Match Report - Doncaster Rovers Belles v Sunderland AFC Ladies

  Action form the 1st Round of the 2016 Continental Tyres Cup on the Supporting Women's Football Blog this Sunday with a trip to Sheffield to watch the all FAWSL 1 tie between Doncaster Rovers Belles & Sunderland AFC Ladies.

  Both sides looking to reach the quarter finals of the competition and with it hope the victory will kick start their season as this is a clash between the two sides currently bottom of FAWSL 1. 

  Newly promoted back to the top flight of women's football after a 2 season absence, Doncaster Rovers Belles have gotten off to the worst possible start to life back in FAWSL 1 losing all of the matches to date. The poor start saw manager Glen Harris dismissed after just 3 league games played. A turbulent time having lost FAWSL top scorer from last season Courtney Sweetman-Kirk to a fractured leg early in the season and recently high profile signings Becky Easton and Natasha Dowie have left the club. 

  The club has promoted Emma Coates to the role of 1st team manager, has been able to bring in new faces whilst the transfer window was open during the mid-season break, Lauren Cresswell has re signed for the club a dead ball specialist who will provide a extra option in the wide position. Also coming in are Mayumi Pacheco from Liverpool Ladies to add defensive cover and Marta Batowska-Mathews to add more depth to the midfield. 

  For Sunderland AFC Ladies this is their 2nd season playing in FAWSL 1 and haven't gotten off to the start they did in 2015 where for a spell they were flirting with the title chasers eventually finishing 4th. From 8 league matches played so far this season have yet to win a league game with 3 draws and 5 defeats, will be looking to end a run of 4 straight defeats with a win today.

  Perhaps a welcome distraction for both sides this weekend sees the 1st Round of a new look Continental Tyres Cup taking place, gone is the group format. Straight into a knock-out competition with a preliminary round played to see 16 sees in the 1st Round draw with the FAWSL 1 clubs seeded to play a lower ranked club who get home advantage. Doncaster Rovers Belles have the home advantage although with their usual home venue the Keepmoat Stadium not quite ready after having the pitch reseeded today's match is taking place at Sheffield FC Ladies, Home of Football Stadium.

  A nice compact stadium, good lay out around a large pitch a stand behind one goal another standing area covered on one side. The Coach and Horses pub nestling in one corner, worth a visit too. Was a hot day a little cloud cover but no chance of rain. The pitch looked a little uneven and bobbly in places as the two sides walked out onto the pitch

  Doncaster Rovers Belles starting XI - Nicola Hobbs, Sophie Barker, Rachel Newborough, Leandra Little (C), Rhiannon Roberts, Kasia Lipka, Emily Simpkins, Katrin Omarsdottir, Lauren Cresswell, Carla Humphrey & Jess Sigsworth.
  subs - Anna Moorhouse, Samantha Tierney, Sue Smith, Mayumi Pacheco & Yasmin Mosby.

  Sunderland AFC Ladies starting XI - Hilde Olsen, Abby Holmes, Danielle Brown, Hayley Sharp, Victoria Williams (C), Lucy Staniforth, Rachel Furness, Abbey Joice, Keira Ramshaw, Brooke Chaplin & Madelaine Hill
  subs - Rachael Laws, Stephanie Bannon, Kelly McDougall, Beth Mead, Stephanie Roche & Charlotte Potts.

  Lauren Cresswell was in the starting line-up for Doncaster operating in front of Sophie Barker at left back. Mayumi Pacheco was amongst the substitutes. Four changes for Sunderland from the side that lost 5-0 to Chelsea Ladies in mid-week with Rachael Laws, Stephanie Roche, Beth Mead and Stephanie Bannon starting on the bench, Victoria Williams wearing the captains armband. Are lined up wearing their red and white vertical striped shirts, with black shorts and socks as Doncaster wearing yellow shirts and socks with blue shorts kick off the 1st half. 

  Doncaster go long from the start sending a ball out to the right flank for Jess Sigsworth to chase can't get there an early kick off the ball for Sunderland goalkeeper Hilde Olsen. A break on for Sunderland as Keira Ramshaw latches onto a Doncaster throw put in from the right looks to send the ball up the pitch with Madelaine Hill making a run up front, Nicola Hobbs coming running out her area to clear the threat on her goal. 

  A quiet opening few minutes in terms of goal mouth action, both sides are snapping at each other in the middle of the park which is seeing passes misplaced. A throw to Doncaster mid-way inside the Sunderland half on the right sees the ball put into Sigsworth's feet, turning and taking the ball on unleashes a shot from the corner of the area, aiming near post Olsen has the angle covered and gathers the ball. 

  Williams comes across to the left to tackle Cresswell as she looks to get on the ball having been fed the ball up the line by Barker. From the resulting throw Carla Humphrey is brought down 25 yards from goal. Emily Simpkins is over the set-piece looks to lift the ball in towards the far post for players to attack, too much on it no one can latch onto the ball as it drops out of play. 

  Lucy Staniforth presses the ball high up the pitch winning in from Doncaster's defence right side in front of the box rolls the pass inside to Brooke Chaplin who goes for goal, drags her effort wide.A free kick out wide on the left brings them the 1st corner of the match the ball is put in long headed clear as Doncaster look to clear their box Sunderland right back Danielle Brown getting to the ball looks to hook it back high into the box, the visitors look to attack it but the offside flag is raised.

  A spell of dominance from Sunderland, Staniforth working hard to close down the ball takes it on up the left flank before cutting inside and passing to Hill 20 yards from goal left of the D pulls the trigger, her effort is blocked at close quarters the deflection sees the ball run out to the right picked up by Ramshaw she powers a shot in towards the Doncaster goal, Hobbs coming across her goal does well to hold onto the ball. Abby Holmes brings the ball up the left from the back for Sunderland plays the pass into Chaplin ahead of her takes on the shot from outside the box takes a deflection running behind for a corner. 

  Doncaster having been put under the cosh by Sunderland break forwards the ball is with Humphrey a strong run on the ball, has Sigsworth peeling away to the left ahead of her, gets the ball, coming inside he cross is deflected up high into the air, Katrin Omarsdottir has made up the ground from midfield is after the dropping ball, can't quite get there as Olsen collects it on the bounce. Sigsworth and Omarsdottir link up moments later, the former getting hold of the ball and turning the Sunderland defence on the right, lays the ball inside to the Icelandic International who shoots from the corner of the area sees her strike charged down.

  GOAL! Doncaster take the lead on 22 minutes scoring from their 1st corner of the game, won on the right side, Cresswell whips in a great delivery towards the near post, Doncaster captain Leandra Little coming to meet it stoops and head the ball on towards goal past the diving Olsen and in 1-0.

Leandra Little turns her header into the back of the net to give Doncaster the lead

  The goal sees Doncaster begin to dominate press players forwards winning a throw on the left Barker plays the ball back up the pitch to Humphrey who sees Cresswell moving to come inside towards the left corner of the area sends her the ball, Cresswell looks to lift a ball up towards the far post with both Sigsworth and Omarsdottir looking to attack it, just too close to Olsen the keeper jumps to claim the ball. A free kick is awarded to Doncaster inside the Sunderland half in front of the centre circle, Cresswell looks to lift the ball into the box, Little cries out in protest as she appears to be hauled to the ground by Williams but referee Jane Simms isn't interested.

  Rachel Furness is going to battle for every ball in the midfield for Sunderland, winning it drives forwards a powerful run ends with a strike from 20 yards out Hobbs throws herself to her right the ball ends up in the side netting the keeper must have got something on the ball on the way through as a corner is awarded. Barker plays the ball long from the back aiming for Sigsworth already on the move through the centre Williams goes with her the two battle for the ball the Sunderland centre back getting a toe on the ball as they enter the box to put it back to Olsen to kick clear.

Rachel Furness attacks with the ball at her feet for Sunderland

  Humphrey gets the ball from Simpkins has Sigsworth moving into space wide left again gives her the ball, turning back inside Sigsworth looks to place a looping shot into the top corner of the net drops wide of target. From a Barker throw on the left Cresswell sends a high ball into the Sunderland area, Olsen lets it bounce almost costs her as it skips off the turf threatens to loop over her throws herself up and back tips the ball wide for the corner. Doncaster play the corner in from the right cleared near post lands at Omarsdottir's feet outside the box right off goal scuffs her attempted shot however the ball comes to Rhiannon  Roberts just inside the box, before she can shoot the ball is pinched off her toe, rolls back to Kasia Lipka 25 yards out hits the ball hard back in towards goal throwing herself to her left Olsen produces a fantastic save to turn the shot over.

Doncaster's Jess Sigsworth looks to get away from Sunderland's Hayley Sharp

  Sunderland win a series of corners late in the half, two from the left two from the right, the closest of the 4 is played long to the far post Furness attacking it heads the ball onto the back of a defender to send the ball wide of goal. Up the other end Sigsworth tries to wriggle free on the right, Hayley Sharp goes with her the defender prevents her getting into the area and shooting.

Half-time Doncaster Rovers Belles 1-0 Sunderland AFC Ladies

  A narrow advantage for Doncaster at half-time in an intriguing cup tie that has seen both sides on top for extended periods in the 1st half. Good football from both sides at times some nervousness in there play too is visible. Chances created both sides willing to use the whole pitch.

  No changes at half-time as Sunderland get the 2nd half underway. The visitors start on the offensive the ball is played up to Chaplin her shot is blocked 20 yards from goal spins out for a throw on the left side. The ball is put up into the box from the throw falls favourably for Hill to attack it can't squeeze her shot away, the ball is cleared into the middle of the half, Doncaster give away a free kick. 35 yards out central, Staniforth is over the ball sends the ball up to the face of the box, Doncaster's right back Rachel Newborough heads the ball away from danger. The ball is reclaimed on the left as Doncaster try to clear the box lifted back into the mix Williams still in there, holds the ball up on the penalty spot before laying it off to Chaplin to the left of goal looks to place it top corner, just over.

Lucy Staniforth on the attack for Sunderland AFC Ladies

  Cresswell has switched sides at the start of the 2nd half now over on the right side gets ahead of play as Doncaster work the ball up the left side Barker onto Humphrey before being swept long looking for Cresswell moving to get into the area, Olsen comes and claims the ball keeps hold it it as Cresswell ends up on of her. 

  A mix up between the Doncaster centre backs getting attracted to the same ball put up from the back left side sees them both on the ground as the ball pops loose running to Ramshaw bursting through the centre charging forwards has Barker ahead of her the defender doing well to keep herself in a position to block as she back tracks Ramshaw smashing her shot against her it's deflected away for a corner from just inside the box. 

   Little clips Staniforth as the midfield looks to spin around her inside the Doncaster half. It's Staniforth over the free kick long into the area, Furness leaps can't quite get her head on the ball. Both sides looking a threat on the counter, Sunderland get the ball forwards into Chaplin right side has Staniforth up with her gives her the ball looks to whip a cross into the Doncaster box, is cleared behind for the corner kick. Change for Sunderland before the corner is taken Joice the player off, Stephanie Roche coming on with 62 minutes played.

 GOAL! Another corner another goal Sunderland find the equaliser. Have looked to go deeper with their corners this one is played in to the back of the area for Furness to attack a central position gets up will to head the ball down, isn't cleared at it strikes a Doncaster body, lands inside the six yard box right side of goal bouncing up it's Ramshaw who lifts her leg and connects with the ball knocking it down and over the line before peeling away in celebration 1-1.

Keira Ramshaw scorer of the equalising goal for Sunderland

  Chaplin has been the furthest forwards for Sunderland for a large portion of the match, breaking away into space on the left, the diagonal ball finds it's way out to her, Roberts comes across to meet her, Chaplin tries to take the ball on get it past her into the area on the byline Roberts goes in to challenge ends up winning a goal kick off Chaplin. Roche goes on a run left side finding space as the ball is played out of the middle, receiving it get's flagged offside looked an unlucky call. Roche has another chance to put the ball in from the left as she gets it from Furness powering her way through the centre of midfield rolling it out to Roche left she whips a dangerous cross into the Doncaster area an inviting ball for Hill steaming in, too close to Hobbs the keeper stakes claim to the ball.

Sunderland's Stephanie Roche & Doncaster's Rachel Newborough battle for the ball.

  Powerful run on the ball from Sigsworth on the left side sees her shot from outside the box blocked by Sharp. A drive with the ball from Simpkins through the middle for Doncaster her shot 20 yards out is deflected into the path of Cresswell right a wild effort clears the stand behind the goal hits the Sunderland bus. Game is getting stretched scores level both sides fancy their chances of scoring again. Holmes does well up against Cresswell to head a long cross away from the left with both running towards goal.

Doncaster Rovers Belles, Sophie Barker

 Doncaster make their 1st change bringing on Pacheco for her debut replacing Newborough, sees a positional change as the versatile Barker switches to right back with Pacheco taking over at left back. Roche comes away with the ball after a challenge in the centre plays it long for Hill, Little is with her manages to play the ball back to Hobbs. 2nd sub for Doncaster as Lipka comes off, Samantha Tierney the player coming on. Both keepers are first to claim a through ball, Hobbs off Chaplin, Olsen gathers as Simpkins tries to play Humphrey through into her area. 10 minutes left to play. Omarsdottir out on the left looks to pick out Cresswell breaking into the box on the right, Holmes gets in front of her to head clear.

  GOAL! The clearance from Holmes is reclaimed by Doncaster as they push bodies forwards comes to Sigsworth out left side deep in the Sunderland half the cross is played long again to the far post Cresswell is still out there only this time she is unmarked the delivery is pinpoint as she leaps up to nod the ball into the ball of the net from close range to see Doncaster retake the lead with 7 minutes left 2-1. 

Lauren Cresswell scores on her return to the club

  Little time left to find a response and the goal has flattened Sunderland, they look to push forwards Staniforth attempts to send Chaplin away down the right, Doncaster lifted find an extra half a yard of pace to close the ball down. Furness won't be shoved off the ball as she drives through the middle unleashes a shot is blocked by Simpkins the deflection sees the ball spin into the path of Ramshaw running forwards edge of the area Roberts lunges for the ball just about gets her toes on it to take it away from Ramshaw.

  Into injury time Doncaster give away a corner right side, Roberts puts the initial ball behind for another corner at the near post. The 2nd corner goes long Sharp meets it with her head looks to send the ball back across goal the ball drops wide of goal. Humphrey is replaced in the closing seconds Yasmin Mosby getting on just as the final whistle blows and it's Doncaster who can celebrate a win at last as they beat Sunderland 2-1 to book their quarter final spot in the 2016 Continental Tyres Cup.

  A lively contest with both sides putting in alot to close the ball down and use the pitches width. The result could really have gone either way, both sides had extended periods in the match where they dominated, created chances in the end it was Doncaster who edged it.

  The sides joining Doncaster in the quarter finals are as follows with all the 1st Round ties completed. Holders Arsenal Ladies are through after beating Reading FC Women 3-1. The same scoreline for last season's beaten finalists Notts County Ladies 3-1 away to Yeovil Town Ladies. The final will be played at Manchester City Women's Academy Stadium this year and they were in ruthless form away to Aston Villa Ladies winning 8-0.

  Liverpool Ladies came out on top in the Merseyside derby beating Everton Ladies 1-0. Whilst Birmingham City Ladies beat Oxford United Women 2-0. At least one FAWSL 2 side was guaranteed a quarter final place with Sheffield FC Ladies hosting Bristol City Women on Saturday, it's Sheffield going through winning the game 2-0. However they aren't the only FAWSL 2 side through London Bees join them as they cause one of the biggest upsets in the history of the Continental Tyres Cup beating Chelsea Ladies the Champions on penalties having held them to a 3-3 draw after extra time, Chelsea down to 10 players after Gilly Flaherty was sent off.

  Will be an interesting draw for the quarter finals of the Continental Tyres Cup. Enjoyed the game and maybe.. just maybe summer has arrived.

*UPDATE* The draw for the quarter finals of the Continental Tyres Cup was made this Monday morning as is as listed below: - 

  Arsenal Ladies v Notts County Ladies

Manchester City Women v Doncaster Rovers Belles

Birmingham City Ladies v Liverpool Ladies

Sheffield FC Ladies v London Bees

Ties to be played 6th/7th August

  

Match Report - Oxford United Women v Yeovil Town Ladies

  A Thursday evening trip down to Abingdon United FC to watch another game from FAWSL 2 with Oxford United Women playing host to league leaders Yeovil Town Ladies.

Oxford United Women finished 6th in the FAWSL 2 table in 2015 and would be looking to improve and push for the top half of the table this time around. League form this season hasn't gone as well as they would have liked picking up just the two wins from 7 league matches played to date. Brought Ini Umotong in from Portsmouth FC Ladies at the start of the season to add strength and a goal threat up top has scored 6 times in 8 games played to date, elsewhere in the side goals have been hard to come by. Closing in on the mid point of the season face a tough test tonight as they welcome FAWSL 2 leaders Yeovil Town Ladies to Abingdon. Have added some more depth to their squad during the mid-season transfer period bringing in Chelsea duo Jenna Legg and Laura Rafferty on loan.

  A 4th placed finish for Yeovil Town Ladies in 2015 and with 2 more promotion places to FAWSL 1 they are amongst the favourites to clinch one. Are the current leaders with 19 from 8 matches played, with 6 wins a draw and loss. 2 points clear of 2nd placed Bristol City WFC with a game in hand have a chance to open up a 5 point gap with a win. Have been scoring the goals too 19 spread amongst the team with Sarah Wiltshire currently being overlooked by the Welsh National team scoring 9 of those. Have signed goalkeeper Beth Howard on a short term deal to provide added cover for goalkeepers Charlotte Haynes and Charlotte Johnson. Another player to join is Kelly Aldridge a prolific goalscorer for Cardiff City Ladies last season.

  Hit the road early for the long journey down from Norfolk to Abingdon United FC where Oxford United Women play their home matches. The pitch looked in very good condition the grass perhaps a little long a warm evening dry but with a few dark clouds overhead as the two sides walked out.

  Oxford United Women starting XI - Hannah Cox, Jess Frampton, Laura Rafferty, Rosanna Lane, Laura Nichol, Lauren Haynes (C), Ella Franklin-Fraiture, Holly Pickett, Madison Lee, Lauren Allison & Ini Umotong.
  subs - Demi Lambourne, Sophie Baker, Charlotte Deeley,  Mollie Dyer, Ellie Noble & Georgia Timms.

  Yeovil Town Ladies starting XI - Charlotte Haynes, Lauren Townsend, Nicola Cousins, Hannah Short, Helen Bleazard, Ellie Curson (C), Stephanie Williams, Nadia Lawrence, Ellis Hillman, Sarah Wiltshire & Atlanta Primus.
  subs - Charlotte Johnson, Kelly Snook, Anne-Marie Heatherson, Emily Donovan, Natasha Knapman & Kelly Aldridge.

  It's Yeovil to kick off the game 1st half wearing their away kit a two tone gray coloured shirt lighter torso with dark grey sleeves, green around the collar, black shorts with black and green hooped socks with Oxford lined up opposite wearing yellow shirts, with navy socks and shorts. Sarah Wiltshire is fouled clipped on the ankle right from the off Oxford conceding the free kick just beyond the centre circle. The ball is played long into the box, bounces wide out of play not troubling goalkeeper Hannah Cox.

  GOAL! Oxford take an early lead as they counter attack, Yeovil are pushed up on halfway as Ella Franklin-Fraiture plays a long ball out from the back on the right side with well placed to break beyond the defence to latch onto the ball an sprint with it up towards the penalty box, can't be caught as Yeovil goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes comes racing out to the corner of the area to meet her, Umotong slides the ball past her and it rolls into the back of the empty net 1-0 inside 3 minutes.

  Oxford have started well Umotong's power and strength causing Yeovil a few problems is played in through the middle a few minutes later carrying the ball on under challenge from Yeovil's Nicola Cousins still manages to get a shot away edge of the area, doesn't make a good connection with the shot rolls wide of the mark.

Ini Umotong's power and pace causing Yeovil problems early on

 Yeovil are trying to get the ball out to the players providing width Wiltshire over on the left, Ellis Hillman on the right of attack, the long balls swept out to them not finding their mark. Yeovil win a corner on the left side the ball is swung in towards the near post Atlanta Primus going up for it with Cox coming to punch gets the ball past her is cleared off the goal line out for a throw. An Oxford player is down in the box play is stopped for the trainer to come on Madison Lee is unable to continue Georgia Timms is the substitute.

  A ragged start from Yeovil a little rattled with Umotong posing a threat through the middle, lays the ball out to Lauren Allison attacking down the right wing, crosses from a deep position a high ball lofted into the six yard box, Haynes is able to claim with no one challenging for the ball. A free kick awarded to Yeovil on half way is played long by Helen Bleazard looking for Hannah Short far side of the area gets her head to the ball knocked down into the box Oxford regain the ball a launch a rapid counter with Franklin-Fraiture once more looking to play the cross field ball long for Umotong ready to burst clear with the ball heading for the right corner of the area again scuffs the shot this time rolls harmlessly wide.

  A throw for Yeovil on the left inside the Oxford half finds it's way through to Wiltshire 25 yards out from goal hits the shot on the bounce on target going across the Oxford goal Cox diving full stretch produces a magnificent save pushing the ball wide for a corner kick. 

  Oxford are conceding several free kicks in the midfield giving another away gives Bleazard an opportunity to play the ball into the area central to goal smashes the ball into the Oxford wall spins away to the right is picked up by Primus who attacks the Oxford defence powering her way forwards unleashes a shot that has Cox scrambling to her left but the ball ends up in the side netting.

  Timms gets forwards with the ball for Oxford let's fly from 25 yards out her shot blacked by Short on the edge of her area. Nadia Lawrence brings the ball out for Yeovil through the middle plays a good diagonal ball out to Hillman on the right, getting onto the ball drives forwards looking to get in behind Oxford's defence get into the area, Jess Frampton tackles well to put the ball out for a throw. A challenge for Yeovil to solve are finding it difficult to break down a stubborn Oxford defence in the opening 20 minutes.

Oxford United WFC left back Jess Frampton

  GOAL! Oxford double their lead mid way through the 1st half and it's another for Umatong as she is picked out with another fantastic pass from deep as Oxford regain the ball, the striker flicks the ball on leaving a defender in her wake bursting forwards only one thing on her mind, Bleazard attempts to get round on the cover, Umotong evades her challenge as Haynes starts to come again Umotong shoots the ball rolling in off the post to make it 2-0.

 GOAL! An instant response from Yeovil as they pull a goal back quickly after going 2-0 down. Getting the ball down the other end quickly from the restart win a corner kick on the left. The ball is fired in towards the near post area, Hillman is there to attack it heading the ball towards goal, Cox gets across parries the ball away knocking it up into the air, is put back across the six yard box drops perfectly for Short who jumps and puts plenty of power into her header drilling it into the back of the net 2-1.

Hannah Short scores from the corner for Yeovil Town Ladies

  Ellie Curson, Yeovil's captain get's back to break up an Oxford attack as Franklin-Fraiture looks to go beyond Umotong on the right sides in to put the ball out for a throw. Lauren Townsend is fouled for Yeovil a barge into her back the free kick given away just beyond the centre circle Bleazard sends an inviting ball into the box Primus looking to throw herself at the ball doesn't distract Cox as she takes it cleanly into her gloves on the bounce.

  Allison dos well for Oxford gets in around the defence on the right taking the ball into the area wins her side a corner kick. The ball is played high into the six yard box runners coming in to attack one is Umatong gets up will but can't keep her header down flies over the crossbar. With Umatong a threat often through the middle and right Oxford haven't always used the opposite flank to their advantage 1st half with Holly Pickett out there ready to receive the ball this time she is plays through springing the offside trap takes the ball inside before taking on the strike from 25 yards out heading for the top corner needs a fantastic save from Haynes to tip the ball over the bar for the corner kick. 

Yeovil Town Ladies, Helen Bleazard

 Bleazard steals the ball from Oxford as they come over halfway looks up has Wiltshire out on the left produces a top class ball into the middle of the area Wiltshire looks to attack it with her head can't quite get the contact to turn it past Cox. Counter from Oxford, Franklin-Fraiture with the determined run on the ball to the right corner of the area lays it across the face of the box with Timms providing the run to meet it, opens up her body to place the shot get's it through the bodies in front of her Haynes gets down and manages to block it, doesn't take the ball cleanly but snatches the loose ball into her body at the second attempt. Allison is booked as she foolishly kicks out at a Yeovil player prone on the floor after a challenge.

  Yeovil think they have equalised late in the half as Hillman coming in from the right headers home a long ball sent up into the ball from half way on the left, but the celebrations are cut short due to a raised flag for offside. Allison travels with the ball up the right attacking for Oxford, lays it into Umotong edge of the area, Short gets to her tackling well to prevent the turn and shot. Late pressure from Oxford in the 1st half possession around the Yeovil area Umotong sends the ball out to Pickett on the left deep puts it back down the line for Frampton to play the ball into the area, picks out Timms, very nearly gets the ball through the defence and goalkeeper runs the wrong side of the post. 

Holly Pickett attacking for Oxford United Women

Curson is booked as she bring's down Umotong 25 yards from goal. Pickett is over the free kick goes for the shot doesn't trouble Haynes well positioned to claim the ball. This time as they break Wiltshire coming in from the left gets her head to the ball as Bleazard picks her out with another superb pass, Wiltshire gets plenty of power on the header sends the ball back across goal but wide of the far post.  

Half-time Oxford United Women 2-1 Yeovil Town Ladies

  A fast paced and entertaining 1st half, Oxford doing well taking an early lead, Umotong through the centre proving to be a real handful to deal with, the home side have had the best of the midfield battle Franklin-Fraiture and captain Lauren Haynes marshalling the ball well. The league leaders getting an immediate response after going 2-0 have struggled to get their attackers on the ball.

   Oxford to kick off the second half. Like the 1st half the free kick is conceded straight away Curson tripping Umotong. The ball is sent long into the area with Umotong right side the target, several attempted headed clearances later the ball is put away on the right for a throw. Townsend wins Yeovil a corner on the right is played long to the far post headed behind for another corner. This one taken short is passed to Townsend who lifts the ball into the middle of the area, Laura Nichol playing right back for Oxford gets the ball clear.

Oxford United's Laura Nichol keeps Yeovil's Sarah Wiltshire away from the ball

  Cousins gets onto the ball left brings it forwards plays it on to Wiltshire takes on the early shot drilling the ball in low is deflected as Nichol blocks almost runs through to Primus attacking the opposite post but with Cox coming to close her down misses the ball rolls behind for the goal kick. Good run from Hillman on the right as she gets in behind Frampton, the defender is quick to recover and makes a good tackle to rob Hillman of the ball as she enters the area. A brighter start from Yeovil at the start of the 2nd half. 

  Haynes is back in her area to head the ball clear as Cousins sends in the cross from the left. Yeovil make a substitution Hillman the player off as new signing Kelly Aldridge comes on to make her debut for the club early in the 2nd half. Primus lifts a shot over the Oxford crossbar from 25 yards out right side of the D as she shows good strength holding off Laura Rafferty before turning and hitting the shot.

  GOAL! Yeovil get themselves back on level terms the ball is out for a throw on the right side Aldridge get's hold of the ball puts it into Curson's feet, is a long way out wide tries a speculative effort hitting the ball towards goal looping up with plenty of pace on the ball Cox reacts late is rooted to the grass as the ball drops over her and it into the goal beyond 2-2.

  On top in the opening 15 minutes of the 2nd half with the lions share of the attack Yeovil press forwards again down the left a shot is curled in from the angle has Cox back pedalling across her goal but the ball drops past her far post. Cousins up the left lifts her cross up into the box, Oxford don't clear it drops to Townsend just inside the area, is closed down quickly no room to turn plays the ball to Short her attempt at goal is blocked Oxford launch it up the pitch Umatong has the pace to get onto the end of the ball 30 yards out is going to get closed down tries to go for the lob send the ball over Haynes her attempt is wild spins away from goal.

  An eye of the needle pass (insert your name here because I didn't see who) from Yeovil's midfield almost sees Wiltshire making a great run into the box in on goal, Cox alert get's there just in the nick of time sliding in to take the ball off the strikers toe. Franklin-Fraiture puts the block in to regain possession of the ball for Oxford then passes to Umotong breaking on the right smashes her shot on the angle wide across the face of goal. Williams goes into the referee's book for supposedly pulling back Umatong after an advantage is played. Primus playing through the middle rolls the ball in behind for Wiltshire coming into the box from the left, Rosanna Lane puts in the tackle to win the ball.

  Lawrence up on the left as Yeovil attack has the ball rolled into her spins away from her marker and is clear in behind up the wing plays the pass square to Wiltshire inside the area left of goal goes for the shot too much lift sends it over the bar. Yeovil are getting better joy down the channels 2nd half Wiltshire and Aldridge able to get closer to Primus in the centre, whilst up the other end are preventing Umotong getting the ball as often, a physical game a few are carrying knocks.

Yeovil Town Ladies, Nadia Lawrence

  The ball played long from the back is headed on by Wiltshire with Lawrence benefiting as she runs in behind left of the area comes inside before taking on the shot, aiming near post Cox gets down pushes the ball behind for the corner. In the six yard box Williams tries to get something on the ball but can't get it through the crowd Oxford clear. Another long ball up to Primus sees her in a battle with Rafferty to get into the area the defender staying on her and putting in a great tackle inside the D. 

  Substitution for Oxford as they bring on Ellie Noble for Allison with a little over 20 minutes left to play. Yeovil make a change too Williams coming off to be replaced by Natasha Knapman. Oxford break with Franklin-Fraiture getting on the ball again spraying the play wide to Umatong peeling away on the right looks to take on the early shot slices her foot across the ball takes it away from goal. 

Atlanta Primus and Ella Franklin-Fraiture battle for the ball

  Both sides are pushing in attack late in the game, Wiltshire runs clear on the left the ball played into her run shoots early the effort lacks both powers and height allowing Cox to gather easily near post. Wiltshire comes very close moments later the ball put into her feet on the edge of the box linking up with Aldridge the shot is put in heading for the top corner is narrowly wide. Emily Donovan is Yeovil's last substitution replacing Lawrence 10 minutes left to play. 

   Aldridge has the ball at her feet driving towards the Yeovil goal right side hits the shot on the run getting it away just before Lane can get her tackle in, Cox parries the shot behind for a corner kick. Is a good ball into the box from the corner, into the six yard box, plenty of bodies around, Rafferty heads clear the ball is fired back into the box but by then Oxford have cleared their lines Yeovil's attackers are caught offside. 

  Aldridge has made an impact since coming on has the ball deep again let's fly with a strike from distance Cox dives to her left is beaten the ball smashes against the post the rebound taking it across the face of goal, Donovan is free far side open goal to aim at looks to place it over power back across, Cox recovers spectacularly to get back on her feet and leap forwards to stop the ball crossing the line out for another corner kick. 

  Short fouls Umotong in the middle of the Yeovil half players come forwards for the free kick is sent in towards the left side of the area for players to attack Haynes comes for it and is left on the floor hurt as sh collides with Short, Rafferty heads the ball into the back of the net but the goal is disallowed. Haynes needs treatment but is back on her feet as the game moves into injury time.

  Oxford play an inviting ball forwards from the left side Umotong is after it as Haynes comes to gather on the edge of her area, is a heavy collision between the pair that leaves both floored and in alot pf pain. Umotong slowly gets back to her feet, no such good news for Haynes the goalkeeper has hardly moved the stretcher is called for and she is carried from the pitch unable to continue. All there subs used it's Bleazard who dons the keepers jersey and takes up position between the posts. 

  With an outfield player in goal in the final moments Oxford look to press test Bleazard's skills out, her team mates have other ideas and battle hard to keep the ball from getting anywhere near their box as the game draws to a close and the referee ends a cracking game the points shared as it ends 2-2.

  A battling display from Oxford did very well 1st half to get themselves a 2 goal lead, Umotong causing the Yeovil defence all sorts of problems, pulling it back to 2-1 Yeovil fought their way back, sorted a few things out at half-time and came out the stronger side pulling the scores level, had chances to take all 3 points will have a few sore bodies the next day, an entertaining game to watch. Yeovil are 3 points clear at the top as they reach the halfway mark of the season, same again and they will be celebrating promotion. 

  A little later than normal getting the report published so an update on goalkeeper Charlotte Haynes was taken to hospital for a precautionary x-ray thankfully nothing is broken as her rehab begins and I wish her well in her recovery.

Match Report - Watford Ladies v Everton Ladies

  After almost a month off the Supporting Women's Football Blog is back with a new match report and a writer rested up (much needed) and ready to go again. The FAWSL resume too this weekend after it's own mid-season break. Starting with a match form FAWSL 2 with unbeaten Everton Ladies currently 3rd in the table after 6 matches played travelling down south to play bottom side Watford Ladies, still searching for their 1st league win of the season.

  A tough campaign for Watford Ladies last season and this season has seen just as tough a start on the pitch with just the 1 point gained in 6 matches at the start of a season that has seen a lot of changes behind the scenes a new general manger, Ellie Kemp along with a new 1st team manger Katie Rowson, the club has seen a lot of player movement in and out too. Back to the football after the mid-season break a win today would do wonders for the players confidence.

  A tough ask however as they welcome Everton Ladies to Berkhamsted FC, currently 3rd in the FAWSL 2 table undefeated before the mid-season break with 4 wins and 2 draws from 6 games played. Andy Spence has returned to the role of 1st team manager after stepping down from the role during the 2015 season and the Merseyside club are amongst the favourites to clinch one of the two promotion spots this time around. If results go there way today they could go top of the table.

  The venue for today's match Berkhamsted FC, don't get down here as much as I should, a picturesque part of the country well worth a look around before taking in the game. You can park in the Waitrose supermarket carpark on the other side of the canal from the ground, which by crossing over the canal is a short walk away. The weather has as it's been all through the 1st half of 2016 been unpredictable, was a bright sunny day, with the odd dark cloud lurking, was armed with all the eventualities as usual, umbrella and sun cream both in the bottom of my bag. The pitch looked in good condition albeit the grass looked a little on the long side.

  Watford Ladies starting XI - Lucy Gillett, Nicole Pepper, Anneka Nuttall (C), Ruby Baxter, Molly Burgess, Jordan Littleboy, Ellie Mason, Giulia Ferrandi, Anne-Laure Davy, Charlotte Kerr & Katie Stanley.
  subs - Victoria Wooton, Sahara Osborne-Rickets & Sophie Cheadle

  Everton Ladies starting XI - Kirsty Levell, Vicky Jones, Gabrielle George, Georgia Brougham, Ellie Stewart, Michelle Hinnigan (C), Megan Finnigan, Millie Turner, Kelly Jones, Danielle Turner & Claudia Walker.
  subs -  Jennifer Myler, Jenna Dear, Faye Bryson, Emily Hollinshead, Krystle Johnston & Lauren Davies.

  Saw Watford Ladies in action shortly before the mid-season break playing at Vicarage Road, against London Bees the result went against them that night but they did have two new signings in their side Italian Giulia Ferrandi and Anne-Laure Davy. Both were starting today as well as Ruby Baxter who was making her debut at centre back. Everton Ladies had a new signing starting on the bench for them to, with Krystle Johnston ending a short stint at Sunderland AFC Ladies, joining the club.

   It's the visitors Everton to kick off the 1st half, start on the offensive Vicky Jones linking up with her twin sister Kelly on the right side of the pitch as the full back drives up the wing  plays the inside to her twin outside the box right of goal let's fly with a shot driven in low is blocked by Molly Burgess in the Watford defence, cleared out into the midfield retrieved by Everton played back into Kelly Jones shoots again same position aiming near post, Watford goalkeeper Lucy Gillett gets down low and blacks to make the save the ball deflected up and over the goal for a corner. The corner from the right comes in towards the near post Gillett coming for the ball throws herself forwards gathering the ball into her body.

  Everton are pressing Watford for the ball inside their own half early on and winning possession look to attack quickly, Megan Finnigan winning the ball in the centre passes it into Kelly Jones ahead of her, Claudia Walker is on her shoulder looking to burst in behind, Jones almost picks her out Watford manage to intercept the pass. Danielle Turner on the left side attacking for Everton plays two crosses into the Watford area in quick succession, the 1st is claimed by Gillett the 2nd cut out by Burgess put out for a throw.

   Everton captain Michelle Hinnigan brings the ball on through the middle goes for the shot on goal 20 yards out, smashing it in low is blocked by a defender, runs on for Gillett to get across to collect beyond. The visitors are showing good movement off the ball went it is won back pushing forwards and moving into space to be able to receive the ball, spread play try to stretch their opponents.

Watford Ladies, Katie Stanley

  Watford have Katie Stanley leading the line in attack today, is prepared to go after long balls hasn't had much to feed on in the opening exchanges. Giulia Ferrandi gets hold of the ball just over half way plays it long a diagonal ball right to the left side with Charlotte Gurr getting onto the end of it 20 yards out left of the D shoots the ball is deflected off Vicky Jones as she flings herself across to block in front of Kerr, the ball looping up hangs in the air, Stanley is there in amongst the Everton defenders 8 yards out tries to head the ball past goalkeeper Kirsty Levell but stretching for it can't make strong enough contact, Levell catches the ball.

Watford Ladies Giulia Ferrandi with Everton Ladies Kelly Jones

   Counter attack from Everton as they bring the ball out over the halfway line is played out to Danielle Turner bombing forwards on the left whips the cross in early along the face of the Watford box, Hinnigan coming towards the ball hits it 1st time sweeping it towards goal races along the ground out for a goal kick a foot wide of the post.

  GOAL! 16 minutes on the clock and Everton have the lead, comes from a speculative strike from distance from the boot of Claudia Walker the ball played into her some 25 yards or more out, turns and pulls the trigger, the ball coming in low goes through Gillett as she dives to her right and nestles in the back of the net. 0-1.

Claudia Walker with Watford Ladies Ruby Baxter opens the scoring for Everton  Ladies

  Stanley continues to go after the ball played long up top from the right this time the high ball is dropped into the area wide of goal Stanley does well to win her side a corner, the ball put into the six yard box from the right is headed clear to the edge of the area, drops favourably for Jordan Littleboy, whose eyes must light up as she has the opportunity to smash in a shot, just doesn't get a good connection with the ball, is knocked back into the advancing defenders.

  GOAL! Penalty! Littleboy's attempted shot is knocked out of the area, Watford press play it back into the Everton area a hand ball is seen and the referee points to the spot. Ellie Mason is the Watford player to step up and take it. Goes for power the rising ball beating the diving Levell and smashing down off the crossbar drops into the back of the net to see the home side equalise a couple on minutes after conceding 1-1.

Watford Ladies equalise from the penalty spot,

  Another good pass from halfway by Ferrandi almost sees Stanley pushing through the centre get in behind the Everton defence to run clear on goal, Levell however is high in her box and in a very good starting position to get out of her area and kick clear with Stanley a yard away inside the D. Mason stealing in on the ball runs with it before striking from distance is well held by Levell.

Ellie Mason scorer of Watford Ladies penalty kick

  The equalising goal has lifted Watford they are pressing Everton for the ball, one or two rash challenges are coming in as a result and the Everton players are unhappy the referee isn't pulling them up for it. Vicky Jones get's forwards on the right for Everton comes inside 25 yards from goal unleashes a shot, is blocked by Burgess runs behind for a corner kick. The ball is played in high Ellie Stewart up from the back jump highest, can't get a clean header the ball played on is cleared by Watford. Hinnigan pushing forwards to join the attack as Everton break down the left side jumps near post can't get her head to the ball to turn it home.

   Again Everton come down the left side Gabrielle George from left back into Danielle Turner taking the ball down the line crosses playing the ball into Walker coming to the ball inside the box looks to let the ball roll across her body shielding it as she sends it on into the middle Hinnigan is there again, under challenge from Baxter squeezes a shot in towards goal lacks any pace, Gillett gets down to it and saves.

Everton Ladies captain,  Michelle Hinnigan

   A little niggle has crept into the game both sides unhappy with decisions are complaining, Everton seem to be letting it get to them a little lack the composure on the ball they had in the opening 20 minutes. Not that they aren't putting in the tackles themselves and Watford are unhappy with the odd refereeing decision too, Stanley's complaints going too far and play is stopped as she is told to calm down. The referee has to show the yellow card not long after as Watford captain Anneka Nuttall playing at left back lunges in to bring down Kelly Jones as she looks to attack down the wing.

  A competitive contest end to end as the game moves into the closing minutes of the 1st half, Everton are pushing numbers forwards putting the Watford back line under pressure Walker going out to the left side of the area closes down a clearance getting hold of the ball shoots from the angle blasts the ball into the side netting. 

  A free kick is awarded to Everton wide on the left 30 yards out, Hinnigan and Stewart over the ball, the former plays it short to the latter who sends the ball long towards the far post, Millie Turner is there moving back to head the ball down towards goal hits Baxter goes behind, however the linesman's flag is raised for offside. Up the other end Everton make a mess of dealing with a long ball flung high into the area by Watford from the left Levell calls for it as Vicky Jones looks to head clear the two collide leaving Jones floored the ball is loose in the six yard box Everton manage to smuggle it clear before Watford capitalise.

  The break in play whilst Jones receives treatment gives manager Andy Spence a chance to calm his players down, get back to playing to football that they were playing at the start of the game. Not many seconds left to play in the 1st half Walker picks up the ball on half way and head down goes on the drive carrying it on before unleashing a shot 25 yards out, a great effort sails narrowly over the crossbar.

Half-time Watford Ladies 1-1 Everton Ladies

  An entertaining 1st half of football, Everton Ladies started very strongly showing good movement on and off the ball, creating chances and taking the lead on 16 minutes against the side bottom of the league. You wonder then how would Watford respond, got an early opportunity to level thing's up with the penalty well struck by Mason and from then on have competed well disrupting Everton's game.

   Watford to kick off the 2nd half. Go long straight from the kick off the ball sent into the Everton box safely into Levell's gloves. Attacking Everton bring the ball out from the back George is ahead of Danielle Turner on the left at the start of the second half the ball is played on to Walker moving out to that side wide attempts the square the cross along the face of the area, Mason tracking back gets to the ball 1st to intercept and set up a counter attack.

  Everton send the ball long from a free kick inside their own half for Walker to go after, Baxter is with her as Gillett comes racing out of her area sliding in she misses the ball as it is deflected to to her left, Walker attempting to go after it is impeded by the Watford goalkeeper stops her getting the ball, the referee blows up for the free kick, a decision to make the keeper is called back and is lucky to receive a yellow, Baxter would was around her covering. Right side of the box 25 yards out Stewart strikes the free kick hard and low into the area runs across the box and out for a goal kick.

  From a good attacking position Everton are forced to play the ball back by Watford pressing them 60 yards all the way back to Levell whose clearance isn't great goes straight to Anne-Laure Davy a good way out goes for goal trying to lob Levell who is off her line back pedalling the shot is off target over the bar. Davy has another opportunity to strike at goal soon after as Watford hustle Everton for the ball takes control of it 30 yards out before pulling the shot wide of target.

  10 minutes into the 2nd half and the visitors make a change with new signing Krystle Johnston coming on to make her debut for Everton replacing Millie Turner. Joining Walker in attack the two look to play a one two with the ball played into Walker on halfway, she turns rolling it out to Johnston on her right, Walker running on wants the ball played into her path, Johnston does just that, 20 yards out central Walker takes on the shot the ball drilled in low rolls wide of goal.

  Kelly Jones very nearly restores Everton's lead in the match but for some composed goalkeeping from Gillett. The attack starting as the ball is rolled into Johnston on the right plays the ball down the line for Walker running in behind the Watford defence crosses the ball into the box early with Jones racing through the middle Gillett comes to her they are a yard apart as Jones looks to play the ball past the keeper who gets her glove to the ball and stops the shot.

Everton Ladies, Kelly Jones

  Is an open game now with both sides winning challenges and looking to take the ball on, the niggle that started in the middle of the 1st half is still present, free kicks being given away. Kerr goes on a driving run with the ball at her feet looking to close into the area her strike is blocked by Stewart the loose ball reclaimed by Ferrandi outside the area left of the goal shoots wide.

  Up the other end Johnston carries the ball forwards blasts her shot from 20 yards out into Baxter putting her body in the way of the shot. A similar chance for Hinnigan to he one she had in the 1st half as George wins Everton a throw deep on the left, the ball is helped on by Walker towards Hinnigan waiting just inside the box central strikes the shot 1st time aiming for the bottom corner runs the wrong side of the post. 

Gabrielle George on the ball for Everton Ladies.

  Walker goes after a long ball played down the right channel into the box, Gillett comes out of her goal attempting to get there 1st is left stranded as Walker cuts back inside, has no support inside the box Watford have defenders back covering the goal, Walker plays the ball back out towards Kelly Jones rushing forwards goes for goal puts the shot wide. Bringing the ball down inside the Watford half Hinnigan controls well before threading a pass between the Watford defence into the box with Walker giving chase getting in behind wide left lays the ball out wide with Danielle Turner well positioned to deliver the cross into the box sends it long to the far post Nuttall gets up to head the ball away.

  GOAL! A sucker punch for Everton as they push forwards looking to find the lead are hit on the counter attack and it's Watford who celebrate as they get there noses in front. The ball is sent up field out towards the left side with Kerr the player furthest forwards, Levell comes charging out  towards the ball throwing herself at it attempting to get their 1st, instead Kerr does sending a stunning shot over the keeper and into the back of the net 2-1.

Charlotte Kerr with Everton's Megan Finnigan scores to give Watford the lead.

   15 minutes left on the clock can Watford hold on as Everton respond by making a substitution Jenna Dear coming on for Finnigan. Win a free kick a good 35 yards out from goal the ball is sent up into the box Stewart gets her head on the ball turning it on target, Gillett grabs hold of it makes the save. Everton continue to push players forwards risking more Watford counter attacks, the ball is lost Littleboy passing to Stanley 20 yards from goal goes for the 1st time shot looking to lift the ball over Levell instead places it straight into her gloves.

Watford Ladies goalkeeper, Lucy Gillett

  Stanley and Stewart both receive a yellow card each as the game moves into the final 5 minutes, as they square up inside the Everton box after the ball has been cleared by Stewart as Stanley sliding in looks to get onto the end of a long ball. An Everton free kick from the right of the pitch is swept in high into the crowded six yard box, Gillett does well to jump and claim the ball. Kelly Jones travels with the ball at her feet right side of the pitch before laying it forwards for Johnston making a move down the line swings a good ball into the box, stoops to try and get her head on the ball, doesn't make any contact the chance gone.

  Everton pile forwards players are lining up to strike at goal as Watford struggle to get the ball away bodies are being put on the line all over the place to stop the ball reaching the box, Everton trying to win it back. 

Who'd be a referee hey? Try and sort this out.

  Into injury time one last opportunity for Everton to get themselves back on level terms the ball is put out by Nuttall for a corner as Johnston turns a cross into the area. The corner comes in turned goalwards Gillett throws herself at the ball tips it over the crossbar for another corner. The delivery this time drops into the six yard box on the floor their is a scramble as Watford can't clear the ball, Brougham get her foot to it her effort spins wide for the goal kick. 

  The final whistle blows and Watford Ladies win the game 2-1 to get their 1st league win of the season. Doing well from coming back form a goal down to go on and win. A spirited performance, although Everton did have the bulk of the attack, the result will as I said in the build-up at the top of the page do wonders for their confidence. Frustrating day on the field for Everton created plenty of chances just couldn't get the ball into the back of the net as their unbeaten start to the season comes to an end stay in 3rd place but still a lot of games to be played.

  Felt good to be back, even if the note taking was a little rusty.