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Archive 09-10

Archive 08-09

Archive 07-08

Archive 06-07

Archive 05-06

Archive 04-05

Archive 03-04

 

Reserves News 07-08

Reserves News 06-07

Reserves News 05-06


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)

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

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)

 

 

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.

 

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 .

 

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.

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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!!!!

 

22-11-09

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Billericay Town   P - P (Waterlogged Pitch)

 

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.    

 

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.    

 

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

 

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.

 

 

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.

 

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.

 

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. 

 

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)

 

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

 

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)

 

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),

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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)

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

 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.

 

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.

 

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.