Cup Final Report - East Bergholt United v Ipswich Town Ladies Development

  A Thursday night trip to Suffolk to watch another Cup Final game, the last game of the season in the Suffolk Women's Division the League Cup Final with East Bergholt United taking on league Champions, Ipswich Town Ladies Development.

  Ipswich Town Ladies new Development side was formed this season and has won the league title at the 1st attempt the young squad going the entire season unbeaten with 12 victories and 2 draws. One more game left their 1st ever final, can they make it a league and cup double?

 Looking to stop them are East Bergholt United also in their 1st ever cup final. An established club with a large youth section, bolstered their ladies side bringing in a few players from Long Melford Ladies after the club, previous winners of the League Cup folded. A blend of youth and experienced players saw the club finish the season strongly clinching a top 3 finish.

  The two sides met just 5 days ago n their final game of the season, East Bergholt United taking a 1st half lead, Ipswich Town Ladies Development equalising in the 2nd half the 1-1 ensuring they finished their league campaign unbeaten.

Road to the Final

  9 teams began the season in the Suffolk Women's Division with both Ipswich Town Development and East Bergholt United handed a bye in the 1st Round. Ipswich Town Ladies Development progressed straight through to the semi-finals handed an away win against Leiston St Margarets. East Bergholt United were at home taking on Brantham Athletic Ladies a 2-0 win putting them into the semi-finals. 

  Ipswich Town Ladies Development were at home in the semi-finals taking on Walsham Le Willows 2nd in the league. Reached the final of the League Cup courtesy of a 4-1 win. East Bergholt United were away to Bacton United Ladies in the semi-finals and were initially knocked out of the competition, however an appeal was made due to an infringement of the rules, delaying the original final, eventually they were reinstated into the competition awarded an away win to reach the League Cup final.

  The venue for tonight's Suffolk Women's League Cup Final, Woodbridge Town FC. North East of Ipswich itself just off the A12. A large clubhouse holding a bar, kitchen and function room beside the main pitch another beside. A small seated stand on one side of a large pitch dry and firm underfoot like so many others after a dry April. Very cloudy and grey above no rain forecast however the temperature dropping a chilly evening.

  East Bergholt United starting XI - Cameron Hogg, Amber Brogin, Alice Longden, Deban Faiers, Holly Prior, Charlotte Warren, Georgina Longden (C), Jess Clark, Cara Savage, Jodie Sharp & Jess Oxlade.
  subs - Emily Lambert, Annabel Tricker, Pippa King, Ashlee Jacobs, Sarah George & Victoria Campbell.

 Ipswich Town Ladies Development starting XI - Teodora Kodova, Jessica Monk, Kedija Gbaja, Niamh Thomas, Beth Welton, Cat Upton (C), Florence Cage, Destiny Minors, Sophie Leming, Grace Bowman & Emily Steward
 subs - Taylor Cooke, Sian Cottrell, Debbie Greeves, Jennifer Purbrook & Elin Davies.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's East Bergholt to get the League Cup Final underway in the 1st half wearing green shirts with white trim, black shorts and socks, with Ipswich opposite wearing blue shirts and socks with white shorts. Closing down the ball in the middle, Sophie Leming gets hold of it for Ipswich moving right has Emily Steward making a run down the right looking to get in behind the East Bergholt defence taking the ball on down the line plays her cross into the area, swerves into the side netting.

  Winning the ball in the centre of the park East Bergholt the ball is played out to the left, Jodie Sharp looking to make ground up the field, holding it up support arriving the ball put into the middle Cara Savage looking to help it on for Jess Oxlade into the area, Ipswich goalkeeper Teodora Kodova coming out to the edge of her area gathers the ball into her gloves. A good start from East Bergholt keeping Ipswich pinned back a little win a throw deep near the corner flag on the left the ball played into the area deflected on towards goal, Kodova in the right place to claim it. 

   Playing the ball up field looking to put Oxlade in on goal between the two centrebacks, back peddling Niamh Thomas' header drops into Oxlade's path the striker can't quite bring it down into her strike with Kodova coming and between the goalkeeper and recovering defence Ipswich get the ball clear. 

Ipswich Town Ladies Development
Grace Bowman

  Ipswich captain, Cat Upton plays the ball up field into Steward linking up with Grace Bowman on the right the latter fires a cross along the top of the area going long comes to Beth Welton skipping up off the surface, East Bergholt's Jess Clarke comes into tackle before Welton can get it fully under control inside the box the ball running away for a corner. East Bergholt clear the delivery played in near post. An energetic start from both sides looking to move the ball quickly long at times space to use.

  Leming looks to thread the ball in behind for Destiny Minors coming off the right wing into the central, Holly Prior gets across in front of her to win the ball outside the area for East Bergholt. Bowman is played in on the ball top of the area, quickly closed down by Deban Faiers and goalkeeper Cameron Hogg, the striker squeezes a shot away the ball running narrowly wide of goal. Another opportunity falls to Steward space 25 yards out left of the D goes to strike the ball, deflected off a defender, Hogg adjusts her feet and takes the ball cleanly.

 East Bergholt attack down the right winning a corner kick fired in towards the top of the area is helped on into the middle, Savage running onto it sees her 1st time shot blocked the ball spinning back out to the right. Keeping the ball inside Ipswich's final 3rd, captain Georgina Longden plays the ball on for Savage linking up with Oxlade ahead of her through the middle, Ipswich's Kedija Gbaja makes a vital tackle inside the D to stop Oxlade getting through on goal.

  A great ball from Upton in the middle sees Steward in behind the East Bergholt defence on into the box right of goal, Hogg is off her line quickly winning the race gathers up the ball. Looking to get Sharp away on the left full of pace takes the ball inside looking to put Oxlade in behind, Thomas cuts it out. Amber Brogin gets back to tackle Minors as Florence Cage winning the ball tries to play her on down the wing from the resulting throw Leming gets the diagonal ball into Bowman outside the area, is closed down by the East Bergholt centrebacks, Faiers and Prior closing the door in front of her.

  Little goalmouth action as the 1st half reaches the midway point, a good contest East Bergholt working hard to pressure Ipswich on the ball frustrating their opponents somewhat as passes rushed aren't finding there mark. both sides make changes, East Bergholt bringing on Victoria Campbell and Emily Lambert for Brogin and Savage. Cage off for Ipswich, Taylor Cooke coming on. Clarke wins the ball in the centre circle on for Sharp coming in from the left time and space 30 yards out tries the shot, her effort bouncing in the six yard box is gathered by Kodova.

  Ipswich awarded a free-kick inside the East Bergholt half the ball is sent high up towards the top of the box, Charlotte Warren gets up highest to head the ball away for East Bergholt. Oxlade comes off for East Bergholt with Pippa King going up top. Leming drives forwards for Ipswich playing the ball out left for Bowman moving wide ahead of her Leming continues her run aiming to get into the box Bowman holding the ball up well tries the pick her out Leming can't quite take the ball into her stride as it crosses her path. The ball is sent long for Sharp to chase down on the left cuts inside to evade Jessica Monks challenge, the defender recovers quickly lunging in takes the ball from Sharp as she looks to thread it through for Oxlade.

Ipswich Town Ladies Development
Jessica Monks

   Both keepers are called into action coming out to the edge of their respective areas to gather the ball before the attackers can reach them. Bowman tries to make something happen on the left for Ipswich top corner of the area looks to turn inside, no way past Alice Longden lays in on for Welton, plays the ball across the area Minors closing in far post unable to connect with the ball as it runs wide for the goal kick. Hogg makes a good save at the feet of Steward as the Ipswich attacker looks to get onto the end of a ball lobbed over the top of the East Bergholt defence.

   Georgina Longden winning the ball with a well timed tackle in the centre helps it on for Sharp drifting inside once again a little closer to goal this time has another go, Kodova is right behind the ball takes it comfortably. Moving into the last few minutes of the 1st half Bowman casing after a ball played long into the left corner gathers on the byline turning back inside East Bergholt concede the corner, Steward is fouled awarded a free-kick outside the area left of goal, fired in near post Hogg is behind it East Bergholt look to counter Sharp is stopped in her tracks running over halfway by the referee signalling the end to the 1st half.

Half-time East Bergholt United 0-0 Ipswich Town Ladies Development

 Little goal mouth action in the 1st half, a lot of energy put into the 45 minutes Ipswich finding it hard to break down a well organised East Bergholt defence have had slightly more of the chances, looking to hit their opponents on the counter the Ipswich defence winning the ball. No clues as to who might find the break through in the 2nd half the Cup Final is delicately poised.

  Getting very chilly as the floodlights start to take full effect the sides out for the 2nd half Ipswich to get the ball rolling. Attacking early the ball out to Welton on the left bursting forwards passing it on down the wing, Bowman wins the race for the ball closed down gets it back into Welton looks to play the ball into the box is intercepted by Faiers, Minors regains possession right side drives towards the area knocking the ball on, Hogg calls for it the centrebacks split,the keeper just about scoops it up before Minors arrives. 

East Bergholt United's Jodie Sharp

  The energy levels remain the same both sides covering plenty of grass, counter attacking from both sides. Faiers winning the ball at the back for East Bergholt as Bowman tries to knock it in behind. An injury to Ipswich's Gbaja she is helped off the pitch as Clarke wins the ball for East Bergholt sends Sharp on down the left cutting inside is brought down the free-kick awarded, Sian Cottrell comes on for Ipswich before it's taken right corner outside the area the ball is drilled in low near post Kodova down low makes the save. 

 Ipswich counter attack the ball with Cooke fired long for Bowman coming inside from the left channel driving across the top of the East Bergholt area looks to slide Cottrell in far side, Warren intercepts comes back to Bowman 25 yards out, her shot charged down by Warren. Georgina Longden comes off for East Bergholt, Savage returning to the pitch. Sharp a constant threat for East Bergholt on the left wing carries the ball inside this time looking to get into the box is tackled by Thomas. 

  Minors with a powerful run on the ball down the right looks to send the ball on into the area for Cottrell she shoots firing the ball in near post a combination of defender coming across and goalkeeper covering the post sees the shot blocked/saved. Upton rolls her marker in the centre before firing the ball up towards Cottrell outside the area back to goal looks to flick the ball over the East Bergholt defence closely marked the ball in cut out. A quick turnaround the ball long up the middle bouncing in behind King after it keeper coming to the edge of her area, Thomas into challenge the ball hitting Kodova as she goes to ground is free for a moment however King has lost it giving Thomas time to get back at her and clear.

  Hogg is well positioned to get to the all twice as Ipswich look to get the ball into Cottrell up top the attacker having made a difference since coming on. Oxlade returns up top for East Bergholt replacing King. A battling display from the East Bergholt defence well supported by Warren in front of them Ipswich are a young side are getting frustrated the ball isn't rolling their way as with 20 minutes of normal time left to play. Sharp with the ball at her feet jinks left and right outside the area before firing in a cross, intercepted by Upton. Minors comes off for Ipswich, Elin Davies coming on. 

  Good work from Cottrell on the right side getting in behind fires the ball into the six yard box with Bowman making a near post run, waist height the striker can't get the ball down into her feet quick enough to get a shot away as Prior gets back on her to win the ball for East Bergholt. Sharp gathers the ball into her feet inside her own half, driving on holds off a challenge before sending a diagonal ball into the box for Oxlade to attack, Welton recovers well sliding in to take the ball away from her concede the corner. The ball doesn't clear the near post, cleared up field, Cottrell in the centre puts it out to Bowman moving left, coming back inside as she reaches the top of the area plays it square with Cooke getting forwards, shifts it between her feet looking for an opening, none on gives it back to Bowman hits the ball into the area drops wide of the near post.

 

Ipswich Town Ladies Development
Emily Steward

Ipswich are starting to see more of the ball East Bergholt defending well Steward moving left combines with Bowman rolling the ball into her 25 yards out drives a shot in on target through bodies the ball skipping up off the surface Hogg is right behind it keeps her eye on the ball gathering it up into her gloves. Davies fires a vicious ball in from the right coming near post the ball pops out of Hogg's gloves falling she can't prevent it bouncing behind for a corner again the delivery doesn't get past the near post. 

  A free-kick conceded by East Bergholt top corner outside the box on the right side, is a left footed delivery into the area on target coming in with plenty of pace Hogg back on her goal line saves gloving the ball up into the area falls into the six yard box players attack it East Bergholt with a goal line clearance. A good spell from Ipswich, Leming into Cottrell central back to goal turns Davies is free on the right plays the ball into her inside the box, drills her shot into the side netting. Possession on the right for Ipswich the ball away for a throw level with the top of the box helped on into Cottrell 20 yards out right of the D turns well sends a powerful shot in diving to her left Hogg can't reach it is off target however wide of her near post.

  Alice Longden with a great tackle to win the ball at the back for East Bergholt off Bowman on the right plays it on for Campbell puts it on for Sharp, surging down the line fires a pacey cross in towards goal a reactive save with her foot from Kodova the ball looping high into the air, going to claim it the goalkeeper is fouled as she brings the ball into her gloves. Campbell links up with Sharp again moments later in the middle Sharp to her right tussles with Welton as they run on the defender putting in the challenge just as Sharp sends the ball on into the area with Oxlade coming in from the left channel her shot held by Kodova, play is brought back for an offside. 

 Sharp remains down after a challenge and is unable to continue piggy backed off the pitch Georgina Longden returns to the action with very little time remaining for either side to find what would surely be the winning goal. Both sides try their best to find it getting the ball up field. Warren winning the header inside the box for East Bergholt. Clarke puts the ball on for Savage late on central charging it down the ball deflected on into the area Clarke goes after it Kodova is already on the move gathers first as the final whistle blows and the League Cup Final heads into extra-time.

Full time East Bergholt United 0-0 Ipswich Town Ladies Development

   Ipswich ended the 2nd half the stronger without finding the break through. East Bergholt have really done well defending dropping deeper, have they got the legs for another 30 minutes?

Extra-time

Ipswich to get the 1st period of extra-time under way. Little action as a player is down needing lengthy treatment players from both sides trying to keep warm. Alice Longden can't continue, Brogin is sent back on. Warren gets back on Cottrell as she looks to drive the ball through the centre. Clarke has the ball wide right for East Bergholt, Savage tracks her forcing her away from the area, Clarke manages to wriggle free the angle against her plays the ball behind at the near post. 

  Bowman is giving chase to alot of lost causes played long down the left and a frustrated as she is, she is getting to most of them, turning back up field looking to force her way into the box, has support from Cottrell rolling the ball inside Cottrell spots Leming coming on central rolls the ball into her shoots from 25 yards out her effort looping up dips too early straight into the keepers gloves. 

  Changes for both sides Sharp comes back on for East Bergholt replacing Faiers. Steward is substituted for Ipswich, Jennifer Purbrook coming on to join the attack. A lot of effort put in by East Bergholt they are starting to tire. Cook works the ball in field from a throw in on the right almost slips the ball in to the box for Cottrell to latch on to, Warren getting back to tackle in the nick of time.

  The 1st period of extra-time ends goalless 15 more minutes for the two sides to try and find a winning goal or the final will be settled on penalties. East Bergholt get the 2nd period of extra-time underway. An early free-kick to Ipswich wide of the area a chance to put the East Bergholt goal under pressure but the opportunity is wasted, East Bergholt counter the ball sent long for Oxlade to chase reaches Kodova inside her box before the attacker can get there. 

Cottrell takes the ball inside as she receives from a wide position rolls it into Purbrook given time and space 30 yards from goal pulls the trigger her strike taking a deflection loops but and drops safely into Hogg's gloves. Bowman is played on into the box gathering the ball on the byline left of goal evades Prior's challenge as she turns back inside running towards the top of the area looks to turn and strike the ball, Brogin comes sliding in wins the ball gets hurt making the challenge.

  Another lengthy delay for an injury Faiers returns to the pitch. Cottrell goes down under challenge is in a lot of pain after lengthy treatment on the pitch cannot continue is helped of keeping her foot off the floor. Little time left on the clock as play resumes East Bergholt sit deep offering no way through for Ipswich as the referee signals the end to extra-time no goals it will come down to holds their nerve in the penalty shoot-out.

Penalties

  I hate penalty shootouts but then I say this every time I have to cover one. Both sides have battled really hard for 2 hours now it comes down to spot kicks.

  Ipswich to take the 1st penalty up walks Bowman hits it hard to the keepers right Hogg doesn't move the ball in the back of the net 1-0

  Clarke to take East Bergholt's 1st penalty a short run up but plenty of power behind the kick, Kodova gets her fingertips in it but can't stop it going in 1-1

Steward with Ipswich's 2nd penalty hits it low to the keepers right Hogg dives full stretch but the ball finds the bottom corner. 2-1

 Captain Georgina Longden with East Bergholt's 2nd penalty kick a confident strike low to the keepers right. 2-2

  Purbrook comes forwards for penalty number 3 for Ipswich hits it hard straight through the middle close to Hogg but the goalkeeper can't get enough on the ball to stop it going in 3-2

  King comes forwards for penalty number 3 for East Bergholt squeezes in under the diving Kodova's gloves as she throws herself to her right 3-3

 Upton to take Ipswich's 4th penalty the captain hitting it as sweet as you like into the top right corner 4-3

  The pressure mounting up comes Campbell for East Bergholt's 4th penalty low to Kodova's right the keeper doesn't get enough on the ball to prevent it going in 4-4

  8 penalties converted one left of the regular 5 now a sudden death situation as Leming steps up to take for Ipswich pulls her penalty wide of the post misses, walks away distraught can't face her team mates 4-4

 Sharp to take East Bergholt's 5th penalty to win the League Cup opts for power placing the ball high but like Leming sends it wide of the post, it's a cruel game 4-4 it remains.

  Up comes Cooke for Ipswich's 6th penalty, pressure what pressure? Sends the ball low into the bottom corner 5-4

  Now East Bergholt have to score to keep their cup dreams alive. Up comes Savage blasts it hard through the middle the ball rising Kodova gets something on it sending it on up onto the crossbar to make the save and is buried under her joyous team mates before she can even pick herself up off the floor, Ipswich Town Ladies Development win the League Cup and with it the double in their 1st season as a team!

  A very harsh way to lose a final, heartbreak for East Bergholt, a superb effort to keep Ipswich quiet frustrated their opponents without too many opportunities to grab a goal up the other end as the game wore on penalties looked the likely outcome and Ipswich came out victors. 

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

  A tough call for today's SWF Blog - Player of the Match alot of work put in by a lot of players and it all came down to penalties 0-0 after 2 hours of football have chosen East Bergholt's Charlotte Warren did a great job in front of her defence tracking back and winning the ball when called upon. Frustrating Ipswich good positioning on set-pieces.

 Congratulations to Ipswich Town Ladies Development on their league and cup double a fantastic achievement in their 1st season.

Ipswich Town Ladies Development with their league and cup awards

  A late one tonight, my thanks to both clubs for their assistance with the team line-ups.

Cup Final Report - Brantham Athletic Ladies v Witnesham Wasps Ladies

   A Wednesday night trip into Suffolk to Hadleigh United FC to watch this seasons Women's league Cup Final between Brantham Athletic Ladies & Witnesham Wasps Ladies.

  Just the 7 sides are contesting the Suffolk Women's Division this season, Brantham Athletic Ladies currently lead the way with Witnesham Wasps Ladies in 3rd place.

Route to the Final

   The League Cup competition started at the quarter final stage with Copleston Ladies the team receiving the Bye into the semi-finals. Brantham Athletic Ladies were drawn away to new side Leiston St Margarets Ladies, reached the semi-finals courtesy of a 5-1 win. In the semi-final were drawn on home soil to play Bacton United Ladies scored 5 times once again beating them 5-2 to earn a place in the final for the 2nd year running and will be hoping to go one better this time, losing back then to Long Melford Ladies who made it a league and cup double, sure Brantham Athletic Ladies would love to do the same this time around.

  Witnesham Wasps Ladies were also away in the quarter final stage against another new side in the Suffolk Women's Division, Ipswich Phoenix Ladies, reached the semi-finals with ease clocking up 9 goals whilst conceding just the 1. Were drawn away to Copleston Ladies in the semi's originally at the back end of November it was a tight encounter going all the way finishing 2-2 after extra time, however the match was called off before the penalty shoot out could commence due to it being too dark. The semi-final was rescheduled with an earlier kick off time two weeks later this time Witnesham Wasp Ladies went on to score 4 times beating Copleston Ladies 4-2 to set up a League Cup Final date with Brantham Athletic Ladies.

  The venue for tonight's League Cup Final, Hadleigh United FC. A small non-league ground situated in a picturesque part of Suffolk. A large pitch with a small seated and covered stand on one side of the pitch opposite a large clubhouse and bar offering a covered viewing area outside on the opposite side, with hot refreshments available. A bright and clear night with no sign of the rain seen earlier in the day, rapidly cooling as the light faded and the floodlights started to come on.

  Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI - Keri Burley, Shanice Leeks, Charlotte Partridge, Monique Peters, Merlin Watson, Jo Hazelton, Lucy Elmes, Danielle Harvey, Lucy Dunnett (C) Becky Prime & Kirsten Hutchings 

  subs - Heather Andrews, Carra Seeley, Katy Skinner, Ana Carolina & Jessica Ryan.

  Witnesham Wasps Ladies starting XI - Zoe Adams, Chloe Stopher, Lauren Jacobs, Kristy Bootyman, Caitlin Howe, Sho Allen, Beth Welton, Ali Rampling, Natasha Adams (C), Emily Steward & Emma Long.

  subs - Lauren Page, Chloe Anderson, Annabel Tricker, Izzy Leming & Lucy Johnson.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's Brantham to get the 1st half of the Suffolk Women's League Cup Final underway. Kitted out in an all blue kit with Witnesham lined up opposite wearing yellow and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and yellow socks. They press Brantham for the ball right from the start winning it in midfield and trying to release, Beth Welton away on the right wing. Brantham regain possession and playing the ball into the Witnesham half captain Lucy Dunnett fights a bit of space moving to the right looks to play the ball up to her strikers Becky Prime and Kirsten Hutchings the ball dropping to the right side of the Witnesham area, full back Chloe Stopher defends well up against the latter as she looks to get on the ball.

  Brantham with the ball down the right attack winning a throw the ball is dropped to the bright orange boots of Dunnett, immediately she looks to play in Hutchings down the line getting onto the ball she drives into the area taking on the shot from an acute angle flashes the effort behind the Witnesham goal.

  Witnesham have begun at a fast tempo snapping at Brantham whenever they have the ball, force the error then look to attack get the ball out to either Emma Long moving into space left or Welton on the right. Emily Steward playing through the middle links up with Welton on the right the ball taken deep into the Brantham half brings the 1st corner of the match. An in swinging ball from the right towards the near post the ball is headed clear by Brantham's Charlotte Partridge. 

  Danielle Harvey drives forwards with the ball at her feet from Brantham looking to take on the Witnesham defence is pushed out to the left side of the box, going for the early shot, the contact is poor as the ball is sliced wide of the target. Witnesham concede a couple of free kicks in the middle of the park both against Dunnett, with the no 11 to take the set pieces looks to send the ball long towards the area on both occasions and both times the Witnesham defence marshals the ball well. 

Danielle Harvey drives forwards with the ball for Brantham Athletic Ladies

   The ball pinging around in the centre circle with neither side getting hold of it pops free into the Brantham half with Long the player getting onto the end of it, driving forwards towards the edge of the area right of the D pulls the trigger sends her strike swerving in towards goal, bu straight into the gloves of Brantham goalkeeper, Keri Burley. Free kick to Witnesham wide on the right inside the Brantham half, it's Tash Williams, Witnesham's captain to take plays it in towards Welton right side of the area, heads the ball on across the front of the box into the crowd beyond drops amongst bodies far side a shot comes in the ball rolling wide of goal.

  Sho Allen with time and space on the ball in the middle for Witnesham is allowed to bring the ball on winds up a shot 25 yards out hitting Brantham defender Monique Peters the ball spins away to the left is latched onto Long free beyond 20 yards out hits her shot wide of goal. A scrappy start, Witnesham's energy to close Brantham down is seeing them get more possession of the ball. Brantham with Dunnett always a threat whenever she gets on the ball put it into space behind the Witnesham defence with Hutchings giving chase left side, Stopher stays on her gets her toe on the ball to put it out for a corner kick. A good delivery coming in high Witnesham goalkeeper Zoe Adams goes up for it in the centre of her goal, brushing it with a glove, drops behind her, no one for Brantham attacking the far post the ball goes out for a corner kick on the right. This one is played out to the top of the box with Hutchings making a run to get across her marker gets her foot on the ball turns the shot goalwards, close but just the wrong side of the post.

   Break for Witnesham on the left Kirsty Bootyman releases Long out on the left wing, gets her head down carries the ball on aiming for the Brantham box releases her shot even as the defender coming in to challenge goes down to try and block the shot the ball evading her but is stopped by Burley who has come racing out off her goal line towards the danger sliding gets hold of the ball to make the save. 

  Jo Hazelton brings the ball on inside the Witnesham half pushing in from the left side into the centre, Prime comes towards her from attack to offer a passing option is given the ball as Hazelton looks to race on in behind her, Prime back to Dunnett who plays the pass over the Witnesham defence to pick out Hazelton driving into the area moving out to the left of the goal shoots back across goal from the edge of the six yard box, Adams gets down sharply to save, taking the pace off the ball then getting hold of it. A change for Witnesham with Bootyman coming off and Lauren Page coming on. 

Dunnett with a shot from 20 yards out central as the ball is fired into her, bringing it under control shifts it a yard then sends it in towards goal a bouncing ball, Adams has time to set herself see it safely into her gloves. Welton is posing a few questions for Brantham on the right, looking to get in behind the defence and cross into the area as they make a 2nd change bringing off Steward sends Izzy Leming on to up top. Partridge carries the ball on from the back for Brantham over half way played on for Dunnett who attempts to play the ball on for Hutchings to chase into the Witnesham area, Adams coming out to meet the threat gets to the ball 1st as the referee brings the 1st half to a close.

  Half-time Brantham Athletic Ladies 0-0 Witnesham Wasps Ladies

  Has been a good contest 1st half, the sides closely matched, Witnesham have put a lot of effort into pressing Brantham off the ball, trying to release Welton and Long on the flanks, both sides have created chances but for the large part defences have been on top.

  Witnesham out early from the dressing room get the 2nd half underway, Brantham have Jessica Ryan out on the pitch with Harvey off. Attacking down the Witnesham left Brantham get a throw on that side Williams fouls Hazelton as she looks to turn right of the area. Dunnett over the set piece puts the ball over the goal frame. Brantham have started the 2nd half strongly pushing Witnesham back keeping possession inside their own half. 

  GOAL! Brantham take the lead. Possession on the right brings a throw the ball is played on to Dunnett who turns into the box on the right, looks to shoot, changes her mind knocks it on further to create room and hits the ball across the goal putting it into the back of the net 1-0.

Brantham Athletic captain battling for the ball with Witnesham Wasps Sho Allen
scores the opening goal in the Suffolk Women's League Cup Final

  Have been a few rashly timed challenges which the referee has been quick to blow up on. Both sides committing them in and around the centre circle. Williams and Hutchings have come together on a couple of occasions the latest encounter sees Williams needing treatment as they contest a 50/50 ball, comes off with Annabel Tricker being sent on. 

  Brantham win a free kick wide on the left half way inside the Witnesham half everyone goes into the area with Dunnett to deliver. Is a fantastic ball sent in towards the near post, on target dropping you can see it's going to be a difficult one for the keeper to deal with. Adams goes for it gets some part of her glove on the ball, the crowd cheer, Dunnett looks to celebrate, I'd started to write 2-0... but no the ball was turned around the post for a corner kick a fantastic save from the keeper. 

   Welton pushing with the ball down the right wins Witnesham a corner kick, is played in towards her on the edge of the area, plays the dummy the ball rolling under her foot on to Page behind coming onto the ball inside the D, wraps her foot around the shot, too many bodies to get through, before play is pulled of for an offside decision. Another enforced change for Witnesham with Long hurt after a challenge on the right, has to come off with Steward returning to the action to support Leming up in attack as they search for an equalising goal.

  Hazelton gets the ball from Elmes in the centre of midfield taking it on Ryan is free on the right for Brantham given the ball turns inside looking to fire the ball into Prime who dinks it over the top of the Witnesham defence, One of those moments where both defence and goalkeeper hesitate, Ryan bursts in behind to get onto the ball rolling out to the right of goal inside the area, pulls her shot wide at the front post. Williams has recovered from her knock to return to the game comes on in place of Page goes up to join the attackers.

  A vital lunge to get her boot on the ball from Brantham's Partridge as Witnesham attack down the right, play spread the ball had it found it's target would have seen Williams free to attack the goal from the right side as it is they have a corner off Partridge's interception. Coming in high towards the near post is flicked behind for another corner on the opposite side. This delivery drops down into the middle of the six yard box several attempts to connect with the bouncing ball, the vital touch is from a Brantham boot as the ball is launched clear. Few Witnesham players starting to feel it put alot of effort in cramping up

Emily Steward on the ball for Witnesham Wasps

 Winning the ball at the back Witnesham's Lauren Jacobs plays it long with the break on Williams left in front of the Brantham area has Steward to her right looks to play the ball on for her into the area, Burley comes racing out and is able to claim the ball 1st. A free kick for Brantham in a go position 20/25 yards out right side of the D, always going to be a shot from Dunnett from this position, gets far too much elevation on the ball sending it high into the night sky over the goal. Double change for Brantham as the match moves into the final 5 minutes of normal time. Hazelton and Prime the players coming off with Katy Skinner and Heather Andrews coming on. Shortly afterwards Witnesham's Stopher suffers from a particularly painful cramping in her right leg and comes off, Chloe Anderson joining the action.

   Ana Carolina also comes on late on for Brantham with Carra Seeley coming off. Witnesham have to push a few extra bodies forwards as they try and get a goal. Welton and Steward combine on the right high inside the Brantham half a give and go, the final pass to put Welton in behind won't come off. A free kick for Witnesham 30 yards out left/central, Ali Rampling over the ball is encouraged to go for goal a good effort dropping late however coming across her goal Burley can see it wide.

  GOAL! 3 minutes of normal time left to play and Brantham double their lead to put the result beyond doubt. Witnesham are looking to carry the ball out from the back lose possession with Dunnett getting onto the ball inside the centre circle has Andrews close by no her right lifts the pass on to her she plays it over the top into the path of Hutchings making a move to get forwards left side, shoots from the edge of the area burying the ball past Adams to score 2-0. 

Kirsten Hutching with the ball doubles Brantham Athletic Ladies lead late on

   In to injury time, Witnesham need the ball but can't get it as play is broken up by Brantham who keep it inside their opponents half to see out the final minutes and cue the celebrations as the referee blows the final whistle to see Brantham win the Suffolk Women's League Cup.

   Was a good contest, competitive both sides working hard, Witnesham just could match the intensity they put into pressing the ball 1st half as they tired 2nd half. Brantham got the early goal in the 2nd half and looked like they would hold onto the lead the 2nd goal coming late into the game ensuring the win. Played in front of a good sized crowd too who saw an entertaining final.

Brantham Athletic Ladies, Suffolk Women's League Cup Winners (photo credit Brantham Athletic)

  Thank to the Suffolk FA staff for their help tonight with the teams. Congratulations to Brantham Athletic Ladies on their Cup Final success, enjoy the celebrations.

Cup Final Report - Brantham Athletic Ladies v Long Melford Ladies

   Thursday evening trip down into Suffolk to watch my 2nd Women's League Cup Final of the week. The venue Hadleigh FC to watch Brantham Athletic Ladies v Long Melford Ladies.

   Tonight's League Cup is the 2nd meeting between the 2 clubs in a week with both involved in a final day title decider in the Suffolk Women's Division last Sunday, just 2 points separated the pair going into the last match of the season against one another. Long Melford Ladies were at the top of the table having spent much of the season catching up to Brantham Athletic Ladies who had been at the top for much of the campaign. Long Melford Ladies ran out 7-1 winners on the day to win the league.

   The Finalists

   Having missed out on the league Brantham Athletic Ladies had a 2nd bite at winning some silverware this season in the League Cup Final. The Suffolk Women's Division contained 10 clubs at the start of the season, by the end 3 clubs would be lost to the league. Brantham Athletic Ladies received a bye in the 1st round, then were awarded an away win with Bury Town Ladies after they pulled their reserves team out of the league. So it wasn't until the semi finals themselves before they faced an opponent, won 2-1 against Bacton United Ladies to earn their spot in tonight's final.

  Long Melford Ladies having clinched the league at the weekend had a chance to win the double, like Brantham Athletic Ladies the club received a bye in the 1st round. Were drawn away to Copleston Ladies in the quarter finals with the match ending 1-1 after extra time a penalty shoot out was required Long Melford Ladies won through winning 2-3. This set up a semi final meeting at home to East Bergholt United Ladies, a 2-0 victory put them into the final.

   The venue Hadleigh FC a small stadium tucked away in the picturesque countryside of Suffolk. A good clubhouse and facilities beside the playing surface which looked in good condition a little dry, good size a good number of supporters had turned out to watch on a bright and mild Thursday evening as the 2 teams came out onto the pitch.

  Brantham Athletic Ladies starting XI - Heather Andrews, Miriam Howe, Monique Peters, Charlotte Partridge, Katy Skinner, Jo Hazelton, Lucy Elmes, Lucy Dunnett (C), Emmi Bennett, Kirsten Hutchings & Emily Boore.
  subs - Nadine Williams, Keri Burley, Ezmee Yallope, Coral Williamson & Timisha Grant.

  Long Melford Ladies starting XI - Ellie Aldous, Jodie Sharp, Deben Howlett (C), Rachel Linsdell, Jess Clark, Megan Partridge, Sheral Williamson, Jessie Casey, Kerry Humphries, Beth Hurst & Penny Everett.
  subs - Amy Harrington, Jo Marshall, Dolly Orr, Hannah Whiting & Francesca Cole.

                                      (roll on roll off substitutions)

   It's Brantham to get the final under way kicking off the 1st half wearing and all blue strip with white trim on the shoulders of their shirts against Long Melford lined up in black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and socks. Brantham start positively, Long Melford look a little nervous as the team in blue take the ball into their half an early cross in from the right is headed away from inside the box by Long Melford captain Deben Howlett.

   Brantham retain possession keeping Long Melford penned inside their own half without really getting the ball in beyond them, 5 minutes are on the clock before Long Melford finally bring the ball out over the halfway line. In their 1st attack midfielder Penny Everett making the forwards run is slid in centrally by Rachel Linsdell, Everett opts to shoot early with the Brantham centre backs closing the door the block is made the ball spinning away for a corner. The set piece comes all the way through from the left to Everett standing just inside the box at the far post, can't wrap her foot over the ball to keep the shot down as it flies over the bar.

  GOAL! Long Melford open the scoring comes from an unforced error at the back from Brantham, goalkeeper Heather Andrews presents the ball to Long Melford striker Megan Partridge 30 yards out. She has the ball takes it into the box, central sending her shot past Andrews and into the back of the net 0-1.

Long Melford's Megan Partridge on the ball opened the scoring

   Brantham deal with couple of Long Melford corners before taking the ball up the right wing and winning a corner themselves is played long to the far post a Long Melford defender headers the ball high into the air is dropping awkwardly towards goal Long Melford goalkeeper Ellie Aldous needs to keep her eye on the ball is able to collect with Brantham closing her down.

   Long Melford's Beth Hurst is presented with the ball from a defensive header 25 yards from goal right side of the goal, sends a shot back in but finds Andrews well placed to make the save. Long Melford win the ball back from the Brantham defence the pass putting Megan Partridge away on the left of the area she enters the box looks to shoot near post, Andrews is across to drop low to make the save.

   A good turn of pace from Long Melford's Jodie Sharp out wide left takes her beyond the Brantham defence puts her cross in looking for Megan Partridge running in on goal, the ball is past her before she can turn it into the net, retrieves it out wide right on the by line her ball back in is claimed by Andrews.

Brantham Athletic Ladies captain Lucy Dunnett

  Brantham are looking to counter attack, their captain Lucy Dunnett has a good range of passes on her is taking the set plays, bringing the ball up over the halfway line sends a pass out the Long Melford defence into the right of the area for Kirsten Hutchings to chase down, watching the ball come down over her shoulder she looks to hit the ball on the half volley, screws her shot wide of goal.

 

Kirsten Hutchings

GOAL! Is a fantastic pass from Dunnett from inside the Long Melford half that dissects their centre backs with Hutchings making the run to steal in beyond into the area to get herself in on goal, sends her shot across the goal beating Aldous to level the scores 1-1.

  Sharp is alert latching onto a wayward Brantham clearance out on the left looks to come inside getting into a central position, is given the time and space to line up a shot, takes it on pulls it wide of goal 35 yards out. Megan Partridge is slid through on goal but Brantham defender Monique Peters is very quick and across to put in the tackle before the shot is released. Partridge then has her head in her hands after sending a shot wide of goal from 3 yards out as she steals in unmarked from a throw sent in from the right.

  



     GOAL! Long Melford restore their lead is again from an error at the back by Brantham

Penny Everett

this time it is Everett who latches onto the ball, taking it into the area left of the goal she gives Andrews little chance to set herself shooting early firing the ball across her and into the goal 1-2.

   Long Melford make a double change with Hurst and Sheral Williamson coming off with Francesca Cole and Amy Harrington coming on. It's Sharp on the left for Long Melford taking the ball into the corner sends her cross in looking for Partridge, Peters is across again to make the interception. 3rd change for Long Melford with Williamson making a prompt return to the pitch for Partridge.

   A good strong run from Hutchings in attack for Brantham to look to take the ball beyond the Long Melford defence her touch is too heavy as she takes the ball wide of the goal on the right manages to win a corner as she tries to play the ball back across the goal. The set piece coming in is met by the head of Charlotte Partridge making the run from the edge of the area to meet the ball, is an instinctive save from Aldous throwing up a glove turns the ball up onto the crossbar comes back out to Partridge she tries to redirect her header back in places the ball onto the roof of the net.

                      Half-time Brantham Athletic Ladies 1-2 Long Melford Ladies.

   An entertaining 1st half in front of a good numbered crowd of around 200 on a Thursday evening, both sides looking to be positive and travel with the ball Long Melford have capitalised upon a couple of Brantham errors at the back to score their 2 goals the score at 1-2 though all to play for 2nd half.

  Brantham are out on the pitch early the coaching staff putting them through a warm up to get them firing for the start of the 2nd half. Sharp is off the pitch for Long Melford at the start of the 2nd half with Hurst back on the pitch. Everett plays the diagonal ball out into space for Francesca Cole on the right of the area running after it takes on the shot is a tight angle can't get it past Andrews who claims the ball.

   Long Melford are slow to get the ball out from the back, Hutchings always alert for a chance steals the ball and surges beyond into the area left of goal, she doesn't want to shoot with her left foot trying to dig it out with her right plants the shot wide.

   Good attacking play from Brantham the ball played up to Emily Boore by Lucy Elmes, the attacker with a deft header drops the ball nicely into Hutchings beyond the Long Melford defence edge of the area Aldous comes to close her down, Hutchings tries to slide the ball around her the keeper gets a glove to the ball knocking it away from both of them.

  Sharp and Megan Partridge return to the pitch Williamson and Cole giving way. Has been a quieter start to the 2nd half Dunnett is playing deeper for Brantham 2nd half her passes less effective.

   GOAL! Brantham have been putting the Long Melford box under pressure for a couple minutes and they level the scores for the 2nd time a great diagonal ball sent in from wide on the left rolls through the gap between goalkeeper and defence coming all the way trough to Emmi Bennett running in at the far post, she smashes the ball back in across the goal to make it 2-2.

   On top at the minute Hutchings spins off the shoulder of the last Long Melford defender as the ball is played in from the right, into the box shoe looks to shoot across the keeper, fires her shot straight at Aldous the keeper makes the save but spilling the ball, has to scramble up and retrieve the ball before it can creep over the line.

    Brantham are pushed up higher in the 2nd period giving Long Melford the chance to run beyond if they want to send the ball over the top in Sharp they have a player full of pace who can travel quickly with the ball at her feet. In a central position is looking to get into the box slips but with the Brantham back line trying to keep up with her the ball winds up in space Sharp is up and tries to curl the shot in, won't turn back in goes behind the goal.

   Playing out on the right of the attack now Bennett has been getting the ball into some good crossing positions for Brantham, Long Melford bring on Williamson rested for Jess Clark to mark her. Central Jo Hazelton travels forwards with the ball taking it into the congested D tries to shift it for the shot, it's Kerry Humphries who puts in the tackle to win the ball back for Long Melford. Brantham make a change new legs in attack with Timisha Grant coming on for Emily Boore as wide right Bennett wins a corner the ball is headed on at the near post, Hutchings tries to bring it down for the shot six yards out is charged down.

    Play has got a little scrappy as the final enters the last 15 minutes, both teams are looking for another goal play is congested into the Long Melford half as Brantham defend a high line when they have the ball, Sharp always ready to run when the ball is sent up the pitch. Amy Harrington leaves the pitch with Clark coming back on. Sharp is sent through bearing down on the area Peters shows good recovery skills covering the ground quickly to win the ball catching Sharp unawares before the shot is released. Brantham bring on Ezmee Yallope for Hazelton.

  GOAL! Into the last 5 minutes of normal time Brantham have been attacking the ball is won with their defence high the ball is put beyond for Sharp to run down as she peels off the shoulder of the last defender taking the ball out wide right has plenty of time and space to tee up the cross has Megan Partridge running up with her getting into the area, picks her out Partridge coolly turning the ball into the back of the net from 12 yards out 2-3.

  Into injury time Brantham throw everyone forwards send Boore back on everyone bar the goalkeeper is in the Long Melford half.

  GOAL! Long Melford win the ball and launch it up the pitch wide left Brantham let it bounce and this gives Sharp a chance to pounce is after the ball racing clear of everyone she takes it all the way into the box right of Andrews goal the keeper closes the angle, Sharp though powers the ball over her and into the back of the net throws her arms up into the air knowing the win is almost there 2-4.

   Just enough time for Long Melford to bring on Hannah Whiting for a cameo appearance before the referee blows the final whistle and Long Melford celebrate a league an cup double, something manager John Harrington tells me he could only dream about having started the club up just 4 years ago.

    A decent sized crowd for a Thursday evening League Cup Final were entertained by a good match contested between to eager sides, hard luck for Brantham to concede 2 late goals and miss out on both the league and the cup this season.

   The presentation from the Suffolk FA a double one with Long Melford assured the league before the final kicked off come to collect the shield, then Deben Howlett comes back to collect the cup and cue the celebrations.

  Congratulations to Long Melford Ladies winning the league and cup double.