Division One South is proving to be as colourful as it is exciting this season. Last week it was all purple after AFC Stoneham made it three from three and nineteen goals in the Goals For column after putting five more past Abbey Rangers. This week, it's all change after rampant AFC Portchester put eight past the leaders to end their 100% record and maintain their own in the process. The result put Portchy level on points with the leaders and with a game in hand. Elsewhere Ascot retained their 100% record in the Premier League whilst their reserves went down at Long Crendon, maintaining the Division One North leader's unblemished record.

Ascot United 5-2 Badshot Lea
Ascot maintained the 100% start to the season and stay top of the pile after three games. Dominique Carrington and a late first-half brace from Amelia Kimble had the hosts 3-1 up at the break. Philippa Holden and an added time goal from Nicole Brown gave the score line a bit of gloss for Ascot. Lucy Cook and Emma Gregory-Barns were on the mark for The Baggies. Check out the match report on the Ascot United web site.

Oxford City 3-3 Warminster Town
A proper ding-dong battle between these two. Bethany Chapman gave City a first minute lead before Rebecca Snelling equalised on the half-hour. One apiece at the break, Mia Blazey then put the visitors ahead but only for two minutes before Emily Harris levelled it up again. Ellie White them made it 3-2 to City just past the hour mark, only for Mia Blazey to grab her second a minute before the end. 

Winchester City Flyers 0-2 Wycombe Wanderers
After going down to Ascot on the opening day, Wycombe made it three without defeat on Sunday, grabbing their first maximum in the process. Katie Riddington scored for the third game running after 41 minutes. Emma Kern made it two just before the hour mark.
​Read the match report from the Wycombe Wanderers website.

Woodley United 2-0 Eastleigh
Goals either side of the break saw Woodley continue their unbeaten start to the season and move them up to third in the table. Sajunae Turner put United ahead in the 37th minute. Sarah Lawrence than added a second three minutes in to the second half. You can read all about the game in Wandering Tractor's excellent match report, whilst enjoying some superb action photos from Andy Wickes.

​Abingdon United Dev. 5-0 Caversham United
Caversham's difficult start to the season continued as they were hit for five by Abingdon.  Freya Gilmore scored the opener after 29 minutes, and that's the way it stayed until half-time. Mimi Hodges added two more to take her total to six for the season, Freya Gilmore scored again and Iva Georgievska also got on the scoresheet. The Abingdon Twitter feed has video of four of the goals:
Freya Gilmore 1-0 
Mimi Hodges, penalty for 2-0  
Mimi Hodges for 3-0  
Iva Georgievska 4-0  
​
Long Crendon 4-0 Ascot United Reserves
Top of the table Long Crendon were a goal up and a player up at half-time after Hannah Sheehan was sin-binned for Ascot on 43 minutes. However, even back to full strength, the Yellawomen couldn't stop the green tide as they added three more goals in the second period. Crendon goals came from Michelle Bailey (2), Megan Brockwell and Sarah Harrison.

Milton United 1-2 Kidlington
A Courtney Sumner double saw Kidlington return to winning ways as they saw off Milton United, a team that did the double over them last season. Milton lost for the second week in succession for the first time since they joined the Southern Region League. Natalie Evans responded for United, who drop one place in the league table.

Penn & Tylers Green P-P Eversley & California

Wycombe Wanderers u23 5-1 Chesham United Development
An own goal and a Kara Smith strike within the space of two first half minutes, gave Chesham a two goal lead at the break. However, Wycombe bounced back with five unanswered goals in the scond period. Shannon Read started the comeback in the 58th minute. Ammara Qureshi then equalised and put the home side ahead with two strikes in four minutes. Amaya Navarro added a fourth and Mia Parkin completed the scoring in the 85th minute.

​AFC Portchester 8-2 AFC Stoneham
A stunning first-half display from Portchester put them 7-0 up at the break against a Stoneham side who had only conceded twice in three games previously. The Purples recovered a little to score twice in the second half whereas Portchy added just one more. However, the damage was done. Stoneham retain top position on goal difference, but Portchy are now hot on their tails. Both Charmaine True and Eilidh Currie scored hat-tricks whilst Ella Wilson got a double. Stoneham replies came from Chloe Melton and Rebecca Moody. Read the full match report on the Portchester web site.

Abbey Rangers 2-4 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Rangers scored twice inside the opening 11 minutes through Millie Hackney and Isobel Saunders. However, it wasn't enough for them to take anything from the game. Ayuma Asira, Abi Lander, Emma Acott and Hollie Shaw were all on th scoreboard as Sports ran out 4-2 winners.

Eastleigh Reserves P-P Woking

Rushmoor 4-0 Fleet Town
An Emma Mutch hat-trick helped Rushmoor to their second win on the bounce and condemned Fleet to a second consecutive defeat. Mutch struck twice in five first half minutes to give the home side a two goal advantage at the break. Gemma Bennett then aded a third on 70 minutes before Mutch completed her treble with seven minutes remaining.

Selsey Development 1-1 Havant & Waterlooville
Darcie Rothwell put Selsey in front after 17 minutes. They held this into the break and well into the second period before Rosie Willis hit an equaliser for The Hawks on 69 minutes.result sees both sides retain thwir unbeaten start to the season with Havant in third spot and Selesey two places below but having played a ganme fewer.

​Premier League - FA Cup ties

AFC Whyteleafe v Badshot Lea
London & South East Regional Division1 North side Whyteleafe are yet to win in their league, but have also only lost once. They currently sit in 9th spot but have games in hand on most of the teams above them. The Baggies started their league campaign with a win but have been beaten in their last two outings.
AFC Whyteleafe, 15 Church Road, Whyteleafe, Surrey CR3 0AR

Ascot United v Wycombe Wanderers
This all Premier League clash is a repeat of the first game of the season. Ascot won that one 4-1 after being three up at the break. Since then Ascot have gone on to retain their 100% record and sit pretty at the top of the table. However, the defeat remains Wycombe's only reversal of the season so far, having drawn two and won one of their following three.
Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Buckingham United v Woodley United
Woodley's start to life back in the top flight couldn't have gone much better. They now face a visit to East Midlands Division 1 South bottom side Buckingham United who have lost their two opening games in the league. However, they did progress in the League Cup after beating fellow Div.1 South side Nuneaton Borough 5-4. United have yet to taste defeat in any competition so far and will want to keep it that way on Sunday.
Buckingham Pavilion, Stratford Road, Buckingham MK18 1NY

Eastleigh v AFC Portchester
This has the potential to be a fascinating match-up. Portchy have started their league season brilliantly, especially at the weekend when they took league leader's AFC Stoneham apart. Eastleigh's Premier League campaign started with two wins but they have since lost their next two games. Three of Portchester's next four games are against Eastleigh teams. Following this one they then take on the reserves in the league and two week's later welcome the reserves to the Wicor for a County Cup game.
The Silverlake Stadium, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 9HT

Shanklin v Winchester City Flyers
Shanklin have still only played a single league game this season, a 2-0 defeat at QK Southampton. They put out Division 1 South side Fleet Town in the previous round, winning 8-2 away from the isle. This will be their first game at home this season. Winchester scored their first league goal and took their first points at Eastleigh on the 17th September, but were beaten at home by Wycombe last time out. It's a busy week for them as they take on Basingstoke in the North Hants Cup on Tuesday evening.
The County Ground, Green Lane, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 7EU
Note: On Tuesday evening Flyers had a morale-boosting 11-0 win in the NHDA Cup against Basingstoke Town. Annie Northwood scored 6, Garcie Hodan 2, with Emily McDonough, Francesca Thornton and Libby Wilkinson adding to the score.
​
Slough Town v Oxford City
Both sides are used to playing on artificial pitches, so there will be no home surface advantage for Slough. The Rebels are top of the Thames Valley Division1 table with a 100% record and only a single goal conceded in three games. They beat Haddenham 5-2 in the previous round to earn this stab at a team two divisions above them.
City are yet to win but drew last time out and were only beaten by the odd goal in seven at Ascot two weeks ago.
Arbor Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

Warminster Town v Bournemouth Sports
An all Premier League tie featuring one team, Bournemouth Sports, who are unbeaten and another, Warminster, who are yet to win in the league. However, Town have shown improvement with two draws in their last two. They also met on the opening day of the season. Sports came out on top by 6-0 with both Becky Miles and Sarah Plummer scoring twice.
Weymouth Street, Warminster BA12 9NS

Division 1 North and FA Cup ties

Caversham United v Ascot United Reserves
The Goats return to Mapledurham looking to break their duck for the season. Both sides lost without scoring at the weekend. However, this was Ascot's first reversal this season giving them a full house, won one, drawn one, lost one. Despite losing both times, Caversham have managed to score five times in their two home league games this season. If they can tighten up at the back, their results could start to swing in their favour.
Mapledurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

Chesham United Development v Abingdon United Development
A contrast in fortunes so far for these two teams. Abingdon have yet to taste defeat in their three matches, racking up seven points and sitting in third sport. Meanwhile, Chesham have yet to register a point in three matches and have shipped fourteen goals so far. That's something they'll need to work on for Sunday as they prepare to face the league's top scorer Mimi Hodges, who has six already.
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chartridge Road, Chesham HP52 2RG

Eversley & California v Wycombe Wanderers u23
Another team with zero points are Eversley. However, they have played a game fewer than the two sides below them. Wycombe's start has been all very equal, won two, lost two. After losing their first two by the same 5-2 score, they have since clocked up and 8-2 and 5-1 victory giving them a much more healthy goal difference.
Fox Lane, Eversley RG27 0NS

Kidlington v Penn & Tylers Green
Kidlington return to Exeter Park fresh from a superb 2-1 win at Milton which saw them go second in the table. They face another tough test this weekend as Penn & Tylers Green come to town. Penn have now not played for two weeks after their last two matches were both postponed. Last season both games ended in stalemate, 2-2 at Exeter Park and 1-1 at French School Meadow. Kidlington hotshot Courtney Sumner scored n both games and has already smashed on four this season.
Exeter Park, Crown Road, Kidlington OX5 1AB

Milton United v Beaconsfield Town
United will be looking to end a run of two consecutive defeats, New Bradwell St Peter in the FA Cup and Kidlington at home in the league. Beaconsfield have won one, lost one in the league. In their three matches this season there have been 21 goals. In Milton's two games there have been 13. Certainly no lack of value for money when watching either team. Let's hope they don't cancel each other out.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

FA Cup
Long Crendon v Watford Development
Long Crendon have had a superb start to the season. Top of Southern Region Division 1 North with a 100% record and through to the next round of the County Cup. They now face their toughest test so far as they welcome Watford's National League Reserve South & Central Development team to The Rec.

Division 1 South & FA Cup ties

Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Eastleigh Reserves
After their opening day point at Fleet, Eastleigh have lost their next two league outings whereas Bournemouth have seen their fortunes sway the other way. After losing on day one, they have gone on to win twice on the rod, scoring ten times in the process. Can they maintain that form back at Chapel Gate
Bournemouth Sports Club Development, Chapel Gate, Nr Hurn Airport, East Parley, Hampshire BH23 6BL.

Fleet Town v Selsey Development
Selsey have yet to taste defeat in the league, winning one and drawing one of their opening two games. Fleet have yet to win having drawn one and lost two of their first three. It may be early in the season but, on paper, this looks like an important game. Defeat for Fleet would create a gap between the top and bottom of the table, greater than a single win.
Crookham Road, Fleet GU51 5FA

Havant & Waterlooville v Abbey Rangers
Very differing starts for these two. Whilst Abbey have suffrered three straight defeats, Havant have made light of their promotion, taking seven points from an unbeaten start to the season. With Stoneham and Portchester both in FA Cup action, The Hawks could go top of the table with a win in this game. However, a point or more for Rangers would lift them off the bottom of the table.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

FA Cup

AFC Stoneham v Rushmoor Community
Stoneham lost their 100% record in all competitions to Portchester on Sunday. They'll be looking to get straight back in the saddle as they welcome Rushmoor to Stoneham Lane. The sides met in the league on the opening day with The Purples crushing their opponents by 8-0. However, things have changed since then. Rushmoor have won their last two league outings, 3-1 against Eastleigh Reserves and 4-0 against Fleet. They will be fired up to set the record straight. 
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Eastleigh in the Community v AFC Portchester
Having disposed of Bemerton Heath Harlequins 4-0 in the previous round and starting their league season with three straight victories, Portchy get the opportunity to really test their credentials as they make the short journey North to take on Premier League Eastleigh.
The Silverlake Stadium, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 9HT

​A late running meeting prevented a Tuesday evening trip to Sandiacre Town this midweek. However, after a quick rearrangement of the calendar, a Wednesday night venture up the M1 was on. I was planning dip back into the Leicestershire Senior League for a clash between Ellistown and Premier league newcomers AFC North Kilworth. The only possible issue was the weather. It was torrential at times in Oxfordshire and I was unsure if the game would beat the rain. However, after a 4pm inspection, Ellistown tweeted the all clear. Game on, pending any further downpours. So, I set off to Leicestershire hoping that the weather up there was better than at home, where it was still monsoon season. Thankfully, it was. in fact, when I got to Ellistown, the sun was evening trying to make a brief appearance (very brief). This was not only  new ground for me, but also two new teams.

​The Ground
Ellistown FC play their home games at Terrace Road, just to the South of Ellistown village which, in turn, is just South of Coalville, in what was once the Leicestershire and South Derbyshire Coalfield. The area is now known more for the brickworks at nearby Ibstock.
The ground is well signposted on Terrace Road and has a large car park that sits in front of the clubhouse and adjacent to the Bowls Club. Access is through an entrance alongside the main clubhouse and changing room building. The gentleman on the gate asked me if I had visited before and, when I said no, he explained about the fact that the ground is 3-sided and where the snack bar and toilets were situated. He also helped to get me photos of both team sheets. A credit to the club, making visitors feel welcome. First impressions count for a lot.

​All of the facilities are on the car park side of the pitch. In fact, currently, the opposite side is not open to spectators, even though there is an uncovered stand there, bordered on both sides by tress which separate the main pitch from another full size playing surface behind.. This is because the club needed to widen the pitch for Step 6 ground-grading and the only way to do it was to remove the barrier on that side, making it a no-go for spectators. There are, however, two covered spectator areas on the car park side. A seating stand straddling the halfway line and a lean-to standing shelter midway between halfway and the goal.
Ellitown is well worth a visit. Decent ground and friendly locals.

​The Background
The last couple of seasons have seen AFC North Kilworth gain successive promotions. In 2021-22 they won the Leicestershire Senior League Division 2 title with a 100% record. Last season they finished third in Division 1, despite a three point reduction,  gaining promotion alongside Aylestone Park reserves and Ashby Ivanhoe Knights. Ellistown, in various guises such as United Collieries and Ellistown 7 Ibstock United, have largely played in the Leicestershire Senior League but also had some time in the East Midlands structure and were, in fact, one of the founder members in 2008. Despite both clubs spending many years in the Leicestershire League, as far as I can see, this is the first league meeting (although I'm happy to correct this if wrong). Although Killy started the season pretty well, taking 11 points from their opening 7 games and sitting fifth in the table, it was Ellistown who came into this game in the better form. Third at the start of play and unbeaten (100% record at home), they had the opportunity to go top of the table with a win. Averaging almost three goals per game, they also posed a threat going forward.

​The Game
Killy, kicking down the slight slope in the first half, started the game very quickly and, judging by the way they rushed to take throw-ins, were keen to keep a high temp going. Initially this approach appeared to unsettle the hosts but, after five minutes or so, they started to get a foothold on the game. Whether it was Ellistown's increased vigour or not, North Kilworth started to lose their way somewhat, constantly conceding possession and seemingly lacking in ideas to break down the home defence. This, in turn, encouraged the home ide to step up their game. Ellistown striker Shea Bates, who was to go on to have a great influence on the game, was the first to try his luck after being released on the right flank. He drove towards the penalty area before cutting in onto his left foot and unleashing an effort on target, drawing a good save from Killy's Will Ellison.
Two minutes later, however, the visitor's keeper was helpless as the home side took the lead. A slick passing move took Ellistown into the opposition penalty area where Hashim Bakar exchanged a neat one-two with Bates before slotting home past Ellison. A lovely, well-crafted goal. 1-0
Killy almost responded just past the quarter-hour mark when Grantas Gricius, around the penalty spot, met a cross from the right with a powerful header. However, Tyler Weeks in the home goal, was quick across his box and made the save look relatively comfortable. Straight back down the other end, Ellistown captain Ethan Bibby tested Ellison from range, with the stopper coming out on top again. It was certainly not one-way traffic at this point but, whereas Ellistown were stringing passes together and making progress, North Kilworth could not hold on to possession, either playing long balls that were picked off or misplacing passes in midfield. 
The partnership of Bates and Bakar came up trumps again on 26 minutes. Once again Bates was the provider, slipping the ball to Bakar who then used some good footwork to make just enough space to slide the ball past Ellison. 2-0
The home side continued to look the more dangerous of the two sides with visiting goalkeeper Ellison certainly the busier. He was once again called on with 5 minutes remaining until half-time. Pulling off a double stop to smuggle the ball out for a corner. Nothing came of that but, just before the break, the hosts almost made it three and it was Bakar again with the opportunity. This time, after a little bit of pinball, the ball dropped to him six yards out. However, he was already off balance and had to snatch at the chance, sending it wide of the mark.

HT Ellistown 2 AFC North Kilworth 0. Killy started at a blinding pace but then seemed to lose their way, losing possession too readily. Ellistown, who looked rattled in the opening minutes, recovered well and began to exert pressure. The strike partnership of Weeks and Bakar proving to be a constant threat to the Killy defence.

​At 2-0, the next goal was going to be crucial. Killy came out for the second period looking more positive again but it was the home team who struck the killer blow after 53 minutes. Once again it was the double-act of Bates and Bakar with Bates, as always, the provider. He broke down the right flank, knocking the ball past his marker and beating him for pace before sliding the ball across the six yard box for Bakar to finish it off. Ellison got a hand to it, almost pulling off a remarkable save, but couldn't keep it out. 3-0 and a hat-trick for Bakar, who was immediately substituted. His work for the evening done.
There was no way back for Killy at this point, not that they were going to throw in the towel but it was hard to see them getting anything from the game.
Just past the hour Bibby drove in a stinging free-kick that Ellison could only beat away. A minute later, Bates was put clean through and it looked as if he may finally get the goal his performance deserved. However, that was not accounting for the determination of Killy captain Michael Marsden, who made up a lot of ground to get a last ditch tackle in on the Ellistown man. Excellent defending, especially given that the game was as good as lost already.
The introduction of substitutes on both sides changed the game a little. On 65 minutes Kilworth brought on two ne players whilst awaiting the taking of a free-kick just outside the home penalty area. Number 18 (no numbers on the team sheet), with his first touch, flashed his shot just wide of the post. Close to being an immediate impact. The same player also forced a full length diving save from Weeks with fifteen minutes to go. He looked lively after his introduction but it was never going to be enough for the visitors.

FT Ellistown 3 AFC North Kilworth 0. A solid performance from Ellistown, well worthy of the three points, which sees them jump to the top of the table. Kilworth drop a place to sixth, behind Sileby on goal difference. Hashim Bakar's hat-trick moves him to within a goal of current league top-scorer, Zakari Adams of Allexton & New Parks.
Kilworth are back at home on Saturday when 8th placed Thurnby Rangers come to town. Ellistown, meanwhile, have a Saturday off before welcoming fifth placed Sileby Town to Terrace Road next Wednesday.

Ellistown: Weeks, Beaumont, Cotter, Brooker, Higgins, Green, Bibby(c), Rood, Ngueusseu, Bakar, Bates. Subs: Lewis, Collins, Blake, Yadav, Stylianou
AFC North Kilworth: Ellison, Garrard, Storer, Marsden(c), Lanni, Lane, Gaze, Wells, Dyke, Hookway, Gricius. Subs: Sutherland, Clauss, Cox, Roe, Smith

Ground Number: 379
Att: 90
Entrance: £4.00
Programme: N/A

​This week's round-up may start as usual with the Premier League, but team of the week has to go to AFC Stoneham for their blistering start to the season. Additionally, their weekend fixture with third placed Portcheter, is arguably the game of the day on Sunday. However, we do start with the premier League and what was a fantastically entertaining clash between Ascot and Oxford City.

Ascot United 4-3 Oxford City
I spent Sunday riding Mandrill Mayhem at Chessington but for a rollercoaster ride, I could have just dropped in at The Racecourse where Ascot and Oxford City served up a fast of entertainment. Laura Spark and Hayley Cruickshank put the Yellawomen two up with only seven minutes gone. Emily Harris got a goal back for City on the half-hour mark. Ellie White then levelled it immediately after the break before the same player put the visitors ahead just before the hour. Two goals in three minutes, first from Nicole Brown and then from Tiffany Skinner, edged Ascot back in front and, this time, they held on.
Read the match report from the Ascot United website.

Eastleigh 0-1 Winchester City Flyers
After back to back 2-0 league defeats, Flyers got their first win of the season thanks to a second-half Hannah Chalk strike. City then held out to also grab their first clean sheet since December 2022, condemning Eastleigh to their first defeat of the season.

Bournemouth Sports 1-1 Woodley United
Rosie Eden had the league leaders ahead before the break, but a spirited Woodley performance in the second half saw May Hamblin equalise and the Berkshire side battle to a hard-earned point.
Photographer Andy Wickes travelled with the Woodley squad to record the action for us.

Wycombe Wanderers 2-2 Warminster Town
Much like Ascot v Oxford City, this game was topsy-turvy but, in the end, the was no way of separating the sides. Wycombe took the lead after just 10 minutes through Charlotte Hill. The goal was cancelled out after only four minutes when Mia Blazey scored. Rebecca Snelling then had the visitors in front, which is how it stayed until half-time. Just after the hour Katie Riddington popped up with the equaliser, and that is how it stayed. Honours even.
Charlotte Hill goal direct from a corner
Katie Riddington's equaliser

Caversham United 2-8 Wycombe Wanderers U23
The goalkeeping curse struck again for Caversham as they lost their new keeper, Charlie Kirk, to an early injury, leaving Ashton Downey to don the gloves. Taking advantage of the situation, Wanderers were 6-1 up at the break. Jessica Poulter put Wycombe a goal up after just 4 minutes, Ammara Qureshi added a first half hat-trick with Daisy Thompson and Shannon Read also getting in on the act. A Kate Stewart goal added a small consolation for The Goats before the break.  Stewart then struck a second before the hour mark only for Poulter and Read to quash any thoughts of a comeback.

Chesham United Dev. P-P Penn & Tylers Green

Eversley & California P-P Milton United

Kidlington 1-3 Ascot United Reserves
This one was goalless at the break but sprang to life shortly afterwards when Olivia Mansell and two from Millie Bilcliff gave the visitors three goals before the hour mark. Abigail Haynes was on the mark for Kidlington fo the second time this season, but it wasn't enough to rescue anything from the game for The Greens.

County Cup
Beaconsfield 0-4 Long Crendon
Sarah Dougall put Crendon one up after just two minutes in this County Cup clash. Sarah Harrison then made it 2-0 two minutes before the break. Eleanor Lovelock then struck twice in the second half to seal progress into the next round for Long Crendon.

​AFC Stoneham 5-1 Abbey Rangers
Three from three for Stoneham, who are absolutely flying at the top of the South table. Sunday's victory, however, came on the back of a four goal second half display after the teams went into the break level pegging. Chloe Melton put Stoneham ahead in the 7th minute but this was cancelled out by Lisa Smith 10 minutes later. Stoneham then hit their visitors with a quickfire four goals in nine minutes. Melton was on the case again after 50 minutes, then Leah Webster and Chloe Marshall got in on the act before Chloe Melton completed her hat-trick on 61 minutes. A tough one for Abbey to take as they continue to look for their first points of the season.

Havant & Waterlooville 3-1 Fleet Town
Town remain winless as Havant & Waterlooville made it two from two in the league. Emma-Jane May gave The Hawks a narrow half-time lead. Heather McCabe levelled it up just past the hour mark but parity only lasted two minutes before Jodie Burchell struck for Havant. Megan Gratton then wrapped it up on 75 minutes.

Rushmoor 3-1 Eastleigh Reserves
Third time lucky for Rushmoor as they finally got their season under way. Megan Simpson-Howells and Mary Kinsella gave Rushmoor a half-time lead. Caitlin Norrell pulled a goal back for Eastleigh after 65 minutes, giving them hope of a comeback. However, with ten minutes remaining, Jenny Gillam sealed the points for the home team.

Selsey Development P-P Bournemouth Sports Reserves

Woking 0-2 AFC Portchester
A goal in each half made it two from two for Portchy, condemning Woking to their second consecutive league reversal. Paula Taylor was on the mark after half an hour to give Portchester the lead. Then, after an hour of play, Elinor Williams struck the second for the visitors. Match report from the Portchester web site.

​Premier
Ascot United v Badshot Lea
Ascot will start the day a point behind leaders Bournemouth Sports with a game in hand and, with Sports not playing this weekend, United could be top by Sunday evening with a win. However, newcomers Badshot Lea will not be coming to town to make up the numbers despite defeat at Woodley in their last league game.
The Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Oxford City v Warminster Town
City were unlucky to find themselves on the wrong end of a seven goal thriller last weekend, leaving them with just a single point from three games. However, this will be their first match on home ground this season. Visitors Warminster are also on one point from their three opening fixtures. That came in their 2-2 draw at Wycombe on Sunday.
Marsh Lane, Marston, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX3 0NQ

Winchester City Flyers v Wycombe Wanderers
Flyers notched their first three points of the season last Sunday whilst Wycombe came from 2-1 down to earn a point against Warminster, taking their tally to two for the season, both of which have been taken at home. Wanderers did the double over City last season, winning 1-0 at Hilliers Way and 3-0 back at Burnham.
Alton FC, The Anstey Park Enclosure, Anstey Park, Anstey Road, Alton, Hampshire GU34 2NB

Woodley United v Eastleigh
Eastleigh lost their 100% record at the weekend when they lost 1-0 to Winchester City Flyers. Meanwhile, it's been a great start to life back in the Premier for Woodley, who go into this game unbeaten after two games.
Two seasons ago, when these two were last in the same division, Eastleigh won 4-1 at The Silverlake Stadium and were then awarded a walkover in the reverse fixture, when Woodley had already conceded relegation.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, Berks RG5 3HE

Division 1 North
Abingdon United Dev. v Caversham United
After losing their first three, all at home, The Goats will probably be relishing a chance to play away from Mapeldurham. However, third-placed Abingdon might not be the easiest place to go at the moment. The yellows won their only other home league game 5-2 against Wycombe's U23s who put eight past United on Sunday. On the plus side, the Goats may have shipped a few goals but they have also scored five of their own. Abingdon striker Mimi Hodges already has four goals and an assist this season.
Northcourt Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 1PL

Long Crendon v Ascot United Reserves
It was a good weekend for Long Crendon. Not only did they progress in the County Cup, they also retained top spot and now have a game in hand over second placed Kidlington. Having said that, fourth placed Ascot are only two points back and could leapfrog the Greens with a win. Last season's strike force, Michelle Baily and Eleanor Lovelock, already have five goals between them this term.
Long Crendon Recreation Ground, 9 Chearsley Road, Long Crendon HP18 9BS

Milton United v Kidlington
Kidlington missed out on the chance to go top at the weekend, losing at home to Ascot Utd Reserves, whilst Milton's game was postponed. Last season Kidlington were unbeaten until Milton ended their run with a 7-2 win at Exeter Close. Milton then won the home match 4-0 to complete the double.
Milton Heights, Potash Lane, Milton, Abingdon OX14 4XB

Penn & Tylers Green v Eversley & California
Penn have only played a single league game so far, winning 8-2 at Beaconsfield on the opening day. Eversley are yet to get a point having lost their two opening matches, both of which were on the road. Penn did the double over the Boars last season, winning 2-0 at Fox Lane and 3-0 at French School Meadow.
I'm still going to refer to this one as the Ampersand Derby.
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Wycombe Wanderers u23 v Chesham United Development
Wanderers come into this game buoyed by their 8-2 mauling of Caversham at the weekend and will want to continue that form against a Chesham side who are yet to muster a point. Both came up through the Thames Valley League but, as far as I can see, did not meet during those seasons. Ammara Qureshi's hat-trick at the weekend took her into the top five divisional scorers chart.
Burnham FC, 18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

Division 1 South
AFC Portchester v AFC Stoneham
Two sides with a 100% record, so something has to give. Portchester have started the season very well after their promotion but their credentials will be seriously tested by a Stoneham side which is absolutely on fire. The Purples have scored 19 goals in their three league games so far, only conceding two in the process. Portchy will have to be especially on their guard when Stoneham's Chloe Melton is near their goal. With eight goals in three games, the striker is way ahead in the top-scorer table.
Venue: AFC Portchester Women's

Abbey Rangers v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Abbey are yet to get off the mark this season. However, this is their first game at Addlestone Moor, so could home advantage make the difference? Bournemouth have won one and lost one. They opened with a 3-0 home defeat to Havant and Waterlooville but then came out on top in a topsy-turvy 6-4 win at Rushmoor. Their game with Selsey Development on Sunday was postponed.
Addlestone Moor, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 2QH

Eastleigh Reserves v Woking
Both of these teams are yet to taste league victory this season. Eastleigh did take a point on the opening day, drawing 0-0 at Fleet, but then lost 3-1 to Rushmoor last time out. Woking's two league defeats have, oddly, both come at the hands of Porchester, 3-1 away from home and 2-0 at the Eastwood Leisure Centre.
Oasis Academy Mayfield, Ashley Cresent, Southampton SO19 9NA

Rushmoor v Fleet Town
Fleet's 3-1 defeat at Havant & Waterlooville at the weekend leaves them without a win after their first two games. Rushmoor took their first three-pointer in three games after beating Eastleigh Reserves 3-1. These two sides last met in league action two seasons ago, when both were in the Hampshire County Division 1. Fleet did the double that season, winning 3-2 at home and 2-1 in Farnborough. However, Rushmoor had the last laugh, finishing second to gain promotion.
Southwood Pavilion, Grasmere Road, Farnborough GU14 0LE

Selsey Development  v Havant & Waterlooville
To date, The Hawks have made light of their huge leap up the divisions. The Hampshire League Division 3 champions have jumped three divisions but still sit in second place, with a 100% record, after two games. Selsey also have a 100% record. However, in their case, it is only after a single league game. That came with a 4-2 win against Abbey Rangers who, coincidentally, Selsey also beat on the opening day last season. They then only took a point from the next three games, so will want to change that pattern this season.
The High Street Ground, Chichester PO20 0QG

There were a few options for games this Wednesday but the one that caught my eye was the Central Midlands Premier South clash between Graham Street Prims and Melbourne Victoria. Prims have been on my list to visit for some time now, not least because of their unusual club name. It was also a good opportunity to get a first glimpse of their opponents, who also have an interesting origin to their name dating back to a 1950 tour of the UK by Russian side Dynamo Moscow. They've also been making steady progress up the leagues in recent seasons, having gained promotion from the Midlands Regional Alliance in 2020.
​
The Ground
Graham Street Prims, founded in 1904 by member of the Primitive Methodist Church in Graham Street Derby, now play their home games outside the city centre, at The Fred Harding Ground in Spondon. Although this was my first visit to this ground, I have almost been there before. I was at very near neighbours Borrowash Victoria just over a year ago to see them take on Wollaton (Vics Brace Leaves Wollaton Flagging). The two clubs are so close that they share a car park giving rise to the nickname of their derby game, El Carparkio.

​It's fair to say that The Fred Harding Ground is the smaller of the two stadiums. It is accessed via a narrow passage that runs behind some buildings that include the toilets and snack bar. This brings you into the ground adjacent to one of the corner flags. There are two covered spectator areas. The seating stand is situated immediately in front of the entrance gate, between corner flag and goal at the Borrowash Road end Straddling the halfway line to your right as you enter, there is a sheltered standing area, with the floodlights of Victoria's ground looming up in near distance. Opposite this are the dugouts. There's no discernible slope on the pitch.

​The Background
Coming into the game unbeaten Graham Street Prims sat in second spot, only behind Mickleover RBL on goals scored, but having played two games fewer than the leaders. They were also boasting a 100% home record in which they had scored eleven without reply in their three games so far (albeit against the three teams currently occupying the last three positions in the table). Melbourne, who had only played four game sin total, had a record of won two, lost two. They too had a 100%, unblemished home record, but had only played there once so far. Their away record had seen them win once but lose twice so far, most recently a 2-1 defeat at South Normanton Athletic. For a team that hails from the home of Thomas Cook, they don't seem to be travelling too well this season. Melbourne won Division One West last season, gaining promotion to the top flight. Consequently, this appeared to be the first ever league meeting between the teams.

​The Game
The first real chance for either side came in the seventh minute and fell to the home side. A cross field ball, from left to right, was misjudged by a Melbourne defender allowing Alex Seale a clear view of goal. His strike was clean but was well saved by visitor's goalkeeper Jake Laban. As it turned out, this was the first in a series of one-on-one battles fought by these two players throughout the game. Melbourne responded to the threat with a chance of their own when Jack Goodband fired off a shot that Jack Morley did well to save.
The next ten minutes saw the game swing from one end to the other without generating a notable goalmouth opportunity for either team. However, just as we hit the halfway mark of the first period, Melbourne came within a whisker of taking the lead, and what a goal it would have been. Tyler Withers, out on the left flank, cut back onto his right foot before curling a delightful effort over Morley, only to see his strike smack against the inside of the far post and bounce away to safety. So close for the visitors. A few minutes after this let-off, Seale and Laban went head to head again. Seale once again hit the target but was thwarted by another save from the Dynamo keeper.
The game continued apace, both sides working hard and no quarter being given in the tackle. As a neutral, it was a fascinating encounter despite the lack of goals. I had fully expected, given Graham Street's home record, that Melbourne would be focussed on keeping it tight and maybe trying to hit back on the break. Instead, they had played the game on the front foot, trying to go forward at every opportunity and taking the game to their hosts.
Having said that, it was the home side who had the last say of the first half when Max Bulmer's effort was comfortably saved by Laban. It pretty much summed up the half. Certainly no lack of effort, but no end product.

HT Graham Street Prims 0 Melbourne Dynamo 0. A very closely contested half of football with little to separate the teams. Melbourne came closest to scoring when Withers hit the post, but Jake Laban was the busier of the two keepers. Overall in my opinion, Melbourne slightly edged the half but the game could easily swing wither way in the second half.

​The home side appeared to come out with the bit between their teeth in the second half. You sensed a definite swing in the pattern of play with Dynamo being pushed deeper. Eight minutes in, Prims won a corner on their right. The ball was swung in dangerously, finding Elliott Dawson in space. He placed his header back across goal but wide of the mark. The skipper had his head in his hands, knowing he should have at least hit the target. It didn't stop Prims from continuing to push forward though. Melbourne were having to dig deep to keep the red and white stripes out. Not that the game was being played exclusively in the Dynamo half. Just past the hour mark the visitors came close to going in front when Withers once again struck the woodwork, this time accidentally when his mis-hit cross deceived the keeper but came back off the bar. Cue action back at the other end and Seale v Laban part three. The Prims winger was quick to react to a loose ball in the penalty area but his snapshot was once again well stopped by Laban.
The balance of play was still weighted in favour of the home side, but Melbourne showed they still had a say when substitute Isaac Gosling cut in from the left and fired a shot across goal which beat everyone but narrowly flashed wide of the post.
There was almost a bizarre opening goal on 78 minutes. Morley came out of his box to make a clearance but was closed down by Dynamo substitute James Smith. The keeper smashed the ball against the onrushing striker seeing it loop back over his head towards the goal. Luckily for Prims, there was not enough pace on the ball and Morley was able to get back to claim it.
The relief was short-lived though. With just under 10 minutes to go Melbourne scored the first goal that Prims have conceded at home all season. A long throw from the left was flicked on for Tyler Withers, arriving at the back post to nod over the line from close range. 0-1
With ten minutes still remaining there was time for the home side to redress the balance but, try as they might, they couldn't find a way through and, as often happens when a team is pressing forward, they got caught out at the back. Two minutes into added time and another Melbourne substitute, Sam Simpson, applied the coup de grace to their performance, practically guaranteeing the three points. 0-2.
There was barely any time left on the clock, but time enough for the night to get even worse for Prims when Callum Wilson saw red for a late lunge borne of frustration.

FT Graham Street Prims 0 Melbourne Dynamo 2. This one is going down in my book as a plan that came together perfectly. It was certainly no smash and grab from Melbourne. Yes, they were under the cosh a little at the start of the second half but in the main this was an even contest. The difference being that Dynamo took their opportunities whereas Prims either mis-fired or were denied by a good performance from visiting goalkeeper Laban.
Prims remain in second place but can now be overtaken by a number of teams with games in hand on them. Melbourne move up to eighth, four points behind Prims with a game in hand. On Saturday Prims make the trip to Matlock to take on mid-table Wirksworth Ivanhoe. Melbourne are back at home for the visit of 14th placed Mansfield Hosiery Mills.

Graham Street Prims: Morley, Walmsley, R.Seale, Knowles, Dawson(c), Bailey, A.Seale, Lynam, Bulmer, Wilson, H.Stevens. Subs: Lewis, Goral, Diamini, Greatorex, Birkinshaw
Melbourne Dynamo: 1.Laban, 16.Hughes, 8.Jones, 5.Moore, 12.Fox, 19.Peveney, 6.Supple, 7.Poynton, 11.Goodband, 4.Nkumrah, 2.Withers. Subs: 9.Smith, 10.Tovell, 17.Gosling, 18.Simpson


Ground Number: 378
Att: 40
Entrance: £5.00
Programme: N/A

​The FA Cup kicked off for Division One teams this weekend. However, it turned out to not be the most successful day for Southern Region Teams. Of the eight teams entering the first Qualifying stage only one, AFC Portchester, made it through to Round Two. However, with the Premier League teams entering in the next round, league interest remains.
Speaking og the elague. In the Premier both Bournemouth Sports and Eastleigh made it two out of two wins, whilst Woodley started their campaign with three points. Division 1 North is all green with Kidlington and Long Crendon leading the way. In the South Stoneham have started like a train whilst Rushmoor and Bournemouth Sports Reserves played out a 10 goal thriller.

​Warminster Town  0-1 Eastleigh
A late first-half Sheree Bell-Jack strike, her second of the season, was enough to see Eastleigh retain their 100% start to the season and condemn Warminster to a second straight defeat. It's been a tough start for Warminster who faced a rampant Bournemouth side in their opening game. Only conceding once to an Eastleigh side who are in their third Premier season is sign of a marked improvement.

Winchester City Flyers 0-2 Bournemouth Sports
Becky Miles scored twice for Sports in the first half, who then shored it up to stay top of the table with a perfect record. Eight goals scored and none conceded so far in their two games. For Winchester it is the exact opposite, no points or goals for them yet after two consecutive 2-0 reversals. They'll want to get last season's top scorer Libby Wilkinson up and running as soon as possible.
Winchester City's First Team Manager's view on the game

Woodley United 2-1 Badshot Lea 
Sarah Lawrence scored the first goal of Woodley's return to the Premier League after 26 minutes. United led by a goal to nil at half-time. May Hamblin made it two early in the second half before Emily Foss pulled a goal back for Badshot Lea. As always the match action was brilliantly captured by Andy Wicks Photos.
​
Wycombe Wanderers 2-2 Oxford City 
Emily Harris for Oxford City and Amy Leach for Wycombe, ensured that the scores were level at the break. Katie Riddington put the Chairgirls ahead in the second half, but Bethany Chapman struck a late equaliser for City to leave the spoils shared.
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​Ascot United Reserves 1-1 Abingdon Utd Development
Honours even in the battle of the yellows. Olivia Mansell gave Ascot the lead inside 20 minutes. However, on the half hour Abingdon drew level through yet another Mimi Hodges goal. The United hotshot now has four goals in two games. A second half penalty save kept Ascot level as Abingdon pushed for a winner.

Beaconsfield 5-2 Wycombe Wanderers U23
All square at the break after Wycombe had taken a two goal lead through Daisy Thompson and Maria Toledo. Grainne McNally and Lucy Casey made it 2-2 with goals in the last two minutes of the first period. After the break the home side managed three relatively late goals to take the points. McNally completed her hat-trick with goals in the 77th and 87th minute before Emma Hester completed the scoring three minutes into added time.

Kidlington 4-2 Chesham Utd Dev
Chesham took the lead in this game through an 8th minute Kara Smith goal. However, POTM Cloe Woodward, Kiera Isaac and Abigail Haynes had the Greens 3-1 up at the halfway point. A Kidlington game would not be complete without a Courtney Sumner goal, and the striker did not disappoint, adding the fourth after 67 minutes. Emma Nolan was on the mark for United, but it wasn't enough to prevent Kidlington making it two from two.

Long Crendon 4-1 Eversley & California
Long Crendon made it two out of two after being made to battle for the points against Eversley. The game was level at half-time but Crendon took some control in the second period, hitting three unanswered goals to go top on goal difference from Kidlington. Ella Chandler was on target for The Boars with Charlotte Cairns, Michelle Bailey and Emma Leith amongst the goals for Long Crendon.
More excellent photos from the game courtesy of Wings Media

Women's FA Cup

Caversham United 1-3 Camden & Islington United
After opening day defeat in the league, the Goats crashed out of the FA Cup on Sunday to Camden & Islington United. Jade Slater bagged two for the London outfit. Caitlin Levy pulled one back for Caversham with just over 10 minutes remaining, but Kay Donovan made sure for the Londoners in the 85th minute. Camden will now face a trip to Headstone Manor who put out Tilehurst Panthers on Sunday.

New Bradwell St Peter 3-0 Milton Utd
The newly promoted Petes put together an almost perfect performance against Milton. Bradwell controlled the game from minute 1 to minute 90, never giving the United team a chance to get going. Cara Brooker had them a goal up at half-time. Emily Hale and Courtney Crawley added two more in the second half. New Bradwell will now welcome Denham United in the next round.
Check out the match blog on the BotP website (United Fail Three Petes Challenge)

Watford Dev. 3-0 Penn & Tylers Green (16:30 kick off)
Penn fell foul to a three goal salvo from Watford of the National League Reserve South East & Central Division. The Hornets struck through Rebecca Lovelace and a double from Etta Sam. Watford's prize for this win is a trip to another Southern Region Division 1 North side, Long Crendon who progressed via a walkover, after Mortimer withdrew.

​Eastleigh Reserves 1-6  AFC Stoneham
Stoneham scored there times in each half to maintain their near perfect start to the season. Mia Flood grabbed two goals with Chloe Melton, Chloe Marshall, Madison Payne and Abbie Awdas also on target. That make it two consecutive victories and fourteen scored in those two games. The only slight blot on their record being the 56th minute strike from Emma Simpson which was no more than a consolation for The Spitfires in this local derby.

Rushmoor 4-6 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
No shortage of entertainment or goalmouth action in this one. An Emma Acott first-half hat-trick and a Faye Hawkins strike had Sports seemingly coating at half-time. However, Emma Mutch with two and a Jenny Gillam goal reduced the deficit to 3-4 with 20 minutes to go. The score remained the same until the sixth minute of added time when all hell broke loose. First of all, in the 96th minute, Sian Tilly got in on the act to make it 3-5, then Hawkins grabbed her second to make it 3-6 in the 99th minute. However, that still wasn't the end of it as Vicky James added a 100th minute consolation for Rushmoor.

Women's FA Cup

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 0-4 AFC Portchester
Harlequins were swept aside by a vibrant Portchester display. Charmain True struck twice in the space of three first half minutes, whilst Millie Bradbury and Sophie Bell were both also on target. A superb win for Portchy who now face a tricky looking short trip to Southern Region Premier League Eastleigh in the next round.
Take a look at this interesting, behind the scenes, vlog featuring Portchy striker Paula Taylor
Match report from the Portchester web site.
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Fleet Town 2-8 Shanklin
Shanklin went back to the Isle of Wight safe in knowledge that they were through to the next round thanks to an eight goal salvo that sank Fleet. Sienna Brennen led the way with a hat-trick. There were braces for both Thea Broadhead and Faith Wagstaff with another goal notched by Holly Stephan. Shanklin's reward? The visit of another Southern Region side as Premier League Winchester City Flyers take the Red Funnel across The Solent (other ferry companies are available).

Richmond & Kew 3-2 Abbey Rangers
Greater London side Richmond & Kew edged out Abbey Rangers to progress in the Cup. The home side's scorers were Charlotte Close, Rosie Hilton and Lauren Rabbitts. Jessica Tripp and Leah Robertson were on the mark for Rangers. The victory for Richmond & Kew sets up a very interesting looking local derby at home Richmond Park in the next round.

Shaftesbury 3-2 Havant & Waterlooville 
Lily Greaves and Nikki Castle gave South West Regional Eastern Divison Shaftesbury a 2-0 advantage at the break. Shortly after half-time Castle added her second, but goals from Jodie Burchell and Emma-Jame May made it an interesting last 15 minutes or so.#
Shaftesbury will take on QK Southampton, currently second in the Hampshire Premier League, at home in the next round.

Woking 2-3 Leatherhead
A Helen Ogle goal in each half was not enough for The Cards as they went out of the cup to local rivals Leatherhead. Aesha Ayimba-Golding gave The Tanners the lead before a Cassie Brown double put the visitors three up. Ogle pulled one back before the break and stuck again with 20 minutes to go but Woking couldn't find an equaliser.
Leatherhead will welcome London & South East side Sutton United in the next round.

​Premier
Ascot United v Oxford City
Ascot c an claim a 100% league record. However, they have only played one game so far, beating Wycombe 4-1 on the opening day. Oxford have played two and are yet to win having lost 3-1 at Eastleigh and drawn 2-2 at Wycombe last time out. Last season saw two big wins for United, 6-1 at the Racecourse and 7-0 at Marsh Lane.
Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Bournemouth Sports v Woodley United
Sports are flying so far. Played two, won two. Scored eight, conceded zero. Woodley's delayed start to life back in the Premier went well as they won their opening game 2-1 against fellow newcomers Badshot Lea. This will be a big test of their credentials but one they will no doubt be completely up for. This one has the potential to be game of the day.
Chapel Gate, Nr Hurn Airport, East Parley, Hampshire BH23 6BL.

Wycombe Wanderers v Warminster Town
Two sides looking for their first win of the season and, Town's case, their first point. The Chairgirls obtained their sole point from last weekend's draw with Oxford City. Warminster have yet to score a goal in their new league but will be hoping to get off the mark this Sunday.
Burnham FC, 18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

Eastleigh v Winchester City Flyers
Flyers make the short journey South to take on an Eastleigh who are only being kept off the top by Bournemouth's superior goal difference. The Spitfires are also two from two this season nut have not quite been so prolific in front of goal then their rivals. Flyers have been consistent, but not in a way they would want, having lost both games by the same 2-0 score line.
Oasis Academy Mayfield, Ashley Crescent, Southampton SO19 9NA
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Division One North
Caversham United v Wycombe Wanderers U23
Two sides looking to kickstart their season. Wycombe prop up the table after losing their two opening games both by five goals to two, despite being level at half-time in both matches. The Goats have only played a single league game, losing 7-3 at home to Milton United on the opening day.
Mapeldurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD
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Chesham United Dev. Penn & Tylers Green
Penn will be looking to shake off Sunday's FA Cup defeat and focus on building on their opening day 8-2 league win at Beaconsfield. Chesham are still looking for their first point of the season but have shown that they are capable of scoring goals, hitting five in defeats to Kidlington and Long Crendon.
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chartridge Road, Chesham HP52 2RG

Eversley & California v Milton United
Both sides lost by three goal sat the weekend. Eversley going down 4-1 at Long Crendon in the league, whilst Milton crashed out of the FA Cup by 3-0 at New Bradwell St Peter in front of 80 spectators including yours truly (United Fail Three Petes Challenge). In this game last season a single April England goal was the difference between the teams as Milton took three points back to The Heights.
Eversley Sports Association, Fox Lane, Eversley RG27 0NS

Kidlington v Ascot United Reserves
With table toppers Long Crendon playing in the County Cup, Kidlington have the opportunity to go clear at the top if they can beat Ascot in this third consecutive home game. The Yellawomen drew their opening league game with fellow newcomers Abingdon United Dev. but will need to be on their guard against a Greens team who have scored three or more in both of their opening two games.
Exeter Park, Crown Road, Kidlington OX5 1AB

County Cup
Beaconsfield v Long Crendon
After two straight league victories have left them sitting top of the pile, Long Crendon get a week off for a County Cup tie with league newbies Beaconsfield. Expect goals. In the four games these sides have played so far this season there has been a total of 30 goals scored. Beaconsfield bounced back from a heavy opening day defeat to come back from two goals down to beat Wycombe Wanderers U23 5-2 on Sunday.
Venue: Beaconsfield Town FC Womens 1st Team

Division One South

AFC Stoneham v Abbey Rangers
Stoneham have started the season in stunning form, winning both league games, scoring fourteen and conceding just one goal. Abbey have only played one league game, away at Selsey Development. Rangers let a 2-1 half-time lead slip, going down 4-2. Honours were even in the two league meetings last season. Stoneham won their home game 4-1 but an Isobel Saunders goal saw Abbey win 1-0 at Addlestone Moor.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Havant & Waterlooville v Fleet Town
Havant & Waterlooville opened their league account with a 3-0 win at Bournemouth Sports Reserves but then went out of the cup 3-2 at Shaftesbury on Sunday. Meanwhile, Fleet fought out an opening day goalless draw with Eastleigh Reserves before their FA Cup nightmare at the weekend that saw them crash out 8-2 at home to Shanklin.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

Rushmoor v Eastleigh Reserves
Both of these teams conceded six goals at home at the weekend. Rushmoor lost 6-4 to Bournemouth Sports Reserves in a breathless encounter on Sunday. Eastleigh lost their local derby 6-1 at home to early pace-setters AFC Stoneham, who put eight past Rushmoor on the opening day.
Southwood Pavilion, Grasmere Road, Farnborough GU14 0LE

Selsey Development v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Currently third and fifth respectively, these two both have three points. However, Selsey have picked theirs up from one game whereas Bournemouth have played twice. Selsey will be looking to avoid the situation they were in last season where they won their first home league game but then only took one more point there all season. Sports will be looking to shore up defensively after conceding 7 in their opening two games.
Sidlesham Recreation Ground, Selsey Road, Sidlesham, Chichester PO20 7NE

Woking v AFC Portchester
In a very unusual quirk of planning, this fixture is the reverse of the opening day. By the end of Sunday both sides will be in the unusual position of having played two league games but have yet to meet any other teams. Two weeks ago it was Portchy who came out on top with an Eilidh Currie hat-trick leading them to a 3-1 victory.
Eastwood Leisure Centre, ​Albert Drive, Sheerwater, Woking GU22 5RF

The Women's FA Cup kicked off this weekend and, after having had to ditch my plans to finally visit Woodley United and have a chat with Wandering Tractor fresh from his charity walk, I decided on a game much closer to home. New Bradwell St Peter of the East Midlands Regional League taking on Southern Region side Milton United.

The Ground
I have visited New Bradwell Recreation Ground before, but it has been a while. A quick look back through the archives revealed that it was in fact over seven years ago. On that occasion I saw New Bradwell's men's team beat Edgware 2-1 on a chilly February evening (Saints, Sinner And A Late Winner).
The ground hasn't changed a huge amount in the intervening years. However, this was the first time I had been there in daylight, so much more of the location was revealed. The recreation ground, home of New Bradwell Sports Association, is home to both the local cricket and football clubs. There's a good sized car park adjacent to the clubhouse, which houses both a bar and snack bar. The cricket square is directly in front of the clubhouse. To the left of the car park, separating the football pitch from the rest of the complex, is the football changing room block. Opposite there is a covered spectator stand with a corrugated iron roof. The dugouts are situated either side of the main stand. The pitch slopes slightly from left to right as you look from the clubhouse side.

​The Background
Milton pushed Woodley all the way in Division One North last season and despite losing both Charlotte Comley and Georgia Winger (20 goals between them last term), started the new season in glorious form by thrashing Caversham United 7-3 at Mapeldurham.
Bradwell gained promotion from the Thames Valley League last season, finishing third in a tightly congested Division 1 table. This earned them a place in Division 1 South of the East Midlands Regional League where they lost their opening league game 4-0 at Kettering Town.
Milton played in last season's A Cup, beating Slough Town 8-0 in the 1st Qualifying Round before going out 3-1 at home to Ascot United in the following round. As far as I am aware this is Bradwell's first venture into the FA Cup (happy to correct this if I am wrong).

​Ten minutes before kick-off the recent warm weather finally broke and a storm rolled in across the ground bringing thunder, lightning, lashing rain and gusty wind. Just the sprint across the pitch to the cover of the stand was enough to get completely soaked through. Luckily, despite the rain, it was still warm enough to begin the drying off process.
Just before kick-off I also spotted a couple of familiar faces in the crowd. Dale James, photographer with Sports Shots, made a last minute dash from the cover of his car. We had a little catch-up midway through the first half. Always good to chew the football cud with Dale. Look out for a link to his photos in the weekly round-up blog. I also noticed Jason Thorne, an adversary from my coaching days, who's daughter plays in midfield for Milton. Jason also coaches the Oxford City girl's who play in my daughter's age group.

​The Game
Although the rain was still coming down in buckets, the lightning seemed to have moved further afield and the gusts of wind had dropped by the time the two teams emerged from the cover of the changing rooms, New Bradwell in their all maroon kit and Milton in their change kit of all pale grey.
It was the home side who settled first, almost immediately looking sharper, quicker to the ball and a yard faster than their opponents. Their ability to get in behind the Milton defence was demonstrated with their first attempt on target when a nicely improvised backheel from Cara Brooker was comfortably stopped by Milton goalkeeper Grace Beardsley. Just past the quarter hour mark Lillia Stokes shot well over Beardsley's bar but, lack of shots on target aside, the home side were by this time well on top.
It was close to 20 minutes before Milton finally showed some intent at the opposite end of the pitch. They broke quickly but were thwarted when Shayla Burgess was swift off her line to bravely smother the through ball at a striker's feet. Straight back down the other end, Beardsley demonstrated her agility and bravery as she went full length to palm a Courtney Crawley strike around the post. A good save made better by the fact that she could easily have collided with the post in the process.
Just over halfway through the first half, the tide of Bradwell pressure finally broke the Milton defensive barrier. Once again Cara Brooker was found inside the Milton penalty area. Her quick feet created space for a shot which Beardsley did well to block but could not hold. Brooker was quickest to react, lashing the ball back into the net from close range. 1-0
The remainder of the first half continued pretty much in the same vain. Saints still commanded the vast percentage of possession whilst Milton struggled to find any kind of rhythm. Credit for this has to go to the home midfield who took control early on and succeeded in completely preventing Milton from playing. Shayla Burgess was, for much of the half, a remote viewer of the action. Grace Beardsley, meanwhile, had a much busier afternoon and was called upon again just before the half-time whistle, keeping her side in contention with another good save.

HT New Bradwell St Peter 1 Milton United 0. Impressive half from Saints especially as, I was reliably informed, they had a couple, of first team players missing. Even so, they managed to negate the attacking power of Milton, whilst posing plenty of threats themselves.

​Having seen first had what Milton can do when on form, I fully expected the m to come out flying in the second period. However, it was the home side who threatened first. Emily Hale striking the first effort of the half and then, in the 48th minute. Stokes won possession in  midfield and drove down the left flank before smashing her shot into the side-netting. Milton responded with an attempt of their own when Mollie Dyer put a snapshot just wide of the hem goal.
Courtney Crawley them struck a 25 yard fee-kick over Beardsley's bar before, just past the hour mark, Milton manufactured their best chance of the game so far. It was a route one attempt, a straight ball through the middle for Faith Kingdon to run onto. Under pressure, she got a shot off but it was straight into the body of Burgess. Much better from Milton though who, at this point, looked to be steadily playing their way into the game.
Maybe aware of this, Bradwell turned up the heat a little more as we approached the last 20 minutes. Then, with 19 minutes remaining, they conjured up a lovely second goal. It was finished by Emily Hale, sliding the ball under Beardsley. However, the credit has to go to the vision and perfect weight of the through ball from Leanne Burns. Excellent vision and technique made it relatively easy for the striker. 2-0.
Milton weren't giving up the game but, in all honesty, I couldn't see a way back for them at this point and they were almost dead and buried on 79 minutes when Brooker slotted past Beardsley only to see the assistant's flag raised. Milton tried to respond and, as we entered the final 10 minutes, Mollie Dyer smashed a free-kick goalward which Burgess reacted to brilliantly, pushing the goal bound effort away to safety.
In added time Saints applied the icing to their FA Cup cake when the excellent Courtney Crawley cut in from the right before flicking a left-foot effort inside Beardsley's near post much to the annoyance of the keeper. 3-0

FT New Bradwell St Peter 3 Milton United 0. Credit to Bradwell who bossed this game for the vast majority of the 90 minutes. Well organised at the back, dominant in midfield and threatening up front. They never gave Milton the opportunity to get going. The only downside was the injury to Courtney Crawley towards the end of added time. The winger had, in my opinion, looked the most dangerous player on the pitch for Bradwell. I hope the injury is not too bad after she was helped off the pitch a few minutes from the end.
Both teams are back in league action next weekend. New Bradwell make the trip North to face Nuneaton Borough, who also lost their opening game, 2-0 at home to Newport Pagnell Town. Meanwhile, Milton are on the road as well, travelling down to Fox Lane to face Eversley & California who are yet to take a point after two league games. Last season's encounter was decided by a single April England strike as United returned home with the points.

New Bradwell St Peter: 1. Burgess, 7. Hale, 2. Downhill, 3.Evans, 5.S.Jones, 15.Townsend, 4.Miller, 19.Burns, 12.Crawley, 8.Stokes, 6.Brooker. Subs: 10.C.Jones, 16.R.Alderson, 19.L.Alderson, 14.Nevill, 11.Smart, 17.Young, 9.Miller
Milton United: 1.Beardsley, 15.Taylor, 18.Hughes, 9.Miller(c), 7.Barnes, 6.Loveridge, 20.Slann, 2.Thorne, 17.Dyer, 8.England, 10. Kingdon. Subs: 14.Welch, 12.Ranxha, 11.Morton, 16.Simons

Ground Number: Re-visit
Att: 80
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

​Having not managed to get to a midweek game so far this week, I was scouring Football Traveller for a Thursday option when I came across a Coventry Alliance fixture being played at a ground with a CV post code that I had not yet visited. There can't be many of these left, so it was too good a chance to miss. The game in question was a Bermuda Cup tie between Polonia Coventry and Triumph Athletic, both currently playing in the second tier of The Coventry Alliance.
I'd never seen Polonia play before. However, this would be the fourth time I had watched Triumph. They were beaten on all three previous occasions, something I didn't mention to their coach when chatting to him before the game. He would have been justified in asking the 'Jonah' to leave the ground. Many thanks to him and the Polonia coach for sharing the team sheets with me.
My previous times watching Triumph came in the 2019 Coventry Telegraph Cup Final at The Ricoh Arena. Athletic went down 3-2 to Coventry Copsewood (Copse No Robbers). I also saw them in a pre-season friendly at Bishops Itchington where the lost 5-2 (Big Skies). Finally, in April 2022, I saw them a Stan Oulds cup game 6-0 at home to a rampant Dunlop side (Dunlop Triumph).

​The Ground
Polonia Coventry play at The Massey Ferguson Sports Ground on the very Western edge of the city of Coventry. It's a multi-sport facility provided by the American agricultural machinery manufacturer. It is also the home of the junior section of Coventry United FC. 
There's a reasonable large amount of parking spaces behind the changing rooms/cricket pavilion. The main pitch slopes slightly from the car park end towards the Woodlands View Park. There is no spectator cover or dugouts around the ground.
The complex consists of two full size football pitches, one with floodlights, multiple small-sided pitches and a cricket square, wedged between the two main pitches. Whilst waiting for kick-off I had the pleasure to chew the cud with the club's groundsman who was telling me about the amount of time and effort involved in the upkeep of such a facility. I have to say, looking at the pitch that this evening's game was played on, he is doing a superb job. The pitch was in excellent condition.

The Background
This was a Bermuda Cup First Round tie. I must admit to knowing very little about this competition as ide from the fact that the current holders are Stockingford AA Pavilion, who beat Folly Lane BCOB 3-1 in last season's final. Along the way, Folly Lane had also knocked out Polonia by 3-2. Triumph had lost at the same stage, going down 2-1 to Fillongley.
This was to be Triumph's first match of the season. Consequently, there was no way of knowing what kind of form they may be in. Polonia had, however, already played one league game in which they went down 5-1 at home to Whitnash Town. A little pointer to possible outcomes could be taken from last term's league meetings between the teams, when they ended the season as the bottom two. Triumph held sway, drawing 1-1 at home and beating Polonia 2-0 on their own patch.
​

​The Game
It was still close to 30 degrees when Triumph, kicking down the slope in their blue and amber change kit (which reminded me of Shrewsbury Town a few season's back), were the first to show in this game. Seven minutes in they went close when Dan Stanton drove down the right before delivering a low cross towards the front post. It was scrambled out for a corner with strikers looking to pounce. Athletic continued on the front foot. Kyle Gorman should possibly have done better when put through after 13 minutes, but credit to Harry Cross who did well to save. However, the keeper was not quite as quick off his line after 16 minutes when a through ball once again split his defence open. This time his timing was slightly out, getting more of the player than the ball. Luckily for Cross, the ball was running away from the goal and he avoided a red card. He did not avoid conceding a penalty. Aaron Francis converted from the spot sending Cross the wrong way. 0-1.
Five minutes later, with the visitors now pressing for more, they had another penalty shout and, from my angle at least, it looked clearer than the first one. However, the referee was unmoved and we went into a drinks break with the score stil at 0-1. Almost immediately after the break, Triumph came close to catching out the home defence again. A quickly taken free-kick put Gorman in behind the back-line once more but this time Walker did just enough to put the striker off. It looked like just a matter of time until Athletic extended their lead but, instead, they were caught by a sucker punch on 34 minutes. The visitors conceded possession in midfield and the ball was quickly fed to Polonia captain Radoslaw Kiper, who had drifted into a hole left by the left-back. Kiper drove into the edge of the box and then fired low past Khane Barlow and in off the far post. 1-1

Wydawało się, że to tylko kwestia czasu, zanim Athletic powiększy prowadzenie, ale zamiast tego w 34. minucie został złapany przez frajerski cios. Goście stracili posiadanie w środku pola, a piłka szybko trafiła do kapitana Polonii Radosława Kipera, który wpadł do dołka pozostawionego przez lewego obrońcę. Kiper wjechał w krawędź pola karnego, a następnie strzelił nisko obok Khane'a Barlowa i trafił w dalszy słupek. 1-1

Triumph shook off the disappointment of conceding and went in search of another goal themselves. With five minutes to go until the break Gorman got in behind the defence again, but this time fired well over. Then, on 43 minutes, Triumph broke down a Polonia foray insode their own half and launched a very quick break down their right side. The ball was squared to Aaron Francis who took a touch to wrong-foot his marker before shooting in off Cross's right-hand post. 1-2

HT Polonia Coventry 1 Triumph Athletic 2. Triumph well worthy of their lead and should really be further ahead. Polonia have the slope in their favour for the second period. Could it be a factor in this heat?

​After kicking off a little later than expected, the sides ensured their was a quick turnaround at half-time, mindful that it starts to get dark around 8pm these days. 
Once again it was Triumph who took the early initiative. Four minutes in, Arron Francis was given a free run at goal, looking odds on to claim his hat-trick. However, the striker blazed his effort well over and the home side were temporarily reprieved. As it happened,, the relief lasted less than five minutes before Triumph did go further ahead. This time it was a corner from the left that did the damage. Some clever movement from defender James Bryson left him with an unchallenged header, which he duly placed beyond Cross. 1-3
The game was rapidly slipping away from Polonia and their plight was not helped on 57 minutes when a rush of blood to defender Bogdan State's head, ended with them reduced to 10 players. The centre-half lunged in on Francis on the edge of the box. My first instinct was that it was a red card. The tackle was out of control and wild. However, the referee took stock of the situation, and conferred with the assistant (Polonia's substitute) before sending off State. The correct decision based on the tackle but, if he did it on the grounds that it prevented a clear goal-scoring opportunity, in my opinion, the dismissal was for the wrong reason. From my position, Francis looked to still have a lot to do before getting a shot away. Having said that, I'm not a referee, and I would never want to do what is a very difficult job.
Two goals adrift and a man light, it would not have been a surprise if Polonia had folded at this point. However, a change in formation with Ivan Tsipan dropping into central defence, seemed to stabilise them somewhat. Triumph still had more of the ball and, just past the hour mark generated a big chance for Kyle Gorman who beat the keeper but then, trying to avoid a defender on the line, put his shot wide of the post. With twenty minutes left, Ross Irwin was the next Triumph layer to break the defensive line but, under pressure from a covering defender, he too put his shot wide of the mark.
That attempt was followed closely by a rare Polonia attack that saw Alex Kiselovs fire off a decent shot which whistled wide of Barlow's post.
Despite looking more organised, Polonia couldn't hold out forever against the extra player. On 74 minutes a cross from the right was smashed home by Dan Stanton, making it 1-4. Then ten minutes later, Ross Irwin's cross from the right was perfect for Aaron Francis to run onto. His first touch, trying to control the dropping pass, was slightly off but it didn't matter as it took still diverted the ball past Cross into the net. 1-5 and, finally,  the hat-trick for Francis.

FT Polonia Coventry 1 Triumph Athletic 5. Overall a comfortable progression for Triumph who always looked as if they just had too much for Polonia. Maybe now I may even be welcomed to a Triumph match in the future now that the monkey is off my back. Polonia showed plenty of fight and, to be fair to them, played well enough after they went down to 10 men. They also have, by far (in my opinion), the best kit you'll see at this level of the game. Not just their playing kit but the training kit I saw some players wearing when they arrived. Great detail. I especially liked Polonia FC written vertically down the back of the training tops.
Both sides are back in action this weekend. Polonia travel to AFC Coventry at Cauldon Castle Sports Centre. AFC also lost their first league game, 6-3 at Fillongley. Triumph are also on the road as they visit Folly Lane BCOB Reserves, another team who lost their opener to Fillongley, 4-2.

Polonia Coventry: Cross, Drabik, Kiper(c), Kiselovs, Malko, Alecu, Ziolkowski, State, Manea, Tsipan, Metcharo. Subs: Salatioan, Karaluns, Clenciu
Triumph Athletic: Barlow, E.Haymes, Govier, Bryson, Hume, Lamb, c.Haymes(c), Irwin, Stanton, Francis, Gorman. Subs: R.Atkins, T.Atkins, Hartnett


Ground Number: 377
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

​The first week of the new season brought goals galore across the leagues, especially in Division One North where the five games produced 39 in total.
In the Premier League newbies Badshot Lea got off to a winning start whilst Ascot looked to continue where they left off last season with a good home win over Wycombe. In the South Stoneham did likewise, crushing Rushmoor 9-0 to get their season off to good start. There were plenty of familiar names on the scoresheet in the North. This week also sees the start of the FA Cup for teams in Division One.

Abingdon Utd Dev. 5-2 Wycombe Wanderers U23
After a tight first period where a Ruby Herring goal for United had cancelled out Wycombe's 3rd minute opener, saw the side go in level. However, a second half hat-trick from Mimi Hodges and an Ellie Owen goal, gave Abingdon a 5-2 win. For some great photos and video clips of the action, take a look at Abingdon's Twitter feed (yes, I still call it Twitter)  @AbingdonUTDWDev

Beaconsfield 2-8 Penn & Tylers Green
Penn & Tylers Green laid down an early marker scoring eight times even without last season's second top-scorer Sasha Smith, departed for Chesham United in the National League. Rebecca Stopforth grabbed a hat-trick, Henna Hussain notched twice and Ellie Ludgate-Williams, Evie Matthews and Rachael Harnby each scored. Lucy Casey was on the scoresheet twice for newly promoted Beaconsfield.

Caversham United 3-7 Milton United
Two goals from Rosie Page-Smith and a debut strike from Lilly Hall were not enough for the Goats as braces from Mollie Dyer and April England along with strikes from Holly Porter, Abbie Thorne and Kira Ranxha secured a resounding 7-3 win for Milton.

Chesham United Res. 3-5 Long Crendon
Michelle Bailey and Eleanor Lovelock both scored twice as Long Crendon struck five in total to take all three points at Chesham. Crendon took a three goal lead before Chloe Timms and Oana Filip got it back to 3-2. Crendon then scored twice more before a late Sophie Mabbs strike ended the scoring.
Click on the link for some excellent photos of the game  from Wings Media.

Kidlington 3-1 Eversley & California
Last season's top scorer, Courtney Sumner, was back in the saddle early on for Kidlington. Further foals from Keira Isaac and Cloe Woodward secured a 3-1 victory for the Greens.
Check out some great photos from Steve Surman Photography (@stevens7200)
​

Division One North

Ascot United Reserves v Abingdon Utd Development
The development sides are the two teams who battled out the Premier League title last season. Abingdon got off to a great start last weekend when they saw off a young Wycombe Wanderers U23 team by 5-2 thanks largely to a Mimi Hodges second half hat-trick. In a league with an odd number of teams, Ascot were the team to get a rest week last Sunday.
Racecourse Ground, Winkfield Road, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Beaconsfield v Wycombe Wanderers U23
Two sides who began the season with defeat will be looking to kickstart their campaigns this Sunday. Both were Thames Valley teams last season, finishing third and second respectively. Wanderers held sway in the head to heads, completing the double with a 2-0 home win and crushing 7-2 victory back at Beaconsfield.
Holloways Park, Windsor Road, Beaconsfield HP9 2SE

Kidlington v Chesham Utd Dev
The Greens got off to a great start last weekend, beating Eversley & California 3-1, with last season's top scorer Courtney Sumner getting off the mark early. Chesham, who came up from the Thames Valley Division 3, found out that life in this league can be difficult, going down 5-3 at home to Long Crendon. The good news is that they managed three goals and spread them across the team, showing that they are a threat.
Exeter Park, Crown Road, Kidlington OX5 1AB

Long Crendon v Eversley & California
Crendon made a good start with doubles from Michelle Bailey and Eleanor Lovelock helping them to a 5-3 win at Chesham. Eversley fell to defeat at Kidlington but will be buoyed by the knowledge of a 3-3 draw in this fixture last season.
Long Crendon Recreation Ground, 9 Chearsley Road, Long Crendon HP18 9BS

Women's FA Cup

Caversham United v Camden & Islington United
A welcome distraction for the Goats after going down to Milton United in the opening league game. Caversham have been known to love a cup run, so this tie against the side currently bottom of London & South East Division One North, could be the kickstart they require. Their opponents are yet to score in two games, conceding four at Hackney and six at Denham United last weekend.
Mapledurham Recreation Ground, Upper Woodcote Road, Mapledurham, Reading RG4 7LD

New Bradwell St Peter v Milton Utd
Newly promoted New Bradwell St Peter lost their first East Midlands Region Division 1 South game 4-0 at Kettering Town. It's a tough cup draw for them, up against a buoyant Milton United side who hit the ground running at the weekend with a resounding 7-3 win at Caversham United.
New Bradwell Recreation Ground, Bradwell Road, Milton Keynes, MK13 7AD

Watford Dev. v Penn & Tylers Green (16:30 kick off)
Both of these sides had great starts to their respective league campaigns. Whilst Penn were winning 8-2 at Beaconsfield aided by a Rebecca Stopforth hat-trick, Watford's Dev. team were thrashing Maidenhead United Dev. 5-1 with great help from an Isabella Sturmey three goal haul. These sides met in last season's competition at the same stage with Penn coming out 1-0 winners thanks to a Henna Hussain strike in the 80th minute.
Hempstead Road, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, WD4 8BS
​

Division One South

Eastleigh Reserves v AFC Stoneham
One of the most local of local derbies (if you go by club location). The respective grounds are not only on the same road, but are only a matter of a few hundred yards apart, although separated by the M27. Having said that, Eastleigh's reserve side don't play at the main stadium. In stead they are based 8 miles away in Southampton.
Eastleigh kept a clean sheet in their opening goalless draw at Fleet but will be put to the
Oasis Academy Mayfield, Ashley Crescent, Southampton SO19 9NA

Rushmoor v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Unfortunate Rushmoor drew the short straw on the opening day, feeling the full force of a rampant Stoneham side who rattled in nine goals. Two seasons ago, these two were in the same Hampshire County Division. Rushmoor did the double that season, on their way to promotion, winning 1-0 at home through a Gemma Bennett strike, and clocking up a 3-2 victory in Dorset.
Southwood Pavilion, Grasmere Road, Farnborough GU14 0LE

Women's FA Cup

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v AFC Portchester
Newly formed Harlequins, who ply their trade in the Wiltshire Ladies premier League, got off to a great league start when they beat another new side, Bath Athena, by six goals to nil. Striker Imogen Brady stepped up with a hat-trick. Portchester also had a successful debut game, winning their Southern Region opener with Woking by 3-1.
Western Way, Salisbury, SP2 9DR

Fleet Town v Shanklin
Fleet's opening league game saw them draw 0-0 with Eastleigh Reserves. Hampshire County Division 1 side Shanklin lost their opening league encounter 2-0 at QK Southampton. These sides shared a division last season with Shanklin finishing two places and 19 points ahead of Fleet. The Isle of Wight team also held sway in the head to heads, winning both by a goal to nil.
Crookham Road, Fleet, GU51 5FA

Richmond & Kew v Abbey Rangers
Both of these teams lost their opening league games. Abbey went down 4-2 at Selsey Development whilst, in the Greater London Premier Division, Richmond & Kew were beaten 2-0 at Leyton Orient. As far as I can see, this is Richmond & Kew's debut in the FA Cup. Abbey went out on penalties to Steyning Town at this stage last season.
Ham Fields, Richmond, Greater London Authority, TW10 7RX

Shaftesbury v Havant & Waterlooville
Shaftesbury, of the South West Regional Eastern Division, have not yet played a league game after their opening match with Frome Town was postponed. Meanwhile, Havant & Waterlooville opened up with a good 3-0 win at Bournemouth Sports Reserves.
Venue: Shaftesbury Ladies

Woking v Leatherhead
South East Counties Surrey Premier side Leatherhead make the short journey over to Woking. IN their opening league game, Leatherhead scored twice in each half to see off Epsom & Ewell. Meanwhile, Woking were going down 3-1 at AFC Portchester. Woking went out of the FA Cup at home to Dartford last season in the round after this one.
Eastwood Leisure Centre, Albert Drive, Sheerwater, Woking GU22 5RF