side makes progress up the wing gets her side a throw, from there the ball is swept into the area, Tottenham's Alex Keown heads the ball out falls to Italian, Giulia Ferrandi 25 yards out looks to send a strike in on goal, the ball drops into the gloves of Toni-Anne Wayne well placed in the Tottenham goal. The home side set up a quick fire counter the ball put out to the right early Rosie Kmita sending the ball into the area with Martin the sole target, up against Berkeley she gets in front of her with the ball dropping, has to stoop to get her head on the ball, good contact however the ball is turned wide of the post. 

   West Ham bringing the ball out from the back encourage players to make runs, in the middle Gemma Abela spreads play with a long ball from just inside her half with Locke bombing up from the right to get into a central position, Wayne comes racing out of her area and get's there 1st to clear, needed too. From the throw on the right, Locke is put in down the channel, wrapping her foot around the ball sends her cross along the face of the goal, just a little too high for Romina Pinna coming in at the far post.

   Bergin ploughs forwards on the left looking to come inside as she enters the area, the corner kick is conceded, Baptiste to take it looks to curl one in towards the near post, is going in, Picton under pressure with white shirts around her does well to get it away standing on her line, another corner is conceded this one Baptiste plays long to the far post looks to head the ball down towards goals, West Ham have bodies in the way the shot is blocked.

   GOAL! 30 minutes played and Tottenham finally break the dead lock have been putting the West Ham defence under alot of pressure with their pace and player movement, Bergin has been over on the right side for the past few minutes getting onto the ball she surges down the wing as the home side easily regain possession, sends an early ball into the area with just Baptiste to aim for, the striker coming in from the left gets herself in front of Berkeley as the two enter the six yard box, directs her shot past Picton off the post and it's in 1-0.

  Pinna and Katie Bottom the West Ham captain try to build an attack up the right, Bottom playing the ball into Pinna, the Italian sends the ball back into her then spins looking to get in behind, Bottom gets the ball over the top into her run, Jenna Schillaci, Tottenham's captain reads the move prevents Pinna getting into the box. Ferrandi with a burst of pace does put Pinna through on goal moments later cutting in from the right side the striker is onto the ball put over into the area closing in on Wayne coming across to cover her near post, smashes her shot against her, tries to get something on the rebound knocks the ball out of play. West Ham make a change bring on Erika Campesi for Berkeley with Bottom dropping in at right back Campesi in front of her. 

  GOAL! Penalty to Tottenham! Another rapid counter move from the home side see's Martin on the ball and powering forwards towards the area, bursting inside she is brought down the referee points immediately to the penalty spot. Martin gets up and it's her to take the spot kick, cool as you like outside of the foot sends the ball to the right and into the back of the net 2-0 with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play

Wendy Martin making it 2-0 to Tottenham from the penalty spot.

 Half-time Tottenham Hotspur Ladies 2-0 West Ham United Ladies 

  The referee brings the 1st half to a close with Tottenham continuing to press forwards looking to add to the scoreline. The goals coming late in the half the home side have been dominant 1st half their pace, movement and reading of the play far better than West Ham's who have lacked fluidity and communication been unable to retain possession of the ball needed a spell to settle thing's down didn't come 1st half. 2-0 down however the tie is far from over, need to be better 2nd half if they want to get back into the match.

 

   West Ham have made a change at the start of the 2nd half with one of their new signings Cindy Ferreira on in place of Karen Ray the French player a more attacking option. Tottenham get the 2nd half under way. One of the thing's West Ham needed to do was press the ball higher up the and straight from the start you can see this is exactly what they are trying to do with Ferrandi in particular looking to get after the Tottenham defenders when they look to bring it out from the back. 

   GOAL! An early goal in the 1st half would go along way to deciding the tie and it's the last thing West Ham wanted as they find themselves 3-0 down. Trying to push up the West Ham defence is caught out as the ball is put into Martin 25 yards out taking the ball on into the area moving away to the left of the goal, takes on the shot lifting the ball over Picton it crashes against the cross bar and drops favourably inside the six yard box for Bergin coming in from the right to send over the line.

  Play is brought back for a Tottenham free kick 30 yards out as Baptiste looks to bring the ball forwards is brought down. The free kick is put in towards the crowded penalty spot, Hinz with a firm defensive header gets it clear. A few strong challenges flying about the referee stops play to have a word calm it down in the middle. A mis-cued clearance from the back for Tottenham presents Ferrandi with a half chance 22 yards out left side fires the shot back in the ball travelling along the ground straight at Wayne.

  Ferreira with good hold up play on the right for West Ham wins the visitors a corner kick the delivery is swept in towards the far post both Pinna and Wheeler are their the ball is turned on target Tottenham have plenty of white shirts in front of the ball to block. Ferreira links up with Pinna on the right side squaring the ball into Pinna she looks to turn and hit from the corner of the box doesn't get the contact she wants the ball running along the ground claimed by Wayne. 

  Campesi is brought down in the middle of the park, West Ham play the set piece into the area on the right side Pinna gets the ball across towards the far post, Locke is coming in to meet the ball, looks to place her headed ball past Wayne coming across ends up putting it straight into the keepers gloves. Tottenham bring off Shannon Moloney, bring on Molly Kmita who goes to right back with McClean moving into the midfield. The 2nd half a lot more even than the 1st half both sides looking for the quick counter attack, the ball is fired into Pinna 20 yards out back to goal looks to turn and hit the shot, blasts it wide. West Ham lose the ball as they move forwards straight away Martin is off looking to get in behind wanting the ball put through to her, into the box right of goal, looks to see the ball across her hit the shot, Picton comes racing out to close her down sliding in the shot is smashed against her.

  Georgia Miller comes on for West Ham, Locke the player giving way. Soon after Tottenham make another change with Baptiste coming off, Ronnell Humes coming on to join the attack. Ferreira has given the West Ham attack a little more bite 2nd half as she looks to get on the ball and drive at the players in front of her, a good run coming in from the left fires her cross in towards the six yard box, Wayne gets down to claim it gets hurt as Pinna tries to steal in before her, needs treatment play is held up West Ham having a corner, Wayne is okay to continue, the corner is defended cleanly at the near post. 

   GOAL! The game enters the last 10 minutes a 3 goal advantage Tottenham are in control attacking down the right side Rosie Kmita is sent tumbling. The free kick is awarded.the ball right side of the area is sent into the centre of the six yard box comes into Martin who looks to control and turn it past Picton close on her, Picton gets herself down to make the save, can't hold onto the ball and spilling loose falls to Humes beside Martin, she sends the ball back crossing the line to score her 1st senior goal for the club 4-0. 

  West Ham now 4-0 down push players forwards trying to get something out of the match, Pinna wins her side a corner kick on the right. The ball is fired into her feet, shifts it before playing it back towards Campesi outside the box she hits the shot 1st time Tottenham again have the bodies back to put in the block. With play stretched Tottenham have space in behind and the players to exploit it Rosie Kmita has made two or three runs out to the left without being spotted, get's it this time and racing in around the full back cuts the ball back into the box with Martin arriving on cue to meet the ball with a strong header, over the keeper the ball smashes against the bar, falls back down into the area, Leah Rawle having gotten up to support the attack is leaning back as she lunges to try and turn it home sends the ball wide. 

  GOAL! Into the 90th minute Tottenham attack down the right side with Molly Kmita bringing the ball forwards rolling it into Humes peeling out towards the wing, taking on her marker gets in behind and sends the cross into Bergin making a move towards the near post, clever play from Bergin knows where Picton is she sees the ball into her feet then produces a neat little turn to whip the ball home across the face of goal 5-0. 

  Injury time is all Tottenham's as they see out the final whistle and win the semi-final to reach their 2nd successive Ryman Women's Cup Final. Dominated very early on and although West Ham improved 2nd half they got the early 3-0 cushion in the 2nd half always in control of the tie. Will find out next Wednesday who their opponents will be as holders Charlton Athletic Women take on Herne Bay Ladies at home. Whoever they face Tottenham will want to go one better this time around.

   

  Win or lose both sides have some much needed competitive minutes under their belts. Both are in FA Women's Cup action this coming Sunday, having seen their 2nd Round Proper ties postponed twice will be hoping it's 3rd time lucky, West Ham with another London derby away to Crystal Palace Ladies, whilst Tottenham have an away match against Swindon Town Ladies.

   My thanks to both clubs for their help with their teams tonight.  

   

Match Report - Gillingham FC Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

   A midweek trip down into Kent on the Supporting Women's Football Blog, my 2nd look at Gillingham FC Ladies in 4 days as they play host to Tottenham Hotspur Ladies in the quarter finals of the Ryman Women's Cup.

  For both sides the Ryman Women's Cup represents an opportunity to contest for a piece of silverware. Saw Gillingham FC Ladies play in the 1st Round of the competition a little over a month ago as they travelled up to Suffolk to take on Bury Town Ladies. Made short work of their lower league opponents coming away with a convincing 10-0 victory with Paige Baker-Carroll scoring 7 of their goals. Tonight they face higher league opponents themselves.

  Tottenham Hotspur Ladies lost out to Charlton Athletic Women in the Ryman Women's Cup final last season and the FAWPL Southern Division side will fancy their chances of reaching the final and maybe going one better this time around. This is their 1st match in this years competition having had a bye in the 1st Round. 

  The venue for tonight's match Chatham Town FC, a nice little non league stadium with a clubhouse, bar and refreshments adjacent to a terraced stand behind one goal as you walk in through the turnstiles, with two covered seated stands running part way on either side of the pitch which itself is a good size. A cold but clear night, time to think about digging the hat out. 

   Gillingham FC Ladies starting XI - Sarah Quantrill, Lauren Williams (C), Madison North, Charlotte Thurston, Rachel Ahern, Emma Tune, April Bowers, Katie Hardaker, Ashleigh Loosemore, Paige Baker-Carroll & Kallie Balfour

   subs - Lydia Wills, Jade Keogh, Fiona Constable, Imogen Alabaster.

   Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI - Barbara Holman, Sophie McLean, Molly Kmita, Jenna Schillaci (C), Alex Keown, Shannon Moloney, Meegan Wynne, Maya Vio, Wendy Martin, Katie O'Leary & Lucy Loomes.

   subs - Bianca Baptiste, Rosie Kmita, Kelley Blanchflower & Lucia Leon.

  It's Tottenham in there usual home kit colours, white shirts and socks with Navy shorts to kick off the 1st half with Gillingham wearing red tonight with the vertical blue and white stripe on the shirt and horizontal blue and white stripe on the right leg of their shorts. Players who have been involved with FAWSL 2 clubs this season in both starting line-ups, Sarah Quantrill on loan from Millwall Lionesses in goal for Gillingham, whilst Lucy Loomes from London Bees was starting for Tottenham in attack tonight.

   A tentative start from both sides as they try to work the ball into the wide channels, Loomes on the right side for Tottenham having a run at Gillingham's Madison North, the left back getting the tackle in to rob her of the ball bring it out from the back tries to release Paige Baker-Carroll up the left as she looks to break into space on the left inside the Tottenham half, centre back Alex Keown gets across the pitch to halt her progress.

   Shannon Moloney in the centre of midfield for Tottenham win the back for the visitor's spreads the play out to the right with Loomes available, driving inside this time looks to thread the ball into the box with Wendy Martin looking to get behind the Gillingham centre backs, Charlotte Thurston steps up to intercept the pass, Tottenham are putting a lot of work into hustling Gillingham's back line and midfield for the ball winning it back are looking to spread the play right or left early. Bombing forwards from left back covering a lot of grass out wide for Tottenham Sophie McLean gets the ball at her feet driving to the byline crosses the ball in towards the near post with Loomes the player closing in, Quantrill has come across to defend the angle gets hold of the ball 1st.

   GOAL! Putting pressure on the Gillingham back four, Tottenham force a throw in deep in their territory on the right of the pitch, the ball is put into the area flashing across the face of goal, Martin is looking to get on the end of it with Gillingham captain Lauren Williams in close attendance the ball ends up in the back of the net turned in off Williams for and own goal 0-1.

   15 minutes gone opportunities for Gillingham's attackers Baker-Carroll and Kallie Balfour are limited the ball not reaching them in the final 3rd, strong on the ball when she has it at her feet Baker-Carroll holds it up well on the left, turns her marker 20 yards out pushing inside sees Balfour in front of the D looks to set her up for a shooting opportunity, instead Keown lunges out a leg and takes the ball away from the striker.

   Moloney on the ball plays the pass out to Loomes on the right side from half way she gets her head down and races forwards coming inside, Martin is making the run in front of her coming across to the right side of the area, Loomes threads the pass though into her path six yards out right of the goal Martin pulls the trigger, smashes her shot straight into Quantrill as the goalkeeper gets across to cover the post, Gillingham get the ball away.

  GOAL! Can't keep it for long as Tottenham win it back on halfway over on the left side of the field Megan Wynne plays a great pass forwards over the Gillingham defence with Martin making another fantastic run to get in behind left of the area the ball falls nicely for her she can hit it on the run sends the shot low and hard across the area and into the back of the net 0-2.

   Very competitive in the middle of the park, Katie O'Leary comes back into the heart of the action to win the ball back for Tottenham looks up sees Loomes making a run for her looking to run across the Gillingham defence and turn into the box from right to left, Williams stays with Loomes throws herself forwards to win the tackle. 

  Tottenham win a corner on the left is played in towards the near post, Martin rises the highest, knocks the ball down towards the edge of the area, falls to Keown who takes on the shot the ball cutting it's way through the bodies, rebounds off the goal post, Gillingham scramble it away for another corner this one on the right. Thurston gets in front of Martin this time to head the ball over for a 3rd corner, this one is cleared.

  O'Leary with a powerful run coming in from the left wing as she drives towards the box gets into the area, getting closed down squeezes the ball out to the edge of the area with Mayo Vio available in space, goes for goal a looping effort not enough height to trouble Quantrill who plucks it down for a comfortable save.

  Emma Tune comes across to the left wins the ball for Gillingham looks to release Baker-Carroll down the wing, Keown comes across to slide in win the ball Baker-Carroll tumbling over her, a good tackle however Keown stays down in a lot of pain needs treatment holding her ankle play is paused. Is able to continue, Gillingham lose the ball from the throw Tottenham counter attack Wynne almost sending Loomes through, Thurston the only player between her and the box gets the timing of her challenge spot on. Quantrill has to race out to the edge of her area smother the ball at the feet of the onrushing Martin after O'Leary plays the through ball wide left.

   Out of nothing Gillingham get bodies forwards as Katie Hardaker gets onto the ball in the centre plays a great pass into Tune running towards the Tottenham box right side she takes on the shot early sending it across the goal face leaving Tottenham goalkeeper Barbara Holman stranded, she turns to see the ball hit the bottom of the far post before the visitors get it clear.

  Tune on the ball drives over the halfway line, Baker-Carroll arm up wants the ball played into her path on the left getting it her 1st touch gives her a yard on Tottenham captain Jenna Schillaci the angle is acute as she shoots inside the box looking to put the ball across Holman the keeper gets down makes the save hold onto the ball. Tottenham are forced into making a chance as Vio is down in the middle of the park, can't carry on Bianca Baptiste comes on goes out wide right with Loomes pushed forwards Martin dropping deeper into the centre of midfield.

  GOAL! With half-time fast approaching Tottenham extend their lead Loomes closing down the Gillingham defence inside their own box robs them of the ball comes to the feet of O'Leary left of the goal hits the shot plenty of pace into the back of the net 0-3.

   Into 1st half injury time Ashleigh Loosemore brings the ball down the right for Gillingham, players racing forwards with her Baker-Carroll is on that side of as the ball comes to her she breaks into the box shoots, Holman makes the blocking save at her near post the ball flies back out into the centre of the box Tottenham don't clear, Gillingham regain the ball Bowers with the shot from outside the box is heading for the top corner, Holman throws herself up into the air turns the ball wide for a corner. Tottenham defend the set piece.

Half-time Gillingham FC Ladies 0-3 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

  A clinical display from Tottenham in the 1st half looking dangerous whenever they attack finding space on the flanks haven't given the Gillingham defence any time on the ball the home side struggling to build anything from the back. At 2-0 down there were signs Gillingham might find a way back into the game before Tottenham added a 3rd goal late on, a lot to do for the home side as they kick off the 2nd half.

   Both sides have made a change at the start of the 2nd half both substituting a centre back, Keown is off for Tottenham with Rosie Kmita on at left back as Sophie McLean moves into the middle of defence. Charlotte Thurston is the player off for Gillingham with midfielder Jade Keogh on, the move sees April Bowers drop into the defence.

  1st chance in the 2nd half falls to Tottenham with Loomes racing onto a ball lofted into the left channel, on the run hits the shot on the half volley from outside the box drills the ball wide of goal. Loosemore has some space to exploit out on the right drives forwards crosses the ball early sweeping it across the face of the six yard box, Baker-Carroll is sprinting into the area to get there throws her boot forwards but can't get anything on the ball to turn it home. On the over lap from left back substitute Rosie Kmita gets clear of the Gillingham defence her 1st touch a little heavy gives Quantrill a chance coming out to the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball at her feet.

  A frantic start to the 2nd half the action at both ends of the pitch, Loomes is through after a long pass dropped into the Gillingham box, Madison North gets across in front of her defends well getting onto the ball and carrying it out to safety. Wynne is caught late by Bowers as the centre back sets out of defence to deal with the next Tottenham attack, the referee plays advantage with Wynne's ball setting up Kmita racing through on the left bursting into the box blasts her shot straight into Quantrill who holds onto it. 

  Great ball control from Loomes outside the Gillingham area turns inside from left to right head over the ball gets the shot away 20 yards out a great strike destined for the top right hand corner off the goal, takes a superb save from Quantrill to get her fingers on the ball tip it onto the crossbar and over for a corner kick. The corner is delivered into the crowded near post drops down into the pack a scramble ensues before Gillingham launch it clear.

  GOAL! Gillingham pull a goal back, just 6 minutes have gone in the 2nd half, Loosemore out on the right gets in behind the Tottenham defence bursts down the line before sending the cross in low along the front of the area, Baker-Carroll is in a central position her back to goal shields the ball well has Balfour out to her right plays the pass out to her, Balfour goes for goal hitting the shot across Holman and into the far corner 1-3.

  GOAL! No sooner have Gillingham got themselves a goal back they make it 2! Bowers stepping out of defence intercepts a Tottenham pass plays it into Keogh on halfway she passes it forwards into Hardaker who looks to slide Baker-Carroll through beyond the Tottenham defence making a run across the D is bundled over, the referee blows up, from my position I thought it was a penalty at 1st however it's a free kick right on the edge of the box instead. North is the player over the ball, goes for goal a well struck set piece up and over the wall and into the top corner of the net 2-3. Game on.

  Gillingham make a 2nd change bringing off Balfour with Lydia Wills joining Baker-Carroll in attack. A much more even contest 2nd half, Tottenham win a free kick on halfway wide left, Schillaci to deliver the ball sends it into Martin inside the D she leaps knocks it down with Loomes wide of her left of the goal inside the box gets her head on the ball directs her effort wide of goal. Breaking up a Gillingham attack the ball is played into Martin inside their opponents half is falling as she looks to turn and play the through for Loomes racing out to the left, Ahern comes across to defend, Loomes shifts the ball between her feet and turns inside, Ahern stays on her keeping her out of the box, Loomes gets the shot away, North is across to help Ahern and gets her body in the way of the shot deflects it wide for a corner which the home side clear.

  GOAL! Tottenham have a throw on the left the ball is played down the wing for O'Leary 3 Gillingham players are drawn towards her as she holds it up before nutmegging the closest player giving her room to play the ball back to Loomes coming to her left of the area she looks to drive across the face again goes for the shot low with the pace to take it across Quantrill and nestle in the bottom corner of the goal 2-4.

  GOAL! Just as Tottenham give themselves a 2 goal cushion, Gillingham hit back, with Tune travelling out to the right side of the pitch whips her cross along the face of the goal, Baker-Carroll is there along with a Tottenham defender not sure who got the final touch to set the ball over the line but I'm sure Baker-Carroll will be happy to claim it 3-4.

  Final change for Gillingham with Fiona Constable coming on for Ashleigh Loosemore. Tottenham go forwards win a throw on the left inside the Gillingham half, Loomes wants it, turns inside sends the square ball into Moloney 30 yards out, has Wynne to her right rolls the ball into her path, Wynne tees up the shot puts the ball straight into Quantrill's gloves.

  Loomes driving into the box from the left is denied a shot on goal as Williams slides in to put the ball behind for a corner kick. Schilaci plays the set piece in towards the near post six yards out Martin leaps to head the ball, turns it over the bar. Gillingham give away another free kick on half way wide left again, Schillaci looks to deliver the ball to the far post this time, Loomes gets clear of everyone her header takes the ball wide of the post.

  GOAL! 10 minutes of normal time left to play, Loomes is causing all sorts of problems for the Gillingham defence harrying them on the ball a back pass is played back to Quantrill, lacks the pace to reach Quantrill, Loomes is after it, the goalkeeper comes throws herself down to get hold of the ball a yard inside the box, the referee has no choice but to awards an indirect free kick to Tottenham. Gillingham put everyone back on the goal in front of Quantrill. Martin with her back to goal shifts the ball to her left with Loomes in front of her to hit the shot, smashes it through the bodies in front of her to hit the back of the net 3-5.

  Gillingham press hard for another goal, Williams with a ball over the top for Baker-Carroll, Holman races out of her box to kick the ball away. Molly Kmita with a great run on the right for Tottenham plays the ball into the run of Martin in the middle blasts the shot on the run outside the box lifts the strike over the crossbar. 

   The game finishes a frantically and fast paced as it started but neither side can find another goal as the final whistle blows and Tottenham book their place in the Ryman Women's Cup semi-finals with a 5-3 win.

  What a game, great entertainment to watch, 8 goals scored Tottenham having the better of the 1st half by far going in at the break 3-0 to the good. Gillingham did much better 2nd half fighting back to 2-3 then 3-4 to make for a thrilling finish.

  Two more semi-finalists were sorted this week to, played on Tuesday night, holders Charlton Athletic Women beating Essex Women's Division One leaders Harlow Ladies 10-0 whilst Herne Bay Ladies beat Carshalton Athletic Ladies 4-1. 

  Had a feeling this match would be a good one to watch, wasn't disappointed, thanks to Gillingham and Tottenham for their help with the teams.

  

  

  

  

   

Match Report - Bury Town Ladies v Gillingham FC Ladies

   Midweek football from the Ram Meadow Stadium in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk to watch a match in the 1st round of this season's Ryman Women's Cup, Bury Town Ladies v Gillingham FC Ladies.

   Was this time last year when I came to see Bury Town Ladies play for the 1st time at the Ram Meadow Stadium, overlooked by the sugar beet factory as they took on Tottenham Hotspur Ladies in the 1st round of last season's Ryman Women's Cup. Lost the game 7-0 but that said it was a great experience for the team to play a side in the FA Women's Premier Division, 3 leagues above them.

   The gap is 2 leagues this time around but no less a stiff test for Bury Town Ladies as they were drawn against Gillingham FC Ladies in the 1st round of the competition. Bury Town Ladies competing in the ERWFL Division One East have seen a few comings and goings since that game have brought in Zoe Klimcke formerly of Haverhill Rovers and Laura Brame who was at Brandon Town Ladies along with Mia Bambury and Mikaela Tolbert. Had captain Emma Boreham unavailable for selection tonight due to a call up to the Suffolk County side and Lisa Pratt was out with injury.

   Gillingham FC Ladies were relegated from the FAWPL Southern Division last season and now competing in the FAWPL South East Division One are looking to bounce straight back up and to that end have started the season well. Has been a while since I was down at Chatham Town FC to see them play nearly 2 seasons and they have seen a mini transitional period with a few players following former manager James Marr to Brighton & Hove Albion WFC. Jack Wheeler is now in charge of the 1st team at Gillingham FC Ladies and brought a strong looking squad up to Suffolk for tonight's match.

  Eventually that is as with half an hour to go there was no sign of Gillingham FC Ladies at the ground, a midweek trip up from Kent into Suffolk isn't the easiest of journeys and news that they had broken down on the way up filtered through, were on their way however kick off put back to 8:05 as they made it into the changing rooms at 7:30. Not a lot of time to warm up and prepare, but they were ready to go, a clear evening, dry after a wet day in the region.

 Bury Town Ladies starting XI - Charlotte Osborne, Helen Cryer, Stephanie Hanratty, Zoe Klimcke, Mia Bambury, Norma Locker, Gemma Carter, Elle Whitehurst, Mikaela Talbot, Laura Brame & Catherine Upton.
 subs - Kerry Knott Emma Baldry Shelby Beveridge, Laura Bloomfield & Shelley Cocksedge.

 Gillingham FC Ladies starting XI - Imogen Alabaster, Lauren Williams (C), Georgia Reece, Emma Tune, Rachel Ahern, Jade Keogh, Madison North, Ashleigh Loosemore, Lydia Wills, Shannon Redhouse & Paige Baker-Carroll.
 subs - Hollie Musmeci & Fiona Constable.

   It's Gillingham wearing an all red strip to kick off the match under the lights with Bury lined up opposite all in blue in a 3-5-2 formation. A positive start from Bury have the ball in the Gillingham half as captain Norma Locker looks to make a run with the ball attempts to play the through ball for Cat Upton in attack, Gillingham centre back Ashleigh Loosemore making the interception. Gillingham captain Lauren Williams is down after a challenge in need of treatment giving. Bury try to take advantage of having the extra player on the pitch for the moment good pressing from Laura Brame sees Gillingham give the ball away comes to Locker who pushes forwards towards the area before laying it off to her right 20 yards out Mia Bambury receives the ball takes on the shot a speculative effort is at a comfortable height for Gillingham goalkeeper Imogen Alabaster to save.

   Bury's Michaela Tolbert attempts to take the ball forwards from the centre into the area, Loosemore puts in a great sliding tackle to win the ball, then bringing it out of defence plays the ball long up the right with Shannon Redhouse the player sprinting to get after it, Charlotte Osborne makes the decision to race out of her area and come clear the ball for a throw. Gillingham with everyone back on the pitch are starting to build momentum in attack, Paige Baker-Carroll making only her 2nd start for Gillingham has the ball out on the left driving forwards shoots early the low effort flashing across the face of goal and out of play.

  GOAL! Gillingham open the scoring as they catch the Bury defence with Redhouse ready to race into the space available on the right of pitch the ball is put through to her, has Lydia Wills central with Baker-Carroll to her left bursting forwards to get into the Bury box, Redhouse's cross is swept across the face of the area, is behind Wills, comes through to Baker-Carroll who shoots sending the ball across the keeper as Osborne throws herself to her right can't reach it as the ball sails into the back of the net 0-1. 12 minutes played.

  Baker-Carroll is on the ball looking to take on the Bury defence and burst into the area to create a shooting chance, Zoe Klimcke recovers gets back to put in the tackle to deny the chance concedes a corner kick. Another last ditch tackle is needed from Helen Cryer for Bury as Wills is given the ball and tries to push her way through the middle into the Bury box as the visitors start to get some meaningful possession on the ball. Redhouse catches the Bury back line out again on the right with both Wills and Baker-Carroll on the move again, Cryer has to come across deal with Redhouse this leaves Baker-Carroll unmarked the ball come into her the shot hit 1st time is high over the bar.

    Osborne makes a fantastic save on her line pure instinct following a Gillingham corner taken on the left played short the cross is put in from deep towards the near post, Baker-Carroll is a yard out meets it Osborne in between her and the goal gets something on the ball to turn it away. The ball isn't cleared far before being played back into the area, Cryer slides in to win the tackle as Wills looks to make room for a shot. A tactical switch from Bury sees Upton put back to deal with the danger presented by Redhouse on the right with Tolbert pushing forwards to help Brame in attack.

   Bury are keeping a good shape trying to bring the ball forwards as a unit, the Gillingham attack is ready to spring into action whenever their defence wins the ball out looking to break quickly in number. Redhouse is central this time as the ball is rolled through to her plays the pass out to the left long for Baker-Carroll she goes after it though has Emma Tune coming towards her offering support is given the ball outside the area looks to come inside before drilling a shot wide past the far post form 20 yards out.

  Following a tackle, Bury's Tolbert has to come off having taken a knock, Kerry Knott comes onto the pitch for the home side. The free-kick won by Tolbert is on the left 20 yards out from goal, Gemma Carter is over the ball get's it up and over the wall coming across her goal Alabaster can see it bounce safely past the post. Gillingham concede a 2nd free kick this one halfway inside their half, the ball is played long up into the box, Locker has make a good run getting around and behind the Gillingham defence inside the area, it's Loosemore who rises to get her head on the ball 1st to clear.

   Osborne is called into action again to make another great save as Tune is played in through the middle the cross put into her by Redhouse on the right, Tune is able to strike it on the run a rising effort with plenty behind it Osborne dives to her right palms the ball over the bar. Makes another fine save following the corner initially cleared the shot comes back in from Tune again Osborne keeps it out. 

  GOAL! Bury had done well to keep the scoreline down to 1 goal as the match approaches the 40th minute mark, Gillingham have looked a threat though with every counter attack and it when Bury look to go forwards they are vulnerable. Again it's Loosemore who wins the ball back inside her own box looks to bring it out play the pass into Redhouse inside her own half she turns with the ball and is clear racing towards the opposition box coming inside as she reaches the box no one can catch her as she prods her shot low past the keeper and doubles Gillingham's lead 0-2.

  GOAL! Gillingham add a 3rd goal moments later is almost a carbon copy of the 1st goal as they win the ball back from Bury, this time though it's Jade Keogh on the right who plays the cross along the face of the box is behind Wills again coming through to Baker-Carroll she smashes the shot back across the keeper and in 0-3.

  GOAL! A 3-0 lead is soon 4 for Gillingham, players are up for Bury inside their opponents box following a free kick won wide on the left the ball is played long to the far post Gillingham head it clear, Baker-Carroll gets hold of the ball on the left drives forwards is looking to get into the Bury box the challenge comes in but Baker-Carroll gets her shot away going low for bottom corner Osborne gets down to her left the ball squeezes past her is over the line giving Baker-Carroll a 1st half hat-trick..

   GOAL! Baker-Carroll isn't done scoring yet as the 1st half is deep into injury time, Bury rattled form conceding 3 quick fire goals are undone as Redhouse springs the offside trap and drives into space on the right closing in on the box goes to shoot the ball hit across the box looks to be travelled out wide past the far post however, Baker-Carroll has covered a huge amount of ground to get into the area and gets a boot to it smash it over the diving Osborne into the back of the net.

                         Half-time Bury Town Ladies 0-5 Gillingham FC Ladies.

   Bury would have been thrilled had they gone into the break being just a single goal down and although needing some fine saves from Osborne in goal looked to be doing just that until the 40th minute mark then a purple patch from Gillingham saw them grab 4 more goals to give them a commanding 5-0 lead at half-time. Arriving late to the ground had taken a little time to find their rhythm.

   A 2nd change for Bury at half-time and concerns for Gemma Carter who remained in the dressing room as they bring on Emma Baldry. It's Bury to kick off the 2nd period, Baldry is up top in attack with Brame moving out to the right. Isn't long before the visitors are on the attack the ball with Keogh coming from a central position, takes the ball out into the left channel before turning back inside entering the area looks to shoot, Bambury slides in front of her manages to get something on the ball to take the sting out of the shot, allowing Osborne to gather beyond. 

  Baker-Carroll looks to make the run inside get onto the end of a ball put long through the middle is through on goal hits the shot, produces another fantastic save from Osborne in the Bury goal. 

  GOAL! Bury are caught out to concede a 6th goal early into the 2nd half. Madison North has gotten forwards for Gillingham on the left goes after a ball put into the corner isn't closed down allowed to turn plays the cross into the box coming into Baker-Carroll who turns off her marker and send the shot under the keeper to bag her 5th 0-6.

   Bury are struggling to get the ball out of their half with everyone back to defend Gillingham are using the full width of the pitch to stretch the play with both full backs North left and Georgia Reece on the right able to get forwards down the flanks, Reece putting in a cross close to the near post that Osborne needs to claim with Wills looking to run onto it. 15 minutes in and Gillingham make a change with Reece the playing given a rest and Fiona Constable coming on. Wills is the player who finds herself furthest forwards for Gillingham in their next attack running onto a pass played over the top central inside the box six yards out looks to knock it past the keeper, Osborne stays up makes the save to deny the goal.

  GOAL! The 7th goal for Gillingham isn't long in coming, possession is on the right before the play switches to the middle Wills and Baker-Carroll combine playing a one two with Baker-Carroll stealing in to hit the shot into the back of the net to make it a double hat-trick. 0-7.

   Second change for Gillingham with Hollie Musmeci coming on for Rachel Ahern at the back. Thing's are a little ragged for Bury out on the pitch aren't keeping their concentration their are concerns for injured player Carter still in the dressing room and whether this is a distraction I don't know. Gillingham are allowed to keep running at their defence, Wills this time central jinks left then right entering the box gets a shot away as players converge on her, lacks the power to trouble Osborne in goal. Hanratty has to come off for Bury the defender having hurt her knee, Shelby Beveridge comes onto the pitch which sees a re organisation of personnel.

  GOAL!  Gillingham have an 8th goal, possession is on the right once more with numbers forwards pressing Bury back Redhouse plays the ball into the area with Baker-Carroll coming across to meet it inside the box and turn it home to make it 0-8.

   More injury woe for Bury as goalkeeper Osborne after a challenge inside the box needing treatment can't continue comes off with Klimcke looking like she will take over in goal. Is called into action soon after thankfully a comfortable take as Redhouse sweeps the cross up into the middle with Wills looking to hit it on the volley from 20 yard out, on target but drops kindly for Klimcke. Redhouse with another drive down the right pulls the trigger sends her shot wide across the goal face.

 GOAL! Late into the game and Gillingham score another goal, Baker-Carroll no where near it this time. A great solo effort from Tune instead as she chases the ball into the left corner before taking on a wary Bury defence turning back inside and from an acute angle taking on the shot lifting the ball up and over the keeper to find the far corner of the net beyond 0-9.

  GOAL! Closing moments and Bury concede a 10th goal, Wills finally getting her name on the scoresheet as Bury try to bring the ball out from the back the ball is won back by Williams the pass cutting open the Bury defence with Wills the player racing clear to shoot and send the ball wide of the keeper 0-10.

   That's how it ends and Gillingham Ladies progress to the next round of the Ryman Women's Cup after a strong attacking performance to continue their rich vain of form. Could have scored more goals as they had the Bury goal under siege for most of the 2nd half. 

  Bury will be dejected conceding 10 goals, manager Jake Francis wasn't too dejected after the match this was always going to be a tough ask taking on higher league place opposition an opportunity for his players to test themselves with no pressure enjoy the experience were themselves 11-0 winners at the weekend over lower league opponents so now how it feels form both sides a few injuries tonight but in the end nothing to cause too much concern.

  Will no doubt see both sides in action again this season so for now thanks to both for the help with the teams tonight and Bury for the bacon sandwich. 

   

Match Report - Bury Town Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies - Ryman Cup

     A trip down to Suffolk this Thursday night to have a look at another two women's football teams for the 1st time in the 1st round of the Ryman Women's Cup, Bury Town Ladies v Tottenham Hotspur Ladies.

    A tough challenge on paper for the home side Bury Town Ladies, newly promoted from the Suffolk Women's League to the Eastern Region Women's Football League, Division One North, against Tottenham Hotspur Ladies playing three leagues above and long established in the FA Women's Premier League, Southern Division.

     A great opportunity for Bury Town Ladies to play a higher league placed opponent. Have started well in the ERWFL Division One North leading the way with a 100% record after 4 matches played. Play their home matches at Bury Town FC's, Ram Meadow in Bury St Edmunds. Under the floodlights the game had been well promoted by the club and it's partners, is one of the more proactive women's football clubs on social media and it was good to see it had paid off as a healthy crowd of 280+ had turned up to watch.

    Tottenham Hotspur Ladies lay in mid-table in the FAWPL Southern Division with 13 points after 7 played. Rarely get to see an club in this division play and have been keen to take a look at Tottenham Hotspur Ladies for a while.

    Bury Town Ladies starting XI - Charlotte Osbourne, Lisa Pratt, Emma Boreham (C), Stephanie Hanratty, Amelia Deuchars, Lyndsie Duemmel, Helen Cryer, Kate Shorter, Norma Locker, Laura Brown & Gemma Carter.
     subs - Shelley Cocksedge, Laura Bloomfield, Chelsea Panter & Hayley Turner.

    Tottenham Hotspur Ladies starting XI - Lauren Picton, Sophie McLean, Renee Williams, Alex Keown, Leanne Mabey, Shannon Moloney, Wendy Martin (C), Maya Vio, Avilla Bergin, Lucia Leon & Katie O'Leary.
     subs - Toni-Anne Wayne, Andra Marcoci & Kitty Lyons

   Under the lights another pleasant autumn night, clear skies the Ram Meadow pitch looked in good condition it was Bury to kick off the match wearing an all blue kick against Tottenham lined up in white shirts and socks with navy shorts. Pressing into the Tottenham half the visitors win the ball ball and launch it forwards early on for attacker Lucia Leon to chase, Bury goalkeeper Charlotte Osbourne is quickly off her line to take the ball.

     Tottenham look to have a good deal of pace in their side especially down the wings as they travel quickly with the ball, a cross is fired into the area from the left the target Leon on the edge of the box takes the ball down, Osbourne closes her down diving at her feet and claiming the ball.

    Tottenham win a corner, it's Shannon Moloney to take puts a good delivery into the box comes through to their captain Wendy Martin, her contact is heavy and she puts the ball over the bar. Bury aren't being given any time to settle in the ball, in the middle of the park Kate Shorter looks to play a forward pass through for striker Lyndsie Duemmel to run onto, Tottenham's centre backs close the gap there is no way through.

    In the middle Martin is covering alot of ground looking to get forwards and support the attackers, the ball at her feet looks to prod it forwards into the run of Leon, Bury's captain Emma Boreham makes a vital tackle stretching to take the ball away from her, the ball half cleared comes back to Martin 30 yards out her shot is over.

    Martin hits the post as she strikes across the ball having made a determined run forwards to get into the box. The play is all in the Bury half, Tottenham are spreading the play making runs in behind pushing the home side back.

   GOAL! Tottenham take the lead, with another attacking move numbers are up the pitch as Bury win the ball inside the box and launch up the pitch, the ball is won back and played back into towards Leon who has peeled away to the right of the penalty box in space, onside breaks into the box, Osbourne comes out to close her down, Leon gets the ball around her as she dives in front of her and places the ball into the empty net 0-1.

   Katie O'Leary has a strike from outside the box for Tottenham the shot taking a deflection goes out for a corner, taken short the cross is played into the area, Osbourne is well positioned to take the ball. Tottenham are racking up the corners, Osbourne is called into action as Moloney plays one set piece into the crowded six yard box the keeper with a good fist to punch clear under challenge.

    GOAL! A surging run down the left from Tottenham's Avilla Bergin she leaves her marker behind, puts in an early cross evading Osbourne at the near post arrives in the centre where Katie O'Leary having made a great run in support is there to turn the ball into the net to double the visitors lead, 0-2.

     O'Leary puts a shot in from outside the box as Tottenham build another attack, Osbourne makes a good diving save, the flag is raised for an offside however. Pushed back by Tottenham, Bury are finding it difficult to get the ball into there out attackers, Duemmell seeing very little of the ball.

    GOAL! Tottenham extend their lead with another flowing attack once again down the left with Bergin her quick turn of pace leaving the Bury back line exposed the ball comes into the area nothing Osbourne can do as it goes past her to find O'Leary free again to place the ball into the net 0-3.

   Osbourne makes a fantastic save as Tottenham's O'Leary and Leanne Mabey link up will down the right, the cross is put in the defensive header doesn't get the distance O'Leary is onto it outside the box, shoots looking for the far post, Osbourne with the diving save punches the ball well clear of her area.

                         Half-time Bury Town Ladies 0-7 Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

    A clinical and professional display from Tottenham in the 1st half have played some very good free flowing attacking football, used the pitch well have pace to burn. Bury have found it tough been pushed back, which has made it hard to get any attacking moves going.

   Tottenham kick off the 2nd half and are on the attack straight away, Martin making a forwards move manages to stay onside as the ball is put through to her inside the box, she pulls the trigger but sends her effort wide of the post.

    GOAL! It's not long before the visitors extend their lead, the ball played through into the box Bury's Stephanie Hanratty coming across from the right back position on the cover makes a good tackle to deny Leon a shot inside the box, the ball though isn't cleared, it's Martin who hugging the back line evades the offside trap chases the ball to the byline inside the area and puts it across the goal line to the far post where O'Leary is arriving for a simple tap in to complete her hat-tick 0-4.

   Time on the ball is at a premium for Bury the player most likely to make anything happen is Kate Shorter in the middle can hold the ball up and looks to turn gets a forward pass into Duemmel who see's Gemma Carter making a run out on the right, can't find her a Tottenham's Sophie McClean reads the threat and makes the interception looks to drive forwards with the ball.

    Tottenham make a change bringing on Andra Marcoci for Avilla Bergin. Bury make a changes too bringing on Hayley Turner and Chelsea Panter for Amelia Deuchars and Lyndsie Duemmel.

   Marcoci is into the action straight away winning the ball off the Bury defence and shooting early from the edge of the box, Osbourne sees it all the way makes the save.

   Martin is played though again looks to be clear on goal, Hanratty is with her though pushes her wide and concedes the corner. Moloney plays the ball in then as the ball is cleared it comes back out to her with the time to line up a shot wide left she looks for the near side top corner, blasts the ball against the post and out for a goal kick.

  Tottenham make another change Leon the player coming off to be replaced by Kitty Lyons.

  Osbourne makes a save with her legs as Tottenham look to put O'Leary through on goal again. Mabey out on the right pushes forwards with the ball looks to come inside and get a shot away pulls the strike across the goal and wide.

     GOAL! Bury are tiring have worked very hard to keep the score line down, but it's the fresh legs of Marcoci that look to do the damage this time receiving the ball just inside the area, she dribbles across the box evading two tackles, see's Martin coming in making another good attacking run as she has done all game lays it into her path and Martin scores 0-5.

   Boreham almost puts the ball into the back of her own net as Tottenham put a dangerous ball in from the left, into the six yard box, Boreham's header is vital with a player coming in behind her, deflects the ball just past the post for a corner.

   Bury with a set piece after Tottenham concede a sloppy corner, the ball is played into the crowded near post area the header looping up and across the goal, no one has gambled at the far post as the ball lands and is cleared.

    Martin is taken down centrally 25 yards from goal, it's Moloney to take, Osbourne is almost caught out with the shot, good reflexes manages to save with her leg put the ball out for a corner.

    GOAL! Tottenham add a 6th goal, Martin is played in as she makes the run into the area her shot is saved at point blank range by Osbourne, the deflected ball though comes to O'Leary to score her 4th of the night 0-6.

   Kate Shorter has the ball 40 yards from goal has time at last has a go for goal, pulls her effort wide.

    GOAL! Late into the game now and Tottenham add a 7th goal. It's Marcoci who scores as she makes a strong run against a tired defence on the right runs into the box and shoots from an acute angle pace on the ball Osbourne can't get down to make the save 0-7.

    The final whistle blows and Tottenham win the tie 0-7 and progress to the next round of the Ryman Cup. Was a good performance from the visiting team, who stroked the ball about well have pace and good movement, ran Bury ragged at times, the football flowing in attack.

   Bury won't like losing the game by 7 but knew they were up against it, was a great opportunity to face a premier league team, sure they will have learnt a lot from the experience can use it to their advantage should be buoyed by the fantastic support they received and I hope that several of those who came to watch tonight will come again, it's these sorts of crowds that I want to see, well done Bury.

    This match has left me hungry to see both teams in action again. I appreciate the help both clubs gave me with the squad details tonight, thank you.