This weekend was host to the Women's FA Cup 3rd round, 16 ties with the newly formed WSL 2 teams entering the competition. The weather as it had for the whole of January would cause disruption and postponements were envitable as another wave of rain swept across the UK. Indeed some 2nd round ties had yet to be completed such has been the problem. Had had my eye on one particular tie since the draw was made but when that fell foul to the weather I certainly had several more facinating ties to choose from.
Leaving Norfolk, Aston Villa LFC v Doncaster Rovers Belles was the game I headed for one of three all WSL 2 ties in the 3rd round. Would be an interesting game an early look at two of the teams in this new league. A run in the cup for either side would give them a great advantage in terms of momentum going into the up coming league campaign. Doncaster Rovers Belles of course I know well from watching them in their 3 year stint in the newly created WSL before their 'relegation' to the new 2nd teir. They have despite the huge movement of players within the WSL managed to keep their squad together and of late added to it. My knowledge of Aston Villa LFC is limited this would be my 1st time seeing them play they are the current League Cup holders and I was impressed by their midfield player Sherry McCue at last years U19 championships in Wales.
Aston Villa LFC's home ground is in Sutton Coldfield at Coles Lane. Not too bad a run from Norfolk. Coles Lane is a nice stadium has a 3g pitch, can park at the ground, has a bar and refreshments, (music to my ears) a ground that can serve me up a cheeseburger after a long drive is always going to win me over plus a cup of tea.... mind you I should have paid to get in first... drove straight past the ticket office... know better next time... I duly hastened over to the ticket office and confessed my sins... PAID UP.. and was all set for the game.
There was a little rain about, but the ground had covered areas to stand and with the pitch being 3g this wouldn't cause too many problems. Know the Doncaster squad knew it was a strong starting line up albeit without the suspended Leandra Little. This saw Sue Smith as captain as Doncaster lining up in yellow tops and socks with blue shorts as Aston Villa in their claret and blue shirts and socks with white shorts kicked off. The opening exhanges were fairly even as both teams found their way into the match Aston Villa were commiting a fair amount of fouls in the middle of the park, but the middle 1/3 was heavily congested with both teams defending a very high line, looking to spring the off side trap but by trying to play the ball through rather than over the top most of the time a defender intercepted the intended pass.
Doncaster were looking to get the ball out to Sue Smith on the right with both Naomi Chadwick and Jess Sigsworth looked to support. It was Chadwick with the 1st real chance as she recieved the ball on the left hand corner of the box fired a looping shot goal wards beating the Aston Villa keeper Leach but landing the wrong side of the post wide. Doncaster were on top during this period another cross saw Beth England head the ball down but straight into Leach's arms. Aston Villa were getting pulled across the pitch to deal with Sue Smith left space on the left but Doncaster failed to exploit it on a number of occasions.
Aston Villa persisted on trying to get the ball through Doncaster's back line, McCue was all over the pitch working hard made a run that found her the furthest forwards the pass found her head but she could only direct it tamely into the hands of Doncaster keeper Nicola Hobbs who had had very little to do until late in the half with chances on the low side the 1st half ended in stalemate 0-0.
The 2nd half started with Doncaster on the offensive once again Sue Smith the player causing Aston Villa the problems seen it before, cheered when she was at Lincoln as she did it to the opposing team and dispaired when she did the same to Lincoln. Got the ball drove into the box and was brought down.. penalty. Up stepped Victoria Williams to take 1-0 as the ball brushed past the diving Leach's fingertips. Aston Villa felt aggrieved it was a physical encounter had a player booked for a foul on Cunningham. Sue Smith had another run at Aston Villa's penalty box took the shot deflected off a defender into the path of Beth England who controlled quickly and fired it home to make it 2-0.
Aston Villa made a change brought on Sarah Mayling to the right side of attack to try and regain the initiative, soon after coming on Mayling had a run on her marker struck the ball from the edge of the box but keeper Hobbs was well positioned to gather. Soon after the battling McCue went down under a challenge in the middle of the park and had to be carried off, an ambulance arrived shortly afterwards nothing we like to see and I hope that it was just a precaution and nothing too serious.
Sue Smith found Millie Bright in an advanced position fed the ball out to her on the right played a one, two Bright's cross almost finding England only for Leach to claim the ball.
Sigsworth was brought down in the box a 50/50 decision the ref waved it away the ball was lose in the box however and as Sue Smith tried to claim it she was tripped and this time the penalty was given. Up stepped William's but this attempt was launched against the bar clattered down with Sue Smith heading the ball back goalwards Leach grabbed it to prevent it going over her.
Aston Villa were getting some joy down both flanks late on Mayling had a similar attempt to her 1st collected by Hobbs once again then she had to dive to her right quickly to keep out a stinging long range drive from the left, the resulting corner was a little chaotic as pinballing between players Doncaster got it clear and claim a 2-0 victory a morale boosting win and advance to the 4th round of the FA Cup. Always good to start the season with a win. I liked my 1st trip to Coles Lane and look forwards to seeing more of both Aston Villa and Doncaster Rovers Belles in action once WSL 2 begins.
A fan of the sport doing my small part to help promote the women's game
Sunday, 9 February 2014
Sunday, 2 February 2014
Match Report QPR LFC v MK Dons LFC South East Combination League
I've attended plenty of matches in the South East Combination League this season and have seen some very competitive and entertaining matches. I've always had an eye on this league in the past as it is where the East Anglia teams operate such as Norwich City Ladies and Cambridge WFC and certainly in the past few seasons one team has usually dominated the league and won promotion easily a notable example being Lewes Ladies a couple of seasons back. This season however the league has several teams battling for top spot.
No less than 4 teams going into the weekend were well placed for a title challenge.
C&K Basildon have been the early pace setters newly promoted and on the back of successive promotions the winning habit is something that you can carry with you to a new league. I have seen them play a couple of times, play the ball well, short passes but progressive in build up with plenty of attack minded players and in both the games I've seen the ability to conjure up a goal when it has been needed.
2nd place going into the weekend and the team I personally had as favourites to win the title at the start of the season were QPR Ladies. Again have seen them play a couple of times and they like C&K Basildon have a host of attack minded players who look to advance with the ball quickly particulary down the flanks. Have in my opinion the best player in the league Sophie Fogarty (pictured right) very agile and quick with the ball picks a good pass and drives at defenders.
Also have the leagues top scorer in Stacey Sowden (pictured below) with over 20 goals in all competitions, a powerful and physical presence happy to go up against defenders and get herself in good scoring positions.
The 3rd placed team in the South East Combination league has snuck up the table almost unoticed on the back of 5 successive wins before Christmas and because of that MK Dons Ladies have to be in the title mix simply because I feel the 4th placed team are in with a shout still having seen them play and by the sheer number of games they have in hand on the other teams Norwich City Ladies. A tall and powerful group of players they are perhaps more direct in their game play than both C&K Basildon and QPR but I don't mean that in a negative sense as they look to attack and counter attack quickly getting the ball up the pitch but getting the players up in support too, pose a big problem at set pieces too. Have been the victim of a huge number of postponements and as good as games in hand sound most managers would rather have the points on the board will be interesting to see if their squad can cope with a quick succession of games... when they finally get them.
QPR LFC v MK Dons LFC
Onto this weekends match then out of the 4 teams still in with a real chance of the title MK Dons LFC were the ones I hadn't seen play was interested to see how they would fair against a team like QPR LFC who were on a long unbeaten run and with C&K Basildon's FA Cup tie postponed for a 4th successive weekend could either capitalise. Of course the game had to be on first January was a nightmare to find a game that was on the South East Combination teams have all suffered some almost having an 'off' season break let alone fortnights interuption lot of frustrated footballers out there. As it was waking up the weather was set fair the sky blue for a change mind you QPR's Honeycroft ground was a 132 miles away so I set off optimistically (certainly didn't want another drenching like I had last weekend).
Blues skies and good time a cup of tea and I was all set for the match even had the new camera out to practise with. The Honeycroft pitch looked in good shape a little sand here and there otherwise everything was perfect for the match. The noteable absense for QPR was Sophie Fogarty as the home side in their blue and white hooped shirts and white shorts and socks lined up in a 4-3-3 formation their opponents in an all red kit more of a 4-5-1 with lone stiker Eden Washington (pictured below) up top.
The opening exchanges were fairly even with MK Dons looking to press QPR high up the pitch especially in midfield where they out numbered their opponents both teams had crosses in that period but no one could get on the end of one. QPR looked to be struggling to get the formation balance MK Dons were on top with Eden Washington looking to get the ball and turn as players tried to get in support on the flanks.
It was then really against the run of play that QPR took the lead the three attacking players sticking to the task held their line and the ball found it's way to the feet of Leah Jones making her debut out on the left she ran clear of her marker, the keeper came rushing out to meet her on the edge of the box but she was sharper and slotted it past her into the empty net to make it 1-0. The goal certainly helped to settle down the home side skipper Elly Maggs could find some time on the ball at last they managed to slow the game down find space and look to build up attacks try to find a way through a solid and confident MK Dons back line. Maggs herself had a half chance with a slide/volley that she managed somehow to send goal wards only for the keeper to gather.
Stacey Sowden was having a quiet game as she herself adapted to the new formation but got a chance before the break that she dragged wide of goal. Leah Jones had another copycat break that had led to her scoring then but this time the onrushing keeper did enough to force her wide and the shot when it came was tame and easily gathered. At 1-0 QPR had the advantage going into the 2nd half.
A slender lead but QPR had had 45 minutes to get used to the new formation a few tweaks and a half time substitute and they looked better organised. MK Dons couldn't find their lone stiker quite so easily the first 20 or so minutes of the 2nd half was a fairly uneventful affair shots were few and far between and these off target. Eden Washington was taken off as MK Dons looked to change thing's no soon after one of their defenders had to be carried off and replaced. The ball just wouldn't stick for the visitors. MK Dons Leah Cudone looked to get herself into the box with a driving run her shot however was pulled wide of goal.
At the other end QPR broke into the box past two defenders but the ball was blasted straight and the keeper who recovered to gather the rebounded attempt. Into the last 15 minutes and the MK Dons players looked weary could not get the ball to stick up front. Into the closing minutes there was still the single goal one chance it could go either way the chance was Stacey Sowden's however. Had the ball played to her turned to get a yard on her defender going into the box who could only dive to push it away from goal Sowden pursued it and shot from an acute angle back agross goal beating the charging keeper and with it sealing the 3pts and go top of the South East Combination on goal difference from C&K Basildon.
A valuable 3pts in the title race perhaps too much for MK Dons to do now but I can see why they are where they are have some good techical players who work hard for each other. Will Norwich's games in hands work in their favour it's a tough league no game is a give me,or will it be a two team battle till the end of the season? I will for certain enjoy finding out.
No less than 4 teams going into the weekend were well placed for a title challenge.
C&K Basildon have been the early pace setters newly promoted and on the back of successive promotions the winning habit is something that you can carry with you to a new league. I have seen them play a couple of times, play the ball well, short passes but progressive in build up with plenty of attack minded players and in both the games I've seen the ability to conjure up a goal when it has been needed.
2nd place going into the weekend and the team I personally had as favourites to win the title at the start of the season were QPR Ladies. Again have seen them play a couple of times and they like C&K Basildon have a host of attack minded players who look to advance with the ball quickly particulary down the flanks. Have in my opinion the best player in the league Sophie Fogarty (pictured right) very agile and quick with the ball picks a good pass and drives at defenders.
Also have the leagues top scorer in Stacey Sowden (pictured below) with over 20 goals in all competitions, a powerful and physical presence happy to go up against defenders and get herself in good scoring positions.
The 3rd placed team in the South East Combination league has snuck up the table almost unoticed on the back of 5 successive wins before Christmas and because of that MK Dons Ladies have to be in the title mix simply because I feel the 4th placed team are in with a shout still having seen them play and by the sheer number of games they have in hand on the other teams Norwich City Ladies. A tall and powerful group of players they are perhaps more direct in their game play than both C&K Basildon and QPR but I don't mean that in a negative sense as they look to attack and counter attack quickly getting the ball up the pitch but getting the players up in support too, pose a big problem at set pieces too. Have been the victim of a huge number of postponements and as good as games in hand sound most managers would rather have the points on the board will be interesting to see if their squad can cope with a quick succession of games... when they finally get them.
QPR LFC v MK Dons LFC
Onto this weekends match then out of the 4 teams still in with a real chance of the title MK Dons LFC were the ones I hadn't seen play was interested to see how they would fair against a team like QPR LFC who were on a long unbeaten run and with C&K Basildon's FA Cup tie postponed for a 4th successive weekend could either capitalise. Of course the game had to be on first January was a nightmare to find a game that was on the South East Combination teams have all suffered some almost having an 'off' season break let alone fortnights interuption lot of frustrated footballers out there. As it was waking up the weather was set fair the sky blue for a change mind you QPR's Honeycroft ground was a 132 miles away so I set off optimistically (certainly didn't want another drenching like I had last weekend).
Blues skies and good time a cup of tea and I was all set for the match even had the new camera out to practise with. The Honeycroft pitch looked in good shape a little sand here and there otherwise everything was perfect for the match. The noteable absense for QPR was Sophie Fogarty as the home side in their blue and white hooped shirts and white shorts and socks lined up in a 4-3-3 formation their opponents in an all red kit more of a 4-5-1 with lone stiker Eden Washington (pictured below) up top.
It was then really against the run of play that QPR took the lead the three attacking players sticking to the task held their line and the ball found it's way to the feet of Leah Jones making her debut out on the left she ran clear of her marker, the keeper came rushing out to meet her on the edge of the box but she was sharper and slotted it past her into the empty net to make it 1-0. The goal certainly helped to settle down the home side skipper Elly Maggs could find some time on the ball at last they managed to slow the game down find space and look to build up attacks try to find a way through a solid and confident MK Dons back line. Maggs herself had a half chance with a slide/volley that she managed somehow to send goal wards only for the keeper to gather.
Stacey Sowden was having a quiet game as she herself adapted to the new formation but got a chance before the break that she dragged wide of goal. Leah Jones had another copycat break that had led to her scoring then but this time the onrushing keeper did enough to force her wide and the shot when it came was tame and easily gathered. At 1-0 QPR had the advantage going into the 2nd half.
A slender lead but QPR had had 45 minutes to get used to the new formation a few tweaks and a half time substitute and they looked better organised. MK Dons couldn't find their lone stiker quite so easily the first 20 or so minutes of the 2nd half was a fairly uneventful affair shots were few and far between and these off target. Eden Washington was taken off as MK Dons looked to change thing's no soon after one of their defenders had to be carried off and replaced. The ball just wouldn't stick for the visitors. MK Dons Leah Cudone looked to get herself into the box with a driving run her shot however was pulled wide of goal.
At the other end QPR broke into the box past two defenders but the ball was blasted straight and the keeper who recovered to gather the rebounded attempt. Into the last 15 minutes and the MK Dons players looked weary could not get the ball to stick up front. Into the closing minutes there was still the single goal one chance it could go either way the chance was Stacey Sowden's however. Had the ball played to her turned to get a yard on her defender going into the box who could only dive to push it away from goal Sowden pursued it and shot from an acute angle back agross goal beating the charging keeper and with it sealing the 3pts and go top of the South East Combination on goal difference from C&K Basildon.
Friday, 31 January 2014
WSL Transfer Buzz part 2
Safe to say a part 2 concerning the transfer comings and goings within the WSL this winter period was a good call because the activity between the various clubs has only intensified in regards to player movement and even though it still isn't over yet think it's time for an update of just who's gone where. Part 1 of the WSL Transfer Buzz wrapped up the deals done till the 21st of December and we all knew then there were still deals to be done but on this scale.....
Guess the best place to start with is Notts County Ladies who had worringly not done alot before Christmas and had barely enough players left from the Lincoln set up to make up a team let alone a squad. That was to change big time over these next four weeks 1st in was Carly Telford, the goalkeeper I thought might come to Notts and be reunited with Rick Passmoor who like Ellen White who'd come in earlier played for him during their Leeds days. There were departures but I'll come onto those. Come 2nd Jan it was the clubs marquee signing the only one they've brought in that's made me go "Wow!" Canadian international midfielder Diseree Scott, (The Destroyer) a real coup for the WSL club. Two New Zealand internationals were to sign shortly afterwards midfielder Katie Hoyle and full back Anna Greene both extremely experienced. In between these two signing was that of Scottish defender Rachel Corsie from Glasgow City... at last the squad looked more balanced and looked like it would be a competive force in the WSL in 2014.
The club wasn't done there however as this past week has seen a further raft of new players coming in firstly Melbourne Victory striker Caitlin Friend who has been in great scoring form in the W League this season. Yesterday saw not 1... not 2... but 3 new players arriving all vastly experienced and English in midfielder Katie Holtham who is from the Nottingham area, Dunia Susi a very versatile player who mainly operates at right back although I think she can do a good job further up the pitch and lastly Rachel Unitt, a long time favourite of mine brings a wealth of experience to the back line. It wouldn't surprise me if Notts aren't finished yet but this is now a very competitive squad vastly changed from last season of course, but then so was the Liverpool team that took the WSL title last season at the moment I'd think only Jess Clarke and Sophie Bradley would be regular starters but who knows.
There have of course been departures from the club alot of fans favourites with Martha Harris and Karen Bardsly moving to Liverpool and Manchester City respectfully, it was another crowd favorite that moved on the 24th December, Remi Allen to Birmingham a great signing in my opinion Potter and Moore are as good a midfield pair as any in the WSL and adding Remi Allen to that will make the middle of the park a tough place to be. Birmingham also brought in attacker Hannah Keryakoplis. Losing Rachel Unitt was a blow her experience will be missed. Also the club revealed Isobel Christiansen was in talks with another WSL club but as of now nothing has been revealed.
Casey Stoney another crowd favourite opted not to sign a new deal at Notts and took on a new challenge going back to Arsenal Ladies at last another welcome signing for the club after bringing in Siobhan Chamberlain. Vastly experienced and perfect for a club in transition as players come and go. Arsenal brought in another player with plenty of experience and previous knowledge of the WSL in Dutch star Anouk Hoogendijk. With players leaving in droves it seemed it must have been a relief when 1st Rachel Yankey, then Kelly Smith commited themselves to the club and let's hope the latter especially can have an injury free season as Kelly still has so much to offer. The club needed to bring in additional attacking options and did so yesterday (30th) with the signing of Scottish player Christie Murray, again from Glasgow City. Arsenal still has a very strong starting XI could do with additions to fill the squad.
Two big departures from the club however were to the benefit of fellow London club Chelsea as Emma Hayes got the signatures of both Katie Chapman and Gilly Flaherty which gives the club an impressive looking spine with Laura Bassett and Eniola Aluko. This week they announced the signing of South Korean star Ji So-Yun who will bring something very different to women's football in England and just today (31st) Swedish player Emma Wilhelmsson. They like Notts will be extremely competitive this season.
Liverpool had only brought in two players so far and when you have a settled and successful team I think that's all you need, they did however require a new goalkeeper and have signed American Libby Stout from BV Cloppenburg. Their Merseyside rivals have still only made the one signing in Abby Pope but having long term injury victim Fern Whelan returning will be a huge boost have also named Michelle Hinnigan as captain.
Bristol Academy having lost their manager Mark Sampson needed a replacement and have brought in Dave Edmondson currently coaching in Australia with W League outfit Melbourne Victory will be interesting to see whether he brings anyone over with him. The club has worked hard to secure the signatures of the squad that done so well to clinch second place last season but as yet no news on a new goalkeeper following the departure of Siobhan Chamberlain.
That leaves Manchester City the team I think everyone expected to do what Notts County has done and buy a new team instead they have been quite sensible in the transfer market gone with the let's find our feet first approach which I think is good as they are the new team to the league have signed Jess Holbrook from Liverpool along with Danielle Young from Blackburn Rovers and Emma Lipman from Leeds. Were launched/relaunched earlier this month becoming Manchester City Women as a pose to Ladies will be a force but maybe not title challenges... yet.
There are still no doubt a few more to come and go two or three notable names still out there more anouncements to come but the teams and coming season is taking shape now, it does need to settle down and it'll be great when at last the football can do the talking.
Guess the best place to start with is Notts County Ladies who had worringly not done alot before Christmas and had barely enough players left from the Lincoln set up to make up a team let alone a squad. That was to change big time over these next four weeks 1st in was Carly Telford, the goalkeeper I thought might come to Notts and be reunited with Rick Passmoor who like Ellen White who'd come in earlier played for him during their Leeds days. There were departures but I'll come onto those. Come 2nd Jan it was the clubs marquee signing the only one they've brought in that's made me go "Wow!" Canadian international midfielder Diseree Scott, (The Destroyer) a real coup for the WSL club. Two New Zealand internationals were to sign shortly afterwards midfielder Katie Hoyle and full back Anna Greene both extremely experienced. In between these two signing was that of Scottish defender Rachel Corsie from Glasgow City... at last the squad looked more balanced and looked like it would be a competive force in the WSL in 2014.
The club wasn't done there however as this past week has seen a further raft of new players coming in firstly Melbourne Victory striker Caitlin Friend who has been in great scoring form in the W League this season. Yesterday saw not 1... not 2... but 3 new players arriving all vastly experienced and English in midfielder Katie Holtham who is from the Nottingham area, Dunia Susi a very versatile player who mainly operates at right back although I think she can do a good job further up the pitch and lastly Rachel Unitt, a long time favourite of mine brings a wealth of experience to the back line. It wouldn't surprise me if Notts aren't finished yet but this is now a very competitive squad vastly changed from last season of course, but then so was the Liverpool team that took the WSL title last season at the moment I'd think only Jess Clarke and Sophie Bradley would be regular starters but who knows.
There have of course been departures from the club alot of fans favourites with Martha Harris and Karen Bardsly moving to Liverpool and Manchester City respectfully, it was another crowd favorite that moved on the 24th December, Remi Allen to Birmingham a great signing in my opinion Potter and Moore are as good a midfield pair as any in the WSL and adding Remi Allen to that will make the middle of the park a tough place to be. Birmingham also brought in attacker Hannah Keryakoplis. Losing Rachel Unitt was a blow her experience will be missed. Also the club revealed Isobel Christiansen was in talks with another WSL club but as of now nothing has been revealed.
Casey Stoney another crowd favourite opted not to sign a new deal at Notts and took on a new challenge going back to Arsenal Ladies at last another welcome signing for the club after bringing in Siobhan Chamberlain. Vastly experienced and perfect for a club in transition as players come and go. Arsenal brought in another player with plenty of experience and previous knowledge of the WSL in Dutch star Anouk Hoogendijk. With players leaving in droves it seemed it must have been a relief when 1st Rachel Yankey, then Kelly Smith commited themselves to the club and let's hope the latter especially can have an injury free season as Kelly still has so much to offer. The club needed to bring in additional attacking options and did so yesterday (30th) with the signing of Scottish player Christie Murray, again from Glasgow City. Arsenal still has a very strong starting XI could do with additions to fill the squad.
Two big departures from the club however were to the benefit of fellow London club Chelsea as Emma Hayes got the signatures of both Katie Chapman and Gilly Flaherty which gives the club an impressive looking spine with Laura Bassett and Eniola Aluko. This week they announced the signing of South Korean star Ji So-Yun who will bring something very different to women's football in England and just today (31st) Swedish player Emma Wilhelmsson. They like Notts will be extremely competitive this season.
Liverpool had only brought in two players so far and when you have a settled and successful team I think that's all you need, they did however require a new goalkeeper and have signed American Libby Stout from BV Cloppenburg. Their Merseyside rivals have still only made the one signing in Abby Pope but having long term injury victim Fern Whelan returning will be a huge boost have also named Michelle Hinnigan as captain.
Bristol Academy having lost their manager Mark Sampson needed a replacement and have brought in Dave Edmondson currently coaching in Australia with W League outfit Melbourne Victory will be interesting to see whether he brings anyone over with him. The club has worked hard to secure the signatures of the squad that done so well to clinch second place last season but as yet no news on a new goalkeeper following the departure of Siobhan Chamberlain.
That leaves Manchester City the team I think everyone expected to do what Notts County has done and buy a new team instead they have been quite sensible in the transfer market gone with the let's find our feet first approach which I think is good as they are the new team to the league have signed Jess Holbrook from Liverpool along with Danielle Young from Blackburn Rovers and Emma Lipman from Leeds. Were launched/relaunched earlier this month becoming Manchester City Women as a pose to Ladies will be a force but maybe not title challenges... yet.
There are still no doubt a few more to come and go two or three notable names still out there more anouncements to come but the teams and coming season is taking shape now, it does need to settle down and it'll be great when at last the football can do the talking.
Sunday, 19 January 2014
Match Report UEA Women's FC v Fakenham Ladies FC
The weather continues to play havoc with the best laid plans of a women's football supporter as football pitches become more suited for flippers rather than football boots, so it pays to keep your options open this time of year. As it was circumstances offered me a chance to take another look at a women's football match in Norfolk once again and the one I ventured to today was a real thriller. It was a cup weekend the quarter finals of the Norfolk Women's Cup.
Despite all of the rain we've had this past decade.... sorry week it seemed that the 4 quarter finals listed below were on -
Mulbarton Belles v Norwich City Ladies FC
Alysham Ladies FC v Wymondham Town Ladies FC
UEA Women's FC v Fakenham Ladies FC
Stalham Town Ladies FC v Thorpe United Ladies FC
The tie that had caught my eye was UEA Women's FC v Fakenham Ladies FC. The University of East Anglia women's team had been on a good run of results recently that has seen them join Wymondham and Thorpe at the top of the league. One of those results being a 4-0 victory over today's visitors Fakenham the weekend before.
Setting off in the rain thankfully conditions improved as I travelled east along the A47 to the outskirts of Norwich and the venue for the match Colney Lane Playingfields, a nice sports and recreation ground even had blue sky which has been in short supply of late. Kick off was at 1:30 so I was glad I'd gotten there in time and finding the pitch was all set for the match.
UEA lining up in an all navy blue kit and Fakenham in yellow tops and socks with black shorts it was the home side with the early pressure as the ball came flashing across the box from the right the 1st touch was too heavy and blasted wide of the goal. The opening exchanges were pretty even with both teams getting chances to break but no clear cut chances to strike on goal. Fakenham were struggling to get the ball up to their strikers and keep possession high up the pitch. A last ditch diving tackle prevented UEA on the edge of the box whilst up the other end a shooting chance was pulled wide of goal. UEA were building pressure as they drove down the flanks a number of last ditch blocks were needed from Fakenham.
During this spell it looked likely UEA would score the ball was crossed in early from the right again the last Fakenham defender had to dive in to stop the attacker behind her getting a free shot on goal alas the defenders outstretched leg reached the ball but could only send it dispairingly towards goal and roll just inside the post as UEA took the lead. UEA were fully on top now as soon after a shot from the edge of the box cannoned down off the crossbar and Fakenham's keeper was able to push it wide for a corner.
Another chance for UEA from the corner a header but straight at the keeper who saved. Fakenham needed to get the ball up field and had a chance as their striker broke through but UEA's keeper was out fast to smother the attempted shot. UEA hit the post then as a shot came in from the right beat the keeper but hitting the post bounced back across goal enabling a defender to clear at half time the Fakenham goal had led a charmed life and on another day where they might have been 3 down at the break UEA led by 1-0 and it was still very much game on.
Now for the 2nd half and it was to be the classic 'game of two halves' as Fakenham tweaked their line up a little in an attempt to better link their midfield up with their strikers. As it was UEA had the 1st chance as their attacker ran clear only to find the Fakenham keeper in the right position to save her shot. However Fakenham were getting more of the ball and pushing forwards had support for their strikers got the ball down the right and the cross was fired hard towards the six yard box it beat the UEA defence but not Fakenham's striker Lauren Matthews who blasted the ball home from close range to make it 1-1. Now Fakenham were the ones on top they were coming at UEA in numbers it was Matthews again with another chance as she run down to block a defenders clearance but the ball cannoned off her into the keepers arms.
The game was very open UEA were able to counter but once again good positioning from Fakenhams keeper prevented a goal. For all their possession Fakenham were defending a high line and from this UEA's no9 Aviyah Abrahams capitalised running off her defender and firing a fierce shot towards goal Fakenham's keeper got her gloves to it by it wasn't enough as it bounced down and into the net and UEA regained the lead 2-1.
Fakenham kept going however pressing hard up the other end attacking in numbers Lauren Matthews winning the ball on the half way line fired the ball forwards found her strike partner Sam King and with a composed strike the no14 struck the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to equalise for the 2nd time in the game 2-2.
UEA's Aviyah Abrahams was causing problems for Fakenham's tiring defenders playing off the last defender she was able to break several times. Running hard with the ball she weaved her way past two tackling defenders before rifling the ball into the net getting her 2nd of the match and restoring UEA's lead 3-2 the next goal wasn't to be another Fakenham leveller as UEA's no9 continued her marauding runs pulling defenders towards her she was able to get a cross in from the left and it found her team mate no10 Amelia Glean unmarked and clear on goal to give the UEA at last a 2 goal cushion going into the last 20 mins 4-2.
Fakenham didn't give up the spirit that had seen them fightback twice was still in abundance they continued to attack and in number and from one attack UEA couldn't clear the edge of the box it found the feet of Fakenham's no8 Maddie Smith and she lifted the ball towards goal, UEA's keeper let the ball slip through her gloves as it came in high and could only watch as it went in behind her to make it 4-3 with just minutes to play. UEA had to defend hard during that period a series of corners and a bit of pinball in the box but they held on to claim victory in a thrilling game and progress to the semi-finals, well done to them and too Fakenham too played with great spirit and a pleasure to watch.
In the other quarter-finals Mulbarton v Norwich was a late late call off, very disappointing for the home side I'm sure as they were looking forwards too going up against a team 5 leagues higher, but will have to wait till another day. Alysham were the victors in another 7 goal spectacle running out 4-3 winners over Wymondham and Stalham Town were beaten 6-0 by Thorpe United.
Despite all of the rain we've had this past decade.... sorry week it seemed that the 4 quarter finals listed below were on -
Mulbarton Belles v Norwich City Ladies FC
Alysham Ladies FC v Wymondham Town Ladies FC
UEA Women's FC v Fakenham Ladies FC
Stalham Town Ladies FC v Thorpe United Ladies FC
The tie that had caught my eye was UEA Women's FC v Fakenham Ladies FC. The University of East Anglia women's team had been on a good run of results recently that has seen them join Wymondham and Thorpe at the top of the league. One of those results being a 4-0 victory over today's visitors Fakenham the weekend before.
Setting off in the rain thankfully conditions improved as I travelled east along the A47 to the outskirts of Norwich and the venue for the match Colney Lane Playingfields, a nice sports and recreation ground even had blue sky which has been in short supply of late. Kick off was at 1:30 so I was glad I'd gotten there in time and finding the pitch was all set for the match.
UEA lining up in an all navy blue kit and Fakenham in yellow tops and socks with black shorts it was the home side with the early pressure as the ball came flashing across the box from the right the 1st touch was too heavy and blasted wide of the goal. The opening exchanges were pretty even with both teams getting chances to break but no clear cut chances to strike on goal. Fakenham were struggling to get the ball up to their strikers and keep possession high up the pitch. A last ditch diving tackle prevented UEA on the edge of the box whilst up the other end a shooting chance was pulled wide of goal. UEA were building pressure as they drove down the flanks a number of last ditch blocks were needed from Fakenham.
During this spell it looked likely UEA would score the ball was crossed in early from the right again the last Fakenham defender had to dive in to stop the attacker behind her getting a free shot on goal alas the defenders outstretched leg reached the ball but could only send it dispairingly towards goal and roll just inside the post as UEA took the lead. UEA were fully on top now as soon after a shot from the edge of the box cannoned down off the crossbar and Fakenham's keeper was able to push it wide for a corner.
Another chance for UEA from the corner a header but straight at the keeper who saved. Fakenham needed to get the ball up field and had a chance as their striker broke through but UEA's keeper was out fast to smother the attempted shot. UEA hit the post then as a shot came in from the right beat the keeper but hitting the post bounced back across goal enabling a defender to clear at half time the Fakenham goal had led a charmed life and on another day where they might have been 3 down at the break UEA led by 1-0 and it was still very much game on.
Now for the 2nd half and it was to be the classic 'game of two halves' as Fakenham tweaked their line up a little in an attempt to better link their midfield up with their strikers. As it was UEA had the 1st chance as their attacker ran clear only to find the Fakenham keeper in the right position to save her shot. However Fakenham were getting more of the ball and pushing forwards had support for their strikers got the ball down the right and the cross was fired hard towards the six yard box it beat the UEA defence but not Fakenham's striker Lauren Matthews who blasted the ball home from close range to make it 1-1. Now Fakenham were the ones on top they were coming at UEA in numbers it was Matthews again with another chance as she run down to block a defenders clearance but the ball cannoned off her into the keepers arms.
The game was very open UEA were able to counter but once again good positioning from Fakenhams keeper prevented a goal. For all their possession Fakenham were defending a high line and from this UEA's no9 Aviyah Abrahams capitalised running off her defender and firing a fierce shot towards goal Fakenham's keeper got her gloves to it by it wasn't enough as it bounced down and into the net and UEA regained the lead 2-1.
Fakenham kept going however pressing hard up the other end attacking in numbers Lauren Matthews winning the ball on the half way line fired the ball forwards found her strike partner Sam King and with a composed strike the no14 struck the ball past the keeper into the back of the net to equalise for the 2nd time in the game 2-2.
UEA's Aviyah Abrahams was causing problems for Fakenham's tiring defenders playing off the last defender she was able to break several times. Running hard with the ball she weaved her way past two tackling defenders before rifling the ball into the net getting her 2nd of the match and restoring UEA's lead 3-2 the next goal wasn't to be another Fakenham leveller as UEA's no9 continued her marauding runs pulling defenders towards her she was able to get a cross in from the left and it found her team mate no10 Amelia Glean unmarked and clear on goal to give the UEA at last a 2 goal cushion going into the last 20 mins 4-2.
Fakenham didn't give up the spirit that had seen them fightback twice was still in abundance they continued to attack and in number and from one attack UEA couldn't clear the edge of the box it found the feet of Fakenham's no8 Maddie Smith and she lifted the ball towards goal, UEA's keeper let the ball slip through her gloves as it came in high and could only watch as it went in behind her to make it 4-3 with just minutes to play. UEA had to defend hard during that period a series of corners and a bit of pinball in the box but they held on to claim victory in a thrilling game and progress to the semi-finals, well done to them and too Fakenham too played with great spirit and a pleasure to watch.
In the other quarter-finals Mulbarton v Norwich was a late late call off, very disappointing for the home side I'm sure as they were looking forwards too going up against a team 5 leagues higher, but will have to wait till another day. Alysham were the victors in another 7 goal spectacle running out 4-3 winners over Wymondham and Stalham Town were beaten 6-0 by Thorpe United.
Thursday, 16 January 2014
Sponsoring Bethan Jones
Recently I announced through my twitter feed that my new blog Supporting Women's Football would be sponsoring Cambridge WFC player Bethan Jones. Approached by the club it was an easy decision to make had coming towards the end of the WSL campaign started attending other women's football matches in the South East region had been to see Cambridge WFC a few times was impressed by the standard of football at this level of the game.
I had sponsored a player at Lincoln Ladies during their final WSL season and from a personal stand point find it a positive and rewarding way of expressing my support. Many clubs up and down the country whatever their size or league offer sponsorship packages for individual players, they are an important way for clubs to raise much needed funds to help with the day to day running of the club and look after it's players and staff, and also gives a boost to the player involved.
For the sponsor be it a business or individual it has several benefits too. For the individual fan or maybe even group/syndicate of fans it is rewarding to sponsor a player in terms of expressing support and adds further interest to watching the team. For a business it represents a means of added exposure and advertising within the individual clubs sponsorship package, be it through ground, program or website advertising, to what is going to be increasingly more common and a means for the women's game to lead the way somewhat through social media channels such as Twitter or Facebook.
Cambridge WFC are blessed to have a number of partners to help with promoting the club and it was through these partners I was approached. They have a supporters club run by amberarmy.net @amberarmynet and run a twitter account dedicated to supporting the club @CWFCPressOffice and it is through them I will pick up how the sponsorship deal took place, "The Sponsorship of Bethan happened after we noticed an appeal from her family for a sponsor and after a bit of research we passed the task of gaining a sponsor to club partner and agent Chrome Sport." The A*A spokeswoman continued, "During discussions and negociations with Darren it was brought to our attention that he in fact lives in a nearby area to Bethan," she added, "this helped in negociations as there was some affinity with the player and we were delighted when Chrome were able to seal the deal." In closing she said, "there are still many players yet to be sponsored and we are on the lookout for any willing companies or individuals."
A spokesman for Chrome Sport @ChromeSport who negociated the sponsorship added, "When we were asked by amberarmy.net who run the CW Press Office and supporters club to negociate a sponsor for Bethan we were delighted to help," he added, "from what we know Bethan travels quite far to play for Cambridge WFC and with Darren (Supporting Women's Football Blog) living in an area not too far from Bethan it works well," he went on, "we continually work with A*A and the club to find sponsor's for the team." In closing he said, "Having watched Bethan play she is deserving of the sponsorship, she is clearly talented and will no doubt go on to prove a very good player for Cambridge WFC in the future."
The club itself had this to say regarding sponsorship through Cambridge WFC's Vice Chair and reserve regular Vicky Hoover - For some reason, despite our best efforts we have not had any success in finding a main sponsor for the club, so we have had to try and think of other means of raising the much needed funds the club requires to survive. So the player sponsorship kicked off last season. It was the brain child of our friends at Amber Army, the initial thought was to try and obtain individual player sponsorship and the money would go direct to the players. However after much discussion with players and committee members we all agreed that any funds raised through the sponsorship scheme would go back into the club for the purchase of kit and equipment from which everyone can benefit. Last season we raised enough to purchase new training balls, water bottles, warm up tops and bibs. This season's target is to raise sufficient funds to purchase a new away kit.
Certainly from my point of view Bethan living nearby to myself was an added extra in deciding to sponsor a player at Cambridge WFC. I can understand the travelling that has to be undertaken to train and play. The club itself has been very welcoming and have a talented group of players. It is a mutually beneficial package as I'm aiming to help promote the women's game through my blog and the club and it's partners will help in this. I am delighted to sponsor Bethan Jones.
Introducing Bethan Jones
Of course having a blog gives me the opportunity to introduce to everyone the player I am sponsoring at Cambridge WFC, Bethan Jones. Just 17 years old the club told me that she is very much one for the future has been in the 1st team regulary this season, scored her 1st goal for the club away at Brentwood Town LFC back in November.
Bethan's mother Vicky who takes photographs at Cambridge WFC matches was kind enough to supply me with some background information on Bethan's football career to date starting close to where I currently live near Kings Lynn in Norfolk. For Wootton girls U10 & U11's along with featuring for West Norfolk before moving to Cyprus where she played for Olympiakos in 2007/08, then AE Ammochostos from 2008 - 2012 played ladies football from age 12. Has played with and against current international players from Romania, Sweden and Cyprus. Had the job of marking Scottish international and 2012 GB star Ifeoma Dieke whilst she was on loan to Apollon Ladies.
Has played against Russian champions Rossyanka and various touring Swedish clubs. Is also the youngest player to score in the Cypriot women's professional league when she was just 12 years old. Below are a few pictures of Bethan from her early fooball career kindly suppled by her mother Vicky.
Returning to the United Kingdom, Bethan played for Fakenham Town Ladies in Norfolk during 2012/13 before becoming a Cambridge WFC player. Seen her mostly on the right side of midfield but can fill in at right back has a good turn of pace and looks to attack with the ball can put a tackle in too. Her ambition is to one day play for Wales and I wish her every success in that goal, can look to a fellow South East Combination league player in MK Dons LFC player Alice Hassall who played in all of England U17's games at last years Euro's for inspiration in that aim. I wish her well in her football career going forwards.
The club were kind enough to provide a few lines regarding Bethan again via Vicky Hoover - Beth first started training with us towards the end of last season, she was still playing for Fakenham Town at the time but asked if she could come along to training and see how she got on. We always like to encourage new players and invited her to come along to training. Although she didn't sign for us last season she was back pre-season and eager to put pen to paper. Beth has established herself as a popular member of the squad, she is very likeable, sometimes quiet and reserved but quick to share a joke. She is one of the youngest members of the squad, which is great because she is a big talent now but still has so much to learn. She really is one to watch. She is a real asset to the club (as is her Mum who takes lots of lovely photos on a match day.) We hope Beth will enjoy a long and lucrative career with us here at Cambridge and we will do our best to nurture her talent.
In conclusion the club adds - We would really love to find sponsors for more of our players and if possible a main kit sponsor. We have sponsorship packages available and anyone interested can make enquiries via the CWFC press office @CWFCPressOffice or contact the club direct.
I had sponsored a player at Lincoln Ladies during their final WSL season and from a personal stand point find it a positive and rewarding way of expressing my support. Many clubs up and down the country whatever their size or league offer sponsorship packages for individual players, they are an important way for clubs to raise much needed funds to help with the day to day running of the club and look after it's players and staff, and also gives a boost to the player involved.
For the sponsor be it a business or individual it has several benefits too. For the individual fan or maybe even group/syndicate of fans it is rewarding to sponsor a player in terms of expressing support and adds further interest to watching the team. For a business it represents a means of added exposure and advertising within the individual clubs sponsorship package, be it through ground, program or website advertising, to what is going to be increasingly more common and a means for the women's game to lead the way somewhat through social media channels such as Twitter or Facebook.
Cambridge WFC are blessed to have a number of partners to help with promoting the club and it was through these partners I was approached. They have a supporters club run by amberarmy.net @amberarmynet and run a twitter account dedicated to supporting the club @CWFCPressOffice and it is through them I will pick up how the sponsorship deal took place, "The Sponsorship of Bethan happened after we noticed an appeal from her family for a sponsor and after a bit of research we passed the task of gaining a sponsor to club partner and agent Chrome Sport." The A*A spokeswoman continued, "During discussions and negociations with Darren it was brought to our attention that he in fact lives in a nearby area to Bethan," she added, "this helped in negociations as there was some affinity with the player and we were delighted when Chrome were able to seal the deal." In closing she said, "there are still many players yet to be sponsored and we are on the lookout for any willing companies or individuals."
A spokesman for Chrome Sport @ChromeSport who negociated the sponsorship added, "When we were asked by amberarmy.net who run the CW Press Office and supporters club to negociate a sponsor for Bethan we were delighted to help," he added, "from what we know Bethan travels quite far to play for Cambridge WFC and with Darren (Supporting Women's Football Blog) living in an area not too far from Bethan it works well," he went on, "we continually work with A*A and the club to find sponsor's for the team." In closing he said, "Having watched Bethan play she is deserving of the sponsorship, she is clearly talented and will no doubt go on to prove a very good player for Cambridge WFC in the future."
The club itself had this to say regarding sponsorship through Cambridge WFC's Vice Chair and reserve regular Vicky Hoover - For some reason, despite our best efforts we have not had any success in finding a main sponsor for the club, so we have had to try and think of other means of raising the much needed funds the club requires to survive. So the player sponsorship kicked off last season. It was the brain child of our friends at Amber Army, the initial thought was to try and obtain individual player sponsorship and the money would go direct to the players. However after much discussion with players and committee members we all agreed that any funds raised through the sponsorship scheme would go back into the club for the purchase of kit and equipment from which everyone can benefit. Last season we raised enough to purchase new training balls, water bottles, warm up tops and bibs. This season's target is to raise sufficient funds to purchase a new away kit.
Certainly from my point of view Bethan living nearby to myself was an added extra in deciding to sponsor a player at Cambridge WFC. I can understand the travelling that has to be undertaken to train and play. The club itself has been very welcoming and have a talented group of players. It is a mutually beneficial package as I'm aiming to help promote the women's game through my blog and the club and it's partners will help in this. I am delighted to sponsor Bethan Jones.
Introducing Bethan Jones
Bethan's mother Vicky who takes photographs at Cambridge WFC matches was kind enough to supply me with some background information on Bethan's football career to date starting close to where I currently live near Kings Lynn in Norfolk. For Wootton girls U10 & U11's along with featuring for West Norfolk before moving to Cyprus where she played for Olympiakos in 2007/08, then AE Ammochostos from 2008 - 2012 played ladies football from age 12. Has played with and against current international players from Romania, Sweden and Cyprus. Had the job of marking Scottish international and 2012 GB star Ifeoma Dieke whilst she was on loan to Apollon Ladies.
Has played against Russian champions Rossyanka and various touring Swedish clubs. Is also the youngest player to score in the Cypriot women's professional league when she was just 12 years old. Below are a few pictures of Bethan from her early fooball career kindly suppled by her mother Vicky.
The club were kind enough to provide a few lines regarding Bethan again via Vicky Hoover - Beth first started training with us towards the end of last season, she was still playing for Fakenham Town at the time but asked if she could come along to training and see how she got on. We always like to encourage new players and invited her to come along to training. Although she didn't sign for us last season she was back pre-season and eager to put pen to paper. Beth has established herself as a popular member of the squad, she is very likeable, sometimes quiet and reserved but quick to share a joke. She is one of the youngest members of the squad, which is great because she is a big talent now but still has so much to learn. She really is one to watch. She is a real asset to the club (as is her Mum who takes lots of lovely photos on a match day.) We hope Beth will enjoy a long and lucrative career with us here at Cambridge and we will do our best to nurture her talent.
In conclusion the club adds - We would really love to find sponsors for more of our players and if possible a main kit sponsor. We have sponsorship packages available and anyone interested can make enquiries via the CWFC press office @CWFCPressOffice or contact the club direct.
Sunday, 5 January 2014
SWF Blog 50 Match Challenge
The New Year is a time for new resolutions, new starts, and all of that. I don't really go in for the resolution thing because like 99% of us I'm rubbish at it. That being said I have set myself a small challenge for 2014 that is to attend at least 50 women's football matches! Now originally when I had this brainwave it was going to be 100! Whoa steady on boy!! Reeled it in to a more modest target so the real challenge is to see if I can break it.
There are afterall a few factors that have to be considered, A) the British weather, B) the FAWSL fixture scheduling and C) the government introducing a tax rebate on petrol for supporters of women's football. None of these things are likely to be favourable and with the nearest WSL team a 2 hour drive from Norfolk the car will be needing a service far too regulary. That though won't stop me looking forwards to it. Plenty of winter league action happening before then however to attend. Keep an eye on my tweets at @GilharrenD under the caption (SWF Blog 50) to see my progress got into the habit of taking a picture on the mobile where ever I turn up Game #1 is ticked off Alysham Ladies FC v Attleborough Ladies just another 49 to go....
Not that I'm the only fan who will be clocking up the games sure plenty of you will be out to beat that tally and our paths will cross somewhere.... who'd have thought this neutral lark could be so enjoyable. Here's to supporting women's football in 2014.
There are afterall a few factors that have to be considered, A) the British weather, B) the FAWSL fixture scheduling and C) the government introducing a tax rebate on petrol for supporters of women's football. None of these things are likely to be favourable and with the nearest WSL team a 2 hour drive from Norfolk the car will be needing a service far too regulary. That though won't stop me looking forwards to it. Plenty of winter league action happening before then however to attend. Keep an eye on my tweets at @GilharrenD under the caption (SWF Blog 50) to see my progress got into the habit of taking a picture on the mobile where ever I turn up Game #1 is ticked off Alysham Ladies FC v Attleborough Ladies just another 49 to go....
Not that I'm the only fan who will be clocking up the games sure plenty of you will be out to beat that tally and our paths will cross somewhere.... who'd have thought this neutral lark could be so enjoyable. Here's to supporting women's football in 2014.
New Year - Match Report Alysham Ladies v Attleborough Ladies
Let's start the new year with some match action been a long Christmas period without a game, that said I hope all players, coaches, volenteers and supporters of the game had an enjoyable time. The weather was going to be the biggest enemy to me getting to see a game this weekend and with the terrible rain we've had up and down the country it was going to be a certainty that plenty of games were going to get called off and planning would have to involve several contingency options thus I had a list of possible games to go and attend.
Wanted to start the year off with a local Norfolk league fixture however and thankfully the game I wanted to see survived the Norfolk Division One game between Alysham Ladies FC and Attleborough Ladies. Taking place at the Alysham Recreation Ground it was clear to see why this game might survive the weather the pitch being marked out up sloping ground it is most certainly not the flatest pitch out there nonetheless we had a game on.
Alysham Ladies were comfortably in mid table in the league going into the match having played 8 W4, D1, L3. It was a different story however for Attleborough Ladies who were bottom of the table having played 7 and lost 7. The home side lining up in orange shirts and socks with blue shorts were playing up the slope in the 1st half Attleborough were kitted out in a claret strip with sky blue trim.
Knowing the stats leading up to the game it is sometimes a case of wondering how long a team that has been struggling can hold out... the longer the better you would hope. Alysham started the stronger had a couple of half chances as Attleborough struggled to get the ball to their fowards. The early goal came from a corner a scramble from a ball flashed across the box was poked home to make it 1-0. After that the 1st half was a lively encounter Alysham had more chances but shots were wide of the post and Attleborough's keeper was quick off her line to gather when needed.
When Attleborough did break they were reluctant to do so in great numbers meaning Alysham could close down any danger. As the half wore on though Attleborough were getting bolder sprang the offside trap a couple of times and with better finishing could have easily gotten level. Breaking in numbers though left the visitors short at the back and Alysham countered well just before half time to score a 2nd then 3rd goal and have a strong lead to take into the 2nd half.
Attleborough could have done with an early goal their striker had a chance but an Alysham defender and the on rushing keeper did enough to force the shot wide. After that Aylsham really started to push Attleborough back a cross from the left hand side found the head of their attacker unmarked and it was 4-0. The 5th goal came direct from a free kick 20 yards out that was struck very well past the keeper. A 6th came 10 mins later this time Alysham beating the off side flag and the striker getting the ball over the charging keeper.
The last and 7th Aylsham goal came as their attacker pulled off the shoulder of the last defender moved the ball between her feet to create a better angle and slid it behind the keeper into the net. A comfortable win from the home side to see them move up the table. Attleborough remain bottom but can take heart from the chances they created in the 1st half.
Wanted to start the year off with a local Norfolk league fixture however and thankfully the game I wanted to see survived the Norfolk Division One game between Alysham Ladies FC and Attleborough Ladies. Taking place at the Alysham Recreation Ground it was clear to see why this game might survive the weather the pitch being marked out up sloping ground it is most certainly not the flatest pitch out there nonetheless we had a game on.
Alysham Ladies were comfortably in mid table in the league going into the match having played 8 W4, D1, L3. It was a different story however for Attleborough Ladies who were bottom of the table having played 7 and lost 7. The home side lining up in orange shirts and socks with blue shorts were playing up the slope in the 1st half Attleborough were kitted out in a claret strip with sky blue trim.
Knowing the stats leading up to the game it is sometimes a case of wondering how long a team that has been struggling can hold out... the longer the better you would hope. Alysham started the stronger had a couple of half chances as Attleborough struggled to get the ball to their fowards. The early goal came from a corner a scramble from a ball flashed across the box was poked home to make it 1-0. After that the 1st half was a lively encounter Alysham had more chances but shots were wide of the post and Attleborough's keeper was quick off her line to gather when needed.
When Attleborough did break they were reluctant to do so in great numbers meaning Alysham could close down any danger. As the half wore on though Attleborough were getting bolder sprang the offside trap a couple of times and with better finishing could have easily gotten level. Breaking in numbers though left the visitors short at the back and Alysham countered well just before half time to score a 2nd then 3rd goal and have a strong lead to take into the 2nd half.
Attleborough could have done with an early goal their striker had a chance but an Alysham defender and the on rushing keeper did enough to force the shot wide. After that Aylsham really started to push Attleborough back a cross from the left hand side found the head of their attacker unmarked and it was 4-0. The 5th goal came direct from a free kick 20 yards out that was struck very well past the keeper. A 6th came 10 mins later this time Alysham beating the off side flag and the striker getting the ball over the charging keeper.
The last and 7th Aylsham goal came as their attacker pulled off the shoulder of the last defender moved the ball between her feet to create a better angle and slid it behind the keeper into the net. A comfortable win from the home side to see them move up the table. Attleborough remain bottom but can take heart from the chances they created in the 1st half.
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