U14 Girls v Hampstead (away), League - 26.11.11

Hampstead provided tough opposition for Bishops Stortford's U14 Girls in Mill Hill. Stortford took a 2-0 lead with goals from Abby and Inka but Hampstead had brought it back to 2-2 by half-time. Great determination in an intense second half finally paid dividends when Abby knocked home the winner from Ellie-Mae's cross to keep the U14s four points clear at the top of the Herts Girls League.

Result: won 2-3
Scorers: Abby (2), Inka
Team: Skye, Faye, Emily (c), Tyler, Louise, Ellie-Mae, Scarlett, Abby, Inka, Elly, Abigail
Subs: Tia

U14 Girls v Bedwell Rangers (Home), League - 12.11.11

U14 Girls beat second placed Bedwell Rangers to go three points clear at the top of the Herts Girls League with a fine 5-0 win. Abby Springham and Abigail Stevens scored one each with striker Tia Dye bagging a hat-trick, whilst Simi Sunda and Louise Crocker standing out with great defensive performances.

Result: won 5-0
Scorers: Tia (3), Abby, Abigail
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Louise, Ellie-Mae, Scarlett, Abby, Inka, Hannah, Abigail
Subs: Faye, Elly, Tia

U14 Girls v Bury Rangers (Home), League - 4.11.11

The Under 14 Girls extended their run to 25 unbeaten league games (24 of them victories) in a glorious game of football against local rivals Bury Rangers at Freidberg Avenue. They took an early 1-0 lead through an Inka strike before falling behind 1-3 by early in the second half. A spirited comeback was triggered by an outlandish goal from Abigail from close to half way that sparked the team into top form. Inka scored again to bring the scores level at 3-3 and in the last 10 mins it was almost all Stortford but they couldn't quite beat the Rangers keeper despite several good opportunities. The U14s retain their position on top of the HGFPL.

Result: drew 3-3
Scorers: Inka (2), Abigail
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Louise, Faye, Scarlett, Inka, Abigail, Ellie-Mae. Tia
Subs: not used - Abby, Elly, Hannah

U14 Girls v Cambridge City (away), friendly - 29.10.11

An under strength team visited Cambridge for a 9 a side friendly as a work-out prior to their important match against Bury Rangers. Whilst the benefit might not be obvious from the scoreline, the team worked hard throughout and came away with feet firmly on the ground, ready for challenges to come.

Result: lost 5-0
Scorers:
Team: Skye, Emily (c), Abigail, Louise, Inka, Ellie-Mae, Tia, Abby, Elly

U14 Girls v Letchworth GCE (Home), League - 22.10.11

Match report will appear here

Result: won 8-1
Scorers: Inka (4), Louise (2), Abigail (2)
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Abigail, Scarlett, Inka, Ellie-Mae, Abby, Tia, Hannah
Subs: Louise, Faye

U14 Girls v AFC Kempston (Away), League - 15.10.11

Our merry band headed northwest this week for Kempston in Bedfordshire and fresh opposition. Another glorious morning and a fine playing surface brought out the best in the Stortford girls and they left with another victory under their belts.

Two minutes in and Bishops Stortford were on the scoresheet. Play moved up the left and then a switch to the right found Ellie-Mae in space. She immediately descended on the goal and found the net with a trade mark thunderbolt strike that the keeper could do nothing about. Not to be outdone in the early stages, Kempston a similar route and were equally successful, their shot from wide left leaving Skye no chance. 1-1.

Stortford's second most likely crossed the line a couple of times - Emily initially unleashed a shot from distance that Kempston's keeper couldn't hold on to. Tia was on hand in the resulting scramble to get a shot on target. If this initial effort didn't cross the line her second attempt did, a header over the defenders on the line that put the initiative back with the visitors.

Tia was denied a second headed goal at the end of a nice passing move, Simi finding Ellie-Mae who crossed in to the box, Tia's header just slipping past the post. Tia's brace however was achieved shortly afterwards when Abigail received the ball just inside the box. Her inventive play found space and then Tia, whose first attempt was saved. Her second attempt wasn't - a left footed strike taking the score to 3-1.

A through ball from Scarlett found Tia who held the ball before up, beat a defender and then bagged her first-half hat-trick with a right foot shot that left no-one in doubt of her fine finishing ability.

Inka secured Stortford's fifth, heading down a ball in from Simi and then slamming home to complete a consumate first half performance from the blues.

A hamstring tweak prevented Faye taking the field for the second half but the rest of the team were in fine fettle and set about dominating Kempston through possession football. It was therefore against the run of play then that Kempston were first to score, a fine finish again leaving Skye with no chance to save.

Scarlett delivered a goal to reward Stortford's dominance, smashing high into the net, before the scoring was completed 9 minutes from the end when Emily arrived late to meet a low and powerful corner from Ellie-Mae and score her first of the season. This was a performance of real quality, in terms of goalscoring, movement off the ball, team work and most of all retention of possession. Well done girls.

Result: won 2-7
Scorers: Tia (3), Ellie-Mae, Inka, Scarlett, Emily
Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Louise, Faye, Scarlett, Inka, Ellie-Mae Tia, Hannah
Subs: Abigail

U14 Girls v Enfield Town (Home), League - 8.10.11

A new team provided the opposition this week - Enfield Town - up from the 'big smoke' to sunny North East Hertfordshire and a game in which they and their manager contributed to an entertaining morning at Freidberg Avenue.

In the early exchanges all the danger was coming from Bishops Stortford who started in their usual irrepressible style. Ellie-Mae found the beating of her opposite number early on and made space from a shot from wide on the right. The keeper managed to deal with the initial ball but couldn't hold on, leaving Scarlett to pounce on the loose ball and secure the first goal of the game. 1-0.

Stirred into action by the early deficit, Enfield organised a break, but Tyler was on hand to make an important and committed tackle, clearing the ball and taking a tumble to keep the visitors at bay. Emily was also called into action shortly afterwards, Enfield now aware that it takes something special to breach Bishops Stortford's defences.

The home team blues soon took the opportunity to show Enfield how to do it - Abby working on the right to get in a cross to Scarlett. Her shot was blocked but Tia was on hand to tidy up the rebound and take the score to 2-0.

The third goal was direct and clinical. Skye tidied up a through ball and noticed Ellie-Mae in space on the wing. Her goal kick picked her out and seconds later the score was 3-0, Ellie-Mae streaking up the left flank before cutting in on her right foot and planting the ball powerfully home. 

Stortford's dangerous winger turned provider for the fourth goal, moving up the left before crossing to Abigail who sauntered round the keeper and calmly finished.  4-0.
Second half changes saw Ellie-Mae and Abigail make way for Elly and Hannah who both slotted in to forward positions and take a ring side position to see beautiful interlinking from Stortford's centre midfield pairing - Scarlett dribbled forward and when her direct passage was blocked, laid off to Inka. A first time ball came back and Scarlett finished powerfully to stretch the lead to 5-0 and pick up her second of the game.
Emily made an important intervention to stifle an Enfield attack before Stortford looked to add to their tally. Faye and Tia combined nicely on the right and Simi put in a great ball to Inka whose shot curled temptingly round the right hand upright.
Scarlett took a rest now, Ellie-Mae replacing her in midfield as Enfield managed to put a nice move together down the right that saw a first time finish pulled one back from the visitors. Ellie-Mae nearly responded immediately, a fine header and control setting her up to head into the danger area, her shot producing a good save from Enfield's keeper.
Enfield bagged another goal to make it 5-2 but any possibility of a late rally was put quickly to bed in the closing stages. Inka produced fine footwork to make space in the box and slot home a fine solo effort and Ellie-Mae wrapped up the scoring with her second of the game, Scarlett picking her out on the right, a pass from which she rifled home for her second and a final score line of 7-2.

Result: won 7-2
Scorers: Scarlett (2), Ellie-Mae (2), Tia, Abigail, Inka
Team: Skye, Simi, Faye, Emily (c), Tyler, Scarlett, Inka, Hannah, Ellie-Mae Tia, Abigail, Faye
Subs: Elly, Abby

U14 Girls v Watford Ladies (away), League Cup - 1.10.11

Watford Ladies' ground had a sub-contintental feel as both teams arrived across a carpet of sparkling, dew-drenched grass to a pitch bathed in golden sunshine, the surrounding mature trees ringing to the calls of ring-necked parakeets, the temperature already touching the 20s by the 10 o'clock kick-off time. Beautiful as the indian summer conditions were, they were tough to play in on a big pitch, but the Stortford girls were wily enough to make the ball do the work, passing to team mates in space and moving the ball easily across the park. A few minutes in and the ball was passed back to Simi, supporting an attack from right back. Her dangerous high cross into the area was too much for the defence to deal with as they sought to beat attackers to the ball and it was knocked over the line from a home team foot. 1-0 to the visitors.

The visitors second goal was of great quality, the ball moving swiftly between Inka and Scarlett before being spread out wide to Abby. Her cross picked out Inka who laid off to Scarlett - her ferocious goal bound shot was blocked by a brave defender, but Abigail pounced and knocked home the rebound, 2-0.

It was Faye's turn now to get in on the action after her solid start at left back. Picking the ball up in midfield she played a neat one-two with Scarlett and slammed home for her third goal of the season.

Stortford's midfield pair combined well again for the team's fourth, Inka carrying forward, exchanging passes with Scarlett and then picking her spot high into the net.

A change in personnel brought Ellie-Mae on for Tyler in central defence and Simi on for Abby in midfield as Bishop's Stortford maintained their control of proceedings. Simi made an early impact with a slippery run down the right that earned a corner. Skye stepped up to take it, released from keeping duties for the second half, her cross slipping unmolested over the line for a goal. Not bad for a first touch! 5-0 to the visitors.

The final score fell to Tia, whose tireless running upfront deserved reward, as she touched home a powerful shot from Ellie-Mae who had picked up the ball in midfield and charged in to unleash another powerful strike.

By the end the heat had risen high in the glass and hot, tired bodies ambled back to the cars, another win under the belt and a step forward into the next round of the League Cup

Result: won 0-6
Scorers: OG, Faye, Inka, Abigail, Skye, Tia
Team: Skye, Simi, Ellie-Mae, Emily (c), Tyler, Scarlett, Inka, Elly, Hannah, Abby, Abigail
Subs: Tia, Faye

U14 Girls v Letchworth Garden City Eagles (away), League - 24.9.11

Another fine September morning greeted both teams as they arrived at the home of Letchworth Eagles. The pitch was in fine condition, the short turf providing a beautiful playing surface that looked sure to suit Stortford's passing game.
The opening minutes were competitive, an early chance falling to a breaking Inka whose shot passed wide of the left hand post. Scarlett forced a save from the Eagles keeper as another chance showed that the blues were starting to take control. In usual style the back four dealt with any threats calmly and with great skill, passing out to the midfield or retaining possession. In attack the team were equally in control, working for openings without panic, prising a chance through a deep set opposition. Abigail wriggled through and set up a chance for Faye that went high. The first goal was worth the wait, intricate passing between Scarlett and Inka on the edge of the box sent Scarlett through to billow the net.
Rewarded with a goal, Stortford continued to work hard, Louise in particular having a blinder at left back.  The chances were coming regularly but as the game headed for half-time, all went high or wide of the target and the single goal remained the difference at the break.
'Same again please' was the half-time request. With the quality so high the goals were bound to come and another duly did after sustained pressure. Hannah and Elly combined well on the left to create a shooting chance, the deflected shot falling to Inka who made it 2-0 to the visitors.
Simi replaced Tia up front as Stortford sought a third goal. Scarlett shot sweetly with the outside of the right foot, well saved by the Letchworth's goalie - Inka rained in another, again saved, but the third shot was sent home by Inka as she pounced with the keeper out of position. Hannah had a double chance saved before Ellie-Mae who had moved to centre-back, collected the ball deep in her own half and surged forward, slaloming through midfield and defence before rounding the keeper and planting the ball home - a devastating solo run that brought the score to 4-0.
Inka hit the cross-bar from a free-kick later in the half right hand side.
Ellie-Mae corner right, over the keeper, Tia blasts home.
No more goals but plenty of sublime play entertained the touchline to the close - Ellie-Mae ripped open the right side of the defence repeatedly, on one occasion sending in a cross that just evaded two arriving strikers and Abigail seeing her effort slip wide. The last chance came to Ellie-Mae, Scarlett and Inka again unpicking the lock, but Ellie's shot could only hit the post.
A quality performance all-round. On to the next.

Result: won 0-5
Scorers: Inka (2), Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Tia
Team: Skye, Simi, Louise, Emily (c), Tyler, Scarlett, Inka, Faye, Ellie-Mae, Abigail, Tia
Subs: Elly, Hannah

U14 Girls v Watford Ladies (home), League - 17.9.11

The start of the season is always an exciting time and the skies above Freidberg Avenue bathed the pitches in glorious autumnal sunshine as teams assembled for the first forays. With the Under 13s and 14s playing simultaneously on adjacent pitches the air was filled with cheers and applause all morning.
Stortford took to the field in a 442 formation to take on Watford Ladies and playing uphill, they quickly took command.
Tia was first to get an opportunity, though was unable to convert an early one on one. The ball was scrambled away and Scarlett picked up the loose ball but but couldn't quite find the target from distance.
The next chance came from a corner - Ellie-Mae to Scarlett, back to Ellie-Mae who sent in a ball that Inka just failed to get good contact on.M Sc corner.
Watford managed a quick break but this was quickly dealt with by the defence who took possession then worked the ball away, finding Ellie-Mae who made a trademark surging run forward. Ellie was instrumental by the same route shortly after, sliding down the right and crossing to Abigail. With a deft touch Abigail lifted the ball over the defence with perfect weight for Tia to run-on to and finish neatly round the keeper. 1-0 to the Blues
Scarlett showed some great footwork in midfield and had another attempt from distance, but it was a corner that double the lead. This time Ellie-Mae sent the ball deep and long, Abigail meeting the ball with a sweet volley that made it 2-0.
First substitutions now, Scarlett and Ellie-Mae retiring to make way for Abby and Faye. Another Watford break was again dissipated by Emily who stood firm in the centre of defence all morning.
Bishop's Stortford further consolidated their lead with a landmark effort from Inka who shot from distance into the top left hand corner to score her 100th goal for the club. 3-0.
Scarlett took over from Inka now as the game headed towards half-time.An offside whistle denied the team a fourth goal for only a couple of minutes, Ellie-Mae picking up the ball in midfield and dribbling through - her first shot saved but she made sure with a second attempt the slid between keeper and post. 4-0.
The fifth was another that came direct from a corner - Scarlett swinging the ball in from the right which Abby was on hand to tuck home.
As the minutes ticked down to the break, there was a slight tendency to over dribble and take pot-shots from distance, perhaps understandable at the end of a long, uphill half that had produced five goals.

The team started the second half with the same formula as the finished with the half, though changes quickly brough Tyler on for Emily and Inka on up front for Tia. Scarlett and Inka, the two re-united midfield maestros combined in beautiful passing play to produce the sixth goal of the game, Scarlett sending the final pass onto Inka who stroked home. 6-0
Tired Watford legs and lowering heads brought further space in the game, exploited by Abigail in a move down the left that saw her cross planted home by Faye for her second of the game. 7-0.
Louise and Elly combined to win the ball in the next scoring attack, passing it onto Abigail whose final pass left Inka to beat the keeper for her hat-trick. 8-0.
The pair reversed roles for the ninth, Inka picking out Abigail to blast home her second of the game, with the final score coming again via Inka who ran down the right and crossed to Faye who rammed home to take the score to double figures.
A terrific first league outing against new opposition and one that puts down a marker to the rest of the league. Letchworth next week. Hold onto your hats, we are off and running!

Result: won 10-0
Scorers: Inka (3), Abigail (2), Faye (2), Abby, Ellie-Mae, Tia
Squad: Skye, Simi, Louise, Emily (c), Tyler, Scarlett, Inka, Elly, Ellie-Mae, Abigail, Tia
Subs: Abby, Faye

HGFPL Pre-season Tournament

Despite best efforts, no pre-season friendlies could be arranged this year, so the HGFPL Pre-season Tournament provided our one and only opportunity to find our form. An early start took us to Welwyn Garden City, in the shadow of the A1(M) and mere yards from the Roman baths discovered when the road was built.
Five teams had assembled for the U14 11 a side tournament; Bedwell Rangers, Bury Rangers, Hampstead, Watford Ladies and ourselves. The first phase was to play each other, with the most successful two teams, playing off a final.
The red clad Bedwell Rangers provided our first opposition and though the 20 minute game zipped by without a goal, it wasn't for want of trying and our goalkeeper was entirely unemployed save for two goal-kicks.
Our second match was an entirely different affair, the talented Bury Rangers matching us attack for attack until one, then two opportunities were taken by their strikers to give them a 2-0 win.
Hampstead were up next, a number of Americans in their team from the international school suggesting a good pedigree. They put up a good show and had a couple of sharp forwards to tease our defence, but a goal from Inka finally broke the blue's tournament duck and bagged the points 1-0.
Our last game was against Watford, with a good win likely to secure a final berth. Stortford confidence was growing from the Hampstead win and with Scarlett and Inka paired in midfield, the girls took control of the game. The pair also picked up the two goals that were enough for victory and a place in the final.
Bury Rangers awaited us, no doubt confident after their earlier victory. With Scarlett sidelined after an injury in the Watford game, the girls needed to dig deep. They duly did with terrific performances across the park. Tremendous defence kept Bury at bay, Tyler catching the eye with another one on one defensive job that stifled their pacey striker. On our front foot we looked dangerous against an at times tentative defence and when Inka found the net with six minutes to go Stortford set about defending their lead. A couple of terrifically important saves from Skye continued to keep an increasingly desperate Bury off the scoresheet and at the final whistle, blue cheers celebrated another tournament victory.
An extremely useful day then that saw Hannah make her debut for the team, the whole squad blow away some cobwebs and Bishop's Stortford's Under 14 Girls team carry off another trophy.

Squad: Skye, Emily (c), Tyler, Simi, Louise, Scarlett, Inka, Abigail, Ellie-Mae, Abby, Elly, Faye, Tia, Hannah
Results: 0-0 draw v Bedwell Rangers, 2-0 loss v Bury Rangers, 1-0 win v Hampstead (Inka) , 2-0 win v Watford Ladies (Scarlett, Inka) - FINAL 1-0 win v Bury Rangers

New season, new league....

With August fast approaching and pre-season training about to start it's time to start thinking about football again! In the break I have been attending league meetings and getting all player registrations ready for the new season. As you know, we are moving to the Herts Girls Football Partnership League and will be playing 11 a side this season. We are also being joined in the HGFPL by Roger and his Under 16 team as well as a new age group team at Under 11. The Under 12s and Fenton's Under 15 team will be staying in the Cambridge League and George's Under 17 team are joining the Essex League. As you know there is also a new Ladies team, which is joining the Beds and Herts League, so quite a change round.
The HGFPL has its own league website which can be found here......
There is also a new Full-Time site to follow, where all our matches and results will be listed. You can find this here....
The teams haven't been added yet, so don't worry that you can't see us there yet. There are 8 teams entered into our league. Here is the full list.....
Bedwell Rangers Scorpions
Bishops Stortford
Bury Rangers Reds
Garston Ladies Mets
Letchworth Garden City Eagles
Watford Ladies Harts
Hampstead
Kempston

This will mean less league games than we played last season, but there will be League Cup games and County Cup games as well. I'm sure we will be able to fit in some friendlies as well.

As you know we have a new Facebook page and it has been great to see you all commenting and posting on there. I've been really impressed with the amount of training everyone has been doing on their own and know that it will give us a real head start for the season.

That's all for now. See you at the first pre-season training session next Tuesday 2nd August, 6.45pm at Freidberg Avenue.

Summary of a season

In May two seasons ago, at the end of our Under 11 season when we had achieved a memorable treble of league, league cup and Cambridge Women’s Festival champions, I thought it unlikely that we would be so successful again. That this season we have surpassed those achievements is a testament to the skill, hard work, natural ability and team work of the girls and something to be immensely proud of.
It has become inevitable in our league to measure our season against our closest rivals Cambridge City and after a strong start in the Autumn we faced them in early October in our first clash. Having taken the lead with a penalty early in the first half, a strong come back from Cambridge saw them come out 2-1 victors, putting them in prime position and making the return fixture in effect a league title decider. That return game in February will live long in my memory and re-enforced the team’s undiminished belief in its ability to perform at an exceptional standard when it really mattered. Inside the first fifteen minutes the game was virtually won – wave after wave of attacks pummelled Cambridge into submission and by half-time the girls were 5-1 up. The inevitable City comeback came in the second half but fantastic goalkeeping and defending limited them to only two goals, sealing a 5-3 victory of great significance. All seemed to be set for post-season play-off match but completely against the form book, our new best friends at Histon scored a last minute winner against Cambridge at the beginning of April, leaving the path to the title wide open for Stortford if they won their remaining games. This was duly achieved and a third successive league title secured.
The County Cup was our first taste of 11 a side action and after two comfortable victories in the early rounds we faced Garston Ladies in the semi-final who had beaten us comfortably the previous season. This game is categorised as ‘the one that got away’ as after a strong start we took the lead only for Garston to draw level before the break. With the strong wind at our backs for the second period, all looked set for a push to victory but our well organised opponents stifled our attacks and as we pursued the win, picked us off to run-out 4-2 winners. Garston won the final comfortably - next season it will be different.
The League Cup was an equally exciting affair. Again, two comfortable early round victories set-up a decisive semi-final against Cambridge City and another victory was secured with great professionalism. Though we didn’t hit the heights of our previous encounter, two goals to the good we closed out the game, setting up a final against Newmarket Town. The 1-0 win in that final is great testament to our opponents who set their stall out to break up our passing football and worked valiantly throughout. Inka’s penalty however was decisive as was the volume of support received on the day.
Just prior to the end of the season the squad went on tour to the bright lights of Bognor Regis for a weekend of fun and football. ‘We went to have fun and came away winners’ was Tyler’s succinct summary on a terrific weekend that saw the birth of the ‘spoon army’, a tour court that punished everyone and some exceptional football against the finest teams from Essex, Hertfordshire and elsewhere. Unbeaten again, we came home with the biggest trophy I’ve ever seen and friendships deeper than before.
My thanks go to the players, parents, supporters and referees who have helped us throughout and made the season the best we have ever had. On to the ACES National Tournament in July and then the new challenge of the HGFPL next season.

Data loading....click here for U13 League

FULL-TIME Home

Squad: Skye Wilkinson (GK), Emily Tranter (C), Tyler Hyde, Louise Crocker, Simi Sunda, Abigail Stevens, Scarlett Archer, Elli-Mae Garrett, Elly Roberts, Faye Gallaway, Abby Springham, Inka Pearson, Tia Dye

What the papers say....

Under 13 Girls v Newmarket Town - League Cup Final 14.5.11

The penultimate game of the Under 13 Girls' season was a visit to Milton Road, home of Cambridge City FC and hosts of the Cambridgeshire League Cup finals. The Blues faced Newmarket Town who currently lie third in the league, a very creditable position in their first season. That they hold that position with a goal difference of -5 compared to Cambridge and our 120+ tells the story that they make it difficult for opposition teams to score but don't score too many themselves and so it proved, despite our previous 7-1 and 6-0 victories over them this season.

The 'Spoon Army' in full voice

With highly vocal support for both sides the game opened quietly, Newmarket having early possession that Stortford absorbed, before starting to find a rhythm and picking out Ellie-Mae for an early run and cross down the right. Attacks followed with regularity from that point on, the blues looking comfortable in defence with Emily, Tyler and Simi all in sharp form, Scarlett and Inka controlling the midfield, Abigail finding plenty of space wide on the left, Ellie-Mae on the right and Tia running some great lines with quick pace up front.

Newmarket were up for the challenge though and gave their all in defending and breaking up play. Corners came frequently and the Stortford girls went close from many, great heading from Scarlett in particular grazing the cross-bar more than once. Ten or so minutes in what turned out to be the decisive moment in the game came, when Inka rose to meet a long ball forward from Emily. Just inside the area, she took a shove as she rose and the referee immediately blew for a penalty, much to this disappointment of some of the Newmarket support. Inka took responsibility and planted the ball firmly into the bottom left hand corner with an immaculate finish. 1-0 to the blues.

After a series of lung busting runs on the right throughout the first 15 minutes, Ellie-Mae retired for rest and recuperation, Faye taking her position on the wing with the tenacity of a terrier. Chances came and went for Stortford's front five but the Newmarket defence or their brave and in-form keeper denied further goals for the rest of the half and as it turned out, the rest of the match.

Scarlett unleashes a shot that is pushed just round the post

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first, most of the play in the Newmarket half. Ellie-Mae returned to the right flank, Elly replacing Abigail for a period on the left later on. Stortford couldn't quite finding the killer final ball or finish, the yellow shirted Newmarket getting a foot in to break up the play, or attempts passing by the posts or cross-bar. That the second goal didn't come made for an exciting game right to the end and the 'well oiled machine' as Newmarket's previous match reports have described us, moved towards securing victory with few scares, save one short period where Skye couldn't grasp a high ball and took a moment or two to clear.

At the finish though, the right team had come away victorious despite Newmarket's best efforts and after match celebrations ran late into the afternoon, briefly at the Green Man(!) and then more extensively at the Red Lion in Hinxton. 

The girls and I were so appreciative of the support they received today, both in terms of volume and number. It was a real honour to run out in front of so many family members, friends and club coaches, to see banners draped in the stands and to hear the chants and cheers for their every move. Another box was ticked in this remarkable season and we can now look forward to its climax next week back at home  at Freidberg Avenue.

Result: won 1-0

Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Abigail, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Tia

Subs: Faye, Elly

Scorers: Inka

Easter & Spring Festival of Football, Bognor Regis 2011

Data loading....click here for Under-13's Girls 7-A-Side

FULL-TIME Home

"We went to have fun and came home with a win" was Tyler's summary of the weekend and I couldn't put it better. Our merry band of 32 descended on Butlin's in Bognor Regis on Royal Wedding Day and three days later returned home tired, happy and with a rather large trophy. Along the way we saw and played our old friends from Bury Rangers in Hertford, made new friends in LTD Wildkats from Thurrock and closed out the tournament victory with a consummate display against Leigh Ramblers, undefeated Essex League champions who counted a sprinkling of ex-Millwall Academy players in their number.

The weekend also saw the creation of the 'Spoon Army' with their special salute and the further bonding of our wonderful players and supporters into an extended family, with the weekend climaxing on the Sunday night with our own team presentation, tour court and then the razzle-dazzle spectacular of the Tournament presentation in the company of England’s Sue Smith and Huerelho Gomes from Spurs.

Very special thanks to Jane and Michelle for helping to organise the tour, to Tracey, Karl and Mike for executing the tour court and to everyone for making it such a terrific weekend.

Tour Squad (with scorers in brackets): Skye Wilkinson, Emily Tranter, Tyler Hyde, Louise Crocker, Simi Sunda(1), Abigail Stevens, Scarlett Archer(3), Elly Roberts, Abby Springham, Faye Galloway(1), Inka Pearson(2) and Tia Dye(6).

Under 13 Girls v Burwell Tigers (away) - League 23.4.11

The Burwell Recreation Ground was almost deserted as the Stortford girls started to arrive, hot sun and no other games going on giving a suggestion that we were in the wrong place or perhaps, the wrong season. The feeling was further compounded as mini-soccer goals were assembled on a smaller pitch, causing a few questions amongst girls and parents, but the girls were encouraged to play to the conditions, the game commenced.
The early minutes were negotiated with the team passing well and looking to reset their range finders to the smaller target, Ellie-Mae as threatening as ever on the wing. On another day she would have had a hat-trick almost in the first 10 minutes such were her the ferocity of her strikes, but today they crept passed post and upright with regularity. Inka had an early run and shot and Abby was having fun on her wing, play encouraged wide to make space to get close to the goal. Inka profited on five minutes, picking up the ball in the last third and then sliding it home from close range to put the blues in front. 
Abby had another run on the right, neat ball control getting her in position to cross, Abigail picking it up and shooting narrowly wide. This good play was immediately followed by the second goal, Scarlett's slide rule pass picking out Inka's run, the finish as good as the pass.

The game was being played almost exclusively in the Burwell half, Stortford's back line of three sitting on the half way line, always ready to intercept trouble or provide a pass option to the midfield. Simi intercepted well, then Louise and Ellie-Mae combined neatly to produce a chance for Scarlett that slipped wide of the under-sized goal. Poor Scarlett had two further unsuccessful attempts in quick succession as she sought to hone her shooting on to the target. Help and encouragement rang out from the touchline - "it's the big white thing!" - a smile was enough of a reply for now, the full riposte followed in the second half. Time for some changes, Tia on for Inka, Abby and Ellie-Mae switching wings, then a mid-half lull in the proceedings as Burwell had a major shift round in personnel. The blues got back into the swing quickly, dominating the midfield, creating a couple of chances for Abby and Abigail, then earning further corners, Simi going close from one. Louise was called upon defensively and completed her task, Skye tidying up behind. The resulting play produced another goal, Skye's huge kick descending on a defender. Tia closed in quickly and slipped the ball deftly by the advancing keeper for the team's third. 

They were in full flow now, Ellie-Mae slaloming through the defence, Scarlett surging forward, sharp passes producing regular opportunities. Abigail just failed to turn home a cross from Scarlett, Ellie putting Tia in who shot wide, the pressure on the Burwell goal was constant. Inka replaced Scarlett in central midfield and watched as Ellie-Mae had a goal disallowed. Abigail had a left foot shot saved from Inka's neat pass as the control continued, demonstrated beautifully just before the break. A second corner in quick succession from Ellie-Mae picked out Louise deep in space who passed on to Inka. Head up, she played the ball through to Tia who just beat the goalkeeper to the ball and sent it home for a comfortable 4-0 half-time lead.
Changes for the second period saw Ellie-Mae take a rest, Louise pull on the gloves and Skye take up station on the left flank.

The game's pattern continued, Abigail putting in an early cross that failed to get a touch, Scarlett powering just over the bar and a Burwell attack stopped before it got anywhere by Emily. A pass out to Skye kept the ball moving, her pass finding Abigail whose shot was saved for a corner. Skye sent the ball in and Inka met it powerfully with a strong header that grazed the cross-bar. The front two were working beautifully in partnership, feeding each other with short passes and making runs into space. At their back was the ever-sharp Scarlett, always closing down the ball and then spreading play. She put past misses out of her mind 6 minutes into the half, picking up a goal kick and weaving through the pink shirts to plant the ball in the net. 5-0 to the visitors.

With the home team tiring, Bishop's Stortford turned on the style, Inka trying a lob shot over the keeper that just sailed wide. The combination play was a joy to see, the ball moving from side to side, back and forth, Emily orchestrating things well. The next significant move saw the captain pick out Skye on the left who carried, then pulled the ball back to Scarlett who struck low, hard and handsome through the crowded box for her second. Tia completed her hat-trick a minute later, slipping through the middle and slotting home, before a change a made at centre-back, Ellie-Mae replacing Emily at the heart of the defence. Scarlett hit the cross bar a moment later, but wasn't to be denied her own third, winning the ball with a header then controlling and running in, planting the ball firmly home for the team's eighth goal of the game.

The deluge continued, Tia trying a cheeky back heel then Inka striking a shot that was deflected out for a corner. Inka was more fortunate a couple of minutes later, securing a third goal for herself when she streaked through the defensive line and finished with great aplomb. Another change of Stortford goalkeeper saw Emily take on the gloves and had to be careful she didn't bang her head on the low cross-bar. Skye had a run and shot, defended for a corner and Abigail put a strike just over the bar as the team sought a double figure score. Louise on for Abby now up front, Burwell hanging on, desperate in defence, but they couldn't prevent another score, this time Scarlett putting Inka through, her finishing as hot as ever as she picked up her fourth goal of the match to make it 10-0. Corner after corner followed in the closing minutes, Ellie-Mae and Skye sending in dangerous balls. Louise and Tia passed neatly in the heart of the defence, both having attempts saved on the line and the game finished as it started, Ellie-Mae just skimming the cross-bar as the final whistle rang out across the peaceful playing fields.

With all the team in sharp form we are in great shape for the final season run-in and the pleasant distraction of the Butlin's Bognor tournament next weekend. Many thanks to Guy for the photos. A link to the full set will follow shortly.

Result: won 0-10

Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Louise, Abby, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Abigail

Subs: Tia

Scorers: Inka (4), Tia (3), Scarlett (3)

Under 13 Girls v Priory Parkside (home) - League 16.4.11

After extensive pre-match litter picking, nets were up and corner flags in - the pitch was ready for our 19th league game of the season and the arrival of Priory Parkside. The girls kicked off up the hill on the hard Freidberg Avenue surface and it was quickly apparent that the energetic pressing by Priory combined with the difficulty of getting the ball down and under control on the bouncy surface were going to make for a different sort of challenge. 
The early minutes were all Stortford. Ellie-Mae took up station on the right and caused an early gasp from the visiting supporters when she received a pass from Abigail and streaked up the line, planting a thundering strike just over the bar from a typically tight angle. The blues continued to press, Inka shot wide and Faye and Abigail worked a nice 1-2, the attempt again going wide of the post.
Skye and Emily cleared up a couple of Priory attempts - an early substitution required whilst Inka recovered from a knock to the face, with Abby taking her position up-front, Faye and Ellie-Mae switching flanks as the blues sought a goal.
Ellie-Mae put in a lovely cross that evaded a connection and had further long range efforts as the pressure was piled on, Tia herself going close with a run and shot from distance that went over the bar and Simi set up another attack after dispossessing a Priory attacker.
Two thirds of the first half gone and no girl - the touchline was getting jumpy, two changes to mix things up, Inka back on for Faye, Simi replaced by Tyler who was almost immediately called into action, shadowing a pacey Priory break and restricting the striker's shooting options, Skye coping admirably when the shot came. Tyler was also involved in the goal that broke the deadlock, her throw-in picking out Abby, who passed on to Tia. She slipped into the box and pulled the ball across to Inka who picked her spot and billowed the net, 1-0 to the blues.
An extra spring in the home team's step now and Emily surged forward from the back. She and Tyler combined well then released Ellie-Mae again on another run that earned a corner. More pressure, another corner but Bishop's Stortford couldn't find another goal before the break.
Simi and Faye came back on for Louise and Abby when the game recommenced, Stortford now attacking the bottom end. Priory Parkside managed an early shot over the bar, Abigail replying with a looping shot saved by the keeper. The pattern repeated, Priory shooting high then Abigail across the goal with no connection. Inka went wide, Parkside stifled by Emily - back and forth the game flowed. A string of chances now for Stortford, good play putting Ellie in on a run that produced a corner. Emily shot wide and Tia fired on the run, well saved by their goalkeeper. A corner from Ellie-Mae produced another chance for Abigail that went wide, Tyler called to defend well a moment later, before Inka sent a long range shot just off target. Ellie-Mae and Faye off now for the returning Abby and Louise on either wing. Bishop's Stortford applied the turn-screw again and after some excellent build up work Abigail produced a fine and powerful strike from outside the penalty area high into the goal. Another entry added to her season's tally, Abigail retired now, Ellie-Mae again into the attack and quickly launching run range efforts at the Priory goal. Tyler and Abby worked some nice interplay, as did Ellie-Mae and Inka with further attempts rising over the bar.
Priory made a late rally, eager to take something from the game but Tyler then Emily and Skye worked hard to maintain another clean sheet, all called to action and not found wanting. In the closing minutes Faye had a shot saved and Inka again threatened the cross bar, before jinking across the front of the box and picking her spot to bring the scoring to a close, the final whistle calling the end to the game. 
'Only' three goals, but plenty of attempts in another convincing performance that extended Bishop's Stortford's lead at the top of the table to three clear points.

Result: won 3-0

Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Louise, Faye, Abigail, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Tia

Subs: Tyler, Abby

Scorers: Inka (2), Abigail

Under 13 Girls v Brandon Lasses (away) - Friendly 10.4.11

Never one to not rise to a challenge, when the call came 10 days ago with the offer of a friendly against Brandon Lasses, recently crowned Suffolk FA League champions I just couldn't resist. Ellie-Mae, Emily and Louise were missing but with Megan kindly offering to join us for the trip and the quality across our squad I knew we would be there or there abouts against what I expected to be good opposition.

Brandon Lasses didn't disappoint. A lovely big pitch, a half-time changing room filled with jelly babies and jaffa cakes and well coached, high quality footballing opposition gave the blues something to get their teeth into.

Both teams opened brightly, making good use of the space available for passing. Brandon were first to threaten, and early showing from their pacey striker, but Skye and the defensive line of Simi, Megan and Tyler were equal to the challenge. Stortford were making their own openings too. Inka managed an early strike whilst Scarlett, Abigail and Simi orchestrated a nice move to make their way through the Brandon midfield. 15 minutes in and Abby came on for Faye, each side feeling the early pace yet still eager to create chances, which came for both sides. Elly on for Tia now. Scarlett put Inka in for another attempt, blocked away by the defence and Abigail picked the keeper instead of the net after another nice Stortford move - the chances had been there to take the lead but it was Brandon who took the advantage, a nice build up and passing allowing a clean shot from the edge of the area. An immediate riposte almost came when Scarlett sliced the defence with a ball that put Inka through, but the finish again found the strong Brandon keeper who saved well. All the Stortford team were working hard, Abby putting in hard yards on the right to support Simi in defence and support the attacking play, Scarlett down the middle, dropping to help Megan then picking out Inka and Elly, Tyler reading the attacks and combining well with Abigail on the left.

Jelly babies and Jaffa cakes consumed in the cool of the changing room, the girls returned to the field in high spirits, unphased by being a goal down and full of optimism for the second half. Abigail took up station in the centre of defence, allowing Megan to have a run out on the left, while Tia returned for Inka. Skye had an early save to make but that aside, the opening minutes of the second half were all Stortford. Tia was showing great strength, skill and passion up front and fought incredibly hard to roll her defender and get a shot on target, but it was Megan who found the net, stripping her defender and shooting powerfully into the bottom corner with a fine left foot finish - her second of the weekend. Abby again was working hard against her opposite numbering harrying her in possession. Tyler made an important tackle too and Skye pushed a high shot over the bar - Stortford tails were up and everyone was working hard for the cause. Inka returned now for Elly, in time to see Tia give further evidence of the team's desire as she streaked through to run down a ball sent into the corner. Stortford were benefiting from big performances in the middle of the park, Scarlett and Megan meeting each challenge with strong, no quarter given tackling, high balls dealt with unflinching headers. The team's determination and good work were justly rewarded now, Tia pouncing and finishing, the arch-finisher with over 30 goals to her name this season. 

Faye came back on for Abby who had worked her socks off, just in time to take a ball to the face, which she shook off with the shake of her head. A couple of changes set up a change of keeper, Elly on for Abigail and then Abigail for Skye, just in time to make two important saves and show that we are blessed with good goalkeeping coverage when the need arises. Megan had another shot on target before Skye took up position on the left wing, Megan dropping in behind her, Tyler taking an early rest before the finish. The closing minutes saw strong clearances, good concentratioin and further hard work from Faye that produced a shot on goal and some hard tackling in defence. One final interchange between Tia, Elly and Faye earned a corner which Inka sent in without further success, but at the final whistle both sides shook hands with great respect for each other after a super game of football.

Another scalp for the girls in what has gradually become a season of great vintage.

Many thanks to everyone for giving up another morning of their precious weekends for a football match, to Amar for taking down the match notes and a very big thank-you to Megan (and Paula who did the driving!) for turning out for us. Hopefully a goal and the sandwiches afterwards made it an especially worthwhile trip!

Result: won 1-2

Team: Skye, Simi, Megan, Tyler, Abigail, Scarlett, Faye, Inka (c), Tia

Subs: Abby, Elly

Scorers: Megan, Tia 

Under 13 Girls v POSH Girls (away) - League 9.4.11

'4-1 win, no drama!' was the text message sent out to those not with us on the way home on Saturday which pretty much summed up an extremely professional performance from all the girls. POSH are a fine footballing side, with girls who possess individual skill and an understanding of how to play together. It is to the team's credit then that they coped with them so comfortably, quickly putting to bed any thoughts that the Peterborough Girls might have had of a repeat of the tense game last December. That they did it with even greater skill and team-work than the home team is a great tribute to our girls.
Bishop's Stortford's opening was as bright as the warm April sunshine that bathed the pitch, Ellie-Mae planting a shot powerfully into the side-netting after she was found wide on the right and ran menacingly goal-wards. It was the team's other wide player however who found the net first today, good build up play releasing Abigail who finished with her usual clinical touch.
Peterborough made their first steps forward now, but good defensive work on our left flank from Abigail, Simi and Emily shepherded the ball behind for a corner that was dealt with comfortably.
A series of four throw-ins marched the bibbed blues down the wing before Ellie-Mae was released on  the right, her run well defended behind for a corner. Ellie-Mae took the kick and sent a beautifully weighted ball into the goalmouth where Scarlett awaited, her forehead sending the ball into the net for a two-nil lead. Another lovely move followed, Scarlett heading out to Ellie-Mae who carried and crossed to Inka who fought hard to get a shot in - well saved by the keeper. POSH brought Emily and Skye into action, a through ball passed back for a long clearance, but a nicely built build up and sharp passing presented the home team with a finishing opportunity shortly afterwards which they duly took. 2-1 to the visitors. More good passing football and a fine combination with Tia put Inka in for a shot narrowly wide, whilst at the other end Tyler covered her captain put in a fine challenge to deny POSH a shooting opportunity. First substitutions were now made, Faye on for Inka, Abby for Ellie-Mae and Stortford pushed for another score. Scarlett was working like a trojan in the middle, coming back to help the defence and pushing the team forward with her neat turns and passing. She earned a corner, served in by Emily and got a head to it which the goalkeeper parried out. Scarlett picked up the ball and had another go, again well saved by the keeper. Tenacious work by Faye harried to get the ball back and once won, it was back into the danger area, Tia on hand to loop the ball over the keeper and into the net. 3-1 now to Bishop's Stortford. Tia now made way for a returning Ellie-Mae who took up station on the left this time, Abigail now joining Faye up front. An immediate impact again from the pacey winger with a threatening run that earned another corner. No joy from that and a break from the goalkick, well defended by Simi who continued to shine whenever the ball was at her feet, working in good partnership with Emily inside and her winger in front. Another attacking move, Stortford with the bit firmly between their teeth. Emily passed neatly to Abby, then Abby and Scarlett combining well to set up a cross. It was Ellie-Mae though who picked up the team's fourth goal, another run on the wing and venomous strike from distance that the keeper let through her grasp. 4-1 at the half-time break.
An altogether quiter second half, though good football from both sides. Emily and Abigail took a break, Tia and Inka returning. Tia was quickly harrassing the Peterborough defence at every opportunity and Stortford were again making their opportunities with fine passing football, moving the ball about to create space and retain possession, all confident in each other's ability to look after the ball. Abby had a shot saved, Skye denied POSH, Scarlett a strike from long range, Simi defending for a corner. Tit for tat stuff in this entertaining game of football. Skye was again called into action and another of her booming clearances caused problems for the opposition. Back and forth the game continued, further saves required, great defending and more chances for all and sundry. No goals though and two super teams shook hands at the final whistle, respectful of each other's skill. Our girls though never really looked in great difficulty, such is their team work and talent and another good performance can be notched up on this year's scorecard. A bonus on our return home too - Cambridge's postponed game against Huntingdon meant we went to the top of the league table on goal difference with a game in hand.
Another game to look forward to tomorrow as we pitch ourselves against the best of Suffolk before we return to league actio

Oh yes, and a jelly baby prize to the first that works out what this week's photo is all about and why I used it (and it's nothing to do with science, Faye!).

Result: won 1-4

Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Abigail, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Tia

Subs: Faye, Abby

Scorers: Abigail, Tia, Ellie-Mae, Scarlett

Under 13 Girls v Newmarket Town (home) - League 2.4.11

 Newmarket Town visited Freidberg Avenue for the first game of April this season and the girls opened in a style that spared no prisoners. Abgail was the first to get a shot away, going close after a nice build up. Next up Emily released Ellie-Mae on the right who forced a corner from her opening run. She delivered the corner beautifully onto Tia's head whose attempt was just an inch or two high. Another ball forward from Emily was blocked with an arm, leaving Emily to open the scoring with a deftly chipped free kick that took range into account, placing it just above the keepers head.
The great form continued, Inka finding Tia with a terrific pass that put Tia through, earning a corner. Ellie-Mae again delivered, but this time Tia headed home to make it two nil to the Blues.
Good defensive work was keeping Newmarket at bay, long balls dealt with comfortably by Skye who scampered out to make booming clearances, or Simi, Tyler or Emily holding their ground or crunching in with tackles.
Time to rotate the playing personnel, Inka and Ellie-Mae making way for Abby and Louise. Simi had a shot saved and Scarlett and Louise quickly getting into a nice passing rhythm, Louise running a lovely overlap that earned Stortford a corner. This was scrambled away for a throw-in which nearly produced a goal for Abby, her looping shot hitting the cross bar.
Ellie-Mae came on for Emily and was soon watching Scarlett making a silky run through the Newmarket team, only to see her shot rise just over the bar. Tia had a shot that followed the same trajectory before turnging provider just before half-time when great passing football eventually saw her find Abigail who smashed home with great composure. 
Half-time changes - Faye, Elly and Inka on for Tia, Louise and Scarlett.
Newmarket were stifled in an early passage of play by Tyler, who then released Faye. Her run took her into the box where a nice pass gave Abigail a chance that went wide. Faye continued her good play with a lovely cross into the box that could only be fumbled behind, though no joy from the corner for the Blues. Louise on for Tyler now who looped a lovely ball into the box a couple of minutes later that was headed away. She was again in the action, breaking up a Newmarket attack, though Skye was called into action to repell another chance a little later. A change of central defender now, Ellie-Mae retiring for Emily to return and the fourth goal greeted the change, Abby breaking away with a great solo run and finish through the keepers legs. 
Another great passing move followed five minutes later, this time Tia finding Inka with the final pass who stroked the ball home for the team's fifth. The last change before the end came when Ellie-Mae replaced Simi who had had another excellent game, before Scarlett capped off another terrific performance in centre-midfield with a stunning strike from 12 yards that flew high into the net for the last goal, again on the back of great passing football. 
A six nil win with 6 different scorers is impressive at any time and with the U13s meeting Newmarket Town again this season in the league cup final on 14th May, a psychological marker has been put down.

Another great job girls - on to the next.

Result: won 6-0

Team: Skye, Simi, Emily (c), Tyler, Abigail, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Inka, Tia

Subs: Faye, Louise, Abby, Elly

Scorers: Emily, Tia, Abigail, Abby, Inka, Scarlett

Under 13 Girls v Huntingdon Rowdies (away) - League 26.3.11

The wide open spaces of Huntingdon Town FC's Jubilee Park ground, home of the Rowdies had a chill wind blowing across it as the girls kicked off, visiting supporters outnumbering the home team fans on the touchline. The large pitch gave both teams plenty of space to play their football and it was the home team, clad in green and white hoops that made the first attack of significance, earning themselves a corner. However Bishop's Stortford soon took control of the game and scored their first goal after 4 minutes, Emily's free kick falling to Scarlett, her shot deflecting to Abigail who smashed the ball home. Tia nearly added a second after she intercepted a goal kick but could only earn a corner. Good defending from Louise followed as she shadowed away danger when Huntingdon broke from defence and could only shoot wide.
Ellie-Mae was finding her stride on the right and skinned another opposition defender, the latest in a long line this season, before seeing her cross well saved. Scarlett continued the bombardment of the Huntingdon goal with another shot, but the second goal came quickly afterwards, Stortford moving the ball across their backline before threading the ball forward and through to Tia. The league's leading goal-scorer burst through, holding off the strong attentions of defenders and picked her spot to beat the keeper low and in the corner. Inka was brought into rare action between the posts from a Huntingdon free kick, saving comfortably. Ellie-Mae had made another run down the right a couple of minutes later, this time her shot going narrowly wide. Skye on the other flank put a strong shot on target, the goalkeeper's fumble nearly snaffled by the arriving Tia in rampart form.
Fifteen minutes in and Faye came on for Abigail up front and the blues high tempo continued. Third time lucky for Ellie-Mae, this time her run and shot beat the keeper at the near post with a shot from a tight angle to take the score to 3-0. A change of goalkeepers now, Inka retreating to warm-up on the touchline whilst Abigail took the gloves. Two more attacks down the right, Ellie-Mae again and then a great run and cross from Tia, before two more changes, Tia and Tyler retiring to make ways for Inka and Simi. The blues tried their luck down the left now, Skye shooting at first from long range and then putting in a good cross following a pass into space from Scarlett. As the time ticked on to half-time, play remained in the Rowdies half, corners on the left and right from Ellie-Mae and Skye raining in on the box. Just before the break Skye sent another corner in which was blocked and returned to her. Her shot again was blocked but fell to Inka whose deflected shot was finally knocked home (with her left foot) by the sharp reacting Faye. 4-0 at the break.
Changes for the start of the second period - Skye headed south to the theatre and was replaced by Elly on the left, Louise taking over from Abigail in goal and Tyler returning to the defensive line. Huntingdon's resistance was struggling to keep Stortford's attacks away from their box, EllieMae having a cross saved by the keeper, Inka a shot saved and Faye robbing a defender only for her shot to be saved - the Rowdies keeper was doing her team proud. Another cross from Ellie-Mae was met by Inka's glancing header that just passed the post, further chances either saved or slipping past the target. The blues were in a fine rhythm now, Elly combining beautifully with Faye on the left in one move, Scarlett and Ellie-Mae in another. As usual, the successful forward play relied heavily on the solidity and passing of the defence and midfield, Simi playing a blinder throughout the second half, winning tackles, losing her marker and setting up attacks, Tyler solid in support of Ellie-Mae on the right, Emily controlling the centre and Scarlett linking everything together. Word of four-legged bonuses for hat-tricks finally reached the manager's ear, news of which had Ellie-Mae pulling on a goalie shirt to relieve Louise in goal. The second half deadlock was finally broken not by the puppy-pursuer, but when Emily picked up the ball and strode forward into space from her half and then slipped the ball on to Inka who found the net to make it 5-0 to the visitors. The breach was now broken and two more goals came in the next five minutes. A solo effort from Inka, skipping through and finishing sweetly brought up the team's sixth. The seventh brought hope of hound heaven when Louise received a pass from Abigail, spun and found the net. Alas no more chances fell to Louise, but team play was terrific as the game headed to its close, full of guile, vision and quality. Time just enough for Inka to cap off a fine move with a good shot that brought up her hat-trick before the ref called an end to proceedings. Stortford had another fine win in the bag and took a breather on the touchline, little knowing that heroics from Histon a few miles away across the county was opening the league title race wide open with a win against Cambridge.
Six league games, a south coast tour and a cup final await in the exciting last weeks of the season and the team remains in fantastic form. Next week a home fixture against our cup final rivals provides the challenge. Another great job girls - on to the next.

Result: won 0-8

Team: Inka, Louise, Emily (c), Tyler, Skye, Scarlett, Ellie-Mae, Abigail, Tia

Subs: Faye, Simi, Elly

Scorers: Abigail, Tia, Ellie-Mae, Faye, Inka (3), Louise