Another East Anglian derby match within the space of 7 days in the South East Combination League once again watching Ipswich Town LFC as they played host to county neighbours Cambridge WFC at Newmarket Town FC. Last week Ipswich were the victims of a dominant display from Norfolk rivals Norwich City LFC losing 4-0. At the weekend they had played out a 3-3 with then bottom side Luton Town LFC.
Todays opponents Cambridge WFC came into the match on the back a 4-0 home win against Ebbsfleet United LFC ending a run of 3 successive league defeats. Have visited Newmarket Town FC before to watch Ipswich played before Christmas when then put in a battling display against title chasing C&K Basildon going 2-0 up before being pegged back in the closing minutes to 2-2. That scoreline had been the same when they had visited Cambridge earlier in the season. With the season drawing to a close both teams would be looking to finish on a high.
Ipswich in their blue and white kit got the game under way their opponents Cambridge lining up in red. The home side jigging their personal a little with striker Nadine Basson missing through injury full back Roxanne Small had been pushed higher up the pitch on the left with Amy Cook providing the width on the right and Amy Howlett with a free role to support striker Michelle Allum up top. Cambridge in comparison looked to start with a 5 at the back with wing backs Emma Jenkins and Chloe Bennett looking to push on.
The early pressure though was all from the home team as they looked to move the ball with pace and use the whole width to move Cambridge out of position. Amy Cook in particular finding plenty of grass to run into on the right. Running to the by line she crosses the ball however finding the gloves of Cambridge goalkeeper Verity Crook. With Amy Howlett was finding plenty of space between Cambridge's midfield and defence keeping their wing backs pinned back play was largely in their opponents half.
When Cambridge did win possession they looked to break with strikers Laura Baker and Sophie Thompson looking for the through ball, one found it's way out to Baker sprinting into the left channel. Crosses the ball seeing midfielder Faith Hewitt making a good run, Ipswich's defence intercepts but the clearance has no weight Hewitt runs onto the ball the effort on goal is comfortably saved by Ipswich keeper Leanne Smith.
Ipswich captain Danielle Bitten getting on the ball has available options both on the left and right sends a pass out to the right wing for Amy Cook to run onto the winger drives to the by line launches a cross high heading to the far post it bounces in the six yard box but spins behind for a goal kick as both the on rushing Roxanne Small and Amy Howlett can't reach it.
With their formation the Cambridge full backs didn't know whether to stick or bust as going forwards left them open to counter attack Ipswich's attacking players staying back ready to counter if possession was given away. A Cambridge move breaking down the ball won back was fed out to Roxanne Small on the left, Amy Howlett unmarked made a good supporting run collected the ball crossed early the effort dangerous as it headed towards goal had Crook scrambling to save however the ball bounced wide of the post.
Cambridge's best attacking chances came from the set pieces delivered in by defender Jordan Holland one effort 40 yards out central causing chaos in the Ipswich penalty box with shouts for handball waved away by the referee as the home side battled to get the clearance away.
Despite Ipswich pinning Cambridge back for large sections of the half clear chances on goal had been few late in the half Amy Cook pulling out wide right again as Ipswich broke with pace ran clear of her marker and delivered a cross in fiercely this time Roxanne Small made a run to the near post got in front of her marker and met the ball with a deft flick sending it into the back of the net and giving the home team the lead. Danielle Bitten was to have one last run from midfield to have a strike her effort lacking power was gathered by Crook as the referee blew for the break.
Half time Ipswich lead 1-0
A deserved lead on the balance of the 1st half but with only one goal in it Cambridge would need a better 2nd half performance if they hoped to get anything from the game. Started the brighter looking to press the ball higher up the pitch keep Ipswich in their own half with their attacking players, Small, Howlett and Cook prepared to stay high up the pitch a break was always the danger. A good one two from Danielle Bitten to Howlett saw the Ipswich captain put in a dangerous cross this time Crook is out quickly to catch the ball as Amy Cook tries to get onto it.
Striker Michelle Allum has a shot from the right hand corner of the penalty box a good effort Crook gets a glove to it to send it over the bar for a corner. At the other end Cambridge's Laura Bright wins the ball on the edge of the penalty box lays the ball out to the right for the running Faith Hewitt who sends in a curling effort that rattles the cross bar.
Jordan Holland delivers in another dangerous free kick this time from the right had side of the pitch Ipswich keeper Leanne Smith parries the fierce drive down as Cambridge players rush in the ball is bundled into the next however the goal is ruled out as the linesman indicates there was a push.
The bar is struck again soon after from another Jordan Holland free kick central from the half way line as the ball bounces in the box beating everyone causes panic but bounces up onto the cross bar and is cleared. Laura Bright pulls free off her marker outside the Ipswich penalty box gets an effort away with the outside of her boot looping towards goal the high ball is snatched out of the air by Leanne Smith.
Late in the half with all 3 substitutions made Cambridge are pressing hard to try and find an equaliser however as they had for much of the game Ipswich's attackers kept their opponents wing backs from breaking to support their attackers the final ball can't be found and they hold on to seal a 1-0 victory and take the 3pts. A much better perfomance from last Wednesday sees them on 20pts in 7th place in the South East Combination table 5pts clear of Cambridge both with just one league match left in the campaign. Cambridge away to Luton Town LFC on 13th April and Ipswich away to Enfield Town LFC this coming Sunday 6th April.
A fan of the sport doing my small part to help promote the women's game
Showing posts with label South East Combination. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South East Combination. Show all posts
Wednesday, 2 April 2014
Thursday, 27 March 2014
Match Report - Norwich City LFC v Ipswich Town LFC South East Combination
Last night I attended my 1st women's East Anglian derby match between Norwich City LFC and Ipswich Town LFC in the South East Combination league. A match that had been postponed during the awful run of wet weather that affected the whole of the footballing calendar at the start of 2014. A match I was very much looking forwards too even if I had been made to wait. At Plantation Park a 7:45 kick-off it was getting decidely chilly by the time I arrived at the ground.
Norwich City LFC as I'd highlighted in an earlier post are now through postponements playing catch up with the teams around them in terms of fixtures this meant that with a good number of games in hand on the leading pair of C&K Basildon and QPR LFC that they were still in the hunt for the title. Had beaten Enfield Town LFC away at the weekend 4-1 going into the match. Ipswich Town LFC laying in the bottom half of the South East Combination table had hosted the then leaders QPR LFC and had fought back from going 2-0 down to steal a point to make it 2-2, so both teams had a confidence boosting result going into the match.
It was Norwich to kick-off in their yellow and green kit against Ipswich kitted out in white shirts and socks with black shorts. A local derby both teams would be up for the match, the opening minutes were frantic the ball spending little time on the deck. Norwich started the brighter looking to attack early and with pace with all their attacking players running at Ipswich's defense giving the visitors little time to settle. Just ten minutes had passed when the ball was given away through a loose clearance, Norwich's Paige Shorten latching onto the ball from the left and running into the box lifted it over the advancing keeper and into the net 1-0.
Ipswich had little time to settle the game down and try to build a counter attack as Norwich were to quickly double their lead. The ball swung into the penalty box early no Ipswich defender could get her head to it, no10 Natasha Snelling brings it down and shoots quickly sending the ball under the diving keeper to make it 2-0. Ipswich were reeling battling hard to win the ball back any attack was started deep inside their own half there 1st chance coming from one such tussle as full back Roxanne Small won the ball and played it through to wide player Amy Cook on the left. Winning a throw high up the pitch Cook then ran with the ball into the box but was closed down by the keeper and the ball went behind for a corner.
A Norwich free kick from 35 yards out was dragged wide by taker Paige Shorten at one end, at the other Amy Cook beats the offside trap but her attempt is closed down. Norwich were to beat the offside trap too Natasha Snelling running into the left channel she sent in a high cross towards the far post to her team mate Chelsea Garratt but she can only nudge the ball wide of the goal. The pressure was all coming from the home side now, Natasha Snelling with a 20 yards strike punched wide for a corner the resulting delivery cleared off the line the rebound blazed over the bar.
Half time Norwich lead 2-0
Ipswich needed to close the ball down higher up the pitch and that was their aim at the start of the 2nd half captain Danielle Bitten in midfield trying her best to influence the play and get her team back into the match. Norwich though were working hard too often doubling up on an opponent then laying the ball off and looking to turn and break quickly with willing runners in midfield Natasha Snelling was through on goal having beaten the keeper could only find the post as Ipswich cleared the danger.
Ipswich were weathering a storm when it became a mountain to climb as they had a player sent off for a tackle from behind a 2nd yellow and the visitors were down to 10. Norwich midfeilder Ellie Smith had made several good forward runs now with a player advantage Norwich were really in control of the game, the referee awarded a penalty I think for a push, no14 Rosi Webb took the spot kick sending it high to the keepers left to make it 3-0.
Ipswich chances were few and far between there best outlets were their wide players, and both Danielle Bitten and striker Nadine Basson who'd dropped to a deeper role after the sending off were looking for that pass. When ever Amy Cook had the ball at her feet she looked to drive forwards options though were limited the ball often cleared for a corner which Norwich were able to defend.
Eventually Ellie Smith's attacking runs brought her the reward of a goal winning the ball out on the left the midfielder ran in on goal wasn't chased down and slotted the ball into the back of the net to double the 1st half scoreline 4-0. Natasha Snelling and captain Kate Parsons had efforts saved late on for the home side. The score however was to finish 4-0 and round off what was a dominant display from Norwich, ruthless at times. Ipswich in turn will be bitterly disappointed never really got going on the night.
This result moves Norwich up into 3rd place in the South East Combination table behind leaders C&K Basildon and 2nd placed QPR LFC. 12pts back on the leaders they have some 4 games in hand and 3 on QPR LFC who they still have to play at home. Still with a chance I think they will need maximum points from their remaining matches to hunt the title down either way the season end will be thrilling to watch.
Norwich City LFC as I'd highlighted in an earlier post are now through postponements playing catch up with the teams around them in terms of fixtures this meant that with a good number of games in hand on the leading pair of C&K Basildon and QPR LFC that they were still in the hunt for the title. Had beaten Enfield Town LFC away at the weekend 4-1 going into the match. Ipswich Town LFC laying in the bottom half of the South East Combination table had hosted the then leaders QPR LFC and had fought back from going 2-0 down to steal a point to make it 2-2, so both teams had a confidence boosting result going into the match.
It was Norwich to kick-off in their yellow and green kit against Ipswich kitted out in white shirts and socks with black shorts. A local derby both teams would be up for the match, the opening minutes were frantic the ball spending little time on the deck. Norwich started the brighter looking to attack early and with pace with all their attacking players running at Ipswich's defense giving the visitors little time to settle. Just ten minutes had passed when the ball was given away through a loose clearance, Norwich's Paige Shorten latching onto the ball from the left and running into the box lifted it over the advancing keeper and into the net 1-0.
Ipswich had little time to settle the game down and try to build a counter attack as Norwich were to quickly double their lead. The ball swung into the penalty box early no Ipswich defender could get her head to it, no10 Natasha Snelling brings it down and shoots quickly sending the ball under the diving keeper to make it 2-0. Ipswich were reeling battling hard to win the ball back any attack was started deep inside their own half there 1st chance coming from one such tussle as full back Roxanne Small won the ball and played it through to wide player Amy Cook on the left. Winning a throw high up the pitch Cook then ran with the ball into the box but was closed down by the keeper and the ball went behind for a corner.
A Norwich free kick from 35 yards out was dragged wide by taker Paige Shorten at one end, at the other Amy Cook beats the offside trap but her attempt is closed down. Norwich were to beat the offside trap too Natasha Snelling running into the left channel she sent in a high cross towards the far post to her team mate Chelsea Garratt but she can only nudge the ball wide of the goal. The pressure was all coming from the home side now, Natasha Snelling with a 20 yards strike punched wide for a corner the resulting delivery cleared off the line the rebound blazed over the bar.
Half time Norwich lead 2-0
Ipswich needed to close the ball down higher up the pitch and that was their aim at the start of the 2nd half captain Danielle Bitten in midfield trying her best to influence the play and get her team back into the match. Norwich though were working hard too often doubling up on an opponent then laying the ball off and looking to turn and break quickly with willing runners in midfield Natasha Snelling was through on goal having beaten the keeper could only find the post as Ipswich cleared the danger.
Ipswich were weathering a storm when it became a mountain to climb as they had a player sent off for a tackle from behind a 2nd yellow and the visitors were down to 10. Norwich midfeilder Ellie Smith had made several good forward runs now with a player advantage Norwich were really in control of the game, the referee awarded a penalty I think for a push, no14 Rosi Webb took the spot kick sending it high to the keepers left to make it 3-0.
Ipswich chances were few and far between there best outlets were their wide players, and both Danielle Bitten and striker Nadine Basson who'd dropped to a deeper role after the sending off were looking for that pass. When ever Amy Cook had the ball at her feet she looked to drive forwards options though were limited the ball often cleared for a corner which Norwich were able to defend.
Eventually Ellie Smith's attacking runs brought her the reward of a goal winning the ball out on the left the midfielder ran in on goal wasn't chased down and slotted the ball into the back of the net to double the 1st half scoreline 4-0. Natasha Snelling and captain Kate Parsons had efforts saved late on for the home side. The score however was to finish 4-0 and round off what was a dominant display from Norwich, ruthless at times. Ipswich in turn will be bitterly disappointed never really got going on the night.
| South East Combination | |||||||||
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | F | A | GD | PTS |
| 1 | C&K Basildon LFC | 18 | 13 | 3 | 2 | 52 | 18 | 34 | 42 |
| 2 | QPR LFC | 17 | 12 | 4 | 1 | 52 | 11 | 41 | 40 |
| 3 | Norwich City LFC | 14 | 10 | 0 | 4 | 41 | 24 | 17 | 30 |
This result moves Norwich up into 3rd place in the South East Combination table behind leaders C&K Basildon and 2nd placed QPR LFC. 12pts back on the leaders they have some 4 games in hand and 3 on QPR LFC who they still have to play at home. Still with a chance I think they will need maximum points from their remaining matches to hunt the title down either way the season end will be thrilling to watch.
Sunday, 23 March 2014
Match Report Cambridge WFC v Denham United LFC SE Combination
Hailstones are what greeted me as I arrived at the Unwin Sports Ground for todays football match between Cambridge WFC and Denham United LFC in the South East Combination league. Thankfully they weren't to last and between the black clouds the sun tried to make an appearance. After two successive 1 nil defeats in the league against teams at the top of the table Cambridge were looking for a much needed positive result against their visitors. Denham United LFC themselves were looking to continue a good run of recent results that had seen them progress up the league.
Also at the ground were a few german speaking visitors who turned out to be the German Canaries as they unveiled their banner, undeterred by the lack of any canaries they were nevertheless in good voice and supporting the home team. Having seen Cambridge a few times it was clear they were without a few regulars and fielding a young squad striker Nuala Wayne needing a fitness test before match was able to lead the line as both teams took to the field Cambridge in their sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts, and Denham kitted out in white shirts and navy shorts and socks with red and white banding.
The opening exchanges were cagey as both sides playing 4 4 2 looked to suss each other out. Denham with the 1st effort at goal from a free kick delivered high into the box their captain and central defender Joanne Torr sending the ball wide. Soon after the visitors with a corner delivered in dangerously Cambridge keeper Liz Pamplin punches the ball over to clear. Denham were pushing Cambridge back as the home side struggled to get the ball up to their attackers.
Cambridge though found an out ball in their wide players with their full backs providing good support. A ball delivered in from the left resulted in Cambridge's Bethan Jones being fouled just outside the box as she tried to jump for the ball. Central defender Jordan Holland took the free kick her powerful shot that rattling the crossbar.
Denham were to have a shot of their own come down off the crossbar minutes later from a free kick central to the goal 40 yards out which was delivered into the area and flicked onto the bar. Action was end to end with Cambridge getting joy down the flanks full back Emma Jenkins had an effort blocked the ball cannoning out to Bethan Jones who tried to curl it back in from the edge of the D, Denham keeper Lizzy Rose well placed to catch the shot.
Denham were looking a threat on the break both their strikers looking to beat the offside trap and peeling off her marker Denham's no10 Rebecca Scott burst into the box on the right and unleashed a shot. Pamplin got a hand to it but the ball fell loose in front of her and was met by midfielder Lauren Cox who gave Pamplin no chance to recover as she smashed it home from close range to make it 1-0.
Cambridge looked a threat from their set pieces Jordan Holland was producing so good delieveries had an effort out on the left delivered hard to the near post Rose spilled her attempted catch the ball rolling out to Nuala Wayne who drilled her effort, it was straight at the diving Rose however who was able to divert the ball for a corner. Late in the half Cambridge's captain Hannah Goodchild is fouled the referee plays advantage as the ball rolls to Jones the winger with a snap shot put it wide.
Half time Cambridge WFC 0-1 Denham United LFC
The wind had picked up at the start of the 2nd half and with it the black clouds were rolling in. Cambridge came out looking to press Denham higher up the pitch and were having more joy in their opponents half winning the ball back and trying to get it into the box for Wayne to attack. Denham looking to counter attack it was a real battle between Scott and Cambridge central defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt at times (pictured below).
A few fouls were being given away by both teams one taken from the right by Denham met the head of Torr the effort sent wide of the post. Cambridge broke from the goal kick down the left the ball crossed in Wayne falling couldn't bring it under control allowing the Denham defence to clear. With Cambridge pressing forwards looking to equalise Denham were finding space to exploit one run out on the left bringing them a free kick 30 yards from goal the ball was delivered in fiercely bounced beating everyone in the middle coming out to Torr out on the right of the six yard box. Pamplin with no chance as she drilled her shot under her as she dove into the back of the net to double the visitors lead 2-0.
Having absorbed a good period of pressure from Cambridge the visitors with a two goal cushion were looking the more dangerous. Torr herself with a run out from the back line with the ball took a shot her effort blocked by a Cambridge body. Another free kick from Denham is net by Cox whose attempt at goal his smartly saved by Pamplin. At the other end Cambridge's attackers were trying their best to break through a solid Denham defensive line but the final ball just wouldn't come. Torr had the last effort of the match a long range drive that went wide of the post as the visitors claimed all 3pts and move into 4th place in the league table. Cambridge remain 9th.
In todays other matches in the South East Comination league, leaders QPR were held to a 2-2 all draw at Ipswich despite taking a 2 goal lead. Leaving C&K Basildon to reclaim top spot after a 5-0 home victory against Ebbsfleet. Norwich ran out 4-1 winners away to Enfield and in the clash of the bottom two Brentwood moved off the bottom as they beat visitors Luton 3-2.
Also at the ground were a few german speaking visitors who turned out to be the German Canaries as they unveiled their banner, undeterred by the lack of any canaries they were nevertheless in good voice and supporting the home team. Having seen Cambridge a few times it was clear they were without a few regulars and fielding a young squad striker Nuala Wayne needing a fitness test before match was able to lead the line as both teams took to the field Cambridge in their sky blue shirts and socks with navy shorts, and Denham kitted out in white shirts and navy shorts and socks with red and white banding.
The opening exchanges were cagey as both sides playing 4 4 2 looked to suss each other out. Denham with the 1st effort at goal from a free kick delivered high into the box their captain and central defender Joanne Torr sending the ball wide. Soon after the visitors with a corner delivered in dangerously Cambridge keeper Liz Pamplin punches the ball over to clear. Denham were pushing Cambridge back as the home side struggled to get the ball up to their attackers.
Cambridge though found an out ball in their wide players with their full backs providing good support. A ball delivered in from the left resulted in Cambridge's Bethan Jones being fouled just outside the box as she tried to jump for the ball. Central defender Jordan Holland took the free kick her powerful shot that rattling the crossbar.
Denham were to have a shot of their own come down off the crossbar minutes later from a free kick central to the goal 40 yards out which was delivered into the area and flicked onto the bar. Action was end to end with Cambridge getting joy down the flanks full back Emma Jenkins had an effort blocked the ball cannoning out to Bethan Jones who tried to curl it back in from the edge of the D, Denham keeper Lizzy Rose well placed to catch the shot.
Denham were looking a threat on the break both their strikers looking to beat the offside trap and peeling off her marker Denham's no10 Rebecca Scott burst into the box on the right and unleashed a shot. Pamplin got a hand to it but the ball fell loose in front of her and was met by midfielder Lauren Cox who gave Pamplin no chance to recover as she smashed it home from close range to make it 1-0.
Cambridge looked a threat from their set pieces Jordan Holland was producing so good delieveries had an effort out on the left delivered hard to the near post Rose spilled her attempted catch the ball rolling out to Nuala Wayne who drilled her effort, it was straight at the diving Rose however who was able to divert the ball for a corner. Late in the half Cambridge's captain Hannah Goodchild is fouled the referee plays advantage as the ball rolls to Jones the winger with a snap shot put it wide.
Half time Cambridge WFC 0-1 Denham United LFC
The wind had picked up at the start of the 2nd half and with it the black clouds were rolling in. Cambridge came out looking to press Denham higher up the pitch and were having more joy in their opponents half winning the ball back and trying to get it into the box for Wayne to attack. Denham looking to counter attack it was a real battle between Scott and Cambridge central defender Kayleigh-Anne Burt at times (pictured below).
A few fouls were being given away by both teams one taken from the right by Denham met the head of Torr the effort sent wide of the post. Cambridge broke from the goal kick down the left the ball crossed in Wayne falling couldn't bring it under control allowing the Denham defence to clear. With Cambridge pressing forwards looking to equalise Denham were finding space to exploit one run out on the left bringing them a free kick 30 yards from goal the ball was delivered in fiercely bounced beating everyone in the middle coming out to Torr out on the right of the six yard box. Pamplin with no chance as she drilled her shot under her as she dove into the back of the net to double the visitors lead 2-0.
Having absorbed a good period of pressure from Cambridge the visitors with a two goal cushion were looking the more dangerous. Torr herself with a run out from the back line with the ball took a shot her effort blocked by a Cambridge body. Another free kick from Denham is net by Cox whose attempt at goal his smartly saved by Pamplin. At the other end Cambridge's attackers were trying their best to break through a solid Denham defensive line but the final ball just wouldn't come. Torr had the last effort of the match a long range drive that went wide of the post as the visitors claimed all 3pts and move into 4th place in the league table. Cambridge remain 9th.
In todays other matches in the South East Comination league, leaders QPR were held to a 2-2 all draw at Ipswich despite taking a 2 goal lead. Leaving C&K Basildon to reclaim top spot after a 5-0 home victory against Ebbsfleet. Norwich ran out 4-1 winners away to Enfield and in the clash of the bottom two Brentwood moved off the bottom as they beat visitors Luton 3-2.
Sunday, 2 March 2014
Match Report Cambridge WFC v MK Dons LFC SE Combination
The terrible wet weather that had marked the start of 2014 has played havoc with the women's football calender up and down the country the South East Combination league being no exception with just 4 games managed between the 11 teams before this weekends fixture. Today's venue was Ely City FC's Unwin Sports Ground where Cambridge WFC play their home games hadn't played a home match since November last year and there last SE Combination fixture was back on the 15th December. Their opponents today MK Dons LFC who had faired little better had played one SE Combination fixture in 2014 against QPR LFC where they lost 2-0.
Having seen that fixture knew MK Dons LFC would prove a tough opponent for Cambridge WFC. Over cast and bitterly cold the wind had picked up steadily into the afternoon and would cause both teams some problems as MK Dons in their all red kit got the game underway, Cambridge in their sky blue shirts and socks and navy shorts.
It was MK Dons with the 1st attacking play good build up down the right lead to Kelly Bingham putting in a cross to the far post but the resulting shot was drilled into the side netting. Both teams were working out the wind conditions their were few chances in the opening exchanges Cambridge making in road on the right but unable to find a final ball, MK Dons likewise looking to break in numbers but unable to find the needed through ball.
A surging run from Cambridge captain Hannah Goodchild saw her continue her run as she laid the ball off to striker Laura Baker the attempted pass through was intercepted by the MK Dons defence. Cambridge had another chance soon after Sophie Thompson breaking free of her marker then beating the MK Dons keeper Clare Farron as she raced out of her box did enough to force the striker wide of goal her shot easily dealt with by the covering defender. MK Dons were allowing both Cambridge full backs time and space up the pitch during this spell the home side was on top.
However it was to be MK Dons who were to take the lead after soaking up Cambridge's building pressure the visitors had an opportunity to break their striker Emily Mann out muscling her marker to run through on goal. Cambridge's keeper Verity Crook charged out but was beaten as Mann lobbed the ball from just inside the box over her and into the empty net. 1-0 to MK Dons.
MK Dons were on top for a spell another Kelly Bingham cross snatched out of the air by Verity Crook as Emily Mann closed in. Cambridge struggled to get attacks going couldn't get the ball up the pitch quick enough allowing MK Dons to get players back in support. Strikers Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker were working hard trying to hold the ball up the latter battling hard against two markers to make room for a cross which Sophie Thompson tried to get onto the contact was light and keeper Farron was able to gather.
Half Time Cambridge WFC 0-1 MK Dons LFC
Cambridge made a change at half time and a slight shift in personel the effects were almost immediate as Sophie Thompson was through on goal from a long ball the shot lacking any strength. The home side were getting more joy pressing MK Dons higher up the pitch the midfielders particulary Laura Bright looking to better support the strikers. Sophie Thompson was in again minutes later two defenders closing her down and winning the ball.
For all there pressing of MK Dons at one end the visitors were always a danger on the break Kelly Bingham won the ball played the ball forwards Emily Mann striking the side netting. Soon after Mann had a run across the face of goal tried an effort with the outside of her boot Verity Crook however was well positioned to dive to her left and make the save.
Subs Bethan Jones and Liz Pamplin came on as the 2nd half wore on it was the latter with a great chance to score a half volley from the edge of the D the effort spun away from goal, Pamplin was body checked however and the referee awarded a free kick in a very dangerous position. Laura Baker took the kick the effort on target needed the outstretched glove of Clare Farron to push it over the bar.
MK Dons brought on Eden Washington and Leah Cudone to see out the game. The former with her pace kept Cambridge pinned back as they looked to attack. A late free kick wide on the left was Cambridge's last chance to find an equaliser the ball was caught by Clare Farron and the final whistle blew, MK Dons win 1 nil take the 3 points, Cambridge might feel they had done enough to earn a point.
It was a full programme in the South East Combination today with more games taking place than in the whole of the previous two months with a top of the table clash between QPR LFC and current leaders C&K Basildon which ended in a 1-1 draw. Norwich City LFC were beaten at home by Enfield Town LFC 1-0 and there were away wins for both Denham United LFC winning 3-0 at Luton Town LFC and Ipswich Town LFC who claimed a 2-0 victory at Ebbsfleet United LFC.
Having seen that fixture knew MK Dons LFC would prove a tough opponent for Cambridge WFC. Over cast and bitterly cold the wind had picked up steadily into the afternoon and would cause both teams some problems as MK Dons in their all red kit got the game underway, Cambridge in their sky blue shirts and socks and navy shorts.
It was MK Dons with the 1st attacking play good build up down the right lead to Kelly Bingham putting in a cross to the far post but the resulting shot was drilled into the side netting. Both teams were working out the wind conditions their were few chances in the opening exchanges Cambridge making in road on the right but unable to find a final ball, MK Dons likewise looking to break in numbers but unable to find the needed through ball.
A surging run from Cambridge captain Hannah Goodchild saw her continue her run as she laid the ball off to striker Laura Baker the attempted pass through was intercepted by the MK Dons defence. Cambridge had another chance soon after Sophie Thompson breaking free of her marker then beating the MK Dons keeper Clare Farron as she raced out of her box did enough to force the striker wide of goal her shot easily dealt with by the covering defender. MK Dons were allowing both Cambridge full backs time and space up the pitch during this spell the home side was on top.
However it was to be MK Dons who were to take the lead after soaking up Cambridge's building pressure the visitors had an opportunity to break their striker Emily Mann out muscling her marker to run through on goal. Cambridge's keeper Verity Crook charged out but was beaten as Mann lobbed the ball from just inside the box over her and into the empty net. 1-0 to MK Dons.
MK Dons were on top for a spell another Kelly Bingham cross snatched out of the air by Verity Crook as Emily Mann closed in. Cambridge struggled to get attacks going couldn't get the ball up the pitch quick enough allowing MK Dons to get players back in support. Strikers Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker were working hard trying to hold the ball up the latter battling hard against two markers to make room for a cross which Sophie Thompson tried to get onto the contact was light and keeper Farron was able to gather.
Half Time Cambridge WFC 0-1 MK Dons LFC
Cambridge made a change at half time and a slight shift in personel the effects were almost immediate as Sophie Thompson was through on goal from a long ball the shot lacking any strength. The home side were getting more joy pressing MK Dons higher up the pitch the midfielders particulary Laura Bright looking to better support the strikers. Sophie Thompson was in again minutes later two defenders closing her down and winning the ball.
For all there pressing of MK Dons at one end the visitors were always a danger on the break Kelly Bingham won the ball played the ball forwards Emily Mann striking the side netting. Soon after Mann had a run across the face of goal tried an effort with the outside of her boot Verity Crook however was well positioned to dive to her left and make the save.
Subs Bethan Jones and Liz Pamplin came on as the 2nd half wore on it was the latter with a great chance to score a half volley from the edge of the D the effort spun away from goal, Pamplin was body checked however and the referee awarded a free kick in a very dangerous position. Laura Baker took the kick the effort on target needed the outstretched glove of Clare Farron to push it over the bar.
MK Dons brought on Eden Washington and Leah Cudone to see out the game. The former with her pace kept Cambridge pinned back as they looked to attack. A late free kick wide on the left was Cambridge's last chance to find an equaliser the ball was caught by Clare Farron and the final whistle blew, MK Dons win 1 nil take the 3 points, Cambridge might feel they had done enough to earn a point.
It was a full programme in the South East Combination today with more games taking place than in the whole of the previous two months with a top of the table clash between QPR LFC and current leaders C&K Basildon which ended in a 1-1 draw. Norwich City LFC were beaten at home by Enfield Town LFC 1-0 and there were away wins for both Denham United LFC winning 3-0 at Luton Town LFC and Ipswich Town LFC who claimed a 2-0 victory at Ebbsfleet United LFC.
Thursday, 16 January 2014
Sponsoring Bethan Jones
Recently I announced through my twitter feed that my new blog Supporting Women's Football would be sponsoring Cambridge WFC player Bethan Jones. Approached by the club it was an easy decision to make had coming towards the end of the WSL campaign started attending other women's football matches in the South East region had been to see Cambridge WFC a few times was impressed by the standard of football at this level of the game.
I had sponsored a player at Lincoln Ladies during their final WSL season and from a personal stand point find it a positive and rewarding way of expressing my support. Many clubs up and down the country whatever their size or league offer sponsorship packages for individual players, they are an important way for clubs to raise much needed funds to help with the day to day running of the club and look after it's players and staff, and also gives a boost to the player involved.
For the sponsor be it a business or individual it has several benefits too. For the individual fan or maybe even group/syndicate of fans it is rewarding to sponsor a player in terms of expressing support and adds further interest to watching the team. For a business it represents a means of added exposure and advertising within the individual clubs sponsorship package, be it through ground, program or website advertising, to what is going to be increasingly more common and a means for the women's game to lead the way somewhat through social media channels such as Twitter or Facebook.
Cambridge WFC are blessed to have a number of partners to help with promoting the club and it was through these partners I was approached. They have a supporters club run by amberarmy.net @amberarmynet and run a twitter account dedicated to supporting the club @CWFCPressOffice and it is through them I will pick up how the sponsorship deal took place, "The Sponsorship of Bethan happened after we noticed an appeal from her family for a sponsor and after a bit of research we passed the task of gaining a sponsor to club partner and agent Chrome Sport." The A*A spokeswoman continued, "During discussions and negociations with Darren it was brought to our attention that he in fact lives in a nearby area to Bethan," she added, "this helped in negociations as there was some affinity with the player and we were delighted when Chrome were able to seal the deal." In closing she said, "there are still many players yet to be sponsored and we are on the lookout for any willing companies or individuals."
A spokesman for Chrome Sport @ChromeSport who negociated the sponsorship added, "When we were asked by amberarmy.net who run the CW Press Office and supporters club to negociate a sponsor for Bethan we were delighted to help," he added, "from what we know Bethan travels quite far to play for Cambridge WFC and with Darren (Supporting Women's Football Blog) living in an area not too far from Bethan it works well," he went on, "we continually work with A*A and the club to find sponsor's for the team." In closing he said, "Having watched Bethan play she is deserving of the sponsorship, she is clearly talented and will no doubt go on to prove a very good player for Cambridge WFC in the future."
The club itself had this to say regarding sponsorship through Cambridge WFC's Vice Chair and reserve regular Vicky Hoover - For some reason, despite our best efforts we have not had any success in finding a main sponsor for the club, so we have had to try and think of other means of raising the much needed funds the club requires to survive. So the player sponsorship kicked off last season. It was the brain child of our friends at Amber Army, the initial thought was to try and obtain individual player sponsorship and the money would go direct to the players. However after much discussion with players and committee members we all agreed that any funds raised through the sponsorship scheme would go back into the club for the purchase of kit and equipment from which everyone can benefit. Last season we raised enough to purchase new training balls, water bottles, warm up tops and bibs. This season's target is to raise sufficient funds to purchase a new away kit.
Certainly from my point of view Bethan living nearby to myself was an added extra in deciding to sponsor a player at Cambridge WFC. I can understand the travelling that has to be undertaken to train and play. The club itself has been very welcoming and have a talented group of players. It is a mutually beneficial package as I'm aiming to help promote the women's game through my blog and the club and it's partners will help in this. I am delighted to sponsor Bethan Jones.
Introducing Bethan Jones
Of course having a blog gives me the opportunity to introduce to everyone the player I am sponsoring at Cambridge WFC, Bethan Jones. Just 17 years old the club told me that she is very much one for the future has been in the 1st team regulary this season, scored her 1st goal for the club away at Brentwood Town LFC back in November.
Bethan's mother Vicky who takes photographs at Cambridge WFC matches was kind enough to supply me with some background information on Bethan's football career to date starting close to where I currently live near Kings Lynn in Norfolk. For Wootton girls U10 & U11's along with featuring for West Norfolk before moving to Cyprus where she played for Olympiakos in 2007/08, then AE Ammochostos from 2008 - 2012 played ladies football from age 12. Has played with and against current international players from Romania, Sweden and Cyprus. Had the job of marking Scottish international and 2012 GB star Ifeoma Dieke whilst she was on loan to Apollon Ladies.
Has played against Russian champions Rossyanka and various touring Swedish clubs. Is also the youngest player to score in the Cypriot women's professional league when she was just 12 years old. Below are a few pictures of Bethan from her early fooball career kindly suppled by her mother Vicky.
Returning to the United Kingdom, Bethan played for Fakenham Town Ladies in Norfolk during 2012/13 before becoming a Cambridge WFC player. Seen her mostly on the right side of midfield but can fill in at right back has a good turn of pace and looks to attack with the ball can put a tackle in too. Her ambition is to one day play for Wales and I wish her every success in that goal, can look to a fellow South East Combination league player in MK Dons LFC player Alice Hassall who played in all of England U17's games at last years Euro's for inspiration in that aim. I wish her well in her football career going forwards.
The club were kind enough to provide a few lines regarding Bethan again via Vicky Hoover - Beth first started training with us towards the end of last season, she was still playing for Fakenham Town at the time but asked if she could come along to training and see how she got on. We always like to encourage new players and invited her to come along to training. Although she didn't sign for us last season she was back pre-season and eager to put pen to paper. Beth has established herself as a popular member of the squad, she is very likeable, sometimes quiet and reserved but quick to share a joke. She is one of the youngest members of the squad, which is great because she is a big talent now but still has so much to learn. She really is one to watch. She is a real asset to the club (as is her Mum who takes lots of lovely photos on a match day.) We hope Beth will enjoy a long and lucrative career with us here at Cambridge and we will do our best to nurture her talent.
In conclusion the club adds - We would really love to find sponsors for more of our players and if possible a main kit sponsor. We have sponsorship packages available and anyone interested can make enquiries via the CWFC press office @CWFCPressOffice or contact the club direct.
I had sponsored a player at Lincoln Ladies during their final WSL season and from a personal stand point find it a positive and rewarding way of expressing my support. Many clubs up and down the country whatever their size or league offer sponsorship packages for individual players, they are an important way for clubs to raise much needed funds to help with the day to day running of the club and look after it's players and staff, and also gives a boost to the player involved.
For the sponsor be it a business or individual it has several benefits too. For the individual fan or maybe even group/syndicate of fans it is rewarding to sponsor a player in terms of expressing support and adds further interest to watching the team. For a business it represents a means of added exposure and advertising within the individual clubs sponsorship package, be it through ground, program or website advertising, to what is going to be increasingly more common and a means for the women's game to lead the way somewhat through social media channels such as Twitter or Facebook.
Cambridge WFC are blessed to have a number of partners to help with promoting the club and it was through these partners I was approached. They have a supporters club run by amberarmy.net @amberarmynet and run a twitter account dedicated to supporting the club @CWFCPressOffice and it is through them I will pick up how the sponsorship deal took place, "The Sponsorship of Bethan happened after we noticed an appeal from her family for a sponsor and after a bit of research we passed the task of gaining a sponsor to club partner and agent Chrome Sport." The A*A spokeswoman continued, "During discussions and negociations with Darren it was brought to our attention that he in fact lives in a nearby area to Bethan," she added, "this helped in negociations as there was some affinity with the player and we were delighted when Chrome were able to seal the deal." In closing she said, "there are still many players yet to be sponsored and we are on the lookout for any willing companies or individuals."
A spokesman for Chrome Sport @ChromeSport who negociated the sponsorship added, "When we were asked by amberarmy.net who run the CW Press Office and supporters club to negociate a sponsor for Bethan we were delighted to help," he added, "from what we know Bethan travels quite far to play for Cambridge WFC and with Darren (Supporting Women's Football Blog) living in an area not too far from Bethan it works well," he went on, "we continually work with A*A and the club to find sponsor's for the team." In closing he said, "Having watched Bethan play she is deserving of the sponsorship, she is clearly talented and will no doubt go on to prove a very good player for Cambridge WFC in the future."
The club itself had this to say regarding sponsorship through Cambridge WFC's Vice Chair and reserve regular Vicky Hoover - For some reason, despite our best efforts we have not had any success in finding a main sponsor for the club, so we have had to try and think of other means of raising the much needed funds the club requires to survive. So the player sponsorship kicked off last season. It was the brain child of our friends at Amber Army, the initial thought was to try and obtain individual player sponsorship and the money would go direct to the players. However after much discussion with players and committee members we all agreed that any funds raised through the sponsorship scheme would go back into the club for the purchase of kit and equipment from which everyone can benefit. Last season we raised enough to purchase new training balls, water bottles, warm up tops and bibs. This season's target is to raise sufficient funds to purchase a new away kit.
Certainly from my point of view Bethan living nearby to myself was an added extra in deciding to sponsor a player at Cambridge WFC. I can understand the travelling that has to be undertaken to train and play. The club itself has been very welcoming and have a talented group of players. It is a mutually beneficial package as I'm aiming to help promote the women's game through my blog and the club and it's partners will help in this. I am delighted to sponsor Bethan Jones.
Introducing Bethan Jones
Bethan's mother Vicky who takes photographs at Cambridge WFC matches was kind enough to supply me with some background information on Bethan's football career to date starting close to where I currently live near Kings Lynn in Norfolk. For Wootton girls U10 & U11's along with featuring for West Norfolk before moving to Cyprus where she played for Olympiakos in 2007/08, then AE Ammochostos from 2008 - 2012 played ladies football from age 12. Has played with and against current international players from Romania, Sweden and Cyprus. Had the job of marking Scottish international and 2012 GB star Ifeoma Dieke whilst she was on loan to Apollon Ladies.
Has played against Russian champions Rossyanka and various touring Swedish clubs. Is also the youngest player to score in the Cypriot women's professional league when she was just 12 years old. Below are a few pictures of Bethan from her early fooball career kindly suppled by her mother Vicky.
The club were kind enough to provide a few lines regarding Bethan again via Vicky Hoover - Beth first started training with us towards the end of last season, she was still playing for Fakenham Town at the time but asked if she could come along to training and see how she got on. We always like to encourage new players and invited her to come along to training. Although she didn't sign for us last season she was back pre-season and eager to put pen to paper. Beth has established herself as a popular member of the squad, she is very likeable, sometimes quiet and reserved but quick to share a joke. She is one of the youngest members of the squad, which is great because she is a big talent now but still has so much to learn. She really is one to watch. She is a real asset to the club (as is her Mum who takes lots of lovely photos on a match day.) We hope Beth will enjoy a long and lucrative career with us here at Cambridge and we will do our best to nurture her talent.
In conclusion the club adds - We would really love to find sponsors for more of our players and if possible a main kit sponsor. We have sponsorship packages available and anyone interested can make enquiries via the CWFC press office @CWFCPressOffice or contact the club direct.
Sunday, 15 December 2013
SE Combination match report Norwich City LFC v Cambridge WFC
After an intense burst of women's football taking in England's games in the recent UEFA U17 Championships in the midlands 5 games in 13 days along with an East Anglian Championship match between Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire aswell as the South East Combination league clash between Ipswich Town Ladies and C&K Basildon... oh and the Norfolk Division 2 clash involving Freethorpe LFC and Ealham Colney LFC you'd think I'd be all footballed out and in need of a rest.
However 7 days without a match proved to feel very odd indeed and I was looking forwards to checking out the fixtures for this Sunday and deciding the best place to be. As it was, something else fairly important happens in December and I needed to visit a certain shop... well garden centre near Norwich to make a sneaky purchase without the mother knowing... thus the South East Combination league clash fortunately rearranged between Norwich City Ladies and Cambridge WFC was perfect.
That being said my luck at actually attending a women's football match at Norwich City Ladies home ground Plantation Park hasn't been great having turned up there when they were actually away on the 1st occasion and getting rained off earlier this season on the eve of the East Anglian derby match with Ipswich it was a case of 3rd time lucky. Situated in Blofield east of Norwich along the A47 the ground is easy to find if you use your eyes instead of your sat nav. A decent little ground with good facilities... the game was on!
Norwich have been the victim of several postponements and rearranged fixtures which now see's them playing catch up in the South East Combination which for them I'm sure has been frustrating for both players and management alike as they were in a hot streak of form one of the results in that period being a 6-1 victory over todays visitors Cambridge back in September.
Now for the reverse fixture expected Norwich to be strong opponents for Cambridge whom having seen several times now knew this was a much changed starting line up with no Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker on the bench the attacking duties fell to lone stiker Nuala Wayne with midfielder Laura Bright pushed further forwards to try and support her. As kick off started the rain that was building got heavier and heavier and with what looked like a heavy pitch to start with conditions weren't great.
With a changed line up you wouldn't want to concede an early goal but this is exactly what Cambridge did as Norwich won a free kick 25 yards out and it was fired in Norwich defender Kate Parsons rose unmarked to head the ball down into the near post and make it 1-0. Conditions were poor with the rain pouring down and players were sliding in with challenges from both sides midfield was a congested area of the pitch with Cambridge battling hard to win the ball Norwich had the balance of the attack with the visitors unable to get the ball up to Nuala Wayne and make it stick although chances on goal were few and far between with shots at both end from long range going wide and Cambridge keeper Verity Crook being in the right position to gather when needed. At half time Norwich led 1-0
The rain had stopped late in the 1st half and with the teams out for the 2nd half it was Cambridge who started the brighter were looking to get their flank players moving forwards quicker to support their striker were working hard to win the ball back higher up the pitch had a shot which was stabbed straight at the on rushing keeper. With support at hand Nuala Wayne was a threat driving at Norwich's defence from a ball played over the top the no 9 was through on goal with the keeper rushing out there was only one option the early lob and it was taken with aplomb to make it 1-1.
Cambridge were on top during this period another chance fell to midfielder Bethan Jones who played the ball past her full back had to chase it pressure the keeper who kicked it against her the ball cannoning back but wide of goal. Bethan Jones was through again minutes later but a tangle of legs in the box saw both players injured and having to be replaced.
There was a lengthy delay and this seemed to be just what Norwich needed to organise themselves as barely minutes later they were able to break on the right Chelsea Garrett breaking through to strike from the edge of the box and past the keeper into the back of the net to restore the lead at 2-1 now they were dominant keeping Cambridge pinned back had a further 2 shots that were saved by Verity Crook and a further 2 sliced wide of goal.
Cambridge had a late corner to try and salvage a point but the goal mouth scramble saw Norwich clear the ball and the final whistle blew for them to claim the 3 points. Move onto 21 points some 11 points behind league leaders C&K Basildon but with some 5 games in hand.
In the other 2 SE Combination league games today the afforementioned C&K Basildon racked up a 9-0 victory at Luton Town Ladies and the leagues 3rd placed team Milton Keynes Dons LFC scored 5 at home against Brentwood Town LFC.
However 7 days without a match proved to feel very odd indeed and I was looking forwards to checking out the fixtures for this Sunday and deciding the best place to be. As it was, something else fairly important happens in December and I needed to visit a certain shop... well garden centre near Norwich to make a sneaky purchase without the mother knowing... thus the South East Combination league clash fortunately rearranged between Norwich City Ladies and Cambridge WFC was perfect.
That being said my luck at actually attending a women's football match at Norwich City Ladies home ground Plantation Park hasn't been great having turned up there when they were actually away on the 1st occasion and getting rained off earlier this season on the eve of the East Anglian derby match with Ipswich it was a case of 3rd time lucky. Situated in Blofield east of Norwich along the A47 the ground is easy to find if you use your eyes instead of your sat nav. A decent little ground with good facilities... the game was on!
Norwich have been the victim of several postponements and rearranged fixtures which now see's them playing catch up in the South East Combination which for them I'm sure has been frustrating for both players and management alike as they were in a hot streak of form one of the results in that period being a 6-1 victory over todays visitors Cambridge back in September.
Now for the reverse fixture expected Norwich to be strong opponents for Cambridge whom having seen several times now knew this was a much changed starting line up with no Sophie Thompson and Laura Baker on the bench the attacking duties fell to lone stiker Nuala Wayne with midfielder Laura Bright pushed further forwards to try and support her. As kick off started the rain that was building got heavier and heavier and with what looked like a heavy pitch to start with conditions weren't great.
With a changed line up you wouldn't want to concede an early goal but this is exactly what Cambridge did as Norwich won a free kick 25 yards out and it was fired in Norwich defender Kate Parsons rose unmarked to head the ball down into the near post and make it 1-0. Conditions were poor with the rain pouring down and players were sliding in with challenges from both sides midfield was a congested area of the pitch with Cambridge battling hard to win the ball Norwich had the balance of the attack with the visitors unable to get the ball up to Nuala Wayne and make it stick although chances on goal were few and far between with shots at both end from long range going wide and Cambridge keeper Verity Crook being in the right position to gather when needed. At half time Norwich led 1-0
The rain had stopped late in the 1st half and with the teams out for the 2nd half it was Cambridge who started the brighter were looking to get their flank players moving forwards quicker to support their striker were working hard to win the ball back higher up the pitch had a shot which was stabbed straight at the on rushing keeper. With support at hand Nuala Wayne was a threat driving at Norwich's defence from a ball played over the top the no 9 was through on goal with the keeper rushing out there was only one option the early lob and it was taken with aplomb to make it 1-1.
Cambridge were on top during this period another chance fell to midfielder Bethan Jones who played the ball past her full back had to chase it pressure the keeper who kicked it against her the ball cannoning back but wide of goal. Bethan Jones was through again minutes later but a tangle of legs in the box saw both players injured and having to be replaced.
There was a lengthy delay and this seemed to be just what Norwich needed to organise themselves as barely minutes later they were able to break on the right Chelsea Garrett breaking through to strike from the edge of the box and past the keeper into the back of the net to restore the lead at 2-1 now they were dominant keeping Cambridge pinned back had a further 2 shots that were saved by Verity Crook and a further 2 sliced wide of goal.
Cambridge had a late corner to try and salvage a point but the goal mouth scramble saw Norwich clear the ball and the final whistle blew for them to claim the 3 points. Move onto 21 points some 11 points behind league leaders C&K Basildon but with some 5 games in hand.
In the other 2 SE Combination league games today the afforementioned C&K Basildon racked up a 9-0 victory at Luton Town Ladies and the leagues 3rd placed team Milton Keynes Dons LFC scored 5 at home against Brentwood Town LFC.
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