Women's Soccer Scene

20 Celebrating 20 seasons covering ALL the Women’s Leagues across the country…

Volume 20 Issue no. 1

22nd August 2019

THE WEEKLY MAGAZINE DEDICATED TO WOMEN’S AND GIRLS FOOTBALL

* Melissa to the fore as Villa stage second half fightback * British clubs discover Champions League opponents * We talk to BECCA WAKELY of Exeter City

(above) Rachael Bowen on the attack for Burgess Hill Town, pursued by Jade Hatcher of Eastbourne Utd (www.jamesprickett.co.uk). (below) Southampton Women’s Hannah Samuels tries to get past Brislington full back Chelsea Heal.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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FAW launch new BE.Football campaign The Football Association of Wales have launched a new campaign ‘BE. Football’ which celebrates and unites all levels of the women & girls’ game in Wales.

‘BE. Football’ aims to challenge perceptions, inspire and give confidence so that women and girls across the game can BE their best self.

The launch event, held at the headquarters of Welsh Premier Women’s League sponsors Orchard in Cardiff, showcased the many opportunities football allows you to be a part of, highlighted by an inspiring guest panel of; Wales international Natasha Harding, Wales Head Coach Jayne Ludlow, Sgorio’s Dylan Ebenezer, FAW Trust Community leader Ayah Abduldaim, ex-Wales international Danny Gabbidon and Penybont Head of Coaching and current UEFA A license candidate, Nia Davies.

FAW Trust Community leader Ayah Abduldaim detailed that: “For me to be a role model in my community, going into schools and engaging with ethnic minorities, getting young girls to join my sessions and participate in physical activity through football, my hope is for them to go back to their schools and local teams to join clubs and continue growing the game.”

On the growth of the national side, Wales International Tash Harding added: “I think people have connected with us showing our team spirit and our togetherness as a group.

Fans can also now see that we are serious football players. For us now, it is about building on that identity and sharing it with those who have supported us from nothing. It is great to see we now have thousands attending our matches and is fantastic that we’ve grown as a nation together.”

A key element of the ‘BE. Football’ campaign is the introduction of a specific women and girls Instagram channel, @BeCymru, aimed at teenage girls and young women. The channel will host a mixture of football and lifestyle content, covering all aspects of the female game, including; the national team players, grassroots football, coaching, referees, fans, in addition to those working and volunteering in the sport.

Head of Women’s and Girls' Football, Lowri Roberts said: “We are really excited to launch this new campaign. We hope that by creating relevant content, which resonates with a teenage audience and bringing to life the personalities within the game, we can encourage more women and girls to play, follow and work within football.”

In order to further drive participation numbers, the FAW Trust are focussing on offering a wider variety of football opportunities for girls in Wales outside of affiliated football.

One of these initiatives is ‘Huddle’, a football programme designed to introduce girls aged 5-12 to football in a fun, friendly and social environment. Each of the 23 Huddle centres will launch across Wales in September 2019 with National team players as ambassadors of the programme.

To keep up to date with the women’s game in Wales, visit BeFootball.Cymru and follow @BeCymru on Instagram.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

Four get first England call Phil Neville has named the England Women’s squad for the forthcoming August and September friendlies against Belgium and Norway.

The 24-player squad will meet up at The FA’s St George’s Park base next week for the first time since their high-profile FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign in France last month.

The Lionesses face Belgium at the Den Dreef Stadium in Leuven on Thursday 29th August (kick off 7:30pm local time, 6:30pm UK). It will be the first meeting between the teams since a 2017 UEFA EURO qualifier at the same venue.

The squad then travel to Bergen to take on their World Cup quarter-final opponents Norway at Brann Stadion on Tuesday 3rd September (kick off 6pm local time, 5pm UK).

Neville has opted for a blend of youth and experience as the Lionesses build towards the home UEFA EURO 2021, naming four senior debutants amongst his squad.

Chelsea’s Bethany England and Manchester City’s Aoife Mannion have been handed their first senior call-ups having both impressed for club and country.

Meanwhile, two of the Young Lionesses’ bronze medal-winning U20 World Cup squad also receive their first senior call ups. Clemson University goalkeeper Sandy MacIver caught Neville’s eye when she was awarded the Golden Glove for her outstanding performances in the 2018 tournament in France.

Defender Anna Patten, a graduate of Arsenal now playing for the University of South Carolina, is the squad’s other debutant, having earned 42 caps at youth level since 2010.

Meanwhile, 19 members of the Lionesses’ FIFA Women’s World Cup squad have been rewarded with call-ups, having reached the semi finals in last month’s tournament which drew record TV viewing figures and unprecedented levels of support for England’s Senior Women.

Neville has opted to rest Jill Scott after her outstanding World Cup campaign in order to manage the Manchester City midfielder’s load ahead of the start of the Barclays FA WSL season. Fellow World Cup team mates Ellen White and Karen Bardsley miss out due to injury.

The Belgium and Norway games mark the first step in preparations for UEFA EURO 2021, which will be played at nine venues across England. As the host nation, the Lionesses do not have to qualify for the final tournament. Those on view against Belgium and Norway will also hope to stake an early claim for inclusion in the Team GB squad for the 2020 Olympics.

Those wishing to travel to Belgium or Norway should note The FA has an allocation of seats exclusively for England fans, available to Lionesses Supporters Club members. Visit TheFA.com/joinlsc ENGLAND SQUAD v. NORWAY & BELGIUM NAME Mary EARPS Sandy MacIVER Ellie ROEBUCK Carly TELFORD Millie BRIGHT Rachel DALY Alex GREENWOOD Steph HOUGHTON Aoife MANNION Abbie McMANUS Anna PATTEN Demi STOKES Leah WILLIAMSON Lucy BRONZE Jade MOORE Lucy STANIFORTH Georgia STANWAY Keira WALSH Toni DUGGAN Beth ENGLAND Fran KIRBY Beth MEAD Nikita PARRIS Jodie TAYLOR

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

CLUB Manchester Utd Clemson University Manchester City Chelsea Chelsea Houston Dash Olympique Lyonnais Manchester City Manchester City Manchester Utd Univ of South Carolina Manchester City Arsenal Olympique Lyonnais Reading FC Women Birmingham City Manchester City Manchester City Atletico Madrid Chelsea Chelsea Arsenal Olympique Lyonnais Seattle Reign

CAPS 5 0 2 21 26 27 41 112 0 16 0 54 8 75 50 11 13 20 75 0 45 19 41 46

GOALS 0 0 0 0 1 3 3 13 0 0 0 1 0 8 1 2 1 0 22 0 13 5 13 18

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FA Women’s Championship have made a strong start to the new season in the FA Women's Championship and gave newly promoted a baptism of fire by beating them 5-1 on the opening day of the new campaign.

The Rookettes have been strengthening their squad during the summer with a number of signings, including the arrival of Scotland international striker Zoe Ness, and although she was not on the scoresheet on Sunday, her side took the lead on the half hour through Emma Jones, who has joined from Cardiff City Ladies. Blackburn's response was swift and they replied straight away through Natasha Flint but three minutes after the break, Lewes were back in front thanks to Jess King. Ellie Noble marked her first appearance for the club by scoring twice in quick succession and another new signing, Emily Donovan, rounded off an impressive start for her side with the final goal, four minutes from time. have been consistently amongst the top teams in the second tier over the past few years, and they have started well again this time around, running out 5-1 winners . Megan Bell marked her first appearance for the Wildcats by giving them away to a seventh minute lead but Leicester were back on terms moments later, Libby Smith levelling the scores. Lisa Robertson fired Durham back in front just before the hour mark and Becky Salicki added the third soon afterwards, before a late double from substitute Molly Sharpe completed the scoring for the north east side. produced the comeback of the day as they won 3-2 against . The Blades got off to a great start with Olivia Fergusson and Katie Wilkinson putting them two ahead with goals against their former clubs but Melissa Johnson, also playing against one of her old sides, pulled Villa back into the game just ahead of the break. In the second half, Johnson capped a great fightback from Villa as she brought the scores level and then grabbed the winning goal to complete her hat-trick.

Aston Villa 3 (Johnson 42,54,66) The newly formed Sheffield Utd 2 (Fergusson 10, Wilkinson pen 22) made the short trip across the capital to face and went home with the points after Crystal Palace 0 a 2-0 victory. Grace Neville headed the Lionesses in Coventry Utd 0 front with eight minutes on the clock and both sides had traded chances, they sealed the points early in Leicester City 1 (Smith 8) the second half thanks to a strike from Lucy Durham Women 5 (Bell 7, Robertson 59, Salicki 67, Sharpe 88,89) Fitzgerald. played their first ever match in Lewes 5 (Jones 30, King 48, Noble 75,85, Donovan the Championship and got themselves off the mark 86) as they shared a goalless draw with . Blackburn Rovers 1 (Flint 33) Both teams went close in what was a well contested game but neither could make a breakthrough on London Bees 0 London City Lionesses 2 (Neville 8, Fitzgerald 52) the day and had to settle for a point each.

CHAMPIONSHIP DURHAM WFC LEWES LONDON CITY LIONESSES ASTON VILLA COVENTRY UTD CRYSTAL PALACE SHEFFIELD UTD LONDON BEES BLACKBURN ROVERS LEICESTER CITY CHARLTON ATHLETIC

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

W D 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0

F 5 5 2 3 0 0 2 0 1 1 0

A Pts GD 1 3 4 1 3 4 LEADING SCORERS 0 3 Melissa 2 JOHNSON Aston Villa 2 3 Ellie 1 NOBLE Lewes 0 1 Molly 0 SHARPE Durham Women 0 1 Megan 0 BELL Durham Women 3 0 Emily -1 DONOVAN Lewes 2 0 Olivia -2 FERGUSSON Sheffield Utd 5 0 -4 5 0 -4 0 0 0

3 2 2 1 1 1

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FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division Foxes, on their return to the Northern Premier Division, recorded the largest victory on the opening day of the new season when they won 7-3 away to . Becky McGrother, the Foxes' leading scorer last season, has started off well this time around by finding the net four times, with Shauna Chambers, Rebecca Knight and Charlotte Cooper adding the others. Ellie Tanser, Rachael Ackroyd and Emily Smith were all on target for Hull. made a promising start with a 5-2 victory over . Emily Scarr, Tyler Dodds and Eleanor Dale put 'Boro three ahead at half time, with Rebekah Bass adding a fourth after the break. Forest fought back to reduce the arrears through Precious Hamilton and Isabel Sullivan but Dale Chichester City on the attack against sealed the points for Middlesbrough with her second late on.

Milton Keynes Dons (Sheena Booker). were 3-0 winners against . Alison Hall opened the scoring midway through the first half, with Tanisha Smith making it two just before half time. Roisin Kivel wrapped up the win for Stoke with the third goal, two minutes into the second half.

Last season's runners-up, , face a tricky assignment away to newly promoted but came through the test with a 2-0 victory. Bridget Galloway put the Wearsiders in front in the 26th minute and Katie Barker made the points safe with the second goal, ten minutes from time.

The other promoted team had better fortunes as came from two goals behind to record a fine 3-2 win against . New signings Ellie Gilliatt and Hannah Keryakoplis gave Derby a two-goal lead during the first half, before Levi Rathburn netted either side of half time to bring Burnley back on level terms and Sarah Greenhalgh completed the comeback with three minutes remaining by scoring the winner from the penalty spot. were another side to stage a fightback from two goals behind, this time to earn themselves a 2-2 draw away to . Kate Mallin and Lucy Sowerby both struck just before half time to put Town in a strong position but Georgia Stevens pulled one back two minutes after the interval and Georgia Payton ensured that the Coasters picked up a share of the spoils with an injury time equaliser.

Southern Premier Division are looking towards a much brighter future following several anxious months and relegation from the FA WSL, and they marked their first match back in the National League by scoring nine times without reply past . Sarah Wiltshire marked her return to the club by hitting a hat-trick and Kelly Aldridge also bagged a treble, with Ann Marie Heatherson (2) and Meesha Dudley-Jones also getting on the scoresheet. have got off to a good start, winning 3-0 away to a young side. Rebecca McShane opened the scoring for the Dons in the thirteenth minute and Dominika Netschova secured the win with a goal in each half.

Newly promoted have opened up with a victory, 2-0 against .

Sam Pittuck put Crawley ahead midway through the first half, before debutant Tash Stephens wrapped up the win ten minutes after half time. made the trip to and returned with a 2-0 win under their belts. Helen Ward gave the Golden Girls the lead on the quarter hour, and the Wales international striker secured the points with her second in first half injury time. recorded arguably the result of the day when they won 1-0 away to last season's runners-up . The South Wales side had been unbeaten at home in the league since

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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April 2018 but Grace Harrison scored the only goal of the game eight minutes before half time. The Gills were also indebted to a superb performance in goal from Cara Davies with a string of good saves including a second half penalty.

Division One North are the opening day leaders following their 3-0 victory against . Having finished as runners-up in each of the last two seasons, Brighouse's quest to go one better this around got off to a good start thanks to a goal apiece from Laura Bartup, Annabelle Cass and Lauren Breen goes close for Doncaster Rovers Belles Charlotte Proud. against Leafield Athletic (Julian Barker). also had a good campaign last time around and have got off the mark by beating 2-0. Both of Barnsley's goals came during the first half, Drew Greene giving them the lead just after the quarter hour and Lindsey Tugby adding the second. were the only team to record a victory away from home on the day, spoiling 's return to the National League by defeating them 2-0. Nichole Havery put the Cestrians in front in the eighth minute, with Katie Ellison sealing the win midway through the second half. put the misery of last season behind them and a new start this season has . Bradford were beaten in every brought an opening 3-2 win against newly promoted match they played in the previous campaign but a Falone Sumaili hat-trick brought an end to that unwanted run, although they were forced to endure a nervous end to the match when Hannah Greenwood and Erin Third reduced the arrears with late strikes for Durham. fielded a new look side with eight new signings and took the points with . Lucy Golding settled a closely contested a narrow 1-0 success against game by scoring the only goal during the first half.

Another tight match saw emerge as 1-0 winners over . Molly Havard ensured that Leeds picked up three points when she netted the game's solitary goal, seventeen minutes from time.

Division One Midlands had a great campaign last season, finishing in the top three, and have made a promising start this time around as they returned from with a 5-1 victory under their belts. Jade Grove netted twice inside the opening twelve minutes, before an own goal reduced the arrears for the home side. However, two goals in a three minute spell from Holly Rogers and Tanya Dickinson put BWM firmly in control, before Rogers completed the win with her second late on. made a stunning impact in their first match back in the league, winning 3-0 away to . Daisy-Mai Clements netted a brace for the newly promoted side, with Alice Rogers also on target for Leafield. finished off last season in good form and began this campaign with a victory, 3-1 against . Kathryn Pagan gave Moors an early lead which they took into half time but after the break, goals from Kirsty Allen, Nicola Emery and Amy Pashley turned the match around in Long Eaton's favour. went close to promotion last season and are off the mark this time, thanks to a 3-1 victory over . Wolves also needed to come from behind as Lincoln (formerly Nettleham) went ahead early on through Jeorgia Carr, but new signing Lois Jefferies and Jamilla Palmer ensured that Wolves led at the break and Jefferies wrapped up the win with her second on the hour.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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completed a good day for the newly promoted sides in the division when they defeated 2-0, thanks to a goal apiece from Natalie Hurst and Chantelle Robinson. and The spoils were shared as battled out a 2-2 draw. Emily Walker put Khalsa ahead in the fifth minute, with Bedworth hitting back to go ahead through Amanda Whalley and Abbie Taylor before Beth Gallagher earned Khalsa a point with a late equaliser.

Division One South East took the opening day honours in Division One South East and made it an uncomfortable start for newcomers as Brislington defender Leigha Milkins clears away from they ran out 5-1 winners. Hayley Barton put the O's in Philippa Holden of Southampton Women. front after three minutes, with City battling back to level the scores through Karly Tolentino. Egle Trezzi restored Orient's lead ahead of the break and in the second half, they added further goals thanks to Danielle Griffiths, Sophie Le Marchand and Belen Ripoli Douton.

The other newly promoted side, , were also beaten in their tough opening . Jay Blackie was on target twice game, going down 5-2 to last season's runners-up for Billericay along with Danica Dougal, Zoe Rushen and Lindsey Morgan whilst KFU replied through an Amy Russ and Shannon Burden. are off to a winning start, notching up a 4-2 success away to .

Aimee Durrant netted twice for Norwich along with Megan Todd and an own goal, whilst Poppy Binding and Sophie Spencer-Webb replied for the home side. by scoring both goals in Caroline Bisson marked her first appearance for their 2-1 victory away to , who had led at the interval through a strike from Amy Makewell. were a third team to notch up a victory on the road, 2-1 at .

Katherine Long gave Enfield a first half lead which was cancelled out by Charlotte Crisp, before Laura Baker gave Enfield the points via a late winner. and had to settle for a point apiece as their encounter finished in a 1-1 draw. Helen Ogle gave the Dons an eleventh minute lead, with Ipswich hitting back for a share of the spoils with a goal from Abbie Lafayette.

Division One South West are the opening day leaders following their 4-0 victory away to .

Sarah Stacey led the scoring for the Devon side with a hat-trick and Natalie Warman added their other goal. , who have finished as runners-up for the last two seasons, have started well this time around, winning 5-2 at . Jane Yeates hit a hat-trick which included a stunning 30-yard strike, along with Lauren Clark and a Kellie Warren penalty, with Cheryl Baber and Rebecca Pritchard replying for the home side.

Three second half goals saw newly promoted to a 5-2 success at . Shannon Sievwright netted twice for the Saints, Ella Pusey and Shannon Albuery adding the others along with an own goal, whilst Rebecca Bloor and Kate Bowers were on target for Chesham.

Fellow newcomers also had a good day, running out 3-0 winners over . Sophie Gillies, Anthea Kaptein and Zoe Watkins all scored a goal apiece for Exeter. have strengthened their squad with a number of new signings during the summer and they have got off to a winning start, beating 2-0. The first half was goalless but after the break, Mai Butler put Cheltenham in front and they wrapped up the points when Abby Bevan netted the second midway through the second half.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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NORTHERN PREMIER DIVISION LOUGHBOROUGH FOXES MIDDLESBROUGH STOKE CITY SUNDERLAND BURNLEY FC WOMEN FYLDE LADIES HUDDERSFIELD TOWN DERBY COUNTY WEST BROMWICH ALBION NOTTINGHAM FOREST SHEFFIELD F.C. HULL CITY

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

W 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

F 7 5 3 2 3 2 2 2 0 2 0 3

A Pts GD 3 3 4 LEADING SCORERS 2 3 3 Becky McGROTHER Loughborough Foxes 0 3 3 Eleanor DALE Middlesbrough 0 3 2 Levi RATHBURN Burnley FC Women 2 3 1 Rachael ACKROYD Hull City 2 1 0 Katie BARKER Sunderland 2 1 0 Rebekah BASS Middlesbrough 3 0 -1 Shauna CHAMBERS Loughborough Foxes 2 0 -2 Charlotte COOPER Loughborough Foxes 5 0 -3 Tyler Middlesbrough -3 DODDS 3 0 7 0 -4 Bridget GALLOWAY Sunderland

Burnley 3 Derby 2; Huddersfield 2 Fylde 2; Hull 3 Loughborough 7; Middlesbrough 5 Nottm Forest 2; Stoke 3 Sheffield 0; WBA 0 Sunderland 2.

SOUTHERN PREMIER DIVISION P W D L F A Pts YEOVIL TOWN 1 1 0 0 9 0 3 MILTON KEYNES DONS 1 1 0 0 3 0 3 CRAWLEY WASPS 1 1 0 0 2 0 3 WATFORD 1 1 0 0 2 0 3 GILLINGHAM 1 1 0 0 1 0 3 CARDIFF CITY LADIES 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 PORTSMOUTH 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 CHICHESTER CITY 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 HOUNSLOW WOMEN 1 0 0 1 0 9 0 KEYNSHAM TOWN 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 OXFORD UTD 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Cardiff 0 Gillingham 1; Chichester 0 MK Dons 3; Crawley Wasps 2 Plymouth 0; Hounslow 0 Yeovil 9; Portsmouth 0 Watford 2.

NORTHERN DIVISION ONE BRIGHOUSE TOWN BARNSLEY CHESTER-LE-STREET TOWN BRADFORD CITY BOLTON WANDERERS LEEDS UTD DURHAM CESTRIA LIVERPOOL FEDS NORTON & STOCKTON NEWCASTLE UTD STOCKPORT COUNTY CHORLEY

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

W 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1

F 3 2 2 3 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0

GD 9 LEADING SCORERS Kelly Yeovil Town 3 ALDRIDGE 2 WILTSHIRE Sarah Yeovil Town 2 Marie HEATHERSON Ann Yeovil Town 1 Dominika NETSCHOVA Milton Keynes Dons -1 WARD Helen Watford -2 Meesha DUDLEY-JONES Yeovil Town -2 Grace HARRISON Gillingham -3 Rebecca McSHANE Milton Keynes Dons -9 Sam PITTUCK Crawley Wasps 0 Tash Crawley Wasps 0 STEPHENS

2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

Goals scored in league matches only

GD DIVISION ONE A Pts MIDLANDS & WEST MIDLANDS 3 0 3 BIRMINGHAM ATHLETIC 2 0 3 LEAFIELD LONG EATON UTD 2 0 3 W. 1 2 3 WOLVERHAMPTON UTD 1 0 3 LEICESTER UTD 1 0 3 BEDWORTH KHALSA -1 3 0 SPORTING CITY -1 1 0 LINCOLN MOORS -1 1 0 SOLIHULL ALBION -2 2 0 BURTON ROVERS BELLES -2 2 0 DONCASTER -3 LADIES 3 0 TNS

Barnsley 2 Newcastle 0; Bolton 1 Norton 0; Bradford 3 Durham 2; Brighouse 3 Chorley 0; Leeds 1 Liverpool Feds 0; Stockport 0 Chester-le-Street 2.

4

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

W 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

F 5 3 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 1

A Pts GD 4 1 3 3 0 3 2 1 3 2 1 3 0 3 2 0 2 1 0 2 1 -2 3 0 -2 3 0 -2 2 0 -3 3 0 -4 5 0

Bedworth 2 Sporting Khalsa 2; Doncaster 0 Leafield 3; Leicester 2 Burton 0; Long Eaton 3 Solihull 1; TNS 1 Birmingham WM 5; Wolves 3 Lincoln 1.

GD WEST DIVISION ONE P W D L F A Pts GD A Pts SOUTH ATHLETIC 1 1 0 0 4 0 3 4 4 1 3 BUCKLAND F.C. 1 1 0 0 5 2 3 3 3 2 3 SOUTHAMPTON WOMEN 1 1 0 0 5 2 3 3 2 2 3 SOUTHAMPTON CITY 1 1 0 0 3 0 3 3 1 1 3 EXETER TOWN 1 1 0 0 2 0 3 2 1 1 3 CHELTENHAM TOWN 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 -2 0 1 1 POOLE 1 0 0 1 2 5 0 -3 0 1 1 BRISLINGTON UTD 1 0 0 1 2 5 0 -3 -1 2 0 CHESHAM ATHLETIC 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 -3 -1 2 0 LARKHALL UTD 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 -4 -2 4 0 MAIDENHEAD TOWN 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -3 5 0 SWINDON -4 5 0 Brislington 2 Southampton Women 5; Cheltenham 2 Poole 0; AFC Basildon 2 Norwich 4; Billericay 5 Kent Football 2; Cambridge Chesham 2 Southampton FC 5; Exeter 3 Larkhall 0; Maidenhead 0 Buckland 4.

Utd 1 Enfield 2; Ipswich 1 AFC Wimbledon 1; Leyton Orient 5 Cambridge City 1; Stevenage 1 Actonians 2.

SOUTH EAST DIVISION ONE LEYTON ORIENT BILLERICAY TOWN NORWICH CITY ACTONIANS LADIES ENFIELD TOWN AFC WIMBLEDON IPSWICH TOWN CAMBRIDGE UTD STEVENAGE LADIES AFC BASILDON KENT FOOTBALL UTD CAMBRIDGE CITY

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

W 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

D 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

F 5 5 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1

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We talk to…..

Becca Wakely (Exeter City)

After winning the South West Women’s League title last season, Exeter City have taken that form into their first match in Division One South West of the FA Women’s National League, recording an impressive 3-0 win against Larkhall Athletic.

We talked to Exeter vice captain Becca Wakely, who was understandably delighted about her team’s results against seasoned opponents at what had been a higher level, and is confident that they can continue to make an impact in their new league: BW: Thank you! We didn’t really know what to expect but we knew it would be a challenge and we have ensured we worked hard as a team in pre-season and it has paid off. We had hard pre-season friendlies and it tested us and allowed us to learn a lot about ourselves from them which has helped prepare us for the season ahead.

BW: Everyone was so excited and keen to get the season going. It was so good kicking off the season with a win and showing better teams what we can do and what sort of challenge they can expect when they face us.

BW: It was great scoring three goals and gave us real momentum in the game. It was an amazing feeling coming away from our first game with a clean sheet and the win. We all work hard together to defend and that starts from the front, then midfield and defence. As a unit in defence, we work well from one side to the other backing each other up.

BW: Everyone is looking forward to the game against Plymouth. We played them in pre-season and did so well in the first half and came back from 2-0 down to 2-2 before half time. We know what to expect from them and what we need to do to hopefully get the result we want.

BW: 0Of course we want to build on the good start we have had and carry the momentum from the last game into the next, it is important that we do not take our foot of the gas. We know that every game is important so it’s carrying that mentality forward into each game we play is key.

BW: We do have a young squad but there is a core of older and experienced players like Abbie, T and myself who offer guidance and encouragement in helping them in their development and the team’s future success.

BW: I think a good season for us would be to break into the top 4 in our first season and look to really challenge as much as we can not just in the league but cup competitions also.

We have so many good players in this squad and I truly can see us working our way up the leagues.

Our thanks to Becca!

(Photo - www.exetercityfc.co.uk)

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Wonder strike seals Hillians’ progress Burgess Hill Town 3 Eastbourne Utd 2 Burgess Hill Town progressed to the Preliminary round of the F A Women's Cup with a 3-2 home win over Eastbourne United in an exciting and well contested Extra Preliminary round tie.

Both sides had held the lead but, with three minutes left, the tie was locked at two apiece. The outcome was settled with an outrageous drilled effort from beyond the halfway line which flew in, assisted by a strong breeze, to give the hosts a dramatic victory.

Both clubs compete in the South East Counties League, with Eastbourne United, formerly known as Eastbourne Ladies, in the Premier Division whilst Burgess Hill Town are one step below in Division One West. The prize for the winners is a home tie with Saltdean in the Preliminary round.

Charley Law is under pressure from Nia Hall The opening exchanges were slightly in United's (www.jamesprickett.co.uk). favour, using the wings well to create danger. A cross from the right on 15 minutes drew a good save from Town keeper Casey Dunford and then Shantelle Omar headed over from a corner. However the hosts were always dangerous and Charlotte Pollendine with a powerful drive drew a fine save from Katie Burr in the United goal on 19 minutes.

Burgess Hill took the lead on 26 minutes with a superb strike from Charley Law, turning and lofting a powerful effort beyond Burr from 25 yards. Eastbourne United levelled on 35 minutes when a Leanne Hawkins free kick from the left deceived the keeper.

United started the second half well with Omar drawing a fine save from Dunford before the follow up shot bounced to safety off the top of the bar. The visitors took the lead with a fine run and low cross from Melissa Ferguson well finished by Nieve Gilman on 61 minutes.

Burgess Hill rallied and were soon level again when Caitlin Garden reacted quickest to a bouncing ball to finish from close range on 67 minutes. A very entertaining match was truly in the balance as both sides pressed for a breakthrough as the contest entered the final stages.

Lucy Kisielewska tested Burr with a well struck free kick from 35 yards and it was the Burgess Hill defender, who had a fine match in her main role, who made the breakthrough on 87 minutes.

Kisielewska hit a sweetly struck ball from well within her own half and the trajectory was perfect, taking the ball way beyond the keeper but just below the crossbar for a stunning winner. Hard as the visitors tried, they could not really trouble a resolute Hillians defence in the final minutes.

Burgess Hill Town, with just a starting eleven and no substitutes, owing to the exceptionally early date for this round of the competition, three weeks before the start of league fixtures, achieved a fine win over higher level opposition, who themselves had contributed fully to a very good F A Cup tie.

Casey Dunford, Hannah Harvey, Charley Law, Sadie Ashby, Rachael Bowen, Anna Deignan, Caitlin Garden, Penny Gittins, Lucy Kisielewska, Hayley Nash, Charlotte Pollendine.

Katie Burr, Emma Sweetman, Ellis Rabey, Jade Hatcher, Victoria Ecclestone, Leanne Hawkins, Elena South, Ella Sutherland, Melissa Ferguson, Nieve Gilman, Shantelle Omar. Subs: Nia Hall, Jessica Storrie, Paige Westwood, Shaina Mallorca, Sophie Knowlton.

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Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

Consistency the key for Scotland Shelley Kerr has named her squad for Scotland Women's first match since their FIFA World Cup debut, against Cyprus at Easter Road.

Kerr has assembled a similar squad of players to the one which were agonisingly close to reaching the knockout stages, with a number of fresh faces also included.

Lana Clelland and Christie Murray are ruled out through injury and there are six inclusions with Rachel McLauchlan, Lucy Graham, Sam Kerr, Abbi Grant, Abi Harrison and Zoe Ness all called up. Fresh from their summer moves, Jen Beattie, Claire Emslie and Jane Ross will also meet up with the squad.

The team will now aim to qualify for their third consecutive tournament, in England for EURO 2021.

Scotland will open their campaign against Cyprus before travelling to Albania later this year.

They will then play Portugal and Finland home and away in 2020.

Shelley Kerr told www.scottishfa.co.uk: "The World Cup was an amazing experience for the players and one we've learned a huge amount from.

"Seeing the level of support we had from the general public across Scotland was incredibly inspiring and we now need to make sure this is just the start.

"To have 18,000 at Hampden for our send-off match was something that'll go down in history and now we want another large crowd, at Easter Road.

"Playing in Edinburgh is something we haven't done for a few years so it'll be great to play in the capital.

"We want to qualify for another major tournament and that all starts against Cyprus so we'll be doing everything we can to continue the momentum and get the campaign off to a positive start."

Tickets for the match are priced £5 for adults & £2 for kids.

SCOTLAND SQUAD v. CYPRUS NAME Lee ALEXANDER Jenna FIFE Shannon LYNN Chloe ARTHUR Jennifer BEATTIE Rachel CORSIE Nicola DOCHERTY Sophie HOWARD Hayley LAUDER Rachael McLAUCHLAN Joelle MURRAY Kirsty SMITH Lizzie ARNOT Leanne CRICHTON Lucy GRAHAM Samantha KERR Kim LITTLE Joanne LOVE Caroline WEIR Fiona BROWN Erin CUTHBERT Claire EMSLIE Lisa EVANS Abbi GRANT Abi HARRISON Zoe NESS Jane ROSS

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

CLUB Glasgow City Hibernian Vittsjo GIK Birmingham City Arsenal Utah Royals Glasgow City Reading FC Women Glasgow City Glasgow City HIbernian Manchester Utd Manchester Utd Glasgow City Everton Glasgow City Arsenal Glasgow City Manchester City FC Rosengard Chelsea Manchester City Arsenal Birmingham City Bristol City Lewes West Ham Utd

CAPS 20 4 30 20 127 112 21 16 100 7 48 38 28 65 3 0 136 191 66 39 33 24 81 2 3 8 128

GOALS 0 0 0 0 23 16 0 1 9 0 1 0 2 3 0 0 54 13 8 2 11 4 17 0 0 1 58

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SBS Scottish Women’s Premier League are in complete control of the Scottish Women's Premier League title race as they maintained their 100% league record this season with a 1-0 win over in their top of the table clash at Petershill Park.

Clare Shine’s 37th minute left foot strike was the difference between the two sides over the ninety minutes and this leaves City eight points clear, with a game in hand, as the Glasgow side chase their 13th title in a row. have moved back above Celtic into second place on goal difference, courtesy of a 4-0 victory away to . Jamie-Lee Napier ensured that Hibs were in front at half time and after the break, Amy Gallacher increased their lead and Napier completed her double on the hour mark, before Kirsty Hayley Lauder gets in a shot for Glasgow City against Celtic (Tommy Hughes).

Morrison rounded off the scoring. are in the top half of the table following their 1-0 success against , who remain three points above the relegation zone. Michaela McAlonie scored the only goal of the game, midway through the first half.

Cup duties meant that the schedule in SWPL 2 was restricted to just a single game, but it saw leaders open up a gap of three points with a 2-1 victory away to . The home side got off to a great start with Ellie Cowie giving them the lead in the opening minute but the Accies hit back with a first half double from Dionne Brown, which turned out to be enough to give them three valuable points.

There will be a reduced programme in the Scottish Women’s Football League this coming Sunday, due to the Fourth Round of the SSE Scottish Women’s Cup taking place.

The final three ties in the Third Round have been played over the past week, with Cup holders Hibernian booking their place in the last sixteen with a 5-0 victory over Stirling University. SWPL 1 P W D L F A Pts GD In the second meeting between the sides GLASGOW CITY 12 12 0 0 59 5 36 54 in a matter of days, Colette Cavanagh was HIBERNIAN 13 9 1 3 41 9 28 32 on target twice along with Ellis Notley, CELTIC 13 9 1 3 33 12 28 21 -7 13 5 2 6 16 23 17 Siobhan Hunter and an own goal to set up SPARTANS LFC 11 5 1 5 19 33 16 -14 RANGERS an Edinburgh derby tie with Hearts.

12 3 3 6 15 31 12 -16 Hannah Robertson netted two of MOTHERWELL 13 1 2 10 11 46 5 -35 FORFAR FARMINGTON the goals as Rangers ran out 6-0 winners 13 0 2 11 5 40 2 -35 STIRLING UNIVERSITY against Glasgow Girls. Chantelle Brown, Laura McCartney, Gill Inglis and Brogan Stirling Univ 0 Hibernian 4; Spartans 1 Forfar 0; Glasgow City 1 Hay weighed in with the others for Rangers Celtic 0. who are now away to Forfar Farmington.

P W D L F A Pts GD SWPL 2 Inverness Caledonian Thistle HAMILTON ACADEMICAL 13 8 3 2 46 10 27 36 meanwhile claimed a SWPL scalp when HEARTS 12 7 3 2 39 8 24 31 they defeated Hutchison Vale 5-0. Alex PARTICK THISTLE 12 6 4 2 26 8 22 18 12 6 2 4 31 13 20 18 Andrews bagged a brace and she was GLASGOW GIRLS 12 5 3 4 28 17 18 11 joined on the scoresheet by Leanne FC KILMARNOCK 6 12 5 2 5 19 13 17 UTD Calder, Jodie Malcolm and Lisa McKenzie. DUNDEE 3 13 2 3 8 25 22 9 ST JOHNSTONE Caley’s reward in the last sixteen is an HUTCHISON VALE 12 0 0 12 1 124 0 -123 away trip to last season’s beaten finalists Motherwell.

St Johnstone 1 Hamilton 2.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Fixtures for 25th August SSE SCOTTISH WOMEN'S CUP FOURTH ROUND Aberdeen FC Women v FC Kilmarnock Celtic v St Johnstone Forfar Farmington v Rangers Glasgow City v Dundee City Hamilton Academical v Clyde Hearts v Hibernian Motherwell v Inverness Caledonian Thistle Queen's Park v Dunfermline Athletic FA WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP Blackburn Rovers v London Bees Charlton Athletic v Lewes Durham Women v Crystal Palace London City Lionesses v Aston Villa Sheffield Utd v Leicester City F.A.WOMEN'S NATIONAL LEAGUE LEAGUE CUP DETERMINING ROUND Actonians Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Bedworth Utd v Stockport County Billericay Town v Cheltenham Town Birmingham & West Midlands v Bolton Wanderers Brighouse Town v Loughborough Foxes Burton Albion v Derby County Chesham Utd v Brislington Chichester City v Cambridge City Chorley v Leafield Athletic Doncaster Rovers Belles v Sheffield FC Durham Cestria v Middlesbrough Enfield Town v Norwich City Exeter City v Plymouth Argyle Hounslow Women v Gillingham Huddersfield Town v Nottingham Forest Kent Football Utd v AFC Basildon Keynsham Town v Buckland Athletic Leeds Utd v Burnley FC Women Leyton Orient v Cambridge Utd Lincoln City v Stoke City Liverpool Feds v Bradford City Long Eaton Utd v Chester-le-Street Town Maidenhead Utd v Cardiff City Ladies Norton & Stockton Ancients v Hull City Oxford Utd v Crawley Wasps Portsmouth v Watford Solihull Moors v Fylde Ladies Southampton FC v Ipswich Town Southampton Women v Poole Town Stevenage Women v Yeovil Town Sunderland v Newcastle Utd Swindon Town v Milton Keynes Dons The New Saints v Leicester Utd West Bromwich Albion v Barnsley Wolverhampton W v Sporting Khalsa

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SBS SCOTTISH WOMEN'S PREMIER LEAGUE SWPL 1 Rangers v Spartans SWPL 2 Dundee Utd v Glasgow Girls LONDON & SOUTH EAST LEAGUE Ashford Town (Middx) v Whyteleafe Aylesford v Fulham Denham Utd v Dartford Eastbourne Town v Dulwich Hamlet Saltdean Utd v Queen's Park Rangers Development STAFFORDSHIRE LEAGUE Black Country Fusion v Sutton Rangers Lionesses Leek Town Res v Telford Juniors Pelsall Villa v Shrewsbury Juniors Tamworth v City of Stoke Walsall Ladies v Wyrley Women Res Walsall Wood v Stafford Town SCOTTISH WOMEN’S FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE NORTH Buchan Ladies v Kelty Hearts East Fife v Cove Rangers Stonehaven v Montrose Westdyke Ladies v Raith Rovers DIVISION ONE SOUTH Ayr Utd v Hamilton Academical U23 Boroughmuir Thistle v Hibernian U23 Celtic Academy v Blackburn Utd Renfrew v Glasgow City Development Spartans Development v FC Kilmnarock U23 DIVISION TWO SOUTH/EAST/CENTRAL Blackburn Utd Development v Borders Ladies Lothian v Airdrie Ladies Stenhousemuir v Edinburgh Caledonia Sitling University Development v Musselburgh Windsor DIVISION TWO WEST/SOUTH WEST Clark Drive Ladies v East Kilbride Thistle Gleniffer Thistle v Stewarton Utd Kilwinning v Mid Annandale Ladies Morton v Rutherglen Stranraer v Annan Athletic DIVISION TWO WEST/CENTRAL Glasgow Girls U23 v Bishopton Renton Craigandro v Pollok Utd United Glasgow v Motherwell Development West Park Utd v BSC Glasgow DIVISION TWO NORTH/EAST Buchan Youth v Dryburgh Athletic Dunfermline Athletic v Jeanfield Swifts Granite City v Forfar Farmington Women Westdyke Thistle v Moray

Fixtures correct at the time of going to press.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

Wales squad for opening qualifiers Wales manager Jayne Ludlow has named a 22-player squad for the opening matches of her side's UEFA Women Euro 2021 qualification campaign.

Ludlow welcomes back midfield stalwarts Angharad James and Rachel Rowe to face the Faroe Islands and Northern Ireland on 29th August and 3rd September respectively. James was rested for Wales' 1-0 win against 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup side New Zealand in June while Rachel Rowe returns from a lengthy layoff due to an ACL injury. Wales however will be without their most capped player Jessica Fishlock who is unavailable until 2020, also due to an ACL injury.

Fifteen-year old Carrie Jones will be the youngest member of the squad after receiving her first senior team call up. The midfielder from Newtown has previously trained with the senior squad and has captained Wales at Under-17 level. She is one of four uncapped players named in the squad, the others being Olivia Clark, Anna Filbey and Lily Woodham.

Wales will begin their qualifying journey by travelling to the Faroe Islands for the opening match in Torshavn on Thursday 29th August. Five days later, captain Sophie Ingle and her team mates will be playing their first home match of the campaign at Rodney Parade, Newport against Northern Ireland.

Tickets for the Northern Ireland match are still available and can be purchased at www.bit.ly/WalNirTICKETS

WALES SQUAD v. FAROE ISLANDS & NORTHERN IRELAND NAME Laura O'SULLIVAN Claire SKINNER Olivia CLARK Sophie INGLE Hayley LADD Loren DYKES Gemma EVANS Rhiannon ROBERTS Charlie ESTCOURT Anna FILBEY Angharad JAMES Elise HUGHES Rachel ROWE Carrie JONES Natasha HARDING Emma JONES Megan WYNNE Helen WARD Kayleigh GREEN Lily WOODHAM Kylie NOLAN Ella POWELL

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

CLUB Cardiff City Ladies Cardiff City Women Huddersfield Town Chelsea Manchester Utd Bristol City Bristol City Liverpool Charlton Athletic Tottenham Hotspur Reading FC Women Everton Reading FC Women Cardiff City Ladies Reading FC Women Lewes Tottenham Hotspur Watford Brighton & Hove Albion Charlton Athletic Cardiff City Ladies Lewes

CAPS 31 7 0 95 54 101 22 24 29 0 74 6 30 0 78 3 10 88 40 0 12 2

GOALS 0 0 0 2 3 3 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 13 0 0 42 10 0 0 0

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The Regional Leagues...

Eastern Region League Samaira Khan and Rianne Townsend-Brown both recorded the biggest hit hat-tricks as victory of the opening day in the Premier Division against . Lucy Hancock, Megan Kelly and Charlene Moreton each contributed doubles and the tally was completed by Christina Freestone and Adrienne Milton, with Bianca Vassell hitting the netted nine visitors' consolation. , Jo times without reply past Rutherford bagging a hat-trick along with braces from Samantha Edgar, Emma Slater and Ellie Wilkerson. The two newly promoted sides met each other with Sophie Dowman, Donna Fletcher and a 3-2 victory Megan Harley giving over , who replied through Ruth Fox were given a tough and Sasha Smith. start in their first match in the league away to but started well with a 3-2 win, courtesy of a Dionne Manning hat-trick.

Kayleigh Holloway and Emily Leach were on target won 2-1 at and Mia as as they Etheridge netted for drew 1-1 with , whose reply came from Beth Chambers.

London & South East League

Eastern Region League PREMIER DIVISION COLNEY HEATH ROYSTON TOWN BOWERS & PITSEA LUTON TOWN WROXHAM HARLOW TOWN WYMONDHAM TOWN PETERBORO NORTHERN STAR ST IVES TOWN BEDFORD LADIES HARINGEY BOROUGH AFC DUNSTABLE

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

W 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1

F A Pts 15 1 3 9 0 3 3 2 3 3 2 3 2 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 0 2 3 0 1 2 0 0 9 0 1 15 0

Bedford 1 Wroxham 2; Bowers & Pitsea 3 St Ives 2; Colney Heath 15 AFC Dunstable 1; Peterborough NS 2 Luton 3; Royston 9 Haringey 0; Wymondham 1 Harlow 1.

London & South East League QUEEN'S PARK RANGERS DULWICH HAMLET DARTFORD SALTDEAN UTD FULHAM WHYTELEAFE AYLESFORD EASTBOURNE TOWN ASHFORD TOWN (MIDDX) DENHAM UTD

P 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0

W 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0

F 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 0 0 0

A Pts 0 3 1 3 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0

It has been a summer of change at but the new season has started well for Dulwich 2 Aylesford 1; Fulham 1 Whyteleafe 1; QPR 2 Eastbourne them, with a 2-0 win against . 0; Saltdean 2 Dartford 2.

Chloe Sampson scored a goal in each half to put her side on top of the opening day table, with the other team to record a victory on the day, 2-1 over . Liz Wicks and Olivia Bennet were on the scoresheet for Dulwich, who finished runners-up last season under their former name of AFC Phoenix, with Alex Witham replying. Naomi Robinson and Casey Sands netted the goals for newly promoted as they shared a 2-2 draw with , who scored through Kimberley Green and Shauni Griffiths, whilst Lauren Peck and Amy Reader were on target respectively for and as their meeting culminated in a 1-1 draw.

North East League The new season opened up with the First Round of the League Cup on Sunday and the all-Premier Division clash ended emphatically in favour of , who won 11-1 against .

Eve Blakey scored a hat-trick, Dionne Fleming and Rebecca Shields adding two apiece with Elizabeth Fraser, Grace Boyes, Natalie Beswick and Rebecca Ward also getting on the scoresheet. meanwhile defeated 6-1 thanks to Ellen Turnbull (2), Emma Hewett (2), Nicole Dack and Rebecca Hansen. Newcomers triumphed 3-0 against thanks to a second half brace from Jennifer Ashton, with Rachel Tuff adding the other, whilst strikes from Lauren Henderson (2), Kate Kirby and Gabrielle Watson ensured that defeated 4-2. were 6-2 winners over , Alex Ross and Kristen Whitfield each scoring twice along with Emma Banks and Toni Deacon, Anna Mawston and Sacha Millward replying. Jessica Morrison bagged a brace as beat 2-0 and won 7-4 against , Jodie Langstaff hitting a hat-trick with Tamryn Dunlop, Rachel Humble, Kerry Playle and Victoria Stonehouse adding the others.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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SSE Women’s FA Cup went through to the Preliminary Round of the SSE Women's FA Cup with a 4-1 victory over .

The teams were two levels apart in the pyramid last season but both will be in the London & South East League this time around and it was Ashford who took the win with goals from Lavana Neufville (2), Charmaine Benham and Holly Isaacs, Rae Roberts replying. Ashford now . have an intriguing home tie against had a good day as they scored thirteen times without reply away to . Jess Round led the scoring with a five-goal haul and Kenzie Parkes weighed in with a further four, whilst Jenny Dixon and Suzanne Fox both contributed doubles. Redcar will be home to in the next round. will play after winning 3-0 at , Rachel White bagging a brace and Shirley Murphy adding the other. must travel to after running out 11-1 winners over .

Nya Chambers gave County the lead with only 47 seconds on the clock, with Bella Reed hitting a hat-trick along with Becky Linsley (2), Jess Munn and Sami Brooks before Chelsie Hooley grabbed a late treble. scored nine without reply past with Liberty Windsor, Kim Cartlidge and Shannis Stanley all netted twice, the tally being completed by Meg Baldwin, Nat Glenville and Charlotte Glover. Vale are now at home to .

Janiece Allen was on target four times for as they won 5-1 against Stortford, from the level above. Chemise Huiston added the other for Hartham who now host City. were 2-1 winners away to , to earn themselves a trip to , edged out by the odd goal in nine, courtesy of a Kiz Fergus hat-trick, Samantha Lanza Gabian and Christa Wilde. Samantha Dickinson (2), Elissa Borthwick and Rosalind Duignan-Pearson all replied for the Comets but the Lionesses added to their good Cup form in recent seasons and they will be hoping to continue that in the next round at .

Charley Law, Caitlin Garden and Lucy Kisielewska scored the goals as won 3-2 against , who replied through Leanne Hawkins and Nieve Gilman, to book themselves a home tie with (see match report).

The County Leagues The Staffordshire League was the first at County League level to start their league programme and (formerly Shenstone) commenced their defence of the title with a 4-0 victory over . Holly Meehan Staffordshire netted twice, with one apiece from Claire Ham and Karen Clough. are the opening day P W D L F A Pts 1 1 0 0 6 0 3 leaders after scoring six times without reply past TAMWORTH LEEK TOWN RES 1 1 0 0 5 1 3 , Olivia Woolston and Grace STAFFORD TOWN 1 1 0 0 5 1 3 1 1 0 0 4 0 3 Dickens each netting doubles along with Daisy SUTTON RANGERS LIONESSES OF STOKE 1 1 0 0 5 2 3 Potter and Kelsi Back. and CITY PELSALL VILLA COLTS 1 0 1 0 4 4 1 occupy the next two positions in WALSALL WOOD 1 0 1 0 4 4 1 1 0 0 1 2 5 0 the opening day table after recording 5-1 wins DOVERIDGE WALSALL LADIES 1 0 0 1 1 5 0 against and WYRLEY WOMEN RES 1 0 0 1 1 5 0 SHREWSBURY JUNIORS 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 respectively. opened up with a 5-2 BLACK COUNTRY FUSION 1 0 0 1 0 6 0 success over thanks to Eleanor Rowe STAFFORDSHIRE VICTORIA 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 (2), Sam Brough, Lizzie White and an own goal, TELFORD JUNIORS whilst and shared Black Country 0 Tamworth 6; City of Stoke 5 Doveridge 2; Pelsall Villa 4 Walsall Wood 4; Sutton 4 Shrewsbury 0; Walsall LFC 1 Leek eight goals.

5; Wyrley 1 Stafford 5.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Champions handed Italian job FA WSL Champions Arsenal's return to the Champions League pitches them against Fiorentina in the Round of 32.

The Gunners, who are not seeded despite being former winners of the competition, will be at home in the first leg against the Italian side who will include Scotland striker Lana Clelland in their ranks.

Manchester City will be looking for improvement on their exit at this stage last season and they will be away in the first leg against Swiss title winners FF Lugano.

Glasgow City face a long trip first up to Russia, to face WFC Chertanovo, whilst Hibernian, fresh from getting through their qualifying group this week, have been rewarded with a tie against Slavia Prague, who reached the quarter finals last season.

The standout tie of the round sees Juventus - whose squad includes Eniola Aluko and Lianne Sanderson - pitched against last season's beaten finalists Barcelona. Toni Duggan and her Atletico Madrid squad are up against ZFK Spartak Subotica whilst holders Olympique Lyonnais, who now have four England internationals in their ranks, commence their defence of the trophy against WFC Ryazan-VDV. Ties are to be played on 11/12 September and 25/26 September (dates to be confirmed).

Round of 32 draw: Juventus Football Club (ITA) v FC Barcelona (ESP) Hibernian Ladies FC (SCO) v SK Slavia Praha (CZE) ŽFK Spartak Subotica (SRB) v Club Atlético de Madrid (ESP) Sporting Clube de Braga (POR) v Paris Saint Germain (FRA) KF Vllaznia (ALB) v Fortuna Hjørring (DEN) WFC Chertanovo (RUS) v Glasgow City FC (SCO) WFC Ryazan-VDV (RUS) v Olympique Lyonnais (FRA) Arsenal Women FC (ENG) v Fiorentina Women's FC (ITA) Göteborg FC (SWE) v FC Bayern München (GER) SKN St. Pölten Frauen (AUT) v FC Twente (NED) RSC Anderlecht (BEL) v WFC BIIK-Kazygurt (KAZ) Breidablik (ISL) v AC Sparta Praha (CZE) KFF Mitrovica (KOS) v VfL Wolfsburg (GER) Piteå IF DFF (SWE) v Brøndby IF (DEN) Football Femminile Lugano 1976 (SUI) v Manchester City (ENG) FC Minsk (BLR) v FC Zürich Frauen (SUI) Hibernian booked their place in the knockout stages last week by coming through a qualifying group which included WPWL Champions Cardiff Met Women.

Both teams travelled to Slovenia for their group and Hibs were in action first, winning 3-0 against FC Nike of Georgia with Jamie-Lee Napier hitting a second half double, after Colette Cavanagh had givem them a first half lead. Cardiff Met then took on group hosts Pomurje and a goal two minutes from time by Naomi Clipston earned the Archers a 1-0 victory.

The two British teams then came face to face in the second round of fixtures and it was Hibernian who were to emerge as 2-1 winners. Amy Gallacher gave them the lead after twenty minutes and Joelle Murray’s goal midway through the second half proved to be decisive, despite Emily Allen pulling one back for Met late on.

This left Hibs needing to avoid defeat in their final match against Pomurje and they clinched top spot in the group as Jamie-Lee Napier and Lauren Davidson gave them a 2-1 victory. Met meanwhile ran out 5-1 winners over FC Nike, Madison Schupbach (2), Naomi Clipston (2) and Robyn Pinder scoring the goals which mean they finish in second place, the best performance by a Welsh team in the competition to date.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Caledonian Stadium to host Cup Final Scottish Women’s Football (SWF) have announced that the Caledonian Stadium will host the first ever Highlands & Islands League Cup Final, sponsored by Orion Group, on Saturday 24th August. As a footballing landmark in the region, it will provide a first class match day experience for players, coaches, officials, and spectators.

Clachnacuddin Women FC and Lewis & Harris WFC are confirmed as the two finalists after the latter’s victory on Sunday. It means the top two teams in the league, separated by just three points, will battle for the first ever silver wear in the region.

The two teams have met once before on April 27th with Lewis & Harris prevailing 2-1 away from home. Since then, both teams have a 100% record and it’s likely this will be another close encounter.

Fiona McIntyre, Executive Officer of SWF, added: “We are delighted to have secured the Caledonian Stadium for the final. It’s an iconic stadium within the region and will allow for SWF to make this event a spectacle to further promote the girls’ and women’s game.

It has also been confirmed that Orion Group will be the official sponsor of the final. The international recruitment business, based in Inverness, are big supporters of women’s football in the region.

Orion Group marketing manager, Dean Reilly, said they were honoured to provide our support for Women’s football and the Highland League cup final.

“We are delighted to be able to assist in providing sponsorship for such an historic match”, he said. “Football continues to play a huge part in the Inverness community and Orion Group is extremely proud of the success and growing popularity of women’s football in the highlands.

“To have Orion Group involved in this event is a massive statement for all involved in the game”, said Fiona. “As a Highlands and Islands based company who are already invested in the game, it’s a perfect fit. Their sponsorship allows us to help take the game to the next level for girls and women in the region.”

This has already been a historic year for girls’ and women’s football in the Highlands and Islands.

The League and League Cup are a first for the area, with teams and clubs previously having to enter national leagues.

The SWF Highlands and Islands League Cup Final will take place at Caledonian Stadium on Saturday 24th August, 13:00 KO. Tickets are priced at £5 adults, £2 concessions, and under-12’s go free. (www.scotwomensfootball.com)

Tel: (0117) 9694544 E-Mail: news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk Website: www.WomensSoccerScene.co.uk Twitter: @wssmagnews Editors: Neil Brown Mark Brown Contributors: James Prickett (www.jamesprickett.co.uk) Patrick Higgins

Julian Barker David Potham Susan Gutteridge Will Cheshire Winners of the 2006 FA National Media Award Views expressed in articles in this magazine are those of the subject and not necessarily those of Women’s Soccer Scene and its staff.

Issue no. 754

Front cover photo: Hayley Nash of Burgess Hill Town and Eastbourne Utd’s Melissa Ferguson in a chase for the ball during their SSE Women’s FA Cup tie (www.jamesprickett.co.uk).

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Jade on verge of landmark Wolves Women’s Jade Cross is stepping into the new season on the verge of a huge personal landmark – but the prolific striker is refusing to think about it!

Wolverhampton born and bred Cross needs just one goal to reach the 100 mark for her home town club after hitting her previous 99 in just 135 appearances.

With such a high ratio of goals to games, it shouldn’t take long for that magic moment to arrive for the 24-year-old striker.

It could indeed arrive on Sunday, when Wolves open their League Cup campaign with a home tie against local rivals Sporting Khalsa in the Determining Round.

But Cross insists: “I’m not even thinking about getting to a hundred goals. I’m going into the new season treating it as a clean slate and starting from zero.

“I just want to get off the mark as quickly as I can and hopefully carry on from where I left off last season in terms of my goalscoring.”

Where Cross left off last season was with two goals against West Bromwich Albion, the last game brace taking her to a total of 32 for the campaign.

Twenty-nine of those strikes came in Division 1 Midlands outings, earning her the division’s cherished Golden Boot award.

“It was great to get the Golden Boot and I’ll cherish the award,” says Cross, whose twin sister Emma is a Wolves team mate.

“It was the most goals I’ve ever scored in a season and that was very pleasing, but the downside was that we missed out on promotion.

“It was a major disappointment, but that will drive us on this season and our absolute focus will be on getting up to the next division.”

Another big goal haul from Cross would certainly help her team achieve the promotion they crave, and goals galore will be the striker’s aim.

But as she looks ahead to the new campaign she notes: “It doesn’t matter where the goals come from as long as we’re scoring plenty and winning matches.

“I believe we’ve got a stronger team than last season after some really good signings and so competition for places will be a lot stronger too.

“So although I’ll obviously be out to get as many goals as I can, I’ll be more than happy for the scoring to be shared out if it means we end up with promotion.”

Orchard extend WPWL sponsorship The top division of the women’s game in Wales is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, and will be known as the Orchard Welsh Premier Women’s League for the fourth season running.

Following the boost in profile last season, Orchard will continue to use their PR expertise to support the league and attract more players and investment into the women’s game in Wales. Offering support through online activities such as videos and online marketing, as well as helping events such as hosting clubs for International Women's Day and offering services for the League's Annual Awards Dinner.

Commenting on the deal, Ianthe Mumford, Welsh Premier Women’s League General Manager, said: “The partnership between the Welsh Premier Women's League and Orchard has grown since they first joined us as league sponsor, and I am absolutely delighted that they have renewed again for the 2019/20 season. Women's football has never been more popular and the support from Orchard is crucial in helping us to grow and develop the League, bringing it to an even wider audience and the next generation.”

Orchard Head of Marketing, Emma Wordley said: “We’ve had a great relationship with the league over the past few years, and seen at first hand the resilience and passion of all concerned. We share that desire to see the women’s game prosper in Wales, building profile and attracting more players, and are only too happy to play our part in its ongoing development.”

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

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Swindon make name alteration Swindon Town Ladies have today announced that they are changing their name, as they embrace the upsurge of interest in women's football.

Wiltshire's highest-ranked football club, which has operated under that name since its founding in 1993, is proud to announce that it will move forward as Swindon Town Women.

The committee and staff of Swindon Town Women felt that the time was right to adopt a more modern, inclusive name, as the club seeks to build on its status as Swindon's top women's football team.

They make the step following another strong showing from the England Women's side in this year's World Cup, with the Lionesses performance's inspiring a generation of girls to take up the game, and encouraging new fans to the women's game.

Swindon Town Women's first team manager, Dan Jones, said: "This name change represents a huge step for the club as we look to move towards the modern terminology around women's football.

Many clubs are taking this step, and Swindon Town are joining this group as we look to push the women's game forward, into a brighter, more positive and more inclusive future.

"I'm proud to be part of this new chapter in the club's history."

The club's first match under its new moniker will come this weekend, as they take on Abingdon United WFC at New College, Swindon.

Club captain Polly New said: "Changing the club's name from Swindon Town Ladies to Women is a massive step forward for us. As the top division clubs and leagues are all branded as ‘Women's', it puts us on the same page.

Highlighting the example of the recent FIFA Women's World Cup, in which support and viewership of the England national team reached unprecedented levels, New said the environment was ripe for new engagement with the sport.

She said: "Women's football has definitely witnessed a turning point in these last few months, with everyone, young to old, getting behind the sport - this means those of us involved in the female sport are finally seeing it get the recognition it deserves.

"For me the new ‘W' in our name doesn't only stand for ‘Women' - it stands for working together, within a team, winning together, but most of all standing together as a whole squad, to bring everyone in as one."

Club chairman, Martin Wheeler, said the move was a big step for the club he has been involved in for more than quarter of a century, and which has been central to the growth of women's football in Swindon.

He said: "With the growth of interest in the sport, and the increased involvement of the Football Association, the game has modernised its image and re-branded itself as women's football.

"Therefore it is appropriate that as a club we move with the times and take on the name of Swindon Town Women."

However Swindon have been dealt a blow with the news that manager Dan Jones has been forced to step down from the post due to a family illness. The club is set to announce his replacement in the near future.

The Wiltshire side were without a game on the opening day of the season due to there being an odd number of teams in Division One South West. They are set to make their bow this coming Sunday when they take on Milton Keynes Dons in the Determining Round of the League Cup at their Cinder Lane home.

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk

Shoosmiths partner with Scottish FA The growth of the girls' and women's game in Scotland has received a significant boost thanks to a new partnership between the Scottish FA and Shoosmiths.

The four-year deal will see one of the UK's leading law firms help to develop a number of different aspects of the girls' and women's game in Scotland.

It comes in the wake of the country's historic first appearance at a FIFA Women's World Cup, where they narrowly missed out on a place in the knockout stages.

The deal - which will run until the summer of 2023 - will support the development of girls' and women's football as the Scottish FA looks to build on the momentum generated over the past few years.

As part of the partnership, Shoosmiths will support the recruitment of 200 female coaches and 20 new female referees.

Shoosmiths is a UK law firm with 13 locations around the UK (including Edinburgh and Glasgow) operating across a wide range of legal disciplines, coupled with deep industry sector expertise. Its clients range from PLCs, mid-sized businesses through to fast-growth companies, in-house legal teams at global corporates, as well as private individuals.

Scotland Women's National Team Head Coach Shelley Kerr welcomed the news at the official launch of the partnership at Shoosmiths' offices in Edinburgh.

"The girls' and women's game is experiencing a period of unprecedented interest across the nation and Shoosmiths' commitment to help continue this growth as an official partner is a timely boost," she said.

"The World Cup was an amazing experience and one that we hope will inspire young Scottish girls to play football in the future.

"We also hope that the team's success will inspire women to become involved in the sport in a number of other different roles apart from the playing side, such as coaching and refereeing.

"To have the support of a law firm such as Shoosmiths means a lot to us and will help us continue to develop the game across the country."

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive, said: "It gives me great pleasure to welcome Shoosmiths to the ever growing family of partners of the girls' and women's game in Scotland.

"Shoosmiths becomes the latest organisation to commit itself to developing the girls' and women's games across the country, which is testament to the good work which has already been conducted.

"The progress Shelley and the team have made in recent years has been magnificent and we want them to continue their achievements and inspire the nation.

"This partnership will not only help the women's national team but also other areas, which help to perpetuate the growth of the game at all levels."

Simon Boss, CEO of Shoosmiths, said: "As a firm with a wide footprint across the UK, we are thrilled to be partnering with the Scottish FA to support the development of both girls' and women's football.

"Diversity and inclusion are key to the ethos of Shoosmiths, as is developing the talent within our firm.

"So to be able to support the development of coaches and referees whose contribution is so vital to the game, and who can be role models for the future generation of players, is an absolute pleasure and an excellent fit for us.

"We look forward to working with the teams and individuals to build on the success of girls' and women's' football."

Janette Speed, partner and head of Shoosmiths' Edinburgh office added: "It's an honour to play a small part in inspiring girls and women to reach their true potential and realise their ambitions.

"This partnership underlines Shoosmiths' commitment to diversity, social mobility and crucially, equality of opportunity.

"Drawing on our collective expertise and drive, we are really excited about helping girls and women to take part at every level and develop their talents on and off the pitch." (www.scottishfa.co.uk)

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk

Scotland Under-17 squad Scotland Women's Under-17s head coach Pauline MacDonald has selected a squad of 18 players for two qualification warm-up matches against Slovenia.

The team will be using these matches for preparation ahead of their UEFA Qualifying Round in October.

The friendlies will take place on Wednesday 28th August (3.30pm) and Saturday 31st August (10am), both at Oriam Indoor Pitch, Edinburgh.

Scotland Under-17 squad: Lynsey Baillie (Celtic), Eilidh Begg (Heart of Midlothian), Tegan Bowie (Celtic), Monica Forsyth (Celtic), Neve Guthrie (Dundee Utd), Addie Hanley (Boroughmuir Thistle), Bayley Hutchison (Aberdeen), Rachael Johnstone (Celtic), Freya MacDonald (Rangers), Paige McAllister (Celtic), Rebecca McAllister (Celtic), Robyn McCafferty (Spartans), Rosie McQuillan (Rangers), Kate Nicolson (Celtic), Kirsty O’Brien (Celtic), Jenna Penman (Dundee Utd), Eva Thomson (Aberdeen), Alicia Yates (Hibernian).

Beginner Girls Festival success On Sunday 11th August at SGP Thorncliffe, the Sheffield & Hallamshire FA launched their first of many ‘beginner girl festivals’. The festival partnered with five Wildcat centres across the county and also invited girls who were outside of the programme to join in and be part of a wildcat centre for the day.

The aim of the event is to give girls an opportunity to play football in a festival environment which involves a day full of fun and football. This event also gives a chance to mix current Wildcat participants with girls who are not involved into the programme. By doing this, the girls are given the opportunity to experience Wildcats with a centre that is nearby to where they live. Through creating this pathway, the SHCFA hope to encourage more girls into the game as well as supporting their current Wildcat centres.

Mike Drummond, Youth Development Officer for the SHCFA, said: “Overall, the day was a great success and they are looking forward to creating many more of these festivals in the new season. The SHCFA would also like to thank Sheffield United Community Coaches who run the carousel of activities and games that were perfect for aims of the event.”

Throughout the summer, the Wildcats programme has been growing from strength to strength with 38 centres actively running across Sheffield & Hallamshire. Wildcats was an initiative set up by The FA to give girls an opportunity to experience football in an all-girl environment.

The design of the programme gives girls an opportunity to play football, have fun, and make friends in a non-competitive environment. Wildcats is a brilliant way in allowing young girls the chance to experience football for the first time in a positive environment. By doing this it is much more likely to keep girls in the game for a longer period of time.

The SHCFA looks forward to creating more of these festivals in the future to give girls from across the county a chance to experience a football festival format with the values from the Wildcat Programme.

(Source: www.sheffieldfa.com)

Women’s Beginners Festivals return The Oxfordshire FA is delighted to announce the return of their Women’s Beginners Festivals for the 2019-20 season.

As the County FA continues to support the increase in adult female players enjoying football across Oxfordshire, a total of FOUR Women’s Beginners Festivals will be taking place during the course of the season to enable players to try football and get involved in a few friendly games.

Whether you’re a complete novice or somebody who hasn’t played for a while, the Women’s Beginners Festivals are an ideal opportunity to get involved in football. Teams of friends or family can sign up, as long as everyone is aged over 16. Meanwhile, individuals are also encouraged to attend. Oxfordshire FA will link individuals up with a team on the day, to ensure that as many people have an opportunity to play as possible.

Save the following dates, on which our festivals will be taking place: 22 September 2019, 17 November 2019, 23 February 2020, 17 May 2020 (all from 1.30pm to 4.00pm) The festivals cost JUST £3 per-person per-festival.

To sign up as a team or individual, please contact James Shiplee, Football Development Officer at Oxfordshire FA, via development@oxfordshirefa.com or call (01993) 894403.

(Source: www.oxfordshirefa.com)

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk

Cup News Washington Association 0 Redcar Town 13 Wakefield Trinity 0 Farsley Celtic 3 Notts County 11 Cleethorpes Town 1 Port Vale 9 Lye Town 0 Corby Town 1 Bungay Town 2 New London Lionesses 5 Comets 4 Bishop's Stortford 1 Hartham Utd 5 Ashford Town (Middx) 4 Denham Utd 1 Burgess Hill Town 3 Eastbourne Utd 2 Penrith AFC v Bishop Auckland Boro Rangers v South Shields Carlisle United v Hartlepool Utd Redcar Town v Lumley Ladies Blyth Town v Workington Reds Alnwick Town v Sunderland West End Wetherby Athletic v Harrogate Town Ossett United v Rotherham Utd Ripon City v Yorkshire Amateur Bridlington Rovers v Bradford Park Avenue Hepworth Utd v Pride Park Ladies Farsley Celtic v Thackley Oughtbridge WM v Sheffield Wednesday Blackburn Community v West Kirby Northwich Vixens v Bury FC Women Curzon Ashton v Mossley Hill Tameside Utd v Fleetwood Town Wrens Manchester Stingers v Merseyrail Ladies FC United of Manchester v Tranmere Rovers Accrington Girls & Ladies v Altrincham Didsbury v West Didsbury & Chorlton Accrington Stanley v Morecambe Wythenshawe Amateurs v Crewe Alexandra Boston Utd v Loughborough Students AFC Leicester v Grimsby Borough Rise Park v Notts County Coalville Town v Hykeham Town Worksop Town v Mansfield Town Dronfield Town v Leicester City Lutterworth Athletic v Chesterfield Sherwood Women v Arnold Eagles Oadby & Wigston v Lincoln Moorlands Railway Arnold Town v Woodlands Ladies Kidderminster Harriers v Leek Town Port Vale v Knowle Solihull Sporting v Rugby Town Crusaders v Sandwell Ladies Tamworth v Shrewsbury Town Kingfisher v Cookley Sports Kidsgrove Athletic v Solihull Ladies Utd Coundon Court v Sutton Coldfield Town

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Wyrley v Shifnal Town Stockingford AA Pavilion v Stourbridge Coventry Sphinx v AFC Telford Utd Wroxham v Kettering Town Haverhill Rovers v King's Lynn Town St Ives Town v Histon AFC Sudbury v Harlow Town Riverside LFC v Bungay Town Peterborough United v Thrapston Town Fulbourn Bluebirds v Wymondham Town Netherton United v Newmarket Town Clapton Community v Margate Aylesford v Dulwich Hamlet Fulham v New London Lionesses Dartford v Hackney Whyteleafe v Millwall Lionesses Victoire Ladies v Herne Bay Meridian v Regents Park Rangers Sutton Utd v Islington Borough Phoenix Sports v Haringey Borough Long Lane v Ashford LFC Watford Development v Hemel Hempstead Town Hitchin Belles v Bowers & Pitsea Royston Town v Wodson Park Bedford Ladies v Colney Heath Houghton Athletic v AFC Dunstable Hartham Utd v St Albans City Luton Town v Leigh Ramblers Abbey Rangers v Hampton & Richmond Borough QPR Development v Wargrave Ladies Banbury Utd v Walton Casuals Abingdon Utd v Brentford Ascot Utd v Abingdon Town Ashford Town (Middx) v Oxford City Wantage Town v Wycombe Wanderers Steyning Town v Newhaven Oakwood v AFC Littlehampton Pagham v Worthing Godalming Town v Eastbourne Town Milford & Witley v Tunbridge Wells Foresters Burgess Hill Town v Saltdean Utd Mole Valley v Bexhill Utd New Milton Town v Newbury Ladies Shanklin v Alton Ladies Bournemouth Sports v Winchester City Flyers Eastleigh v Moneyfields AFC Bournemouth v Feniton Almondsbury v Longlevens Weston-super-Mare v Middlezoy Rovers AEK Boco v Ilminster Town Sherborne Town v Keynsham Town Development Wootton Bassett Town v Chipping Sodbury Town Swindon Spitfires v Portishead Town

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

Bideford v St Agnes Marine Academy Plymouth v AFC St Austell Torquay Utd v RNAS Culdrose

Rangers 6 Glasgow Girls 0 Hutchison Vale 0 Inverness Caledonian Thistle 5 Hibernian 5 Stirling University 0 Aberdeen FC Women v FC Kilmarnock Celtic v St Johnstone Forfar Farmington v Rangers Glasgow City v Dundee City Hamilton Academical v Clyde Hearts v Hibernian Motherwell v Inverness Caledonian Thistle Queen's Park v Dunfermline Athletic

South Shields 11 Tynedale 1 Chester-le-Street Development 4 Prudhoe Town 2 Sunderland West End 6 Norton & Stockton Res 2 Wallsend BC 6 Blyth Town 1 Lumley Ladies 3 Consett 0 Sheffield Wednesday 2 Hepworth Utd 0 York RI 7 Bridlington Rovers 4 Ossett Utd P-P York City

Corwen v Prestatyn Town Llanberis v Connah's Quay Nomads Cardiff Bluebirds v Baglan BGC Newport City v Swansea University Bethel v Airbus UK Broughton Corwen or Prestatyn Town v Llandudno Denbigh Town v Northop Hall Girls Llanberis or Connah's Quay Nomads v Pwllheli Llanfair United v Amlwch Town Rhyl v Wrexham Aberystwyth Town v Cascade Barry Town United v Cardiff Bluebirds or Baglan Briton Ferry Llansawel v Cardiff City Coed Duon Dragons v Cardiff Bluebelles Cyncoed v Cardiff Met Merthyr Town v Abergavenny Town Newport City or Swansea Univ v Port Talbot Town Penybont v Caldicot Town Swansea City v Dafen Tredegar Town v Aberdare Town

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Chorley v Leafield Athletic The New Saints v Leicester Utd Sunderland v Newcastle Utd West Bromwich Albion v Barnsley Burton Albion v Derby County Brighouse Town v Loughborough Foxes Doncaster Rovers Belles v Sheffield FC Norton & Stockton Ancients v Hull City Solihull Moors v Fylde Ladies Birmingham & WM v Bolton Wanderers Bedworth Utd v Stockport County Wolverhampton Wanderers v Sporting Khalsa Bradford City v Liverpool Feds Huddersfield Town v Nottingham Forest Leeds Utd v Burnley FC Women Durham Cestria v Middlesbrough Long Eaton Utd v Chester-le-Street Town Lincoln City v Stoke City Swindon Town v Milton Keynes Dons Exeter City v Plymouth Argyle Portsmouth v Watford Chesham Utd v Brislington Maidenhead Utd v Cardiff City Ladies Keynsham Town v Buckland Athletic Southampton FC v Ipswich Town Hounslow Women v Gillingham Kent Football Utd v AFC Basildon Stevenage Ladies v Yeovil Town Enfield Town v Norwich City Billericay Town v Cheltenham Town Southampton Women v Poole Town Leyton Orient v Cambridge Utd Chichester City v Cambridge City Actonians Ladies v AFC Wimbledon Oxford Utd v Crawley Wasps Bye - Larkhall Athletic

Arnold Eagles v Ilkeston Town Peterborough Utd v Beaumont Park Arnold Town v Sleaford Town Boston Utd v Leicester City Ladies Oadby & Wigston v Cleethorpes Town Corby Town v Chesterfield Mansfield Town v Oughtibridge WM Ollerton Town v Kettering Town Loughborough Students v Thrapston Town Woodlands Ladies v Notts County Development Loughborough Foxes Vixens v Notts County Rotherham Utd v Worksop Town Northampton Town v Rise Park Lutterworth Athletic v Lincoln Moorlands Railway

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

Women’s football grows across the islands The Jersey Football Association and the Guernsey Football Association are pleased to announce the extension of the Women’s Channel Islands League for the forthcoming season.

The league, launched as an experiment last year in Jersey, will see one new team involved in 2019-20, with Guernsey Ladies FC entering, and for the first time matches will be played in both islands, with all six teams playing each other home and away.

The league also has a sponsor for the first time, with backing from Condor Ferries, who will be helping with inter-island travel arrangements for the teams involved.

The two associations say the development of the competition is a significant step in the progress of the women’s game in both islands.

Jersey Football Association CEO Jean-Luc Desbois said: “On the back of a hugely successful Women’s World Cup, we hope local players will embrace this expanded new inter-insular competition.

“We’re pleased to be working closely with our colleagues in Guernsey to offer Channel Islands’ women the opportunity to test themselves against different opposition.

“The Condor Ferries Women’s Channel Islands League is an exciting new innovation and is part of our wider strategic plan to modernise Jersey football.”

Guernsey FA director James Falla said: “We and the Jersey Football Association have had an ambition to work together on a Channel Islands domestic structure for women for the past three years. It has taken longer than we would have hoped to reach this stage, but we look forward to seeing this competition develop and flourish over the next few years.

“The GFA is delighted to have secured significant support for the league from Condor Ferries. The cost of travel could be prohibitive for a pan-island set up, but Condor’s backing makes it much easier to get the league started, and then hopefully to grow. We thank them for their enthusiasm for the project.”

Paul Luxon, CEO at Condor Ferries, said: “We are pleased to provide backing for the Women’s Channel Islands League through our newly-established Community Fund, and this is part of our ongoing commitment to improve inter-island links for sport and other events.”

The six teams involved in the Condor Ferries Women’s Channel Islands League will be Guernsey Ladies FC and North Ladies (who were last season’s winners as Ormer Ladies) from Guernsey, and JTC Jersey Wanderers, St Lawrence, Rozel Rovers and Grouville from Jersey. The season is expected to begin on 1st September, with the first round of inter-island matches primarily played between then and midOctober.

Both the Guernsey FA and Jersey FA offer significant support and opportunities for girls’ and women’s football in the islands, and look forward to seeing an increase in participation following England’s strong showing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. (Source: www.jerseyfa.com)

MP champions girls football Eddie Hughes, MP for Walsall North, spent a morning with the Staffordshire FA and The FA to learn more about the work going into widening participation and improving grassroots facilities in Walsall.

During his visit, Eddie, who is also a member of the Women and Equalities Select Committee, cheered on an SSE Wildcats Girls Football festival hosted by the Staffordshire FA and Sporting Khalsa FC and learnt about the impact that investment in women and girls’ football is having on opening up the game for all. Over 50 girls from across four local clubs took part in the festival to show off skills that rivalled the England Lionesses.

This visit is part of the new #FootballFootprint campaign that is being run by The FA, the not-forprofit national governing body for football in England, in conjunction with local County FAs. The campaign is giving MPs an opportunity to meet with the army of workers and volunteers that make grassroots football possible at a local level and to visit showcase sites, initiatives and matches.

Eddie Hughes MP said: “It was great to have the opportunity to see how The FA and Staffordshire FA are working to increase the opportunities for girls to have a positive experience of football from an early age. It is important that we continue to build on this work to make grassroots football as inclusive as possible. I was honoured to be awarded with the FA’s Grassroots Champion award today as part of The FA’s #FootballFootprint Campaign and I’m proud to support the great work that is being done here in Walsall.”

Kevin Staples, Head of Strategy & Investment at Staffordshire FA, said: “We were delighted to show Eddie some of the great work being done locally to support women and girls football at a grassroots level.

It’s thanks to our committed staff and volunteers that we are able to deliver a diverse and fun grassroots game for thousands of players week in, week out.”

(Source: www.staffordshirefa.com)

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk

(above) Glasgow City striker Clare Shine holds off the attentions of Celtic’s Chloe Craig (Tommy Hughes). (below) Rachel Taylor of Doncaster Rovers Belles takes on Leafield Athletic’s Michelle McCormack (Julian Barker).

Issue no. 1 - 22 August 2019

news@womenssoccerscene.co.uk

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