News and Match Reports  

30-04-06

As a result of the Division One East game today between Chelmsford City and Haverhill Rovers, Haverhill Rovers are Champions and Brentwood Town are runners up. We will now play Brentwood Town in the first play-off on 21st May 2006 at Ipswich Wanderers FC.

23-04-06

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Arlesey Town   3 - 0

This was the last league game of the season for both these sides and with the last game against Arlesey ending in a 3-2 win to the Robins after extra time it meant that this game was not going to be a walk over but a hard competitive game that would have to be won by hard work. Sawbo were still trying to keep the pressure on Kempston Rovers while there was a slight chance that they could slip up in the final games. Sawbo had to win to keep in there and at least a win would give them a guaranteed runners up spot.

Sawbo kicked off and the first three minutes were Sawbo's as they pushed forward looking for an early strike . A corner awarded on the 3rd minutes saw the float into the box but no one had read the flight of the ball so it was cleared easily. The next 10 minutes saw the ball and game go end to end as both sides battled for the upper hand and finally it went to Arlesey who were playing with more understanding than Sawbo and but for some superb defensive play Arlesey might well have been able to get a shot off and could have scored.

With a few game play alterations at half time Sawbo entered the second half in a more determined mood and a lot more focused on the job at hand which was to  try and get a favorable result so as to at least secure a runners - up spot in the division . Almost constant pressure by the home side for the first 5 minutes of the half  saw at the end of this time a ball played deep into the penalty box which Laura Day followed  and as she was about to gain control of the ball her legs were taken from her by Amee Fage in the Arlesey goal and the referee instantly gave a penalty decision. Jackie Stott converted to put the home side ahead. Stott then became provider when she turned her marker on the right flank and crossed into the six yard box for Clare Halfpenny to nod home from 4 yards to give the home side a more comfortable cushion of a 2 goals advantage.  Sawbo were now playing superb football as the goals gave them the chance to relax a little, Ann Anstey won the ball in the middle of the park and released Carlye Stein who in turn found Claire Taylor who lobbed the keeper from the edge of the box to give a 3-0 score line to the home side. This win along with AFC Kempston Rovers winning has now settled the divisional positions at the top. Sawbo have to settle for the runners-up spot this season which gives them play-offs at the end of May to decide if they can win their way back into the premier division for 2006-2007. AFC Kempston Rovers are promoted as champions.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, L.Day, C.Taylor.

Subs used: C.Stein, C.Poulton    Subs not used: J.Frost, J.Pyne

18-04-06

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Hoddesdon Owls   2 - 0

This game was the first game played under lights at Crofters and the second game this season under lights as the first game against Hoddesdon was played at Hertford Town FC where Hoddesdon play their games. The two extremes were being contested with Sawbridgeworth needing to keep winning so that any chance of finishing champions or runners up in the league was still in the pot and Hoddesdon were at the other end of the table playing for pride.

The opening minutes of this game saw an upbeat Hoddesdon take the game to Sawbo and several half chances were created, but the miserly Sawbo defence held firm and slowly started to get themselves into the game. It seemed that Sawbo were not quite into the stride of things as final passes were going astray but the build up play was beginning to work. 10 minutes into the game Sawbo won the ball in midfield and released a superb ball into the feet of the running Laura Day who at this point must have had a little luck on her side as she fired the ball goal ward Vicky Hewett in the Hoddesdon goal managed to get fingertips to the ball but was unable to stop the ball from hitting the back of the net. More sound approach play from Sawbo found Day free but she was now being closed down as soon as she received the ball and this gave Joanne Gregory a little space alongside Day to have the opportunity to strike for goal but Hoddesdon player of the match Hewett was in inspired form for the visitors. Sawbridgeworth had much more of the open play than Hoddesdon but their efforts did not produce the goals that the play deserved.

The second half had Sawbo with the slope in their favour and they started a little sharper than their visitors, good overlapping play by both wide midfielders Carlye Stein and Clare Halfpenny almost produced the crosses into the box that Day and Gregory were waiting for but despairing challenges were made by the Hoddesdon back line to stop the final ball. On 57 minutes  a brilliant 5 man move resulted in Jackie Stott firing a cross into the six yard box where Day immediately fired the ball into the net for her and Sawbo's second goal. It was the best move of the game and the end result was justification of the football Sawbo had played. Claire Taylor replaced Gregory on the hour mark and Sawbo kept the pressure up. Taylor gave a slightly different front line approach to Gregory and it almost paid dividends only to see once again the final ball not hitting the mark. At the end of the game it was a sound Sawbridgeworth performance against a gritty hard working Hoddesdon side that but for a poor start to the season would have been looking at Regional football next season instead of County league football that now awaits them. Jackie Stott received the player of the match selection from Hoddesdon, and once again the hard working Ann Anstey got the managers vote.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, L.Day, J.Gregory.  Sub used: C.Taylor

09-04-06

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Stevenage Borough  0 - 0 (full time)

                                                                                                                          0 - 0 (after extra time)

                                                                                                                          4 - 2 (after penalties)

When you have two teams drawn together in a semi-final that have the best defensive records in the league there was never going to be an avalanche of goals in the game. Playing at a neutral venue of Cottenham United and with appointed officials courtesy of the Cambridgeshire FA the game was set up for almost a final scenario.

The first thirty minutes Sawbridgeworth's defensive abilities were tested to the full and Stevenage pushed for the opening goal.  Four corners in the space of the first ten minutes had the Robins back on their heels but good handling by Debbie Williams in the Sawbo goal prevented any real goal mouth alerts. Anna Ruiz-Jerez was the main outlet for Stevenage and she was testing the Robins back line but they held firm and restricted her to just two efforts which did not test Williams. The last fifteen minutes of the first half saw Sawbo get into the game and they started to push and pressure the Stevenage midfield and back line as they pushed to get their first goal but like Stevenage Sawbo could not test Rosie Millbrow in the Stevenage goal to the extent of opening the scoring.

The second half saw Sawbridgeworth take more control over the game and like Stevenage in the first half played the ball more in their half of the pitch than their own. Carlye Stein, Laura Day and Jackie Stott all had half chances but could not get the killer touch to put the ball into the back of the net. Then a series of corners for the Robins put more pressure on the Stevenage defence but they held firm and cleared the danger. The game was being played in a manner that saw both teams cancelling each other out as it seemed that both sets of players were more interested in not losing rather than trying to win. Extra time loomed and it was Sawbo who were finishing the stronger but the ninety minutes finished goalless.

Extra time was really a mirror image of the full ninety as both side pushed and pressured but with no real final effort to show for their endeavors. For Sawbo all thirteen players used on the day were magnificent and as the thought of penalties now came to mind not one player could be singled out as each and every one played their part in this game.

Penalties require strong players who stand up to be counted and with no hesitation Jackie Stott, Ann Anstey, Nicky Clifford, xox and finally Clare Halfpenny put their names on the list.  Stott was the first to walk the long walk from the centre circle to the penalty spot and with everyone expecting the net to ripple as the ball hit it were left amazed as the ball went over the crossbar, Stevenage then strode up and converted which put Sawbo under pressure. Anstey was next in line and she steadied herself and drove the ball home to equalize, it was then Stevenage's turn to feel the pressure of the occasion and they put the ball wide of the target so all square again. Clifford then took the third penalty to try and put Sawbo ahead and she did not let the side down as she placed the ball well for Sawbo to now be in front for the first time. The third taker for Stevenage was now under more pressure as she walked to the ball and the pressure took its toll as she blasted the ball over the crossbar. Sawbo captain xox was the fourth taker for Sawbo and she calmly drove the ball into the net to now put Sawbo three one ahead. At this point the referee lost the plot so as to speak as he thought that Sawbo had won the game and blew up but then realized his mistake Stevenage walked up to take their fourth penalty. After the referee mistake the Stevenage player must have been under tremendous pressure but she very calmly dispatched the ball into the net for their second. It was now down to Halfpenny who had the chance to settle the game and make it an unassailable lead for Sawbo and she drove her penalty past the diving hands of Millbrow and Sawbridgeworth Town were now in the final for the second year running.

Credit must be given to both sets of players who battled hard for one hundred and twenty minutes to produce a semi-final that will be remembered for a long while.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, C.Halfpenny, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, J.Gregory, L.Day, C.Taylor,  Subs used: C.Poulton, J.Pyne

02-04-06

AFC Kempston Rovers   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   2 - 1

This was a must win game for both clubs but more so for Sawbo as Kempston have games in hand and if those were won it would give them the divisional title, so much was at stake as a result of this game. Playing on the back pitch at Kempston which is not the widest of pitches in the division and also not the longest  which also has a slope bigger than Sawbo meant many adjustments were to be made by the Robins, also the gusting wind was to play a major part in this top of the table fixture.

Both teams started with earnest and the flow of the game was end to end for the first 10 minutes. Slowly Sawbo began to get used to the pitch and the conditions and began to play with more composure and the game started to flow with neat passing albeit not on a regular basis as any ball played above 3 feet off the ground ended up as an air ball as the wind took hold. Sawbo mounted an attack down the right flank that saw Carlye Stein feeding Claire Taylor who crossed for Laura Day to fire the ball, into the roof of the net with a left foot drive on 13 minutes.  Obvious elation at going 1 up Kempston saw their chance to capitalize on the spaces being allowed and forced a corner on 19 minutes A superb driven corner was met by Kempston's Carmelina Milazzo who rose above everyone and headed the ball home for the equaliser. Just before the interval another Sawbow attack saw Taylor's shot rebound off the right upright with the keeper beaten which at that time would have given Sawbo the much deserved lead. Sound work throughout the side had kept Kempston at bay and had begun to cause hesitancy within the Kempston ranks which towards the end of the half had seen more gaps appearing.

Playing up the slope and against the wind was to be a major task for Sawbo but as a team they worked well apart from the odd Kempston attack. 5 minutes into the half Haley Reynolds drove the ball wide of Debbie Williams goal. Then keeping to the pattern of this end to end encounter Sawbo attacked and Taylor found Day who's shot was somehow pushed round the post by the diving Kempston keeper when the ball was on the way to goal. On 65 and 70 minutes respectively Jo Gregory was replaced by Jackie Frost and Claire Taylor was replaced by Claire Poulton the two substitutions was to try and break the deadlock that the game was in but all was to change on the 82 minute when a shot from Sally Dayus of Kempston was covered by the dive of Williams but Reynolds carried her run full into Williams with her studs catching the head of Williams which in turn knocked the ball into the net along with Williams and Reynolds. From the touchline it appeared a straight forward foul on the keeper as Williams was left on the ground concussed from the blow. To the dismay of all the referee awarded a goal saying that it was a 50-50 ball. Obviously aggrieved by this as it meant the game was eventually won against a 10 man Sawbo team that had for 65% of the game played with a great spirit and deserved something from the 90 minutes. It was in the end a game that was won by the referee for the home side which has left a real sour taste in the mouth.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, C.Halfpenny, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, J.Gregory, L.Day, C.Taylor. 

Subs used: J.Frost, C.Poulton.

26-03-06

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Kettering Town    2 - 0

Today's game starts a three week group of games that could shape the rest of the season for Sawbridgeworth Town Women's FC. Playing Kettering Town today then AFC Kempston Rovers next week in the league are two must win games if the championship is still the main agenda. Then the week after these two game Sawbo are pitched into a semi-final game against Stevenage Borough which again becomes a must win game if we want to get to another final. So the pressure is mounting for this young Sawbo side.

The game started quite evenly as expected with both teams contesting every ball. Choosing to play up the slope in the first half Sawbo were also playing against a strong wind which played a major part in how the game was to play out. On 8 minutes Sawbo could have opened the scoring when a ball from the midfield found Laura Day who went down the channel and crossed for Joanne Gregory who under pressure was unable to convert. Sawbo were beginning to exert more pressure on the Kettering defence and on 10 minutes won a corner. From a well taken kick the ball was headed over by Clare Halfpenny. Halfpenny was released on the edge of the Kettering box on 22 minutes and was unlucky to see her goal bound drive smothered by Kirsty Munro in the Kettering goal. A minute later saw Halfpenny again test the keeper but this time Munro could only push the ball round the post for a corner. Day was being a thorn in the side of Kettering defender Angela Bailey as time and again she turned her to gain the space for a cross or shot into the Kettering penalty box, but each time the connection failed to be made by the advancing Sawbo attack.  A superb driven corner found the head of xox who powered the ball straight at Munro who managed to hold onto the ball on 36 minutes. It was now Kettering's turn to put a little pressure on the home sides defence and a free kick awarded some 25 yards out from goal was driven just wide of the upright.

The second half started in much the same vane although it was noticeable that Kettering was finding the relentless forward play of the Sawbridgeworth team hard to take and it was on 58 minutes that the deadlock was broken when Day latched onto a poor defensive clearance to slot the ball home for the Robins to go 1-0 ahead. The goal was what was needed by the home side as now the shackles were off the football began to flow. So far this game had shown the best team play the Sawbo side had produced for a long while and it was becoming difficult for Kettering to win the ball and when they did it was won back again by the tenacious Robins. Sawbo had to wait until the 67th minute before they put the game to bed so as to speak when at the end of a 5 man move which cut the Kettering team in half saw Day convert for her and Sawbow's second. This was a convincing win against a team that was at the beginning of play joint top of the division with Sawbo. The opposition picked out Jackie Stott as their choice for player of the match but mention must go to the managers choice which was Ann Anstey who did not stop chasing, tackling, and generally making it difficult for Kettering to play through the whole game. One should also make a mention of the tireless running of Laura Day who kept the front line alive across the park scoring two goals and also making the chances of others to score in an unselfish manner . The second half also saw the re-emergence of Gaynor Fisher who was brought on as a substitute after some 8 weeks on injury following a ruptured quad muscle. Also Claire Taylor who had recently been registered with the first team from the reserves also got into the act as a substitute. With three games left to play in the league it is all about winning the next game as we strive to gain promotion to the Premier division for the 2006-2007 season

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, L.Day, J.Gregory.

Subs used: G.Fisher, C.Taylor.

13-03-06

League Plate Semi-Final Draw

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Stevenage Borough

AFC Kempston Rovers   v   Haverhill Rovers / Cambridge Rangers

The draws has pitched the Robins against Stevenage Borough in the semi-final with Sawbo being given the home station. Although the game will be played at a neutral ground it is a good omen for us. With referee and assistants to be allocated we will not have any biased or homer officials so who ever loses should have no complaints

12-03-06

League Plate 3rd round

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Huntingdon Town   2 - 1

After two convincing wins in the previous league games when Huntingdon played with less than 11 players today's game was going to be a more difficult task because of the way in which Huntingdon have picked themselves up of late with a few wins of their own and against good opposition. Huntingdon also came to the game boasting a full squad and 4 subs.

Sawbo found the new look Huntingdon a more focused side as from the first whistle they put the Sawbo side under pressure and for those first 10 - 15 minutes were contesting everything and although Huntingdon did not have a clear shot on goal the evidence was there that if this was to continue then they might just get a chance. Sawbo got a free kick just on the edge of the box on the quarter hour mark which saw Anna Parks in the Huntingdon goal push they ball around the post for a corner. Then on 27 minutes it looked as if Sawbo would open the scoring when Hannah Fraser laid a through ball to Joanne Gregory who went one on one with Parks only to see the keeper come out and close the angle and the shot to go just wide of the post. More pressure was mounting and Carlye Stein tried to lob Parks who was off her line but she managed to just get the ball. With a couple of minutes before the break Sawbo again took the initiative and from a Jackie Stott corner xox stole in but found her headed attempt go straight at the keeper. Almost straight from this attack Huntingdon broke down the left and the ball was played to Nadine Bowles who cut into the box from the flank and drove the ball across Debbie Williams for the opening goal on 44 minutes. The goal came about because of a lack of marking which was just a  slight blip for what was a good half for Sawbo.

Sawbo started the second half with  a determination to get the goal back and to try and win the game, but Huntingdon were not about to sit back and let it happen. The Robins continued to gain more possession in the middle of the park but could not find the final ball to try and get back into the game. A shot from Laura Day on 50 minutes looked goal bound until Parks dived and smothered the ball. Then the breakthrough came when Gregory was found just inside the edge of the box and her superb turn and shot saw the ball glide just inside the post for the equalizing goal and Gregory's first goal for the club this season.  With this goal came a change in attitude of the Robins as they upped their game to another level and the football was a delight to watch. Day had another chance but found Parks in superb form as she again saved the goal bound shot. Then on the hour mark Clare Halfpenny was found on the left flank and her pace took her past the Hunts defender and she crossed for Stein who shot for goal but the cross bar came into play and the ball rebounded to safety. It was not going to be  Day's day as again she was clear on goal but could not find a space past the impressive Parks. All through the game Huntingdon captain Amanda Godfrey was inspiring her young side and Sawbo had known they were in a game as past encounters meant for nothing. Then on 82 minutes Sawbo won the ball again in the midfield and the ball was passed to Stein  who this time dispatched the ball into the roof of the net for Sawbo to go into the lead for the first time in the game. A sigh of relief came at the final whistle as a semi final place now awaits the Robins. Huntingdon proved that with the right backing they can be a difficult side to beat even though this was a cup game and teams are know to up their game in these situations. Carlye Stein was voted player of the match by the opposition. Joanne Gregory must be singled out for a mention as she put everything aside to produce a sound second half performance that resulted in her first goal this season.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, L.Day, J.Gregory.  Subs not used: J.Pyne, C.Poulton

06-03-06

As breaking news I would like to inform you all that Sawbridgeworth Town have just signed a promising talent in the name of Lindsey Kendall. Having played for a junior side in Bishops Stortford for past three years she comes to the club with a certain amount of experience that will enhance the growing band of young players that enrich the reserve squad. Learning to play at a senior level will take its time but high hopes are placed on Lindsey achieving the goals set out for her. Welcome to the club Lindsey.

05-03-06

Stevenage Borough   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 0

A short trip along the A414 takes you almost to Codicote the home of Stevenage Borough. With the best two defensive records in the division this was never going to be a high scoring game and with the added ingredient of  a gusting wind control was going to be a major factor as well.

After last weeks poor performance Sawbo were keen to put that behind them and produce a worthwhile display against Stevenage and try to keep the pressure on Kettering for the top spot in the division. With the wind at their backs Sawbo kept possession well and several chances were created within the first 20 minutes  with three corners being awarded almost one after another as the Robins looked for the opening goal. Stevenage were having trouble defending against the flowing Sawbo side and but for some late defensive tackles that on several players left their mark Sawbo can feel aggrieved that their efforts did not produce the goal/s that their overall first half possession should have given them. At times the competitive nature of the game came close to boiling point as the referee did not have control of the game and several challenges went unpunished. The worst of which was a two footed challenge on Ann Anstey that left a hole in her sock and a bruised shin from the studs of the Stevenage midfielder.

The second half saw Stevenage have a little more possession as with the wind in their favour they tried to outwit the Sawbo defence with long floated balls that were meant to drop over into the space behind but sound defensive understanding by Robyn McFayden swept the ball away and another Sawbo attack was underway. Sawbo came closest to scoring with just 4 minutes remaining when Carlye Stein tried to half shoot and half lob the Stevenage keeper only to see the keepers despairing hands claw the ball away, the ball took an age to fall and Joanne Gregory was on hand but the wait took its toll and the final shot went agonizingly over the bar. This was a much better performance from the Robins as the team ethic returned, along with the overall performance was the return of a clean sheet which was a must as next week Sawbridgeworth Town entertain Huntingdon Town in the Quarter final of the League Plate.

With Kettering Town loosing to Godmanchester Rovers it means that the Robins reclaim top spot on goal difference

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, H.Fraser, J.Gregory, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Stein, C.Halfpenny, L.Day

26-02-06

Cambridge Rangers   v   Sawbridgeworth Town    2 - 0

The day started as is was to eventually end with Sawbridgeworth Town playing the poorest game of the season and losing for only the second time in the league to a team that although have been playing better of late have not really played well all season.

Late arrivals meant that the journey north started some 30 minutes late and added to that the fact that the M11 northbound has some horrendous road works the route north was to be by 'A' roads which took in the local scenery.  Arriving at the ground some 40 minutes later than planned meant a hasty change and warm up ahead of what was to be a hard struggle throughout the 90 minutes of play.

With the wind almost constantly blowing from one end of the pitch to the other Rangers won the toss and decided to play with the wind at their backs for the first half. The wind was like an extra player and Sawbo found themselves camped in their own half for long periods. All this pressure almost counted as the ball was cleared off the line on 20 minutes which was some relief for the Sawbo defence which had been under pressure for some time. A rare break into the Cambridge half resulted in Sawbo gaining a corner on 22 minutes. Jackie Stott drove the ball into the edge of the six yard box where Ann Anstey connected beautifully only to see the ball just skim the cross bar and over for a goal kick. Some 4 minutes later Anstey became provider as Stott was released down the centre only to see her final shot hit the side netting. At this point Sawbo had clawed their way back into the game and although the wind was still against them the opportunities were presenting themselves and from one such opportunity Stott brought the best save of the game out of the Rangers keeper who just managed to push the ball around the post for another corner. This little bit of sustained pressure brought Rangers back to life and with just 3 minutes to go before the break the Sawbo marking went astray. The ball was played into the Sawbo defensive left corner and was played into the box where the first attempt at goal was covered by xox but the ball fell to Alison Smethurst who side footed the ball into the net for Rangers opener.

It was felt that the second half with the wind at their backs that Sawbridgeworth would get the goal back and drive on to win the game but the day had other ideas. Sawbo were far below their usual high standards with almost every player playing below par. Every movement seemed an effort that was almost beyond the players on the pitch and although effort was being shown there was no cohesive look to the team. With Rangers now well on top a corner conceded meant more defensive duties were required and once again Sawbo fell short of what was required as the ball found the head of Carrie Hurelbrink who dispatched the ball into the net for Rangers second. Two substitutions were made by Sawbo to try and liven up the poor display with Jackie Frost replacing Kelly Mullender and Jessica Pyne replacing Claire Poulton. Both substitutes slotted into their tasks easily and performed as asked. The last ditch effort to try and get something out of the game saw xox and Carley Stein pushed up front as strikers but the ball did not get there.

It was in the end a very poor display that hopefully  will not be repeated as the season takes its final turn. Luckily Kettering who could have gone three points clear at the top of the table were held to a 2 - 2 draw with Hoddesdon Owls so all is not lost. Next week Sawbridgeworth Town travel to Stevenage Borough so that game becomes a must win as we strive to be champions but on today's performance we are a long way short.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, H.Fraser, C.Halfpenny, J.Gregory, C.Stein. A.Anstey, K.Mullender, J.Stott, C.Poulton.    Subs used: J.Frost, J.Pyne

21-02-06

At last nights ERWFL Council meeting the draw was conducted for the quarter finals of the league plate and we have been given a home draw against Huntingdon Town. The full draw is listed below.

AFC Kempston Rovers / Godmanchester Rovers  v  Hoddesdon Owls

Stevenage Borough / Stanway  v  Mulbarton Belles

Haverhill Rovers  v  Cambridge Rangers

Sawbridgeworth Town  v  Huntingdon Town

In the cup the draw saw:

Cambridge University / Norwich Canaries  v  Barking

Cambridge City  v  Haringey Borough

Brentwood Town  v  Peterborough

Hethersett Athletic  v  Woodbridge Town

The Lisa Slater Memorial Shield draw was:

Kings Lynn  v  Kings Sports

Stevenage Borough / Stanway   Bye

AFC Kempston Rovers / Godmanchester Rovers   Bye

Arlesey Town   Bye

These games will be played on Sunday 12th March 2006

12-02-06

League Plate 2nd Round

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Arlesey Town   3 -2 aet

The Robins were made to work for the result today as Arlesey Town came with a mission and nearly pulled it off. With Sarah Tayler back in  the fold and other players back from injury Arlesey were a different side that Sawbow beat 5 - 0 in the league late last year.

On a very wet and sticky surface both teams set about getting to grips with the surface and trying to play football. Both teams seem to be able to move the ball well across the surface and some good end to end football was being played. On 6 minutes Sawbo won the first corner of the game and Jackie Stott fired the ball into the box and Carlye Stein managed to strike the ball well but straight at the Arlesey keeper. More end to end football but as the game went on Sawbo were just getting the upper hand in midfield. Then on the half hour mark xox was again caught on the shin she injured last week at Hitchin and was for the next few minutes taken from the field of play to have treatment. Being down to 10 men Sawbow battled harder and prevented Arlesey any space in which to exploit the space gained by not having xox on the pitch. xox returned to the game with 8 minutes of the half remaining and was on hand to make a decisive tackle on the edge of the box as Arlesey began to exert a little bit of pressure at the end of the first half.

Playing up the slope for this half Sawbow were to battle the pitch and the slope and on 50 minutes a corner by Stott found xox who for this half was moved to right midfield who headed home the opening goal. The goal was a monster relief for Sawbow who were beginning to wonder where the goals would come from as try as they might the final shots were not directed or powerful enough to beat the Arlesey keeper. It was not until the 75th minute that the second goal was scored when xox was once again played the ball by Stott on the right of the penalty box, xox showed her skill by beating two defenders before driving the ball home for Sawbow's second. With 11 minutes left to play xox was replaced by Poulton as at this time it was felt the game was won and we would run down the last few minutes and go home with a win. All through the game Arlesey's Sarah Tayler was marshaled by player of the match Hannah Fraser who time and again made the final challenge to thwart her advances, but then as if concentration was a nasty word Arlesey were allowed time and space to  get back into the game when Mia Price scored for Arlesey. This goal lifted Arlesey and they started to push forward in numbers leaving just one-on -one at the back as they tried to get the equaliser but Sawbow held firm. Then with seconds remaining Arlesey's Kim Burton shot for goal and for a split second Debbie Williams in the Sawbow goal did not react as expected, firstly she moved to pick the ball up but then changed her mind and tried to kick the ball clear only for the ball to squirm onto the outside of her foot and into the goal. Sawbow barely had time to restart the match before the final whistle blew and extra time was looming. 

The first period of extra time went by without too much goal action although both teams must be commended for their fitness as they were still going strong on a very (now) muddy and slippery surface as all through the game the rain fell making the pitch especially down the middle very unstable. It was now a situation where whoever managed to get the next goal would almost certainly win the game as with the second period of extra time both sets of players were tiring badly. Substitute Claire Poulton who came into the game as a replacement for xox was not only the cleanest player on the pitch but also had those extra legs needed now to break free from the defensive shackles that Arlesey had put across the pitch. With 4 minutes of extra time left to play and penalties looming Poulton latched onto a through ball and drove the ball into the near corner of the goal for Sawbow to go ahead in the game once more. Sawbow this time started to defend better and when the game ended both sets of players were applauded off the pitch. The game had been played in a superb manner which drew a comment from referee Mr. Ron Bunce that the game was a superb advert for women's football and football in general, taking into account the playing conditions and the standard of play on offer.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, H.Fraser, C.Halfpenny, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, K.Mullender, L.Day, J.Gregory,     Sub used: C.Poulton

06-02-06

We have now had our February fixtures given for the First team which are now listed on the fixtures page. We still await dates for AFC Kempston Rovers and Kettering Town and the night game aginst Hoddesdon  Owls

05-02-06

Hitchin Hearts   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 2

After last weeks loss of two points it was feared that close rivals Kettering would creep up on the Robins  but they lost to Cottenham which meant the point gained against Kempston allowed Sawbo to increase the lead at the top of the table to 3 points although Kettering have a game in hand. It was then imperative to get back to winning ways and it was fortunate that today game was against the bottom side in the table Hitchin. Fortunate because of the injuries to Judith Duffin (knee) Gaynor Fisher (Quad Muscle) Charlotte Turner (Broken bone in foot) plus the fact that Hannah Fraser and Jo Gregory were just back after ankle injuries, and Clare Halfpenny  was still suffering slight shin splints. But 11 players made themselves available for the game and were determined to keep the pressure up at the top of the table.

Sawbow  entered the fray at a gallop and within the first minute had secured the first corner of the game. A mass of bodies prevented the ball from going any further than the edge of the 6 yard box but Sawbo had made their intentions clear from the first whistle. On 10 minutes Hitchins experienced center back Paula Hawkins had to be substituted as she pulled her hamstring which meant a reshuffle of the Hitchin back line. This reshuffle saw Hitchin top goal scorer Laura Ravenscroft revert from centre midfield to a center back position which weakened the team immensely. The game was being played almost entirely in the Hitchin half of the pitch but Sawbo could not find the final shot that would have given them the lead. Hitchin defended in numbers so space became limited then on 40 minutes a horrendous tackle saw xox having to be taken off the pitch for lengthy treatment to a heavily bruised shin from the studs of the Hitchin player. While xox was being treated a corner won by the Robins on the right saw Jackie Stott float the ball into the box where Robyn McFayden dispatched a diving header into the back of the net for the opening goal.

To maintain 11 players on the pitch xox returned to the game at the start of the second half but as a right midfielder. Carlye Stein went to center midfield with Ann Anstey taking over a center back. The reshaping that the Robins had to make because of the injury to xox did not make a major difference to the way in which the Robins played and this allowed the Sawbo team to continue where they left off in the first half. Almost constant possession saw Sawbo play some superb football with the ball being played all across the park and one of the best moves of the game ended with Stott laying the ball back to xox who fired the ball onto the cross bar only to see the rebound drift wide of the goal from the boot of Stott. Sawbo got their much deserved second goal again after a superb bit of football when Clare Halfpenny linked up with Stott who found space and laid the ball to Carlye Stein who fired the ball just under the cross bar from 22 yards. More opportunities opened up for the Robins but good goal keeping from Mel Sayer in the Hitchin goal and some resolute defending stopped what could have been many more goals against.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, J.Gregory, L.Day 

29-01-06

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   AFC Kempston Rovers   1 - 1

It seems that as we start to reach the final run in to the end of the season we are fixtured to play another rival for the top spot and today's visitors Kempston Rovers are one of those sides who are hot on our heels with 2 games in hand and just 5 points behind so should them games be won they would top the table. So this was to be another must not lose game.

As expected the game started in a frantic manner with both sides unable to hold the ball for longer than a few seconds. Kempston were definitely up for the challenge and showed their stronger physical side to win the ball in the middle of the park during these early exchanges.  With 15 minutes gone the game began to fall into Sawbo control and a shot from Carlye Stein warmed the hands of Gemma Garner in the Kempston goal who just managed to turn the ball over the bar for a corner. From the corner Ann Anstey was fed the ball just outside the edge of the box and she unleashed a superb effort that  clipped the cross bar and went over for a goal kick, seconds later it was Jackie Stott who shot from the edge of the box only to see the ball hit the underside of the bar and down onto the goal line with Garner quickest to gather the ball to stop a goal being scored. This early pressure finally earned its reward when Stott was fed by Clare Halfpenny and she drove the ball into the top corner on 22 minutes. Being a goal down Kempston raised their game but Sawbow were defending from the front and Kempston were unable to get into a decent scoring position. On 40 minutes Sawbo were unlucky not to increase their lead when Claire Poulton found Judith Duffin who fired just wide. Once again Sawbo were given the opportunity to extend their lead when Stott found herself 1 on 1 with the keeper just inside the box but her shot was parried round the post for a corner.

The second half started in a different manner as Kempston came out looking to get the goal back and they started to win the midfield battle that Sawbo had controlled during the first period.  Winning the midfield was by putting 2 players on the impressive Stott when she had the ball and moving to Anstey when she had the ball to stop the influential pair the opportunity to play the ball forward.  On 70 minutes once again it looked as of Sawbo may get the extra goal that their endeavors deserved but again the final shot from Carlye Stein went just over the bar. With the game looking as if it would end with just the one goal being scored Sawbo were dealt a killer blow with just 4 minutes remaining. A tentative ball was played high into the Sawbo defensive area and Nicky Clifford just failed to control the dropping ball and it was bundled into the net for a scrappy goal by Tracey Kup-Ferroth for the equaliser. The game finished with Sawbo still looking for the winning goal but ruing the chances missed in the first half which could and should have put the game beyond the reach on Kempston.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Halfpenny, C.Poulton, J.Duffin   Subs used: J.Frost, J.Pyne

24-01-06

The Football Association has passed a rule that will affect any players who are currently looking to start playing open age football next season who would normally be eligable to play as they would be 14 years old by September 1st. Starting next season 2006/2007 players will have to have attained the age of 15 years by September 1st to be able to play,  and for the 2007/2008 season they will have to have attained the age of 16 years of age before they can play. This rule is apparently being placed accross the board so that boys as well as girls will have to abide by the same rule.

22-01-06

Godmanchester Rovers   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 2

This away fixture is never an easy game and because of the earlier defeat in the league by Sawbo Godmanchester were going to be after revenge so even more reason to play a controlled game where passing and movement were the tactics rather than the early ball. With Hannah Fraser, Jo Gregory both injured with ankle injuries and Judith Duffin still sidelined with Tendonitis of the knee the squad had once again to call up the services of Charlotte Turner from the reserves to allow a full compliment of 11 players for this game.

It was hoped that an early goal would settle the Robins but try as they might the goal would not come. The early pressure came from the visitors as they passed the ball around with ease trying to gain that space required to fire a shot goal ward but to no avail as the home side held firm. The first half saw the Sawbow play most of the football in the Godmanchester half although there were the odd scare as Godmanchester broke free but the superb defensive work of xox and Robyn McFayden held firm. It was not until after some 5 minutes of Godmanchester pressure that the first goal came. Clare Halfpenny broke up the Goddy attack and played the ball to Laura Day who fed Turner in the box who calmly controlled the ball and then fired it home under Anna Holder in the Godmanchester goal for the opening goal on 41 minutes. Two minutes later Gaynor Fisher fired a cross into the box and Day was unlucky to see her first time shot go just wide of the near post.

As expected the second half saw Godmanchester come out of the defensive mode that they had adopted in the first half as the tried to get back on level terms, although the defensive line up of the Robins have not conceded a goal in the league for some 6 games so the task was a daunting one. Then on 50 minutes a corner won by Sawbo saw Jackie Stott deliver a perfect ball into the six yard box where xox had stole in unmarked to head the ball home. from this moment on there was only going to be one winner of the game as Sawbridgeworth Town shut up shop. Hopefully the injuries to Duffin and Fraser will be cleared up in time for the visit of Kempston Rovers next weekend as Fisher (Thigh) may be doubtful.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, C.Halfpenny, G.Fisher, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Stein, L.Day, C.Turner

15-01-06

Sawbridgeworth Town    v    Stevenage Borough   1 - 0

This was billed as one of the top of the table clashes as with Stevenage with 2 games in hand to their host today should they win then they had the upper hand as we approach the last part of the season. But if Sawbo could get the result it would mean that The Robins would put an 8 point gap between the two sides and that may be a little to much to claw back over the coming weeks.

Sawbow started the game without regular Hannah Fraser who turned an ankle during mid-week fitness training and along with Judith Duffin who was still out with Tendonitis of the knee there had to be for the second week running two reserve team members who came into the squad as substitutes. Jackie Frost and Charlotte Turner had the honors this week. Clare Halfpenny was playing her first game back after shin splints for the first eleven and Robyn McFayden was back in the heart of the defence after last weeks unavailability.

The game started with a gusto as both teams pushed forward with earnest. The first 5 minutes was almost a blur as the ball and play went from end to end but both defenses were strong and stalwart in the endeavors. There was not much of goal mouth efforts but the football being played was enthralling, two efforts of note were from Carlye Stein and Laura Day who both fired goal bound shots only to see desperate defending on the edge of the six yard box which saved the day, It was almost like a game of chess as each side battled to get the upper hand. Then Sawbo were dealt a blow when Gaynor Fisher had to be replaced on 30 minutes by Charlotte Turner as Fisher pulled her quad muscle sprinting for the ball. The first half finished with both teams contesting each and every ball which was a great advert for the fitness of both teams.

The second half started again with both teams contesting the ball but as tiredness began to enter parts of the game a few more free kicks were being awarded to both sides. When Sawbo were awarded a direct free kick about 22 yards diagonally from goal on the corner of the box Jackie Stott drove the ball towards goal and Rosie Milbrow in the Stevenage goal managed to get her hands to the ball but could only palm the ball into the inside side netting for the opening goal on 56 minutes. At this time Sawbo were just about on top but not totally as Stevenage would not bow down. Again they came and a shot from Katie light slipped past the post with Sawbo keeper Debbie Williams watching carefully. With about 10 minutes left Sawbo began a last push which resulted in a Stott volley firing over the bar and a Stein effort which Milbrow collected easily. Overall a game that Sawbo just about deserved to win but only just, as Stevenage contested all the game and showed why they will be there or there about come the end of the season.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, C.Halfpenny, J.Gregory, A.Anstey, J.Stott, G.Fisher, C.Stein, L.Day    Subs used: J.Frost, C.Turner.

14-01-06

Check out the new addition to the site.

I have been able to assemble the full set of programmes so far this season and I have added them to the site for you to access. They are in PDF format so you should be able to read them from any computer. If you access the Tables page you will see a button that has been added to the top right of the page click this and then select which programme you wish to download or just read.

10-01-06

As some of you will remember at the start of last season we lost Emma Laing to New Zealand as she emigrated for a new life. Well you could not stop her from playing football so she signed on for a local club called New Brighton AFC. Emma currently plays for the second eleven and as their season has just started they are sitting like us second in their league. Emma's club have a website and here is the link for those who want to have a nose around.  www.newbrightonafc.com Sawbo are listed as one of her previous clubs (I bet they said who!!!)

08-01-06

Cottenham United   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 1

After almost three weeks without a game the Robins travelled to Cottenham for this first league game of 2006 not knowing if the layoff would stop the momentum from the previous year.

On a cold and wet January Sunday the first 20 minutes of this game saw both teams trying to gain the upper hand. A titanic midfield battle ebbed and flowed for almost the entire first 45 minutes with very little goal mouth action. Chances were few and far between but Sawbo finished the half with just a slightly better possession percentage. There were some mistimed tackles from the Cottenham team that left several of the Sawbo players nursing bruises but the football still flowed.

The second half started well for the visitors as it seemed the half time stoppage helped Sawbo more than it did Cottenham. Sawbo were sharper to the ball crisper in the tackle and more precise in the passing and it showed after just 1 minute of the half when Nicky Clifford found Laura Day in front of her marker and as she received the ball her turn and shot saw the ball nestle into the back of the net for the opening goal. As is the case this goal lifted Sawbo but for the next few minutes it floundered Cottenham and with this slack response Sawbo edged further ahead on possession and started to play some superb football. Twice in as many minutes Sawbo had the ball on the flank and the cross along the ground across the six yard box only needed the slightest of touches to put the game out of reach of Cottenham but twice the ball just eluded the feet of the Sawbo players and the ball was cleared to safety. Joanne Gregory was replaced by Claire Poulton with 29 minutes left to play and almost had her name on the score sheet with almost her first touch of the game. With just a minute left to play a corner was floated into the near post by Jackie Stott and it was met by Carlye Stein who headed with power just over the bar. Poulton who with Jessica Pyne had been promoted for the game from Sawbo reserves as Judith Duffin (Tendonitis of the Knee) and Robyn McFayden (family commitment) were not available for the game. Both Pyne and Poulton showed they had no problem in stepping up to the first team and both played with understanding and commitment.

At the end of the game Sawbo can feel a little aggrieved that they did not win by more than the 1 - 0 result as they had almost dominated the second half.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, H.Fraser, J.Pyne, J.Gregory, A.Anstey, J.Stott, G.Fisher, C.Stein, L.Day.  Sub used: C.Poulton

18-12-05

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Kings Sports   1 - 0

With only 8 goals conceded in the league this season and 3 of those were conceded against Kings Sports earlier in the season this game took on a different mode as Sawbo looked to avenge the early season defeat. On a pitch that was passed fit but only just the game was to turn out to be a testament to the qualities of ladies football which saw a tremendous amount of good competitive football on a surface that was almost an ice rink.

Pre match instruction stressed that if as a club we wanted to press for a promotion place at the end of the season this game was a must win as Kings were the only club so far this season to beat us in the league and that it was time to get our own back. Bringing into this game a 270 minute clean sheet situation it was hoped that the new confidence would continue and we could look to the Christmas break with a smile on our faces.

Sawbo took control very early in this match and on a good flat pitch but because of the weather poor footing  both sides took a while to adjust. The Robins  mastered the conditions better and were putting Kings under constant pressure and from a resultant free kick Jackie Stott strode up and guided the ball over the defensive line to Judith Duffin who controlled the ball and shot past the diving hands of the kings keeper and into the far corner to give the home side a very well deserved early lead on 5 minutes. The game ebbed and flowed in and around the centre third with Sawbo gaining more of the ball but could not penetrate the defensive line up that kings had adopted, and when they did the Kings keeper Hannah Biddel was there to catch the ball. This pressure continued throughout the first half but further goals would not come.

After the interval Sawbow continued where they left off gaining more of the possession but failing to breach the defensive lock that Kings had in front of goal. Try as they might chances were few and far between but Laura Day and Jo Gregory battled throughout up front to try and engineer an opening but to no avail. In the heart of the midfield Ann Anstey was constantly driving forward and was constantly challenged. Jackie Stott was voted player of the match by Kings and her tireless competitive performance somehow kept the belief alive that Sawbo would score again before the end. The game ended with Sawbo still attacking and trying to get another goal and Kings defending in numbers to keep them out.

Sawbow now look forward to the Christmas break so as to recharge the batteries before the games restart in January 2006

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, N.xox, H.Fraser, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Stein. J.Gregory, L.Day 

07-12-05

Charlotte has a change of heart.

For reasons that I am still not sure of Charlotte Turner has decided that she would like to retract her request for a transfer to Saffron Walden Town. Charlotte turned up for training as usual tonight and at the end asked if the transfer forms could be torn up as she wants to stay with the Robins. Everyone is pleased with her decision as she is a superb talent that we as a club would like to keep, as the future of the club is with the youth players and especially those with the skill to keep the club going forward.

04-12-05

Arlesey Town   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 5

There are always fixtures that you look forward to from the start of the season and this is one of them. Arlesey Town have by far the best facilities in the Division if not the league as a whole, and it is always a pleasure to be able to play football as it should be played along the ground on a pitch that will allow you to do so. Added to this is the fact that all the previous games between these two sides have always been competitive it is a mouth watering fixture to look forward to.

Sawbow started the brighter and were able to win the ball and keep it in the Arlesey half for long periods. In fact it was not until the 20th  minute of the game that Arlesey had their first real attack on the Sawbo goal. Although Sawbo had had much more of the possession the final shot was missing but on 22 minutes Jackie Stott found Judith Duffin on the right flank who cut in and drove the ball goal ward only to see her shot rebound off the keeper and out to Jo Gregory who shot instinctively towards goal only to see it kicked off the line and away. Two minutes later the pressure got its rewards when a through ball found Gaynor Fisher who calmly opened the scoring for Sawbo. More and more pressure was being put on the Arlesey defence and credit must be given to them for their work in keeping out a rampant Sawbo side. On 34 minutes Stott fired the ball towards goal but Arlesey keeper Emma Chamberlin was proving to be  a hard player to beat as she saved comfortably. The same scenario happened some 2 minutes later when Hannah Fraser fed Gregory who was clear and through on goal only to see Chamberlain again on her toes to save the goal bound shot. Possibly the best goal of the game came just before the break as Fraser collected the ball and ran forward some 25 yards before laying it in the path of Fisher who almost one touched it to Laura Day who was able to side foot her marker and calmly drive the ball over the advancing Chamberlain for Sawbo to end the half deservedly 2 - 0 to the good.

As expected Arlesey upped their game at the start of the second half and Sawbo were on the back foot for the first time in the game so far. Arlesey were quicker to every ball and it seemed that they had woke up from their first half slumber and were now making a fight of it. Sawbo managed just a couple of sound attacks during this period when on 55 minutes Fisher drove straight at the keeper and then again on 60 minutes a three man move saw Duffin and Ann Anstey link up to feed Stott who shot just wide of the upright. Sawbo at this point managed to get back to winning the ball in midfield and on 75 minutes against the current run of play Fraser found Gregory who laid the ball to Day who scored her second and Sawbo's third. 10 minutes later a free kick saw Stott float the ball into the box where it was cleared but only to Duffin who fired the ball in and Chamberlain managed to get to the ball and parry it across goal where it was cleared off the line. A minute later Day got her hat trick when she had the easiest of chances from a cross from Duffin to side foot the ball home with the keeper for once beaten by the quality of the cross. Stott wrapped up a very good afternoons work when she latched onto the end of a move started by Fisher that found Day free who laid it into the path of Stott to drive home.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, J.Stott, G.Fisher, J.Gregory, L.Day

02-12-05

Charlotte Turner says goodbye.

Yesterday was a sad day as I was asked by Charlotte Turner to grant her a transfer to Saffron Walden Town. Saffron Walden play in Division One of the Essex League with a reserves team playing in Division Two and Charlotte sees the move as a step up as she has wants and has been been promised first team football which so far this season has not been the case here at Sawbridgeworth. After discussions with Michy Wood her manager it was reluctantly agreed to let Charlotte go with our blessing. Charlotte started her ladies football involvement with us and we have seen her grow into the player she is now and should the move not turn out as she hopes she has been told that the door is always open for her to return. I am sure all the sqaud will wish her well with her new club (unless they play against us)

27-11-05

Sawbridgeworth Town  v   Godmanchester Rovers   4 - 0

The past couple of weeks has seen Sawbridgeworth not quite at the races so as to speak as although performances have been acceptable the overall outcome has seen a defeat in the League Cup a win against a depleted Huntingdon and a lackluster defeat against Garston in The Herts County Cup. So today was a chance for the Robins to claw back some pride against the side that knocked them out of the cup just a couple of weeks ago.

The first ten minutes saw both side take advantage of each other with both teams having half chances but neither keeper was really challenged in this opening period. The next 25 -30 minutes saw the visitors edge the play and it was during this period of play that from a superb forward pass from Robyn McFayden which found Judith Duffin who slipped past the defender and drove the ball over the diving Rovers keeper and into the net for the opening goal. Although both sets of players kept up the challenge Godmanchester can feel a little down as on the first half display they certainly deserved to be level.

The second half stared with a flourish as within 2 minutes of the restart a flowing move saw Jo Gregory find Carlye Stein who quickly passed it to Ann Anstey who drove the ball goal ward only to see it clip he inside of the right upright after beating the keeper and cannon across goal where Laura Day had anticipated the ball and was on hand to side foot the ball home for Sawbow's second. With the pressure off Sawbow started to play instinctive football and as a result the third goal was crafted and Duffin got her second and Sawbow's third on 55 minutes. Sawbow allowed their shape to falter slightly after this goal and this gave Godmanchester a glimpse of a chance to get back into the game as Debbie Williams had to make a couple of saves to keep the score sheet at zero. Sawbo settled again after this and from a corner on 75 minutes Robyn McFayden scored her first goal for the club  and Sawbow's fourth to wrap up a very good afternoons work. 

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, J.Duffin, L.Day, J.Gregory

Sub Used: G.Fisher

20-11-05

Herts County Cup 2nd Round

Garston   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   2 - 0

Hoping to progress in this competition Sawbo traveled to Bushey, Nr Watford for this second round County Cup game against Garston Ladies. Garston can boast a final defeat against Watford in last seasons final of this competition so it was going to be a close game op paper against Sawbridgeworth Town this season.

Right from the first kick of the ball Garston were deep into the Sawbo half but the ball eventually went out for a Sawbo throw. With Sawbo having to promote three reserve team players for this game as xox (work) Clare Halfpenny (shin splints) Natalie Till (Back) Gaynor Fisher and Kelly Mullender (unwell) all unavailable the squad had to be reshaped from the start with Jess Pyne taking over at left back with Hannah Fraser moving to centre back with Robyn McFayden. On 3 minutes the worst possible outcome happened when Garston took the lead after the ball was lost on the Sawbo left and the ball was played into the middle of the penalty box where it was met and duly dispatched into the net. Then on 20 minutes McFayden was forced to tackle on the edge of the box and the referee deemed it a foul and awarded a free kick. A well placed free kick was superbly turned around the right hand post by Debbie Williams in the Sawbo goal. All this time the Robins were getting back into the game and were starting to make inroads into the Garston midfield, as the half progressed the visitors were slowing having more of the ball and on 37 minutes a Judith Duffin shot just glided past the left upright for a goal kick. Another Duffin run  down the flank saw a vicious tackle that left it's mark on Duffin's right ankle and the name of the Garston attacker in the book as a yellow card was produced. It was then down the other end of the park as Garston broke quickly and again Williams was off her line quickly to stop and save again. This first half ended as an end to end struggle as both teams attempted to get the upper hand. Garston were by far the  more physical side and the intimidation of the management team did little to promote the game of women's football.

Garston made three substitutions at the interval and the fresh legs told right from the start as Garston were now able to win back the midfield that had been lost at the end of the first half. Although Sawbo were being made to chase the ball when they did get the ball it looked probable that an opportunity could be produced but the final pass was a little short. As the game became more open, both side searched for the next goal and more and more space was being exploited. A hasty clearance gave Garston a corner and as the ball was floated into the six yard box it fell just right for the Garston striker to bundle the ball over the line for their second on 72 minutes. Sawbo came close to getting a goal back when Joanne Gregory was found in the box and her glancing header just eluded the far post. The referee had to speak to the Garston manager to ask him to keep quiet as he was more than general in his comments over the game to the official. Sawbo were beaten by at times the better side on the day but also a side with a stronger and more physical approach to the game that the Sawbo players found outside the spirit of the game.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, J.Pyne, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, J.Stott, C.Stein, J.Gregory, L.Day.

Subs Used: C.Poulton    Sub Not used: C.Turner.

13-11-05

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Huntingdon Town   5 - 0

This was the second league meeting between these two sides this season with Sawbridgeworth Town ahead on points with a 9-0 victory against a dogged 8 players when the sides met at Huntingdon. Huntingdon arrived at Crofters not much better off  with regard to players than last time  as they could only manage 9 players this time around.

Understandably the early pressure was from the home side and on 2 minutes a corner from the Sawbo right saw xox head over after losing her marker on the edge of the 6 yard box. Almost immediately after this Sawbo were on the attack again and this time Gaynor Fisher fired over from just inside the penalty box. Then on 5 minutes Laura Day fired over after being released by Jackie Stott. Then on 20 minutes a poor goal kick clearance fell to Stott who again fed Day and again the same outcome saw the ball floating over the cross bar. With all this pressure it was becoming almost a burden as Sawbo failed time and again to breach the Huntingdon goal which was being looked after by the Huntingdon player of the match Anna Parks. The opening goal came from a free kick awarded in the Sawbo half which found Day clear and running towards goal, as Parks advanced towards Day, Day calmly chipped the ball over the outstretched hands and into the net for a well deserved opening goal. 6 minutes later as we reached the 35 minute spot another corner saw Stott fire the ball into the box where xox made amends for her opening miss by coolly heading the ball with power into the back of the net. Just before the half time whistle a poor clearance from  Parks fell to Day who advanced and placed the ball under the keeper for her second of the game and Sawbo's third.

The second half was much the same as the first with a determined Sawbo side looking for more goals but keeping their starting shape. One of the best moves of the game saw the ball moved from right to left and back again before Day found Joanne Gregory on the edge of the box who unleashed a superb volley that crashed against the cross bar and away. It was not until the 81st minute that the Robins were able to increase their lead when Stott again became provider for Day who again shot the ball under the advancing Parks for her hat trick and Sawbow's 4th. Sawbridgeworth wrapped up a convincing win when just before the final whistle a rasping 25yard shot hit the top corner of the net while still rising from the right foot of Sawbo's player of the match Jackie Stott.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, G.Fisher, J.Gregory, L.Day

Sub used: K.Mullender.

06-11-05

League Cup 1st Round

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Godmanchester Rovers    0 - 1

As this was a cup game Sawbridgeworth altered their usual system of play to a more containing line up but the outcome was not what was expected. After just 5 minutes Debbie Williams in the Sawbo goal made a diving save at the feet of Godmanchester's Sarah Mansfield and Rovers having much the better of this first period with the slope and wind in their favour were putting the Sawbo midfield and back line under pressure. On 22 minutes a free kick was awarded to Rovers about 22 yards out Mansfield strode up and fired the ball goal ward and on the very wet surface the ball skidded and bounced awkwardly and Williams could only get fingers to it as it spun past her and into the net for the opening goal. From this moment on the game took on a frantic motion as each side tried to get control and with the weather degrading as the game continued the game also took on a different attitude.

The second half saw the Sawbridgeworth side more determined and with the slope in their favour there were great preiods of time spent in the Rovers half but the final shot on goal was not testing enough. With the weather deteriorating as the game continued vast swathes of water was now laying on the pitch and although the ball was still moving across the water it was becomoing more and morte difficult to pass or move the ball with accuracy. Overall Sawbridgeworth can count themselves unlucky not to have at least got the game level but in the end the winner was the weather. A torrential 40 minutes rain storm prveneted what could have been a very entertaining encounter that both teams gave everything to play in. The game was abandoned after 85 minutes due the the pitch becoming unplayable because of the water on the pitch.

Squad: D,Williams, H.Fraser, N.xox, R.McFayden, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, C.Stein, J.Stott, J.Gregory, L.Day, G.Fisher.

Subs used: C.Halfpenny, N.Clifford

30-10-05

Kettering Town   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   3 - 3

Sawbo travelled to Kettering who are sitting second in the league table knowing that only a good performance would keep the momentum going in the chase for a top spot come the end of the season. Kettering had scored with ease in many of their earlier games and started the game with a plus 28 goal difference with only 6 games played. Sawbo on the other hand a plus 14 goal difference having played 6 games.

Sawbo were out of the blocks very quickly and within a minute nearly had the ball in the back of the net but just managed to miss the target over the bar. More pressure and again a good forward move resulted in an attempt at goal that the Kettering keeper saved well. 15 minutes into the game and Kettering started to exert their own pressure and Sawbo had to work hard in the middle of the park to stop the Kettering advance. The first half finished with the scores level but on the run of play Sawbridgeworth could quite easily had come in at 2-0 to the good

The second half was a different affair as Kettering were now playing against the very blustery conditions and adopted the quick passing along the ground method of play which was in direct contrast to the first half. While Sawbo were still coming to terms with adjusting to the conditions Kettering were getting into their stride and at times were making Sawbo chase shadows. A mixture of good football and poor marking allowed Kettering to get the first goal and it seemed as Sawbo were analyzing the reasons for the first goal Kettering scored a second goal. Prior to these goals Sawbow keeper Debbie Williams was kicked in the head as she dived at the feet of a Kettering forward. Obviously still a little shaken the two quick goals certainly brought Williams back to life and she made a superb save just after. Some 5 minutes later it was 3 - 0 to Kettering as some quick passing allowed the shot to hit the back of the net on 65 minutes. Surprisingly Sawbo had not played badly to be 3 goals down at this time as it seemed to be a mixture of bad luck and poor finishing that did not give the visitors goals in the first place. This third goal certainly picked Sawbo up and they then put an onslaught of pressure on the home side defence and from a corner xox ran clear into the six yard box and converted into the top of the net to make the score 3 - 1 on 70 minutes. 8 minutes later it was 3 -2 as Laura Day was fed the ball down the left channel and she evaded her marker to lay the ball into the path of Gaynor Fisher who side footed the ball into the net to bring the scores back to a 1 goal deficit. With just 4 minutes left on the clock plus any injury time Sawbo had won yet another corner and as substitute Jackie Stott  took the corner Clare Halfpenny rose and glanced the ball past the keeper for a much deserved equaliser. With this Kettering sprung to life and won a corner and as the ball was cleared the referee blew for time. It seemed that the whistle blew with no added time for injuries which was at least another 3 minutes due to the head injury to Williams but in the end, the final result reflected the game.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, C.Halfpenny, J.Duffin, C.Stein, A,Anstey, K.Mullender, G.Fisher, L.Day

Subs used: J.Gergory, J.Stott

23-10-05

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Hitchin Hearts   3 - 0

Hitchin travelled to Sawbridgeworth without a point on the table but have managed to score in every game so far this season so although they have been beaten well they still have got a sting in their tail to score when the odds have been against them. under new management and with new players Hitchin are still struggling to find any form that resembled their end of season run last term.

Hitchin were out quick and within the first minute had  made Debbie Williams in the Sawbo goal dive to her right to save. The ball went straight down the other end and Amie Faige in the Hitchin goal was on hand to stop the ball crossing the line three times as the ball bounced about in the Hitchin 6 yard box as Kelly Mullender, Carlye Stein and Laura Day all fired the ball goal ward. Sawbo were beginning to take off and  a cross from Jo Gregory found Stein who shot over the bar. The rest of the half saw Sawbridgeworth keep winning the midfield battle and getting the ball into the final third  but a blend of fine goalkeeping from Faige and inadequate shooting from Sawbo found the scores level but with Sawbo definitely ahead on points.

Within 5 minutes of the restart Stein was replaced by Judith Duffin and her pace was instrumental in the opening goal. Winning the ball about 10 yards from the penalty box she evaded her marker with ease and crossed for Day to finish to put the home side 1.0 up. Some 5 minutes later Jackie Stott who had worked tirelessly in the center of midfield with player of the match Ann Anstey found Duffin with a neat cross field ball and Duffin again beat her marker and fired the ball into the net for the second goal. All this time Hitchin were trying to get hold of the ball and although they did on several occasions the penetration gained was quickly snuffed out as Sawbow's defensive lineup held firm. It was not until the 85 minute that Sawbow finally put the opposition out of sight when Stott won the ball on the edge of the box and after a couple of strides took her into the box she fired the ball inside the near post for the home side to end the game with a clean sheet and 3 goals to the good.

Squad: D.Williams, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, C.Halfpenny, C.Stein, A.Anstey, J.Stott, K.Mullender, J.Gregory, L.Day

Subs used: J.Duffin, G.Fisher

16-10-05

Herts County Cup 1st Round

Bushey Rangers   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   0 - 3

The first round of the Herts County Cup has not always been a good day for Sawbo as for the last few seasons a first round draw against London Colney has seen the Robins fall at the first hurdle but today the only game in the first round saw Sawbo travel to Bushey and produce a solid and controlled performance that secures their progress into the second round against Garston Ladies.

Bushey started with a rush and the first few minutes were in control of the ball but Sawbo slowly got the upper hand and were winning the ball in the middle third at ease. The first attempt on goal came from a free kick down the right as Jackie Stott fired the ball towards goal only to see it frantically cleared. More pressure and eventually the Bushey defence gave away another corner and from the kick Hannah Fraser netted her first goal for the club with a neat back header on 21 minutes. Sawbo extended their lead on 26 minutes when under pressure in the box a Bushey defender handled the ball and gave away a penalty. Jackie Stott duly converted the spot kick to extend the lead for the visitors. With just a minute of the half remaining it looked as if Sawbo would get another goal as the Bushey defence were forced into as back pass to their keeper inside the box. Unfortunately the ball was cleared quite easily and the half ended with a 2-0 advantage to the visitors.

After the interval Sawbow started to play the ball around with a little more conviction and were creating chance after chance. Judith Duffin who had throughout the first half tormented the home defence with her speed down the flank kept up the onslaught and on 52 minutes was instrumental in starting the move that saw Laura Day control the ball on her chest and as the ball dropped she volleyed the ball with power onto the cross bar. 4 minutes later the ball again fell to Day who shot across the keeper but agonizingly wide of the far post. Next it was Jo Gregory playing in a forward role for this game who's shot just eluded the goal. It was not until the 85th minute that saw a neat move down the right flank that started with Gaynor Fisher feeding Duffin who ran with the ball past the Bushey defender and crossed the ball into the box for Day to side foot the ball into the net for Sawbo's third. With the pressure now at full throttle Sawbo were again denied by the woodwork as Carlye Stein shot hit the upright.

The final result a 3 0 win to Sawbridgeworth Town did not reflect the overall performance of the Robins who dominated for 80 minutes and just did not score the goals to show their just rewrds.

Squad: D.Williams, G.Fisher, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, C.Halfpenny, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, J.Stott, K.Mullender, J.Gregory. L.Day

Subs used: C.Stien, N.Clifford

09-10-05

Sawbridgeworth Town   v   Cottenham United   1 - 1

Sawbo started in a much more controlled and slower manner than of late and although the passing was better the tempo allowed Cottenham into the game and on 3 minutes were dealt a blow when a free kick was conceded on the right about 8 - 10 yards outside the box. Cottenham's Claire Hall strode up and drove the ball just under the cross bar and into the net for the visitors to go one up. Shaken and stirred by this Sawbo began to take a firmer hold on the game and although not creating many chances were winning the midfield battle. On 15 minutes Sawbo were unlucky not to be level when a great cross from the right eluded the front pair of Gaynor Fisher and Judith Duffin by inches. More pressure by the home side and when Fisher was put through on goal and she calmly put the ball into the net for the equaliser the home side were elated, but then it was seen that an offside flag had been raised and the goal was disallowed. 2 minutes later Sawbo captain and central defender xox had to be replaced as she suffered a thigh / groin strain, a reshuffle of the squad saw Hannah Fraser take xox's place Clare Halfpenny took the left back slot Carlye Stein went from central midfield to left midfield and sub Jackie Stott entered the game at central midfield. Stott took immediate effect and she released Duffin who shot over, Then just before the half time whistle Nicky Clifford overlapped and sent a cross to Fisher who was just beaten to the ball by Cottenham keeper Tracey Ware-Lane who up till now had had a superb game.

The second half started with Sawbo certainly looking for an equalizing goal with efforts from Fisher, Duffin, Ann Anstey, and a superb effort from Jo Gregory all being denied by the inform Ware-Lane in the Cottenham goal. Jackie Frost who was between the sticks was an almost bystander for Sawbo as she had little to do as the outfield players were constantly trying to get the game level. On 58 minutes Sawbo were forced to change again as a head injury to Nicky Clifford left her with a possible broken nose after a coming together of heads in an attempt to head the ball away. Laura Day entered the game with Fisher taking over at right back and again an immediate effect took shape as Day had several half chances  created by her own desire to get on the score sheet. The difference between the sides was not the overall play but the performance of the Cottenham keeper who was voted player of the match as far as the opposition was concerned. Playing the last minute of the 11 minutes added because of the injuries and other time elapsed reasons Sawbow were awarded a free kick on the left side of the box. It was to be the last effort that could bring the scores level and it was left to Jackie Stott to take control. Stott drove a swerving dipping shot into the top right corner of the goal for a well deserved equaliser. The game had barely enough time to restart when the final whistle blew. 

Squad: J.Frost, N.Clifford, N.xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, J.Gergory, A.Anstey, C.Stein, C.Halfpenny, G.Fisher, J.Duffin.   

Subs used: J.Stott, L.Day

02-10-05

Kings Sports   v   Sawbridgeworth Town   3 - 1

This was a fixture that the management of Sawbridgeworth looked upon as a game that could be won in our quest to finish at the top of the table come next May. The early season results and performances led to this thought but the final outcome was far from that.

The game started with both teams vying for possession in the middle of the park and eventually Sawbo took hold. Playing the ball around on the floor with almost every player getting a touch saw the visitors in control and it seemed just a matter of time before a goal would be produced and Sawbow would be in the lead.  Ann Anstey had been playing very well, getting in telling challenges and winning the ball in the middle of the park and she was becoming a major influence in midfield. On 22 minutes Anstey failed to get up after a challenge (injury to Achilles area) and had to be replaced by Carlye Stein. For the next couple of minutes Sawbo had to regroup and with this came the opening goal as Stein was fed the ball and she lobbed the keeper from just outside the penalty box. This goal should have lifted Sawbow for them to go onward and upward but for some reason it gave this lift to Kings Sports. The front two of Kings Pili Huertas and Kim Atkinson became more involved and when Huertas spun and shot home from the edge of the box the scores were now level and Sawbow seemed not to have any answer. The remaining 15 minutes was a catalogue of mishaps as the referee failed to take control of both sets of players. There was no aggressive behavior from either side but his decisions left a lot to be desired as both sides were left asking questions as to his actions. Robyn McFayden became one on one with Huertas as she attacked the Sawbo goal and as Huertas tried to side step McFayden she left a trailing leg which allowed Huertas to trip in the box and a penalty was awarded and converted to make it 2 - 1 to the home side. Just before the break Megan Scrivener of Kings made it 3 - 1.

After a long discussion Sawbow entered the fray with more determination to get the goals back and a more determined approach seemed to upset the referee who gave every 50 50 tackle to the home side. Try as they might Sawbow could not get the goals their play deserved as time and again the Kings defensive line was cut open but for last ditch tackles and saves by the keeper kept the score the same. More indecision by the referee incensed xox and it then seemed as if every tackle by xox was then given as a foul to the opposition even when the ball was taken cleanly. To save further persecution from the referee xox was substituted and replaced by Clare Halfpenny, also at this time Kelly Mullender replaced Jo Gregory who had put everything into her game. Delaying tactics also by the home side and the failure by the referee to keep the game flowing by allowing injuries to ankles and feet to be fully treated on the pitch for some 3 minutes when usually the players and physio's are asked to leave the field of play within 1 minute.

No more goals were scored and the game generally was played in a good spirit. But for the referee the game would have flowed and who knows the result might have been closer.

Squad: J.Frost, N.Clifford, xox, R.McFayden, H.Fraser, J.Duffin, A.Anstey, J.Stott, J.Gregory, G.Fisher, L.Day

Subs used: C.Halfpenny, K.Mullender, C.Stein

25-09-05

Women's FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round

Sawbridgeworth Town   v  Whitehawk    2 - 4

Sawbow started quickly and was applying early pressure on the Hawks defence but Whitehawk responded by putting their own pressure on Debbie Williams and on 2 minutes Hawks Kate Baker hit over the bar from 12 yards. 2 minutes later it was Baker again and she pulled the ball in from the left flank and shot wide. After this early pressure the game settled a little and Sawbo then got the break with a corner on 9 minutes . Jackie Stott floated the ball into the box and after a few attempts Gaynor Fisher had the last kick to put the ball over the line for Sawbow to go one up. It was some 10 minutes later that Whitehawk drew level when Cath Tomlin struck a curling shot form the left of the box over Williams and into the goal. This goal lifted Whitehawk who were now a little quicker to every ball but Sawbow were not to be denied as they kept to their task . On 28 minutes a foul conceded by Whitehawk on the left edge of the box saw Jackie Stott float the ball high into the goal mouth wh