Match Report - Acle United Ladies v Wymondham Town Ladies

  County Cup semi-finals day in Norfolk this Sunday and the Supporting Women's Football Blog was there to watch the game between Acle United Ladies and Wymondham Town Ladies.

  Both sides doing well in their respective leagues, 2 of the 3 sides in Norfolk who play their football outside of the County league set-up. Acle United Ladies well placed to mount a challenge for the title in the ERWFL Premier Division going into the latter end of the season. Won the Norfolk Women's County Cup two season's ago have beaten Norfolk Women's Division One sides, North Walsham Angels Ladies in the 2nd Round 4-3 and King's Lynn Town Ladies 5-3 in the quarter-finals to reach the semi-finals of this years competition.

  Wymondham Town Ladies play a league below in the ERWFL Division One having been promoted as Norfolk Division One Champions last season. Doing well in their debut season playing at regional level in 3rd place in the table and have reached the semi-finals of the league cup. Awarded an away win in the 2nd Round of the County Cup beat Division Two side Stalham Town Ladies 7-1 at home to reach the last 4 of the competition. Are looking to make their 1st ever final appearance in the County Cup.

  Seen Acle United Ladies at home several times, however this is just the 2nd time I've seen them play in their regular home venue at Bridgewell Lane in Acle due to weather issues. Is part of a multi-sports complex and recreation ground home of Acle United FC too. Tennis courts, bowling club and skateboard park. Headed the the large clubhouse and bar overlooking the main pitch. Had threatened to be wet and windy this afternoon and although the wind would pick up later in the game it was actually bright and sunny as the two sides walked out onto the pitch.

  Acle United Ladies starting XI - Joanne Hooper, Anna Larkins, Luka Goodfield, Megan Cletheroe, Leah McGuire, Kate Pasque, Chloe Shields, Amber Rowland, Lauren Bullard, Megan Todd & Rebecca Burton (C).
  subs - Jade Copeman, Jody Wells & Bryony Knights

  Wymondham Town Ladies starting XI - Ashleigh O'Callaghan, Leah Newcombe, Brooke Cheal-Ferris, Bethany Fretwell, Lily Ray, Rachel Cossey (C), Amber Cantwell, Kayleigh Holloway, Gemma Sanders, Alice Collins & Laura Wiseman.
  subs - Laura Nicholls, Chelsea Clarke & Laura Hamilton-Rout.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It's Wymondham wearing red shirts with black trim, red shorts and red and white hooped sock to kick off the semi-final game with Acle lined up opposite wearing black and white vertical striped shirts, black shorts with black and white hooped socks. The ball is out wide early on Wymondham looking to attack down the left Kayleigh Holloway looking to take the ball on is tackled by Anna Larkins at right back for Acle, the ball played forwards up to captain Rebecca Burton is knocked out wide to Megan Todd on the right pushes inside looking to get into the Wymondham area, Brooke Cheal-Ferris makes the challenge wins the ball.

Kayleigh Holloway looking to attack for Wymondham Town Ladies

  Progress on the right for Wymondham the ball played forwards down the channel Gemma Sanders going after it get's in behind the Acle defence lunging for the ball sends it in towards the middle of the six yard box with striker Laura Wiseman well placed to meet it, Larkins gets across in front of her to knock the ball wide of goal and behind for the corner kick. A good inswinging ball from the right side Acle goalkeeper, Joanne Hooper punches the ball away from under her crossbar, defender Leah McGuire clears the ball from the area.

 

Acle's Kate Pasque tackles Wymondham's Laura Wiseman

   Amber Cantwell on the ball in the middle of the park for Wymondham drives forwards is fouled 35 yards from goal, picks herself up to take the free-kick players forwards from the back flights the delivery towards the far post area six yards out Bethany Fretwell goes for the header can't get anything on the ball as it drifts out of play. A good start from Wymondham, Holloway looks to get away on the right, Kate Pasque tracks her from midfield for Acle stops the early cross, Holloway's 2nd attempt floors defender Megan Cletheroe the ball catching her in the face, play is stopped so she can receive treatment is alright to continue.

  Amber Rowland plays the ball out to Lauren Bullard on the move wide left for Acle covers alot of ground before cutting inside rolling the ball into Pasque 35 yards out lines up a shot sends her effort over the crossbar. Bringing the ball on up the left for Wymondham, Holloway looks for the give and go with Wiseman coming across to receive the ball, Wiseman attempts to send the return ball into Holloway as she goes beyond the full back, Larkins reading the move intercepts and plays it up the line to Todd a powerful runner on the ball goes in field heading to the box left of the D checks back and shoots the ball straight at Wymondham goalkeeper, Ashleigh O'Callaghan who catches cleanly.

Acle United Ladies, Anna Larkins

   Todd finds herself in a central position as Acle break up a Wymondham attack the ball played into her by Rowland she brings it on before firing it into Burton inside the D, back to goal she turns well looking to shoot the Wymondham defence close her down quickly the ball put behind for a corner kick on the left. Is a relatively open game both sides looking to attack with purpose whenever they have the ball Wiseman moving wide right to receive the ball plays it on for Sanders moving ahead of her her ball into the area going long towards the far post Holloway goes after it looks to cut back inside is dispossessed Acle look to counter attack Burton gets the ball on for Todd who takes it on into the right corner before crossing the ball back into Burton at the top of the area the striker dink the ball over the Wymondham defence, goalkeeper O'Callaghan calls for it spills the ball is Pasque bares down on her, but manages to turn and get her body between the Acle player and ball claim at the 2nd attempt. 

  Good hold up play from Alice Collins up front for Wymondham right side as she looks to get Sanders in on the ball the winger clipped and brought down as she looks to take the ball on. Cantwell on the ball wide right lofts the ball in towards the near post Hooper isn't challenged as she claims the ball well. Chloe Shields goes on a forwards run with the ball for Acle through the middle moving left then right into the box sending the ball on with Todd clear to her left O'Callaghan comes sliding out to get the ball as Todd throws herself forwards trying to get to it 1st knocks the ball on into the keeper and behind for the corner. Is a vicious deliver from the left flashing through the six yard box no one can connect however.

  Shields gives away a free-kick inside the Acle half right of the centre circle Cantwell has Cheal-Ferris free to her left rolls the ball into her takes on the shot from distance, Hooper can see the ball wide of her left post. Few strong challenges coming in but the players are getting on with it. Todd is late on Cantwell as she attacks down the left the free-kick conceded it's Cantwell to take. The ball is played in towards the far post area six yards out both Wymondham's Fretwell and Acle's Pasque go up to head the ball neither getting a firm connection it drops to Wymondham's captain Rachel Cossey gets her header on target places the ball straight into the gloves of Hooper.

Acle United Ladies, Amber Rowland with Wymondham's Amber Cantwell

  Rowland fighting for the ball in the middle wins it and plays the ball on for Bullard on the left drives forwards Wymondham right back Lily Ray goes with her close marking prevents the cross being made. A good contest all over the pitch the sides closely matched with 5 minutes of the 1st half left to play.

 GOAL! Acle break the deadlock in the County Cup semi-final a goal from back to front as Hooper kicks the ball forwards sending it up towards Bullard on the left near half way controls well bringing it on comes inside passing the ball into Todd inside the D central a fantastic 1st touch to take the ball on evade her marker behind her back to goal turns left and shoots, O'Callaghan has no time to react the ball flying past her inside the post Todd scores to give Acle the lead 1-0.

Megan Todd on the ball for Acle scores the opening goal of the match

  Ray has taken a knock for Wymondham and needs to come off, Chelsea Clarke comes on a switch of personnel Sanders drops to right back as Holloway switches wings, Clarke over to the left side. Larkins challenges for the ball inside the Wymondham half sends the ball in towards the top of the area with Burton coming in stretches for the ball trying to bring it down under her control, doesn't and Bullard coming in beyond her may have been better placed, hurt as she falls Burton needs treatment but is okay to play on. 

  Into injury time in the 1st half Acle finish strongly Rowland playing the ball on for Burton through the middle slides it through into the area with Todd breaking in behind, O'Callaghan out of her six yard box quickly slides in to claim the ball. Pasque is fouled as she looks to power her way forwards. Rowland on the set-piece plays in up towards the top of the area Shields attacks the ball gets her header on target a good distance from goal O'Callaghan has time to get across behind the ball and save.

Half-time Acle United Ladies 1-0 Wymondham Town Ladies

 A competitive semi-final in the Norfolk Women's County Cup but expected it would be, two sides determined to reach the final. Wymondham started the game well and had the bulk of the early attacks. A fierce battle in midfield wide both sides have wanted to use their wide players but on the whole the full-backs have kept them quiet. As Acle grew into the game and Todd started to drift into more central areas the home side started to create a few opportunities of their own. Todd scoring the goal to give Acle the advantage going into the changing rooms at the break. 

 It's Acle to kick-off the 2nd half the sun has disappeared behind dark clouds the wind starting to pick up a little. A fast tempo to the start of the 2nd half an early free-kick for Wymondham, inside the Acle half the ball played into the area by Cantwell is claimed by Hooper. Up the other end Burton is knocked to the ground as the ball cleared by the Wymondham defence in the area catches her in the face. A pause for treatment Acle's captain is okay to continue. Rowland presses the ball in the middle, on for Pasque out to Bullard wide left looks to pick out Burton making a move to get into the box she is closed down quickly the ball cleared for a throw. 

  A throw in on the left inside the Wymondham half Goodfield plays the ball into Burton returning it to Goodfield the full back plays the ball up the channel with Bullard looking to get on the end of it inside the box, O'Callaghan is quickly out to the edge of her area to slide in a claim the ball. Wymondham get players forwards win a corner on the left a high ball in towards the top of the area is too high for Collins as she jumps for it over her there a cries for hand ball inside the box off Bullard as the ball comes into her bouncing in front of her she clears it the referee isn't interested. 

Acle's, Todd leaps as Wymondham's Cantwell closes her down to win the ball

  The visitors are doing well at the start of the 2nd half Cantwell going forwards receives the ball from Wiseman holding it up back to goal outside the area, played out wide left for Holloway the winger goes forwards squaring a cross into the area headed behind for a corner. Todd defends the 1st corner for Acle a 2nd corner given away the ball is played up to the top of the area Fretwell gets her head to the ball puts her header over the bar. 

 Cheal-Ferris has the opportunity to bring the ball forwards over the half way line for Wymondham left side is brought down the free-kick given away Cantwell is a long way from goal sends the ball in bouncing into the area, controlled by Clarke gets a shot away angling near post lacks pace Hooper is able to get down and make the save. Wymondham are pushing Acle deeper as the dark clouds return and the wind starts to pick up blowing from one goal to the other the direction the visitors are attacking.

  Building a attack Acle win a free-kick as Burton is caught in the face. a central position 35 yards out it's Burton who takes the set-piece lifting the ball up into the area Todd is in behind gets her head to the ball too early however the flag is up for offside. Wymondham make their 1st change of the game bringing on Laura Nicholls for Collins with 68 minutes played. A knock for Larkins see her come off Jody Wells coming on going up front with Shields dropping deeper and McGuire moving across to full back.

 GOAL! Wymondham have been threatening to score an equaliser and get it in the 70th minute the attack building down the right with pace as Holloway brings the ball on squares the cross along the face of the area into Clarke far side fires in a diagonal ball towards the near post players from both sides dive in to win the ball it's substitute Nicholls who gets on the end of Clarke's ball and turns it into the back of the net 1-1.

  Sanders is taken out by McGuire as she looks to drive forwards through the middle the free-kick given away 25 yards out in range for a shot Cantwell left of the D goes for the strike sends the ball wide of goal. Pasque comes forwards with the ball for Acle has Cletheroe to her right getting forwards sends the pass out to her, crosses early a high ball looping towards the near post the swirling wind sees Todd misjudge her attempted header doesn't make clean contact with the ball falls into the box Wymondham are quickly on it to launch clear. 

  Rowland is eased off the ball by Cossey seeing Acle have a free-kick 25 yards out in a good position. Wells to take goes for goal places her attempt over the crossbar. Wymondham go forwards the ball from Cantwell into Sanders plays the ball on for Wiseman has Nichols free to her right before she can pass the ball Cletheroe throws a leg out to tackle and win the ball.

 GOAL! Wymondham take the lead as Cantwell scores a 35 yard screamer to make it 2-1 as the game closes in on the final 10 minutes receives the lay off from Nicholls 25 yards from goal in a central area as the ball is rolled into her Cantwell meets the ball on the run sending her strike looping in towards the top corner dipping to sail under the bar.

  Wymondham bring on Laura Hamilton-Rout as they look to hold onto their lead with 10 minutes of normal time left on the clock. Larkins back on for Acle, Shields gets forwards as Todd attacks on the right plays the ball into her feet outside the area goes for goals sends the ball wide across goal. Wymondham very nearly give a penalty away as Todd attacking down the left comes inside drives for the box, Sanders slides in gets the ball as Todd goes over her, the referee awarded the free-kick right on the edge of the area left of the D. Burton on the free-kick gets it up and in towards the goal, O'Callaghan is right behind it tips the ball over the bar. The corner taken from the left is fired into the area at a good pace, Sanders wins the header as it comes to her inside the six yard box.

  Up the other end a double save from Hooper as Wymondham bring the ball down the left Clarke sending a long ball in towards Nichols coming in far post 3 yards out looks to try and place the ball across Hooper, getting a glove to the ball the goalkeeper pushes it away from goal but straight into the path of the onrushing Wiseman lunges for the ball Hooper is down quickly to make the save.

 GOAL! A yellow card for Rowland as she brings down Cantwell in a dangerous area outside the box. Cantwell picks herself up and is ready to take it Hooper is setting her wall. A goal scoring opportunity have the camera pointed and ready. The referee's whistle appears to blow a split 2nd after Cantwell strikes the ball either way the ball clears the wall and looping up flies in under the bar to give Cantwell her 2nd of the match and see Wymondham into a 3-1 in the 90th minute.

Amber Cantwell sends in her free-kick to make it 3-1 to Wymondham

 GOAL! A moment later and Wymondham extend the lead have a free-kick on half-way haven't got the camera pointed ready for this one as Fretwell stands over the ball but I should have no-one expects her to shoot the wind is in her favour the ball is sent long with plenty of pace behind it  sails over Hooper and into the back of the net making it 4-1 Fretwell is buried under her joyous team mates as they know they have reached their 1st ever County Cup Final.

Bethany Fretwell mobbed by her team mates after scoring from the halfway line

 

Wymondham Town Ladies
Bethany Fretwell

Frustration gets the better of Rowland a rash challenge she has already been booked and a 2nd yellow from the referee sees her sent off. Plenty of stoppage time to be played Acle continue to press forwards looking to pull a goal back. Have a corner on the right goes long to Burton far post fires the ball back into the middle Todd goes for it but is closed down quickly a 2nd corner conceded on the left this time.

 GOAL! Plenty of players in the box for both sides as Wells sending in an excellent delivery comes in towards Pasque central inside the six yard box twists her body the send her header flying past O'Callaghan into the back of the net 4-2. 

  Into the 8th minute of stoppage time Wymondham press forwards for one last attack the lay off running back to Hamilton-Rout 30 yards out meets the ball on the half-volley her shot racing wide of the post. That's the last action of the game and Wymondham celebrate as they reach the County Cup Final.

Full time Acle United Ladies 2-4 Wymondham Town Ladies

A good 2nd half performance from Wymondham coming back from 1-0 at half-time to win the match 4-2 plenty of late drama 2 free-kicks in the 90th minute sealing the win. Overall 2 evenly matches sides the wind stronger in the 2nd half proving both a problem and an advantage. Wymondham Town Ladies opponents in the Norfolk Women's County Cup Final will be the current holders Thorpe United Ladies after they beat Aylsham FC Ladies whom they played in last season's final 5-0. The final scheduled to be played Friday 28th April with a 7:30pm KO. 

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

  Today's SWF Blog - Player of the Match goes to Wymondham's Amber Cantwell a strong contender before she scored 2 goals in the last 15 minutes of the final a, competitive on the ball in the middle and a threat going forwards as well as from set-pieces.

Wymondham Town Ladies, Amber Cantwell

  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the sides today always a pleasure to see both play. Congratulation to Wymondham Town Ladies on reaching their 1st ever Norfolk Women's County Cup Final. The Supporting Women's Football Blog will be there.

Cup Final Report - Stevenage Ladies v Royston Town Ladies

Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Final 2016/17 

A trip to The County Ground, Letchworth this Sunday for my 1st Cup Final of the 2016/17 season. Stevenage Ladies playing Royston Town Ladies in this season's Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Final.

  A league between the sides both sides were promoted as league champions last season to test themselves at a higher level. Stevenage Ladies winning the ERWFL Premier Division title to move up into the FAWPL South East Division One, are 3rd from bottom currently and picked up a good win away from home last weekend as they look to maintain their league status. This is Stevenage Ladies 3rd successive appearance in the Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Final winning it for the 1st time 2 season's ago, finished runners-up against Watford Ladies Development U19s last time around. 
  
  Royston Town Ladies were promoted to the ERWFL Premier Division this season after clinching the ERWFL Division One West title. Like their opponents in today's final currently sit 3rd bottom in the table but with more points on the board are 9 points clear of the bottom side. Have one of the league top hotshots in their squad, Sammy Tinsley who has scored 31 goals so far this season. Royston Town Ladies have enjoyed their County Cup run scoring 40 goals in 4 rounds to reach the final. Were beaten finalists in the 2013/14 season.

Road to the Final

   Both sides entered the competition in the 1st Round. Stevenage progressing without kicking a ball awarded a home win. Royston were at home in the 1st Round taking on Beds & Herts Division Two side Panshanger Ladies, Sammy Tinsley hitting a double hat-trick as the club progressed with a 12-1 win.

  In the 2nd Round, Stevenage were drawn at home to ERWFL Division One side, Colney Heath Ladies, won the match 5-0 with Daniela Martucci netting a hat-trick. Royston were drawn at home again in the 2nd Round, playing Beds & Herts Division One side St Albans Ladies. Tinsley with just the 1 hat-trick this time, however she was joined by Stephanie Hicks and Georgina Gannaway as Royston scored 12 again winning 12-4 to progress.

  Into the quarter finals an away match versus Evergreen Eagles, playing 5 leagues below them in Beds & Herts Division Three, Stevenage winning 6-0 to reach the semi-finals with captain Donna McGuigan scoring a brace in the game. Scoring 12 goals in the previous 2 ties in the County Cup, Royston's goal scoring was far from over as they hosted Beds & Herts Division Two side Watton Ladies in the quarter finals won the game 14-0 with Tinsley top scoring in the game with 5 goals.

  The semi-finals were much closer affairs for both sides. Stevenage were at home playing another Watford Ladies youth side their U17s Hornets their young side pushing them all the way for a large chunk of the game before Stevenage sealed a 2-1 win to set up a 3rd successive final appearance, McGuigan scoring both the goals. It could have been an all Stevenage final too as their Reserves side had also reached the semi-finals away to Royston it was another 2-1 winning scoreline with Tinsley scoring both the goals.

  The County Ground, Letchworth headquarters of the Hertfordshire FA the venue for today's match. A good sized stadium, one main seated stand over looking a good sized pitch covered standing areas each end and on the opposite side the bar and clubhouse behind the main stand. The Pukka Tukka trailer their to provide hot and cold refreshments. Was an overcast day with a few spots of rain in the air slicked the pitch up a little before the match.

  Stevenage Ladies starting XI - Katherine Long, Leah Dunnage, Tanya Blacksley, Dominique Godbeer, Jade Beckett, Lisa Milliken, Kristina O'Connell, Donna McGuigan (C), Cara Breckenbridge, Rosy Woodhams & Bolu Fisher.

  subs - Hayley Wood-Thompson, Amy Josland, Daniela Martucci, Stephanie Mann & Kristi Burling

  Royston Town Ladies starting XI - Emma D'Costa, Rebekah Fisk, Annie Chambers, Amie Jones, Amy Cooper (C), Grace Leslie, Hayley Graham, Paris Coldicott-Stevens, Georgina Gannaway, Sammy Tinsley & Harriet Smith.

  subs - Katie Seymour, Paige Rolfe, Andrea Wright, Lucy Sende & Allyson Santini

(roll on roll off substitutes)

    It's Royston wearing white shirts and socks with black shorts to get the final underway, Stevenage lined up opposite wearing blue shirts with black sleeves, blue shorts and socks. Royston push forwards right from the start the ball from Hayley Graham into Georgina Gannaway takes the ball on towards the Stevenage area, Leah Dunnage closing her down outside the box tackling to concede the throw. Winning the ball in the middle Paris Coldicott-Stevens plays it on to Sammy Tinsley on the right for Royston, cutting back in field as she carries the ball on looks to thread the ball into striker Harriett Smith making a run ahead of her into the box, defender Dominique Godbeer goes with her keeping Smith from reaching the ball lets it run across her through to her goalkeeper Katherine Long to safely gather into her gloves.

  A competitive opening to the final, Royston pressing the ball early have kept Stevenage penned back in their own half without getting a shot away the midfield congested a few strong challenges. The ball runs favourably out to Cara Breckenbridge out wide left for Stevenage looks up attackers Bolu Fisher and Rosy Woodhams are both on the move sends the ball over the top Fisher closest breaks forwards after the ball, Royston goalkeeper, Emma D'Costa commits early rushing out towards the edge of her area to slide in and claim the ball before Fisher can reach it. 

  Stevenage are starting to find a few pockets of space to run into, Kristina O'Connell breaks from midfield moving to the left getting in behind wants the ball played into her, Royston captain Amy Cooper reads the threat getting across to win the ball play it out before O'Connell can get into a one on one position. Stevenage work the ball across the top of the area from the throw on the left the cross flighted in towards the far post sees Lisa Milliken flagged offside. It's Cooper's central defensive partner, Amie Jones who breaks up the next Stevenage attack as their opponents work the ball through the middle Jade Beckett playing it on for Fisher moving left has Stevenage's captain Donna McGuigan ahead of her they try to play the one/two Jones getting in between the to intercept the ball knocking it of McGuigan for the throw.

Stevenage's Jade Beckett looking to get ahead of Royston Town
midfielder Paris Coldicott-Stevens

  

  A brave and vital save from D'Costa in the Royston goal as Woodhams battling for the ball in the middle gets it out to Breckenbridge left sends the pass over the Royston defence with Fisher on the moves getting in behind a race for the ball, sliding it to save at the top of her area D'Costa makes the save collides with Fisher the ball runs in behind, Fisher scrambling up goes after it as the Royston defence get back to cover the goal, before Fisher can turn the ball home however referee, Rebecca Fearns-Purdue stops play with D'Costa hurt. 15 minutes in a chance for both sides to have a breather. D'Costa is okay to continue after treatment.

  Tanya Blacksley winning the ball at the back for Stevenage pushes forwards through the middle before sending it long for Fisher to go after having peeled away to the left side, Jones covers the ground well to get across on the cover to slide in and clear the threat for Royston. A corner kick for Stevenage on the left, Breckenbridge plays it short the cross delivered into the middle of the Royston area, Cooper gets up highest to head the ball from danger. Attacking down the right side another corner is conceded, Stevenage play the ball in high to the near post Jones up to head the ball out of the area, is fired across the D in towards McGuigan who hits the shot on the spin sending it goalwards, lacking height or pace the ball is gathered by D'Costa on her goal line.

Stevenage's Tanya Blacksley with Royston's Harriet Smith

Little room on the ball for Royston in the final 3rd, Grace Leslie gets hold of the ball runs it on for Tinsley out right turns in field drives towards the Stevenage box, Blacksley on her shoulder runs her into Dunnage who wins the tackle gets it out to Breckenbridge moving down the left on for Fisher, reaches D'Costa coming to the edge of her area first. A free-kick for Royston on half-way the ball played up to the edge of the area is initially headed away by Breckenbridge, Royston win the ball back the diagonal ball from right to left picks out Gannaway outside the area left of the D shifts the ball between her feet well to make room for a shot, slips at the vital moment the ball rolling towards goal scooped up by Long.

  Tinsley is stopped in her tracks by Dunnage as the Royston attacker dribbles the ball through the middle. Dunnage plays the ball forwards into space for Fisher to go after, Cooper with her both are beaten to the ball by D'Costa the Royston keeper out early to the edge of her box to slide onto the ball. From a throw in on the right Tinsley gathers the ball into her body turns and looks to find space in front of the Stevenage area for a shot, Blacksley goes with her, Tinsley sends the ball out to Annie Chambers on the left the full back rolling the ball into Gannaway ahead of her inside the box looks to square the ball across the six yard box with Smith making a central run, Dunnage gets across to clear the ball for the throw. 

Georgina Gannaway on the ball for Royston Town Ladies

 GOAL! Just over half an hour played and the deadlock is broken, Stevenage taking the lead after Long claims possession of the ball from a Royston attack the goalkeeper kicking the ball from the top of her area up towards the halfway line for once the centre backs fail to deal with the ball as it deflects favourably for Fisher sends the ball forwards getting up a head of steam drives towards the box left into the area plays from both sides racing to catch up with her, D'Costa comes closing down the angle saves well with her legs as Fisher looks to put the ball wide of her, grounded however the ball runs back to Fisher keeps her composure as the Royston defence get back to cover the goal instead rolls it across the penalty spot to Woodhams who sends the ball into the bottom corner of the goal to make it 1-0.

Rosy Woodhams scores the opening goal in this seasons
Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Final

  Royston make a change with Andrea Wright coming on up top for Smith. The substitute looks to hold the ball up as she takes it into the right corner is tackled by Blacksley playing the ball into O'Connell helps it on for Fisher to try and get in behind, Jones goes with her sliding in to take the ball away from the striker into Chambers to clear. D'Costa out to the edge of her area right corner saves well again sliding in to deny Fisher the ball rolls back out towards McGuigan, Leslie slides in to take the ball from her before she can line up a shot the ball running across the top of the box Coldicott-Stevens gets it up field. 

Stevenage's Bolu Fisher with Royston Town' defender Amie Jones

  Gannaway plays the ball on for Wright down the left channel cutting inside gets into the area her ball put in along the six yard box cut out and cleared by Godbeer. A set-piece for Royston on half-way players go forwards as Cooper plays the ball up towards the top of the area, Leslie heads the ball on into the six yard box, Dunnage is the quickest to react getting it out of the box for Stevenage. Breckenbridge finds herself with time and space in the middle as the ball is played across to her 35 yards out lines up a strike plays the ball straight into the keeper. Fisher has been in the wars 1st half clattered into several times a free-kick is awarded in 1st half injury time after she is brought down wide on the left inside the Royston half, O'Connell on the ball a corner is conceded on the left a good delivery into the box by Breckenbridge, Beckett gets her head on the ball sends her effort over the bar the final action of the 1st half.

  Half-time Stevenage Ladies 1-0 Royston Town Ladies

  A 1-0 lead for Stevenage at half-time having been dominant once they got to grips with Royston's pressing game, a competitve contest especially in the middle of the park. Stevenage getting in behind the Royston defence on a few occasions eventually bringing the goal whilst up the other end have kept things tight at the back playing deeper preventing their opponents attackers from finding any room to exploit. Leading by just a single goal the Final is far from settled.

   It's Stevenage to kick-off the 2nd half, Royston look to get hold of the ball right from the start, Stevenage instead get it forwards playing it into Fisher outside the box left of the D back to goal rolls in across the top of the area looking to pick out Woodhams, instead Chambers steps in to intercept the ball clear it up field for Royston.

 GOAL! Stevenage waste no time getting the ball back into Royston's final 3rd win themselves a corner on the left side, Breckenbridge to take as players come up from the back the delivery in towards the near post Godbeer gets her head on the ball inside the six yard box at the near post nodding the ball into the ground it bounces into the back of the net to see Stevenage double their advantage 4 minutes into the 2nd half 2-0.

Dominique Godbeer is mobbed by her team mates after putting Stevenage 2-0 up

 Royston come very close to pulling a goal back right from the restart the ball passed into Tinsley in a central position 25 yards from goal, good footwork to make room for a shot let's flying the ball arrowing towards the top corner, Long throws herself to her right as it dips late strikes the post before rebounding out of play. Royston make a double substitution Jones and Gannaway the players coming off, Lucy Sende and Paige Rolfe come on. A throw in for Royston on the left the ball is played across the pitch by Graham out towards Fisk plays it forwards for Wright making a move down the right channels to get in behind the Stevenage defence, Long comes rushing out from her goal to slide in and claim the ball before Wright can take it past her.

Royston Town Ladies, Rebekah Fisk

  Stevenage counter attack from a Royston free-kick the ball played out to Woodhams on half way drives forwards before sending the ball into Fisher's path moving right looking to get into the Royston box is forced wide by Cooper tracking back with her the angle against her as she tries to get a shot away sends her effort high over the crossbar.

 GOAL! 10 minutes into the 2nd half and Stevenage extend their lead a moment D'Costa will want to forget unfortunately the keeper having had fantastic game up to that moment, Stevenage get the ball forwards into the run of Woodhams left side pushing towards the area knocks the ball on into the area, coming out to slide in and claim the ball D'Costa doesn't take it cleanly pops out of her gloves, Woodhams knocks it past her and gives chase to send the ball into the empty net beyond to make it 3-0.

 D'Costa is distraught but her teammates are quick to pick her up and get her focused with over half an hour of the final still to play. A comfortable lead for Stevenage now. Royston push players on Fisk supporting Tinsley out wide right receives the ball squares it into Graham in a central position 20 yards from goal, shifts the ball between her feet making room to curl a low shot in towards goal, travelling towards the bottom corner not enough pace on the ball as Long comes across her goal to claim it. Fisk pushes on again with Wright holding the ball up in the left corner for Royston plays it up towards the full-back who has Tinsley making a run across the D in front of the Stevenage box, Fisk picks her out the attacker meeting the ball 1st time sending the ball in towards goal flies wide of the post.

  A change for Stevenage as they bring off Milliken with Amy Josland coming on into the midfield. Involved in the action straight away a ball over the top has Woodhams in behind same run that led to her goal, D'Costa comes rushing out to sliding takes the ball confidently into her body. Pressing on the right wing Stevenage win a corner kick, Breckenbridge plays it up the line with O'Connell available the midfielder sends a sweeping cross in towards the near post just behind Dunnage's run the defender turns getting her chest on the ball to help it on, bouncing up for Beckett, she tries to get some power on her header but plays it straight into D'Costa in goal.

Changes for both sides, Royston bring on Katie Seymour in place of Fisk, Stephanie Mann comes on for Stevenage replacing Beckett midway through the 2nd half. Woodhams looks to bring the ball on through the middle for Stevenage is tackled by Rolfe 25 yards out the ball deflects wide to Breckenbridge on the right plays a great early ball into the Royston area, bouncing in front of the six yard box, D'Costa claims the ball well above her head not distracted by Josland racing in try and reach the cross. Allyson Santini come on for Royston in place of Coldicott-Stevens. 70 minutes played.

Royston are awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position just outside the box top left corner, Wright over the ball as players come forwards from the back. Is a great ball in towards the players lining up at the far post picking out Leslie 12 yards out gets a firm header on the ball turning it towards goal, pace on the ball it is heading for the bottom corner, Long throws herself across her goal to make an excellent save. Stevenage bring off Woodhams sending on Daniela Martucci to join the attack for the final 15 minutes. 

Royston's Grace Leslie get her header on target

  Rolfe gets back to tackle Martucci as she takes the ball down the right channel conceding the corner kick. Breckenbridge plays the ball into the area going long is just over McGuigan falls to Josland beyond who meets the ball on the volley sends her attempt wide of target. Smith rejoins the action for Royston with Graham coming off. McGuigan is away down the right as the referee plays the advantage after Breckenbridge is clattered driving inside into the box closing in on goal McGuigan blasts the ball into the side netting a corner is signalled however, the delivery swung in towards the near post is headed clear of the area by Santini, falling to O'Connell outside the box snatches at the shot cutting the ball wide across the area.
  
  Breckenbridge is the next player substituted by Stevenage, Kristi Burling coming on with a little over 10 minutes left to play. Godbeer comes across to slide in and take the ball inside the area from Smith as she is played in behind on the left side by Chambers. Fisher comes off in the latter stages of the game with Stevenage sending on Hayley Wood-Thompson. Josland tussling with Leslie for the ball in the middle of the park gets it forwards for McGuigan, advances towards the top of the area before blasting a shot wide of the far post. Milliken returns to the action in place of O'Connell for Stevenage.

 

Royston Town Ladies,
Harriett Smith

Late pressure from Royston as they search for a goal, Smith is played in down the right carries the ball on into the box Long comes to close the angle, Godbeer too, between them squeeze the Royston attacker off the ball. A great reverse ball down the line from Santini gets Chambers in behind on the left for Royston sends a long ball in across the six yard box towards the far post Wood-Thompson defends well against Wright heading the ball out of the area falls to Leslie 20 yards out running onto the ball hits it back into the area her strike blocked. 


 Into the final couple of minutes of normal time Royston get the ball forwards into Smith right of goal shifts the ball before pulling the trigger, Long gets down sharply to make the save the ball deflects across her six yard box, no one following in as Stevenage launch it up field. Another late chance for Smith as Tinsley rolls the ball into her path outside the area hits the ball hard towards goal Long throws herself to her left, the ball flies narrowly wide of the post.


 GOAL! In injury time Stevenage hit Royston on the break to score a 4th goal the ball played out to Milliken is space on the right plays the ball in towards the top of the area just behind Wood-Thompson has Josland beyond her McGuigan is running on towards the top of the box Josland rolling the ball into her opening up her body McGuigan meets the ball perfectly sending it angling into the top corner 4-0. Virtually the last action of the game the final whistle blows and Stevenage celebrate winning the County Cup.

Full time Stevenage Ladies 4-0 Royston Town Ladies

  A 4-0 win for Stevenage 2 early goals 2nd half putting them in control of the final, the better side on the day their defence giving Royston very little opportunity in behind whilst up the other end had players always ready to break forwards. Royston battled hard a competitive contest especially in the middle of the park but eventually ran out of energy. A few late chances to pull a goal back hit on the counter on concede a 4th goal. A good game watched by a decent sized crowd.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

     With two goals in the final the SWF Blog - Player of the Match is Rosy Woodhams. Made life difficult for the Royston defence with so forceful runs on the ball. Good hold up play to bring others into the attack aswell as making intelligent runs to make space for others to exploit.

Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Winners, Stevenage Ladies

  Congratulations to Stevenage Ladies on winning this season's Hertfordshire Women's County Cup Final.

  My thanks to the Hertfordshire FA staff today, especially Callum Riley for his help with the team line-ups. Enjoyed my 1st Cup Final of the season plenty more to look forwards too.

Match Report - Essex FA Women v Hertfordshire FA Women

   A Thursday night trip down to Essex to watch another game from this season's East Anglian Counties Championship, tonight Essex FA Women are playing their final game of the competition, hosting Hertfordshire FA Women.

  The competition could have been settled a week ago with table toppers Suffolk needing just a point to retain the The Fred Welham Cup away to Kent who themselves had a chance of winning the trophy if they could beat them then win again against Hertfordshire who they have yet to play, that game was postponed however due to Storm Doris and will be rearranged for a later date.

  Essex have played two games in the East Anglian Counties Championship this season losing narrowly 4-3 away to Suffolk in an exciting match before earning a good point at home to Kent in a 1-1 draw back in November. Will be looking to end this season's competition with a win. Hertfordshire have played just the one game to date at home to Suffolk at the end of November losing against the defending cup holders Suffolk 4-2 6 points still to play for would need alot to go their way if they were to edge Suffolk away at the top of the table.

  The venue for tonight's game took some finding, I blame the Sat-Nav it insisted it was on my right when I should have been looking left still 3 trips up the street I eventually spotted the entrance to Aveley FC. Quite well hidden in a residential area, normally you'd spot the floodlight but despite being tall they were fairly well hidden. An old stadium, has a large pitch with plenty of grass either side the crowd standing fairly well back. A large seated stand behind the dugout with concrete terracing in front. A newer clubhouse and bar before the stadium in one corner a good size with hot and cold drinks available. Was a cold evening and getting colder but dry. The pitch a good size a little bobbly in places.

East Anglian Counties Championship
Pos	Team	Pl	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Suffolk	2	2	0	0	8	5	3	6
2	Kent	1	0	1	0	1	1	0	1
3	Essex	2	0	1	1	4	5	-1	1
4	Hertfordshire	1	0	0	1	2	4	-2	0

  Essex FA Women starting XI - Layla Prior, Charlotte Twydell, (both Brentwood Town Ladies), Hayley Piggott (C) (Billericay Town Ladies),Charlotte Bryant, Abigail Fry (both Writtle Ladies), Sasha McDonald, (Colchester Town Ladies), Nicole Farmer Katie Whitehead, Lindsey Morgan, Vicky Kinsman (all Billericay Town Ladies) & Courtney Clarke (Writtle Ladies).
  subs -  Lucy Jones, Niamh Gamble (both Writtle Ladies), Kira Fitzpatrick, Miagh Downey (Colchester Town Ladies), Lyndsey Bowman (Silver End United Ladies).

  Hertfordshire FA Women starting XI - Michelle Bridgeman, Bilge Taspinar (both Hertford Town Ladies), Lorna Gover (Hemel Hempstead Town Ladies), Heidi Sinclair (Enfield Town Ladies), Hayley Wood-Thompson, Becky Day (both Stevenage Ladies), Sian Owens (Enfield Town Ladies), Molly Johnson (Kings Langley), Cara Breckenbridge (C) Amy Josland & Sarah Payne (all Stevenage Ladies).
  subs - Erin Davies (AFC Dunstable Ladies).

(roll on roll off substitutes)

  It's Essex all in red to kick-off the game with Hertfordshire lined up opposite all in blue. Essex half the early possession making progress down the left before being awarded a free-kick the initial delivery into the box cleared by Hertfordshire's Heidi Sinclair out back towards the free-kick taker played back in low towards the top corner of the area, Essex's Abigail Fry gets a shot away is claimed by Hertfordshire goalkeeper, Michelle Bridgeman at her near post. 

  A good start from Essex pushing bodies forwards finding space to make runs in behind, Lindsey Morgan bursts forwards with the ball on the right side getting down the line squares the ball in towards the near post too close to the keeper, Bridgeman takes it cleanly gets the ball up field Molly Johnson linking up with Amy Josland through the middle attempts to play the ball over the top for striker Sarah Payne, Essex captain, Hayley Piggott playing at centre back heads the ball away the counter attack on Sasha McDonald playing the ball on for Vicky Kinsman in behind with Becky Day on her shoulder the pair heading for the box, Bridgeman makes the call coming out to collect the ball at the top of her area. 

   Katie Whitehead takes the ball down the right wing for Essex cuts her cross back along he top of the Hertfordshire area, Courtney Clarke coming in from the opposite flank stretching can't quite reach the ball. Essex continue to have the bulk of the attack in the opening 10 minutes. Kinsman trying to get her head onto a ball flung in to the box from the right puts the ball wide of goal.

  GOAL! Breaking up a Hertfordshire attack the ball is played into McDonald in the centre of midfield turning sees Clarke in pace on the left, running on with the ball strikes from the top of the box getting plenty of pace on the shot the ball flying in towards goal over the keeper to drop into the far corner to give Essex the lead on 11 minutes 1-0.

   Morgan plays the ball out to Whitehead on the right drives with the ball into the box, Hertfordshire's Johnson is with her risks giving away the penalty if she lunges in to try and take the ball, Day coming across on the cover has the better angle for the tackle gets the ball sending it behind for a corner kick. Morgan heads the ball on across the area for Essex, Hertfordshire launch it clear, Payne looks to be away up top but is stopped by the offside flag. Good hold up play from Kinsman outside the area right side passes the ball into Whitehead's feet on the right taking the ball into the corner whips her cross in towards the far post, Clarke throws herself at the ball but can't get enough on it to deflect it goalwards. 

  GOAL! Kinsman doubles the lead for Essex on 18 minutes the ball fired into her feet as she moves to the right into the area, turns and sends her lobbed effort up over the keeper to land in the inside the goal of the side netting beyond 2-0. 

  An opportunity for Hertfordshire soon after going 2-0 down attacking down the right side of the pitch the ball is played on through the middle with Payne getting in between the centre backs a strong run heading for the area sees goalkeeper, Layla Prior coming out to the top of the area to close her down attempts to lob her, Prior makes an excellent save going to ground gets her gloves up to take the sting off the ball bouncing behind her the Essex defence manages to clear before Payne hurdling the keeper can follow up. Hertfordshire make a change there only sub Erin Davies coming on for Johnson. 

  The pitch is a little bobbly in places one in front of Hertfordshire's Hayley Wood-Thompson as she is closed down by Essex's Fry, knocking the ball past her out to Clarke out wide, Wood-Thompson is quick to get back on Clarke win the tackle preventing her getting a cross into the box. Herts attack captain Cara Breckenbridge playing the ball on for Josland through the middle for a moment Payne looks to be away through the centre to attack the Essex goal, Charlotte Bryant throws herself into the tackle taking the ball away from the striker, running into the left corner Bilge Taspinar keeps the ball in play fr Hertfordshire sends a cross in towards the near post, Piggott cuts it out headers clear for Essex.

   Having seen two goals scored with lobbed strikes flying over the keeper, Morgan tries the same for Essex getting hold of the ball as Hertfordshire struggle to clear in a central position 25 yards out sends the ball high into the air, Bridgeman sees on her goal-line brings the ball down safely into her gloves. Kinsman tries the same moments later as the ball is fired into her feet turning to try the lob from inside the box the ball looping up into the air, Bridgeman seeing it land on the roof of her net this time. Whitehead in behind on the right wing again for Essex squares a high cross into the box just over Morgan making a near post run drops to Clarke beyond meeting the ball as it falls flashes her strike wide.

  Herts attack bringing the ball on down the right Lorna Gover on for Payne outside the box cuts the ball inside with Josland arriving shoots from the top of the area, her strike blocked by Essex's Charlotte Twydell spins away for a corner. The ball in from the right is cleared for a 2nd corner, this delivery falling into the six yard box causes a little panic before Prior throws herself on the ball to end the threat. Breckenbridge comes forwards with the ball on the left side for Hertfordshire tries the diagonal ball forwards towards the area with Payne making the run, Piggott gets in front of her to intercept the ball for Essex they counter attack the ball played up to Whitehead on the right a driving run with the ball shots early her strike from outside the box flying into the side netting. 

  Into the last 5 minutes of the 1st half Hertfordshire attack Breckenbridge playing the ball on for Taspinar on the left play the ball in field into Josland 30 yards out attempts to loft the ball in behind for Payne, Bryant wins the ball with her head for Essex. Payne plays the ball on for Gover making a forwards run late on getting into the box closed down gets a shot away the ball is blocked spins away to the left corner Gover retrieving sends a cross into the box, Essex's Piggott heading it away.

  Half-time Essex FA Women 2-0 Hertfordshire FA Women

  A dominant 1st half from Essex, settled into the game the quicker going 2-0 up inside the opening 20 minutes, using the width well, Kinsman holding the ball up well up front. The centre backs dealing with most threats up the other end. Hertfordshire having one clear chance to pull a goal back Prior making the save. Essex look comfortable at 2-0 but one goal back for Hertfordshire in the 2nd half and this all might change.

 It's Hertfordshire to get the 2nd half underway the temperature has dropped decidedly lower during the half-time break. The visitors standing the 2nd half with a higher tempo looking to close the ball down. Essex get hold of the ball in the middle Fry playing it into Kinsman inside the D back to goal holding the ball up has Morgan to her left rolls the ball into her Morgan shoots her shot held by Bridgeman across to cover the post. Farmer gets forwards for Essex on the left playing the ball inside to Clarke outside the box back to goal spins and plays the ball in towards the penalty spot Sinclair winning the header for Hertfordshire. 

  Breckenbridge is clattered in the middle of the park the referee playing the advantage as the ball runs into Payne central, lays it out to Davies left continues on into the box calling for the return pass, Davies gets it into her feet but Payne is closed down quickly the tackle coming in before she can squeeze a shot away. Essex counter the ball on through the middle into Kinsman early in behind Bridgeman comes rushing out towards the top of the area sliding in makes the save as Kinsman pulls the trigger the ball rebounding out to the left inside the box Morgan's left foot strike flying across the face of goal comes to Whitehead outside the far post, the assistants flag is up for offside before she can fashion a shot. 

  Fry getting forwards for Essex hits a shot on the half volley from 20 yards out the ball looping up and in towards goal, Bridgeman is right behind it catches cleanly, the ball doesn't go far before Essex attack again McDonald into Clarke outside the area left her lobbed effort going wide of the top corner. Hertfordshire make a change Johnson coming back on to replace Owens soon after Clarke takes a knock for Essex and after receiving treatment on the pitch comes off replaced by Lyndsey Bowman.

  Kira Fitzpatrick comes on for Essex in place of Whitehead with around 20 minutes of the game left. Taspinar getting away down the left plays a high ball in towards the near post, Prior takes the ball high spilling it as Payne going for the ball jumps into her, the free-kick awarded to Essex. Another pacey run from Taspinar on the left side delvers the cross earlier this time Bryant and Payne both going up for the ball, Bryant winning the header. Getting her foot on the ball in the middle of the park Fry drives forwards with it seeing space to the right moving into it takes on the shot from 30 yards out drills the ball wide of goal. Essex bring on Miagh Downey in place of Kinsman. Owens returns to the pitch for Hertfordshire with Johnson coming off. A free-kick for Hertfordshire 35 yards out central Breckenbridge goes for goal Prior able to see it wide of her goal.

 Closing in on the last 10 minutes 2-0 still the lead for Essex, Hertfordshire are awarded a free-kick wide right inside their opponents half players flood the box as Wood-Thompson plays in a fantastic ball towards the far post runners attacking it Payne and Taspinar the latter heading the ball down towards goal, Prior makes a great double stop on her goal line blocking the initial header then getting in the way of the follow up in her six yard box. 

  Morgan receiving the ball on the left intent on running with it towards the area is forced into the early shot as Hertfordshire's Downey gets back on her preventing her going where she wants to the shot from distance angling away from the near post. Niamh Gamble comes on for Essex. Owens brings the ball on through the middle for Hertfordshire has Gover ahead of her they exchange passes before Owens puts the ball into the area cut out is cleared back to Davies as she comes forwards sends a lofted strike in towards goal is collect safely by Prior on her goal line. 

  GOAL! From one end to the other Essex counter attack in the 86th minutes the ball going long out to the left Morgan picking it up playing it into Bowman outside the box top left corner shifting the ball inside a yard before sending the ball in towards goal up and over the keeper to land in the back of the net beyond and make the result safe 3-0. 

  Essex keep possession in the closing minutes of the 2nd half one last attack as Morgan finds the energy to burst forwards shooting early the ball is deflected off a defenders leg into the path of Bowman getting into the box hits the shot early the ball flying wide across the goal mouth.

Full time Essex FA Women 3-0 Hertfordshire FA Women

  Essex end their East Anglian Counties Championship this season with a 3-0 win 4 points from their 3 games. Started well taking the lead and looked comfortable throughout the game. At 2-0 Hertfordshire were never out of it having like the 1st half a good opportunity to pull a goal back, Essex finally making the result save late on. Hertfordshire have one more game left an away trip to play Kent FA Women who are in contention to win this years competition.

SWF Blog - Player of the Match

   Tonight's SWF Blog - Payer of the Match goes to Essex's captain, Hayley Piggott. Good positioning all night reading the ball well cutting out alot of Hertfordshire's forward balls giving them little opportunity through the middle. Solid defensive partnership along side Charlotte Bryant.

  My thank to Essex FA's Mark Wallis for his help with the team details tonight