Match Report - Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

 The Women's FA Cup 2nd Round Qualifying action continues on the Supporting Women's Football Blog this weekend with a trip down the A11 to the Ridgeons Stadium to watch Newmarket Town Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Is a match up between two ambitious women's football clubs looking to grow and progress up the football pyramid, both with large playing squads starting up reserve sides this season.

  This is Newmarket Town Ladies 1st competitive match at their new home the Ridgeons Stadium on Cricket Field Road in Newmarket, home of the men's side and a stark contrast to the Dullingham Polo Fields where they played previously. The ground has undergone alot of development since the last time I was there, have in place a state of the art cork based 3G pitch. 

  Newmarket Town ladies compete in the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership and are looking to push on up the table this season, with their League Cup winning U18s side stepping up to the senior squad this season, plus a few new signings the 1st team is complemented by a new reserve side competing in the Championship South. Started the league season last weekend, Nadine Basson scoring the goal in a 1-0 win away to Netherton United Ladies. A good test for a young squad today playing higher league opposition. 

  Wymondham Town Ladies had a great run in the Women's FA Cup last season winning through to 4th Round Qualifying beating FAWPL Division One side Cambridge United WFC along the way. Eventually losing to another FAWPL Division One side, Bedford Ladies. Followed their FA Cup adventure on the Blog last season. Wymondham Town Ladies went on to win the Norfolk Women's Division One title and as Champions of Norfolk have been promoted to the new look ERWFL Division One where they have started well laying 2nd in the table after 4 games played going into the weekend. A league above Newmarket, Wymondham have nearly a month more competitive football under their belts.

  May have been a little premature calling summer over last evening in the cold and drizzle at Bishops Stortford for today was a lovely warm sunny afternoon. Boasting a new state of the art 3G pitch the rest of the ground is coming along nicely to, room for spectators around the whole pitch, has a good sized seated stand beside the clubhouse, with a bar and hot refreshments available. 

The new cork based state of the art 3G pitch at the Ridgeons Stadium

  Newmarket Town Ladies starting XI - Eloise Hope, Yasmin Woodfield, Olivia Orme, Beth Woodfield (C), Kristin Hummel, Abbi Griffin, Jess Linger, Antonia Smith, Joeli Kirby, Abbie Marshall & Nadine Basson.
  subs - Sian Tatum, Molly Agnew, Natalia Evangelou, Dominika Szary & Jodie Woodfield.

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Ashleigh O'Callaghan, Kelly Ayers, Leah Newcombe, Bethany Fretwell, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs - Summer Moore, Hannah Johnson, Lily Ray & Ella Swift.

  It's Newmarket to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway wearing yellow shirts with blue shoulders and trim, blue shorts with yellow trim and yellow socks with blue and white hoops. Wymondham lined up opposite wearing red shirts, black shorts and red and black hooped socks. The visitors win possession of the ball early played into Kayleigh Holloway down the left wing crosses the ball in curling it towards the near post with Laura Wiseman making the run to get on the end of it gets a touch but not enough to take it past Newmarket goalkeeper, Eloise Hope who claims well covering the angle.

Kristen Hummel tackles, Gemma Sanders for the ball

  On the right inside the Newmarket half Gemma Sanders closes Joeli Kirby down to win the ball and run in behind shooting from 20 yards out sends the ball wide of goal. Newmarket make progress up the right Wymondham's Brooke Cheal-Ferris closing Antonia Smith down to give the opposition a throw in the ball is played into Olivia Orme who holds the ball up outside the area before laying back into the path of Kristen Hummel central running onto the ball shoots, blasted into the area is blocked by Kelly Ayers for Wymondham.

 Sanders coming forwards again down the wing is tripped a free kick on the right inside the Newmarket half players go forwards as Amber Cantwell stands over the ball, plays it long towards the far post, looks like it might evade everyone then Bethany Fretwell gets a stooping head on the ball, at Hope quickly a yard away does well to get a glove on the ball push it around the post to concede the corner kick. 

  GOAL! The corner delivery from Holloway on the left isn't dealt with, dropping into the centre of the six yard box lands at Sanders feet, fall backwards she stabs the ball in over the line, scrambling to her feet to run away in celebration 0-1 an early lead for the visitors 7 minutes played.

Gemma Sanders pictured scores the opening goal for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Newmarket carry the ball into the Wymondham half, Kirby left in field to Abbi Griffin sends it out right to Smith the crossfield pass up to Nadine Basson in attack doesn't get a good connection with the ball as she shoots from the top of the area, the ball runs harmlessly through to Wymondham goalkeeper Ashleigh O'Callaghan. 

  Wiseman gets hold of the ball inside the Newmarket half dribbles it on looking wriggle her way through the Newmarket defence, the tackle comes in the ball out for a throw left, played into the advancing Cheal-Ferris she whips an early ball into the box, Newmarket captain, Beth Woodfield kicks it clear out of the area is picked up by Cantwell 25 yards out takes on the shot the ball flying straight into Hope the goalkeeper gloves the ball safely to the floor. Wiseman moves to the right supporting Sanders in attack the pair working the ball on Sanders receiving it from Wiseman cuts the ball back along the top of the Newmarket box Alice Collins shoots as the ball arrives at her feet inside the D drives the ball wide.

Laura Wiseman makes it 0-2 to
Wymondham Town Ladies

  GOAL! Wymondham are causing Newmarket all sorts of problems early on moving the ball well the home side struggling to get any meaningful possession inside their opponents half, the ball is won back by Cantwell ion halfway is a quality pass over the top for Wiseman to chase down, winning the race against the Newmarket defence inside the area to hit a left foot strike across the six yard box and into the bottom corner of the net 0-2. The lead doubled inside the opening 15 minutes.



  Moments later Cantwell comes on with the ball again not closed down pulls the trigger in a central position 20 yards out, Hope makes the save punching the ball over her crossbar. From the resulting corner on the left, Fretwell gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box from Holloway's delivery pushes the ball wide of the far post. Wymondham keep coming on with the ball Newmarket pushed deep in their own half can't mount a counter attack.

 GOAL! The clock passes the 20 minute mark and the visitors extend their lead winning a corner on the right, Cheal-Ferris to take the initial ball is dealt with well by Beth Woodfield headed out of the box the ball is retrieved by Fretwell played back out to Cheal-Ferris as players try to get out of the area the ball is lifted in towards the far post, might be dropping in as Hope tries to get across to deal, Sanders rushing in nods the ball over the line to make sure, doesn't get up quite so quickly to celebrate this time as she got as much of the post as she did the ball 0-3. 

  Cantwell brings the ball on over halfway tries to thread the pass through for Wiseman in the middle again, Hummel makes a vital interception at the back to win the ball for Newmarket outside her area. Hope produces another fantastic save to deny Cheal-Ferris as the defender bringing the ball on shoots from the left angling the ball in near post heading for the top corner Hope tips it over her crossbar. More good defending from Newmarket, Orme this time up against Sanders as the ball is sent into the area from Holloway on the left gets in front of Sanders to shield the ball and clear, possession regained by Wymondham's captain Rachel Cossey she shoots from distance but straight down Hope's throat.

Wymondham captain Rachel Cossey wins the battle for the header with Newmarket's, Abbie Marshall

  A rare attack 1st half for Newmarket, Griffin plays the ball up to Basson central holding off her marker releases Smith in the wing attempts the through ball into the box with Abbie Marshall making to run, Ayers inside the box gets there 1st for Wymondham to clear. Ayers forwards to take a throw on the right puts the ball into Wiseman moving to the byline, turning hooks the ball high into the air, a dangerous bounce at the far post Collins ready to turn it in, Hummel gets her boot under it 1st to launch away from danger.

Newmarket Town Ladies, Antonia Smith

  Wymondham having time at the back on the ball work it forwards well players moving into space to receive, Ayers plays the pass inside to Cossey sends the ball on for Wiseman on the shoulder of the Newmarket defence a race for the ball into the area again this time the left foot strike is screwed wide across the face of goal. Wymondham attack down the left side the ball is lifted high in towards the top of the box inside the D, Sanders tries to get to the dropping ball under challenge makes contact more of a deflection than a shot nevertheless the ball loops back up towards goal, Hope on her goal line keeps her eye on it, drops onto the top of the crossbar bounces twice before rolling back onto the roof of the net.

  The ball is won back by Wymondham in midfield played up into the box with Wiseman on the move left, wants the ball to drop over her shoulder then strike it, Hope comes to close the attacker down, does enough to put Wiseman of as she scoops the ball up over the goal beyond. From a corner kick played in by Cheal-Ferris on the right, Fretwell with another stooping header gets under the ball pushes it up over the bar inside the six yard box. Sanders catches Hope accidentally late in the 1st half inside the box as she tries to get in around Woodfield shielding the ball, Hope calls comes sliding in just as Sanders throws a leg around the defender catches the goalkeeper on the ground right of goal, a painful collision but the Newmarket goalkeeper is okay.
   

Half-time Newmarket Town Ladies 0-3 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A dominant 1st half display from Wymondham sees them in control of the tie leading 3-0 keeping better possession of the ball and using the width well, have Newmarket penned back in their own half with Basson isolated on halfway unable to get involved in the game at all to influence things up top. A lot to do at half-time if they are to find any response in the 2nd half.

  A double switch for Newmarket at the start of the 2nd half the wide players Kirby and Smith off with Molly Agnew and Natalia Evangelou coming on. Positional changes too, Evangelou going to right back see's Yasmin Woodfield move inside to centre back, Hummel into midfield with Griffin wide right, Agnew wide left. Evangelou is called into action straight away as Wymondham kick off the 2nd half play the ball to Holloway on the left wing driving forwards, the substitute tackling to put the ball out for a throw in. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbi Griffin

  Straight away Agnew makes an impact on the left for Newmarket driving down the wing cutting inside to evade a tackle curls a cross into the box along the six yard line no one there to turn it goalwards. Wymondham press up the left Cantwell out to Holloway up the wing cuts the ball back to Collins at the top if the area the ball is deflected through to the far post area, Sanders chasing in sees the ball saved by Hope at close range.

 GOAL! 3 minutes into the 2nd half and Newmarket pull a goal back. Jess Linger gets the ball into Hummel takes on the shot 25 yards out puts it straight into O'Callaghan's gloves the keeper kicks the ball out of her area up field, Hummel's wins the challenge for the ball, sends a great ball through the middle for Basson where she's most effective in the opponents box, the defence turned Basson gets to the ball 1st sliding onto it to propel it on past the diving keeper into the back of the net 1-3.

  Sanders running up the right wing with the ball sends the cross along the top of the area looking for Holloway coming inside from the left, Hope coming out to intercept the ball takes it away from the winger, the ball races in quickly to Wiseman inside the D can't get it under her control before both Woodfield's close her down.

  GOAL! Newmarket's joy at pulling a goal back at the start of the 2nd half lasts barely 5 minutes as Wymondham open it back up to 3 goals. Holloway is on the ball allowed to travel along way with it turns inside before firing in a shot from outside the area the ball sailing through the air across the goal to nestle over the line off the far side netting 1-4.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Kayleigh Holloway

  GOAL! 3 minutes later Wymondham go further ahead, are awarded a free-kick on the right halfway inside the Newmarket half. Cantwell on the ball plays a great delivery up towards the near post, Fretwell has had a few chances to bag a goal, gets one to her name as she connects with the ball sliding it under Hope as she dives in vain to stop it crossing the line. 1-5.

Bethany Fretwell with the goal to make it 5 for Wymondham Town Ladies

 Two changes for Wymondham both on the right side bringing of both Ayers and Sanders, Lily Ray and Ella Swift. Wiseman strong as she receives the ball inside the D spins away to her left before reversing the shot across the face of goal just wide at the far post. Ray moving with the ball up the right sends a shot flashing over the bar from the angle. 

 Up the other end Newmarket are pushing on more, Agnew left and Griffin right running at the Wymondham defence with Hummel up the pitch to, passes the ball into the right channel, Basson gets after the ball tries to take it on around Fretwell  the centre back gets back well to time her tackle and regain possession. Wymondham make their 3rd change Cantwell comes off, with Summer Moore coming on into the centre of midfield. 

Newmarket Town Ladies, Abbie Marshall

  Agnew ball at her feet drives forwards an inside run from the left fires the ball into Marshall inside the D, Newcombe squeezes the ball taking it away from the attacker, Basson to the left latches onto the loose ball outside the area her 1st time strike swerves away from the goal wide. Hummel plays the ball long into the box for Basson to give chase, pressures the defence enough to win Newmarket their 1st corner of the game. Swung into the six yard box from the right the ball drops into the six yard box, Hummel lunging for it doesn't make any meaningful contact Wymondham see it cleared up field. Newmarket bring on Sian Tatum for Hummel with around 15 minutes left to play.

  Basson has picked up a knock from the corner is struggling a bit as the ball is won back by her defence played long up to her, 20 yards out Newcombe comes in to close her down, manages to get the ball in towards goal lacks any pace O'Callaghan scoops it up into her gloves. Marshall makes a good run with the ball in the middle for Newmarket has Tatum moving into the box to her right tries to play her in Fretwell closes her down puts the ball out for a throw on the right. 

Nadine Basson with Wymondham's Ella Swift

 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes of the tie, Newmarket with the throw on the right push players on is played up to Tatum top corner of the area not a clean take but helps the ball on towards the top of the area inside the D, Marshall latches onto the ball shoots the ball blocked from 2 yards comes straight back to her takes it on into the area turns to her right Tatum is there instead she back heel the ball straight into Basson behind needing no invitation Basson shoots sends the ball into the bottom corner past the diving O'Callaghan 2-5.

 GOAL! No sooner were Newmarket celebrating a well worked goal then they are hit on the counter attack up the other end Wymondham from the restart getting the ball up field is fired in from the wing taking a deflection runs on to Collins outside the area opens up her body and turns the ball in towards goal into the top corner 2-6.

  Into the last 5 minutes both sides a still looking for a goal, Wiseman still has the legs to carry the ball up the right wing before unleashing a shot sending the ball behind for a goal kick near post. Cossey and Moore in the middle combine to win the ball back a spot of head tennis before pushing it on for Wiseman central, strength on the ball to push her way through the middle before shooting sending the ball over the bar. 

 GOAL! The 90 minutes are virtually up the game stretched late on Newmarket having lost possession in their opponents half, Holloway plays the pass up to Wiseman takes the ball down into the box left of goal pulls the trigger sending the shot across the six yard box and in to make it 2-7.

   One last attack for Newmarket in injury time, Griffin with the energy to bring the ball on down the right wing  swings the ball into the area with Tatum inside running near post, Newcombe gets across her path and brings the ball out of the area. The final whistle blows and Wymondham advance to the next round of the Women's FA Cup.

Full-time Newmarket Town Ladies 2-7 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A strong performance from the visitors played well dominating possession early and having the lead to show for it. Newmarket rallied early 2nd half the changes having an impact, took their 2 goals well. Just didn't keep it at 3-1 long enough in the 2nd half Wymondham hammering home their advantage with 2 more quick goals. Scoring 7 goals have a feeling not too many will want to be drawn against them in the next round. 

  Good to see both sides in action, thanks to both clubs for their help today, had great entertainment in my 1st 2 Women's FA Cup games this season looking forwards to the next round. The draw if it follows form should be on Monday.

*Updated* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has been made and it will be a repeat of last seasons tie with Wymondham Town Ladies, travelling to play Cambridge United WFC this time around, both sides have strengthened since that game. The tie is scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.

Match Report - Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies

  Football from the Women's FA Cup on the Supporting Women's Football Blog, some 80 ties drawn for 2nd Round Qualifying of this season's competition with a total of 254 clubs being accepted in total to compete. This weekends action get's started on Saturday an evening kick-off for Bishops Stortford Ladies v Bungay Town Ladies, the venue for the tie, Bishops Stortford Community FC's, ProKit (UK) Stadium.

  Bishops Stortford Ladies are new entrants to the Women's FA Cup this season which sees an increased prize fund for all rounds this year, still a pale drop in the ocean but progress nevertheless £450 for the winning side and of course the ultimate prize is a final at Wembley Stadium. Compete in Beds & Herts Women's Division One having been promoted rapidly through the 3 divisions since the current set-up was formed 5 years ago. Finished 4th in the league last season. Have a strong youth set-up with teams from U12 through to U18 competing several of their starting line-up tonight having been with the club all the way through the youth sides.

  An exciting opportunity for the ladies side to play at the men's ProKit (UK) Stadium, Bishops Stortford Community FC compete in the Conference South. The season has barely started in the Beds & Herts Women's League and Bishops Stortford Ladies didn't play in the opening round of fixtures tonight's Women's FA Cup tie being their 1st competitive game of the season. 

  Bungay Town Ladies are the visitors today this their 3rd year in the Women's FA Cup after a 2 season absence are looking for advance in the competition for the 1st time. Competing in Norfolk Women's Division One an established side in the league played their 1st league game of the season last weekend. With strong support form the men's club that run a number of youth teams for both boys and girls. 

  From a personal point of view running Women's Football East, I'm always intrigued to see how the various leagues across the region match up and the Women's FA Cup provides a great opportunity to see sides comes together in competition. The FA Cup whether it's the men's or women's game captures the imagination players and fans alike.

  Bishops Stortford Community FC's ProKit (UK) Stadium is just off the M11 behind the Birchanger Motorway Services a regular stop off for myself on the way home from London after a women's football game to write up a match report. The stadium is at the end of an industrial estate on the way into Bishops Stortford itself. A large carpark the stadium boasts great facilities a large bar and clubhouse, refreshment booths for hot food and drink a good sized main stand overlooking the dugouts. a smaller seated stand far side. A quality playing surface nice and flat, plenty of grass cover both sides looking forwards to playing on it. Well summer has come to an end had to happen sometime had a long run the heavy rain on Friday bringing in an autumn feel to the evening cool with a misty drizzle blowing across the pitch as the two sides walked out of the tunnel. 

  Bishops Stortford Ladies starting XI - Sophie Parslow, Sophie Cook, Louise Crocker, Natasha Atkinson, Chloe Haken (C), Megan Kenny, Jess Croney, Yasmin Smith, Samantha Tant, Brogan McHale & Kathryn Stanley.
  subs - Jess Mace, Andreia Messias, Lauren Maynard, Natasha Coppin & Ashley Johnston

  Bungay Town Ladies starting XI - Ruth Smart, Kelly Collins (C), Lois Nethersell-Webb, Charlotte Power, Annie Piper, Ella Hindley, Inna Marx, Rebecca Carver, Lauren Purling, Emily Leach & Lacey Andrews.
  subs - Emily Coe, Sian Carter, Megan Vincent, Nicola Hazel & Jordan Duke.

  Two sides who are used to playing roll on roll of substitutes in their respective county leagues the rules change in the Women's FA Cup, 5 substitutes can be named on the bench of which only 3 can be used. Bishops Stortford to get this 2nd Round Qualifying tie underway taking kick-off 1st half wearing blue and white vertical striped shirts, blue shorts and socks with Bungay lined up opposite wearing sky blue shirts, black shorts and socks. 

*Team captains Kelly Collins & Chloe Haken with tonight's officials

    An early ball from midfielder Megan Kenny for Bishops Stortford out to Yasmin Smith attacking down the left wing looks to knock the ball on down the line, Bungay captain, Kelly Collins at right back gets across her to make the tackle put the ball out for a throw. Winning the ball back in their own half Bungay play the ball long up to striker Lacey Andrews on half way spins away to the right same result as Lauren Crocker puts the tackle in conceding the throw, taken quickly Bungay's Lauren Purling takes the ball down the the wing before whipping a high cross into the Bishops Stortford six yard box, goalkeeper Sophie Parslow palms the ball down cleanly the sets up a quick counter kicking the ball long out of her area helped in in the middle striker Brogan McHale latches onto the ball driving forwards shoots early from outside the box, Bungay goalkeeper, Ruth Smart gathers the shot.

  A spell of possession on the right inside the Bungay half for Bishops Stortford brings them the 1st corner of the match. The ball is lifted high in towards the near post, helped on falls to captain Sophie Haken waiting far post looks to hit the ball back across the goal face, her shot blocked the rebound runs to Crocker top of the area she shoots same result, Bungay block. Samantha Tant receives the ball on the right wing drives towards the top of the area before spinning wide again to avoid a tackle down the line wins a corner. A strong punch from Smart this time coming through bodies at the near post to clear for Bungay.

   Bishops Stortford doing well early on, have a free kick on half way, Smith over the ball sends it up towards the Bungay box, Inna Marx heads the ball away for Bungay, Smith with another opportunity to swing the ball into the area comes in high, McHale tries to bring it under control, before she can is closed down by the visitors defence. Breaking up the left side Rebecca Carver sends the ball on down the wig for Andrews strong running to get into the area with the ball slips on the slick surface as she goes to shoot.

  The game is starting to even out a little more, Bungay finding room for their midfielders, Marx and Ella Hindley to get on the ball spread the play with Andrews moving all the way across the back line, Marx sending her away on the left, Natasha Atkinson gets back to pressure her run, Purling coming across to the near post to support the corner is conceded. Bungay have two opportunities to play the ball into the area from the corner the 1st cleared for a 2nd corner, this one drops amongst the bodies congregating near post the ball is turned wide of the post, a goal kick is awarded.

 GOAL! The visitors take the lead on the 20th minute. Purling running with the ball down the right wing plays the ball into Andrews inside the box right of goal brings the ball down, quickly closed down to way to turn and release a shot instead plays the ball across the area with Carver free just outside the area, hits a low strike with pace towards goal zipping along the wet surface, Parslow sees it late her dive in vain as the ball rolls in at the near post 0-1.

*Rebecca Carver with the opening goal for Bungay Town Ladies

  Corner for Bishops Stortford soon after the restart the ball is played up towards the face of the box too high for Crocker, Atkinson beyond her can't control, but manages to help it on for Haken stretching for the ball sends a high ball wide across the face of goal. End to end no sooner has Purling reaching the byline on the right for Bungay put her cross behind goal then then the home side break, Kathryn Stanley getting hold of the ball and passing it out to the left with Smith looking to get in behind, Bungay's Charlotte Power getting across to play the ball out for the throw. 

  Power in the middle at centre back is on hand twice in quick succession as Stanley coming a little deeper to receive the ball tries to put McHale in through the middle, Power intercepting on both occasions. It's Power's centre back partner, Annie Piper who gets across to deal with Stanley then as she picks up the ball from Jess Croney and turning drives into the box on the left. Bungay pushing towards the Bishops Stortford box lose the ball Atkinson clearing it along way up field, Smith after it gets away down the left into the box hits the ball hard across the six yard box, her cross/shot going wide McHale racing in far post unable to turn it home. McHale with a shot from 25 yards out in a central position the ball played through the middle from a goal kick, turns and unleashes the shot the ball screws away from goal. 

*Bungay Town Ladies, Charlotte Power

  Marx over a free kick wide on the right for Bungay plays it up towards the box headed clear, Hindley wins it back passes to Purling on the right sends her cross high into the area far post Andrews hooks it back into the middle, Emily leach back to goal looks to bring the ball down, Sophie Cook closes her down, tackling to send the ball clear of the box. Croney plays the ball up to Stanley putting her clear on the left, charging towards the box checks her run coming inside to shoot, looks to curl the ball into the top corner, not enough height on the ball is taken cleanly by Smart.

  Both sides using the full width of the pitch enjoying to slick surface the ball moving from one end to the other, McHale has been back helping her defence, breaks forwards now a burst of pace seeing her get ahead of the Bungay defence lets fly from outside the box the ball runs wide of goal. Bungay get up the other end see a goal chalked off for offside, Lois Nethersell-Webb playing it on up the left for Carver the ball whipped in across the six yard box is turned in won't count. 

  Marx is over another Bungay free kick inside the Bishops Stortford half plays the ball in from the right, cleared from the area, Hindley rolls it back to Marx tries again plays the ball towards the far post area, Leach is their headers the ball but can't direct it on target. Bishops Stortford attack down the right as the 1st half draws to a close , McHale and Tant link up the latter tries to play Stanley through into the box, Power cuts out the pass her clearance going to Cook, sends a diagonal ball into the area with Smith looking to get in behind everyone, Smart is able to claim it before she can reach it.

Half-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 0-1 Bungay Town Ladies

  A narrow advantage to Bungay at the break, has been a fast paced 1st half both sides working the ball up the wings using the whole pitch with neither overly testing the opponents goal. A lot of energy has been put in the 1st 45 minutes. One goal in it still all to play for 2nd half. No chances at the start of the 2nd half Bungay to kick-off.

 Early opportunity for Andrews to have a strike on goal, the ball played into her in a central position from the right, given time to turn hits the strike from 30 yards out runs wide across the area. Parslow reacts sharply inside her box with Bungay pressing on the right Purling lifts the ball up into the area, Andrews after it the keeper drops to smother the ball right side of her. Bungay win a corner on the right, goes long to Andrews drives the ball in towards goal is cleared back out to Marx puts the ball back in to the near post comes to Leach catches her a little flat footed prods the ball wide.

*Lacey Andrews attacking for Bungay Town Ladies

   Bungay applying alot of pressure at the start of the 2nd half are camped in the Bishops Stortford half on the right have a throw the ball with Marx passes to Andrews outside the area to the right of goal, unleashes a shot blasts the ball wide. Purling takes the ball down the right, cutting it back inside, Andrews that side inside the box misses her kick the ball runs on through to Carver left of the D outside the box this time her shot fizzed in low is the wrong side of the post. 

  Carver receiving the ball from Nethersell-Webb carries it down the left before squaring across the top of the area looking to pick out Andrews, the Bishops Stortford defence cut it out the clearance rolls straight into Leach 25 yards out central shifts the ball then shoots the ball going a foot over the crossbar. A chance to relief the pressure for Bishops Stortford as they have a free kick on half-way, Croney to put the ball up towards the area, Piper heads clear, the ball is sent on up to Andrews through the middle goes on her own lets fly from 25 yards out the shot racing wide past the right post.

  Andrews is proving a real handful for the Bishops Stortford defence to deal with moving all over the place to receive the ball, tries to take the ball on down the left, Atkinson gets across tackles well to regain the ball then is fouled by Andrews as she goes to clear it. Hesitation at the back presents a chance for McHale as she robs Marx of the ball attempting a shot pass to Nethersell-Webb getting in behind the defense into the box right flashes her shot wide across the six yard box. 

  Picking up the ball in the middle, Stanley with a clever twist, looks to have gotten away from Power at the back charging towards the box through the middle, Smart comes to close her down, Power recovers well to lunge in and push the ball way from the striker with her right boot playing it behind for corner. From the right 2 corners are put behind by Bungay at the near post the 3rd one going long runs to McHale top of the area, the ball is taken off her toe just as she goes to hit the shot.

  Tant gives Stanley the ball on the left inside the Bungay half, the Bishops Stortford attacker taking on the Bungay defence drives inside in towards the D runs it on to McHale as she is closed down, under challenge McHale squeezes a shot away the ball is blocked the rebound back with McHale, lifts the ball up across the area towards Tant at the far post six yards out headers the ball over the bar. Bishops Stortford make their 1st change Ashley Johnston coming on for Cook.

  GOAL! Bungay hit Bishops Stortford on the counter attack the ball played long towards Andrews moving into the box from the right, Parslow comes rushing out towards the attacker, Andrews goes wide then sends her shot in low across the advancing keeper and into the back of the net 0-2.

Lacey Andrews

  Andrews with another opportunity to attack a forwards pass as Marx and Carver link up the ball up the left Andrews closed down as she reaches the top of the area gets a shot away with the outside of her boot gets the shot on target, Parslow palms it down and gathers in the centre of her goal. Marx tackles to win the ball in the middle stabs it forwards into Leach holds it up well central to goal, turns and squeezes a shot away, Parslow throws herself to her left, the ball runs narrowly wide. 

  Crocker gets forwards from the back for Bishops Stortford plays the ball long into the box left side with Tant making the run hits her on the back, dropping down into the area, Tant goes after it inside, her shot charged down as Nethersell-Webb comes across quickly to block. Natasha Coppin comes on for Bishops Stortford replacing Kenny. The substitute given the ball wide left in attack whips a cross in towards the near post, Stanley can't bring it down under control before Piper tackles to win possession back for Bungay. Not long after piper indicates she needs to be subbed, Bungay send on Sian Carter. 

Kathryn Stanley

 GOAL! Into the last 10 minutes and Bishops Stortford set up a tense finish to this Women's FA Cup tie as they pull a goal back. Croney with the ball in the middle passes to Stanley ahead of her has the legs to beat Nethersell-Webb racing towards the edge of the area shots sending the ball up and over the keeper into the back of the net 1-2.


  The goal has lifted Bishops Stortford they press on the left, force Bungay back the visitors pull everyone back to defend their advantage with less than 5 minutes left.

 GOAL! The visitors relieve the pressure get the ball out into the centre then send it long into the left for Andrews to chase, Haken goes with her tries to marshal the ball out for the goal kick, Andrews gets round her getting her toe on the ball back up the line fires the ball in towards the top of the area, Leach is there picks up the ball strong as she drives into the area, 3 defenders ahead of her blasts a shot in deflects to the left rolling favourably for Andrews coming inside, opens up her body to curl the ball in towards goal looping over the keeper and in 1-3.

 Not much time left in the game Bishops Stortford press forwards win a corner on the right, played long to Crocker outside the box can't keep her long range shot down. Andrews after a hat-trick spins and hits a shot central 20 yards out, Crocker blocks it at the back the ball spinning away for the corner. Played in high at the near post Leach rises her glancing header sends the ball on, Johnston gets her head on it behind plays the ball to her goalkeeper. No more time left the referee blows the final whistle and Bungay Town Ladies celebrate the win.

Full-time Bishops Stortford Ladies 1-3 Bungay Town Ladies

  An entertaining Women's FA Cup tie watched by a decent sized crowd of around 150. Saw a fast paced game both sides enjoying the playing surface. An even 1st half Bungay edging it came out the stronger 2nd half stretching Bishops Stortford, Andrews up top moving all across the back line hard to mark a constant outlet for Bungay. The home side pulling it back to 2-1 late on setting up a tense finish before Bungay restored their 2 goal cushion, the magic of the cup. 

  My thanks to everyone at Bishops Stortford Football Club for their help today hopefully the ladies will get to play more games there in the future. Thanks to Graham Purling to for helping me with Bungay's squad details. Best of luck Bungay Town Ladies in the next round.

*additional photo's courtesy of Ashleigh from Bungay Town Ladies.

*Update* The draw for 3rd Round Qualifying has now been made and Bungay Town Ladies will be at home to Acle United Ladies. The game scheduled to be played Sunday 9th October.

Match Report - Charlton Athletic Women v Newcastle United WFC

 This Sunday it's the FA Women's Cup 3rd Round Proper. The draw had thrown up 14 very tasty looking ties, this is the round where the FAWSL 2 sides enter the competition. There was one tie that jumped out at me when the draw was made an opportunity to see two sides I have wanted to see play for some time so this tie was perfect, Charlton Athletic Women v Newcastle United WFC.

   Both sides compete in the FAWPL National Division's, Charlton Athletic Women in the Southern and Newcastle United WFC in the Northern. The FAWPL Northern and Southern Division sides entered the FA Women's Cup in the previous round. 

   Charlton Athletic Women won big, beating fellow Southern Division side Plymouth Argyle Ladies on home soil. Are riding high in the league in 3rd place several points behind current leaders Brighton & Hove Albion WFC but do have 3 games in hand. Have a potent strike force in Kit Graham and Gemma Shepherd who have both scored over 20 goals already this season.

  Newcastle United WFC were on home soil too in the previous round taking on Mossley Hill Ladies from the FAWPL Northern Division One, beat them 4-1 to advance to the 3rd Round Proper. Lay in 8th spot in the FAWPL Northern Division. Reached the semi-finals of the FAWPL League Plate travelling down south last Sunday to take on Gillingham FC Ladies won 3-0 a result that will give them confidence as they make the journey south again this Sunday.

   My 1st trip to Sporting Club Thamesmead and although I knew the way I wanted to go, my Sat Nav had a different approach so I decided to follow it, I didn't know there was a Woolwich Free Ferry across the River Thames until I drove onto it! Had I not had to wait for the ferry it would have been the quickest way, but going home the Sat Nav will be staying off. 

  Sporting Club Thamesmead is a nice recently renovated sporting complex, featuring a good sized carpark that was packed as the ground was a buzz with various other matches already taking place, a 3G pitch behind the main pitch and in between a smart clubhouse with bar and eating facilities upstairs leading down into the main stand. The pitch looked in good condition sees alot of action and despite the recent rain looked firm and drained. With the sun in my eyes I retreated to the opposite side to watch the match, few dark clouds about it was possible we'd get a shower and promptly did as soon as the two sides lined up for kick-off.

  Charlton Athletic Women starting XI - Megen Lynch, Katie Flack, Rosie Paye, Grace Coombs, Samantha Pittuck, Kimberley Dixson (C), Jenny Newman, Ellie Baxter, Nikita Whinnett, Kit Graham & Gemma Shepherd.
  subs - Stefanie Simmons, Charley Clifford, Amy Howlett & Ruby Southgate.

  Newcastle United WFC starting XI - Alison, Cowling, Megan McKenzie, Jessica Foster, Kate Brooks, Jessica Havelock (C), Alisha Smith, Ellen Turnbull, Millie Lambert, Elle Dobson, Bethanie Gardner & Emma Hewitt.
  subs - Emily Ellis, Laura Robson, Abbie Stevens, Danikka Purdham & Jade Anderson.

It's the home side Charlton to kick off this FA Women's Cup tie, are lined up in red shirts with white across the front and sleeves, red shorts and red and white hooped socks, with Newcastle kitted out in their traditional black and white vertical striped shirts black shorts and black socks with a blue band at the top. No sooner had the game got underway then it started raining the wind blowing it across the pitch, retreating to the opposite side had been a good idea as their was a high fence that offered some protection but two minutes later and it was gone a rainbow appearing above the stadium.

   GOAL! The heavy but brief cloudburst over, Charlton were about to inflict their own upon Newcastle. Having tested out the left flank early on and got no joy from Newcastle full back Jessica Foster the ball is back with their defence Grace Coombs plays the ball into Kit Graham in the centre circle the Newcastle defence is pushed up on halfway, Graham carries the ball into their half with strike partner Gemma Shepherd peeling away to her left she plays the ball forwards, releasing Shepherd in for a run at their opponents box left of the goal, Newcastle goalkeeper, Alison Cowling comes out, Shepherd pulls the trigger 20 yards out sending the ball past her as she dives in vain and puts Charlton 1-0 up with just 4 minutes on the clock.

  Newcastle look to respond straight from the restart, Millie Lambert playing the ball out to the right wing for Ellen Turnbull, showing good strength on the ball she takes the ball down to the byline wins her side a corner kick, the ball from the right is good into the middle of the six yard box, it's a Charlton head that gets it away for a throw.

   GOAL! 6 minutes on the clock and Charlton race into a 2 goal lead, pushing players forwards Jenny Newman plays the ball into Shepherd 30 yards out on the right side she sends her pass into the feet of Graham ahead of her and is immediately on the move looking to get into a central position as Graham holds the ball up right of the area, returns it to Shepherd who opens her body up to lift the ball up and around the keeper into the back of the net from the edge of the area 2-0.

  Fantastic start from Charlton going 2 nil up inside the opening 10 minutes players are looking to get in on the action all over the park as Coombs carries the ball out of defence is allowed to cover a lot of grass with it before sending it out wide left for Nikita Whinnett to chase down, surges into the box, Newcastle's Emma Hewitt has tracked all the way back and slides in with a perfectly timed challenge to win the ball. The match is being played at a high tempo, Charlton keep possession down that end from the resulting throw the ball is put into Shepherd inside the D she looks to hit it 1st time shouts for handball as it strikes Newcastle captain, Jessica Havelock's arm, did hit her elbow but looked accidental, nothing given. 

Newcastle United WFC's, Emma Hewitt looking to attack

  GOAL! Not so moments later this time Havelock does handle the ball her hands raised inside the box as Charlton building up a head of steam push forwards down the left side the ball is fed into Graham outside the box looks to lift it over the defence in front of her, the handball is spotted and the referee points to the spot. Shepherd steps up to take on a hat-trick with just 15 minutes on the clock, cool as you like sends the goalkeeper the wrong way 3-0. 

A hat-trick in the opening 15 minutes for Charlton's Gemma Shepherd

3 down in the opening 15 minutes has left Newcastle rattled, have more defending to do as a free kick is conceded wide on the right 30 yards out, Coombs over the ball lifts it in towards the far post, Havelock calls for it and with a fir header gets the ball away for a throw. The Newcastle captain with the ball at her feet brings it out from the back a powerful run is challenged until she reaches the edge of the Charlton area, left of the D looks to come inside for the shot, Hewitt there for the lay off, Charlton close both down get the ball up the other end.

  Winning a free kick inside their own half Newcastle play the ball long the target Hewitt, 25 yards out turns her header into the run made by Lambert on the right closing in on the area her shot is blocked and close range by Katie Flack the ball spinning away for a corner kick. The set piece from the right is aimed towards Havelock 10 yards out coming for it near post, looks to hit her shot on the turn, just too many bodies to get through. 

   With Newcastle pushing forwards trying to get themselves back into the match they are vulnerable to the counter, Graham is the player who springs the offside trap is through centrally for a run at goal. Cowling comes running out to the edge of her area, Graham looks to shoot send a right foot shot low past her, the Newcastle goalkeeper gets down throws out a glove making firm contact with the ball, isn't safe rolls out to the right, Newman is bearing down upon it looks to hit it 1st time across goal Shepherd has covered alot of ground on the left can't quite turn it home as she throws herself at it, wouldn't have counted if she had as the linesman has his flag up.

   Haven't mentioned Charlton captain Kimberley Dixson yet, however she is playing a huge role in the game, breaking up play in the middle preventing Newcastle getting much going from back to front as the home side look to be quick to close everyone down. Turnbull comes back into the centre to get her foot on the ball plays a pass forwards for Hewitt, who lets it run on for Bethanie Gardner coming in from the left side behind her outside the D, Gardner can't find away through, Coombs or her centre back partner Samantha Puttuck lays the ball back for Lambert racing in 20 yards out hits it hard no way through the shot is blocked. 

  GOAL! Shepherd has definitely got her shooting boots on today as she nets Charlton's 4th on the half an hour mark. The Charlton strike force links up again with Shepherd coming out to the left the receive the ball just over halfway passes it into Graham ahead of her, Graham looks to take the ball on, gets caught up under her feet for a moment, this actually benefits her as the Newcastle defence are drawn to close her down, Shepherd has raced beyond to her left Graham gets the ball through to her for a run at goal, Cowling starts to come but Shepherd takes the shot on sending the ball across her and into the back of the net 4-0.

  Charlton continue to attack, Newcastle's, Lambert has done alot of tracking back tackles well winning the ball from Whinnett 20 yards out as she looks to set her sights on a shot coming in from the left. 

  GOAL! 37 minutes gone and Charlton make it 5! This time though Shepherd is no where to be seen as Kit Graham gets her name on the score-sheet. Newcastle are attacking the ball is won back played through the centre comes into the feet of Graham on the edge of the box back to goal no one closes her down as she turns and hits it hard and low past the keeper into the back of the net 5-0.

Charlton Athletic Women's
Kit Graham 

   Megen Lynch in the Charlton goal has had little to trouble her, the defence in front of her putting in the blocks not letting Newcastle in behind. Is needed to make a save her positioning spot in as Newcastle's Lambert does get one on target from distance the ball rolling back to her 30 yards out a good connection the ball is rising, Lynch see's it all the way. Havelock with another storming run out from the back pushes her way deep into Charlton territory 25 yards out puts everything into the shot Coombs' gets her bottom in the way makes the block.

   GOAL! A minute left to play in the 1st half Shepherd and Graham combine again, the former the provider this time as she plays the ball through for Graham, Cowling starts to come has no chance as Graham lifts the ball over her to fill the empty net beyond 6-0. This I understand is Kit Graham's 100th goal for Charlton in all competitions so I happily add my congratulations to those she has already received. 

Half-time Charlton Athletic Women 6-0 Newcastle United WFC

 Well I'm probably as shell-shocked as Newcastle United WFC are sitting in their dressing room at half-time was not expecting quite such a dominant display from the home side. Charlton have been excellent, clinical and determined have created the chances and converted them to put themselves well in control of this FA Women's Cup tie with another 45 minutes to play. 

   Newcastle get the 2nd half underway, put the ball long from the whistle, Charlton make a mess of clearing it falls favourably for Lambert 25 yards out, is not afraid to have a strike on goal, does so sends it in low doesn't have the pace to worry Lynch who drops and holds.

 GOAL! Charlton start the 2nd half where they left off the 1st score again to make it 7 and it's Graham with her hat-trick now, (take away half-time and it's quicker than Shepherd's too). The ball is played long the Newcastle defence struggle to clear falls Graham unmarked on the right corner of the area takes on the early shot looping the ball up and over Cowling into the goal beyond 7-0, 47 minutes on the clock.

  Newcastle make a change Kate Brooks coming off for Abbie Stevens. Charlton win a free kick wide on the level, Dixson is over the ball, fires in a great delivery cutting through the six yard box, Shepherd coming in throws herself at it, there is a touch off her of the defender trying to track her run the ball is deflected wide off who I'm not sure a goal kick is awarded she has to go down as a Shepherd miss.

Abbie Stevens on the ball for Newcastle United WFC

   Charlton are pressing hard at the start of the 2nd half looking for more goals, Whinnett is covering the ground on the right flank taking the ball down wing has both Graham and Shepherd breaking into the box wanting the cross she looks to sweep it in, Cowling has come to her near post gets in front of both Charlton strikers and claims the ball. 

  GOAL! Charlton get their 8th. The attack starting with Ellie Baxter in the centre of midfield a fantastic ball into the right channel to release Whinnett for a run into the area is closing down on Cowling covering her near post, could shoot but has Shepherd to her left unmarked lifts the ball into her and Shepherd lifts a leg high to turn the ball into the net 8-0.

  Whinnett blasts a shot high and wide as Charlton continue to attack, Dixson plays the ball forwards into Shepherd, she puts Graham through on goal, Cowling stays back on her line this time defenders close Graham down she lays the ball back to Whinnett coming in from the right inside the box her 1st time shot is off target. Last action of the tie for Whinnett as she is replaced by ex Ipswich Town Ladies player, Amy Howlett. 

  Newcastle's Turnbull manages to stay onside as Foster brings the ball out from the back spinning off her marker inside the D, Turnbull is moving away from goal manages to hook a shot back in towards goal, goes straight into Lynch's gloves. The goalkeeper set's up a rapid counter move the ball worked up the right quickly into Howlett her cross evades Cowling covering her near post rolls across the face of goal Newman lunges trying to turn it home at the far stick, misses. That's Newman's last action of the tie as she comes off for Stefanie Simmons.

Newcastle United WFC's, Jessica Foster

  GOAL! Super sub! Charlton make it 9! Simmons the scorer. Charlton have possession around the Newcastle area win a throw... (the rest of the build up I miss I'm trying to change the batteries on my camera) look up see the ball dropping for Simmons outside the box hits it on the volley smashes against the goal frame and over the line, I'm looking forwards to seeing this one on the highlights as everyone else 9-0.

   Cowling has found herself caught one on one several times in the tie is exposed again as Shepherd whips a ball over the top to send Howlett away on the right, reading the move, Cowling makes the decision to come early goes in on Howlett as she enters the box gets her legs on the ball 1st it loops past her Howlett stumbling tries to retrieve before it runs out of play but can't.  Final change for Charlton as Ruby Southgate comes on at right back replacing Rosie Paye with 25 minutes left to play.

  Gardner finds herself the furthest forwards for Newcastle in front of the D, Dobson plays the ball into her feet shows good hold up play with Turnbull making the run for her into the box on the left slides the pass into her, goes to shot the effort blocked by the newly introduced Southgate. Gardner comes off for Newcastle, Laura Robson coming on.

  Cowling with the best save of the match to deny Simmons as Charlton counter through the middle Graham given the ball rolling her marker and releasing Howlett on the right side Simmons makes the run far post, Howlett sweeps the cross in picks her out Simmons looks to shot on the volley play the ball over Cowling is on target, the Newcastle keeper throws herself backwards gloves the ball over the bar for a corner kick. Final change for Newcastle, McKenzie coming off, Emily Ellis coming on at right back. 

  GOAL! Couldn't be more crueller as Newcastle concede a 10th an own goal. Graham puts Shephard through on goal on the right into the box, Simmons is available far post, with the keeper caught between both, Ellis tries to intercept the cross ends up turning the ball into her net 10-0. 

  Charlton come again with Howlett carrying the ball down the right channel lofts a high cross in for Graham to attack closing in on the near post, gets a boot up to meet the ball try to hook it around Cowling the keeper gets as glove on it and falling claims at the 2nd attempt with good shielding from Ellis. Flack finds herself up with the attack for Charlton late on the ball falls favourably for her she bursts into the box  tires to lift it over Cowling the keeper gets a glove to the ball falls loose but Shepherd closest can't pounce before Havelock clears.

   Newcastle throw players forwards trying to get at least a consolation goal out of the tie Turnbull and Hewitt link up to good effect outside the box with Charlton sitting off them Hewitt getting the ball into Dobson right of goal 8 yards out she shoots the ball is palmed away by Lynch before her defence clears. 

  Cowling tips another Charlton shot over her bar late in the game as Simmons takes on the shot from distance. The 1st corner is headed behind for another corner the 2nd is planted near post a spot of head tennis ensues before the ball drops behind for a 3rd corner. This one is swept in centrally under the bar, Cowling looks to try and punch it over ended up going in however the referee awards a free kick against Charlton for fouling the keeper. 

  The final whistle blows and Charlton Athletic Women win the match 10-0 with a dominant display to reach the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women's Cup and based on this display no one will want to pull them out of the hat come the draw on Monday. Were clinical in front of goal and the early lead had them in a strong position for the whole 90 minutes.

  Certainly wasn't expecting to see a 10-0 today, haven't seen one for a while, but Charlton Athletic Women were by far the better side today. Sure Newcastle aren't a side that get's rolled over like that too often showed in patches what they can do just weren't able to settle on the ball the early goals certainly had them on the back foot, you can only look to put it right next game.

  Best of luck to Charlton Athletic Women in the next round, enjoyed my 1st trip to Sporting Club Thamesmead. 

  UPDATE : The draw for the 4th Round Proper of the FA Women's Cup was made earlier and Charlton Athletic Women will face North East opposition again this time on the road taking on FAWSL 2 side Durham FC Women, tie scheduled for Sun 28th Febuary.