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News and
Match Reports 09-10
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07-03-10
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Billericay Town 0
- 1
After a week of superb weather it was a treat
to find the Crofters End pitch in pristine condition for
this game against Billericay Town. Our first attempt to get
this game played resulted in Billericay arriving at Crofters
just after the heavens had opened and the pitch resembled a
swimming pool. So today neither side could complain about
the playing surface.
Sawbo had to use their entire squad numbers
for today’s game as a total of 13 players were unavailable
for the game including 5 first team regulars who were off
skiing in France. The holiday being booked when on paper our
season would have been finished. The other 8 players
unavailable for various reasons.
Sawbo started the game brightly and soon had
the Billericay defence in trouble as Hayley Graham won the
ball on the right and after setting herself played a
delightful, ball over the Billericay defence into the path
of Victoria Silvester who ran on towards goal. Her shot
unfortunately went straight to Hollie Dimambro in the
Billericay goal and the clear chance was gone to open the
scoring in Sawbo’s favour in just the second minute of the
game. Anne Hutchinson had to be replaced after just 18
minutes as she could not breathe. Her head cold was the
reason for this and she was replaced by new signing Natalie
Bayne. Billericay were finding it difficult to adapt to the
Sawbo team setup and although they had their attacking
chances the Sawbo defensive line held firm throughout.
Neither goalkeeper was really tested during the first 35
minutes although Sawbo’s keeper Samantha Lowes did push a
ball around the post as a safety measure when the ball
looked as if it was going wide anyway. Just before the break
Sawbo attacked again and some good interplay between Wendy
Rankin and Silvester saw the ball eventually get to
Silvester on the edge of the 6 yard box and her left foot
shot beat the keeper but it struck the post and rebounded
to safety. Billericay not to be outdone by this attacked
down their left and a left foot chip from Hayley Spallin
form just outside the box clipped the top of the cross bar
and out for a goal kick.
Sawbo’s first half performance had surprised
some but the overall determination of the side was showing
through and they started the second half with the same
attitude as they finished the first. 51 minutes gone and
Billericay had won a corner on the left, the first attempt
to get the ball into the danger area was defended well and
the ball went back out to Lisa Silverton who fired the ball
back towards goal. Lowes was behind the ball as it came in
but the spin on the ball took it through her grasp and
across the goal line. Kerry Oldham was free about a yard
from goal with a Sawbo player just a yard from her but did
not react quick enough to stop a gentle touch of the ball
over the line to open the scoring in Billericay’s favour.
Not to be out done Sawbo came straight back at their
visitors and the game entered the midfield contest where
both sides were cancelling each other out. On 65 minutes
Lowes was forced to make a superb diving save to her left to
again push the ball to safety. Again Sawbo responded and
with 15 minutes left to play saw Rankin take a more
attacking position and her deft chip over the defensive
wall fell again to Silvester who tried to chip the advancing
keeper from the edge of the penalty box but the effort just
missed the target .
With so many players unavailable today for
Sawbo the instant reaction was to worry about the possible
result with some 3 players collectively less than 10 games
played all year . But the efforts shown and the
determination to not let the team down was a credit to all
who pulled on the Red and Black shirt.
Squad form: S.Lowes, N.Clifford, J.Day,
K.Crump, K.Eyre, H.Graham, L.Westcott, W.Rankin, H.King,
A.Hutchinson, V.Silvester
Sub used: N.Bayne (Hutchinson 18)
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23-02-10
At last night league meeting
there were decisions made that meant a change to the league
table. (awarded games have now been revoked as information
has been received in the time frame required) So our table
has now been updated to show these decisions. You will also
see that many of our outstanding games have also been given
dates and these have been updated on our fixture page with
also the most recent games being displayed on the index or
home page of this site.
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21-02-10
Arlesey Town
v Sawbridgeworth Town P - P
Like most of the region Our game
today was called off due to a water logged pitch.
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14-02-10
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Brentwood Town 2
- 3
An almost perfect playing
surface greeted the teams at Crofters End that would see an
outstanding game of football that was put before everyone on
this Sunday afternoon.
Sawbo started the game slightly
pensive and it was all Brentwood needed to get onto the
front foot. After 3 minutes a tame effort by Kerri Thomas
was easily saved by Samantha Lowes in the Sawbo goal. Sawbo
then had to endure a midfield battle that at this time
Brentwood were just winning but there were early signs that
Sawbo were not going to lay down as chances created were
squandered with just Dominique Hume in the Brentwood goal to
beat. Eight minutes gone and the first goal of the game went
to the visitors. Brentwood's player of the match Carla Rose
clipped a ball to the right flank where Thomas latched onto
it and drove the ball into the far corner. Brentwood
continued to press but were stopped by stalwart defending of
Hannah Fraser and Ann Anstey and behind them Lowes who was
called upon to sweep the area behind the central defensive
pair. With some twenty minutes gone Sawbo launched their
best attack of the half which saw Jackie Day beat
Brentwood's off side line and with just Hume to beat she
fired her shot straight at the keeper, Hume could only parry
the shot into the path of Rebecca Maybury who chose to side
foot the ball back to goal rather than striking through the
ball and the ball drifted calmly back to Hume who gathered
the ball with ease. Some 5 minutes later Day had broken
through again and this time opted for a slide rule pass to
the onrushing Wendy Rankin at the far post but she played
the ball wide of the upright with the goal begging. Sawbo
were now more of a threat to Brentwood and the midfield
contest became more intense. Just before half time Brentwood
earned themselves a corner, as the ball drifted to the far
post it was cleared by the defence only to see the ball ricochet
off the backside of Referee Steve Gleeson and back into the
danger area where it was then dispatched goalward and into
the net by Kerry Mills. The first half showed a score line
of 0 - 2 to the visitors but Sawbo felt that was a false
score line when open chances had been made but not
converted. Still with 45 minutes left to play it was still
possible to get back into the game.
The home side were definitely in
a stronger frame of mind at the start of the second half
as it was evident that everyone was upping their game. 7
minutes in and Sawbo were back in the game when Day again
beat the off side line and this time fired in from the edge
of the box with a rising shot that Hume could not get near.
More pressure form the home side but still the final
targeting was off the mark. Try as they might Sawbo were
still getting the chances but failing to convert by either
being off target or sending the final pass direct to the
keeper. With some 16 minutes left to play Brentwood were
attacking the Sawbo goal when one of those tackles happen
that was a fraction of a second late when Anne Hutchinson
brought down Lucy Faraday a yard inside the box from which
Hutchinson got her first caution of the season. Sophie
Lovell converted the penalty to regain the 2 goal advantage.
Anstey was replaced by Kerry Crump around this time and
Sawbo still continued to try and get back into the game. 80
minutes gone a corner for Sawbo, the ball was driven into
the box and Joanne Gregory stooped to head the ball across
goal and into the net to make it 2 - 3. The final 10 minutes
saw the Sawbo players exert extreme effort in their attempt
to at least get a point from a game that in the end would
have merited at least a draw but time ran out and Brentwood
maintained their top spot in the division.
Squad from: S.Lowes, N.Clifford,
A.Anstey, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott,
A.Hutchinson, J.Day, W.Rankin.
Sub used: K.Crump (A.Anstey 70)
Subs not used: H.King,
V.Silvester |
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07-02-10
Hoddesdon Owls
v Sawbridgeworth Town 1 - 2
The short trip to Hertford Town FC the home of Hoddesdon
Owls was greeted with a game being played on the already
heavy pitch. This obviously did not bode well for the Ladies
game that was to be played directly after. This was to be
the first league game for Sawbo in 2010. The only other game
was the defeat by Watford in the Herts County Cup back on
the 3rd January 2010.
Sawbo were given a blow right before the start of the game
when Left back Jo Gregory had to be replaced by Kerry Crump
as she was feeling ill with stomach ache and a feeling of
wanting to be sick.
The Owls were quicker off the mark than their visitors and
although half chances were being created Samantha Lowes in
the Sawbo goal was not troubled. Sawbo rallied and started
to contest the game better. Hoddesdon earned themselves a
corner on 8 minutes on Sawbo’s left and the ball was driven
into the box. This initial effort was defended well and the
ball was played back out of the box but was picked up again
by the Owls and directly played back into the edge of the
box where Danielle Martucci controlled the ball with her
back to goal, turned and shot in one movement and the ball
flew into the top corner with Lowes rooted to the spot. It
was evident from this point that Sawbo were jolted into a
higher gear as they were closing down quicker and trying to
get the ball and player movement quicker but the playing
surface was becoming a major factor as the ball would not
run with accuracy. Rebecca Maybury celebrating her birthday
on the day seemed to be everywhere and her midfield
partnership with Jacqueline Stott is now an established
pairing in the centre of the park. It seemed that an over
zealous assistant referee was going to stop our attacks at
every chance as time and again the flag was raised to stop
us in our tracks.
Sawbo began the second half with more determination and
drive and were soon putting Hoddesdon on the back foot. The
off side flag was still being raised at regular intervals
but a drive into the Owls right defensive area by Stott saw
her edge her way past the defender on the bye line and into
the penalty box where she managed to drive the ball into the
net from a very acute angle for the equaliser on 57 minutes.
Within three minutes Sawbo had their noses in front when
Hayley Graham attacked down the Sawbo left and crossed from
the bye line across the face of goal where Wendy Rankin
appeared and had the easiest of jobs to side foot the ball
into the net from 2 yards. Changes were then made around the
hour mark to the playing staff as Laura Westcott replaced
Nicky Clifford, Anne Hutchinson replaced Hayley King and it
was a seamless change. The game became very open now as
Sawbo were looking to extend their lead and the Owls were
looking to try and get back into the game. 70 minutes gone
and Victoria Silvester replaced the hard working Rankin (as
she had to go off to work) for a rare outfield outing.
Overall it was a sound performance when considering that
Hannah Fraser stepped off a plane from a week in Jamaica at
9.00am on Sunday, Kerry Crump was playing only her second
full game of the season, Hayley King also started the game
which was only her third start of the season.
Squad From: S.Lowes, N.Clifford, A.Anstey, H.Fraser,
K.Crump, H.King, R.Maybury, J.Stott, H.Graham, J.Day,
W.Rankin.
Subs used: L.Westcott (N.Clifford 62), A.Hutchinson (H.King
64), V.Silvester (W.Rankin 70)
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31-01-10
Once again the weather has
played havoc not only with our fixtures but also the
regions. Our game against Billericay Town fell foul to the
cold weather at 11.00am today so we again await the Regional
fixture secretary to reschedule. As soon as new dates are
given I will upload the site. There is a slight change to
our fixtures for next week in as much as we will be away to
Hoddesdon Owls and not Leighton Linslade as previously
stated. This is because Leighton Linslade have a rescheduled
County Cup game to play next week.
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24-01-10
Watford Reserves
v Sawbridgeworth Town 3 - 0 (Herts
County Cup Quarter Final)
After five weeks without a game and with Christmas
sandwiched between the last game played on December 13th
2009 and today today’s game was seen as just a starting
block for the rest of the season. To start the new year with
such a difficult game was to be a test of the squad and how
far we have come since the start of the season with the
result a secondary requirement to the first being
application to playing football again after such a long
layoff.
Watford set their stall out from the first whistle, chasing
every ball, closing down every player and not giving Sawbo
any time on the ball to settle. Almost a constant barrage
of attacking football was being exerted on the Sawbo
defensive line but they held firm. 10 minutes gone and
Watford earned their first corner of the game. Sawbo
defended the corner well and cleared the ball out of the
danger area. The next 15 minutes saw much the same as the
first ten but there were signs that Sawbo were not going to
lie down and be beaten. Wendy Rankin was able to lose her
marker on one occasion and her shot unfortunately went
straight at the keeper. 25 minutes gone and with the Sawbo
team now having a bit more of the ball in the Watford
defensive third saw a forward move break down and Watford
immediately counter attacked which saw a slide rule pass
dissect the Sawbo back line and the forward was onto it like
a flash and she dispatched the ball into the far corner for
the opening goal. Watford’s movement on and off the ball was
the difference between the two sides and although Sawbo were
able to match a percentage of this they could not contain
it. Sawbo held firm until the 40 minute when they failed to
clear the ball from the edge of the box. Hannah Fraser as
well as Kerry Crump had attempts to get the ball away to
safety but it rebounder or ricocheted back in to the danger
area where it was eventually driven into the top of the net
for Watford to go 2-0 ahead. Almost straight from the
restart Sawbo found Jackie Day in an advanced position who
fed the ball to Wendy Rankin on the edge of the box, rather
than take the shot her self she laid the ball into the path
of the supporting Laura Pepper who connected well but sent
the shot straight at the keeper on 42 minutes.
With an early substitution seeing Anne Hutchinson being
replaced by Jackie Day after just 31 minutes of the first
half the half time interval allowed the team to refocus
themselves to the task in hand and from the restart the team
seemed to be more focused. Sometimes a change of thought
pattern to an attacking attitude is the best form of defence
and the Sawbo team were trying to do this. So much so that
after 55 minutes Sawbo were beginning to win a few more
balls in the centre of the park which began to ruffle the
Watford players. On the hour mark Sawbo had to have a team
reshuffle as Joanne Gregory had to be replaced so Laura
Pepper went from left midfield to left back, Hayley Graham
transferred from right to left midfield and Hayley King came
on at right midfield. Soon after Rebecca Maybury who had
started the game with the after effects of a head cold was
replaced by Laura Westcott on 68 minutes. With these changes
Sawbo did not stop their new found attacking attitude but
continued to try and get a goal back. Jackie Day was sent
through almost one on one but she chose to shoot from the
edge of the box as she was being closed by a defender and
her shot did not test the keeper enough as it was saved at
the near post. With time running out and Sawbo pushed up
Watford split the Sawbo defence with a ball over the top so
that the forward came one on one with Samantha Lowes in the
Sawbo goal. Lowes advanced to the edge of the box but could
only get fingertips to the ball as it was chipped over her
and into the empty net for Watford’s third. Overall a solid
performance from the Sawbridgeworth Town team which saw
Kerry Crump complete her first full game of the season with
flying colours as well as Hayley King who at last seems to
have lost her nerves and played the time she was on the
pitch with authority. Samantha Lowes performance between the
posts was also a plus for Sawbo.
Squad from: S.Lowes, K.Crump, H.Fraser, A.Anstey, J.Gregory,
H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott, L.Pepper, A.Hutchinson,
W.Rankin.
Subs Used: J.Day
(Hutchinson 31), H.King (J.Gregory 60) L.Westcott (R.Maybury
68)
Sub Not Used:
V.Silvester .
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15-01-10
We have been informed this
morning that the pitch at 'Sun Postal FC' where we were due
to play our County Cup game against Watford Reserves is
still under several inches of snow, so it has meant that the
game has been called off for this weekend. As it was a
County Cup fixture it means we will now not be able to play
a game on a Sunday until this game is played so our next
weeks fixture against Hoddesdon Owls has been cancelled due
to this scenario. At least we were able to do some outside
training on Wednesday and in general I think everyone that
turned up enjoyed the venture into training on snow,
lets hope that the thaw continues so that we can start
playing again.
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10-01-10
Once again we have had a
complete week of postponed matches across the region. Next
weekend weather permitting we may be playing our County Cup
match, I will inform everyone once the pitch confirmations
come through this week
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03-01-10
I have had confirmation of
fixture dates for our outstanding games which have now been
updated on the fixture list as well as the player stats
pages.
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20-12-09
With the Region at a standstill
this weekend because of the snow it seems that this year
will fizzle out without a bang. All I can say is lets look
to be better for next year and really look towards a
committed set of performances to see us up at the top of the
table come the end of the season. You know as well as I know
that you are more than capable. Have a great Christmas and a
very prosperous new year. With our first game scheduled for
the 3rd January 2010 being a home game against AFC Kempston
Rovers we have got to be on our top form so as to secure a
result and to start the new year off with a positive result.
Enough said.
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13-12-09
Whitwell
v Sawbridgeworth Town 1 - 2
Having not played a game since
the 15th November Sawbo were desperate to play
this game against Whitwell. An early call from the home side
saying that a men’s County Cup game had been put on the
pitch for a morning KO which after the current weather was
to put a rough surface on the pitch for the women’s game. At
least the game went ahead and both sides mastered the rough
surface well.
With Whitwell reduced to just 10
players for the game after Jade Beaumont broke down in the
pre-match warm up and could not start. An end to end start
to the game saw the first real goal scoring chance fall to
the visitors when Jacqueline Stott crossed the ball from the
right into the six yard box where Wendy Rankin connected
sweetly but managed to fire over the cross bar with the goal
at her mercy. The game settled into an ebb and flow pattern
with neither side taking control. Whitwell to their credit
with a player down were at times the better side and were
penetrating into the Sawbo defensive third almost at will.
Sawbow suffered an injury blow when left midfielder Laura
Pepper was replaced after 20 minutes as she sustained a late
tackle which left her ankle sore and swollen. Joanne Gregory
took to the field to replace Pepper and a slight reshuffle
saw Hannah Fraser go to left midfield and Gregory resumed
her usual left defensive slot. On the half hour the hard
working Whitwell forward line forced a corner on the Sawbo
right. The ball was floated into the Sawbo box and with
several players able to just put their foot through the ball
it evaded them all which left Fiona Harris free to strike
the ball past the static Vicky Silvester and the group of
Sawbo players who were between the ball and the goal to see
the net ripple as the ball hit the back of the net for the
opening goal to Whitwell. Sawbo finished the half trying to
up their lackluster first half performance but the half
ended with the ten men of Whitwell deservedly at this time
one goal to the good.
Sawbo were brought back to life
after a frank half time discussion where the main topic was
to compete for the ball at every opportunity and try to make
the opposition chase for the ball so that they tire and then
space would be created. Sawbo certainly came out for the
second period with a better demeanour and were passing the
ball better and keeping possession more, and from this
change Wendy Rankin put her first half miss aside when she
struck the ball sweetly on the hour mark with her left foot
into the top right corner of the net for the equaliser after
some good work which finished down the Sawbo right when
Haley Graham found Rankin who side stepped her marker to
move inside before shooting for goal. The goal certainly
lifted Sawbo and they began to play with a bit more
confidence, Anne Hutchinson had a slight knock to her hip
area and was replaced by Hannah Mead on the 65 minute. With
some 15 minutes left to play one of the better sections of
play saw Fraser play the ball to Rebecca Maybury who
quickly laid the ball to Mead who almost with her first
touch of the ball found Hayley Graham on the right who came
inside the defender to slot the ball inside the post to put
Sawbo 2 – 1 ahead. Considering Whitwell had played the
entire game with just 10 players they were not going to sit
back and accept the current score line as they almost
attacked straight from the restart and managed a shot from
just inside the edge of the penalty box to the right of the
Sawbo goal which saw Silvester diving to her right to push
the ball around the post for a corner. The game finished
with a win for Sawbo but a lesson that every game must be
played with 100% commitment. Whitwell had this in abundance
but it took Sawbo almost an hour to find theirs.
Squad from: V.Silvester,
N.Clifford, J.Day, A.Anstey, H.Fraser, H.Graham, R.Maybury,
J.Stott, L.Pepper, A.Hutchinson, W.Rankin.
Subs used: J.Gregory (Pepper 20),
H.Mead (Hutchinson 65)
Sub not used: K.Crump.
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06-12-09
Billericay Town
v Sawbridgeworth Town P - P
(Waterlogged Pitch)
Once again the weather has taken
charge of the games to be played this weekend across the
Region. Only one league game went ahead and that saw a 12-0
victory for Arlesey Town over Leighton Linslade who could
only field 8 players for the game. With this weeks postponed
game it now brings our postponed games tally to six. So even
if we continue from the end of the published season taken
into account that we will have to postpone the game against
Arlesey Town on 17th January due to our involvement in the
Herts County Cup we will have seven games to play which
without any more postponements take us to the middle of
March before we end the season. Can someone start praying
for some dry weather. Also we have not encountered any frost
or snow yet.
Could we still be playing at the
end of April!!!!
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22-11-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Billericay Town P
- P (Waterlogged Pitch)
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15-11-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Watford Development Squad
4 - 2 (Herts County Cup 2nd Round)
The prelude to this game saw a lot of rain fall and in our
minds was a possibility that this game would eventually fall
foul to the weather and the game would have to be
rescheduled. The pitch at Crofters is usually the first to
go when there is rain about but for this weekend not only
did the Men’s reserves have their game on Saturday but the
ground was pristine for the Women’s game on the Sunday.
The young Watford side that came to play were soon out of
the blocks and their youthful enthusiasm pushed them
forward. Sawbo stuck to their task with a starting 11 that
had several fringe players starting a game for the first
time this season and it took a while to settle these
players. The game was lit up when a clearance from Hannah
Fraser in the centre of the Sawbo defence hit the shoulder
of Kerry Crump as she was pushing away from her defensive
area and the rebounded ball looped over Samantha Lowes in
the Sawbo goal and into the path of Watford’s Samantha Dowd
who slotted the ball into and empty net after just 6
minutes. Sawbo drew level when after 10 minutes Hayley King
was fed the ball to the right of centre in the Watford
defensive third and she laid the ball to Anne Hutchinson who
managed to side step her defender to give herself a yard of
space to hit the top right corner of the net from just
inside the left edge of the penalty area. 20 minutes into
the game and Sawbo were beginning to win the midfield
battles and when Laura Westcott won the ball for Sawbo she
played the ball to Hutchinson who drifted into the penalty
box and again converted the chance to put Sawbo 2-1 up.
Kerry Crump who started her first game of the season today
was forced off after just 42 minutes as she was unable to
breathe. It was later understood to be an allergic reaction
to cats which affected her airways.
After the break Sawbo were expecting a rallying call from
Watford to try and up their game and this came but was not
consistent which enabled Sawbo to gain the midfield once
again. 55 minutes gone and Sawbo extended their lead when
Laura Pepper was found on the left flank and after beating
her marker shifted the ball inside to King who was able to
advance on goal and slot the ball past the keeper to regain
Sawbo’s 2 goal advantage. 64 minutes gone and Lowes was
replaced by Victoria Silvester between the stick for Sawbo
to give much needed match practice to her and she was tested
almost immediately when Watford played a long through ball
towards Helen Capewell who still had work to do to try and
get the ball under her control. Silvester came rushing out
to the edge of the box but was not quick enough to get
control and Capewell moved the ball to her left which
stranded Silvester and slotted the ball into the unguarded
net to reduce the arrears. Samantha Rigby replaced the hard
working Laura Pepper on 72 minutes. With time running out
Watford were pushing for an equaliser which saw most of the
team in an advanced position. When their attack broke down
Sawbo were quick to counter and with the ball moved quickly
down the right through Hutchinson who touched the ball to
Laura Westcott who laid the ball to Ann Anstey who had moved
clear on the Sawbo left. Anstey advanced to the edge of the
box and let fly with a superb shot which flew between the
keeper and the near post to regain the 2 goal advantage on
86 minutes.
Today was a worthwhile exercise to judge the overall
abilities of those players that have not seen regular
football this season for Sawbridgeworth Town WFC.
Squad:- S.Lowes, K.Crump, A.Anstey, H.Fraser, J.Gregory,
H.Graham, C.Brown, L.Westcott, L.Pepper, H.King,
A.Hutchinson
Subs Used:- N.Clifford (Crump 42), V.Silvester (Lowes 64),
S.Rigby (L.Pepper 72)
Sub not
Used:- J.Day.
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08-11-09
Cambridge
Women's v Sawbridgeworth Town
5 - 0 (FA Women's Cup 1st Round Proper)
Arriving at the ground slightly later than expected due to
traffic Sawbo were reduced to just a short 25 minute warm up
prior to the game when normally they have almost a full hour
to get themselves into the right frame of mind to play the
game. Although that said everyone seemed to be in an upbeat
mood and looking forward to the game ahead of them.
From the first whistle it was apparent that Cambridge were
looking at this game as a way of forgetting their current
league form and to get their selves back into a positive
attitude. Sawbo weathered the early pressure quite well and
slowly began to push the Cambridge team back into their
defensive half. The game entered a 60-40 split of possession
with Cambridge having the better of the exchanges but Sawbo
held firm. It was not until the 37 minute that a poor pass
out of Sawbo’s defence was picked up by the Cambridge right
winger who played the ball into the middle of the park to
the Cambridge forward who turned and shot to the far post.
Samantha Lowes in the Sawbo goal made a valiant attempt to
get to the ball but it crept inside the post. Sawbo adopted
a slightly more defensive posture at this point which
enticed Cambridge to attack more which put the visitors
under further pressure and with the Sawbo forward passes not
reaching their target players it was back on the defensive
again. The first half ended with Sawbo still very much in
the game but they had to get the next goal to keep their
hopes of further FA Cup involvement alive.
The second half saw a slight improvement of the Sawbo
passing and movement and the honours were even for the first
15-20 minutes of the half. Sawbo made their first
substitution of the game on 64 minutes when Anne Hutchinson
replaced Hannah Mead to try and give a different approach up
front. Sawbo were then forced to make another substitution
when after clearing a goal bound shot Jacqueline Stott
sustained a head injury after a clash of heads and was
replaced by Ann Anstey on 69 minutes. With the game still
there to be won Sawbo were now trying to get their game
flowing and as a result the defensive unit was breached and
on 72 minutes Cambridge found themselves 2-0 up after a
superb diving one handed save by Lowes she could only parry
the ball towards goal. With no one near enough to clear the
ball away to safety it slowly rolled over the line just
inside the post. Sawbo made their final substitution of the
game when Laura Westcott replaced Nicky Clifford with 16
minutes remaining. A slight reshuffle of the back line moved
Hannah Fraser to the right back spot so that she could
assist in the attacking side with Haley Graham. This ploy
did not work as after pushing forward gaps appeared which
were not covered by remaining players and Cambridge netted
again. Two more goals were to be scored by the home side
before the final whistle and on the day Sawbo can be pleased
with their overall FA Cup exploits this season. At some
stage they were going to be beaten as the opposition would
have gradually got better. Today though we were beaten by
not only a side that plays their football two divisions
higher than us but also by our selves for not competing at
the level we know we can produce.
Squad: S.Lowes, N.Clifford, J.Day, H.Fraser, J.Gregory,
H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott, L.Pepper, H.Mead, W.Rankin
Subs Used:- A.Hutchinson (Mead 64), A.Anstey (Stott 69),
L.Westcott (Clifford 74)
Subs not used:- K.Crump, V.Silvester.
|
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01-11-09
Royston Town
v Sawbridgeworth Town 4 - 4 (league)
(joint report
from Jacqueline Stott and Dave Dawson)
With the game only being confirmed at 11.45am after a deluge
of rain had fallen on the Royston Town pitch during the
morning Vets game Sawbo travelled with a cautious view as to
how the pitch would be. On arriving it was soon apparent
that the early information was just a precaution as the
pitch was fine and quite a change to actually be able to see
the players have stud grip in the softer surface earth.
Sawbo were on a high following the win last week at
Braintree, but there was a slight change in personnel for
the line up for this game. A fast start by both sides saw
end to end action from the first whistle. 2 minutes in and
Wendy Rankin was released down the middle of the park and
she came one on one with Clare Draper in the Royston goal
who stood tall and worked Rankin to the side of the area
where Rankin was unable to capitalise on the early chance. 4
minutes gone and Jacqueline Stott won the ball on the edge
of the box and her shot was saved just under the cross bar
by Draper. Sawbo were put on the back foot as a dubious
penalty decision was given against Hannah Fraser on 10
minutes after she won the ball cleanly with a sliding tackle
on the edge of the box. The penalty saw Emma Chaffey send
keeper Sam Lowes the wrong way to put Sawbo 1-0 down. Shaken
by this Sawbo had little time to recover before conceding a
second, as again Chaffey converted after running through the
defence and sliding the ball past the keeper. In the chase
leading up to the goal Ann Anstey pulled up with a thigh
injury, Hannah Mead came off the bench and with that a
slight change of formation in the team. Sawbo had to make
their second substitution of the half with keeper Sam Lowes
being replaced by Vicki Silvester on 18 minutes due to a
finger injury picked up in the warm up. The second goal
seemed to hit home and from the kick off Sawbo decided to
fight back, a quick passing exchange between Hayley Graham
and Wendy Rankin saw the ball laid off into the path of
Stott who shot to put the Royston keeper under pressure. The
team continued to remain calm and kept the ball and their
heads. The forward movement of the visitors was enough to
make Royston concede a corner on 32 minutes, Stott delivered
the ball to Jo Gregory who had made a run from the far post
and the ball was laid back out wide to Stott where it was
delivered back into to the far post area and straight on to
the head of Rankin for Sawbo’s first putting them right back
in the game. With their tails up Sawbo continued to press
for the equalizer before the break but the efforts created
did not generate the goal that was sought.
The second half saw the battle commence again with Sawbo
determined to get themselves back in the game again. However
an early attack from Royston with a long ball over the top
and the resulting chase saw confusion between the two centre
backs Fraser and Jackie Day and keeper Silvester who came
off her line too far with Chaffey picking up the loose ball
and completing her hat trick sliding the ball into an open
goal. The response from the Robins was immediate with the
long ball from the kick off through to Graham who unleashed
a shot to put the score at 3-2. The Sawbo team continued to
push on and a passing interchange between Graham and Stott
saw Stott shoot from just outside the box beating the keeper
but not the crossbar. This seemed to spark Royston into life
again who’s pressure on the Sawbo defence saw Hannah Fraser
and Jo Gregory put an end to the quick Royston break. With
just 12 minutes left an attack down the Sawbo left saw
Gregory injured after a tackle and after some on pitch
treatment went off the pitch to receive added treatment,
whilst Gregory was receiving treatment on the side lines,
Sawbo again gained the momentum and continued to press with
some slick passing on the left hand side which saw Stott
switch the play into the path of Rebecca Maybury who then
found Graham who hit home
to put Sawbo level. With the score at 3-3 there was a belief
that the team could go on to win the match, however another
break against the run of play saw Royston again regain the
lead with a goal by Josie Cambridge in the 83rd
minute. The Robins who had shown plenty of character and
determination throughout the game still did not give up and
their work rate paid off as Maybury struck the ball
from outside the box to see the score at 4-4 with just
minutes to go. In the dying minutes Sawbo still continued to
press looking for the winner which almost came as Rankin danced around the defence only to see her shot
parried off the line by the keeper.
With the final score at 4-4 the Sawbo girls had done
themselves proud after a slow start and now look forward to
facing Cambridge Women's in the FA Cup 1st Round Proper next
weekend.
Squad: S.Lowes, N.Clifford, J.Day, H.Fraser, J.Gregory,
H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott, L.Pepper, A.Anstey, W.Rankin
Subs used:- H.Mead (Anstey 12), V.Silvester (Lowes 18),
A.Hutchinson (Mead 72)
Subs not used: K.Crump, L.Westcott
|
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25-10-09
Braintree Town v
Sawbridgeworth Town 0 - 3 (FA Women's Cup 3rd
Qualifying Round Sponsored by E-oN)
Sawbo came to this 3rd Round Qualifying game as
underdogs as they play in a division below Braintree Town
and also after last season having been beaten three times by
the Irons 3-0, 3-0, and 1-0 it meant that to get anything
from the game the Sawbo squad would have to have a superior
work ethic than their hosts over the entire duration of the
game. With the weather set fair and with a slight breeze the
pieces were set for a hopefully entertaining game.
Braintree started the brighter and were soon putting several
passes together which had the Sawbo players chasing and
harrying their opponents in an attempt win the ball and get
their own game going. 5 minutes in and the first free kick
of the game was awarded to Braintree just outside the box.
Ann Anstey was adjudged to have fouled the Braintree forward
when it was the Braintree forward that crossed in front of
Anstey and the inevitable touching of feet happened. The
resultant free kick was sent over the cross bar for a goal
kick to Sawbo. 8 minutes gone and Sawbo were beginning to
win the battles in midfield and when Jackie Day won the ball
on the edge of the defensive third she advanced through two
tackles before laying the ball to Laura Pepper who got to
the edge of the box before she laid the ball to Hannah Mead
but she was closed down quickly and her shot went wide of
the upright. Sawbo had weathered the early pressure from the
home side and were now contesting everything in the middle
third which made Braintree uneasy and their passing became
erratic. Sawbo won the ball on the left and played into
Jacqueline Stott’s path on the left and she crossed the ball
towards the far post, 6ft plus Hannah Streetley in the
Braintree goal was unable to make good contact with the ball
and it fell at the far post where Hayley Graham was on hand
to stab the ball home from 3 yards to give Sawbo the early
goal they had hoped for. Braintree tried to hit straight
back but a resilient back line stopped them in their tracks
and although they had shots on goal they were not all on
target with Samantha Lowes in the Sawbo goal not really
tested. Sawbo were beginning to again control the midfield
and with Pepper and Mead working the Braintree back four and
Graham working well down the right flank Braintree could not
settle. On another drive forward Pepper was unlucky to see
the big keeper closing her down as she shot for goal with
Streetley this time pushing the ball around the post for a
corner on 20 minutes. 15 minutes later it was 2-0 to the
visitors when Mead was found with a straight ball down the
middle of the park, Mead’s shot was well saved by Streetley
but the ball ricocheted up in the air and Pepper was first
to respond and with almost an overhead kick lobbed the ball
back towards goal over up stretched hands of Streetley and
into the unguarded net on 35 minutes. The final 5 minutes of
the half saw a slight revival from the home side but
defensively Sawbo were more switched on to the situation and
kept the score at 2-0 until the break.
Sometimes the half time break is a downer for the team in
front as the momentum is stopped and then has to be picked
up again. Braintree were again the first team to get going
and they had upped their game considerably as for the first
ten minutes of the half had Sawbo back on their heels
defending in numbers and sometimes just clearing lines to
ease the pressure by getting the ball as far up field as
possible. With no goal coming Braintree again seemed to run
out of ideas and again Sawbo began to claw themselves back
into the game and started to put pressure on Braintree. This
half was more of a midfield contest and it was the visitors
who were winning most of the battles. Sawbo replaced an over
worked Laura Westcott on 65 minutes with new signing
Caroline Brown to keep up the momentum that had been
generated. With another attack being formed in the middle of
the park Mead was set free and with some great one touch
play between Mead and Pepper the ball finally fell to Pepper
who got the final touch to the ball and it was in the net
for her second and Sawbo’s third on 76 minutes. It seemed
that this third goal suddenly sparked Braintree into life as
they started to play with the desire that had been expected
of them from the first whistle. With two superb shots by
Braintree and two equally superb saves to push the ball onto
the crossbar and away for a corner during this last 10
minutes showed what could have been if Braintree had had the
confidence to play this way from the first whistle. Sawbo
now progress to the First Round Proper of the Competition
where they have been drawn against South East Combination
side Cambridge Women’s on Sunday November 8th
2009.
Squad: S.Lowes, N.Clifford, J.Day, A.Anstey, J.Gregory,
H.Graham, J.Stott, R.Maybury, L.Westcott, H.Mead, L.Pepper
Sub used:- C.Brown (Westcott 65),
Subs not used:- K.Crump, H.King, V.Silvester.
(Match
photo's on photo page)
This was the
independent view of the Women's Soccer Scene reporter who
was at the game:-
|
Sawbow march into First Round
|
Women's
Football News 26 Oct 2009
Sawbridgeworth
Town defied the Eastern Region League tables to take their
place in the First Round of the F.A. Women's Cup for the
first time in their history by beating Braintree Town 3-0 on
their own Cressing Road pitch.
The visitors, from Division One South, deserved their win
over their Premier Division hosts with an outstanding team
display in which they absorbed a lot of pressure but always
threatened on the break.
Sawbridgeworth scored twice in the first half and a crucial
third with twenty minutes left. Braintree stepped up their
game late in the second half and went very close to pulling
a goal back in the last fifteen minutes with numerous shots
and crosses but the visitors defence and keeper stood firm
to the end.
Although Braintree went close early on with a dipping free
kick, it was Sawbridgeworth who took the lead on thirteen
minutes when Hayley Graham turned in a poor clearance from a
corner. Playing an impressive brand of passing football, the
visitors were denied by a fine Hannah Streetley save from
Laura Pepper.
Back came Braintree, having a goal disallowed for a foul on
visiting keeper Samantha Lowes, who later made a very brave
block to deny Paula Drane. Home forward Ella Tooley went
close as well but Sawbridgeworth broke away to double their
lead when Hannah Mead challenged Streetley to a through ball
which bounced goalwards to be tucked away by Pepper on 36
minutes.
Braintree continued to press forward but were contained by
the Sawbo back four to preserve a two-goal margin at half
time.
Braintree needed to impose themselves after the break and
nearly got back into the game when a low shot from the edge
of the area was well saved by Lowes at her near post.
The importance of this save was emphasised when Pepper
extended the lead twenty minutes from time with excellent
persistence, after her initial shot was blocked, to drive in
the third goal in from ten yards.
Braintree used all three substitutes in order to increase
their attacking options and laid siege to the visitors'
goal. Lynsey Bowman, on the Braintree left, had been
dangerous all game and she hit the underside of the bar on
82 minutes and shot just wide moments later. One goal back
could have heralded an epic recovery but it never came
despite all the hard work of the home forwards.
Sawbridgeworth had given a superb display. Their forwards
were excellent targets, mobile and tricky throughout, the
back four and keeper were brave and decisive but one player
stood out, Jacqueline Stott, who controlled the midfield
with excellent passing and tackling as well as set piece
delivery. Braintree worked very hard but rarely broke their
opponents down and will have to concentrate on building on
their four successive promotions and a good start in the
league.
Braintree Town: Hannah Streetley, Sindy Godbold,
Dani Croxford, Jodie Osbourne, Amy Evans, Linsey Warren,
Aimee Drane, Ella Tooley, Paula Drane, Zoe Rushen, Lynsey
Bowman. Subs: Georgia Copsey, Cathryn Lawley, Lucy
Stuchfield, Chloe Argent, Helena Golding.
Sawbridgeworth Town: Samantha Lowes, Nicky Clifford,
Jackie Day, Ann Anstey, Jacqueline Stott, Rebecca Maybury,
Joanne Gregory, Laura Pepper, Hayley Graham, Laura Westcott,
Hannah Mead. Subs: Kerry Crump, Hayley King, Caroline Brown,
Victoria Silvester.
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|
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22-10-09
Last night we completed the
signing of Caroline Brown who has been training with us for
the past couple of weeks. Caroline has just returned to the
area from Sheffield where she was at University. Her playing
career has seen her play at Tottenham Hotspur before
travelling north to University where she had spells with
Sheffield United as well as the Sheffield Hallum University
team. Caroline plays in that defensive midfield role that is
sometimes hard to get covered but has also had times at
playing in defensive and more advanced positions. Caroline
brings our registered group of players to 24 for this season
so I will be looking to see if I can get a 'reserve' game
set up in the near future so that the girls that are not
playing week in week out can get some football under their
belts.
|
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18-10-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Royston Town 1 -
1 (league)
With the squad now getting
almost to its full potential it was a difficult job to
select 16 from the 19 registered players to be part of
today's home game against Royston Town. With just 4 players
unavailable, Emma Yarrien (Uni), Beckie Gagg (Thigh), Toni
Gillman (unavailable) and Victoria Silvester (family) it is
getting more and more difficult to select a starting group
of players.
A glorious day for football with
the sun shining but the ground still with its summer
hardness. Sawbo were the quickest to start and had the ball
in the Royston final third almost from the first kick of the
ball. An early free kick awarded to Sawbo was floated into
the box were Laura Pepper headed the ball just wide of the
upright on the second minute. More pressure from the home
side but final attempts at goal did not materialize. Sawbo
were by the far the more assertive in these opening minutes
and it was to a degree a bit against the run of play that
Royston won the ball just inside the Sawbo defensive third.
Emma Chaffey finally got the ball about 10 yards in from the
Royston right touchline and curled a superb ball into
the top far corner to put the visitors one up on 22 minutes.
Joanne Gregory, Hannah Mead and Pepper were causing problems
for the Royston right side as they constantly tried to get
the ball into the danger areas. Final attempts at goal
though were not able to be of the same standard and although
shots were being made the attempts were just off target or
straight at the keeper. The first half finished with Royston
a goal to the good but on the balance of play it was still a
very even contest.
Sawbo were in determined mood
after the break and took the game to Royston at every
opportunity. Playing down the Crofters slope for this half
the momentum was certainly with the home side. Royston were
defending well but could not make any inroads into the Sawbo
defensive third with any conviction. When they did manage to
break through the Sawbo defensive line stood firm. Pepper
was replaced by Zoe Plant for the final 33 minutes and with
her slightly different direct approach made Royston change
their stance at the back to compensate. Anne Hutchinson then
replaced Wendy Rankin on 65 minutes who had to go off to
work and again a different style up front had Royston on
their heels. On 75 minutes Sawbo got the break though they
were pushing hard for. Mead was released deep down into the
Royston Left back area and after some good footwork found
Plant on the edge of the box. Plant had just one though in
her mind and it was to go for goal. She ran the ball into
the box and curled the ball inside the far post for a
deserved equaliser. The final 15 minutes were a frantic
affair with Sawbo battering the Royston defence looking for
the winner but time ran out and the spoils were even. Over
the 90 minutes Sawbo deserved a little more from the game
but they kept their winning run going. next weekend will see
Sawbridgeworth Town Women's FC in the 3rd Qualifying Round
of the FA Women's Cup away at Braintree Town. The
winners of this game will; be in the first round Proper of
the competition where the draw could take you almost
anywhere in the country.
Squad from: S.Lowes, N.Clifford,
J.Day, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott,
L.Pepper, W.Rankin, H.Mead
Subs used: Z.Plant (Pepper 58),
A.Hutchinson (Rankin 65)
Subs not used: K.Crump, H.King,
L.Westcott.
|
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11-10-09
We have been drawn AWAY against
Braintree Town in the 3rd Qualifying Round of the FA Women's
Cup 25-10-09. Braintree have also informed us that they will
be charging an entrance fee for spectators of £2.00 for
adults £1.00 for senior citizens. Under 16's free. The
players and management of the club will have complimentary
tickets supplied. |
|
11-10-09
Tring Athletic
v Sawbridgeworth Town 2 - 3 aet (FA
Women's Cup 2nd Round)
Sawbo travelled to Tring Athletic for this second round
Qualifying round of the FA Women’s cup with the weather set
fair. Tring had progressed to this second round after
beating Eastern Region Premier side Stevenage Borough so
this was not going to be an easy task. Late withdrawals to
the team saw Samantha Lowes (keeper) pull out with an ankle
injury and Hayley King on the morning of the game pulled out
after being ill during the night previous. So Sawbo
travelled with a squad of 14 players for the game.
Early pressure for the start of the game saw Sawbridgeworth
gain a corner on the right. A superbly flighted ball found
Wendy Rankin who met the ball with great timing but the
volley went over the cross bar on 2 minutes. Straight back
into the Sawbo defensive third and a cross from Tring’s left
found Trisha Richards who spun her marker and delivered the
ball to the right of the diving Vicky Silvester and just
inside the post for the opening goal on 4 minutes. Sawbo did
not panic and tried to get an instant reply with Hannah
Fraser winning the ball on the edge of the Sawbo penalty box
she run the ball out and played the ball down the line to
Toni Gillman who then found Rebecca Maybury who advanced on
goal and her shot went over the cross bar on 4 minutes. More
pressure from the visitors saw regular shots on the Tring
goal with Jacqueline Stott, Rankin, Gillman and Maybury all
just wide of the target. 20 minutes gone and Sawbo were on
the attack again with Stott on the Sawbo right. Her cross
beat the Tring defence and with Marieke Hughes in the Tring
goal also beaten by the direction of the cross Rankin run
blind side and touched the ball over the line from a yard
out to equalize. For the rest of the half Sawbo continually
pressed for another goal but the ball would just not go in
the right direction. Hannah Mead also got onto the end of a
forward pass on more than one occasion only to get the final
ball wrong as she attempted the shot on goal.
A half time break that warranted a calming chat which saw
the Sawbo team emerge from the dressing room with a bit more
fire in their play. It was not long before the attacks were
again being fashioned by the visitors as they looked for
another goal to set them up and we did not have to wait
long. From Sawbo’s 10th corner of the game Stott
floated the ball into the six yard box where Joanne Gregory
rose highest to head the ball just under the cross bar to
put Sawbridgeworth Town 2 – 1 up on 50 minutes. Laura Pepper
replaced Gillman on 60 minutes Mead was replaced
by Ann Anstey on 68 minutes as Anstey has a more defensive
attitude about her game, although Sawbo at this time were by
no means being defensive in their game. Sawbo were looking very comfortable
throughout this half now that they were a goal up and as the
half wore on you could tell that Tring had almost run
themselves into the ground but as in their last match when
they got the winner of the game with 2 minutes remaining
they started to once again lift their game for the last 10
minutes of normal time. Pumping long balls up to their front
two to put pressure on Jackie Day and Hannah Fraser who both
had cut out almost everything that Tring had put forward
were now being put under a little more pressure as the game
was about to end. Tring played a long ball towards the
corner of the Sawbo penalty box which had Fraser and Day
both running to cover it whilst at the same time Silvester
had come off her line to gather the ball as well. A bit of
confusion between the three saw Sally Green take advantage
and she just managed to get her toes to the ball and send it
towards goal. As if in slow motion the ball crept towards
goal and just managed to get over the line before a Sawbo
defender got there to try and hook it away on 84 minutes.
The referee found 6 extra minutes to play in the second
half, where from, no one knows but the game went to extra
time all the same.
Extra time will always show who the fittest team is and
Sawbo were well ahead on that score but needed another goal
to get their noses back in front again. 6 minutes into the
first half of extra time and Sawbo had won yet another
corner on the left. Stott fired the ball into the six yard
box at knee height and it ricocheted off a Tring defenders
knee and into the net for Sawbo to regain the lead. Sawbo
could and should have sewn the game up as a couple of one on
ones with the Tring keeper saw the ball go agonisingly wide
of the target. With extra time now running down the referee
still found another three minutes to add on but Sawbo
emerged as worthy winners on the day.
Squad from; V.Silvester, N.Clifford, J.Day, H.Fraser,
J.Gregory, H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott, T.Gillman, H.Mead,
W.Rankin
Subs used: L.Pepper (T.Gillman 60) A.Anstey (H.Mead 68)
Sub not used:- K.Crump.
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04-10-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Peterborough 1 -
3 (League cup 1st round)
With just the one league cup
competition this season this game became a winner takes all
and Sawbo were dealt a blow early on Sunday morning when
Wendy Rankin (club top scorer) phoned in to say she had a
tummy upset and would probably only make the second half. So
a quick reshuffle as also Hayley Graham (unavailable) Zoe
Plant (groin) Rebecca Gagg (thigh) Emma Yarrien (uni) Toni
Gillman (unavailable) and Kerry Crump (unavailable) The
squad was well below par considering we had to play a
Premier Division side.
An unusually bright sunny and
warm day greeted the players and we had a bright start to
the game as well. Within the first minute of the game Sawbo
won the ball on the left and Hannah Mead was fed the ball ,
she controlled the ball and beat her marker as she drove
into the box but her shot just evaded the far post with the
keeper well beaten. It was now Peterborough's time to attack
the Sawbo goal and they earned themselves the first corner
of the game on Sawbo's left. The ball was floated in and
Samantha Lowes was first to rise and punched the ball over
the bar for another corner to Boro this time on their left.
The ball was again floated in to the far post and Lesley-Ann
Seaman rose to head the ball home for Boro from 4 yards on 4
minutes. Sawbo continued this end to end encounter with an
attack down Sawbo's right which saw Laura Pepper closing
down the Boro defender and earning Sawbo a corner for her
persistence. on 12 minutes. The game now settled into a
midfield battle with no real chances being made by either
side. 36 minutes gone and it looked as if Sawbo may just get
the equalizer as Sawbo won the ball and quickly passed the
ball to Rebecca Maybury who found a yard of space and drove
the ball goal ward from 25 yards only to see the ball beat
the keeper but go just past the upright. Boro started to
exert a little more pressure as the half was coming towards
a close and when they won the ball in the middle of the
pitch they slid the ball through which saw Seaman make a run
which the Sawbo players called for offside but she was just
onside and her pace took her to a one on one with Lowes and
she slotted the ball past her and into the net for Boro to
go 2 goals upon 43 minutes. Right form the restart Sawbo
were back into the Boro penalty box with Mead winning the
ball and trying to bend the ball round the keeper the ball
went agonizingly past the far post on 44 minutes. With
seconds remaining of the half Sawbo won a throw on the right
and Jacqueline Stott took it and sent Pepper deep into the
right corner where her persistence took her past the
defender and she was able to drive the ball in towards the
near post. The Boro keeper seemed could not get hold of the
ball but could only fumble it to where Mead was on hand to
stab the ball home from 2 yards. Sawbo were back in the game
as the whistle blew for half time.
Sawbo started the better of the
two teams in this second period as they tried to push the
ball around a bit quicker and inroads were being made into
the Boro final third but no clear cut chances were being
made. On the hour Rankin replaced Pepper who had run her
self into the ground and Sawbo seemed to now look to hold
the ball up to bring players into play but Boro held firm.
65 minutes in and Sawbo replaced the hard working Anne
Hutchinson with Laura Westcott as Sawbo tried in vane to get
fresh legs into the team to try and get an upper hand but it
was not to be as Boro again found the perfect ball and run
by Jade Bell who slotted the ball past the advancing
Lowes to give Boro a 3-1 advantage going into the final 18
minutes. Sawbo continued to probe right up till the last
whistle, even adding Hayley King into the 11 replacing Mead
but the home side could not get the ball in enough
space to penetrate the Boro back line. Sawbo now have to
brush themselves down and get ready for next weeks FA
Women's Cup (sponsored by E-on) 2nd Qualifying round when
they travel to Tring Athletic.
Squad: S.Lowes, N.Clifford,
J.Day, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, A.Anstey, R.Maybury, J.Stott,
A.Hutchinson, L.Pepper, H.Mead
Subs used:- W.Rankin (Pepper
60), L.Westcott (Hutchinson 65) H.King (Mead 82)
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27-09-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Garston 2 - 1
(FA Women's Cup 1st Qualifying Round)
Sawbo came into this game with a
healthy 16 man squad which on the day saw everyone united in
the desire to play well and get a result. The day was set
fair with the sun shinning and each and every player was
aware that the heat of the day would be a factor late on as
the game progressed.
Early possession by the home
side created half chances within the first 10 minutes of the
game as Sawbo looked for an early breakthrough. Laura
Westcott who replaced Zoe Plant on the left who had to work
today took to the task well as did Hayley Graham who
constantly put the Garston left full back under pressure. On
17 minutes it looked as if Sawbo would get their noses in
front but it turned out to be a dress rehearsal for what was
to come as Hannah Mead clipped the ball across goal from the
corner of the penalty box only to see Graham just a yard
short of getting contact with the ball. 5 minutes later the
ball was in the back of the net when Graham timed her
forward move to perfection to get onto the cross from Mead
to put the home side at this point deservedly 1 goal up.
Garston were having trouble getting out of their half of the
pitch for any length of time such was the pressure that
Sawbo was applying. Garston did earn themselves a couple of
corners but these danger points were quickly controlled and
dealt with by a very efficient defensive back line and
supportive midfield. 36 minutes into the first half and the
best move of the game so far saw a four man move with an end
result. Jacqueline Stott won the ball in the centre of the
park and found Mead in an advanced position who then found
Graham wide on the right, advancing with the ball Graham
then played a pin point cross to the far post where Wendy
Rankin headed home the second goal of the game in
Sawbo's favour. Garston were not being allowed to produce at
this time any forward momentum and the half ended with Sawbo
well on top.
The half time break is sometimes
the worst thing to happen in a game as it disrupts the flow
that has been built up over the previous 45 minutes and
Sawbo seem to be a victim of this. Garston were quickly into
their stride from the restart and Sawbo were now being asked
a little more but they held firm. Garston for the first time
in the game seemed to be contesting the ball and this made
the Sawbo players begin to realize that the game was still
up for grabs as a two goal advantage could soon be eroded
away with any poor decisions that are made rashly. On the
hour mark Westcott was replaced by Anne Hutchinson as she
had run herself into the ground, Sawbo gave away a
free kick on the Garston left just outside the penalty box and the
resultant kick saw the ball clear the defensive wall but the
ball disappeared over the cross bar for a goal kick, but it
did show Garston's intent to be a bigger part of this game.
On 64 minutes Garston did get their name on the score sheet
when they pulled a goal back after good work by Victoria
Silvester in the Sawbo goal had parried the initial shot
wide of the post. The Garston forward was quicker to react
to the loose ball and fired home from 6 yards. At this point
Ann Anstey replaced the hard working Mead which allowed
Stott to go forward and Anstey to have the middle of the
park alongside Rebecca Maybury which did slow the Garston
attack down and allowed Sawbo to regain the middle ground.
The game played out with Garston still trying to get back
into the game and Sawbo defending well. Sawbo now look
forward to an away draw against Tring Athletic on 11th
October to see if they can progress further in this
competition.
Squad:- V.Silvester, N.Clifford,
J.Day, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, H.Graham, R.Maybury, J.Stott,
L.Westcott, W.Rankin, H.Mead
Suds used:- A.Hutchinson
(Westcott 60) A.Anstey (Mead 65)
Subs not used:- K.Crump,
T.Gillman, H.King
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20-09-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Leighton Linslade
5 - 3 (league)
With several players missing due
to holidays and injury, Sawbo had to dig deep into the squad
to get the numbers required for today's game. The weather
was kind to the spectators as it was brilliant sunshine but
extremely hot for the players. Sawbo without Nicky Clifford,
Jacqueline Stott, Jackie Day, Katie Eyre, Ann Hutchinson,
and Samantha Lowes all on holiday, Kerry Crump still with a
whiplash injury and Samantha Rigby working, the side had to
be re-shaped as such with Laura Pepper in at Central
defender, Jo Gregory moved to right back, Hayley Graham in
at right midfield, Laura Westcott in at centre midfield and
finally Hannah Mead again filling the centre forward role.
With Ann Anstey back from her Australian holiday and Rebecca
Gagg finally back on the available list along with Hayley
King the subs bench was at least full.
A frantic start saw the home
side take control from the first whistle and after just 3
minutes had won a corner on their left. Rebecca Maybury took
the corner short to Hayley Graham who one touched it back to
Maybury who fired the ball into the top corner of the net
for the opening goal. Two minutes later Leighton were down
the other end putting pressure on the Sawbo defence and
earned a corner of their own. The ball floated in and after
a couple of attempts to clear the ball Sawbo's Laura
Westcott had the final touch and the ball spun off the foot
into the the net for the equalizer on 5 minutes. The next 20
minutes saw the home side play some delightful football with
one and two touch football making inroads into the Leighton
defensive third. It was only desperate defending that
stopped Sawbo increasing the scoreline during this period.
Finally Sawbo found a way through when good approach play in
the middle third saw Wendy Rankin become supplier as she
slid the ball into the path of Hannah Mead who out paced her
marker and drove the ball under the keeper for her first
goal for the club and Sawbo's second on 27 minutes. At this
stage of the game Sawbo were rampant as every ball was being
won in the middle of the park by a tenacious Sawbo midfield
and wave after wave of attacks were pushing the Leighton
defence back onto the edge of their penalty box. Mead became
supplier on 32 minutes when she received the ball on the
left corner of the penalty box. She crossed the ball behind
the Leighton defensive three where Hayley Graham had timed
her run to perfection to nudge the ball home from three
yards for her first goal for Sawbridgeworth and today's 3rd
for Sawbo. Sawbo went further ahead when some great build up
play saw Rankin Jo Gregory, Graham, Maybury involved. The
ball eventually fell to Mead who side stepped her marker to
make space and drove the ball into the top corner for her
second and Sawbo's fourth on 35 minutes. Sawbo were
finishing the half in style with good football being played
all across the park and Leighton were finding it difficult
to put more than three passes together. Another corner won
on the right saw Maybury again fire the ball into the near
post where Rankin got her name on the score sheet with a
neat little flick inside the near post. A first half that
was a joy for all to watch as the football would have graced
the highest table in Women's football.
A jubilant Sawbo side emerged
for the second half with a belief that more goals would come
as from the first half performance Leighton were a spent
force. An obvious air of complacency had crept into the
Sawbo players and from the first whistle it showed that
Leighton had been fired up at the break and were a different
side. The visitors closed down quicker to prevent Sawbo's
passing game to get started which began to frustrate the
home side. Ten minutes into the second half Leighton had the
ball in the Sawbo six yard box and instead of keeper Vicky
Silvester claiming the ball she watched as the ball was put
past her from 6 yards by Nicky Tarrant. On the hour mark
Gregory was replaced by Anstey and 5 minutes later Zoe Plant
was replaced by Gagg for her first game since November 2008
after a thigh injury. King replaced the hard working Mead on
68 minutes. 76 minutes gone and it was deja vu as the ball
was bouncing around the Sawbo six yard box with Silvester
watching as the ball again found the back of the net with no
attempt to claim it. It was Tarrant again who nudged the
ball into the net. The last 15 or so minutes finally
saw the home side rally and the football again started to
flow Silvester made commanded her area during these last
minutes to redeem herself a little and it was not before
time as Leighton had almost mounted a superb comeback from
being dead and buried in the first half. The final whistle
blew and a slight sigh of relief was felt. Next week
Sawbridgeworth Town host the FA Women's 1st Qualifying round
against Garston from the London and South East Premier
Division. A 2.00pm kick off here at Sawbridgeworth Town FC.
Squad from: V.Silvester,
J.Gregory, H.Fraser, L.Pepper, E.Yarrien, H.Graham,
L.Westcott, R.Maybury, Z.Plant, H.Mead, W.Rankin.
Subs used:- A.Anstey (Gregory
60), R.Gagg (Plant 65), H.King (Mead 68)
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13-09-09
Sawbridgeworth Town
v Whitwell 2 - 0 (league)
Still on a high from last weeks
performance against AFC Kempston Rovers, Sawbo looked at
this game as a possible progression up the table. Although last
Thursdays result that saw Whitwell as winners against
Hoddesdon Owls who had beaten Sawbo in the first game of the
season did give the home side a slight cautious approach.
Whitwell had travelled from Baldock with just a bare 11
players but the home side once again had a full squad of 14
available players for the game.
A bright start from the home side
did not allow Whitwell any time on the ball and playing up
the slope for the first half Sawbo looked stronger in all
positions. Solid approach play across the park saw several
forward moves push Whitwell back on their heels and early
signs of a slight lack of confidence in the visiting back
line became apparent. Sawbo won the ball back in the middle
of the park and released Zoe Plant down the left, she drove
past her marker and delivered the ball into the middle of
the penalty box where Wendy Rankin had timed her run to
perfection and she slid the ball past Paula Blank in the
Whitwell goal for the opening goal on 7 minutes. Whitwell
now tried to raise their game and they began to push into
the edge of the Sawbo defensive third but time and again the
Sawbo back four were found to be more than capable of
extinguishing the flow and passing the ball back out to
safety. 20 minutes in and the game had settled down now to
a midfield contest with the visitors working hard to contain
the free flowing Sawbo midfield. It was not until the 30th
minute that a sheer poetic move saw defender and captain
Jackie Day pick the ball up just outside the Sawbo penalty
area. Pushing into the space in front of her she drove
forward beating attempts to win the ball from the Whitwell
defenders until she got to the edge of the Whitwell
defensive third where she played a superbly weighted ball to
Rankin who went one on one with the advancing Blank and
calmly drove the ball into the net for her and Sawbo’s
second of the game.
After the interval Whitwell were
a more focused side as they became more determined in their
defensive work and more attacking minded as they tried to
penetrate the Sawbo back line. Although at times under
pressure the Sawbo team looked controlled and able to
weather the pressure that Whitwell were trying to build.
Whitwell won several corners but Vicky Silvester in goal for
Sawbo stood tall and handled the ball with confidence. The
second half seemed to be more a case of Whitwell closing
down better and quicker than the first half and Sawbo being
content with being two goals to the good and not really
looking to be under any great pressure. This allowed Sawbo
to give a debut to new signing Laura Pepper who replaced
Emma Yarrien, Hayley Graham replaced Joanne Gregory and
Laura Westcott replaced the two goal hero Wendy Rankin all
around the 60 minute mark. Whitwell suffered an injury blow
on 70 minutes when one of their midfielders had to come off
with a twisted ankle and with no substitutes were down to 10
players for the rest of the game. With Hannah Mead putting
in a full 90 minute shift up front alongside Rankin and
Westcott another of this seasons new signings was able to
show more that the 8 minutes of the last game against AFC
Kempston Rovers. Overall it was a good squad performance
from the Sawbo women’s team. Next week another home game
looms against Leighton Linslade, another Bedford based side
who managed their first point of the season this weekend
with a draw against AFC Kempston Rovers.
Squad from: V.Silvester,
N.Clifford, J.Day, H.Fraser, E.Yarrien, J.Gregory,
R.Maybury, J.Stott, Z.Plant, H.Mead, W.Rankin.
Subs used:- L.Westcott (Rankin
60), L.Pepper (Yarrien 62), H.Graham (Gregory 65),
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06-09-09
AFC Kempston
Rovers
v Sawbridgeworth Town 0 - 3 (league)
Sawbo by their own standards
have had a poor start to the season. Two games played and no
points on the table to show yet a percentage of their
performances have been OK. Today with a trip to AFC Kempston
Rovers was going to be a make or break game even though we
are still in the early stages of the league campaign. One of
our last league games last season saw Sawbo earn a 3-0
victory with a weaker than usual side so with that result in
mind the Robins were entering the game with a slight
advantage although Kempston’s 4 points from their opening
two games this season meant they had started better than
their visitors this season
Sawbo were straight out of the
blocks and were in the face of their opponents from the
first whistle. By the time the first five minutes had ticked
by both Wendy Rankin and Zoe Plant had seen shots whistle
past the uprights of the Kempston goal. Rankin had also shot
well high and wide of the target as Sawbo dominated the
opening gambits. As we approached the 10 minute mark good
attacking play down Sawbo’s left saw Kempston put the ball
out for a corner. Jackie Stott fired the ball into the six
yard box where it skimmed the head of a Kempston defender.
Gemma Garner in the Kempston goal could only punch the ball
into the top of the net as it flew past her. The goal was
awarded to Stott as there was no real deflection to the path
of the ball prior to it hitting the back of the net. Rare
attacks by Kempston were broken up with ease as new central
defensive pairing of Jackie Day and Hannah Fraser were
marshalling the edge of the box with aplomb. The first 45
minutes seemed to fly by as the football on show was being
played at a very fast pace with Sawbo very much in charge.
Samantha Lowes in the Sawbo goal was not tested during the
first 45 apart from the odd pick up and distribute.
Playing up the slope for the
second period it was deemed that the first goal of the half
would almost settle the game and with Stott and Rebecca
Maybury running the centre of the Sawbo midfield the
opportunities were still coming. Once again two early
reminders to Kempston as Rankin and Plant again tried their
luck from the edge of the box but to no avail. Sawbo were
now causing havoc in and around the Kempston penalty area
and Kempston were not able to clear the ball. On 55 minutes
Stott found Joanne Gregory on the right and after a bit of
pin ball in the six yard box again the ball fell to Gregory
who clipped the ball to the far post for Rankin to slot home
Sawbo’s second of the game. Hayley Graham replaced the hard
working Gregory on the hour mark which for Kempston was
another hurdle to get over as Graham had pace to burn down
the flank and after Gregory’s efforts the defender was still
going to be tested at every turn with Graham running at her
with the ball. 3 minutes later a free kick awarded to Sawbo
saw Stott place the ball to
the far post found and an unmarked Rankin was in the right place at
the right time to nudge the ball into the net for Sawbo’s
third and her second of the game. Sawbo could and possibly
should have converted more of the chances created but the 3 – 0
score line was testament to the hard work shown by the
entire team and subs on show. Kempston did rally towards the
end of the game but it was too little too late as Lowes was
called upon to race out of goal and smother the ball at the
feet of the onrushing Kempston forward. new signing
Hannah Mead replaced Hutchinson with approx 10 minutes left
to play and slotted into the front line easily. Neat
footwork and lay off's is her natural game and in a short
space of time managed several of these moves.
Squad:- S.Lowes, N.Clifford,
J.Day, H.Fraser, E.Yarrien, J.Gregory, R.Maybury, J.Stott,
Z.Plant, A.Hutchinson, W.Rankin.
Subs Used:- H.Graham (Gregory
60), H.Mead (Hutchinson 78)
Subs not used:- L.Westcott, L.Pepper
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30-08-09
Hannakins
v Sawbridgeworth Town 1 - 0 (league)
Sawbo travelled to Hannakins with a very
depleted squad for this league game. With both Keepers
Samantha Lows working, Victoria Silvester on holiday, Ann
Anstey on holiday, Rebecca Maybury on a charity fundraiser
weekend, new signing Anne Hutchinson with pre- signing
arrangements, Emma Yarrien on holiday and Rebecca Gagg still
just a little short from playing after injury, it meant the
full squad was to be used against divisional newcomers
Hannakins who were crowned Essex County League Champions
2008-09.
Trying to start with a high tempo Sawbo
were first to produce a telling attack when Zoe Plant was
released down the left and as she cut in she drove her shot
just wide of the far upright on 2 minutes. With the game
entering a midfield contest as both side contested every
ball that was free but with no telling advantage going to
either side. Sawbo had started with midfielder Jacqueline
Stott between the sticks and she was not tested at all in
the first 30 minutes but every one was just a little
concerned when Hannakins won the ball on Sawbo left and
crossed the ball into the edge of the six yard box where it
was met by a Hannakins forward so sweetly that she drove the
ball inches over the cross bar on 35 minutes. With half time
approaching it was decided to make an early change at half
time to try and unlock a midfield that was very congested.
At times it looked as if Hannakins were playing a 3-6-1
formation which was stifling any Sawbo midfield creation.
Hayley King was substituted to make way for Stott to regain
a central midfield slot with Hannah Fraser resuming as a
right midfielder and Sub Samantha Rigby taking over between
the sticks.
The second half saw a slightly more
focused Hannakins and as a result Sawbo were being pushed
further back into the defensive third. 51 minutes gone and
another corner for Hannakins saw the ball driven into the
box and a snap shot ricocheted off the near post with
several Sawbo players standing still watching. This gave
Hannakins further impetus and a long ball down Sawbo’s left
was met and crossed into the centre of the edge of the box
where it was dispatched just inside the left upright for
Hannakins to be at that point deservedly in front after 65
minutes. Sawbo tried to up their game but at this time it
was going to be an uphill battle. An end to end contest now
continued until the final whistle and over the 90 minutes
Sawbo only managed 4 on target shots at goal which will
obviously have to be addressed if the club is to start
climbing the table.
Squad used:- J.Stott, N.Clifford,
L.Westcott, J.Gregory, H.King, H.Fraser, W.Rankin, Z.Plant,
H.Graham, T.Gillman
Subs Used:- S.Rigby (King 45), K.Eyre
(Gregory 80) Sub not used: K.Crump
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23-08-09
Sawbridgeworth
Town v Hoddesdon Owls
1 - 2 (league)
An overall first half
performance that is best left unsaid with regard to what
happened as Sawbo found themselves 2 - 0 down at the break
with little or no response. A very poor performance from a
squad that has looked top draw through pre-season. One of
the only positive instances of the first half was a rasping
shot from Zoe Plant that was touched around the post by the
Hoddesdon keeper
A half time discussion tried to
put right the errors and improve the mindset of the players
for the second half and it obviously worked. Sawbo were
quicker to the ball crisper in their passing and should have
had a goal back within 2 minutes of the restart. But for
some over zealous flag waving by the opposition club
assistant referee Sawbo could have had a hat full of chances
but were stopped by an unworthy linesman. Sawbo got a goal
back after some neat work down the left flank that released
Zoe Plant who cut in and drove the ball under the visiting
keeper on 71 minutes. Sawbo now with their tails up were
winning more balls in the middle of the park but the final
ball was either short or off target to make any difference
to the score line. Next week Sawbo visit promoted team
Hannakins so we shall have to set ourselves in a different
frame of mind so as to secure a result.
Squad:- S.Lowes, J.Gregory,
J.Day, J.Stott, S.Rigby, H.Fraser, L.Westcott, W.Rankin,
Z.Plant, H.Graham, R.Maybury.
Subs used:- T.Gillman (Rigby),
V.Silvester (Gregory), H.King (L.Westcott)
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16-08-09
Offley &
Stopsley v Sawbridgeworth Town
0 - 3 (pre-season friendly)
A beautiful sunny summers day was the back
drop to this second pre-season friendly against an old
adversary but with a new name. Offley & Stopsley are the
reborn Barton Rovers with many of the old squad still
playing.
Sawbo were able to field 16 players for this
game as with the league season starting next week the
manager had this game to finalise in his mind who may start
next week in our opening game against Hoddesdon Owls in the
league at Crofters.
Sawbo started well and were soon into their
stride with the ball being passed along the floor and only
the occasional mishit pass that went astray, but was soon
rectified with good solid defending and covering all across
the pitch. A day that saw several debutants wearing the
Sawbo shirt was also a reason for the game as it gave an in
depth view of players under pressure from the unknown rather
than team mates at training. A slick move down Sawbo’s left
saw Wendy Rankin and Zoe Plant exchange passes with Rankin
finally delivering the ball to Plant who slipped her marker
as she turned and delivered a superb shot just inside the
upright for the first goal on 10 minutes. 10 minutes later
the scoreline was doubled when Jacqueline Stott converted a
direct free kick from some 20 yards out after Plant had been
upended as she was attacking the left flank. Stott delivered
the ball above the outstretched hands of the home keeper and
just under the cross bar. Offley put up a little resistance
with the use of constant roll on roll off substitutions but
the stalwart team work within the Sawbo ranks was exemplary.
A new defensive line up saw Stott alongside Jackie Day in
the centre of defence with new signing Anne Hutchinson
slotting in at left back. Midfield saw Laura Westcott
alongside Rankin in a new midfield partnership and up front
saw a new duo of Hayley Graham and Rebecca Maybury running
the front line. The new partnerships will indeed take a
while to settle down but with the strength in depth that the
club now has Sawbo looks strong for the first time in a few
seasons. Sawbo made several substitutions on the hour mark
with Sam Lowes replaced by Vicky Silvester, Nicky Clifford
replaced by Hannah Fraser, Laura Westcott replaced by Kerry
Crump, Zoe Plant was replaced by Emma Yarrien and finally
Rebecca Maybury was replaced by Hayley King. The changes
remarkably went smoothly and although these new players had
come into a game that was a bit frantic they mastered the
pace quite quickly. Although Silvester was called upon to
act very sharply as a snap shot hit the upright and
rebounded back into a pack of players for it to squirm back
out and into space which Silvester smothered to calm the
situation. Sawbo were on the march again and this time
Rankin became provider as she played the ball to Hannah
Fraser who beat her marker down the flank and crossed the
ball back into the middle of the park, Rankin had made up
ground and it looked as if she was going to unleash a shot
at goal but she allowed the ball to pass her to King who
calmly side footed the ball into the net for Sawbo’s third.
Overall a very encouraging performance from
the Sawbo squad which should bode well for the forthcoming
season.
Squad from:- S.Lowes, N.Clifford, J.Day,
J.Stott, A.Hutchinson, J.Gregory, L.Westcott, W.Rankin.
Z.Plant, H.Graham, R.Maybury. V.Silvester, K.Crump, H.King,
H.Fraser, E.Yarrien
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09-08-09
Woodbridge Town
v Sawbridgeworth Town 2 - 1
(pre-season friendly)
The season has started,
Only 12 players available for
this fixture, an away trip to Woodbridge Town near Ipswich.
Premier Division side Woodbridge has almost become a regular
pre-season fixture as a test for Sawbridgeworth Town just
before the season gets under way, and over the past few
seasons the honours have been slightly in favour of
Sawbridgeworth Town.
A brisk start by both sides and
after a few early exchanges Sawbo began to take control.
Sharp passing and continuous movement saw the first effort
on goal from Rankin who just edged the ball wide of the
target. Woodbridge made a rare advance into the Sawbo
defensive third when the ball was played out to Lauren
Richardson who crafted some space to cross into the area
from the edge of the box. With the Sawbo players watching
the ball it evaded everyone and hit the far post and
squirmed over the line for the opening goal on 9 minutes.
After all the early pressure it was a harsh goal to take but
Sawbo settled again and started again to regain control of
the midfield areas. The next 20 to 30 minutes saw a little
bit of a battleground as several overly strong tackles were
made primarily from the home side of which one such tackle
left its mark on keeper Sam Lowes when she slid on the
ground to gather the ball to her chest only to find the
studs of the attackers boot hitting her on the chest at
almost the same time. The referee chose to sin bin the
offending player for a period of some 10 minutes to calm the
situation. 65 minutes gone and Sawbo seemed to gain another
level and a superb piece of play down the left saw Zoe Plant
leave her marker for dead as she out paced her to the goal
line where she drove a cross back across goal, unlike
earlier in the game this time Wendy Rankin was on hand to
drive the ball into the top of the net for a well deserved
equalizer. Considering we were playing Premier Division
opponents it was Sawbo's day in as much of possession,
tactics, and team work, so it was a really cruel blow when
Kerry Crump tried to clear a ball on the wide left but her
headed clearance was not strong enough and the ball fell to
the unmarked Charlene Roach who drove the ball past the
diving outstretched hands of keeper Sam Lowes for the winner
on 87 minutes. The exercise was to get the players back into
playing mode ready for the season in two weeks time and it
served that purpose. Sam Rigby had a solid debut with her
first game in quite a few years and with the side being
constantly changed around positionaly the overall
performance was well beyond expectations. Fitness showed we
are well past that of our premier opponents today which
bodes well for a good start to this new season. Next Sunday
we are away again for a final pre-season test against Offley
and Stopsley WFC who are a re-branded Barton Rovers from a
few seasons back. It is expected that several players who
were unavailable today will make their debut for Sawbo next
week. Katie Eyre, Hayley Graham, Anne Hutchinson and
Laura Westcott, along with last seasons regulars Nicky
Clifford, Emma Yarrien, and Hannah Fraser, as well as Rebecca Maybury who
has now finished her world travels we hope. A player who
will not feature is Rebecca Gagg who is still recovering
from surgery.
Squad from:- S.Lowes, K.Crump,
J.Day, A.Anstey, S.Rigby, J.Gregory, J.Stott, W.Rankin,
Z.Plant, V.Silvester, T.Gillman, H.King
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31-07-09
As you may have already found
out we have been drawn against Garston in the FA Women's Cup
1st Qualifying Round. We have again been given a home draw
which seems that this season our referee fees may be a lot
higher. We like the rest of the Eastern Region have all got
bye's into this round so it will appear that we may have a
change of fixture which will mean the September 27th fixture
will or might now be played a couple of weeks earlier on the
13th September. The only change is that it will be a home
game rather than away as Whitwell do not have their pitch
for that day. This fixture change has not yet been confirmed
it is just my interpretation of situation. I will notify you
of confirmed changes as I get them.
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28-07-09
The draw for the first two
rounds of the League cup were drawn last night and we have
been given a home tie against Peterborough in the first
round. When we beat them we play the winners of Histon
Hornets or Brentwood Town in the second Round.
I have also learnt today by
e-mail that Vicky Neville will not be staying with the club
as a change of job and getting plans ready for her
forthcoming wedding are not giving her the time she needs to
continue training with us.
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24-07-09
We have been given a bye in the
first round of the Herts County Cup which may mean that we
will have a different fixture to that which is printed for
the 18th October 2009. For the second round we have a home
tie against Watford first team on 15th November 2009. So our
game against Hannakins will be put to a later date in the
calendar. The FA Women's cup draw will be done next week so
as soon as that is available I will let you all know.
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03-07-09
I have now listed all the known
fixtures for the forthcoming season on the fixture page of
this site. We have yet to receive any FA Women's Cup, County
Cup or League Cup fixtures but as soon as they have been
received they will be entered into the fixture list. For
this season there is only the one League Cup Competition as
the League Plate and Lisa Slater Memorial Shield
Competitions have been set aside to see if we can this
season finish the league on time. (There may be an extra
Competition at the back end of the season if all games are
played).
We have secured friendlies
against Woodbridge Town (09-08-09) and last night I agreed
to a friendly against Offley & Stopsley (16-08-09) who are
in effect the old Barton Rovers. Not quite sure of the venue
as yet but initially it will be at their ground near
Hitchin.
We have seen at least 5 new
faces at training over the past few weeks which is very
encouraging and there is at least one more still to show as
we look to strengthen for next season, so hopefully we will
have a squad with cover for all positions which will be a
first for some time.
Pre-Season training will start
on Sunday 12th July at the Club (start times yet to be
agreed). Player registration started on Wednesday last and
we need to have all players registered by the last week in
July at the latest so that the league are satisfied we have
enough players for the season.
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10-06-09
I have now completed the
web site upgrade to be in line for next season. As far as
the Start date for next season and the final constitution of
clubs will be decided at the AGM next Monday night, so from
Tuesday I should have all the relevant info on the site
although the fixtures usually take a couple of weeks to
formulate.
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10-06-09
Just in case you
are reading this out of curiosity we are very much on the
look out for players for next season. Although we are open
to all abilities if you do have experience and are looking
to change clubs for next season then please give me a call
on 01279-424342 or 07926-147687 and I will answer all your
questions.
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10-06-09
As a club member you will know
that on Saturday 20th June 2009 it is our clubs Presentation
night. Friends and family are all welcome. 7.00pm till late.
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