Stevenage earn a 4-1 victory over Barking and advance to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup Back Match Report Barking v Stevenage Stevenage earn a 4-1 victory over Barking and advance to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup Edward Payne 1 March 2023 Barry Rust Stevenage FCW advanced to the quarter finals of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League Cup after a comfortable victory over the imperious Barking Ladies, who have a strong grip at the top of the division below. Boro’, who currently sit atop the Premier Division, had shown tremendous professionalism in seeing off the challenge of the Essex side and secured yet another game against Royston Town Ladies – a side they will have faced no less than four times by the end of the season. Boro’ found their rhythm immediately. Rosy Wodhams – the eventual Player of the Match - set the tone when she curled in a phenomenal right footed cross into the path of top scorer, Amy Makewell who could not quite stretch high enough to make contact with the ball. Five minutes later, Stevenage were ahead. Lucy Webster took a short throw to Makewell who turned and hooked a tasty ball into the eighteen yard box. Adella Jackson called for the ball but could not claim it through the growing crowd and the ball dropped to the feet of Emily Schofield who would make no mistake from close range for her first cup goal since the County Cup Final of 2022. Schofield was on a mission from that point onward and the hard-working forward nearly doybled the scoreline with an absolute thunderbolt from her right foot that crashed off the crossbar to safety. At the opposite end Barking were spurred into action as they took advantage of a stray ball. Sarah Finch foreshadowed later events as she had two attempts in quick succession, both of which were bravely blocked by the consistent Nicole Farmer. Photo: Edward Payne After a lull in opportunities Stevenage carved out another opportunity, this time down the left flank. Wodhams put Makewell through, but she was unable to turn her marker. Instead she laid the ball off to Schofield at the edge of the box who received her reward as she expertly placed the ball into the bottom right corner, beyond Jackson. Barking were stunned into action. Their best chance came from a fantastic effort by Finch, that was turned behind by Mia O’Brien for a corner. The ball was swung in and Finch finally stuck the ball into the net to reduce the arrears. Stevenage were determined to restore their advantage though. The continual energy of the team was on display as Wodhams won the ball back high up the pitch and advanced into the box. Her attempted pass deflected back into her path creating an opportunity which the young midfielder took without question, firing Boro’ back into a two goal lead. Webster saw an opportunity fly over the bar before the halftime whistle, but it was her shot after it that led to the final goal of the game. Her excellent run into the box gave her the perfect opportunity to shoot. The captain did exactly that but the goalkeeper could not hold it and as it squirmed through her hands, Makewell pounced to put the fixture to bed. Photo: Edward Payne The rest of the match was notable for missed opportunities but also for a celebratory reason as Jess Poulter became the first player from the ETC (Emerging Talent Centre) at Stevenage to play for the first team. This was announced in September as the FA chose Stevenage to host one of the centres and this was a landmark moment for the club. Manager Fadi Mazloum was content at the final whistle as he said “We controlled the game well and didn’t give them the chance to play. Jess controls the game well at CDM for the development side and you could see that in some of the tackles she made when she came on.” Poulter herself remarked, “I was hopeful I could get some time to show what I can do. I really enjoyed it.” A feeling that was no doubt shared by the whole Boro’ team as they travelled back to Hertfordshire. Line-ups Barking XI: A Jackson, Thomas, Daly, Cook, Oxby, Holt, Colthart, F Pridie, Finch, Bunton, C Jackson Subs: Cooper, N Pridie, Retim, McCarthy Goal: Finch Stevenage XI: O’Brien, Webster (c), Neal, Farmer, Nebbitt, Bodily, Wodhams, Shephard, Schofield, Millen, Makewell Subs: Price, Bellinger, Poulter, Lightning, Fidler Goals: Schofield x 2, Wodhams, Makewell

London giants Arsenal and Chelsea face off in the Conti Cup final, here's all you need to know Back Match Preview Conti Cup Final: 2023 Bumper Preview London giants Arsenal and Chelsea face off in the Conti Cup final, here's all you need to know Edward Payne 4 March 2023 By Paul Donegan The 2023 FA Women’s League Cup (Conti Cup) final takes place at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park on Sunday 5th March (kick off 3pm GMT) between London rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. Arsenal have won the Conti Cup a record five times whilst Chelsea are two times winners. This will be the West London sides fourth appearance in a row in the showpiece event. For the Gunners, it is the first time since 2020 they have reached the final. Arsenal will be looking to win their first silverware since 2019. In the last four years, Chelsea have won eight trophies. The final is a 24,000 sell out, so it looks like the record attendance set of last year of 8,004 for the final and competition is going to be broken! Here is our guide to the final including information about how Arsenal and Chelsea reached Selhurst Park, the two squads, the stadium and transport, and TV/radio coverage. How they got to the final Both sides didn’t enter the Conti Cup until the quarter-final stage due to playing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. In the last eight, Chelsea travelled to Tottenham Hotspur where they won 3-1. Sam Kerr scored twice and Fran Kirby got the other for the Blues. They faced another London derby in the semi-final when they were drawn to play West Ham United away. The side from West London won 7-0 with Kerr scoring four this time. The other goals were scored by Kirby, Lauren James and Guro Reiten. Arsenal have had two home ties at Meadow Park as they reached the final. In the quarter-finals, they beat Aston Villa 3-0. Frida Leonhardsen Maanum was the star of the show and scored twice with Caitlin Foord getting the other goal. In the semi-final they took on holders Manchester City and with the scores being level at 0-0 after 90 minutes, the match went to extra-time. Stina Blackstenius scored the only goal in the 93rd minute for the Gunners as they won 1-0. Past Meetings The sides have faced each other twice this season already. In January, they drew 1-1 at the Emirates Stadium in the WSL. Kim Little opened the scoring from the penalty spot for Arsenal before Sam Kerr scored a late equaliser for Chelsea. They played each other in the FA Cup fifth round last weekend at Kingsmeadow. Chelsea won that tie 2-0 with Sophie Ingle and Kerr scoring the goals. In the Conti Cup, there have been five meetings between the sides with Arsenal winning three of them and Chelsea two. Their only previous meeting in the final of this competition was in 2020 which Chelsea won 2-1 thanks to Bethany England’s late winner. Photo: Edward Payne Arsenal Arsenal normally play in a 4-3-3 formation but head coach Jonas Eidevall did change to 3-4-3 in two recent games against Manchester City. Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema are both unavailable due to long-term injuries, and Gio is cup-tied after playing for Everton earlier in the season in the Conti Cup. Eidevall confirmed in his pre-final press conference that no other players are ready to return yet so this probably rules out Teyah Goldie. In goal, Manuela Zinsberger has been number one for most of this season but January signing Sabrina D’Angelo has played in both Conti Cup games. D’Angelo picked up an injury whilst on international duty with Canada recently and Eidevall said on Friday that she is progressing but not sure whether she’ll be available. Kaylan Marckese is another goalkeeper that can be called upon. Noelle Maritz or Laura Wienroither normally play on the right side of defence for the Gunners. In central defence, it will probably be two from Leah Williamson, Rafaelle, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Jen Beattie. Both Steph Catley and Katie McCabe can play on the left side of the back four. Lia Walti normally plays in the defensive midfield role though Williamson can also play in this position. Captain and penalty specialist Kim Little plays a bit further forward in the middle of the pitch, and Frida Leonhardsen Maanum has been playing as an attacking midfielder recently. Two January signings, Victoria Pelova and Kathrine Khul, are other midfielders that could be involved in the final. From those available, the attacking wide positions are normally filled by Lina Hurtig (who Eidevall confirmed is in contention after a recent injury), Caitlin Foord and McCabe. Stina Blackstenius normally plays in the centre furthest forward though Foord can also play here. Youngster Michelle Agyemang can also play in attacking roles. Photo: Edward Payne Chelsea Emma Hayes has typically lined Chelsea up in a 4-2-3-1 formation this season. Hayes confirmed in her pre-final press conference on Friday that “the same number of players are available this week as last week”. Pernille Harder, Katerina Svitkova and Fran Kirby will all miss the final with injuries. There doesn’t seem to be a number one goalkeeper with both Zecira Musovic and Ann-Katrin Berger starting a fair share of games each. Emily Orman is another goalkeeper in the squad. Eve Perisset is a regular starter at right back. The two central defenders could come from Millie Bright, Kadeisha Buchanan and captain Magdalena Eriksson. Eriksson has also been a frequent starter at left back this season. Chelsea have a couple of versatile defenders with Jess Carter who can play anywhere across the back and Niamh Charles who can play in either full back position. Other defenders that might be involved include Maren Mjelde (can also play in midfield) and Alsu Abdullina. In midfield, Sophie Ingle normally occupies the defensive position while Erin Cuthbert always seems to be everywhere. With Fran Kirby injured, Jelena Cankovic played in the attacking midfield position last week. Melanie Leupolz and Jessie Fleming are other players who could feature in midfield for the Blues. The attacking three normally consists of Lauren James, who was recently Player of the Tournament in the Arnold Clark Cup after her performances for the Lionesses, and Guro Reiten in the wide positions with Sam Kerr furthest forward. Kerr may have only played two games in this season’s Conti Cup so far but is already top scorer in the competition with six goals, and has also scored in the last two finals. Johanna Rytting Kaneryd is an alternative for James and Reiten. Selhurst Park Selhurst Park Stadium is in South London, just north of Croydon. The stadium opened in 1924 and has been the home of Crystal Palace FC ever since. The current Main Stand was designed by Archibald Leitch and opened at the same time as the ground. The stadium hosted two football matches during the 1948 Summer Olympics. Two clubs, Charlton Athletic FC and Wimbledon FC, had spells groundsharing at Selhurst Park between 1985 and 2003. The Women’s FA Cup final was held here in 2001, 2002 and 2003 but this will be the first time the Conti Cup final has taken place at this stadium. Selhurst Park consists of four separate stands. They are the Main Stand, Holmesdale Road Stand (Arsenal end), Arthur Wait Stand and Whitehorse Lane Stand (Chelsea end). The capacity of the ground is 25,486. Turnstiles into the stadium open at 1pm, two hours before kick-off. Bags small enough to fit under seats can be taken in but will be searched. The stadium is cashless so only debit/credit card payments are accepted for food/drink inside it. Programmes will be available to buy from outlets around the stadium. It is encouraged supporters travel by public transport. The closest railway stations to the stadium are Norwood Junction (due to engineering works will only be served by a replacement bus on Sunday), Thornton Heath and Selhurst which are all about a 10/15 minute walk from the stadium. The latter two are served by trains from central London (Victoria station), Clapham Junction and Croydon. A number of bus routes pass close to the ground including the numbers 50, 75, 130, 157, 198 and 468. There is no spectator parking available at the ground. There is limited parking for accessible users only which must be prebooked. Several residential streets surrounding the stadium are now permitted to permit holders only so check if parking nearby. Free cycle parking is provide on-site from three hours before kick-off. Head to the CPFC Information Point (Entrance 9) for bicycle parking instructions. Photo: Edward Payne Fan Zone The fan zone will be open from midday in the main car park by entrance 10. Match Officials The referee for the final is Kirsty Dowle and she will be assisted by Ceri Williams and Sophie Dennington. The fourth official is Lou Saunders and Abby Dearden is the reserve assistant referee. TV/Radio coverage In the UK, the final will be shown live on BBC One/Sport Website/iPlayer with coverage starting at 2:25pm (GMT). There is live radio commentary of the final on talkSPORT 2. Their coverage starts at 2pm (GMT). Outside of the UK, it will also be available to watch live on the FA Player.

Barcelona beat Chelsea 2-0 after controversial decisions at sell out Stamford Bridge Back Match Report "Worst decision in UWCL history" slams Hayes as Chelsea bow out of the competition Barcelona beat Chelsea 2-0 after controversial decisions at sell out Stamford Bridge Chelsea FCW 28 April 2024 By Paul Donegan Chelsea lost 2-0 on the night and the tie 2-1 on aggregate to holders Barcelona amid refereeing controversy in the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final second leg on Saturday evening at Stamford Bridge. Aitana Bonmati and Fridolina Rolfo found the net for the Spanish side whilst Kadeisha Buchanan was sent off for the Blues on the hour mark after picking up two quick yellow cards, the second of which Chelsea manager Emma Hayes described as the “worst decision in UWCL history”. Some of the other decisions by the officials could also be questioned but the Blues also didn’t take the chances they had during the match. The sold-out attendance of 39,398 was a record for a Chelsea women’s match. The home side had the first real opening of the match in the 4th minute but Catarina Macario’s pass towards Lauren James was overhit. Three minutes later, another pass from the Blues didn’t find its intended target, this time from Melanie Leupolz. As the rain started to fall, a cross from the visitors was headed clear by Sjoeke Nusken, then their captain Patri Guijarro couldn’t control the ball and saw it go wide. After scoring the only goal in the first leg for Chelsea, Erin Cuthbert had another chance from the edge of the area but this one flew well over in the 16th minute. In the 22nd minute, the hosts goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was forced into a save when she stopped Caroline Graham Hansen’s shot from the edge of the area. Barcelona took the lead on the night and levelled the tie in the 24th minute when Bonmati’s shot from just inside the area deflected off Buchanan and into the net. Some nice build up play from the visitors on the half-hour mark involving Bonmati and Graham Hansen finished the ball being put behind for a corner by Cuthbert. The hosts had a great chance to level on the night in the 31st minute when James passed back to Leupolz but she hit the crossbar from 6-yards out, but the offside flag was up so it wouldn’t have counted anyway. Ashley Lawrence’s curling effort for the Blues was blocked, then Catalina Coll made a good low save to push Macario’s half volley behind. In the 38th minute, James couldn’t get her foot on Nusken’s low cross across goal then Cuthbert blasted over as Chelsea continued their good response after going behind. Two minutes before the break, Barca’s Graham Hansen turned just outside the area then saw her shot deflected over for a corner. In the final minute of the half, Rolfo aimed a curling effort at goal but this went past the angle of post and bar. The Swedish international had the final chance before the break for the Spanish side but this time she dragged her shot wide. The rain seemed to have got heavier at the start of the second period, and the had the first opportunity of the half but Coll got to Johanna Rytting Kaneryd’s low cross just before Nusken. Barcelona appealed for a penalty after a player went down after a Nusken challenge before the ball was cleared. Ona Batlle then fired well over for the visitors. James played a great ball to Lawrence who passed to Nusken and she saw her effort hit the outside of the post in the 57th minute as the hosts came close again to levelling on the night and going ahead in the tie. Buchanan was sent off for the Blues in the 59th minute after she picked up her second yellow card within minutes when she committed what referee Iuliana Demetrescu deemed a foul on Guijarro meaning the hosts had to play the last half-hour with 10 players. Almost immediately after the sending off, Salma Paralluelo headed over for Barca. Ona Battle’s low shot was saved by Hampton in the 66th minute, then at the other end as Chelsea attacked quickly, Rytting Kaneryd saw her curling effort from the edge of the area saved. Nusken whipped in a dangerous cross for the hosts but this was headed clear. Barcelona were awarded a penalty in the 73rd minute after Bonmati had gone down after a tangle with Lawrence. After a VAR check confirmed the decision, Rolfo sent Hampton the wrong way from the spot to put the visitors ahead on aggregate. Millie Bright came on in the 84th minute for her first appearance in five months to play up front as Chelsea looked for a goal to level the tie. Barca however slowed the match down with some tactical play in most of the remaining time. Eve Perisset’s deep free kick for the Blues in the third minute of stoppage time went through everyone in the penalty area and behind for a goal kick. Hampton stopped a Paralluelo effort with her leg deep into additional time as the Spanish side looked for a third goal. A final cross from Agnes Beever-Jones was claimed by the Barca goalkeeper before the referee blew the final whistle and the holders reached the final for the fourth season in a row. When speaking to the media after the match, Hayes started by praising the sold-out crowd say they were “tremendous” and gave as much support as they could. Later, she added that she hopes they keep coming back to watch the side. On the Blues performance, she felt Barcelona had a strong first half and are a top team, but her side were getting on top after the break and were confident before Buchanan’s sending off. Hayes was scathing on the referee’s performance, saying she made a “horrific decision” and is gutted for her players and feels robbed. She remarked a number of times that decisions against them meant they “didn’t have the opportunity to lose the game as that was taken away”. Barcelona head coach Jonatan Giraldez thought it was a “really difficult game” against a side with “amazing players and an amazing coach”. On the officiating, Giraldez said “it is part of the game” and the most important thing is about managing emotions when winning or losing and his side were better than Chelsea at that. He was happy with his sides performance and felt they “were better and created more chances”. He added qualifying for another final is a big achievement for them. Line-ups Chelsea (3-5-2): Hampton, Carter, Buchanan, Charles (c), Rytting Kaneryd (Bright 84’), Cuthbert, Leupolz (Beever-Jones 76’), Nusken, Lawrence (Perisset 84’), James (Kirby 84’), Macario (Reiten 63’) Unused substitutes: Musovic, Ingle, Mielde, Cankovic, Bjorn Booked – Buchanan, Charles Sent off – Buchanan 59’ Barcelona (3-5-2): Cata Coll, Ona Batlle (Mariona Caldentey 67’), Irene Paredes, Engen, Bronze, Aitana Bonmati (Alexia Putellas 90’+2), Walsh, Patri Guijarro(c), Rolfo, Graham Hansen (Claudia Pina 86’), Salma Paralluelo Unused substitutes: Sandra Panos, Gemma Font, Jana Fernandez, Marta Torrejon, Bruna Vilamala, Brugts, Vicky Lopez, Martina Goals – Aitana Bonmati 25’, Rolfo (pen) 75’ Referee – Iuliana Demetrescu Attendance – 39,398

Liverpool progress to the FA Cup quarter finals after a comfortable win over London City Lionesses Back Match Report Two goals for Liverpool sees the Reds sail through Liverpool progress to the FA Cup quarter finals after a comfortable win over London City Lionesses Adam Mitten 13 February 2024 By Paul Donegan Liverpool were 2-0 winners over London City Lionesses in the FA Cup fifth round on Sunday at Princes Park. The Reds goals were scored by Sophie Roman Haug and Mel Lawley. This was Darren Smith’s first match in interim charge of the Pride after Carolina Morace and Nicola Williams had left the club on Wednesday but his side rarely threatened the visitors goal. Liverpool had the first opportunity of the match within the first minute but Roman Haug sent her half volley over the crossbar. In the 3rd minute, Jenna Clark shot over from 30-yards out after being allowed to advance. The visitors continued their early pressure when a Lucy Parry cross into the area was headed clear. From a corner in the 5th minute, Grace Fisk saw an effort cleared off the line. Liverpool deservedly took the lead a minute later when Jasmine Matthews sent in a superb cross from the left side that Roman Haug headed it into the net from close range. In the 12th minute, Matthews found space at the far post but put her effort wide for the visitors. The Reds high tempo start led to another chance seconds later but Lawley saw her shot saved. The visitors defended well to stop Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah from getting a cross in when the home side launched a rare attack in the opening 20 minutes. At the other end, Roman Haug couldn’t get enough on a cross and saw the ball go wide of the post. Another Liverpool cross from the right to the far post was met by Matthews but her effort was deflected behind. In the 23rd minute, Nicole Douglas was unable to sort her feet out and the visitors defence got back to clear the ball. Two minutes later, Lawley’s cross found Ceri Holland but her first time strike was saved by the Pride’s goalkeeper Grace Moloney. Marie Hobinger shot wide a couple of minutes later as the Reds looked to increase their lead. Moloney made a good save in the 29th minute when she dived at full length to stop a Lawley shot from long-range. A corner from the visitors was headed on to the bar by Clark before being scrambled behind in the 35th minute, The hosts put a bit of pressure on the Liverpool defence in the 42nd minute but couldn’t get any shots towards goal. The half time whistle blew with the score still only 1-0 to the away side. An inswinging free kick from Hobinger was clawed away by Moloney as the Reds had the first opportunity of the second half in the 50th minute. A cross from Boye-Hlorkah landed on the roof of the net which was about as close as the home side had come to scoring so far. Roman Haug headed wide following a corner in the 55th minute, then four minutes later, the Norwegian international saw another header go off target. London City Lionesses were more in it during the second half though still not getting many clear opportunities at goal. The Reds made it 2-0 in the 67th minute when a long Rachel Laws kick down the field was flicked on by Roman Haug into Lawley’s path and she hit the ball into the net via the crossbar. Both of Liverpool’s goalscorers were taken off in the 70th minute as Matt Beard made his final substitutions of the afternoon. Lois Joel was unable to get on the end of a cross two minutes later as the home side looked to get back into the match. A corner was then headed off the line by Koivisto. Yana Daniels’ long-range shot in the 80th minute was easily caught by the Pride’s goalkeeper. Mia Enderby put an effort over after a nice move from the visitors. Maddi Wilde had a chance to get a goal back for the hosts during stoppage time but her shot from outside the area went over. Liverpool still had time to hit the side netting after Enderby had been played in by Hobinger, and then they saw an effort from a corner cleared off the line. There were no more goals as the Reds booked their place in the quarter-finals. Line ups London City Lionesses: Moloney, Mukandi, Brougham, Joel (c), Scofield (Satchell 85’), Douglas (Wilde 79’), Fitzgerald, Carter, Culver, Littlejohn (Groves 62’), Boye-Hlorkah Unused substitute s: Cull, Dolby, Bailey, Cowan, Jarrett, Farrelly Liverpool: Laws, Fisk, Fahey (c), Matthews, Nugano, Roman Haug (Kiernan 70’), Lawley (Enderby 70’), Hobinger, Clark (Daniels 56’), Holland (Lundgaard 63’), Parry (Koivisto 56’) Unused substitutes: Spencer, van de Sanden, Bonner Goals – Roman Haug 6’, Lawley 67’ Referee – Chloe-Ann Small

Bristol City earn a 1-0 win on a cold night at The Dripping Pan Back Match Report WC: Lewes v Bristol City Bristol City earn a 1-0 win on a cold night at The Dripping Pan James Boyes 3 March 2023 By Paul Donegan Shania Hayles scored the only goal of the game as Bristol City won 1-0 away at Lewes and moved to the top of the Women’s Championship on Wednesday evening. Scott Booth named the same starting eleven for Lewes from their 6-1 win over Cardiff City in the FA Cup at the weekend. They would line up in what looked like a 3-5-2 formation with Rebecca McKenna and Nat Johnson playing as wing-backs. Bristol City went into the match knowing a draw or win would move them ahead of London City Lionesses and into top spot. Lauren Smith made four changes from their 8-1 defeat to Manchester City in the cup with Abi Harrison, Hayles, Jodie Hutton and Vicky Bruce all coming into the side. On a cold but dry evening at The Dripping Pan, Bristol City’s Grace Clinton had the first effort at goal in the 6th minute but her free kick was easily claimed by Lewes’ goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse. Ellie Mason, who had scored four against Cardiff, had Lewes’ first chance in the 13th minute but her shot from the edge of the area went over. Whitehouse made another save in the 22nd minute to keep out Emily Syme’s effort. Mason cut in from the left-hand side in the 28th minute but her curling shot was caught by the Robins keeper Fran Bentley. A minute later, Rachel Furness’ shot from distance went wide for the visitors. Lewes captain Rhian Cleverly was just unable to finish a dangerous Paula Howells cross at the far post in the 33rd minute. A couple of minutes later, Bristol City had a similar chance but Hayles wasn’t able to get a touch on a good cross from Harrison in front of goal. Gracie Pearce sent a shot side for the visitors, then Kirsty Barton made a vital block on the line to deny Hayles. Lewes had the final chance before half time but Emma Thompson was unable to get her head on a cross, and the first half finished goalless. Hayles fired a shot over the crossbar in the 47th minute as the Robins had the first chance of the second half. Furness had their next chance in the 50th minute but she sent an effort from 18-yards just wide. Furness had another opportunity four minutes later but her header across goal was cleared. Photo: James Boyes The pressure was growing on Lewes now and Bristol City won a succession of corners. From one of these, Vicky Bruce saw a header cleared off the line by Mason in the 57th minute. It felt like a goal was coming for the visitors and indeed they took the lead a minute later. Following another corner which was cleared off the line, the ball finished up with Harrison whose touch found Hayles and she finished low into the corner of the net from 6-yards. Lewes’ first chance of the half came in the 61st minute but Amber-Keegan Stobbs’ effort was saved. Bristol City continued to look dangerous from corners with one being scrambled clear in the 68th minute, and then Bruce seeing her header from another one saved by Whitehouse a few minutes later. Lewes did have a couple of chances to equalise with Howells shooting over after being played through by Stobbs in the 77th minute. Then in the 84th minute, Kenzie Weir saw an effort saved by Bentley. The final chance of the game came the visitors way deep into stoppage time when Whitehouse made a good save to deny Jesse Woolley. The win sees Bristol City move three points clear of London City Lionesses at the top of the Championship with both having played the same number of games. On Sunday, Lewes take on Sunderland at home and Bristol City travel to Hayes Lane to play Crystal Palace. Line ups Lewes (3-5-2): Whitehouse, Stobbs, Cleverly (c), Barton, McKenna, Hazard, Wardlaw, Howells, Johnson, Thompson (Pursey 84’), Mason (Weir 76’) Unused substitutes: Moore, Palmer, Rita, Heria, Copus-Brown, Longhurst, Mushtaq Bristol City (4-3-3): Bentley (c), Powell, Pearce, Layzell, Bruce, Clinton, Syme, Furness (Woolley 65’), Harrison, Hayles, Hutton (Morgan 65’) Unused substitutes: Clark, Cataldo, C. Bull, Wilde, Teisar, Ward Goal – Hayles 58’ Booked – Hutton, Powell Referee – Chloe-Ann Small Attendance - 367

Goals from Sam Kerr and Erin Cuthbert earn Chelsea 2-0 win over the Hammers Back Match Report West Ham face defeat at Kingsmeadow as Chelsea's fortress remains impenetrable Goals from Sam Kerr and Erin Cuthbert earn Chelsea 2-0 win over the Hammers Chelsea FC Women 17 October 2023 By Paul Donegan Chelsea beat West Ham United 2-0 in this London derby in the Women’s Super League on Saturday evening at Kingsmeadow. Sam Kerr scored her first goal of the season in the first half before Erin Cuthbert added a second as the match entered additional time at the end of the second half. The home side had the first chance in the 3rd minute but Kerr’s header from a corner was cleared. Melanie Leupolz had the Blues next effort at goal three minutes later which was easily saved by Mackenzie Arnold. In the 9th minute, Emma Harries put an effort over for the visitors as they had their first opportunity. Back at the other end, Lauren James sent in a dangerous cross which Kerr just couldn’t get her head on. Kerr did have the ball in net in 13th minute but it was disallowed for offside. The Hammers next chance came two minutes later when Lisa Evans’ low shot was saved by Zecira Musovic. Kerr, whilst falling to the ground, put an effort just wide following a James cross in the 32nd minute for the Blues. Chelsea did take the lead in the 36th minute when Kerr headed in Niamh Charles’ delightful cross at the far post. Viviane Asseyi headed just wide for the away side as they came close to scoring an immediate equaliser two minutes after they went behind. The hosts had the final efforts of the first half with Fran Kirby not getting enough contact on Kerr’s cross in the 41st minute. Kirby, on her first start since February, played a fantastic through ball to James but Arnold saved the shot as half time approached. West Ham started the second half well with Riko Ueki seeing an effort deflected behind. The Hammers had a succession of corners with Kirsty Smith seeing an effort tipped over by Musovic after one of these. Ueki then dragged a shot wide from outside the area in the 58th minute. In the 65th minute Chelsea had their first opportunity of the second half, and a good chance to make it 2-0, when James was played in by Ashley Lawrence but saw her shot go inches wide of the post. The Blues had a good spell over the next few minutes creating several chances. Charles deflected cross was saved by Arnold for a corner, and from the corner, Sjoeke Nusken smashed a shot wide. Cuthbert’s long-range free kick was saved by Arnold in the 71st minute as the pressure from the home side continued to come. The next chance for the hosts came in the 79th minute when Cuthbert shot wide from distance. Leupolz was allowed to run forward then sent a shot straight at Arnold from the edge of the area with three minutes left. Cuthbert made it 2-0 to Chelsea just as the match went into stoppage time with a finish from close-range after playing a one-two with Jessie Fleming. Aggie Beever-Jones had the final opportunity of the match for the Blues when her long-range shot was tipped over by the West Ham goalkeeper in additional time. After Sunday’s WSL games, Chelsea finish the weekend in third place in the league whilst West Ham are ninth after three games. Both sides are at home next weekend in the WSL with the Blues taking on Brighton & Hove Albion whilst the Hammers play Liverpool. Line ups Chelsea: Musovic, Bright (c), Ingle (Cuthbert 56’), Carter, Leupolz, James (Fleming 78’), Lawrence, Kirby (Nusken 56’), Mjelde, Kerr (Beever-Jones 78’), Charles Unused substitutes: Berger, Perisset, Rytting Kaneryd, Buchanan, Cankovic Goals – Kerr 36’, Cuthbert 90’ Booked – Leupolz West Ham United: Arnold (c), Smith, Shimizu, Evans, Ueki, Harries (Atkinson 65’), Denton, Hayashi, Asseyi, Cooke, Cissoko (Tysiak 89’) Unused substitutes: Walsh, Stringer, Filis, Ademiluyi, Flannery Booked - Cissoko Referee – Stacey Pearson Attendance – 3,313

Sarina Wiegman names a 24-strong squad to compete in the Arnold Clark Cup Arnold Clark Cup Squad Back Sarina Wiegman names a 24-strong squad to compete in the Arnold Clark Cup Girls on the Ball Tuesday, 8 February 2022 Sarina Wiegman has announced a 24–player squad to face Canada, Spain and Germany in the first staging of the new Arnold Clark Cup. Manchester City duo Ellie Roebuck and Lucy Bronze return after they missed out on the last three camps through injury. Arsenal's Leah Williamson also returns after her absence in November. However, the Lionesses are without Chelsea's Beth England who has picked up an injury, while captain Steph Houghton continues to works her way back to full fitness. All time top goalscorer Ellen White retains her place within the squad, as do the in-form Georgia Stanway and Beth Mead. Chelsea defender Jess Carter has also kept her spot after cementing herself as a starting fixture for the London Blues. The inaugural Arnold Clark Cup, hosted this year by England, features four nations ranked in the world’s top ten and will be vital preparation for England’s UEFA EURO 2022 campaign, which they will also host. The Lionesses will open the tournament with a match against Olympic gold medallists Canada in Middlesbrough on Thursday 17th February. They will then take on the powerhouse of European football Spain in Norwich on Sunday 20th February. England will finish up the round-robin on Wednesday 23rd February against eight-time European champions Germany in Wolverhampton. Wiegman said: “I am looking forward to playing against three world-class teams. It will be the perfect way to begin a big year, and we will get a lot of important information from the matches ahead of the Euros." “We will play three games in a short period and can rotate lots of players which will help us understand more about our squad and the way we want to play. I know the players will be excited to test themselves against strong opponents." "This tournament can only help us on our way to being ready for the Euros. That is what we are all working towards. It will also be special to go to three top stadiums in different parts of the country and I am sure the fans will give us great support once again." Full Squad: GK: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Hannah Hampton (Aston Villa), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City) DF: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Manchester City), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Rachel Daly (Houston Dash), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Demi Stokes (Manchester City), Leah Williamson (Arsenal), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal) MF: Fran Kirby (Chelsea), Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Jill Scott (Aston Villa), Georgia Stanway (Manchester City), Keira Walsh (Manchester City), Katie Zelem (Manchester United) FW: Lauren Hemp (Manchester City) , Beth Mead (Arsenal), Nikita Parris (Arsenal), Alessia Russo (Manchester United), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Ellen White (Manchester City)

Reading suffer 2-1 defeat to Spurs in first of the Conti Cup group matches Back Match Report Conti Cup: Reading v Tottenham Hotspur Reading suffer 2-1 defeat to Spurs in first of the Conti Cup group matches Reading WFC Twitter 4 October 2022 By Finley Chung Reading couldn’t send a club record crowd home happy as Spurs first half quality was enough to put them to the sword in this first Group E match of the Conti Cup. The record attendance of 2,200 saw goals from Ash Neville and Nikola Karczewska seal a win for Spurs which was marred by injury to Kyah Simon who was stretchered off near the end of the second half. The Royals suffered a late change in the warm-up, with Emma Mukandi dropping out and Diane Caldwell keeping her place, meaning Rachel Rowe was named captain for this match, with Kelly Chambers giving Jacqueline Burns her first start in goal. Rehanne Skinner also shuffled her pack as Spurs looked to bounce back from their North London Derby defeat to Arsenal last weekend, with Asmita Ale, Angharad James and Nikola Karczewska all coming into the starting eleven. Reading got the game underway under the Berkshire sunshine, but it was the visitors who had the first chance just two minutes in, a floated free kick by Molly Bartrip was met by the head of Amy Turner, but it was comfortably saved by Jacqueline Burns in the Reading goal. Bartrip’s defensive partner, Shelina Zadorsky then had to be alert to head away a Reading cross. Spurs continued to dominate, and their early pressure told just seven minutes in, with a very quick and clever free-kick routine saw Ash Neville dart into the box after being set up by Nikola Karczewska, cut inside onto her left and fire a rocket past Burns to give Spurs an early lead. Reading responded superbly to going a goal behind, seeing captain Rachel Rowe’s effort blocked, then a second shot saved by Becky Spencer in the Spurs goal. The visitor’s stopper was called into action again on 17 minutes, as the ball was played through for Lauren Wade by Rowe, and the former’s fierce, left-footed low drive was superbly kept out by Spencer. Another good Royals move on the twenty-minute mark saw a cross swung in from the right, but Natasha Dowie didn’t get a good connection and the effort bobbled wide. Just as the hosts looked to be growing into the game, Spurs doubled their lead on the half hour. Nikola Karczewska was on hand to prod home her first goal for the club since her summer move from FC Fleury, after Cho So-Hyun superbly worked her way into a position and saw her effort saved, with the rebound popping up for Tottenham’s number nine to double their advantage. Reading once again went close to pulling a goal back, with Amalie Eikeland’s effort striking the upright and going behind for a Spurs goal kick. The last action of the half came in the second minute of added time at the end of the first 45, when Tia Primmer became the first name in the referee’s notebook for a foul on Karczewska, but the free kick came to nothing, and the visitors went into the break 2-0 ahead. Half Time – Reading 0-2 Spurs Spurs got the game back underway for the second period, with neither manager deciding to make any changes during the interval. The visitors picked up where they left off, going for Reading on the front foot, with Celin Ildhusøy seeing an effort saved by Jacqueline Burns, with the Norwegian sending another effort wide moments later. An almighty goalmouth scramble then ensues down the other end after a brilliantly floated free kick, however Reading fail to make the most of it and a combination of Spencer and two Spurs defenders get the ball clear. Kelly Chambers then made the first move on her bench, welcoming back Emma Harries to the fold as she replaced Lauren Wade, which was then followed by a double Spurs change, with Drew Spence and Kyah Simon replacing Amy Turner and Angharad James. With around half an hour to go, the official attendance at the Select Car Leasing Stadium was revealed as 2,200, which is a new club record for the Royals. Chambers threw on Charlie Wellings for Faye Bryson in another attempt to try and turn the tide, but the Royals snatched at another opportunity to halve the deficit, when Deanna Cooper sliced the ball over from a free kick. Play was then halted for an extended period as Spurs’ Kyah Simon ended up being stretchered off with an injury to a standing ovation from the crowd, being replaced by Ellie Brazil. As a result of the stoppage, 11 additional minutes were shown at the end d of the second half. Reading kept pushing into added time, with Dowie again seeing her effort saved by Spencer. Spurs themselves had a chance to put some gloss on the victory, with Cho seeing her effort blocked on the line. Reading did get themselves on the board with virtually the last kick of the game when Emma Harries drew a foul off Molly Bartrip in the area, which Natasha Dowie converted, however it wasn’t enough and the visitors saw it through in this hugely entertaining Continental Cup encounter. Full Time – Reading 1-2 Spurs Reading – Dowie (p) 90+11’ Spurs – Neville 7’, Karczewska 30’

Annabel Blanchard netted a 15 minute hat-trick in Crystal Palace's 6-1 victory over the London City Lionesses Back Match Report The Eagles net six as Blanchard soars once again Annabel Blanchard netted a 15 minute hat-trick in Crystal Palace's 6-1 victory over the London City Lionesses Ryan Asman 17 October 2023 By Paul Donegan A second successive home hat-trick from Annabel Blanchard helped Crystal Palace to a 6-1 win over London City Lionesses on Sunday in the Women’s Championship. The Eagles other goals came from Molly Sharpe, Shanade Hopcroft and Anna Filbey, whilst Filbey also put the ball into her own net for the Prides consolation goal. There were no shots at goal in the opening 15 minutes for either side though a dangerous Palace cross caused the visitors defence problems, and a free kick for the home side was punched clear by Grace Moloney. Danielle Carter had the first opportunity for the away side but her effort was blocked after some nice build up play. The hosts took the lead in the 21st minute when Sharpe finished from close-range after Blanchard’s shot had been blocked and the ball rolled forward to her. Four minutes later, the Pride equalised when Emma Mukandi’s inswinging corner went into the net off the unlucky Filbey. Maddi Wilde had the next attempt at goal for the away side in the 38th minute but her shot was easily saved by Natalia Negri. A minute later at the other end, Aimee Everett sent a low shot across the front of goal but no one was there to finish though it wouldn’t have counted as a foul was given. In the 41st minute, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkam won the ball for the Lionesses but saw her shot saved when one on one with the keeper. Seconds later, the same player sent an effort well over. Photo: Ryan Asman Palace retook the lead in the third minute of stoppage time when Hopcroft scored against her former club with a shot from 25-yards that bounced into the bottom corner. Blanchard scored the third goal the home side in the 47th minute when her free kick from wide on the left edge of the penalty area curled into the top corner past Moloney. Four minutes later, a deep free kick was sent into the area which the keeper pushed out only as far as Filbey who smashed the rebound into the net from 6-yards to make it 4-1 to the Eagles. Blanchard was played in by Hopcroft in the 54th minute and finished low from the edge of the area to score the Crystal Palace’s fifth goal. The hosts were awarded a penalty in the 62nd minute after Wilde had been penalised for a handball in the area. Blanchard took the spot kick and sent it low into the corner to complete her hat-trick in 16 minutes and make it 6-1. The chances kept coming for the home side with Sharpe, who was finding a lot of space on the left side of their attack, seeing a low shot saved a few minutes later, and then her long-range effort was kept out by Moloney. The visitors were still creating the old half chance but nothing to really threaten the Palace goal though Boye-Hlorkam had an effort saved in the 73rd minute. Paige Satchell charged forward from the halfway line in the 88th minute for the away side but Kirsten Reilly got back to make a vital tackle and put the ball behind for a corner. Ten minutes of stoppage time were signalled, and the only chance during these fell to the Eagles Shauna Guyatt who shot over in the final minute. The final whistle went shortly after as Laura Kaminski’s side completed their second high scoring home win in a row following their 9-1 win over Durham at the VBS Community Stadium in September. The win moves Crystal Palace up to third in the Championship table, a point behind both Southampton and Sunderland though the Eagles do have a game in hand. London City Lionesses remain in ninth position, a point above the relegation zone. On Sunday, Palace travel to The Valley to take on Charlton Athletic whilst the Pride return home to Princes Park where they face Southampton. Line ups Crystal Palace: Negri, Gibbons (Cataldo 78’), Filbey (Potter 81’), Everett (c), Sharpe (Watson 81’), Hughes, Blanchard, Reilly, Nolan, Doran (Dennis 69’), Hopcroft (Guyatt 69’) Unused substitutes: Lambourne, Johnson, Bailey-Gayle Goals – Sharpe 21’, Hopcroft 45’+3, Blanchard 47’, 54’, (pen) 63’, Filbey 51’ Booked - Everett London City Lionesses: Moloney, Neville, Mukandi, Brougham, Joel (c), Groves (Alexander 90’+4), Fitzgerald, Carter, Wilde (Satchell 63’), Culver, Boyle-Hlorkam (Scofield 75’) Unused substitutes: Dolby, Fraser, Hillyard Goal – Filbey (o.g) 25’/ Booked – Joel, Mukandi Referee – Phoebe Cross Attendance - 816

Elise Hughes nets another as the Eagles soar at London City Back Match Report Two to good for Crystal Palace as they beat the Pride Elise Hughes nets another as the Eagles soar at London City Crystal Palace Women 22 January 2024 By Paul Donegan Hayley Nolan and Elise Hughes scored the goals for Crystal Palace as they beat London City Lionesses 2-0 on Sunday in the Women’s Championship. On a very windy afternoon at Princes Park, Palace started well and Shanade Hopcroft had the first opportunity for them but her long-range shot went over. The Eagles were having more of the ball and doing more of the attacking in the opening 20 minutes but weren’t creating many clear chances. They did take the lead in the 21st minute though when Nolan headed in against her former club from a corner. Felicity Gibbons’ corners were causing problems, and from one an effort hit the crossbar before the referee blew for a foul. London City Lionesses goalkeeper Hermonie Cull got to the ball just before Annabel Blanchard in the 30th minute. Gibbons made a great tackle on Maddi Wilde just as the Pride’s player was about to shot. The closest the home side came to finding the net during the first half was when Palace’s Aimee Everett headed just wide of her own net a minute before half time. The Eagles half time substitute Ayra Dennis had the first chance of the second half in the 47th minute but shot at Cull. Cull made a great save four minutes later when she kept out Kirsten Reilly’s header from close range. Danielle Carter shot well wide for the Pride in the 54th minute after the visitors had given the ball away. Shauna Guyatt saw her shot go wide for Palace in the 71st minute, then Dennis was played in and went past the goalkeeper but the ball was put behind for a corner by Paige Culver. In the 76th minute, Ruesha Littlejohn curled a shot wide from the edge of the area for the home side. The final 10 minutes felt a bit hectic but neither side threatened the goals. That was until the 89th minute when Carter was allowed to run forward for the Pride but shot straight at Palace’s keeper. The Eagles made the game safe in the second minute of stoppage time when they made it 2-0. Blanchard saw her free kick tipped onto the crossbar by Cull, Chloe Arthur’s effort from the rebound was blocked but Hughes finished from close range to score her 13th league goal of the season. Blanchard had the final effort of the match but her low shot was saved. Crystal Palace remain two points off top spot in the Championship but with a game in hand after Sunday’s games. London City Lionesses stay in ninth position, four points above the relegation zone. These sides meet again at Princes Park on Wednesday evening in the Conti Cup. In the league next Sunday, the Pride visit St Andrews to play Birmingham City whilst the Eagles are back at home as they take on Charlton Athletic in a top of the table clash. Line ups London City Lionesses: Cull, Neville, Mukandi, Brougham, Joel (c), Scofield (Alexander 71’), Fitzgerald, Carter, Wilde, Culver, Littlejohn (Groves 90’) Unused substitutes: Uttridge, Cowen, Farrelly Booked - Groves Crystal Palace: Lambourne, Reilly (Percival 68’), Everett (c), Nolan, Gibbons, Potter (Arthur 85’), Hopcroft (Guyatt 61’), Blanchard, Sibley (Dennis 46’), Sharpe, Hughes Unused substitutes: Negri, Johnson, Cataldo, Filbey Goals – Nolan 21’, Hughes 90’+2 Booked – Guyatt, Blanchard Referee – Grace Lowe

Goalkeeper Sophia Poor made her WSL debut as Aston Villa went down to 10 early on Back Match Report Chelsea rise to the top as they beat Aston Villa in comfortable 3-0 victory Goalkeeper Sophia Poor made her WSL debut as Aston Villa went down to 10 early on Chelsea FC Women 19 April 2024 By Paul Donegan Aggie Beever-Jones, Maika Hamano and Kadeisha Buchanan scored Chelsea’s goals as they beat Aston Villa 3-0 on Wednesday evening at Kingsmeadow and moved back to the top of the Women’s Super League. Villa’s goalkeeper Anna Leat was sent off in the 4th minute after handling outside the penalty area meaning the visitors had to play for 86+ minutes with 10 players. 17-year-old Sophia Poor come on for her senior debut in her place in goal. Leat seemed to misjudge where she was on the pitch as she saved Sjoeke Nusken’s shot outside the 18-yard box four minutes into the match with the ball rolling just wide of the post. Referee Melissa Burgin showed her a straight red card meaning what was already a difficult task away at the champions had become a bit harder. The resulting free kick from Catarina Macario was deflected over. The visitors first opportunity came in the 12th minute when Jordan Nobbs was allowed to run forward but shot over. Hamano just couldn’t get her foot on a low cross in front of goal at the other end a minute later. Aston Villa held out until the 18th minute when the Blues took the lead. Niamh Charles crossed in from the left and Beever-Jones volleyed the ball past Poor and into the net. Fran Kirby went close to adding a second for Chelsea but her flicked header from a corner went just the wrong side of the post. Another dangerous cross from Charles was cleared behind by the Villa defence for a corner. Nusken put an effort narrowly wide following a corner in the 31st minute as the hosts got on top. In the 38th minute, the home side made it 2-0 when Macario flicked the ball on and Hamano finished from close-range to score her first goal for the club. The Blues had the final chances before the break with Hamano sending an effort wide in the first of four additional minutes at the end of the first half. Deeper in stoppage time, Nusken flicked the ball forward and Macario got to it before the Villa goalkeeper but put the chance wide. Five minutes into the second half, Beever-Jones kept on running through Villa’s defence before putting the opportunity just wide. Hamano closed down Poor and saw the ball just roll across goal as the hosts went close to scoring a third. After some ball tricks from Macario in the area, Kirby fired wide. Buchanan then had an effort blocked before the visitors cleared. Buchanan scored her first goal for the Blues when she headed in Macario’s corner to make it 3-0 in the 64th minute. Hamano headed over after coming in at the far post to meet a cross in the 72nd minute for the hosts. Poor made a great save to stop a Kirby header from close-range in the 79th minute. Then a minute later, the Villa goalkeeper made another good save to stop a Reiten shot. Poor made these stops despite struggling with an injury/cramp during the second half. In a rare Villa attack, Chelsea were a bit exposed but Kirsty Hanson dragged her shot wide in the 84th minute. A long ball over the top in the final minute almost caught Chelsea out again but Hanson’s shot was saved by Hannah Hampton this time. The Scottish international had another opportunity for the Villans early in the nine minutes of addition time but half-volleyed this one over. Mayra Ramirez cut in from the right but shot straight at the goalkeeper, then Ashley Lawrence sent an effort over as the home side had the final chances of the match. The win sees Chelsea go top of the WSL, level on points with Manchester City but ahead on goal difference with four games left to play for both. Villa remain in seventh position in the league after the defeat. When speaking after the match, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes said it is a “challenge playing against 10 but her side did everything I asked of them”. She was full of praise for Hamano and her “super performance” and Macario’s deliveries from corners. Aston Villa’s manager Carla Ward remarked that she was proud of her side for the way they played for 86 minutes against the champions with a player less. She praised substitute goalkeeper Poor saying she was “excellent”. Line-ups Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Hampton, Lawrence, Carter (Cuthbert 69’), Buchanan, Charles (c) (Reiten 56’), Nusken, Ingle, Beever-Jones (Rytting Kaneryd 82’), Kirby, Hamano, Macario (Ramirez 69’) Unused substitutes: Musovic, Leupolz Goals – Beever-Jones 18’, Hamano 38’, Buchanan 64’ Booked – Ingle, Lawrence Aston Villa (3-4-1-2) : Leat, Patten, Corsie (c), Maritz, Mayling (Lehmann 81’), Nobbs, Taylor, Daly, Dali (Hanson 69’), Magill (Mullett 82’), Salmon (Poor 5’) Unused substitutes: Gregory, Leon Booked – Corsie, Daly Sent off – Leat 4’ Referee – Melissa Burgin

Points were shared at the Dripping Pan as neither Lewes or Birmingham City could break the deadlock Back Match Report WC: Lewes v Birmingham City Points were shared at the Dripping Pan as neither Lewes or Birmingham City could break the deadlock James Boyes 12 September 2023 By Paul Donegan Lewes and Birmingham City both picked up their first point of the Championship season after a 0-0 draw at The Dripping Pan on Sunday. Both sides were reduced to ten players within minutes of each other during the second half with Katie Dungate being shown a red card for Birmingham and Caragh Hamilton for Lewes. Lewes’ goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse made a stunning save near the end of the match to deny Ellie Mason. Lewes had suffered defeats to Southampton and Durham in their opening two matches of the season whilst Birmingham had lost against Blackburn Rovers and Crystal Palace so both went into this game looking to get their season going. After a quiet opening 10 minutes, it was Birmingham who had the first effort when Jade Pennock saw her long-range shot easily saved. Lewes’ first attempt came a few minutes later but Grace Riglar headed over from a corner. The Blues next chance came in the 14th minute when after a poor kick out from Whitehouse, Claudia Walker saw a shot blocked by Shauna Vassell before Pennock but the rebound into the side netting. The first half was interrupted by several injuries that needed treatment and a cooling break in the very warm conditions. The Rooks had the next opportunity when Maria Farrugia went on a powerful run forward from inside her own half, played the ball to Hamilton but she shot just wide and into the side netting. Birmingham had the final effort of the first half when Pennock shot at the keeper. Photo: James Boyes The Blues Jamie Finn just couldn’t get onto a good cross early in the second half. Lewes had the next couple of chances but Anna Grey saw her low shot easily saved in the 56th minute, then eight minutes later, Farrugia’s long-range free kick dipped onto the roof of the net. Birmingham’s Dungate was shown a second yellow card in the 66th minute and was sent off. Three minutes later, Hamilton also received her second yellow, and after a slight delay a red card, meaning it was 10v10 for the last 20 minutes or so. The Rooks had the next opportunity in the 76th minute when Reanna Blades played in Grey but Lucy Thomas rushed out of goal to block the effort. Lucy Quinn saw her effort in the area blocked by a Lewes defender six minutes later. Three minutes into stoppage time at the end, former Lewes player Mason cut in and from just outside the area hit a shot that was heading towards the top corner of the net until Whitehouse made a brilliant save to keep it out. There were no more chances as the match finished goalless. The two sides remain in the bottom positions of the early Championship table. Next Sunday, Lewes travel to Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United, whilst Birmingham return to St Andrews where they will play Charlton Athletic. Line ups Lewes: Whitehouse, Riglar, Cleverly (c), Hamilton, Palmer (Hazard 64’), Pursey (Brasero-Carriera 64’), Farrugia, Grey (Oakley 88’), Vassell, Olding, Mooney Unused substitutes: Moore, Garrad, Blades Booked – Hamilton (x2) Sent off – Hamilton (69’) Birmingham City: Thomas, Louise Quinn, Lawley, Pennock (Lucy Quinn 57’), Finn (Harris 78’), Harrison-Murray (c), Dungate, Walker (Devlin 78’), Allen, Moore (Agg 57’), Herron (Mason 35’) Unused substitutes: Clarke, Worsey, Cowie, Banaras Booked – Pennock, Dungate (x2), Mason Sent off – Dungate (66’) Referee – Lauren Impey A ttendance - 501