Tuesday evening presented an opportunity to take a look at Southern Region Premier League leaders Ascot United. With an eight point lead at the top, they are hot favourites to finally shake off their bridesmaid tag (two consecutive runners-up seasons) and get themselves promoted into the National League system. Tuesday's game, a Combined Counties Women's Cup clash against Women's National League Division One South-East side Actonians, also gave them another perfect chance to measure themselves against the calibre of opposition they can expect if they go up. Another because, in the previous round of this competition Ascot had already seen off Actonians league-mates, Queens Park Rangers. Their 7-1 victory included a hat-trick from Beth Lloyd with further goals from Philippa Holden, Leah Littlechild, Georgia Luckhurst-McCord and Alix Todd. To give a little context to that result in respect to today's game, Actonians have already beaten QPR 4-0 in the league this season.

​The game got off to a great start as far as Ascot were concerned. With only just over 4 minutes played Kate Fox was sent clear of the Actonian's defence in what used to be the inside left position. As goalkeeper Lily Hadrava came to narrow the angle, the Ascot player calmly side-footed past her into the far corner. 1-0
Whilst it was the perfect start for the home side, it didn't last long at all. Four minutes later, goalkeeper Jodie Gray-Piazza took a little too long to clear ger lines allowing Hana Lalani to nip in, win the tackle with the keeper, and slide the ball into the empty net. 1-1
The game then settled into something of a midfield battle between two good sides who like to knock the ball about. Actonians were edging the possession and looked that yard sharper but Ascot were by no means out of their depth. The visitor's goal-scorer, Lalani, looked to be their most potent attacking force. Aside from her goal, she was very happy to try her luck from distance, which she did on a number of occasions, hitting the target on most, even though Gray-Piazza dealt with them well.
Approaching the end of the first-half, Actonians were awarded a free-kick way out on the left, some 30 yards from goal. The set-piece was delivered deep into toward the back post where Jasmine Williamson rose above everyone to head down into the corner of the net. 1-2
Behind, but certainly not downcast, Ascot pressed for an equaliser before the break and, with a minute remaining, came within a few inches of doing just that. Liv Glover burst through, chasing down a ball in a similar position to Lloyd's opener. However, this time the ball had just a tiny bit too much pace on it, allowing Hadrava to come off her line and just reach the ball ahead of Glover, blasting her clearance against the striker and out for a goal kick.

HT Ascot United 1 Actonians 2. A slender lead for the visitors at the break and one that, on e the balance, they probably just deserved. However, credit to Ascot who were battling away giving as good as they were getting. The main difference seemed to be that Actonians had that little bit more nous and were a pace quicker getting to the ball.

​The early chance in the second half went to Actonians when their captain, Mara Bramwell, got her head to a left-wing corner but could not generate enough pace to beat Gray-Piazza. Proceedings then took a turn for the worse for Ascot just before the hour mark. Having already lost Jess Drage to injury in the first half, Leah Robertson went down under a heavy but legal challenge from Bramwell. The Yellas substitute was clearly in a lot of pain and distress. The game was halted to allow physios to attend to the stricken player. At one point it looked as if the game may even be abandoned, but after 11  minutes, Robertson was able to be helped from the pitch still looking very uncomfortable. Best wishes to Leah for a swift recovery.
Unsurprisingly, after such a nasty injury and long break, the second half failed to ignite for either team. The introduction of Molly O'Reilly for Actonians certainly added some liveliness to their attack and a little mirth to proceedings with her constant banter to and fro with the bench. However, goalmouth incidents were at a premium at each end until we entered the last five minutes of normal time, knowing that there were at least 12 minutes to be added on. That was when Bramwell pumped a free-kick from the halfway line into the home box which very nearly deceived Gray-Piazza before the keeper got back to tip the ball over the bar. Then on the stroke of 90 minutes, a ball into the heart of the Ascot box saw O'Reilly and Gray-Piazza slide into a 50-50. The striker reacted the quickest to get to her feet and strike goalward only for a good block from Erin Huntley to seemingly save the day. However, the ball looped up perfectly for Lalani to plant a header over the defenders and stranded keeper into the net. 1-3. There was another small hold-up after the goal due to another injury, this time to goalkeeper Gray-Piazza. Captain Phil Holden took over the gloves and managed to raise a cheer from the home support when she first punched a shot over the bar and then made a good stop when the resultant corner produced a low drive from the edge of the box.
The electronic scoreboard had stopped at 99:35 but we had played well over 100 minutes by the time the referee blew for the end of the game.

FT Ascot United 1 Actonians 3. Defeat for Ascot but certainly no disgrace. They fought hard against a very good Actonians team who just had that little extra. However, the signs are that, should Ascot gain promotion, they are capable of holding their own in the next level. Actonians will face either Ashford United or Margate in the quarter-final. However, it's back to league action for both teams next weekend. Actonians welcome 9th placed Dulwich Hamlet to town looking to avenge a 2-0 away defeat in October. Meanwhile, Ascot travel to Oxford City who boast a 100% home record so far.

Ascot United: Gray-Piazza, Mitchell, Todd, Huntley, Drage, Torry, Holden(c), Fox, Lloyd, Littlechild, Glover. Subs: Rowntree, Doyle, Robertson, Perkins, Kjaer 
Actonians: 1.Hadrava, 5.Bramwell, 4.Clement, 3.Farah Luboya, 19.Dredge, 16.Beaufort, 9.Turnet, 15.Hanif, 8. Williamson, 13. Reimer, 10.Lalani. Subs: 7.Redhead-Ling, 14.O'Reilly, 12.Pejcic

Ground Number: Re-visit
Att: c50
Entrance: £5.00

With nothing happening in the Premier League or in the South, the weekend's focus fell on the bottom of Division One North, where Chesham United Development won the six-pointer with Caversham United, lifting themselves off the foot of the table. At the other end, Wycombe's u23 team beat Ascot United Reserves, which was a great result for leaders Beaconsfield. In the cup, their were wins for Sholing, Fleet Town, Winchester City Flyers and QK Southampton.

​Caversham United 1-3 Chesham United Development
Chesham won for just the second time this season, lifting themselves above The Goats and out of the drop zone. Despite Freya Jenkins scoring Caversham's first goal since mid-November it was not enough to save them. Both Emma McNamee and Kara Smith were on target for Chesham with the other goal being credited as an OG.

Slough Town 3-1 Kidlington Youth
The Rebels climbed above their visitors with a solid 3-1 victory at Arbour Park. An Isabella Jones hat-trick for Slough, did the damage whilst Zoe Taylor was on the mark for Kidlington, scoring for the second consecutive game.

Wycombe Wanderers u23 3-0 Ascot United Reserves
Ascot missed out on the chance to close the gap on Beaconsfield with their game in hand. Molly Carter, Rebecca Hesketh and Elena Mitchell were the goal scorers as the Chairgirls consolidated their third place position and closed the gap on Ascot to four points.

​Fleet Town 8-0 Milton United
Eight goals in 30 minutes saw Fleet progress in the League Cup against Milton United. The game remained goalless up to the 35th minute, when Keira Simpson scored the first of her hat-trick. Five minutes later Lily Martin made it two, which is how it stood the break. Three minutes into the second period Simpson scored her second and the floodgates opened. Martin added her second goal before, on 55 minutes, Simpson completed her hat-trick. Elin Roberts then scored a four minute brace either side of the hour before Olivia Cervino rounded off the scoring in the 65th minute.

Sholing 3-0 Reading
Kat Littleboy scored midway through the first-half to give The Boatwomen a 1-0 lead at the break. It stayed that way until five minutes before the end when Emily Serridge added Sholing's second goal. Two minutes into added time, with the game already in the bag, Emily Flegg fired into the top corner to complete the scoring. The sides meet again next week as Sholing travel North to Slough in a league encounter.

​Pace 0-7 QK Southampton
QK put aside their league worries to comfortably progress in the SDFA Cup at Hampshire League Pace. QK, who have scored just three times in twelve league games, notched seven times in this game. Katryna-May Kavanagh struck twice with Megan Dries, Sarah Dries, Millie Evans, Charlotte O'Flynn and Georgia Sims all adding the to the score.

​Winchester City Flyers H-W Rushmoor Community
Flyers, who play two divisions above Rushmoor, made their pedigree pay as they progressed to the final of NDFA Cup. Annie Northwood helped herself to a double hat-trick and Lara da Silva also grabbed a hat-trick. There were further goals for Charlie Snelling(2), Libby Wilkinson(2), Eliza Eaton(2), Charlotte Warhurst, Shayne Prasad, Sam Burt with her first for the club and Lavinia Nkomo, completing a tough afternoon for Rushmoor who, to their credit, battled away until the last minute.

​Ascot United 1 Actonians 3
A good test for Ascot, facing up to a side from a division above them. Ascot took an early lead through Kate Fox which was quickly cancelled out by Hana Lalani, latching onto a loose touch from Ascot's keeper. Jasmine Williamson nodded the visitors in front before the break and Lalani rounded off the scoring late on. Ascot battled well but the game was marred by three injuries to Ascot players. Jess Drage and goalkeeper Jodie Gray-Piazza both hobbled off but the worst injury was to Leah Robertson. Best wishes to all of the injured players. You can read the match report from Neal Jeffs on the Ascot web site. There will also be a BotP match blog from the game coming out shortly.

​Badshot Lea v Winchester City Flyers
The Baggies are now bottom of the table and still looking for that first win of the season whilst Flyers are on a run of seven consecutive victories, in all competitions. The reverse fixture ended 4-1 to Winchester after Badshot Lea took a early lead through Shellie Irvine. Two from Laura da Silva had Flyers in front by the break. Libby Wilkinson and Kayleigh Tonks rounded it off.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Oxford City v Ascot United
With Wycombe and Portchester not in league action, Ascot could go 11 points clear with a win. However, this one could be a real test for the unbeaten leaders. Oxford are five from five at March Lane this season and averaging almost four goals per game at home. They'll also want to avenge the 4-1 defeat at The Racecourse in the reverse fixture, a game that saw Ascot score all four in the opening 45 minutes.
Marsh Lane, Marston, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX3 0NQ

Reading v Sholing
Having only just met at Sholing in the league cup, these two should be very familiar with each other. Reading finally earned three pints from their last home league game so, despite losing 3-0 at Sholing last weekend, they'll still be full of confidence and looking to pull further clear of danger. The reverse fixture, on the opening day, also saw Sholing triumph by 3-0.
Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

​Abingdon United Development v Slough Town
Only three points separate Abingdon, in fourth, from sixth placed Slough. After a couple of heavy league defeats, the Rebels got back to winning ways last weekend, beating Kidlington 3-1. Abingdon, meanwhile, lost 6-1 at home to Wycombe, their second loss on the bounce. Slough won the reverse fixture by 3-2, coming from behind after trailing 2-1 at the break.
The Northcourt, Northcourt Road, Abingdon, OX14 1PL

Caversham United v Ascot United Reserves
The Goats fell to the foot of the table after last weekend's defeat to Chesham and have yet to take a point at home this season. Ascot missed out on a chance to close the gap at the top when they went down 3-0 at Wycombe last Sunday. The reverse fixture ended 7-0 to Ascot, back in November, a game that BotP was on hand to witness (Weather Beaten).
Mapeldurham recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Chesham United Development v Tilehurst Panthers
United opened up a two point gap at the bottom of the table last weekend, and will be looking to increase this as they search for their first home league points of the season. However, Tilehurst are away day specialists, having taken 12 of their 14 points o their travels. This will be their first meeting of the season after the reverse fixture was postponed a couple of weeks back.
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chartridge Road, Chesham HP5 2RG

Milton United v Kidlington Youth
It's now no league win since early November for Kidlington. Milton have won two of their last six but still remain four points adrift of Sunday's visitors, although they do have a game in hand. The reverse fixture, back in September, ended in an emphatic 8-2 victory for The Greens with Grace Craven, Kiera Isaac and Erin Ball notching two goals apiece.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

AFC Varsity v Havant & Waterlooville
The Hawks will start the game in third spot, five points adrift of leaders Stoneham but with a game in hand. Varsity, in their first season in the league, are already well clear of the danger zone and just four points off Wimborne Town, who currently sit fourth. The reverse fixture went the way of Havant with Emily Wernham scoring twice in a 6-0 victory.
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, Romsey Road, West Wellow, Romsey SO51 6EA

Fleet Town P-P Abbey Rangers

QK Southampton v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Will QK's big cup win last weekend help them finally kickstart their league campaign? The Bees beat Pace 7-0 on Sunday and will want to follow that up by gaining points and scoring on their home turf for the first time in the league. In October, Sports won the reverse fixture 6-0 thanks largely to four goals from Emma Acott. However, Sports are also without a win in the last nine games in all competitions.
The Hive, Redbridge Lane, Southampton SO16 0XN

Woking v AFC Stoneham
Stoneham, the current league leaders, take their 100% away record up to Surrey on Sunday, knowing that, with Fleet not playing, they can possibly extend their lead to six points. The Cards are currently in fifth, safe from any relegation worries and too far back to affect the title race, but they'll still want to finish as high as possible. The reverse fixture ended 2-0 to Stoneham with Abbie Awdas and Imogen Mullins grabbing the goals.
Woking College, Rydens Way, Woking GU22 9DL

​AFC Portchester v Wimborne Town
Both of these teams will already be more than happy with their respective seasons. Portchy, in their first Premier League campaign, have more than held their own and currently sit third and well in the mix at the top of the table. Wimborne, who made the step up from the Dorset League, are fourth, have won more than they have lost and have a given a very good account of themselves so far. So, this competition is something of a free hit to both teams.
Wicor Recreation Ground, Cranleigh Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 9DP

Selsey v Beaconsfield Town
This is an intriguing tie that pitches the unbeaten leaders of Division One North against a team yet to win in the Premier League. The Rams will certainly be looking at this to measure their progress this season. Selsey really need a morale-boosting victory of any kind. They have not won since beating Abbey Rangers in the last round of this competition.
Seal Bay Stadium, High Street, Selsey, PO20 0QG

Saturday was a big day at the top of the Witney & District Premier Division. At kick off only four points separated the top six. Aston led the way on 17 points with RAF Brize Norton a point behind with a game in hand. Hanborough and Bampton United followed on 15 points. In fifth were Hailey on 14 with danger club Stonesfield in sixth, four points behind the leaders but with three games in hand. To make things more interesting, the top four were up against each other this Saturday afternoon, Hanborough were taking on RAF Brize Norton and leaders Aston welcomed very near neighbours Bampton United, which is where BotP was headed. With less than 2.5 miles between the grounds (much shorter as the crow flies), this was the very epitome of a local derby. Although this would the first league meeting between the sides, they had already played at Bampton in the Fred Ford Cup, a game that saw United's Luke Colville score twice a the home side progressed with a 4-2 score line. Both teams were promoted from Division One last season> Bampton finished third, Aston were in fifth spot. This was United's second consecutive promotion, having been playing in Division Two the previous term, after dropping down a league the year before. Last season's meetings saw a total of 12 goals scored, 8 of which went the way of Bampton. Following a 4-4 draw at home, Bampton went on to win 4-0 at Aston late in the season. As things stood today, any of the top five could theoretically  find themselves top of the pile by the end of the day.
Thanks to referee Tim Siret for getting the team sheets for me prior to the game.

​The opening minutes saw the two teams weighing each other up. The only real action of any note inside the opening 10 was a cynical hack on Aston captain Kieran Watts by Connor O'Shea. Somewhat incredibly the big Bampton striker was let off with just a warning and no card was brandished. Having seen the incident that led to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly being shown a straight red (by the way, I'm not an Gooner), you'd have to say that O'Shea was very lucky. Bampton were lucky not to have Michael Oliver officiating.
The first real effort of note came form the home team on 11 minutes when Charlie Collins saw his on-target effort comfortably fielded by Mike Hedges.
However, with 19 on the clock, Hedges was caught out by a miss-hit cross from the right that looked to be dipping under his bar at the far post. The United stopper managed to back-peddle and palm it away but only as far as Cairo Cuss who slammed the loose ball into the roof of the net. 1-0
Aston were certainly on the front foot at this point, and Hedges had to be at his best a few minutes later, saving at point-blank range from Dylan Briggs, who had been left on his own some 10 yards out. Just past the half hour mark, with the hosts looking for a second, Briggs squirmed free on the right of the box before firing a low, driven cross along the six-yard line. The ball beat Hedges but a last-ditch defensive tackle prevented Andy Horne from applying the finishing touch.
With just over ten minutes remaining in the first half, Bampton finally found their attacking flair. A quick break found Luke Colville inside the right-hand side of the box. His shot toward the near post was struck very well but home keeper Tomasz Mazur stood strong, parrying the ball away but picking up an injury in the process, one that would come back to haunt him in the second half.
After being on the defensive for the majority of the half, Bampton were making a much better fist of the closing moments. Jay Hughes planted a powerful header just over Mazur's bar from a left-wing corner and Marc Norridge struck a free-kick just over. In between those attempts, however, a defensive howler had allowed Briggs a free run at the Bampton goal, only for the striker to delay long enough for Hedges to close down the opportunity. When Briggs attempted to square the ball for a fellow striker it was cleared and the chance was gone.

HT Aston 1 Bampton United 0. Aston controlled the majority of the half. Bampton noticeably started to come back into it towards the end but, overall, had been second best to the home team for the first half an hour. Having said that, at just a goal down, there was still a lot to play for in this game.

​During the break I took a wander around the pitch but, in hindsight, I should have stayed where I was, in earshot of the Bampton team talk because, whatever their coach said to them at half-time, it certainly did the trick. The visitors came out looking like a different side in the second-half and, within 8 minutes of the restart they were back on level terms. The were awarded a free-kick over on the left side around 35 yards out. Marc Norridge sent the ball into the mix, curling toward the far post. A number of players challenged for the ball which somehow found its way into the corner of the net. 1-1. This sparked off a very funny interaction between players on both sides, who clearly knew each other very well. Norridge was claiming the goal, saying that it didn't touch anyone. Meanwhile, the home defence were claiming they got and touch and it was, in fact, an own goal. I've seen strikers try to claim goals before but never a defender wanting the OG to prevent an opposing striker getting his name on the board. In Full-Time Norridge is credited but on the league web-site it is down as an own goal. In my opinion, the ball was goal-bound and, even if there was a slight touch from a defender, it was Norridge's goal. Either way, it was now all-squareand the visitors had their tails up. To add to Aston's woes, the first-half injury to their keeper had been made worse during the goal and he had to leave the pitch with defender James Fleming taking over between the sticks.
Four minutes later the stand-in keeper was picking the ball out of the net, despite a valiant effort to get to Luke Colville's header from a right-wing corner. 1-2 and the turnaround was complete. Just o the stroke of the hour Colville almost added another when his volley went just over the bar. Aston were now the team struggling to get into the game as United exerted complete control.

​The Ground
The Aston Village Playing Field sits being the Aton & Cote Village Hall just outside the village of Aston, a few miles to the South of Witney. The village hall has parking both in front and to the rear of the building. Theer are also toilet avaialable in the village hall,a lthough this may not always be open. The main pitch is on the far ide of the field from the hall, with small-sided pitches marked out closer to the building. The playing surface loked to be pretty well flat, with no discernible slope. It also looked in reasonable condition for the tiem of year. There's no spectator cover, as you woudl expect, and no dugouts. It is, however, a very pleasant countrysode location which, I imagine, is great in the warmer months, but not so much on a chilly January afetrnoon.

Ground Number: 435
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

Finally, three weeks into 2025 there was almost a full programme of games across the Southern Region and associated cups. The only postponement was Wimborne v Abbey, every other game went ahead as planned. In the Premier League Reading took the limelight, winning foe the first time this season and lifting themselves clear of the bottom. Beaconsfield continue to run rampant in the North, clocking up double figures at home to local rivals Slough. Across the cup fixtures, Portchester won away at National League Bournemouth Sports, but there were no further 'cupsets'.

​AFC Portchester 4-1 Havant & Waterlooville
Premier League Portchester showed their class in a first half that saw all five goals scored. Mia Hadaway, Eilidh Currie, Charlotte Keenan and Brooke Marshall were on the mark for the home side. Tia Hooper did get a goal back for The Hawks, who were much improved in a goalless second half.

​
​Reading 2-1 Selsey
A relegation six-pointer at Arbour Park. Reading were out of the traps quickly but found themselves behind after 17 minutes when Isabelle Wheatley's cross went in off the far post. Lucy Bolitho scored a belter after The Royals had squandered chances to equalise, and Selsey had strong claims for a penalty turned down in  the first half. Reading captain Bolitho then hit what proved to be the winner just past the hour mark as the home side claimed their first league points of the season. Read the match blog here (Points On The Board)

Woodley United 1-3 Wycombe Wanderers
Axelle Courlander and Kayla Potter scored late in the first half to give the Chairgirls a two-goal advantage at the break. Potter then increased the lead before May Hamblin pulled a goal back for Woodley in the 81st minute. You can watch the Wycombe goals courtesy of their X feed. You can also see all the match action photos, captured by the brilliant Andy Wicks. 

​Abingdon United Development 1-6 Wycombe Wanderers u23
A Molly Carter hat-trick combined with two from top scorer Shannon Read and a goal from Elena Mitchell, gave Wanderers a big win at The Northcourt. The win takes them five points clear of their hosts, whose consolation goal came from Charlotte Bigmore.

Ascot United Reserves 5-2 Chesham United Development
Ascot kept up the pressure on leaders Beaconsfield with a solid three points at home to bottom side Chesham. Leah Robertson, Lauren Knight and Stephanie Ferreira, had the Yellawomen three goals to the good a half-time. However, Emma Nolan quickly reduced the deficit in the second half. Robertson's second reclaimed the three-goal lead before Rosie Williams added another for Chesham. Lauren Knight's second, after 75 minutes, finally put paid to a Chesham recovery.

Beaconsfield Town 10-0 Slough Town
The ruthless Rams rattled in double-figures against a Slough side who held out for 24 minutes before the floodgates opened. Katie Riddington after 24 minutes, Ruby Harris nine minutes later and two within a minute from Dominque Carrington and Lucy Casey, saw the home side open up a four goal gap. Henna Hussain then chimed in with either side of the hour. Gemma Whitchurch and Carrington again made it eight with 23 minutes remaining. Carrington completed her hat-trick on 82 minutes before Riddington added her second right at the end. Check out the action photos on the Trophy Photography Instagram page. You can also watch the match highlights courtesy of the Beaconsfield You Tube channel.

Caversham United 0-4 Penn & Tylers Green
Life doesn't get any easier for The Goats who failed to score for the fifth game on the bounce, although Penn were only a goal to the good at the break. If the Penn FB page is anything to go by, this was a rocket from Megan Brockwell. Amber Cattell, Tara Woodward and Annalise Scott-Green added to Caversham's woes in the second-half. The win keeps Penn well and truly in the title race should they win their games in hand.

Milton United 1-2 Tilehurst Panthers
Panthers scored twice in the opening 18 minutes, through Deanna Cane and Leah Why. Milton pushed hard for an equaliser after Jessica Exell got a goal back, but Panthers held on for another away win. That now means that 12 of their 14 points have come on the road.

​Oxfordshire
Headington 1-2 Kidlington Youth
A sterling effort from Thames Valley Division 3 side Headington, bridging the four division gap between the sides, they only went down by the odd goal in three. Emily Marriott scored for the home side. Zoe Taylor and Sara Pinna were on the mark for Kidlington.

Oxford City 7-0 Barton United
City showed the Premier League credentials with a stylish performance against local rivals Barton United. Emma Donohoe grabbed her self a hat-trick whilst Isobel Bradley, Kaitlyn Crouch, Ellie White and Lucy White all chimed in with a goal each. You can read the full match report on the Oxford City web site.

Hampshire  Senior
Bournemouth Sports 2-2 (p3-4) AFC Portchester
Portchy came through a penalty shootout to take the scalp of National League Bournemouth Sports in this Senior Cup tie. April hill had given the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead which was cancelled out by Freya Role on 53 minutes. A minute later Lucy Nightingale restored Portchester's lead before Hollie Shaw popped up to snatch a very late equaliser for Sports. Portchy keeper Roxy Roberts made the all-important stop to send them through 4-3 from the spot. Re-live that moment with these photos from the Portchester X feed.
Portchester's reward is a home tie with another National League side, Moneyfields.

Bournemouth Sports Reserves 2-7 Fleet Town
Despite goals from Isobel Wheatley and Lucia White for Sports, Fleet cruised through this all Division One South tie. Fleet will now travel to Premier League Sholing in the Quarter-Final.

Havant & Waterlooville 3-3 (p2-4) Sholing
Premier League Sholing eventually overcame a battling Havant performance with a 4-2 penalty shootout win. The Hawks twice came from behind in the game, before eventually succumbing. Siena Millen and Catherine Browning put the Boatwomen two ahead before Tia Hooper got a goal back. Shortly after half-time Sophie Lee levelled the scores only for Catherine Browning to restore Sholing's lead with a stunning volley. Phoebe Hamilton then pulled Havant back onto level terms with 10 minutes to go.
Sholing look forward to the visit of Fleet Town in the next round.

QK Southampton 0-3 Bursledon
There was no let up to QK's season as The Dons coasted comfortably into the next round of the cup at their expense. Isobel Pouncy made it 1-0 after 25 minutes. Eight minutes later it was two thanks to Laura Barton. Ten minutes after the break, Zoe Bache rounded off the scoring to make it 3-0 to Bursledon.
Bursledon travel to national League high-flyers AFC Bournemouth in the Quarter-Final

Southampton u21 12-0 AFC Varsity
The Saints u21 side recorded a resounding victory to progress in the Senior Cup. The majority of the damage was done in a blistering first-half in which the hosts scored eight times. They now make the short journey to Winchester City Flyers in the Quarter-Final.

Winchester City Flyers 2-1 AFC Stoneham
It was the late, late show for Flyers as they saw off lower-ranked opposition. The Purps had taken a first-half lead just past the half-hour mark when Chloe Marshall scored. However, Libby Wilkinson had the teams going into the break all-square when she equalised two minutes into added time. It stayed that way until a minute into second-half added time, when Annie Northwood pounced to send the home side through. Flyers will take on Southampton u21 in the next round. Watch both Winchester goals on their YouTube channel and read the match report on the Flyers web site.

Capital Intermediate
Woking 0-3 Farnham Town
The day's early kick-off saw Farnham Town continue their excellent season with a 3-0 win at Woking. A Megan Averill penalty began the scoring but the two goals in two minutes from Nicole Leys and Maya Adams, just around the hour mark, were the ones that killed off the Woking challenge.

Capital Senior
Badshot Lea 0-3 Sutton United
The Baggies couldn't find any respite from their season as they crashed out of the Capital Senior Cup at home to London & South-East Premier side Sutton United. K'Shaela Burch-Waldron scored in the 21st and 30th minute to put the visitors two up at the break. Gabby Buddle-Smith added the finishing touch on 74 minutes

​Badshot Lea v Oxford City
The Baggies continue their search for the first win of the season, starting this game as the bottom club after Reading's win last weekend. This won't be an easy task against an Oxford side who put six past them in the reverse fixture back in October. City will also be on a high after scoring 7 in the county cup at the weekend. Teh Baggies are now on a run of three without scoring in all competitions.
Operatix Community Ground, Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Woodley United v Ascot United
In their last 7 games in all competitions, Woodley have alternated between win and lose. After losing at the weekend, the pattern suggests a win this weekend. However, they have played Ascot three times already this season and the Yellawomen have proved to something of a bogey team. All three games have ended in an Ascot win, with an aggregate score of 23-3.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

​Caversham United v Chesham United Development
The archetypal relegation six-pointer. Both teams have played 12 of their 20 league games. Chesham currently sit bottom on 4 points, with Caversham a point above them. However, Chesham have an 8 goal advantage in the GD column. The reverse fixture was awarded to The Goats as an away walkover, the reason that they are above Sunday's visitors. Whilst this game won't decide who finishes bottom, if there is a loser, they will find it difficult to pull themselves clear.
Mapledurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Slough Town v Kidlington Youth
Town are two places and two points worse off than sixth placed Kidlington, who have also played a game fewer than Sunday's hosts. Slough come into this game on the back of three heavy away defeats, losing 6-0 at Penn, 11-1 at Wycombe and 10-0 at Beaconsfield last weekend. Can they take advantage of being back home? The reverse fixture ended 5-2 to Kidlington with top scorer Grace Craven scoring twice.
Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

Wycombe Wanderers u23 v Ascot United Reserves
This could well be game of the weekend. Both teams have lost just once in the last six, both to leaders Beaconsfield. Both are free-scoring and both have tight defences. The reverse fixture ended 5-3 to Ascot thanks largely toa Sarah Jones hat-trick. Whilst Wycombe's title challenge is slim at best, Ascot are still in with a big shout, but they need to keep winning.
18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

AFC Varsity v AFC Stoneham
Stoneham are the current league leaders but only have a three point margin over Fleet, who have three games in hand. So, The Purps need to keep winning and hope that Fleet start to drop points. On the plus side, Stoneham can boast a 100% away record and are yet to even concede a goal on their travels, a total of three games. Varsity have won their last two league games and are already probably safe from relegation. They will, however, want to avoid a repeat of the reverse fixture when they went down 7-0 with league top scorer, Mis House, hitting six of the goals.
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, Romsey Road, West Wellow, Romsey SO51 6EA

Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Abbey Rangers
Sports Reserves have now lost nine on the bounce in all competitions and, although they are still mid-table, they'll want to stop the rot sooner rather than later, especially as they only have four league games remaining. Abbey are currently second from bottom but, conversely to Bournemouth, have 11 fixtures yet to fulfil. The reverse fixture was awarded to Bournemouth as an away walkover.
Chapel Gate, Nr Hurn Airport, East Parley, Hampshire BH23 6BL.
​
Bursledon v Havant & Waterlooville
These two fought out an incredible 4-4 draw at Westleigh Park back in September with Havant's Sophie Lee snatching a point with a 91st minute equaliser. The Hawks were unfortunate to go out of the county cup on penalties to Premier League Sholing on Sunday whilst Bursledon were winning 3-0 at QK Southampton in the same competition. Havant will still feel they have a say in the title chase but they will need to keep winning and hoping the both Fleet and Stoneham slip up.
Toynbee School, Bodycoats Road, Chandler's Ford, Eastleigh SO53 2PL

​AFC Portchester v Wimborne Town
Both of these teams will already be more than happy with their respective seasons. Portchy, in their first Premier League campaign, have more than held their own and currently sit third and well in the mix at the top of the table. Wimborne, who made the step up from the Dorset League, are fourth, have won more than they have lost and have a given a very good account of themselves so far. So, this competition is something of a free hit to both teams.
Wicor Recreation Ground, Cranleigh Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 9DP

Fleet Town v Milton United
On league form alone, this has home win written all over it. Fleet still boast a 100% league record whereas Milton have had a difficult season by their recent standards. Having said that, Milton's last away win came at Fleet's fellow South Division league-mates Bournemouth Sports Reserves in the previous round of this competition. United came back from the coast with an excellent 6-3 victory.
Crookham Road, Fleet GU51 5FA

Penn & Tylers Green v Wycombe Wanderers
A local derby between two in-form sides. Wycombe are currently second in the Premier League and have won six of their last seven in all competitions. Penn have won five of their last six. Interestingly, the two defeats mixed in with these runs have both come against the respective Ascot teams in their leagues. 
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Selsey v Beaconsfield Town
This is an intriguing tie that pitches the unbeaten leaders of Division One North against a team yet to win in the Premier League. The Rams will certainly be looking at this to measure their progress this season. Selsey really need a morale-boosting victory of any kind. They have not won since beating Abbey Rangers in the last round of this competition.
Seal Bay Stadium, High Street, Selsey, PO20 0QG

Sholing v Reading
Will Reading's first league win of the season last Sunday spark a revival in their fortunes? They've already had some good cup wins this season, notably the penalty shootout victory over National League Abingdon United. However, Sholing won the corresponding league fixture 3-0 on the opening day, scoring all their goals in the opening half. The Boatwomen are safe in mid-table and may well see the League Cup as a potential source of silverware.
Oasis Academy Mayfield, Ashley Cresent, Southampton SO19 9NA

Pace v QK Southampton
This is a chance for one of two teams having difficult seasons to grab some glory. Both teams are bottom of their respective leagues. QK are yet to take a point whereas Pace do have three points. However, there is a two step difference in favour of QK over the Hampshire League Division 2 side.
Testwood School, SO40 3ZW?

​Winchester City Flyers v Rushmoor Community
A tough draw for Hampshire League side Rushmoor, who will need to overcome a two division gap if they want to progress. Although, after three successive league defeats, they'll probably be more focussed on avoiding the drop for the second season running. Flyers are in a safe place league-wise, so may be seeing this competition as a chance for some glory.
Charters Community Stadium

​I must admit, my original plan for Sunday was to catch up with The Wandering Tractor but, stupidly, I had neglected to take note of the 3pm kick off time at Brentford Women, the game we had arranged to meet up at. With a commitment to getting home by 5pm, there was no way I was going to be able to watch that game and make it back to Oxfordshire in time. Sorry to say that meeting up with Dave will have to wait a little longer. I had to do some quick calculations and SatNav planning, before I realised I could make the 2pm kick-off at Reading Women v Selsey at Arbour Park and still easily make it home before 5pm. So, a quick check of the GPS to ensure I was going to make kick-off (it was estimating an arrival time of 13:57) and I changed course for Slough Town's ground.
This was an interesting game in itself. Both teams had come down from the National League last season, Reading effectively starting again and Selsey following relegation. However, life in the Southern Region League had not been easy for wither side. In fact, neither had yet managed a win. Selsey had drawn two games, both against Badshot Lea and Reading were yet to pick up a point, despite some really good cup performances. The gap between the bottom three, Reading, Selsey and Badshot Lea, at the bottom, was such that the relegation battle was already looking to be a three-way fight. Sholing, fourth from bottom, had a twelve point buffer. So, this one was definitely the epitome of the relegation 6-pointer.
Despite being the bottom club, Reading started the day with four games in hand on Badshot Lea and two in hand on Selsey, so their fate was still in their own hands.

​On another bitterly cold afternoon, it was the home side who started the game in a very positive manner. Mia Bradley gave warning of her prowess down the right when she burst through to shoot narrowly wide with just 6 minutes on the clock. Selsey's Lucienne Selvester followed suit 3 minutes later, hitting the target but not worrying Cherry Preisner too much. However, the Reading stopper was soon to be concerned. Despite the home side having the better of the opening encounters, they were caught out when a long ball down the right allowed Isabelle Wheatley to get free. Her cross on the run looped over Preisner before going in off the far post. Definitely an element of luck in the goal, but they all count. 0-1
Undeterred, Reading tried to hit back immediately and it was, once again, the threat from Bradley up the right that almost paid dividends as her shot flashed across the face of Millie Delamont's goal. Reading were piling forward but still had to be aware of the ball over the top. Wheatley, on the right, and Ellie Jefkins, on the left, both looked to have enough pace to cause issues.
The visitor's keeper was certainly the busier though. Just on the halfway point Bradley once again provided a test for Delamont. this time the keeper was forced into a good parry, only for the ball to rebound out to Sajunae Turner, who couldn't keeper her strike down. Something of a let-off for Selsey. As we hit the half-hour mark both Lucy Bolitho and Sumayah Zayadi came close for Reading, the latter hitting the side-netting when she should really have tested Delamont again. Reading were creating plenty of chances. Surely the equaliser was on the cards?
It was, and it arrived in the 36th minute in spectacular fashion. Another Reading attack looked to have fizzled out when the ball was cleared into the centre. However, captain Lucy Bolitho stepped onto the bouncing ball before volleying it into Delamont's top left-hand corner from 25 yards. A superb strike. 1-1
Two minutes later a ball in from the Reading right found Bolitho again, this time around the penalty spot. However, the Royals captain proved to be far less accurate from 12 yards, lashing the ball into the car park.
Before Bradley saw yet another shot fly across the face of goal, the visitors had a big call for a penalty. I'll be honest, I was on the opposite side of the pitch, close the far end and didn't have a clear view of the incident at all. However, the appeals from the Selsey players and bench were very vociferous. All to no avail as the referee waved play on.

HT Reading 1 Selsey 1. Reading were well on top overall and certainly don't look like a team with zero points so far. Should Selsey have had a penalty? They thought so, but from my view on the opposite side there was no clear view.

​It was interesting to see the difference in the two sides as they came out for the second half. Reading were out early, went through a few warm-ups with their coach and then knocked the ball around in the centre to keep warm. Selsey came back out in ones and twos, looking less enthusiastic. However, when the game restarted, it was the visitors who got in the early first strike, Charlie Davey making sure that Preisner was alert after half-time.
Shortly after that normal service resumed on the Reading right with Mia Bradley once again causing problems for the visiting defenders. This time she worked her way down the wing before cutting the ball back across the 6-yard box. Zayadi was lurking, but the ball ran slightly behind her making her unable to get enough power on the shot to beat Delamont.
Just past the hour mark Reading got their noses in front and once again it was their captain Lucy Bolitho showing them the way. He low drive from the edge of the box wasn't all that powerful but it was just inside Delmont's right-hand post, leaving the keeper grasping at air. 2-1.
Credit to Selsey who, once again, tried to retaliate immediately. Jefkins, who had looked their most lively player throughout, drove in from the left before letting fly and narrowly missing the far corner.
Reading though could smell their first win of the season and they didn't look to be in a mood to let it slip. Lilly Brooke-Cousins came close when she tried her luck from way out, seeing her effort land on the roof of the net with Delamont beaten. Then, with 7 minutes left, Zuzanna Gajzler had the ball in the Selsey net only to see the assistant's flag had already been raised. Bradley was still tormenting the visitor defence and when Zayadi played her in with a defence-splitting ball, the winger struck goalward onto to see Delamont get a fingertip to the ball, deflecting it for a corner. Then, in the first minute of added time, Delamont made two very good stops, both from Gajzler, before Assia Fatri's effort was hooked off the line.
The third goal wouldn't come, but it didn't matter. The whistle bleew and the Royals had their first league win of the season.

FT Reading 2 Selsey 1. Reading take all three points for the first time this season. A deserved victory over the 90 minutes. Selsey played their part, but continue to look for a win themselves. The three points takes Reading out of the bottom two, leaving Badshot Lea rooted to the foot of the table below Selsey on goal difference.
Next up for Reading is a trip South to take on Sholing in the League Cup
Selsey are also in League Cup action as they welcome Division One North leaders Beaconsfield Town to the Seal Bay Resort Arena.

Reading: 1.Preisner, 3.Brooke-Cousins, 4.Turner, 5.Levy, 7.Gajzler, 9.Fatri, 11.Morl, 12.Bradley, 19.Airey, 20.Bolitho(c), 21.Dench. Subs: 8.Giles, 14.Zayadi
Selsey: 1.Delamont, 2.Evans, 3.Guymer, 5.G.Morris, 6.Halford, 7.Sanderson(c), 10.Jefkins, 11.Walford, 12.Selvester, 14.Wheatley, 17.K.Morris. 20.Campbell, 4.Davey, 9.Childs, 16.Flower

Ground Number: Re-visit
Att: 
Entrance: £7.00
Programme: N/A

It was a case of keeping it local again this weekend and, as luck would have it, there was a game that caught my eye happening just up the road. Deanshanger Athletic, who I have seen play away from home a number of times, were at home to Silverstone in the North Bucks Interdivisional Trophy. A local derby and a chance to visit Athletic at home for the first time. The teams are both currently members of the Intermediate Division in the North Bucks League structure, the second level of the league. Prior to kick-off the situation on the league was that Athletic sat second, 10 points adrift of leaders Olney. Silverstone were fourth, a further 7 points back but with 4 games in hand on Deanshanger. They had already met once before this season, a league encounter back in late August. That day Silverstone had handed Deanshanger a 5-1 home defeat, despite the hosts taking the lead after half an hour. 
The most recent time I had seen Deanshanger play they were 7-2 winners at Finmere on a blustery day back in late November (Fins Fall To Storm Force 7). However, I also saw an early season game at Woburn & Wavendon (Call The Cops There's Been A Mugging), a game refereed by Krzysztof Ziejewski, who was also today's official. It was great to bump into referee Krzysztof gain before the game, especially as he made a special trip back to his car to get the team sheets for me. Thank you sir, very much appreciated.

​Silverstone set about this game with a real vigour. Kicking away from the clubhouse end, they had their hosts pinned back in their own half almost from the first whistle. Their fist real chance came in the 7th minute when Harvey Trim, who would prove to be a constant threat to Athletic, broke down the right flank. His cross found Will O'Toole with his back to goal. The midfielder laid the ball back into the path of Theo Higgins, only for the number 10 to blast the effort well  over the bar. The pace of Trim was a warning to the home side and one that they didn't heed. Two minutes later another through ball found its way behind the home defence and once again the pace of Trim sent him clear. this time he was much more central and had a direct path to goal. As Sam Watts came out to meet him, the winger slipped the ball under him to open the scoring. 0-1.
Deanshanger were finding it difficult to get to grips with the game and after just 12 minutes could easily have been two goals down. Another defence splitting pass opened them up, this time for O'Toole to break clear. However, Watts was alert enough to make a very good block and, when the loose ball fell back to O'Toole, he could only lash it wildly wide of the mark.
The Silverstone attacks kept coming though. Midway through the half Elliot Gibbons had Watts at full stretch and not getting there, but the cross-shot whistled narrowly wide of the far post, Lucas Broadhurst, on as a substitute for Higgins, then shot over with pretty much his first touch and Trim shot well over again. All of the efforts were coming from the visitors, but it remained at 1-0. Josh Mickley, in the Silverstone goal, was practically a spectator for the first half.

HT Deanshanger Athletic 0 Silverstone 1. Very one-sided but still only one goal in it. Will Silverstone regret not making more of their chances?

​The second half started off in a very scrappy manner as the cold weather started biting. Deanshanger looked to be a lot more determined than in the first period and Silverstone were certainly not dominating the ball like they had done for the first 45 minutes. However, as we headed for the hour mark, Mickley still had not been stretched at all.
As the clocked ticked over to 60 minutes there was an extraordinary passage of paly that very nearly led to a comical own-goal. Deanshanger were awarded a free-kick around 10 yards away from their own left-hand corner flag, which Tom Dunning went to take. Looking to square the ball to his goalkeeper so that they could play out from the back, he completely miscued the pass which clattered off the foot of the post, inches from going in. It did make me wonder how much the condition of the pitch had played a part in the close shave, especially as they had already been a number of shanked and mis-cued passes throughout the game. However, the home side survived and there was still just a single goal in it.
Chances were at a premium ay both ends of the pitch for a while as Deanshanger tried to get themselves back onto level terms. However, when good chances came, it was still Silverstone who looked the more likely to add to their total. With 14 minutes left Trim once again latched onto a long ball that beat the home defence. However, his finishing was not so good this time, screwing his shot wide of the mark. A chance to seal the game going by the wayside. Another chance went astray a few minutes later when Broadhurst blazed over from 15 yards. Silverstone could easily have been out of sight by this point and you did wonder if there was going to be  a classical last minute sucker punch. However, it didn't come and, in fact, it was the visitor's who came closest in the final few minutes when Penny's miscued cross drifted over Watts but came back off the bar.

FT Deanshanger Athletic 0 Silverstone 1. This one could, and probably should, have been more than 1-0 to Silverstone. Athletic improved a little in the second half, but Silverstone were easily the better of the two on the day. Credit to the visitors for the way they took the game to Athletic. Deanshanger had one of those days where they couldn't seem to get started. Silverstone will face Wing Village in the Quarter-Final after they defeated Newport Pagnell Athletic 3-1 back in December.
Next weekend both sides return to league action. Deanshanger travel to Leighton Woodside, who currently sit 11th. This will be their first meeting this season. Silverstone are back at home where second from bottom Real MK are the visitors. This is also their first meeting of the season.

Deanshanger Athletic: 1.Watts, 2.Grose, 3.Stallard, 4.Dunning, 5.Harris(c), 15.Kisaane, 7.E.Dyer, 8.Moore, 9.McLaren, 10.Barry, 11.Forbie. Subs: 12.Baker, 14.S.Dyer, 6.Fisher, 16.Gibbs
Silverstone: 1.Mickley, 2.Paine, 3.Parnell, 4.Bodily, 5.Fleming, 7.Wakeling, 8.C.Penny, 9.Gibbons, 10.Higgins, 11.Trim. Subs: 12.Chittenden, 14.Broadhurst, 15.T.Penny, 16.Finney

​The Ground
Deanshanger Sports Club is where it should be, in the centre of Deanshanger village, just to the North-West of Milton Keynes. The football club thrives across all age for both sexes. When you arrive at the club, accessed off Little London i the heart of the village, this becomes apparent. The main pitch is at the far end of the complex and, to get to it, you have to walk past an assortment of small-sided pitches. The club house is much larger than I expected too, featuring a patio area (not advisable in this weather), from which you could watch quite a number of the junior games. The main pitch, which also has plenty of parking adjacent on Folly Road, is surrounded by a well-maintained fence featuring blue posts and a white tubular barrier. The club's name and logo is emblazoned on a banner behind the goal facing the club house. There is no spectator cover as expected at this level of the pyramid, although the Folly Road side of the ground has a small grass bank which some spectators use to gain a better view. There are also currently no dugouts, although there are two patches of blue Astroturf either side of the hallway line that suggest there either used to be or there are planned dugouts. The playing surface doesn't have a discernible slope. However, it was certainly in need of a trim, this weekend at least.


Ground Number: 434
Att: c30 (manual count)
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

As we begin to head into the home straight, one team from each of the three divisions can still boast a zero in the 'Lost' column of the table. In the Premier League Ascot United lead the way having won ten and drawn one of their eleven matches. With eight left to play and nine points ahead, they are in a very strong position. In the North it's Beaconsfield Town sitting top of the table. They have drawn two of their twelve games, winning the other ten. A five point gap sees them in a strong position but there are still teams in the chasing pack who could yet have a say. The South boasts the only team with a 100% record intact. Conversely, they are the only one of the three not to be sitting on top of their league. Fleet Town are eight from eight, but still three points shy of AFC Stoneham, albeit with there games in hand.

​AFC Portchester 4-0 Badshot Lea
Brooke Marshall and Lucy Nightingale both scored twice as Portchy made the game safe inside the opening half. There was no more scoring, but the points were safely in the bag. The result sees Portchester climb into second place, above Oxford City on goal difference with a game in hand. Badshot Lea remain second from bottom, two points above Reading.

Ascot United 2-1 Wycombe Wanderers
A massive three points for Ascot who opened up nine point gap at the top of the Premier League table. Beth Lloyd put The Yellawomen in front midway through the first half. It stayed that way until the 81st minute when Lloyd was on target again, making the points look secure. However, in an extended added time, Kayla Potter pulled a goal back for the Chairgirls but the hosts held out to take the win. Read the match report from Neal Jeffs on the Ascot website.

Reading 1-4 Winchester City Flyers
Flyers scored four for the third game running as they added more misery to Reading's season. Libby Wilkinson had the visitors two to the good inside the opening half hour or so. However, Zuzana Gajzler pulled one back for the spirited Royals, just before the hour. Winchester then quelled the revival through Wilkinson's hat-trick goal on 66 minutes. Annie Northwood then added a fourth with 14 minutes remaining. Read the match report from The Tilehurst End (@thetilehurstend). You can also check out the match photos from Neil Graham.

Selsey P-P Oxford City

Sholing 2-3 Woodley United
Two goals from Siena Millen, inside the opening 12 minutes, saw Sholing get off to a great start. They held the lead through until half-time, but six minutes into the second half, Sarah Lawrence pulled a goal back for Woodley. Just past the hour mark Lauren Devlin squared it up. Then, with nine minutes of normal time remaining, top scorer Lawrence was on the mark again to complete a fantastic comeback win for United.
Check out Lauren Devlin's penalty on the Woodley X feed.

​Caversham United P-P Slough Town

Milton United P-P Kidlington Youth

Penn & Tylers Green P-P Abingdon United Development

Tilehurst Panthers P-P Chesham United Development

Wycombe Wanderers u23 0-4 Beaconsfield Town
The Rams kept up their unbeaten record in what was a crucial contest in the race for the title. Third placed Wycombe had been on a fantastic winning run and, although they had played more games, were beginning to put some pressure on the top two. However, two goals from Katie Riddington, one from Lucy Casey and a debut goal from recent signing Henna Hussain, gave Beaconsfield a comprehensive victory. Watch the highlights courtesy of Beaconsfield Town's YouTube channel.

Abbey Rangers P-P Bursledon

AFC Stoneham 4-0 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Only a ninth minute Mia Flood goal separated these two at half-time. However, Aimee Gritt made it two six minutes into the second half before Chloe Marshall added the third with just over twenty minutes to go. Top scorer Mia House then got in on the act just before the final whistle to seal a solid three points for Stoneham, sending them top of the league.

Fleet Town P-P AFC Varsity

Havant & Waterlooville 5-0 Wimborne Town
The Hawks gained some revenge for their 2-1 defeat in Wimborne earlier in the season. After a low-key start in which Wimborne looked quite threatening, Sophie Lee eased home nerves. A thunderbolt from Issy Humphrey made it two four minutes later. Laurie Potvin then gave the home side plenty of breathing space just before the break. Soon afterwards, a first of the season from Molly Stoddart made it four. Top scorer Sophie Lee then added a fifth and her fifteenth of the season. Read the BotP match blog here (The Prog Rock Derby)

Woking 3-1 QK Southampton
Bottom side QK, without a point this season, stunned the Cards early on by taking an 8th minute lead through Hollie Keefe. However, midway through the half, Bryony Gibbs levelled the scores and send the sides in level at the break. Woking finally broke the QK resistance thanks to two goals in two second half minutes from Gabriella Hobday just past the hour mark.

AFC Portchester v Havant & Waterlooville
Last season's Portsmouth Divisional FA Cup beaten finalists AFC Portchester take on local rival Havant & Waterlooville. With Portchy now in the Premier League, there has been no league meeting this season and the final game of last season was awarded to Portchester. They did, however, meet twice last season. The league game at Portchester ended 5-0 to the home side but The Hawks gained some revenge by knocking Portchy out of the League Cup at Westleigh Park with a 2-1 score line.
On-Site Group Stadium, Cranleigh Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 9DP

​Reading v Selsey
It may only be halfway through the season, but this game has relegation 6-pointer written all over it. Neither team has managed a win yet this season. Selsey have drawn twice and it's those two points that are keeping them above Reading. This will be their first meeting of the campaign. Both teams need to go flat out for a win. A draw would not help either team.
Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

Woodley United v Wycombe Wanderers
Another first meeting of the season. Fourth placed Woodley take on fifth placed Wycombe, with just a single point separating the sides, who have both played 10 games. The league's joint top scorers go head to head. Woodley's Sarah Lawrence and Kayla Potter from Wycombe, both have 16 goals although Potter has played one fewer game than her Woodley counterpart.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

​Abingdon United Development v Wycombe Wanderers u23
The reverse fixture in October finished in a resounding 4-0 victory for Abingdon. However, Wanderers had won their last four league games until Sunday's defeat to Beaconsfield. Wanderers are the league's top scorers with 41 goals scored, 15 of which have come from top scorer Shannon Read.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Ascot United Reserves v Chesham United Development
Ascot remain top of the league, but are now only a point clear of Beaconsfield, who have a game in hand. Chesham are anchored to the bottom, a point behind Caversham, who have played a game more than Chesham. The reverse fixture, in early October, ended 5-1 to Ascot.
Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Beaconsfield Town v Slough Town
The Rams are still unbeaten in the league having now played 10 games, winning eight. They hold a five point lead on Ascot United Reserves but have played a game more and Ascot have yet to visit Holloways Park. Slough sit mid-table with 12 points from their 10 games, not a bad return for their first season in the league. They have won twice at home and on the road. This is their first meeting with The Rams this season.
Holloways Park, Windsor Road, Beaconsfield HP9 2SE

Caversham United v Penn & Tylers Green
The Goats are still looking for their first home point of the season as they welcome Penn to Mapeldurham. Their visitors, who have only played 7 league games, could still have a say in the title but now need to ensure they win all of their games in hand to keep the pressure on Beaconsfield. It's a first league meeting between the sides this season. However, Penn did win an early season FA Cup by 5-0.
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Milton United v Tilehurst Panthers
This is also a first league meeting of the season between the teams. Just a point separates Panthers, in 8th, from Milton in 9th. The fact that this is an away game for Tilehurst is probably in their favour. Yet to win at Scours Lane, they have taken 9 of their 12 points on the road.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

​Wimborne Town v Abbey Rangers
The Magpies have the opportunity to bounce back from Sunday's 5-0 defeat at Havant as they face up to second rom bottom Abbey Rangers, who admittedly have played far fewer games than anyone else. Wimborne won 8-2 at The Moor in November with seven different players on the score sheet.
Wyatt Homes Stadium, New Cuthbury, 16 Ainsley Road, Wimborne BH21 2FU

​Headington v Kidlington Youth
A short trip over the A34 for Kidlington as they visit Thames Valley Division 3 West leaders Headington. The hosts are unbeaten at home this season, but a three step difference is going to be a tough task for them. The teams were league-mates in the 2020-21 season when Kidlington did the double over Headington, Courtney Sumner scoring twice in each game. 
Sandy Lane Recreation Ground, OX4 6AX

Oxford City v Barton United
With only just over 1.5 miles between the grounds, you can't get much more of a local derby than this one. There are, however, two divisions between the teams. Barton are currently fourth in Division 1 of the Thames Valley League, although they do have a couple of game sin hand which could possibly take them to second. They are unbeaten away from home in the league too, although that is offset by the fact that City have a 100% home league record.
Marsh Lane, Marston, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX3 0NQ 

​Bournemouth Sports v AFC Portchester
Last season's Southern Region Premier League champions take on this season's Premier League newbies. Sports are only just above the drop zone in the National League South-West, so their focus may well not be on the county cup. Portchester currently sit second in the Premier League but are nine point adrift of Ascot United albeit with a game in hand. This will be a good indicator of exactly how far they have come this season.
Venue: Bournemouth Sports Ladies First

Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Fleet Town
Fleet still have a 100% league record one win of which came at Sports in October. Goals from Keira Simpson, Amy Granger, Olivia Cervino and Mahiya Sandeep gave the visitors a four goal victory, however, they were made to wait until the second half before breaking the deadlock. With just four league games remaining and safely ensconced in mid-table, Sports are in a position to give the cup a real go.
Venue: Bournemouth Sports Ladies Reserves

Havant & Waterlooville v Sholing
A short hop along the M27 for Sholing as they face up to Division One South side Havant & Waterlooville. The Hawks are unbeaten in the league at Westleigh Park and beat Wimborne 5-0 last time out (The Prog Rock Derby), so will be going into this one full of confidence despite the one division difference.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

QK Southampton v Bursledon
A welcome break from the league for QK, who are yet to gain a point. They face a Bursledon side who they only lost narrowly to in the league at Toynbee School last November. On that occasion a 70th minute Kirby Anderson goal was the difference between the teams.
The Hive, Redbridge Lane, Southampton SO16 0XN

Southampton u21 v AFC Varsity
A tough test for Varsity as they come up against The Saints PGA team who were beaten finalists last season, for the second season on the bounce, losing to AFC Bournemouth on both occasions. They did, however, win the SDFA Cup last season beating AFC Stoneham 10-0 in the final, a game that BotP had the pleasure to witness (X Rated Saints). Varsity have a big enough gap in the league table for them to relax and enjoy this cup tie.
Venue: Southampton FC Women RTC Academy
​
Winchester City Flyers v AFC Stoneham
The Purps, sitting top of Division One South, have a 100% away record in the league. They make the short trip North to face up to a Flyers team who are firmly established in mid-table of the Premier League. Currently on a four game winning streak in all competitions, Winchester have scored four goals in each of their last three games. Stoneham also have no worries in the goalscoring department having already 39 goals in their 11 league games.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO50 7SU

​Woking v Farnham Town
Farnham currently sit atop the Surrey Premier Division of the South East Counties League with a 100% league record. That's despite losing top scorer Emma Mutch to a long-term injury (get well soon Emma). Woking have picked up some form recently after a shaky start to the season. They've won their lats three in the league, scoring three on each occasion.
Woking College, Rydens Way, Woking GU22 9DL

Badshot Lea v Sutton United
​The Baggies have not had a good season in the Premier League and are yet to win a game. Sutton are mid-table in the London & South East premier League, the same level as Badshot Lea. They've not played since Mid-November thanks to a series of postponements. The Baggies, who have not had their top scorer in the side for the last two games, have also failed to score in those games.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

This Sunday was a chance to finally get to my first Southern region game of 2025 and an opportunity to pay a first visit to Havant & Waterlooville. It's not quite the furthest ground for me, but it's still exactly 100 miles in each direction from Bicester to Westleigh Park. Still, at least the weather had improved a little. I hadn't even had to de-ice the car in the morning. This was not only my first visit to the home of The hawks, it was also going to be the first time I had seen them play, home or away. I had, however, seen their visitors play once before, a 1-1 draw at Bursledon back in September (These Two Are Keepers).
Prior to kick-off Havant & Waterlooville sat in third spot, five points behind the top two with a game in hand on second placed Stoneham but having played one more than Fleet. Wimborne were a place below their hosts, two pints further back and having played a game more. However, the reverse fixture in September saw The Magpies take all three points thanks to a brace from Sheree Bell-Jack. A goal from captain E-J May couldn't prevent the Hawks falling to what was then, their first defeat of the season.
Did you know? - There's an interesting connection between Waterlooville and Wimborne Minster. There's a clue in the blog title. All will be revealed at the end of the blog.
Many thanks to Havant goalkeeper coach and stray ball retriever, Ashley Hards-Figgins, for getting the team sheets for me. Very much appreciated.

​The visitors started the game very brightly and, although they didn't manage to trouble Emily Paines in the home goal, looked to carry a threat up front through the strength of Sheree Bell-Jack, who won everything in the air, and the pace of Sadie West. Abi Buck was also getting a fair amount of space on the left, pushing forward to assist the strikers. However, it was Magpies goalkeeper Tegan Barnes who was the first stopper to be called into action, tipping Emily Wernham's effort over the bar in the 12th minute. That said, Wimborne had definitely had the better of the opening 15 minutes.
The game completely changed shape in the 19th minute when a long ball found Havant's top scorer Sophie Lee on the edge of the box. A side-step to give herself space followed by a low drive that went in off the inside of the post, and the home side were ahead. 1-0. Five minutes later Havant made it two. Issy Humphrey picked up the ball on the just outside the left side of the penalty area before curling an absolute stunner past Barnes into the far top corner. 2-0.
After being on top at the start, Wimborne now looked a little shell-shocked. The opposite was true for Havant, who were now spraying the ball about with some confidence and looking in control of the game. West, and Bell-Jack were still putting themselves about up front, but the chase was now slightly less vigorous and the tracking back a little more laboured. 
Just past the half hour Humphrey tested Barnes again but this time the visitors keeper was equal to the effort, Captain E-J May then tried her luck from outside the box, seeing her shot sail just wide. All of the chances were going the way of the home team but they then almost shot themselves in the foot. Playing out from the back, they lost the ball deep in their own half, presenting Bell-Jack with the opportunity to get a shot off. The effort went well wide, but it was a reminder than Havant couldn't lose concentration.
With seven minutes to go before the break, the home side came very close to extending their lead. Once again it was Issy Humphrey causing the problems for Wimborner. this time her strike beat Barnes but rattled the underside of the bar, setting off a mad scramble in the 6-yard box which, eventually, Wimborne managed to clear. 
At this point Wimborne may well have been happy to go in two behind, giving the coaches a chance to re-group the team during the interval. However, The Hawks had other ideas and, following a left-wing corner that caused some chaos in the visitor's penalty area, Laurie Potvin was on hand to smash home a loose ball after the initial effort was blocked. 3-0

HT Havant & Waterlooville 3 Wimborne Town 0. A really good start from Wimborne had Havant looking a little shaky for the opening 10 minutes or so. However, once the Hawks got their noses in front, they took control of proceedings and looked good for their three goal lead.

​There was no let up from Havant in the second half. E-J May was the first to try her luck, not too far wide from another long-range strike. However, eight minutes into the second period, the home side did add to their tally. Emily Wernham showed a clean pair heals to her marker, bursting down the right flank before delivering the perfect cross for substitute Molly Stoddart to finish her first goal of the season. 4-0.
The points were safe at this point. Wimborne had hardly stretched Paines, and were not going to score four times in the final half an hour. Sadie West did get a rare sight of goal just past the hour mark, but her effort was way off target. May had another long-range effort well saved by Barnes and the visiting goalkeeper had to be at her best on 75 minutes when May's delightful, threaded pass put Wenham in on goal. Barnes was very quick to narrow the angle, pushing the striker's shot away for a corner.
Ellie Chaffe then had a shot on target for Wimborne, which was easily fielded by Paines before, with six minutes remaining, the home side made it five. Sophie Lee, who scored the opening goal, rounded it all off when she drove into the box on the right. her low, driven effort deflected off a defender completely wrong-footing Barnes. 5-0

FT Havant & Waterlooville 5 Wimborne Town 0. A comprehensive victory for the home side who, once they found their rhythm, dominated the game. Despite scoring five times, it was The Hawks defence that stood out for me. The whole back line looked solid, not allowing a sniff for the Wimborne strikers. The result lifts Havat to within 2 points of Fleet, who are now second after their game was postponed. Wimborne remain in fourth spot but are now just two points ahead of a resurgent Woking team, who won again.
Havant had a Thursday evening PDFA fixture at Portchester before they welcome Premier League Sholing to Westleigh Park for a County Cup tie on Sunday. Wimborne, meanwhile, have a home league fixture with Abbey Rangers to look forward to at the weekend.

Havant & Waterlooville: 1.Paines, 3.Gardner, 4.Potvin, 5.Marsh, 6.Smith, 8.Mcnamara, 9.Wernham, 10.May(c), 11.Lee, 15.Dixon, 19.Humphrey. Subs: 2.Key, 20.Stoddart
Wimborne Town: 1.T.Barnes, 2.Nieman(c), 15.Campbell, 18.L.Barnes, 4.Rowley, 8.Reeks, 6.Wollington, 3.Buck, 7.Chaffe, 10.Bell-Jack, 9.West. Subs: 5.Watkins, 11.Cheney, 14.Suddaby, 17.Peters

​The Ground
Westleigh Park is situated just to the North-East of Havant town centre and is the former home of Havant Town, one half of the merger that formed Havant & Waterlooville in 1998, the other half being Waterlooville FC. There's an ample car park in front of the ground just off Martin Road. The former clubhouse, just to the side of the stadium, is now The Westleigh pub. Access to the ground is normally through multiple turnstiles, however for today's game it was through a gate at the side of the ground. The men's team have played as high as the National League, although are currently at Step 3, and the facilities at the ground reflect their former status. There are covered spectator areas on all four sides, including a 700+ capacity main stand directly behind the dugouts. The playing surface was converted to 3G in 2020 and is, therefore, in good condition. It may slope a little toward the car park end. it was to tell if this is the case or if it is an optical illusion.

Ground Number: 433
Att: 
Entrance: £3.00
Programme: N/A

Did you know? - The connection is King Crimson the innovative prog rock band. Leader and founder, Robert Fripp, was born in Wimborne Minster. Michael Giles, their original drummer, was born in Waterlooville.

​Only two of the five scheduled matches beat the weather over the weekend. Ascot extended their lead at the top of the Premier League. In the South, Bursledon got back to winning ways after two straight defeats.
This weekend, weather permitting, there is a full complement of games across all three divisions. Ascot v Wycombe looks like the pick of the bunch in the top division. Wycombe's u23 team, currently on a great run, travel to Beaconsfield in the pick of the North. Meanwhile, in the South, Havant & Waterlooville v Wimborne has the hallmarks of a cracker. Let's hope the weather improves a little before Sunday.

​Ascot United 6-0 Reading
The new year started as the old one had ended for Reading, in a 6-0 defeat. Kate Fox hit a hat-trick for the undefeated league leaders, two in the first half and the final goal four minutes from time. In between, second-half goals from Georgia Luckhurst-McCord, Alice Balaam on her debut, and Sophie Doyle, wrapped up the points for Ascot, who now have a six point gap at the summit. Read all about in on the Ascot United web site, courtesy of Neal Jeffs.

Bursledon 5-2 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Six of the seven goals came in a hectic first 45 minutes. Charlet Norman-Tasker put the hosts ahead after 5 minutes, only for Chloe Ashton to level it up. Isobel Pouncey then scored twice in six minutes to give The Dons a 3-1 lead. Lucia White then pulled a goal back for Sports before, 5 minutes before the break, Samantha-May Gamble gave the home side a two goal cushion again. Shortly after the break Zoe Bache made the game safe, moving Bursledon to within a point of Sports in the table.

QK Southampton P-P Havant & Waterlooville

​AFC Portchester v Badshot Lea
Currently in fourth, Portchester are one of four sides trying to haul in Ascot United at the top. The Baggies are still chasing that illusive first win of the season.
The reverse fixture ended in a 4-0 victory for Portchester with two goals coming from Millie Bradbury, one from Lena Stroem and one from top scorer Gemma Hillier.
Venue: AFC Portchester Womens

Ascot United v Wycombe Wanderers
The Yellawomen opened up a six point gap at the top last weekend with the win over Reading. This one, however, promises to be more of a treat to their 100% home record. The Chairgirls, who sit third, have yet to taste defeat on the road in the league. The sides drew 2-2 back in September thanks to a last Jessica Watkins equaliser for Wycombe, the only time Ascot have failed to win a league game all season.
The Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Reading v Winchester City Flyers
It's now seven games without a point for Reading, following their defeat to Ascot on Sunday. Flyers have yet to win on their travels, so Reading will be looking at this one as a potential way to climb off the foot of the table. However, The Royals will need to solve their goalscoring drought to achieve this, having failed to hiot the target in their last three league outings.
Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

Selsey v Oxford City
Another club looking for their first win are Selsey. Along with Badshot Lea and Reading, the Blues are cut adrift at the bottom, having picked up two points so far. Finding the net has been a problem for Selsey. However City, who score plenty also have a habit of conceding. The reverse fixture ended 5-1 to Oxford thanks to a brace from both Kaitlyn Crouch and Emma Donohoe. BotP was at Marsh Lane to witness the game - Cock-A-Hoop Hoops
Seal Bay Resort Stadium, PO20 0QG

Sholing v Woodley United
Only four points separates Sholing, in sixth, from Woodley, one place above them. However, United have played two fewer than the Boatwomen. The reverse fixture at Bulmershe Pavilion ended in a 3-0 home win with goals from Sarah Lawrence (2) and Chloe Melton
Oasis Academy Mayfield, Ashley Crescent, Southampton SO19 9NA

​Caversham United v Slough Town
The reverse fixture was conceded by Caversham, so this will be the first meeting of these two sides this season. Slough have lost their last three in the league, two defeats, of which, have come at the hands of Wycombe's u23 side. The Goats, after a creditable draw at Kidlington, lost their last game 5-0 to Milton United. They are yet to take a point at home this season.
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Milton United v Kidlington Youth
The second A34 derby of the season. Kidlington won the reverse fixture 8-2 back in September. However, fortunes have changed since that day. Milton have won two of their last three in the league and had a good away win at Bournemouth Sports Reserves in the League Cup. The Greens have lost two and drawn one of the least three league games and gone out of the League Cup at Woking.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

Penn & Tylers Green v Abingdon United Development
United are a place and four points above Penn, but have played four more games than their Sunday hosts. Penn, who suffered their first league defeat of the season at Ascot last time out, won 1-0 at Abingdon in September. They could still have a big say in the title run-in, but need to win their games in hand. Abingdon also lost to Ascot in their last outing, which was way back on December 1st.
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Tilehurst Panthers v Chesham United Development
A first meeting between these two this season. Panthers had an excellent 6-3 victory at Kidlington in the last game, back in mid-December, four of their goals coming from top scorer Leah Why. Chesham, who had a brief revival in October, lost their last two in the league but have not kicked a ball in anger since mid-November, following a conceded game in the league Cup and a postponement in their last scheduled game.
The Rivermoor, Scours Lane, Reading, RG30 6AY

Wycombe Wanderers u23 v Beaconsfield Town
The Rams are still unbeaten in the league but face a tough test to that credential as they face up to a team very much in form. Wanderers, after a shock defeat to Chesham in October, have won their last four, scoring 22 and only conceding once. Beaconsfield have not played since late November, having suffered two postponements in December. The reverse fixture, on the opening day, saw The Rams score twice early on in a 2-0 victory.
18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

​Abbey Rangers v Bursledon
Rangers have still only played seven league games and have not registered a win since defeating QK 4-0 in late September. They went down 3-2 to Fleet in their last game, missing out to a late Lily Martin winner. The Dons, who also lost 3-2 to Fleet in November, beat Bournemouth 5-2 at the weekend, getting 2025 off to a good start. Thsi wil be the first meeting between the teams this season.
Addlestone Moor, Surrey KT15 2QH

AFC Stoneham v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
The Purps are level on points at the top of the table but below Fleet on goal difference, and have played to extra games. They've won their last three in the league, including a 1-0 win at Sports in the reverse fixture last November. Sports are on a dismal run of six consecutive league defeats after only losing once in their first seven.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Fleet Town v AFC Varsity
With the final remaining 100% record cross the leagues, Fleet hold pole position in the table and have two games in hand on their nearest rivals. This will only be their third home league game, where they have conceded just one so far. Varsity have won their last two league outings, the first time they've won consecutive games since their promotion. Isabella Moffett grabbed a hat-trick for Fleet in their 6-1 win at Varsity last November.
Crookham Road, Fleet GU51 5FA

Havant & Waterlooville v Wimborne Town
The Hawks remain five points adrift of the top two, but do have a game in hand on Stoneham, who are second. Wimborne are faring better than any other of the newly promoted clubs, already having amassed 17 points. The Magpies defeated The Hawks 2-1 in the reverse fixture with both goals coming from Sheree Bell-Jack.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

Woking v QK Southampton
QK's struggle for an illusive league point continues as they make the trip North to Woking College. The Cards won 3-0 at The Hive back in November and have won their last two league outings against Bournemouth and Bursledon. A win for Woking could lift them up to fifth, depending on other results.
Woking College, Rydens Way, Woking GU22 9DL

As the weather was taking its toll across the country, I had pencilled in two possibilities for Saturday, one on grass and one on plastic, knowing that the grass game had very little chance of going ahead. Interestingly, both games involved teams named Oakley. My choices were AFC Oakley v Wootton Blue Cross in the Bedfordshire League or a Thomas Field Shield Quarter-Final between Aylesbury & District side Stoke Mandeville and Oxfordshire Senior League outfit Oakley United. Following an 11am pitch inspection, my original choice of two became one. I was heading down the A41 to Aylesbury. It crossed my mind as I drove toward Stoke Mandeville School, home of Stoke Mandeville FC, that I was only 3 weeks short of an anniversary of this very trip. I headed down the same route in the early hours of a snowy January morning in 2010. taking my with to Stoke Mandeville Hospital where, 8 or 9 hours later, she gave birth to our daughter. What's more, that wasn't my only connection to this particular match. Just prior to my daughter's birth, we had looked at, and almost purchased, a house in Oakley.
Anyway, enough of that, on to today. The match, as stated, was a Thomas Field Quarter-Final featuring two sides currently doing exceptionally well their respective leagues. Hosts, Stoke Mandeville, are also the current holders of the Thomas Field Shield, having beaten Wendover 9-2 in last season's final.
Both teams came into this game top of their leagues although Stoke Mandeville, in the Aylesbury & District Premier League (Step 8), do play one level above Oakley's Oxfordshire Senior League Division Two  (Step 9). Both teams could claim an unbeaten league record. Oakley have drawn one and won ten of their games, the offending draw coming on their own ground last time out, against Bletchington. Stoke Mandeville, meanwhile, not only had a 100% league record, but could also claim a 100% record in all competitions, a grand total of 16 consecutive wins this season.
In order to get to this stage of the trophy, Stoke Mandeville had seen off fellow Premier League side, Aylesbury Vale Toqeers Titans, 5-1 in the previous round. Oakley had won 7-1 at Aylesbury & District Division One bottom side, Aylesbury Royals.
So, despite the one level difference between the teams, it was going to be an interesting tie between two sides full of confidence.
Once again, I am indebted to match referee Kevin Saw for sharing the team sheets with me before kick-off. Massively appreciated.

The game almost started explosively. Within 30 seconds of kick-off Stags captain Kieran Schmidt found jack Maddran with a superb 50-yard diagonal ball. The striker brought the ball down well but then lashed it well wide with his next touch. However, a warning had been issued to the visitors. In the opening minutes, the home side continued to look the more confident and came very close to opening their account on 12 minutes when a free-kick flew across the face of the Oakley goal which no-one could get a significant touch to.
After weathering this opening storm, Oakley began to find their feet, pushing Stoke Mandeville back into their own half. On 20 minutes Lawrence Foster chased down a long ball even though he was second favourite. His pressure forced home keeper Patrick Callaghan to clear his lines but the ball hit Foster, lopped back over the keeper but, luckily for the home team, fell wide of goal. A few minutes later the visitors went even closer. Tom Beckett broke clear in midfield, drove into the left side of the penalty are before hitting a cross-shot that beat Callaghan but also narrowly evaded the lunge of Foster at the far post. Inches from giving them the lead.
Oakley were now having much more say in the game, but they still had to be wary of the diagonal through ball. On the half-hour they were almost caught out again when Leon Harding got on the end of another exceptional pass. Sadly for Stoke Mandeville his finish did not match his first touch and the wild effort did not trouble Mickolaj Thompson in the Oakley goal.

HT Stoke Mandeville 0 Oakley United 0. A tight contest but the visitors, after a nervy opening, had edged the 45 minutes. One thing is for certain, you could not tell they play a league below their hosts. Stoke Mandeville had a game on their hands if they wanted to preserve their 100% record.

It was certainly not getting any warmer as the second half kicked off. Possibly a reason that the teams were ready to get going very quickly. What was noticeable early in the second period was that the home side had clearly been given, if not a rocket, then a severe pep talk in the interval. They immediately set about pushing Oakley back. An early chance from a corner fell to Marcus Hussey, after Thompson's punch only reached the edge of the ox. However, the centre-half could only volley over the bar. Foster then had a half-chance at the other end when the visitor's high press won the ball back. The striker's shot on the half-turn not troubling Callaghan.
It was all action at this point. A minute later Hussey must have thought he had scored when his close-range header from another corner appeared goal-bound. However, Thompson leapt across his goal and palmed the ball away. Great save. That was on 56 minutes, but two minutes later, there was nothing Thompson could do as the home team took the lead. Schmidt produced a slide-rule pass inside the full-back for Dan O'Sullivan to run onto and slip the ball under Thompson. 1-0. The Stags now had their tails up and Thompson had to be at his best again a few minutes later, saving well and preventing O'Sullivan from notching a quick-fire double.
The came the game's most decisive couple of minutes. It started with A Tom Beckett effort which Callaghan saved comfortably. Then, a minute later, the visitors had the ball in the net. However, the flag went up immediately. From where I stood it appeared that the initial Oakley effort may well have gone in, but a striker followed up an made sure, prodding the ball over the line from an offside position. The referee signalled for offside and the goal was chalked off. To make matters worse for Oakley, they went from thinking they were level, to being two goals down in the blink of an eye. Stoke Mandeville went straight up the opposite end and, when the ball fell to Sean Coles on the edge of the area, he dropped the shoulder to make himself a yard, before firing low past Thompson's right hand. 2-0. 
That goal seemed to finally knock some of the stuffing out of Oakley and, although the more senior players and the bench shouted encouragement, it felt as if the game was up at this point. If it wasn't, then it was on 83 minutes when The Stags produced, possibly, the best move of the game to sew the result up. Jack Bowers exchanged passes on the right, beat his player and then pulled the ball back perfectly into the path of Tye Duventru, who guided the ball low past Thompson into the corner of the net. 3-0

FT Stoke Mandeville 3 Oakley United 0. The 100% season rolls on for The Stags, but they were really made to work for this one. Oakley matched them and, even after going behind, were still in it. The double blow of the disallowed goal followed so closely by going 2-0 behind, finally finished them off, but they can hold their heads high. As for Stoke Mandeville, can they do it? Can they go through an entire season winning every game? They will face their biggest test next Saturday when they travel to Oxfordshire Senior League Premier high-flyers, Kennington Athletic, in the county cup. The Kenny Men sit third in the Premier League. Oakley United, meanwhile, have an absolutely massive league game on Saturday as they travel to second placed Witney Town. Oakley beat Witney 4-0 on the opening day, one of only two games Town have lost so far. A win would put Oakley 3 points clear with two games in hand.

Stoke Mandeville: 1.Callaghan, 15.Gwilliam, 5.Hussey, 4.Skiller, 2.Bowers, 7.Coles, 17.T.O'Sullivan, 16.Schmidt(c), 9.Maddran, 8.Ilyas, 14.Harding. Subs: 10.D.O'Sullivan, 13.Woolhead, 6.Bayliss, 12.Lindsey, 11.Duventru
Oakley United: 1.Thompson, 4.B.Kinane, 2.Hurley, 5.West, 3.J.Kinane, 10.Walsh, 8.Falcus, 25.Kernan, 7.T.Beckett, 15.Dandridge(c), 9.Foster. Subs: 17.A.Beckett, 6.Palmer. 14.Atkinson, 11.Mannerings, 12.Lunn

The Ground
Stoke Mandeville currently play their home games at The Mandeville School, around midway between the town of Aylesbury and village of Stoke Mandeville. Much like the famous local hospital, the school and the ground are actually in Aylesbury rather than Stoke Mandeville. There's plenty of parking at the school, which is just a short walk through the school grounds to the football pitch. The artificial pitch is no different any other cage-style 3G ground. There are dugouts on the school side of the playing surface. No spectator cover is available.

Ground Number: 432
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A