Match Report - Suffolk FA Women v Essex FA Women

  After a false start last week with the game between Kent FA Women & Hertfordshire FA Women being postponed, this season's East Anglian Counties Championship got underway this Thursday evening with the current holders of the Fred Welham Women's Cup, Suffolk FA Women hosting Essex FA Women.

  Four counties women's representative sides contesting the East Anglian Counties Championship again this season, those mentioned in the previous paragraph, playing each other once with the side topping the table winning the trophy.

  Suffolk FA Women, under manager, Emma Manning won all 3 of their matches last season to top the group and win the competition. Manning is in charge again this season and has picked a squad with plenty of FAWPL South East Division One experience, with Ipswich Town Ladies and Lowestoft Town Ladies making up the bulk of the squad. New side Walsham Le Willows Ladies have 2 players in squad, whilst captain Paige Shorten who works for the Suffolk FA plays her football across the border with Norwich City Ladies. Start with a home match against Essex, followed by 2 away games against Hertfordshire and Kent.

 Essex FA Women's manager, Kim Coster has drawn her players together for this game from a wider club base, plenty of ERWFL experience in the side with Essex having a good number of clubs competing at that level. Also manager of Billericay Town Ladies, Coster has 5 Billericay Town players in her squad, with Writtle Ladies also having 5 players representing Essex this evening. 2 from Silver End United Ladies plus 1 from C&K Basildon Ladies complete the squad travelling to Brantham Athletic FC.

  South of Ipswich, Brantham Athletic FC's, large clubhouse and bar it situated at one end of the ground. Over looking a large pitch a small seated stand behind one goal with another along the side behind the dugouts. Hot and cold refreshments available for the good number of supporters that had come to watch. Thankfully it was a dry evening under the floodlights the rain heavy at times earlier in the day keeping away. 

  Suffolk FA Women starting XI - Charlotte Osborne, Emma Boreham (both Walsham Le Willows Ladies), Jacqueline Ball, Sian Fagg, Aimee Harrison (all Ipswich Town Ladies), Paige Shorten (C) (Norwich City Ladies), Hollie Clement, Natasha Thomas, Amy Howlett, Joyce Mlambo (all Ipswich Town Ladies) & Amiee Durrant (Lowestoft Town Ladies).
  subs - Eilish Brogan, Millie Davies, Gemma Moore (all Lowestoft Town Ladies) & Roxanne Small (Ipswich Town Ladies)

   Essex FA Women starting XI - Beth Griffiths (Writtle Ladies), Sophie Blowers (C&K Basildon Ladies), Nicole Farmer, Hayley Piggott (C), (both Billericay Town Ladies), Charlotte Bryant, Abigail Fry (both Writtle Ladies), Jodie Osborne (Silver End United Ladies), Katie Whitehead, Lindsay Morgan (both Billericay Town Ladies), Sophie Vale & Courtney Clarke (both Writtle Ladies).
   subs - Charlotte Hopwood (Billericay Town Ladies), Rebecca Hollocks (Silver End United Ladies) & Georgia Tricker (Writtle Ladies)

(roll on roll off substitutes)

 It's Suffolk sponsored by Home Store in an all red kit to get the game underway 1st half with Essex kitted out in blue shirts with a vertical white band down the left side of the chest plus white band around the right sleeve along with blue shorts and socks lined up opposite. Essex win the ball back inside their own half and send it long out to the left with Courtney Clarke moving across the pitch brings the ball down, can't avoid the challenge from Jacqueline Ball as she attempts to knock the ball past the Suffolk right back the ball out for a throw. Another ball from Essex is played up from half way by Jodie Osborne towards Sophie Vale moving inside from the left, looks to help the ball on into the area the Suffolk defence clear.

  GOAL! The attacking momentum with Essex right at the start, Suffolk get the ball up into their opponents half and score the opening goal in the 2nd minute. The ball is played along the ground into Hollie Clement the midfielder 30 yards out to the left of goal, controlling the ball turns and takes on the shot, a great strike that flies in up and over Essex keeper Beth Griffiths into the ball of the net 1-0.

  Both sides with a rapid counter attack, Essex looking to get straight back on level terms play the diagonal ball into Vale moving inside from the left, with her 1st touch attempts to lift the ball over the Suffolk defence for Clarke moving in behind, is flagged offside as she races after the ball. Up the other end Suffolk captain, Paige Shorten in the heart of midfield plays a fantastic 30 yard pass crossfield to Amy Howlett breaking in behind up the right wing taking the ball up the line moves into the box squaring the cross into the six yard box, Essex captain Hayley Piggott tracking back cuts the cross out putting the ball behind for a corner kick.

  The corner is whipped in by Shorten towards the near post area, Sian Fagg up from the back moves towards the ball can't get anything in it the ball is half cleared to the top right corner of the box, Natasha Thomas is there for Suffolk hits the shot low and hard through the crowd is cleared off the line at the far post the clearance coming back to Shorten wide on the right, looks to curl a shot into the far corner, isn't too far away as the ball drops onto the crossbar.

  Essex attack down the right Katie Whitehead on down the line for Lindsay Morgan whips the cross in from the byline, is caught by Suffolk goalkeeper, Charlotte Osborne coming towards her near post. On the opposite wing, Vale steals in to win the ball take it in behind the defence racing towards the box tries to lift the ball into the box, Osborne closing the angle is able to claim the ball.

  GOAL! 12 minutes into the match and Essex level the scores, breaking up a Suffolk attack at the back the ball is played long up towards the Suffolk area, 25 yards out Vale moving inside reaches the ball 1st plays it early in across the defence picking out Whitehead getting into the box from the right, clear on goal pulls the trigger and sends the ball past Osborne to score 1-1.

  Suffolk are forced into making an early change with left back Emma Boreham injured in the build up to the goal. Can't continue looks like an ankle injury, is substituted Roxanne Small coming on to make it an all Ipswich Town Ladies back four. Getting up the field on the right, Osborne has the ball on the wing puts the ball into the box, is headed away out to the left side, Essex retain possession Morgan on the ball travels inside running along the face of the box before trying to lift the ball into the area from 20 yards out, Fagg rises to head the ball clear.

  Spreading the play well across the pitch, Essex are beginning to see more of the ball have Suffolk pushed back into their own half. Vale receiving the ball 25 yards out drifting inside from the left tries to play Clarke in behind again up against Small the full-back gets back on her to get a foot on the ball tackling as the pair arrive inside the box knocking it on for Osborne to gather cleanly. Abigail Fry has the ball wide left for Essex rolls in it in field into Vale who looks to help it on across the top of the Suffolk area for Clarke, Aimee Harrison steps out of defence to intercept and clear the ball for Suffolk.

  Essex are cutting out most through balls Suffolk are trying to put into their attackers, Osborne winning the ball sends it high out to Fry on the left meeting it on the volley turns it in field into Clarke, controls the ball well turns and attempts to put the ball into the path of Whitehead trying to get into the box on the right, Harrison moves to close the attacker down and tackling gets her foot to the ball 1st to take it away from her on the edge of the box. 

  A free-kick given for a foul on Thomas, inside the Essex half gives Suffolk the opportunity to bring players forwards wide right half way inside the half Shorten plays the ball up into the area curling in the ball drops straight into Griffiths' gloves before anyone can reach it. Ball gets forwards from the back for Suffolk carries the ball into space, squares a low ball into the six yard box, Griffiths 1st to it the keeper scooping the ball up before Joyce Mlambo coming in can reach it for Suffolk. 

  Another enforced change for Suffolk sees them having to change goalkeepers as Osborne goes down can't continue, Lowestoft Town Ladies young goalkeeper, Eilish Brogan comes on to make her county debut. Is quickly thrust into action, Morgan with the ball attacking down the left for Essex tries to roll Vale in ahead of her into the area, Brogan off her line quickly slides in to smother the ball at her feet. Essex come again the ball crossfield to Fry on the left has Vale with her the 2 linking up to get the cross into the box near post Brogan takes it well despite Morgan closing her down.

  GOAL! Having been put under pressure from Essex for a spell, Suffolk break and retake the lead inside the last 5 minutes of the 1st half, Brogan throwing the ball out is played up field into Aimee Durrant on the left a strong run on the ball curls a cross in towards Mlambo attacking the near post the ball is just behind her can't reach it, her marker clearing it the ball doesn't get any height racing along the ground out of the box, Thomas is coming the other way meets it in the D, hits the shot back in along the floor, travelling fast the ball is past the diving Griffiths and over the line to make it 2-1.

  Essex press late on in the 1st half get the ball into the box, almost force an error a risky back pass to Brogan the keeper launching it high into the air in just the nick of time as Morgan throws herself at the ball inside the six yard box. Sophie Blowers plays the ball into the middle from the right for Clarke back to goal holds it up well, turns lifting the ball over the top Fagg heading it away from the area. Nicole Farmer retrieving the ball on the left puts it back into the area, again it is headed clear.

Half time Suffolk FA Women 2-1 Essex FA Women

  A narrow lead at half-time for Suffolk scoring a goal at both ends of the 1st half, started well, Essex coming back into it scoring on 12 minutes and were the better side for a spell getting the ball forwards down the wings without really tested the goalkeeper. A late counter attack seeing Suffolk regain some momentum before the break. An intriguing contest between the 2 sides.

  It's Essex to get the 2nd half underway. The ball is played up Vale outside the area passes the ball across the Suffolk D trying to pick out Whitehead making the run to get in behind, the ball is defended the attack broken up. Suffolk play the ball up field quickly out to Durrant on the left the wide player seeing her shot from outside the box the ball deflected across the area. Whitehead is fouled by Clement wide on the right the free-kick awarded Piggott comes up from defence to take it 40 yards out wide of goal gets the ball over the 3 players in the Suffolk wall is a straight forward catch for Brogan in the centre of her six yard box. Morgan is covering alot of ground for Essex up top finding space left and right, left this time getting in behind lifts a cross up into the area Brogan getting to the ball 1st.

  Millie Davies is on for her county debut for Suffolk the Lowestoft Town Ladies player on for Mlambo, in midfield Thomas is pushed further forwards into attack. Durrant is getting a little more of the ball 2nd half able to bring it down and run at the Essex defence, brings it inside trying to get into the box, Blowers tackles conceding the corner. A good delivery whipped into the six yard box Griffiths coming through bodies gets enough of her glove on the ball to push it away from danger. An injury for Essex, Whitehead down is substituted Charlotte Hopwood coming on going into the defence with Blowers pushed on ahead of her. 

  After a lull in play early in the 2nd half the game has livened up again both sides attacking with purpose play stretched across the Brantham Athletic pitch. Shorten sends a long pass across field to Durrant on the left, chesting it down her momentum takes her in field along the top of the Essex area, gets her foot wrapped around the ball to reverse to back into the area the attempt at goal lacking any pace, Griffith sees it into her gloves. Essex make another substitution, Georgina Tricker coming on for Writtle teammate Fry. Not long after Vale comes off too, Silver End United Ladies striker Rebecca Hollocks introduced to the action.

  GOAL! Penalty! 20 minutes into the 2nd chance Essex have a chance to equalise from the penalty spot. The ball is played out of the back up into the Suffolk half, Harrison doesn't get her head to the ball to clear bounces behind her, Morgan racing onto it drives towards the area, Fagg coming across to try and win the ball a tangle of legs as both go down just inside the box, clumsy the referee blows up and points to the spot. Piggott to take the penalty hits it hard burying the ball into the back of the net to the keepers left 2-2.

   Hollocks rises to head the ball away to the right to put Blowers in behind the Suffolk defence on the wing pushing down the flank her cross is deflected behind for a corner by Small. The corner is cleared at the near post by Suffolk attempting to launch a counter attack the ball is lost, Blowers with possession 25 yards out right of the area, looks to put the ball back in towards goal the shot bounces through to Brogan. Blowers now further up the field is seeing plenty of the ball, Osborne putting the pass into her 25 yards out time to line up a shot sends a curling effort in looks to be heading top corner dipping late, Brogan is beaten, the ball kisses the crossbar and stays out. Suffolk make a change Gemma Moore coming on for her 1st appearance for her County.

  Break down the left from Suffolk Durrant running with the ball at her feet down the line cuts inside fizzing a cross low across the six yard box players coming in far post Farmer gets her boot through the ball 1st to clear for Essex.   

  GOAL! Rapid counter attacks have been a feature of the game so far tonight and as the game moves into the last 16 minutes Suffolk retake the lead for the 3rd time in the match, Harrison at the back for Suffolk getting hold of the pull sends it forwards into the middle helped on to find Thomas moving into a gap on the left outside the box dribbles the ball into the area turning right running across the six yard box, cuts the ball back 90 degrees turning it past Griffiths to score her 2nd of the game 3-2.

  Davies plays the ball out to Moore on the right flank, takes it forwards pushing down the line drilling a low cross in towards the near post area, Osborne gets in ahead of Howlett to regain possession for Essex. 

  GOAL! Moore with the ball at her feet again on the right pushing forwards picks out Thomas inside the box on the right, goes for goal the early strike giving Griffiths little chance to set herself, does well producing and instinctive save getting a glove on the ball deflects it wide across her area to the left, Only 2 players out their, Blowers and Durrant, the Suffolk winger goes after the ball picking it up on the edge of the area, tries to turn inside is brought down by Blowers the referee immediately pointing to the spot. Thomas on a hat-trick to take it, dispatches it into the top corner sending Griffiths the wrong way 4-2. 78 minutes played.

  Piggott picks out Hopwood as the defender makes a run up the right to get in behind the Suffolk defence goes after the ball as it runs towards the area, Brogan has committed early out to the edge of her area, sliding in to grab the ball before Hopwood can knock it past her. Brogan makes an excellent save to prevent an own goal as Essex win a free kick central inside the Suffolk half the ball lifted into the area, Harrison goes to clear it doesn't get firm contact brushing off the back of her head drops down heading for the bottom corner Brogan throws herself to her right pushing the ball wide of the post conceding the corner kick. 

  Hollocks strong on the ball on the left side gets the ball up towards the area putting the pass inside for Morgan, 25 yards out goes for goal puts her shot wide across the area. Late into the match Essex bring off Blowers, sending Vale back on. Are pushing players forwards trying to get a goal back. Essex have a free-kick wide right the ball is lifted up into the area, bouncing Vale is after it, Harrison comes across her to tackle wins a goal kick as the ball is turned behind.

  GOAL! Into injury time Essex have possession on the left side Morgan on the drive with the ball hits a shot hard and low into the box, players in front of her, Brogan gets down to the floor to save, can't get hold of the ball, spinning past her into the middle of the six yard box, Vale is their running in on the follow-up to tap the ball over the line to make it 4-3.

  Not enough time left in the match to set-up a tense finish the final whistle blows and Suffolk begin their defence of the East Anglian Championship with a win.

Full time Suffolk FA Women 4-3 Essex FA Women 

  A good contest watched by a decent sized crowd under the lights, Suffolk leading early on, Essex coming back into it to equalise twice, Suffolk going on to open a 2 goal lead at 4-2 it was enough to see them to victory. Up next for Suffolk is an away trip to Hertfordshire scheduled to be played on Thursday 24th November with a 7:45pm kick-off. Essex are at home before that taking on Kent their match scheduled to take place on Thursday 3rd November with a 7:45pm kick-off. Hope to be at both games. 

 My thanks to Suffolk FA's Darryn Marsh for his help with the team details tonight. A good opening game in this season's East Anglian Counties Championship. 

Match Report - Netherton United Ladies v Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  A trip to Peterborough this Sunday, the venue The Grange to watch a match from the Cambridgeshire Women's Premiership with Netherton United Ladies hosting Cambridge United WFC Reserves.

  The season in Cambridgeshire has barely gotten started with just a handful of games having taken place in the Premiership to date with 2 of the 9 sides contesting the 2016/17 yet to get going. Both Netherton United Ladies and Cambridge United WFC Reserves have played 2 league matches to date. Both starting with a defeat then bouncing back with a win. 

  Netherton United Ladies run a number of youth sides as well as the ladies 1st team.  Started the season with a 1-0 home defeat against Newmarket Town Ladies, this was followed by 2-0 away defeat in the FA Women's Cup against higher league opponents Acle United Ladies. Since then however the club has enjoyed a run of 3 successive home games winning all 3 games 1 league and 2 cup matches scoring 19 goals along the way. A 4th successive home win today will see them move to the top of the Premiership, albeit early days.

  Cambridge United WFC Reserves are the current Premiership leaders recovering from a 2-1 defeat against newly promoted St Ives Town Ladies on the opening day. Won big 2 weeks later scoring 10 goals past another of the promoted sides Bourne Ladies to go to the top, victory today will see them extend that lead. A lot of player movement at the club over the close season new faces in both the 1st team squad (competing in FAWPL South East Division One) and the Reserves as the club looks to push up the women's football pyramid.

  The venue for today's league encounter The Grange in Peterborough, to the north of the town centre, the ground at the end of a newly build housing estate boasts a new 3G pitch with room inside for spectators to watch along one side. A clubhouse with bar and hot and cold refreshments available with multiple grass pitches beyond. A nice set-up all the better because the heavy rain that had blown through all morning was finally clear and it was a bright and sunny afternoon, with the odd black cloud dotted about.

  Netherton United Ladies starting XI - Katie Cooper, Lucy Johnson, Dita Upesjure, Camen Giles, Hannah Johnson, Jenna Nairn, Megan Parrett (C), Alice MacNicol, Georgia Parrett, Yasmin Green & Emily Johnson.
  subs - Lauren McKeever, Anna Hatcher & Savannah Evans

  Cambridge United WFC Reserves starting XI - Verity Crook, Sarah Carroll, Carolyn Sarafain, Liz Pamplin, Mel Findlater, Laura Baker, Gabrielle Whitehurst, Emily Ingle (C), Teonie Peyton, Ebony Rule & Lauren Gibson
  subs- Ellen Green, Jess Harvey, McKenzie McGranor & Vicky Hoover.

(roll on roll off substitutes)

   A minutes silence held before the game in honour of Paul McCann, a coach with Riverside FC who tragically passed away whilst falling ill competing in the Great Eastern Run recently.

  With Cambridge United WFC's 1st team game in the FAWPL Cup away to Portsmouth FC Ladies postponed early in the morning the Reserves side was ale to draft in Verity Crook to keep goal for today's match. New signing Jess Harvey having come in from Peterborough United Ladies was starting on the bench. Netherton United Ladies had a new signing on their bench too, Anna Hatcher joining the club from March Town United Ladies. It's the visitors to kick-off the 1st half, Cambridge wearing amber shirts and socks with black shorts. Netherton lined up opposite wearing red and black shirts with black shorts and socks. 

  Cambridge work the ball out to the right wing early on captain Emily Ingle pushing up that side of the pitch to win the ball, her attempted cross blocked by Netherton's Dita Upesjure defending that side of the pitch the ball out for a throw-in. Linking up with Ebony Rule from the throw Ingle sends the ball into the box, Netherton defend Camen Giles heading the ball clear of the area. The visitors continue to push forwards in the opening exchanges the ball won back in midfield is played up into Teonie Payton inside the D, helps the ball on into the box with Rule getting onto the end of it right of goal, shoots low aiming near post, Netherton goalkeeper Katie Cooper has the angle covered gathers the ball into her arms.

  Netherton get the ball forwards quickly, Jenna Nairn sending it long for Emily Johnson up front to chase, Cambridge are playing with 3 at the back, Johnson runs in behind Carolyn Sarafain on the left of the 3, looks to take the ball on into the area, Sarafain gets back with the attacker getting a foot on the ball to push it away from her runs on to Crook who claims the ball. 

  Pressuring the Netherton defence on the left wing, Peyton wins Cambridge the 1st corner of the game. Is a good delivery fired into the box with plenty of pace, Liz Pamplin (who can and has played in every position on the pitch) is up from the back coming onto the ball gets her head on it, puts it over the crossbar from 10 yards out. Is a competitive game a few strong challenges coming in early on complaints from both sides.

Teonie Peyton on the ball for Cambridge United WFC Reserves
looks to get away from Netherton's Georgia Parrett

  Mel Findlater pays the ball out of the Cambridge half up to Rule, back to goal she heads the ball down into the advancing Gabrielle Whitehurst she plays it to her midfield partner Laura Baker, returning to action after an injury in early pre-season. 25 yards from goal Baker juggles the ball between her feet before hitting a shot towards goal on the volley, up and over the defence drops safely into Cooper's gloves. The visitors have Netherton on the back foot in the opening 10 minutes. From a throw on the left side, Lauren Gibson looks to turn on the edge of the box as the ball is played into her feet falling back as she strikes the ball, lacks the power to beat Cooper at her near post.

  GOAL! The early pressure from the visitors tells as they take the lead on 11 minutes, working the ball up the right flank Cambridge win a throw, Ingle and Rule link up to get the ball into the box, a Netherton defender throws a leg out to deflect the ball out of the area is loose as it runs across the D central, is a race for the ball, Baker for Cambridge getting there just ahead of the defender takes the ball inside past her then hits a right foot shot low across the keeper into the bottom corner for her 1st goal of the season 0-1.

Laura Baker with the opening goal of the game for Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  Netherton look to move the ball forwards from the restart, captain Megan Parrett in midfield plays the ball out to Emily Johnson moving right to the right, turns back inside passing the ball inside to the advancing Nairn central, picks out Alice MacNicol coming inside from the left getting hold of the ball as she runs inside the box, left of goal the angle is against her as she squeezes a shot away the ball running along the ground Crook down to collect at her near post.

  The game is stretched from one end to the other with Cambridge playing it over the top for Gibson, Cooper rushing out of her box to kick clear manages to pick out Johnson on the right side, Georgia Parrett makes a run inside receives the ball, hits the cross on the move outside the box, Yasmin Green is there on the penalty spot the ball just evades her as she throws a leg at it. MacNicol has a pop at goal from distance for Netherton up and over the Cambridge defence like Baker's earlier effort drops safely for Crook to take cleanly.

  A throw on the left deep inside the Netherton half brings Cambridge a corner kick the delivery his headed near post by Gibson into the middle of the area, Megan Parrett heads the ball away. A freaky deflection puts Cambridge's Rule in on goal as Hannah Johnson's attempted clearance smashes against her own team mate having push out from the back the deflection sees the ball spin in behind Rule reacting quickest is after it carrying the ball into the area is one on one with the keeper, her touch just a fraction heavy as she arrives in the box allowed Cooper committed to sliding in at her feet to get hold of the ball pull it into her body on the ground.

 The strong tackling continues and Cambridge feeling they aren't getting the decisions are making their protests vocal. Johnson is caught in possession at the back by Gibson the Cambridge striker nicking the ball on the left outside the box, takes it on into the area looks to curl the ball into the top corner across goal, good save from Cooper as she throws herself at the ball pushes it wide her defence clearing far side. Cambridge keep possession inside the Netherton half, Sarafain coming forwards as Peyton wins a throw on the left, linking up with Baker, Sarafain is played in down the line coming into the area her cross is deflected behind by Hannah Johnson for a corner kick. The delivery into the six yard box his headed up into the air by Parrett, dropping amongst bodies is cleared away to the left top of the area, Baker latching onto the ball sends it back in towards goal, Cooper dives as the ball goes across her goal but leaves it confident it is racing wide.

 

Netherton United Ladies, Alice MacNicol

Peyton has said too much for the referees liking and get's her name in the book. Winning the ball wide on the right for Netherton, Georgia Parrett passes the ball in field into Nairn has MacNicol to her left plays the ball into her feet takes on the strike from distance whipping the ball up over the Cambridge defence from outside the box the shot whistles over the crossbar. Giles takes a painful knock defending for Netherton at the back, wants to continue but can't the home side making a change sending on Anna Hatcher to join the defence. 

  Play is drawn over the the right of the pitch with Cambridge attacking, Peyton moving central is in space and play is spread across to her as Gibson holds the ball up before laying it into Baker her pass finding Peyton, takes the ball on into the box, Netherton's Lucy Johnson gets back to try and force for wide of goal, left of the target getting closed down, Peyton gets a shot away with the outside of her boot runs wide across the face of goal. Rule is played in on goal moments later Gibson playing her in behind her shot is blasted in wide of the goal.

  GOAL! Late into the 1st half and Cambridge double their lead. Are awarded a free-kick some 40 yards out to the right of the Netherton box. Baker over the ball as players pile forwards, flights the ball into the area near post area, 2 Netherton defenders go for it comes off the shoulder of one falling inside the six yard box favourably for Cambridge's Whitehurst travelling forwards, the ball dropping into her path makes no mistake getting her foot over the ball sending her shot across the goal and into the back of the net 0-2.

Gabrielle Whitehurst scores late in the 1st half for Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  

Half-time Netherton United Ladies 0-2 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  A goal at either end of the 1st half sees Cambridge lead the match 2-0 with a strong 1st half display. Creating plenty of opportunities inside the Netherton final 3rd have had the home side on the back foot for much of the 1st 45 minutes. A few of the Netherton players letting themselves get distracted by the verbals flying around haven't been at their best. Haven't been able to get their strikers in behind the Cambridge back 3 who have won most things in the air. 2-0 is always a tricky scoreline all to often the next goal has a huge influence on where the final result will go as the 2 sides line up for the 2nd half, Netherton to kick-off.

  An early corner for Cambridge as Baker gets her foot on the ball sends a pass out to Ingle wide on the right taking the ball down the line Upesjure prevents the cross coming in turning the ball behind. The ball is sent long across the top of the six yard box, Pamplin far side gets something on the ball sends it high over the top of goal. 

  GOAL! An early goal in the 2nd half for Cambridge sees them extend their lead. Peyton full of running on the left wins the visitors a throw the ball is retained that side as players drift forwards through the middle, Findlater having been shielding the back 3 for much of the game is up field in front of the Netherton area as the ball is played in towards her left of the D she sees the bouncing ball onto her foot hitting it on the half volley getting it up and over the keeper to drop into the back of the net beyond with just 4 minutes of the 2nd half played 0-3. Her 1st goal for Cambridge.

Mel Findlater with her 1st goal for the
club early in the 2nd half to make it 3-0

  Netherton win a free kick the ball is played up towards the D, MacNicol inside in attempts to control her header the ball evading her, Cambridge fail to clear it rolling back to Nairn in midfield, MacNicol comes across to the left to receive the ball, shifts it between her feet to evade a challenge and runs with the ball down the line cutting it back on the byline into the middle of the area runs straight towards Green on the penalty spot, looks to open her body take her shot into the far corner the ball rolls the wrong side of the post.   

   Peyton wins Cambridge a corner attacking down the right. The ball in is headed back out to the right by Hatcher. Peyton to put the ball back into the box is headed down into the ground by Hannah Johnson, Whitehurst outside the box gets her foot over the bouncing ball gets her shot through the crowd, no trouble for Cooper as it runs wide of goal. Megan Parrett having taken a knock comes off for Netherton, Lauren McKeever coming on into midfield. 

  Lucy Johnson brings the ball up the right for Netherton rolls in into Georgia Parrett plays the ball inside into Green who strikes the ball early from outside the box, doesn't get off the ground rolls straight towards Crook who has time to set herself and gather. Savannah Evans comes on for Netherton. Cambridge make a change too bringing on McKenzie McGranor for Peyton. Straight away the substitute has a chance on goal ahead of play as the ball is played out from the back comes in field with Ingle moving inside helps the ball on into the box from 25 yards out McGranor gets her head on the ball tries to power it around Cooper pushes the ball wide of goal. A free kick in a dangerous area outside the box for Netherton as McKeever is fouled by Whitehurst. 25 yards out MacNicol over the ball goes for the shot her effort flashing over the crossbar. 

Netherton United Ladies, Lucy Johnson

  2nd change for the visitors as Rule comes off, Jess Harvey comes on to make her debut. Cambridge have a corner on the left. Before it is taken Netherton make a change Megan Parrett back on with Georgia coming off. Lucy Johnson does well for Netherton defending the corner getting hold of the ball play it out of the area before sending it up field, Baker from a deeper position regains possession looks to send the ball into the area, too long Cooper reaching up can pull the ball down into her body.

   Whitehurst bringing the ball over half-way passes into Gibson back to goal holds it up with Baker going past making a move to get into the box, Gibson attempts to roll the ball into her path inside the box Cooper commits early coming out to the edge of her area sliding in to push the ball away from the attacker. Harvey getting hold of the ball on the wing looks to lift the ball back in towards goal, Cooper back on her feet quickly snatches the ball down holding onto the shot. 

   Cambridge bring players forward to attack another corner kick on the left, the initial ball into the box is headed back out towards the taker Ingle, sends the ball back in central, Gibson tries to get her head on the ball, Hatcher defends well getting their 1st to clear the ball. Linking up on the right side, Ingle plays the ball down the line for Harvey, Upesjure stops the cross conceding the corner. The ball comes in quickly along the six yard box, is on Gibson far post area before she get her head under the ball, deflects off her up over the bar.

Cambridge United WFC Reserves, Jess Harvey with
Netherton's Dita Upesjure

  Baker has the ball at her feet outside the Netherton area, moves forwards with it shifting it between her feet before shooting, taking a deflection the ball runs wide for a corner kick on the left. Cooper gets up amongst the crowd gathered near post to punch the ball on wide across the six yard box. A double change for Cambridge, Carroll and Findlater coming off, Ellen Green and Vicky Hoover coming on with 15 minutes left to play. Has been a heated contest between Hannah Johnson and Gibson all game both are called to the referee, Gibson yellow carded for dissent when her objections go too far. 

Lauren Gibson & Anna Hatcher

  Harvey attempts to turn in behind to attack the box on the right side outside the box as Whitehurst gets the ball into her feet, moving into the box Upesjure recovers to close her down and slides in to take the ball out for a corner. Going long the ball is cleared the area cleared, Cambridge come again Hoover winning the ball deep in midfield plays it into Baker who picks out Harvey right, crosses the ball along to face of the box for Gibson closed down quickly by Hatcher shifts the ball to get a shot away doesn't get a good connection with the ball spins wide along the ground. Gibson's last action of the game as she comes off, Rule back on. 

  Baker is brought down right on the edge of the area as she attempts to get into the box, left of the D it's Baker over the ball, goes for goal her six flashing wide across the six yard box. A corner for Cambridge left side the delivery whipped into the six yard box, McGranor central gets her head on the ball places it up over the crossbar. Into the final minutes of the match Baker is brought down again 25 yards out in a central position. Pamplin over the set-piece goes for goal the strike heading for the top corner, Cooper throwing herself at the ball may have gotten the slightest touch the ball hitting the crossbar and spinning away to the left.

Liz Pamplin comes close from the set-piece for Cambridge United WFC Reserves

 A corner on the left in injury time, Pamplin closest to it inside the area can't turn it goalwards plays it back to McGranor who attempts to lift the ball in across the face of goal with the outside of her boot, Green can't quite reach it as she lunges for it in a central position the ball is cleared as the final whistle blows.

   

Full time Netherton United Ladies 0-3 Cambridge United WFC Reserves

  Cambridge win 3-0 a comfortable win to earn the 3 points move onto six points at the top of the table are joined on 6 points by Newmarket Town Ladies who won 2-0 this afternoon too away to St Ives Town. A good performance from the visitors creating alot going forwards the back 3 not letting anything get in behind them. Not too much for Netherton to complain about weren't at their best today the early goal 2nd half a blow couldn't find a way back into the game can only get back on the training pitch look to get it right next match.

  My thanks to both clubs for their help with the teams today much appreciated. 

Match Report - Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

It's another FA Women's Cup weekend plenty of mouth watering ties out there in 3rd Round Qualifying as the FAWPL Division One sides enter the competition, 64 games in all. This Sunday the Supporting Women's Football Blog travels to the Glassworld Stadium to watch Histon Ladies v Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Histon Ladies are a new name to women's football this season however they are an established club in the Eastern Region Women's Football League (ERWFL) playing in the Premier Division previously known as Great Shelford Ladies they are one of the leading women's football sides in Cambridgeshire. Merging with Histon FC to better strengthen the future longevity of the club as Histon have a girls youth set-up that can now progress into women's football within the club.Play their home matches at the Glassworld Stadium in Histon just off the A14 north of Cambridge. Were away to Northamptonshire side Moulton Ladies in 2nd Round Qualifying of the FA Women's Cup won the game 5-2 to set up a home tie against Peterborough Northern Star Ladies.

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies having been relegated from FAWPL Midlands Division One last season are back in the East Midlands Region Women's Football League (EMWFL) playing in the Premier Division are looking to bounce back up at the 1st attempt have started the season well 2nd in the table from 4 wins out of 4. Today's away trip their 1st action in this season's FA Women's Cup after they were awarded a walk over in the previous round.

  Histon FC's, Glassworld Stadium the venue for today's match, a good sized stadium with a large main stand housing the bar over looking one side of the pitch plenty of covered seating, with covered areas running along all sides of the pitch. A large pitch, not the flattest a good covering of grass. A few dark clouds overhead threatening rain later in the afternoon at kick-off the ground was bathed in warm sunshine.

 Histon Ladies starting XI - Helen Slipper, Abigail Davies, Lucy Julian, Claire Andrews, Alison Wright, Clare Creek, Sophie Lanham, Katie Saunders (C), Sophie Ugur, Jordanne Sillitoe & Sophie Hopkin.
 subs - Stacey Roper, Charlotte Westrope & Amanda Binge.

 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies starting XI - Sarah Hudson, Jodie Bartle (C), Larissa Frederick, Samara Iredale, Deva Rawlings, Chanade Henderson, Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse, Katie Steward, Donna Nicholls, Cassie Steward & Vicky Gallagher.
 subs -

   Due to a good number of their players being unable for the fixture Peterborough North Star Ladies had the bare 11 available today. It's the visitors to kick-off the 1st half of this FA Women's Cup tie, wearing white shirts, red shorts and socks with Histon lined up opposite wearing red and black vertical striped shirts, black shorts and socks. The sun bright when is comes out from behind the clouds posing a potential problem for the Peterborough defence. Win the ball at the back and play it forwards quickly sending a pass long to Cassie Steward peeling out into space on the right, flashes a cross into the Histon area goes long gathered by Donna Nicholls on the left outside the box rolls it inside for Vicky Gallagher her shot is deflected behind for the 1st corner of the game.

   Good start by Peterborough, Cassie Steward moving across the front of the Histon area looking to receive the ball, moves to the left as Chanade Henderson plays the ball forwards, turning inside as she reaches the top of the area Steward attempts to roll the ball across into Gallagher, Histon centre back Claire Andrews makes a timely interception. The home side are awarded a free-kick on halfway left side the ball played up the line is helped on coming into Jordanne Sillitoe outside the Peterborough box left corner hits the shot on the turn, is blocked at close quarters.

  Sophie Ugur on the left side of attack for Histon wins the ball inside her half and brings it forwards, travelling down the line, Peterborough captain, Jodie Bartle looks to push her wide, Ugur manages to check her run turn inside bearing down on the area closely marked tries to play the ball in behind for Sillitoe coming into the area from the right side, the pass is too close to goalkeeper, Sarah Hudson who has moved off her line and gathers. 

Histon Ladies, Sophie Ugur

  Both sides looking to release their attacking players early, Peterborough win a throw on the right as the ball is lifted up into the Histon box. Coming down the line the ball is lifted into the area by Katie Steward, Alison Wright at the back for Histon hooks the ball away to safety. Pushing into the Peterborough half the ball pings around between the midfield players before Sophie Lanham gets her foot on the ball very nearly releases Sophie Hopkin in round the back of the visitors defence, Samara Iredale stretching gets in the path of the ball.

  Breaking up a Peterborough attack, Lucy Julian clears the ball long, the attempted header to clear it at the back for the visitors only succeeds in glancing it on with Sillitoe capitalising racing in behind to bear down on the area. The Peterborough defence recovers well to make up the ground pressure Sillitoe as she reaches the D right side manages to get a shot away, lacking pace it nevertheless beats the advancing Hudson, turns to see the ball roll a foot wide of the post.

  Peterborough push forwards, ex-Lynn Ladies player Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse in the middle battling to win possession of the ball in the middle pushes the ball on for Cassie Steward is tackled outside the box by Claire Creek as she lines up a shot from outside the box. Gallagher has a pop at goal from distance as a clearance runs back to her 40 yards out left side the ball turning away from the target out for a goal-kick. The ball is won back by the visitors from the goal-kick Hopkins-Duckhouse out to Katie Steward on the right squares a cross into the six yard box turned behind for a corner. The corner is cleared near post outside the area Histon give away a free-kick.

Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse on the ball for Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 In front of the D, a good position to shoot from, Gallagher is over the ball for Peterborough, lifts the ball around the wall sending it in on target comes at goalkeeper Katie Slipper at chest height makes the save pushing the ball away to her left conceding a throw. Peterborough are seeing more of the ball as the 1st half reaches the midway point, Larissa Frederick breaks up a Histon attack on the right plays the ball into Henderson in the middle lays it back to Iredale who plays the ball long up field to Cassie Steward moving into space on the right side, takes the ball on into the area shoots as Slipper starts to come the keeper makes the save the ball blocked deflected behind for the corner kick. the corner from the right is fizzed in low towards Bartle moving towards it top of the area, hits the shot as it runs onto her boot turns it towards goal lands in the side netting. 

  Hopkins-Duckhouse gets the ball out to Gallagher on the left side the striker driving up the line with the ball turns in field reaching the edge of the area pulls the trigger shooting near post, Slipper gets down in an attempt to stop it, a loud thump as the ball cannons off the base of the post. Gallagher is then caught offside as Frederick sends the ball out of the back as she tackles Sillitoe. Lanham in midfield for Histon sends the ball over the top putting Hopkin in behind, Bartle gets back with her shoulder to shoulder as they reach to top of the area the defender getting a toe on the ball to push it back to her keeper. 

 Deva Rawlings brings the ball on through the middle for Peterborough plays in on for Henderson who looks to put Cassie Steward through on goal, Wright closes her down tackling to put the ball out for a throw on the right. Lanham looks to release Ugur on the left side for Histon into the visitors half Bartle gets across to make the tackle upends Ugur, gets enough of the ball however in runs long out for a corner kick. Histon captain, Katie Saunders to take the corner kick a good delivery flashed across the Peterborough six yard box, Sillitoe rising far post can't get anything on the ball. 

Peterborough's Deva Rawlings with Histon's Katie Saunders

  Counter attack from Peterborough the ball played up to Henderson on the halfway line on the left side holds the ball up well as her teammates bomb forwards, pushing in field plays the ball central to Gallagher she helps it on for Katie Steward to her right 25 yards out right of goal Steward goes for goal hitting an vicious ball in swerves in the air slightly taking it away from Slipper diving across her goal, smashes against the post and rebounds across the six yard box, Gallagher coming in on the follow up can't get a touch on the ball as it flies across her, Abigail Davies sends it clear of the Histon area.

  Saunders plays the ball forwards for Histon, Hopkin up top gives chase is pushed wide as she retains possession of the ball taking it into the left corner has Ugur available up the line passing the ball to her looks to travel inside with the ball, is brought down the free-kick given away. Lanham over the set-piece 25 yards out to the left of the box, gets the ball up into the air on target, Hudson shifting across her goal is able to get behind the shot and gather into her body.

Sophie Lanham sends watches her free-kick fly in towards the Peterborough goal.

  Peterborough have Henderson on the ball the middle holds the ball up back to goal before turn cleverly and threading the ball in behind for Gallagher to run onto unleashes a shot early outside the box left of the D, comes at Slipper quickly a good reactive save with her feet to stop the shot is deflected back out of the area into the D with Cassie Steward running onto it, intending to hit it hard, does so, Wright throwing herself in front of the attacker blocks the shot sending it out for a throw on the right as the game moves into 1st half injury time.

 GOAL! From the throw-in Peterborough take the lead netting right on the stroke of half-time. Cassie and Katie Steward combine on that side of the pitch to work the ball on down the right wing the cross is fired into the six yard box running in with pace along the ground, Gallagher is well positioned in the middle leaning back as the ball runs onto her boot turns it into the back of the net to give the visitors the lead 0-1.

Half-time Histon Ladies 0-1 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

 Right on the stroke of half-time Peterborough get themselves in front, have had the better of the attack, striking the woodwork twice. The goal a blow for Histon late in the 1st half denting the confidence having battled to keep it to 0-0 for so long. A narrow advantage at the break the next goal could well be a crucial one. Histon, once Creek emerges from the tunnel have kick-off 2nd half looking to get back on level terms.

 An early counter 2nd half for Peterborough as they win possession of the ball in the middle, Rawlings on for Cassie Steward who has made a run to get clear of the Histon defence right of goal, bearing down on the box is closed down, shoots as she is challenged falling back doesn't get much power behind the shot runs safely through to Slipper inside her six yard box. 

 Sillitoe is fouled on the right as she takes the ball on inside the Peterborough half. Saunders on the ball sends it long into the box aiming near post the attempted defensive clearance sends the ball on across the six yard box Iredale rises far side to head the ball out of the area, falls to Ugur outside the box attempts to flight the ball back in her effort lands on the roof of the net.

  A powerful run on the ball down the right for Peterborough's Katie Steward sends it on for Cassie Steward who whips a curling cross into the Histon area, Wright just about gets something on the ball backpedalling with Gallagher coming in central, runs on across the area, Davies tries to push it further wide, runs to Nicholls left side in the box, hits the shot in towards goal, Davies blocks it the ball spinning wide across the face of goal for a corner kick. The corner from the right side is played in deep to the top of the area, Iredale gets up well to head the ball on target bouncing down is knocked away from goal by Hopkins-Duckhouse inside the six yard box in front of the keeper as she attempts to help it on into the back of the net.

Katie Steward battles with Histon's Sophie Ugur for the ball

  The ball is played up the right side by Davies at the back for Histon looking to pick out Sillitoe on the wing, Frederick gets across her to play the ball out for the throw, take quickly the ball is played inside into Sillitoe outside the box on the right, flicks the ball up and hits the shot on the turn lifting the ball up into the air lands on the roof of the net. 

Histon Ladies, Jordanne Sillitoe with, Peterborough's Larissa Frederick

  Rawlings on the ball for Peterborough passes on to Hopkins-Duckhouse, breaking forwards with pace she sends the ball forwards into the area on for Gallagher central, the challenge comes in as much of the Peterborough striker is caught as the ball as it is pushed wide, the advantage to the visitors with Katie Steward latching onto the ball, drills a shot in towards goal from 12 yards runs wide of the near post.

  Peterborough are starting to dominate pushing players forwards putting the Histon back line under pressure. The ball finds its way out to Nicholls on the left pushes on into the box Davies closing her down manages to push her wide getting into the six yard box, Nicholls squeezes a shot away the ball in low towards the near post, Slipper down sharply looks for a moment the ball might sneak in past her however the goalkeeper has done enough to kill the balls pace with her initial save, grabs it from going over the line. Katie Steward attacking on the right cuts inside into the box lets fly with a rasping effort on the angle, Slipper covering her near post makes the save pushing the ball behind for the corner. A good delivery from the set-piece on the right the ball headed on by Iredale near post is nodded down by Henderson far post to Nicholls outside the area takes the ball into the middle letting loose a shot inside the D, coming through bodies Slipper is in the right place to see the shot gathers it into her body.

  GOAL! Busy start to the 2nd half just a quarter of an hour played, the 2nd goal of the game comes as Peterborough building the momentum double their advantage. The visitors push players into the box for a corner on the right side the delivery is in towards the top of the area the ball helped on for Nicholls in a central position moves the ball on into the D before unleashing a strike, her effort smashing down off the crossbar into the six yard box, the only player to react is Hopkins-Duckhouse right side inside the six yard box, puts her shot straight at Slipper the keeper parrying the ball down, giving Hopkins-Duckhouse another stab a goal send the ball across the keeper this time into the back of the net for her 1st goal for the club 0-2.

Jodie Hopkins-Duckhouse nets Peterborough's 2nd goal

  Histon respond with a double change midfielders Lanham and Creek coming off to be replaced by Stacey Roper and Charlotte Westrope. Henderson and Nicholls combine in attack for Peterborough as the ball is worked out to the left, Henderson helping it on for Nicholls on the wing, brings the ball inside into the area, Davies on her giving no room for a shot or turn Nicholls lays the ball back out of the area to Henderson takes on the 1st time shot, lifts the ball up over the crossbar.

 GOAL! 5 minutes after going 2 up Peterborough extend their lead, putting pressure on the goal-kick as they have for much of the 2nd half the ball is won by Henderson with Gallagher already on the move to get in behind the Histon defence into the box Henderson plays the ball into her run, Slipper already on the move to close her down slides in, Gallagher coolly takes the ball around her to the right and taking a stride forwards sends the ball into the empty net beyond 0-3.

  GOAL! No sooner have they taken a 3-0 lead Peterborough go on to add a 4th goal. Pushing right from the restart forcing Histon to give the ball away inside their own half have the home side stretched as the ball is played forwards into Nicholls, Gallagher moves out to the left wing looking for the pass taking up the space Nicholls was heading for the winger gives her the ball and turns back inside looking to get into the area as Gallagher takes the ball down the line cuts the cross back into the box, stretching Wright almost gets it away, runs on for Nicholls far post outside the six yard box gets her foot up over the ball to turn it over the line to score 0-4.

  3 goals in 7 minutes have totally altered the game Peterborough getting on top and getting the goals, Histon look shell-shocked losing their shape in danger of conceding more as Henderson carries the ball through the centre of midfield plays the ball out to Cassie Steward moving right into the box hits the shot on the run plants the ball into the side netting. Henderson on the ball in the middle again plays the ball into the area for Gallagher drifting free on the left of the six yard box drags her shot wide across the face of goal. 

  GOAL! A devastating spell from the visitors to take a firm grip on this FA Women's Cup tie as they go on to score again a 4th goal in an 11 minute burst. Rawlings bringing the ball on plays it forwards for Katie Steward her pass inside to Cassie Steward she goes for the shot from outside the box. Coming in low Slipper diving to her left manages to get a glove on the ball push it wide, running across goal, Nicholls is free that side running onto the ball inside the six yard box buries it into the roof of the net to make it 0-5.

  Roper comes deep to to receive the ball for Histon, holding it up well gets it out to the right for Sillitoe, manages to evade Frederick's tackle taking the ball on rushes her shot from outside the box the ball swinging wide of goal. Histon make a change at the back, Wright has collected a series of knocks to her ankle is replaced by Amanda Binge. I retreat to the cover of the stands as a heavy sprawl of rain blows across the pitch. Henderson sees the ball into her feet inside the box from Hopkins-Duckhouse for Peterborough holding it up lays it into the D for Gallagher, falling back as she hits the shot her effort runs wide of the target.

 

Abigail Davies gets the ball clear
for Histon Ladies

Cassie Steward stands with her hands on her hips inside the Histon box bemused as her attempt to lob the keeper from inside the box as the ball is sent over the top results with her effort smashing against the crossbar coming down in the area the home defence clear it. Henderson taking the ball down the right wing for Peterborough is pushed down into the corner, escapes her marker to shift the ball inside, curling a cross into the six yard box Slipper takes the catch, not distracted by Katie Steward running across her.

  A little bit of pushing and shoving and a few words said out of turn sees the referee get his book out late on handing out a yellow card to Peterborough's Frederick and Nicholls. Roper for Histon also receives a yellow. The free-kick is with Histon inside the Peterborough half on the right side. The ball played long into the box by Saunders is headed away by Iredale. Late counter by the visitors as they push players forwards, Cassie Steward onto the ball inside the box shoots an excellent save from Slipper at pointblank range. The ball spinning to the right Katie Steward to put back in Slipper saves again is fouled this time, no time left the referee blows the final whistle.

Full-time Histon Ladies 0-5 Peterborough Northern Star Ladies

  Peterborough Northern Star Ladies win the tie 0-5 and advance in the FA Women's Cup going into the hat for Monday's 4th Round Qualifying draw. A dominant 2nd half display getting on top of Histon and scoring 4 goals in a 11 minute spell to dominate the scoreline. Ultimately created far more chances getting the goals in the 2nd half. Histon battled hard to keep the scoreline down 0-1 behind at half-time had a couple of half chances to level thing's up early in the 2nd half but were undone in the final half hour.

  My thanks to both sides for their help with the team details today. Best of luck to Peterborough Northern Star Ladies in the next round. 

  *UPDATE* The draw for 4th Round Qualifying has been made and Peterborough Northern Star Ladies will be away to Kettering Town Ladies - tie scheduled for Sunday 13th November.