The top team in every division won at the weekend. Wycombe lead their table by eight points, Denham by fourteen, and Farnham by six. However, none are yet guaranteed the title as we come into the final straight. Things are also tight at the bottom in the Premier and the North. Woodley and Badshot Lea are locked together at the bottom of the Premier League with Woodley having a slightly better goal difference and a game in hand. In the North Kidlington are three points adrift of Ascot, but have two games in hand. In the South, Shaftesbury are unfortunately all but certain to remain bottom.

​Badshot Lea 0-7 Reading
Reading scored seven in under 30 second half minutes after this game was goalless at the break. Five minutes after the restart Tyra Wilson opened the scoring. Three minutes later Kezia Banduka made it two. Nat Cowell got the third after 68 minutes before Ava Broke-Smith, Bella Rowden and two from Tia Johnson, all within 6 minutes, rounded off the scoring.

Beaconsfield Town 1-1 AFC Portchester
Portchester took the lead in this game in the 72nd minute, through Kim Fuller. They were seconds away from claiming all three points when a brave header from Henna Hussain looped in the snatch a point for The Rams. Listen to Rams manager Brian Harris's post-match comments.

Southampton 2-3 Winchester City Flyers
Saffi Rae topped a PotM performance with a first goal for Flyers after 44 minutes. However, Eliska Lynn levelled for The Sirens before the half-time whistle. Emily Wernham then put the visitors back in front just after the restart, only for Liv Glover to equalise again. Charlie Snelling popped up with the winner for City in the 74th minute.

Woodley United 0-5 Wycombe Wanderers
Wanderers returned to winning ways in the league, scoring five without reply, even without the services of top scorer Kayla Potter. Jess Watkins closed the gap on Potter, making it 24 for the season with a brace. Chloe Melton grabbed her 22nd of the season with Emma Kern and Anisha Hill adding the other two goals. Watch the goals courtesy of Wycombe's X feed - 0 and take a look at the match photos from Andy Wicks.

​Larkspur Rovers 0-1 Penn & Tylers Green
Penn left it late, but an Annalise Scott-Green goal took the points lifting Penn above Rovers into second spot on goal difference.

Tilehurst Panthers 1-6 Denham United
Denham are now just five league games away from completing a perfect season after victory number 15 at Scours Lane. Annie Hewitt and Niamh Cashin both grabbed braces with Jem Potter and Sofia Harris adding the other two goals. Eve Rhind hit a late consolation for Panthers. Read the Denham match report on Instagram.

​AFC Varsity 1-3 Andover New Street
Brooke Suddaby scored her first New Street goal since the move from Wimborne Town. Freya Twigg added her 14th of a very productive season and Zoe Ridley made it six goals in nine games, as New Street returned to winning ways after three straight draws. Varsity remain third from bottom, but are mathematically safe from the drop zone.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 2-3 Guernsey
After a goalless first half Harlequins took the lead just past the hour mark through Imogen Brady. However, Ruby Smith equalised four minutes later, and Donna Gallienne put the Green Lionesses in front on 73 minutes. Brady thought she had snatched a point for Quins with a 90th minute leveller, only for Ruby Smith to grab a dramatic winner four minutes into added time.
Watch the whole game on Guernsey YouTube 

Farnham Town 3-1 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Liberty Dieppe scored twice, her first goals since the dual registration signing from Maidenhead United, Iesha Swaby made it 27 for the season, and Francesca Thornton took over in goal, as Farnham continued their 100% record. That's now 12 from 12 and a six point lead with four games in hand. Emma Whall hit her second of the season just past the hour, but it was only a consolation for Sports. Watch the goals on the Farnham X feed.

Shaftesbury 0-5 Havant & Waterlooville
The Hawks pushed themselves into second spot with a five-star performance at Coppice Lane. Emma-Jane May led the way with a hat-trick. Evie Griffiths and Isobel Humphrey added the other two goals.

Wimborne Town 0-0 AFC Stoneham
The Purps dropped league points for the first time in March, conceding second place to Havant in the process. This was Wimborne's third straight draw and second 0-0 in three games. Stoneham now have four away games to finish the season, including a trip to Westleigh Park. Safe in midtable, The Magpies have a Dorset County Cup Final date with Sherborne to look forward to at the end of the month.

​AFC Portchester v Southampton
Despite dropping points to Beaconsfield's late equaliser last weekend, Portchester still have their title hopes in their own hands. Win every remaining game and win the league. Of course, it's not that simple. First step is to try to overcome a Southampton side who they have already drawn 2-2 with in the reverse fixture. The Sirens have drawn four of their last five games, but went down 3-2 to Winchester City last Sunday.
Wicor Recreation Ground, PO16 9DP

Badshot Lea v Wycombe Wanderers
After their League Cup Final victory, Wanderers also returned to winning ways in the league last weekend. Their 5-0 win at Woodley, even without top scorer Kayla Potter, saw them maintain their 8 point lead. However, both Winchester and Portchester could overtake them, in theory, with their games in hand. The Baggies are still rooted to the bottom, but are only there on goal difference. They need to stay in contention to set up a big final day with second bottom Woodley United.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Fleet Town v Reading
Two teams safely positioned in mid-table. Reading are two places and ten points above Fleet, also with a game in hand. Reading can still make inroads into the top three, especially with four of their last six being at home. They could also have a big say in the title, with two games against Portchester still to come.
Crookham Road, GU51 5FA

Oxford City v Winchester City Flyers
Flyers beat City 3-0 in the reverse fixture earlier this month. After winning their last three in the league, Winchester are still in  a position to challenge Wycombe at the top. All they can do is try to win every game. City are safe from the drop, but will be looking to finish the season as high as they can. Of course, they've also got a county cup final and Chairman's Cup semi-final to look forward to.
Marsh Lane, OX3 0NQ

Woodley United v Sholing
Still just above the drop zone on goal difference, Woodley will want to avenge their 5-1 defeat in the reverse fixture on the opening day. Sholing are not completely safe themselves, having an 8-point advantage as it stands, but having played one more than Woodley. Defeat on Sunday would drag them back into danger.
​UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, ​RG5 3HE

​Abingdon United Development v Tilehurst Panthers
Neither team has too much to play for, although Abingdon could still book themselves a top three finish, even if the title is out of reach. The reverse fixture was played on the opening day with Abingdon returning from Scours Lane with the points after a 7-0 victory.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Ascot United Reserves v Farnborough
Farnborough, with eight still to play, could still affect the top three come the end of the season. Ascot remain just three points above the drop zone, but have played two more than Kidlington, who are yet to visit The Racecourse. Farnborough won the reverse fixture 2-1 thanks to a very late Ellie Stalley winner.
The Racecourse Ground, SL5 7LJ

Kidlington Youth v Larkspur Rovers
The reverse fixture to the opening day. Larkspur won that one 4-1, an early signal to how the season was going to go for both sides. Rovers, who lost second spot last Sunday, have had a very successful season, leading the chasing pack for much of it. Kidlington, conversely, have struggled and remain bottom, three points adrift of Ascot, with two games in hand.
​Yarnton Road, OX5 1AT

​Bournemouth Sports Reserves v AFC Stoneham
Stoneham's 0-0 draw at Wimborne last weekend saw then lose second spot to Havant.  With The Hawks not in action, the Purps have the opportunity to go back above them with any kind of result at Chapel Gate. Sports could also climb the tightly congested mid-table should they reverse the 2-1 defeat suffered a Stoneham Lane on the opening Day.
Chapel Gate, BH23 6BL

Bursledon v Shaftesbury
The bottom two go head to head. However, The Dons are 12 points above the dotted line and have two in hand on Shaftesbury. This is the first meeting in the league this season. However, Shaftesbury will want to put aside their heavy Chairman's Cup defeat at the hands of The Dons back in February, in which Issy Pouncy hit a double hat-trick and Rosina Folkes scored four.
Priory Park, SO32 1SQ

Farnham Town v Andover New Street
Last weekend's victory made it twelve games without a blemish for Farnham. New Street climbed to fourth with their win at AFC Varsity, and will have their sights set on a top three finish. The teams are yet to meet this season, with Andover due to host Farnham on the last day.
Memorial Ground, GU9 7DY


Wimborne Town v Guernsey
The islanders have won two on the bounce now and have climbed back up to sixth after suffering a bad run over the winter. Wimborne sit one place and one point above them, but have played a game more. On the opening day The Magpies were the first to visit Guernsey, losing 7-5 in an extraordinary start to the season. Calleigh Hedley scored six that day and is still Guernsey's top scorer despite not playing since November.
​Wyatt Homes Stadium, BH21 2FU

On Thursday evening, BotP was at Whitchurch United to watch Winchester City Flyers pick up the first trophy of the season as they claimed back to back NHDFA Cups with a 4-2 defeat of Farnborough. The Division One North side, however, did themselves proud, especially in the second half.
In the South, Farnham continued their 100% record with a 5-0 win over AFC Varsity. The League Cup finalists were decided as Wycombe beat Winchester and Portchester edged out Reading (Final. Finally)

Winchester City Flyers 4-2 Farnborough
A Chelsie Hay hat-trick put a dominant Winchester side three up before the half-hour was up. However, Farnborough stuck with it and managed to pull a goal back just before the break through Eliza Andrews. The Division One North side took advantage of playing down the slope in the second half and, despite conceding a fourth through Charlie Snelling's strike, gave Flyers plenty to worry about. Poppy Hawken got another back for Farnborough but that turned out to be a consolation. Read about the game in the BotP match blog (Back To Back Winners).

​Beaconsfield Town 4-3 Fleet Town
Fleet rocked The Rams by taking an early lead through Lily Martin, but then found themselves 4-1 down by half-time. Rebecca Tinnelly hit a brace, her first goals for the club with Katie Riddington also scoring twice. Fleet fought back with Lily Martin, again, and Layla Drury hitting the target, but couldn't find a way to level the game up. Watch the goals courtesy of Beaconsfield's YouTube channel.

​Abingdon United Development 2-1 Oxford City Development
Goals from Beth Hawtin and Sasha Scott were enough to earn all three points for Abingdon, wo moved to within two points of second placed Larkspur Rovers. A consolation from Francesca Raymond-Barker did nothing to ease City's concerns as they remain third from bottom, having played more games than the teams below them.

Ascot United Reserves P-P Penn & Tylers Green

Farnborough 1-1 Larkspur Rovers
Rovers retained second spot after sharing the spoils with Farnborough. Savana Fearon scored her 20th goal of the season for Larkspur. Ana Pitts capped a POTM performance with a long-range effort for Borough.

Tilehurst Panthers 3-1 Kidlington Youth
Leah Why made it 17 goals for the season by scoring twice in the final 5 minutes of the first half. Eve Rhind added a third for Panthers just past the hour. The three points should be enough to make Panthers safe for another season, whilst Kidlington remain three points adrift at the bottom despite Julia Rushmere's goal, although they do have two games in hand on Ascot.

​Andover New Street 1-1 Wimborne Town
A mid-table contest between two well-matched sides separated by just a point. The closeness was reflected in the score, as both had to make do with a hard-earned point. Olivia Payne struck for New Street whilst Grace Batsford was on the mark for The Magpies.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 0-0 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
These two shared the points for the second time this season. Neither could manage to break the deadlock as defences came out on top. The teams are also locked together on points, safe in md-table.

Farnham Town 5-0 AFC Varsity
It's now eleven wins from eleven in the league for Farnham. Rachael Manley scored twice, making it double-figures for the season. Further goals came from Rebecca Price, Iesha Swaby and Francesca Thornton. Varsity, who are as good as safe, now have three consecutive home games to look forward to. Watch the highlights on the Farnham X Feed.

Guernsey 2-1 Havant & Waterlooville
In their last home game, The Green Lionesses won for the first time in three and guaranteed their place in the league next season. Candice Bougourd and Heidi Dawber were the Guernsey scorers.  Phoebe Fitzgerald scored a first of the season for The Hawks.

Shaftesbury 1-3 AFC Stoneham
A thin on the ground Stoneham squad, hit by injuries, climbed to second in the table with a hard-earned win at Shaftesbury. Goals from Abbie Awdas and Scarlet Darnton, aided by an OG, was enough for the Purps. Chelsie Johnson's 75th minute goal was a consolation for Shaftesbury who continue to scrap away in every game despite their predicament at the bottom.

​Reading 0-1 AFC Portchester
An early goal from Sarah Butterworth proved to be enough to send Portchester through to the final, where they will face Wycombe Wanderers. The visitors certainly held sway in the first half, with goalkeeper Shannon Betteridge hardly troubled. However, Reading threw everything at Portchy in the second half and will be disappointed not to have scored themselves. Read the match report from The Tilehurst End and check out the BotP match blog (Final. Finally).

Winchester City Flyers 2-3 Wycombe Wanderers
Goals from Laura Hennessey, Chloe Melton and a first of the season for Bobby Lynch, had Wanderers three up. Flyers responded with two late Chelsie Hay goals (that's now 15 in the last four matches), but it was too late for them to complete the comeback. Listen to Winchester manager Emma Pearmine's post-match thoughts, view Andy Wick's match photos, and take a look at Gary Marsh's match action photos. Wanderers will face AFC Portchester in the final at Reading City on April 26th.

​Badshot Lea 0-1 Sholing
The Boatwomen edged through this quarter-final tie with a Kezia Holmes goal after only two minutes. They'll now face Oxford City at home in the semi-final on April 12th.

Bursledon 4-9 Denham United
Denham booked a semi-final date with Bournemouth Sports Reserves in an extraordinary game at Priory Park. The visitors cruised to a 3-0 lead through Niamh Cashin, Lauren Cox and Annie Hewitt, before being pegged back to 3-2 by half-time. However, United showed their form again in the second half. Another Cashin goal and a second-half hat-trick for Annie Hewitt, taking her total to four for the game, plus strikes from Daisy Baranowski and Alketa Rragami, sent them through.

Woodley United 1-3 Oxford City
City gained some revenge for the home league defeat to Woodley by knocking them out of the Chairman's Cup. Yasmin Edwards scored twice for the Hoops. Sumayah Zayadi was on the mark for United for the second game running. City will now travel to Sholing in the semi-final.

​Badshot Lea v Reading
The Baggies are running out of games in which to pull themselves clear of the drop zone. On Sunday they welcome a City side who beat them 7-3 earlier in the season, with hat-tricks from both Ellie White and Yasmin Edwards. The Baggies have lost all five home games so far this season. They'll be hoping to correct this statistic sooner rather than later.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Beaconsfield Town v AFC Portchester
The Rams won 2-1 at Portchester earlier in the season but will need to be at their best to repeat the feat, against a Portchy side who have not lost in the league since that game back in September. A win for the visitors would take them above their hosts and keep them in pole position of the chasing pack.
Holloways Park, HP9 2SE

Southampton v Winchester City Flyers
Both sides will be looking for three points to keep them in touch with Wycombe, as the race for the title heats up. Flyers beat Southampton 3-1 in the reverse fixture after being a goal down early on. Three goals in the final 14 minutes turned the game around.
Test Park, SO16 9QZ

Woodley United v Wycombe Wanderers
With only one win in their last four league outings, Wycombe have suffered something of a mini-blip recently. They'll want to get back to winning ways on Sunday, and will be buoyed by the knowledge of a 6-1 win in the reverse fixture. However, Woodley are battling for survival at the bottom and will not make it easy for The Chairgirls.
UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, ​RG5 3HE

​Larkspur Rovers v Penn & Tylers Green
Rovers hung on to second place despite only drawing at the weekend. They are, however, 11 points adrift of Denham, who also have a game in hand. Penn are two places and three points shy of Larkspur, but also have two games in hand. Both are probably now playing for second spot barring any late collapse from Denham. This is their first meeting of the season.
Lord Halsbury Playing Field, UB5 5FE

Tilehurst Panthers v Denham United
Panthers conceded the reverse fixture back in November. Now, safe from the threat of relegation, can they finally end Denham's 100% record, which now stretches to 14 games? United will surely be looking at completing a full season without dropping a point. Only six more to go. Can they do it?
The Rivermoor, Scours Lane, Reading, RG30 6AY

​AFC Varsity v Andover New Street
Varsity are 15 points clear of the drop zone, so as good as safe. Andover are firmly sitting in a mid-table, but could still make a dent on a top three finish with a run of results. They have yet to meet this season, with the reverse game scheduled for the end of April.
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, SO51 6EA

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v Guernsey
Two more side with no relegation worries and no chance of troubling the leaders.. Currently separated by two points, Guernsey could make that gap up, and more, with their game in hand. Harlequins won 2-1 in the Channel Islands at the start of the year, thanks to a last minute Hollie Keating strike.
Barry Jackman Sports Pavilion, RG28 7FS

Farnham Town v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Title favourites and, as yet, still boating maximum points, Farnham look to make it 12 straight wins as Bournemouth come to The Mem. The sides have not yet met this season. Sports have taken seven pints from the last nine available and have proven themselves good travellers this season, win five wins already under their belts away from Chapel Gate. Farnham, however, have conceded just four goals at home so far and will be determined to maintain their 100% record.
Memorial Ground,  GU9 7DY

Shaftesbury v Havant & Waterlooville
The Hawks are probably now only playing for second spot, barring a complete disaster for Farnham. They travel to Dorset looking to bounce back from defeat in Guernsey last weekend. Shaftesbury must be resigned to bottom place, but will want to add to their points tally in their final five games. They lost 8-0 at Westleigh Park in the reverse fixture.
Coppice Street, SP7 8PD

Wimborne Town v AFC Stoneham
Second placed Stoneham trail Farnham b just four points. However, they have played four additional games to the leaders. All they can do is try to keep winning and hope that Farnham collapse. The Magpies are currently fourth, six points behind Sunday's visitors but having played a game more. They did, however, win 3-1 at Stoneham Lane in November.
​Wyatt Homes Stadium, BH21 2FU

It feels like I spend a lot of time at Arbour Park these days, but I couldn't resist another trip this Sunday for the Southern Region League Cup semi-final clash between Reading and AFC Portchester. Interestingly, even though we are getting towards the end of the league campaign, these two had not yet met this season, so there was no head-to-head information to give a clue to the outcome. In terms of recent form, the pointers were for an away win. Portchester came into the game on the back of six straight wins and an unbeaten league run stretching back to September. Reading, however, had won three of their last four in the league, one of which came against the then unbeaten leaders, Wycombe Wanderers. Two very good teams who both like to play football. Everything pointing a close and entertaining encounter.
A shoutout to both media teams too. Both post their teams online which means that there's no need to go in search of the referee to find the teams sheets.

​A lively start from the visitors was rewarded as early as the seventh minute when their full press forced an error inside the Reading half. The ball broke into the path of Sarah Butterworth, who swept a right-foot shot past Sophie Butler. 0-1.
Reading were finding it difficult to get a foothold on the game and were grateful to their keeper in the 10th minute April Hill sent in an effort on target that goalkeeper did well to save. Shannon Betteridge, in the Portchy goal, was little more than a spectator at this point, and she would have had the ideal view of Charmaine True's inch-perfect through ball that sent Hill clear again, but this time the shot went wide of the target.
On the midway point of the half, more pressing from Portchester harried Keren Banduka into giving the ball straight to True, who could only fire straight at Butler. The visitors were well on top at this point, still pressing high up the park and constantly forcing misplaced passes from the home team.
As half-time approached, Portchester were awarded a free-kick in a fairly central position, some 35 yards out. Distance was no object to Kim Fuller, who let rip, bringing a fine save from Sophie Butler. A minute into added time, Fuller was again on target with another free-kick. This time it went straight to Butler.

HT Reading 0 AFC Portchester 1. Dominance in terms of possession from Portchester, but would they come to regret only taking a one goal lead into the break.

​Portchester began the second half where they left off in the first. Within a minute, Sophie Bell called Butler into action again, but the keeper held on well to the strike. Reading, however, did mange to stem the flow of the Portchester attacks and, as the game wore on, they spent more and more time inside the visitor's half, but still without testing Betteridge. In fact, the home side were saved from going two down on the hour when substitute Isabella Rowden produced a superb last ditch tackle to thwart Charmaine True. That tackle fired up the home side a little more and, a few minutes later, Jasmine king finally called Betteridge into action. The shot went straight at the keeper, but at least she had to make the stop.
Portchester were still a threat when they got forward. Millie Bradbury was inches away from connecting a diving header to Butterworth's tempting cross. That was on 70 minutes. One minute later, Reading generated their best opportunity so far and it came from a  route one ball that beat the Portchester defence, allowing Tia Johnson a clear strike at goal, only for Betteridge to make a good stop. Much more promising from reading and, for the first time in the game, Portchester were beginning to look a little more vulnerable. The early pressing that had given them the goal, and created a few other chances, was not so noticeable, which was allowing Reading to get forward much more. With 15 minutes left to play Rowden, who had earlier made the exceptional tackle, decided to have a go at the other end. Stepping onto a ball near halfway and drifting past a couple of challenges, before sending an absolute screamer narrowly wide of Betteridge's right-hand post.
The home team were really giving it a go in this second half, but the Portchester defence was standing firm and, when they did manage to break, they still looked dangerous. None more so than in the 83rd minute when Butler did brilliantly to parry Butterworth's initial effort and Bradbury put the rebound wide of the post. Three minutes later, Butler made another good stop after Bradbury broke clear, before bravely diving at the striker's feet to thwart the follow-up. However, Butler took a nasty knock in the incident and, after fairly lengthy treatment, was replaced in goal by Bethan Poole. Good to see and hear applause from both sets of supporters as the stricken keeper walked off.
Despite the home side having an outfield player in goal, they kept the ball away from their goal and continued to look for a late leveller, all to no avail, as Portchy held on to progress to the final.

FT Reading 0 AFC Portchester 1. A much improved second-half from Reading. However, they weren't able to find the illusive equaliser. Portchester continued to look dangerous on the break and defended solidly for the majority of the game. After losing at this stage in the previous two years. Portchester finally got over the line to set up a meeting with Wycombe Wanderers in the final, after the Chairgirls won 3-2 at Winchester in the other semi. The final will take place at Scours Lane (Reading City FC) on Sunday April 26 at 3pm.
Before that, both teams are back in league action next weekend. Reading make the trip to bottom side Badshot Lea who they beat 4-1 at home on the opening day. Portchester, meanwhile, travel to Holloways Park to take on Beaconsfield, who came from a goal down to win 2-1 at Portchester in September.
Wishing Sophie Butler a swift recovery.

Reading: 1.Butler, 3.Whitburn, 4.Kez.Banduka, 5.Thompson, 6.Poole, 9.Cowell, 11.Parker(c), 17.Tong, 18.Johnson, 20.Bolitho, 22.King. Subs: 2.Rowden, 7.Manners, 14.Ker.Banduka, 19.Wilson, 21.Hayes
AFC Portchester: 13.Betteridge, 2.Bell, 4.Smith, 5.Potvin, 6.Marshall, 7.Butterworth, 9.True, 10.Hillier(c), 11.Fuller, 12.Hill, 22Barron-Clark. Subs: Saunders, Stroem, Riley, Bradbury, Aitken


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

This Thursday BotP took the trip South to Whitchurch United's Longmeadow Stadium for the North Hants Divisional Football Association (NHDFA) Sunday Women's Cup Final. A competition that is fast becoming a bit of a go to for me. I was at the 2023/24 final when Fleet Town defeated Andover New Street, then a Hampshire County League Division Two side, 2-1 (Fleet Usher In First NHDFA Cup Win). I was also at one of this season's semi-finals as Winchester progressed to final by beating New Street on their own patch (New Street Knocked Out By Haymaker). ON the back of that win, Winchester were to take on Division One North side, Farnborough, in this evening's final, after Farnborough put out Aldershot Town in the semi.
Despite being one league apart, the teams had already met this season, in the League Cup back in November. Chelsie Hay gave Flyers an early lead that day. However, Ellie Stalley in her last game for the club, levelled the scores just past the hour. Sian Wylie scored what turned out to be the winner on 83 minutes before, a minute later, Winchester's Shayne Prasad picked up a second yellow. 
Speaking of Shayne Prasad. As I entered the stadium, the first sight I had was of a distraught looking player leaving the warm-ups after clearly feeling an injury. That caused a last minute change for Flyers, with Emily Wernham stepping into the starting XI, and the unfortunate Prasad missing out completely.
Many thanks to the match officials for giving me the opportunity to get a photo of the team sheets just prior to kick-off.

​Winchester had the slope in their favour for the first half and, after a first few minutes of sparring, began to use that to their advantage. Their first major opportunity came in the 11th minute when Emily McDonough was sent clear. However, Beth Bye was very quick off her line to make an excellent and brave block at the feet of the winger. Two minutes later, however, there was nothing that Bye could do as Charlie Snelling's through ball sent Winchester top scorer Chelsie Hay on her way. With ten goals in her last two games, the Flyers hot-shot was not going to miss the opportunity, firing the ball low past the keeper into the far corner. 1-0
City continued to press Farnborough back and, just before the midway point, Hay had the ball in the net again, but the whistle had gone for an offside flag. 
Despite their continued effort, Farnborough were finding it difficult to prevent Winchester from dominating the game. When Borough got the ball, they were unable to keep it for long, as City closed them down and forced stary passes at every opportunity. Eventually, the pressure from Winchester told again. After a delay for an injury to a Farnborough player, Emma Whitlock swung in a corner from the left. It dropped into a bunch of players, but first to react was Chelsie Hay, who tapped the ball home from two yards out. 2-0. I initially thought this was an own goal. However, it was credited to Hay and, if you watch the video captured by The Terrace Traveller (@TerraceTrav) you'll see that it was definitely a clever little flick from Hay that put the ball away. 
Farnborough had no time to recover from going two down. A minute after the restart Hay picked the ball up some 30-plus yards out on the right. Seeing Bye off her line, she sent a perfect long-range lob over the stranded keeper. 3-0. That made it thirteen goals in less than 2 and a half games for the Winchester striker.
Three up and cruising, Winchester were looking to completely kill the game off before half-time. Charlie Snelling had a golden opportunity to make it four, but put her shot over the bar. Then Laura Vokes saw her near-post corner come back off the woodwork. However, there were still signs that Farnborough were not yet beaten. With six minutes to go before the break, Laura Quinn-Low was millimetres from getting a toe to a looped cross into the Winchester box. 
At the other end, Beth Bye was down well to save from Emily Wernham's snapshot. Then, with a minute left on the clock, Farnborough did get a goal back. Quinn-Low did well on the right, sending a ball into the feet of Eliza Andrews. She turned and got off a shot which took a deflection off Sharna Capel-Watson on its way into the net. 3-1

HT Winchester City Flyers 3 Farnborough 1. A tough half for Farnborough, who had to work extremely hard just to stay in the game. However, as a neutral, it was pleasing to see them grab a goal back just before the break, and give them a lift for the second half.

​Maybe it was the late goal. Maybe it was the psychological advantage of playing down the slope. Maybe just a resolve to give it a bit of a go. Whatever the case, Farnborough seemed to have a renewed vigour when the second half got under way.
They had Winchester on the back foot early in the half. So much so that Lily Dalton, who only came on at half-time, was forced into last ditch tackle in the area, that saw her, unfortunately, leave the field with an injury only seven minutes after coming on. 
Farnborough's early efforts could have forced some teams to sit back and defend their two goal lead. However, the Premier League outfit were having none of that. Just past the hour they broke forward. The ball was slipped into Charlie Snelling just outside the box. Some very nifty footwork created an opening and she finished with a perfectly placed low effort into the bottom left-hand corner of Bye's goal. 4-1.
That took the wind out of Farnborough sails and, a few minutes later, Annie Northwood latched onto Hay's quick throw-in, but her radar was slightly off and she put the ball into the side-netting.
Both sides were making a few changes but when Farnborough brought on Poppy Hawkin, who had scored the decisive goal at Slough last Sunday, there was suddenly more noise from the Farnborough following, of which there were quite a few. Hawkin's introduction certainly added more life to Farnborough but it was Winchester who generated the next big opportunity when Hay was played in again on 75 minutes. As Bye came out the striker sent a lob over her from 20 yards this time, but her aim was slightly off and the ball went of the mark.
Five minutes later, Farnborough had another goal back when Poppy Hawkin was sent clear of the City defence before arrowing her finish past Parker. 4-2
With only ten minutes plus added time to go, the two-goal margin was still fairly comfortable for Winchester. However, aside from one more Hay strike that went wide, they found themselves being pushed back by Farnborough who, to their immense credit, had their higher-ranked opponents looking forward to the final whistle. Winchester were by no means hanging on, but I am sure they didn't find the final 5-10 minutes too comfortable.

FT Winchester City Flyers 4 Farnborough 2. Congratulations to Flyers, who retain the NHDFA Cup trophy. They were the better team over the 90 minutes, but great credit must go to Farnborough too. They were under the cosh for much of the first half, but rallied to put on a very good show in the second half. They had a very good and confident Winchester team, penned back at times.
Flyers have a very short window to enjoy their victory. On Sunday they have the not-so-small task of taking on league-leaders Wycombe Wanderers in the League Cup semi-final at The Charters Community Stadium. Meanwhile, Farnborough have a home league date with second placed Larkspur Rovers. 

Winchester City Flyers: 1.Parker, 3.Vokes, 6.Warhurst, 5.Moulding, 2.Capel-Watson, 12.Hughes, 15.Whitlock(c), 4.Snelling, 8.Hay, 10.Wernham, 20.McDonough. Subs: 9.Northwood, 17.Powell-Rowland, 19.Dalton, 16.Byway
Farnborough: 19.Bye, 2.May(c), 7.Margilewska, 8.Quinn-Low, 9.Parsons, 10.Andrews, 14.Woodger, 15.Jones, 16.Rutledge, 20.Way, 26.Hurwood. Subs: 3.Gibbs, 5.McCoy, 12.Hawkin, 17.O'Donnell, 21.Stride

Sunday was a solemn day all across the region with a minute's silence being observed around the grounds as teams and officials paid their respects to Amelia Aplin, the young Oxford United player who tragically passed away earlier this month.
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In the Premier League, Portchester's Charmaine True struck the only goal as they took all three points at Wycombe. Winchester City, who are also in pursuit of the leaders, hit twelve whilst Oxford City and Southampton battled out a draw. Denham are still perfect in the North after winning Ascot, who are still in deep in a relegation fight. Stoneham kept a little pressure on Farnham in the South

​Oxford City 2-2 Southampton
A hard-earned point for City and a fourth consecutive league draw for The Sirens. Danielle Kjaer got the visitors off to a great start, scoring the opener after 9 minutes. However, a Yasmin Edwards double on 20 and 33 minutes had the hosting Hoops in front. Eliska Lynn pulled the Sirens back level five minutes before the break, and that's the way it stayed. Read the match report on the Southampton web site.

Winchester City Flyers 12-1 Woodley United
Sumayah Zayadi put Woodley in front after only 3 minutes. However, that just woke up the Winchester machine ands, in particular striker Chelsie Hay. Top scorer Hay equalised after 18 minutes before goals from Charlie Snelling, Shayne Prasad and another Hay strike, put Flyers 4-1 up at the break. Soon after the restart Snelling hit her second and then completed her hat-trick just before the hour. On the hour Chelsie Hay completed her hat-trick and proceeded to go on the rampage, adding four more with a 9 minute spell, taking her personal tally to seven for the match. Prasad then rounded off the dozen with a minute to go. You can view both Shayne Prasad goals here and check out the match photos from the Winchester web site. You can also view all seven Chelsie Hay goals.

Wycombe Wanderers 0-1 AFC Portchester
Cat, meet pigeon. A single Charmaine True strike was enough for Portchester to inflict a first home defeat of the season on Wanderers. The victory means that both Portchester and second placed Winchester City Flyers can now catch Wycombe should they win their games in hand. Having said that, The Chairgirls still have an eight point gap at the top. True's goal, however, has certainly breathed some life back into the title race. Check out the match photos courtesy of Andy Wicks.

​Abingdon United Development 3-0 Larkspur Rovers
A first league defeat in five for Rovers, but they remain in second place. Abingdon chalked up their first league maximum since the end of November thanks to two goals from April England and another from Beth Hawtin. Larkspur can now be caught by Penn, with their game in hand. However, Pen and Rovers still have to meet twice.

Ascot United Reserves 1-6 Denham United
United went twelve points clear with this victory which also increased the relegation worries for Ascot. Both Niamh Cashin and Brogan Moore each added two more goals to their season's tally. Annie Hewitt and Jemima Potter also got onto the scoresheet. Denham are now six games away from completing the perfect league campaign.

Oxford City Development A-A Penn & Tylers Green
Penn were two goals up in this game, thanks to Holly Wyncoll, before the match was abandoned due to a neck injury to an Oxford player. Best wishes go to the player in question. Hoping for a swift and full recovery.

Slough Town 0-2 Farnborough
An unfortunate own goal and a composed Poppy Hawkin finish gave Farnborough all three points at Arbour Park. Borough could now climb as high as second should they win their games in hand. Slough now have just one game remaining, but are safely positioned in mid-table.

​AFC Stoneham 4-2 Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Hollie Keating and Ellie Hayward helped Harlequins into a 2-1 lead at the break. However Stoneham were not to be denied, coming back to take all three points. Two goals each rom Aimee Gritt and captain Mia Flood, sealed the deal for The Purps.

AFC Varsity 2-1 Bursledon
Gurinder Rayat scored a goal in each half to give Varsity the points and lift them up to eighth in the table, above Guernsey and Bursledon. Take a look at the winning goal courtesy of The Terrace Traveller (@TerraceTrav) 

Farnham Town P-P Shaftesbury

Wimborne Town 0-0 Andover New Street
There's little to separate these teams in the league table and that proved to be the case on the pitch too. Both are very safe from any worries, but could still have an effect on the top three, especially New Street, who still have two games against the league leaders to come. First of all, though, the reverse fixture of this game awaits the teams next weekend.

​Badshot Lea 2-1 Tilehurst Panthers
The Baggies found some welcome relief from the league woes and booked themselves a meeting with Sholing in the net round of The Chairman's Cup. After a goalless first half, Gemma Luke opened the scoring on 49 minutes. However, Panthers were soon level through top scorer Leah Why. Holly Montgomery sealed victory for Badshot Lea with five minutes remaining.

Bournemouth Sports Reserves 1-1 (p4-2) Havant & Waterlooville
Sports, who have struggled to win at home in the league, took the lead in this game through Morgan Hill's 28th minute strike. However, Jodie Burchell levelled things for The Hawks. Sports went on to win 4-2 in the penalty shootout.

Kidlington Youth 0-1 Sholing
The Greens showed more of the fight that earned them a league point last weekend, but were ultimately defeated by Sophie Lee's 69th minute winner. Sholing now face a trip to Badshot Lea in the next round.

Winchester City Flyers v Farnborough
A tough assignment for Division One North Farnborough as they face up to a Flyers side who have been scoring goals for fun recently. BotP was at the semi-final between Andover New Street and Winchester last month (New Street Knocked Out By A Haymaker) in which Chelsie Hay hit a hat-trick. The Flyers striker scored seven last weekend, to emphasise her current form. Farnborough, however, have won four on the bounce in all competitions and will no doubt be up for the challenge. All being well, BotP will be there to witness the game.
Longmeadow (Whitchurch United), ​RG28 7RB

​Beaconsfield Town v Fleet Town
Something of a mid-table battle between two sides who have not met each other yet this season. It's fair to say that both have been inconsistent and will be looking to finish strongly in preparation for the next term. The Rams are still only a couple of points off third spot.
​Holloways Park, HP9 2SE

​Abingdon United Development v Oxford City Development
City are probably looking to take at least three more points from their remaining three games in order to guarantee survival. United are secure in mid-table but could still push for as top three finish. Abingdon won the reverse fixture 3-0 with goals from April England, Beth Hawtin and Jessica Exell.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Ascot United Reserves v Penn & Tylers Green
Penn won't have given up the title chase, but it's looking increasingly like they are playing for second spot. Ascot are only three points above Kidlington, at the bottom, and have played three more games. The reverse fixture was awarded as a home win to Penn.
The Racecourse Ground, SL5 7LJ

Farnborough v Larkspur Rovers
Borough could still make a dent in the top three with their games in hand. They'll be looking to begin reeling in second placed Larkspur on Sunday. However, first they have the NHDFA Cup Final against Winchester to look forward to on Thursday. This is their first meeting with Larkspur, who trail leaders Denham by eight points.
Westleigh Park, PO9 5TH

Tilehurst Panthers v Kidlington Youth
A first meeting of the season between these two. Panthers sit in eighth, ten points above the Greens. Like Oxford, Tilehurst will feel that one more win would see them safe, especially if it came at the hands of a team currently below them. A win for Kidlington could take them level with Ascot.
The Rivermoor, Scours Lane, Reading, RG30 6AY

​Andover New Street v Wimborne Town
After their 0-0 draw at Wimborne last Sunday, these two face up again. separated by a point, but with Andover having two games in hand. The home side have a good defensive record at home, so this one is likely to also be quite a tight encounter, although Town average almost 3 goals per game on their travels.
Foxcotte Park, SP11 0TA

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Since beating Stoneham to go second, Bemerton have only taken one point from their last five league outings. Sports, somewhat conversely, have won their last three in all competitions and sit just above Bemerton on goal difference. The reverse fixture ended in a 2-2 draw with all four goals coming in the opening 28 minutes.
Barry Jackman Sports Pavilion, RG28 7FS
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Farnham Town v AFC Varsity
With ten wins from ten games, Farnham lead the division by three points and have four games in hand on second placed Havant. Varsity's defeat of Bursledon last weekend lifted them well clear of trouble. The reverse fixture saw 12 goals scored, ten of which came in a manic 32-minute spell in the second half, as Farnham won 8-4.
Memorial Ground, GU9 7DY

Guernsey v Havant & Waterlooville
The Hawks are still on the tail of Farnham but, with games running out and Town showing no signs of weakness, it's beginning to look like a race for second place. Guernsey's form has dipped in the latter part of the season, after a good start. However, they are safe from any trouble. The reverse fixture ended in a 0-0 draw.
Victoria Avenue, Guernsey GY2 4BB

Shaftesbury v AFC Stoneham
Stoneham are another side who will not be giving up the chase of Farnham until it's mathematically impossible. They make the trip to Shaftesbury who, twelve points adrift at the bottom, have only pride to play for in reality. The reverse fixture, played at the start of this month, ended in an 8-1 Purps victory.
Coppice Street, SP7 8PD

​Reading v AFC Portchester
Oddly, given how late in the season we now are, these two have yet to meet. Portchy come into the game fresh from inflicting Wycombe's first home defeat of the season. However, you have to remember that Reading also drew at Wycombe and beat the league leaders at home. Both will be keen to get to a cup final and the chance to add some silverware.
Arbour Park, SL2 5AY

Winchester City Flyers v Wycombe Wanderers
A third meeting of the season between these two teams. Wycombe have the upper hand in the league, having done the double over Flyers. However, the Chairgirls come into the game on the back of a home defeat to Portchester, whist Winchester were smashing in a dozen against Woodley.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO23 7SU

​Badshot Lea v Sholing
The teams have already met twice in the league this season, with both encounters ending in away wins. The Baggies won 3-1 at Sholing in November, their only three-pointer of the season so far. Sholing had a morale-boosting win against Reading at the weekend, a win that put them eight points clear of the Baggies.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Bursledon v Denham United
A tough ask for The Dons, up against a Denham side that is still defending a 100% league record. Bursledon are relatively safe from danger in the league, so can concentrate fully on this competition. 
Priory Park, SO32 1SQ

Woodley United v Oxford City
United's only league victory of the season came at Oxford back in February (Super Stalley's Goal Statistics Make Woodley So Vivacious). However, they'll need to shake off Sunday's heavy defeat to Winchester before taking on City again. Oxford earned a creditable draw at Southampton on Sunday and are still fighting on two cup fronts, this competition and the Oxfordshire FA Women's Cup.
​UofR Bulmershe Pavilion, ​RG5 3HE

On Sunday, across the leagues, teams came together to celebrate International Women's Day and nowhere was it more pertinent than at Southampton Women's FC. Ahead of their game with Wycombe, the teams and supporters came together to celebrate the life and the amazing legacy of Lynda Hale who sadly passed away on February 26th. Lynda was one of the pioneers of women's football. She won 7 FA Cups with Southampton, including the first ever final, and played in the first ever England Women's international, against Scotland in 1972. A true great of women's football.

​AFC Portchester 5-0 Fleet Town
A fifth league win on the bounce for Portchy. Rebecca Bath added another two goals her tally, making it 17 for the season. Millie Bradbury, Gemma Hillier and Maisy Smith added the other three goals as Portchester closed the gap on the top teams. This win, coupled with Wycombe's draw, means that Portchy can now overtake the Chairgirls should they win all their games in hand.

Badshot Lea P-P Woodley United

Sholing 1-0 Reading
Reading suffered their first defeat since early January and Sholing won for the first time this year. Kezia Holmes got the only goal after a quarter of an hour. Reading pushed for an equaliser but came up just short on this occasion.

Southampton 0-0 Wycombe Wanderers
A second draw inside two weeks for these two very well matched teams. The draw gives renewed hope to both Winchester and Portchester as the title race really begins to heat up. Wycombe still have to play Portchester twice. Southampton have both Winchester and Portchester in their remaining fixtures. Read the match report on the Southampton web site.

Winchester City Flyers 3-0 Oxford City
Flyers re-took second spot with this win over Oxford. They got off to a great start when Kayleigh Tonks put them a goal up after just five minutes. However, it stayed that way until the break, Two minutes after the restart Laura da Silva made it 2-0. Just before the hour Charlie Snelling sealed the points. Listen to Emma Pearmine's post-match analysis.

​Denham United 4-1 Abingdon United Development
Another Sunday, another Denham victory. The relentless United steam train thunders on with a 6-point lead and a game in hand on second placed Larkspur. Lauren Cox scored twice with Niamh Cashin and Annie Hewitt chiming in with the other two goals. Chloe Forrester had put Abingdon in front early on.

Farnborough 3-2 Oxford City Development
City had Poppy Ellis sent off but not before she had scored both of their goals. However, Laura Quinn-Low and two from Lily Stride, including a 90th minute winner, were enough for Farnborough to take the points.


Kidlington Youth 4-4 Ascot United Reserves
A brilliant basement battle at Yarnton Road. The Greens held a 2-0 lead at the break thanks to Julia Rushmere and Amy Busby. Ascot got one back early in the second half, but Courtney Sumner quickly restored the two goal cushion. Ascot then scored twice in quick succession to get back on level terms, only for Busby to give the hosts the lead in the last minute. Resilient Ascot battled back again, levelling it up in the 95th minute. Read about it in the BotP match blog (Bottom Two Battle It Out)

Larkspur Rovers 3-1 Tilehurst Panthers
Calleigh Wright put Rovers ahead after 13 minutes. Savana Fearon then added a second just past the half-hour. Fearon the made it 3-0 with just over 20 minutes remaining before Leah Why pulled one pack for Panthers.

Penn & Tylers Green 3-4 Chesham United Development
Penn raced into a three goal lead before the half-hour. Goals from Ellie Lovelock after 11 minutes and a double from Tara Woodward had them 3-0 up at halftime. However, Chesham hit back with a devastating 14-minute salvo. Emma NcNamee after 56 minutes, Bo Edwards on the hour, Ajla Tang three minutes later, and Ruby Slade, with 20 minutes remaining, gave United all three points.

​AFC Stoneham 3-1 Guernsey
The Green Lionesses led at Stoneham Lane through Ruby Smith's 15th minute opener. However, Praise Petrache had The Purps level by half-time. Aimee Gritt then put the hosts in front before Megan Newton sealed the points with just under a quarter of an hour left.

AFC Varsity 1-6 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
After last weekend's excellent away win in Guernsey, Varsity were brought back to earth by a rampant Sports display. Abi Lander, an eight-minute Charlotte Kerr hat-trick and a Hannah Hughes strike, saw Bournemouth clock up five goals before the break. Kiera De Angelis added the sixth shortly after the hour.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 0-6 Farnham Town
Farnham maintained their 100% record with a half-dozen on the road. Lily Last opened the scoring after 8 minutes. Rachael Manley doubled the lead on the half-hour, which is how it stayed until the break. Almost immediately after the restart Echo Barrett made it 3-0, before Iesha Swaby took over. The Town top scorer helped herself to another hat-trick as Farnham moved ever closer to the title. Watch the goals here.

Havant & Waterlooville 1-1 Andover New Street
All square at Westleigh Park. A result that leaves Havant trailing Farnham by three points but having played four additional games. Calla Swain scored for the third game running for The Hawks whilst Freya Twigg made it 13 for the season for Andover.

Shaftesbury 0-7 Wimborne Town
The Magpies and particularly Sheree Bell-Jack, took control of this game in the first-half. Bell-Jack opened the scoring after 15 minutes before Emily Nieman made it two six minutes later. Bell-Jack then notched two more after the half-hour, completing her hat-trick. After the break Carly Williamson, Maddie Vass and Ellie Chaffe all scored to send Wimborne home with a comprehensive victory.

​Oxford City v Southampton
City are far enough clear of danger to feel reasonably safe, but well off the pace at the top this season. Southampton have drawn with the leaders twice in two weeks and, although an outside chance, will still feel they are up there in the mix. The reverse fixture in September ended in a 4-4 draw with City's Yasmin Edwards scoring twice and then getting a red car in added time.
Marsh Lane, OX3 0NQ

Winchester City Flyers v Woodley United
Flyers moved back to second at the weekend, eleven points adrift of Wycombe but with thee games in hand. They'll have this home game against relegation threatened Woodley marked down as a good opportunity to get three more points. Two Annie Northwood goals in two second-half minutes saw Flyers win 2-1 at Woodley in the reverse fixture.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO23 7SU

Wycombe Wanderers v AFC Portchester
The big games just keep on coming for the leaders. After tough challenges against Southampton (twice) and Winchester City, they now welcome Portchester to Adams Park. Portchy are the only team who can go above Wycombe if they win al their games in hand, so this is a massive six-pointer, especially as Wycombe go to Portchester on the last day.
Adams Park, HP12 4HJ

​Abingdon United Development v Larkspur Rovers
Back into second at the weekend, it's already been a tremendous season for Rovers. They still trail Denham by nine points but are now established as the closest rivals to the leaders. Abingdon are three places and seven points behind Rovers and lost 4-2 at Larkspur just 2 weeks ago. However, all of their remaining games are at The Northcourt, so they will be looking for a strong finish.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Ascot United Reserves v Denham United
United are now thirteen for thirteen in their relentless pursuit of the league title. The travel to second bottom Ascot looking to make it 14 on the bounce. However, they can't under-estimate the Yellows, who showed their fighting spirit at Kidlington last Sunday (Bottom Two Battle It Out).
The Racecourse Ground, SL5 7LJ

Oxford City Development v Penn & Tylers Green
City are eight points clear of the drop zone but have played five more games than Kidlington. They'll be looking to get a few more points on the board to make sure of survival. Penn conceded a three goal lead to lose 4-2 to Chesham at the weekend, slipping further behind in the title race. This is the first meeting of the teams this season.
Marsh Lane, OX3 0NQ

Slough Town v Farnborough
Something of a mid-table battle between two teams who are safe but not really in any position to trouble the top. Slough, in fact, only have two games remaining, both at home. Farnborough beat The Rebels 3-1 at The Easy AS HGV Stadium back in September. Ellie Stalley (now at Woodley United) and Alicia Grinhaff  were both dismissed in the game.
Arbour Park, SL2 5AY

​AFC Stoneham v Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Three defeats on the bounce have seen Harlequins drop off the pace in recent weeks. Stoneham have won their last two, but are still trailing Farnham by seven points and have played three more games than the leaders. Bemerton beat Stoneham 1-0, with a very late winner, in the reverse fixture (Harlequins No Joke For Purps).
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

AFC Varsity v Bursledon
Locked on 15 points each, twelve above the drop zone, this tussle is probably more about personal pride than anything else. Having said that, both teams will be wanting to finish as high as possible and Guernsey are only two points above them. Varsity will also be wanting to avenge their 6-0 defeat at The Dons a month ago.
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, SO51 6EA

Farnham Town v Shaftesbury
Top versus bottom. Highest scorers against leakiest defence. Farnham look to continue their 100% record, which now stands at ten games. Shaftesbury are twelve from safety and, in all likeliness, resigned to finishing bottom of the pile. This is the first meeting this season.
Memorial Ground, GU9 7DY

Wimborne Town v Andover New Street
There's only a point between these two teams, in a very congested mid-table. There's not too much between the teams in recent for either, with both having won three of their last six. New Street have the advantage of having played two fewer then The Magpies. This is the first meeting of the season. The reverse fixture is next weekend.
Wyatt Homes Stadium, BH21 2FU

​Badshot Lea v Tilehurst Panthers
Panthers, with little to no threat in the league, can concentrate fully on this cup encounter with higher-ranked opposition. The Baggies, however, are ensconced in a relegation fight alongside Woodley United. Having said that, a cup win could be just the confidence boost they need to help their survival push.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Havant & Waterlooville
Both league meetings between these teams have ended in away wins. Sports won 3-1 at Westleigh Park and The Hawks won 1-0 at Chapel Gate. Sports received a bye in Round 1 whereas Havant were 5-1 winders at home to Ascot United Reserves.
Chapel Gate, BH23 6BL

Kidlington Youth v Sholing
Taking a break from their relegation battle, Kidlington may well be looking forward to the visit of Premier League Sholing. The Boatwomen beat Reading 1-0 at the weekend, but prior to that had lost five on the bounce. Judging by the grit and determination showed by Kidlington at the weekend (Bottom Two Battle It Out), Sholing will need to be on their guard.
Yarnton Road, OX5 1AT

Attention this Sunday turned to the battle for survival in Division One North. The bottom two sides, Kidlington Youth and Ascot United Reserves going head-to-head for the first time this season. The state of play before kick-off was that Kidlington sat at the foot of the table with four points, three points adrift of Ascot but with two games in hand. However, Kidlington's goal difference of -38 was significantly worse than Ascot's -13. Both teams were still in touching distance of third-bottom Oxford City Development who, although six points above Ascot had played three more than United and five more than Kidlington.
Although this was the first meeting this season, last term Ascot held sway, winning both games. They edged a close game 2-1 at Exeter Park and thrashed the Greens 8-0 at The Racecourse.
This match blog will be slightly different to normal because, on request from both coaches, due to Ascot having a very young squad, I will not be using player names for The Yellows and I did not take any photos of the match action. If any Ascot players see their shirt number in the blog and want mew to substitute their name, I'll be more than happy to do it, but privacy and safeguarding comes first.
Before we get into the match action, let me just reiterate that, in the past, I had a connection to Kidlington. My daughter spent a very happy season and a half with their youth setup a couple of years back. I do have a soft spot for the club because if she had not moved to Kidlington, I don't think she would still be playing football.
Thanks to Kidlington manager Vinny Murphy for sharing his team sheet with me prior to kick-off.
I must also mention the fantastic International Women's Day post that Kidlington made on Facebook, a collection of photos of their current squad as toddlers. Brilliant!​

There have been a couple of changes to the Kidlington squad since I last visited in October, a 2-1 home defeat to Abingdon United Development (United Getting The Winning Habit). Both Sara Pinna and Kiera Isaac have left for Brackley Town, with a few new names to me appearing on the team sheet, such as Amy Busby and Elyse Thomas-Collaire.
The importance of this game would not have been lost on the players from both teams, but it was the more experienced heads of the home side that took some early control. Just over ten minutes were on the clock when Ascot's captain and goalkeeper stopped Courtney Sumner's initial strike, but was powerless to prevent Julia Rushmere from slamming in the loose ball. 1-0
A few minutes later, with the bit between their teeth, The Greens possibly should have been two up. Sumner sent Abi Haynes clear but her powerful shot went high and wide. We then had a lengthy break in play after Sumner and Ascot's Number 6 had a nasty clash of heads in the centre circle. Thankfully both were able to walk off the pitch and both would return to the fray later in the game.
After the restart Rushmere test the Ascot keeper again before, just before the half-hour, Ascot's Number 15 let fly from outside the box. A decent strike, but not testing Emily Murphy. It was, however, a sign that the visitor's were beginning to believe in themselves a little more. Their Number 11 was next to show intent, twisting and turning on the edge of the box, before sending a low drive inches past Murphy's left-hand post.
At the other end, Haynes was very unfortunate to see her 25-yard, dipping drive crash back off the bar. Then, two minutes before the end of normal time in the first-half substitute Amy Busby was sent clear of the Ascot defence and finished clinically to make it 2-0.
Into added time at the end of the half and Ascot came very close to pulling one back when Number 11 was first to react to a loose ball dropping behind Kidlington lines. She lofted the ball over the onrushing Emily Murphy, only to see it clip the outside of the post on its was out for a goal-kick. Then, with the final kick of the half, Ascot's Number 11 did get the ball in the Kidlington net, but the offside flag had gone up well beforehand.


HT Kidlington Youth 2 Ascot United Reserves 0. A good half for Kidlington but Ascot have created enough chances to indicate that they can do some damage. If they got one back, who knows?

The signs were there towards the end of the first-half, Ascot had started to cause Kidlington some problems and, three minutes into the second period, those problems became reality when Number 9 struck a beautiful effort from outside the box, beating Murphy to make it 2-1.
The way the game had started to swing it would have been easy for Kidlington's confidence to crumble. However, they are made of sterner stuff and, five minutes after conceding, they restored their two goal lead. It came from a long ball over the top and, when goalkeeper and central defender hesitated, Courtney Sumner got between them to lift the ball over the keeper into the net. 3-1.
That goal felt decisive and, for a while it took the wind out of Ascot sails. However, as the half progressed, the visitors began to exert more and more pressure as the home side began to feel the pace of the game. Ascot kept probing at the Kidlington back-line until, in the 72nd minute, they once again broke through. Number 11 finally beat the offside trap before sliding the ball past Murphy. 3-2
With just a goal in it, Ascot were scenting blood and Kidlington began to get pushed deeper and deeper. Murphy was called upon once again, making a crucial block to prevent a leveller. However, five minutes after their second goal, Ascot did square the game up when a cross from the right flank was swept home by their left-back, Number 14. A very tidy finish to make it 3-3.
At this point there looked to be only one winner. Ascot were all over Kidlington and, despite making a few changes, the home side looked dead on their feet. Ascot's Number 9 turned and shot in the area, but dragged her effort wide, then Murphy made another great block, this time with her feet, as the Greens hung on.
Approaching the last minute of the half, however, Kidlington showed that steely resolve once more. Amy Busby burst down the right flank, running clear of the defence. The Ascot keeper, once again, saved the initial shot well, but Busby followed in to squeeze the ball over the line despite the best efforts of both goalkeeper and a defender. 4-3 and surely the winner.
After battling back from two goals down, Ascot could have been forgiven for folding at this point, but it wasn't just the home side who were displaying bravery today. Five minutes into added time, Ascot's Number 11, who had run the home defence ragged at times, drove down the right, almost to the goal-line, before cutting inside and drilling the ball past Murphy from a very tight angle. 4-4.

FT Kidlington Youth 4 Ascot United Reserves 4. What a game, especially the second half. You would not find better entertainment that that second 45 minutes anywhere. Two teams who refused to be beaten, refused to give in and fought to the last second of the game. In the end, a draw was a fair result because neither team deserved to lose, although a point each is certainly not the result they were looking for. On this showing, however, Oxford City Development, who lost at Farnborough, will still be looking over their shoulders. Neither of these teams are planning to get relegated with a whimper, that's for sure.
Next up, Kidlington have a Chairman's Cup clash at home to Premier League Sholing. Meanwhile, Ascot are preparing for the visit of league leaders, Denham United.

Kidlington Youth: 1.Murphy, 2.Cotton, 4.Owen, 5.Dunbavin(c), 6.Keal, 7.Clements, 8 Woodward, 15.Haynes, 10.J.Rushmere, 16.Sumner, 23.Chewings. Subs: 27.Ward, 3.Altonen, 12. Thomas-Collaire, 9.Busby, 11.I.Rushmere

In the Premier League, Wycombe got back to winning ways and have now opened up a thirteen point gap at the top. Denham maintained their 100% record in the North and they too have a big lead, eight points in this case. In the South, Farnham's game was called off but they still have a one point advantage and four games in hand. Coming up, two relegation six-pointers and yet another first v second clash. In the Premier Woodley travel to Badshot Lea and, in the North, it's Kidlington v Ascot United Reserves as the bottom two each both divisions go head-to-head. meanwhile, it's second versus top again in the Premier, as Wycombe visit Southampton.

​Beaconsfield Town 2-1 Badshot Lea
The Rams got back to winning ways and jumped up to fourth spot with this defeat of The Baggies. Mia Parkin and Katie Riddington had given the home side a two goal cushion but they had to hold off something of a fightback from Badshot Lea after Michelle Quinn pulled one back. Listen the post-match comments of Beaconsfield's Brian Harris and watch the highlights from the Beaconsfield YouTube channel.

Fleet Town 2-7 Oxford City
Ellie Walecki put The hoops ahead early on and, although Fleet levelled it up, three goals in the final 5 minutes of the half gave City a big lead at the break. Emily Harris hit the second on 40 minutes, Ellie White added the third a minute later and Harris scored her second on 43 minutes. After the restart Ellie White added another, quickly followed by the sixth from Yasmin Edwards. Fleet got another back on 66 minutes, but two minutes later Lucy White add Oxford's seventh. Layla Drury and Lily Martin were the Town goalscorers.

Reading 0-0 Southampton
A second consecutive away point for The Sirens, following last weekend's 2-2 draw at Wycombe. The result also ended a ruin of three league wins for The Royals, who lost a place in the table following Beaconsfield's win. Read the Southampton match report and the Reading point of view, courtesy of The Tilehurst End.

Woodley United 0-4 AFC Portchester
Portchester inflicted a fifth home defeat of the season on Woodley, who are yet to win at Bulmershe Pavilion. Laurie Potvin gave Portchester the lead, Sarah Butterworth added two more to her season's tally and April Hill rounded things off.

Wycombe Wanderers 2-0 Winchester City Flyers
The Chairgirls opened up a thirteen point lead at the top, albeit having played two more than their closest rivals. Laura Hennessey got them off the mark from close range before Jess Watkins smash in a beauty from the edge of the box to tie up the points. Watch both goals on the Wycombe X feed and take a look at the match photos courtesy of Andy Wicks.

​Ascot United Reserves 1-4 Tilehurst Panthers
Leah Why scored all four for Tilehurst as they condemned Ascot to a fourth home league defeat of the season. The Panthers hot-shot scored midway through the first-half and then added a fourteen minute hat-trick either side of the hour. Kezia Nzeribe​ hit Ascot's consolation shortly after Why's fourth goal.
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Kidlington Youth 2-6 Denham United
The league leaders continued their 100% record, which now stretches to 12 games, by clocking up a half-dozen at bottom side Kidlington. Annie Hewitt helped herself to a hat-trick whilst Rebecca Horwood, Niamh Cashin and Sofia Harris were also on the mark form United. Kidlington's goals were score by Julie Rushmere and Isobel Rushmere.

Larkspur Rovers 4-2 Abingdon United Development
Rovers kept up their chase for what is now looking like second spot and put four points between themselves and Abingdon. Savana Fearon added two more to her impressive total, now standing at 17, whilst Kalina Georgieva and Shenice Dyer also scored. April England and Yasmin Pearson added Abingdon's goals.

Chesham United Development 1 Farnborough 2
Ruby Slade's strike for Chesham just after the hour was not enough to prevent them from falling to a fifth home defeat of the season. An own goal from a corner and a Laura Quinn-Low strike secured the points for Borough.

Penn & Tylers Green P-P Oxford City Development

​AFC Stoneham 8-1 Shaftesbury
The Purps won for the first time in 2026 and did so in some style. Chloe Marshall, Pyrena Heath and Emma Simpson each scored two goal. Captain Mia Flood and Scarlet Darnton were also on the mark. Poppy Failes scored Shaftesbury's consolation just after the half-hour.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 1-3 Andover New Street
New Street's Freya Twigg continued her form from Thursday's NHDFA semi-final (New Street Knocked Out By A Haymaker), putting Andover in front at Bemerton. Hollie Keating equalised for the home side, but Twigg then put Andover back in front from the spot. Zoe Ridley added a third, putting New Street just two points behind Harlequins with four games in hand.

Farnham Town P-P Bursledon
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Guernsey 1-4 AFC Varsity
A late Ruby Smith consolation was all Guernsey had to show for their endeavours on Sunday. Varsity took the spoils back to the mainland thanks to first half goals from Sofia Ryan and Gurinder Rayat. Eloise Paine then added two more after the break.

Havant & Waterlooville 2-1 Wimborne Town
The Hawks moved to within a point of Farnham Town after edging past Wimborne Town. Calla Swain put Havant in front but, with 15 minutes remaining, Abigail Buck levelled things up for The Magpies. However, Mia Gardner scored a late winner for the home side.

​AFC Portchester v Fleet Town
Despite being down in sixth spot, Portchester could still draw level with Wycombe should they manage to win all of their six games in hand, which includes a trip to Wycombe in two weeks. Fleet were beaten at home last weekend but are well clear of danger. Portchy won the reverse fixture 4-2.
Wicor Recreation Ground, PO16 9DP

Badshot Lea v Woodley United
The very definition of a relegation six-pointer. Bottom side Badshot Lea hosting second from bottom Woodley United. The teams are level on points but Woodley have played two fewer than The Baggies. The reverse fixture ended in a 1-1 draw. A repeat of that would suit United more than Badshot Lea, who really do need to win the game to give themselves a good chance of survival.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Sholing v Reading
The Boatwomen are five points above the bottom two, so they'll be looking to secure a few more points in order to guarantee a place at the top table next season. Reading won the reverse fixture 2-1 and are on a run of five without defeat in all competitions.
The Mortgage Decisions Stadium, SO19 9PW

Southampton v Wycombe Wanderers
The second meeting in two weeks. BotP had the pleasure of witnessing the 2-2 draw at Burnham last month. If this game is anything similar, it will be a cracker. Wycombe's defeat of Winchester last weekend has seen them open a big gap at the top. Victory in this game would go a long way towards securing the title. However, a Sirens victory would give the chasing pack a glimmer of hope.
Redbridge Community School, Southampton, SO16 9RJ

Winchester City Flyers v Oxford City
This will be the first meeting of these two this season. Last weekend The Hoops got back on track after losing four on the bounce in the league. Winchester were beaten for the first time in four, going down 2-0 at Wycombe. Last season this fixture ended in a 3-3 draw with Flyers equalising late on through Libby Wilkinson screamer for 30 yards.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO23 7SU

​Denham United v Abingdon United Development
With an eight point lead and still defending their 100% record after twelve games, Denham look to make it a baker's dozen at home to Abingdon this weekend. For their part, Abingdon would mathematically be out of the running should they lose. Denham won the reverse fixture 4-1 back in September.
The Den, Oxford Road, Denham, UB9 4DW

Farnborough v Oxford City Development
The only team who have not played a double figure number league games, Farnborough will be looking to use their games in hand to push them further up the league. City, who have played seven games more than their hosts, are nine points above the drop zone, but would still like a few more to feel 100% safe. The reverse game ended in a 0-0 draw.
The Easy As HGV Stadium, GU14 8UD

Kidlington Youth v Ascot United Reserves
It's fast becoming last chance saloon time for Kidlington. Still without a league win, they are three points from safety. So, this game against the team directly above them is a massive six-pointer for both teams. It is their first meeting of the season with the reverse fixture scheduled for the last weekend. That one could be even bigger.
Yarnton Road, OX5 1AT

Larkspur Rovers v Tilehurst Panthers
Rovers are very proudly sitting in third spot, just a point below Penn & Tylers Green. Tilehurst are currently in eighth but have at least one game in hand on most teams in the league. They are yet to meet in the league after the reverse fixture was postponed in mid-February.
Lord Halsbury Memorial Playing Fields, UB5 5FE

Penn & Tylers Green v Chesham United Development
Eight points adrift of the leaders, all that Penn can do is keep winning and hope that Denham slip up and give them a chance when the teams meet in April. Chesham only have two games remaining and are safely positioned in mid-table. Penn won 4-1 at Chesham on the opening day.
French School Meadow, HP10 8LG

​AFC Stoneham v Guernsey
After finally getting back to winning ways last weekend, Stoneham will be looking to push on as Guernsey make the visit to Stoneham Lane. The Green Lionesses, after starting the season well, have found life a little harder in recent weeks, although they did pick up a valuable 3 points at home to Shaftesbury two weeks ago. The reverse fixture ended in 1-1 draw.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

AFC Varsity v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Varsity's win in Guernsey last weekend saw them move 12 points clear of bottom spot. However, they'll be looking to go level on points with this week's opponents with a win. Sports have won two of their last three and could climb as high as third with a win, depending upon other results. Varsity won 1-0 at Bournemouth in September (Sports Suffer From Kayja Vu)
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, Romey. SO51 6EA

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v Farnham Town
Harlequins look to be the first team to take a point or more off Farnham this season, at the tenth time of asking.
Farnham won the reverse fixture 5-1 and were awarded a home walkover when the teams were drawn together in the League Cup. Quins, however, have the second best home defensive record in the league, only better by Farnham.
Barry Jackman Sports Pavilion, RG28 7FS

Havant & Waterlooville v Andover New Street
Both teams won lats time out, Havant at home to Wimborne and New Street at Bemerton Heath. Both will also still feel they have an outside chance of catching the leaders, but they will need Farnham to slip up more than once. Two goal from captain Emma-Jane May and one from Chelsie Hay, her last goal for the club before moving to Winchester, saw The Hawks win the reverse fixture 3-0.
Westleigh Park, PO9 5TH
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Shaftesbury v Wimborne Town
Wimborne have lost their last two league outings, both against Havant & Waterlooville, but their last league win came at home to this weekend's opponents, back in January. Sheree Bell-Jack scored twice that day , in a 3-1 victory.
Coppice Street, SP7 8PD