This Sunday I had made my mind up to head to one of the furthest points (for me anyway) in the Southern Region League, Bournemouth Sports. It was a calculated risk to make a 210 mile, 4 hour, round trip, but a check of the forecast for Bournemouth showed that the rain currently falling in Bicester was not going to spread South. As it turned out, the game was played mostly in bright sun and above average temperature.
The match in question was the Division One South tussle between current leaders Bournemouth Sports Reserves and mid-table AFC Varsity. Sports had gone top after last week's 8-0 victory at Nursling & Shirley, but had played more games than those around them. Varsity won their opening league game 3-0 against Shaftesbury but had then lost by the same score to Stoneham in their second outing. Last season this fixture ended 1-0 to Varsity thanks to an early Kayleigh Mackay goal. The same player also scored Varsity's goal in the 1-1 home draw, after Abi Lander had given Sports the lead.

​After being concerned about possible rain, the worst problem the spectators had as we approached kick-off was the bright sunshine shining directly into our eyes.
The visitors appeared to settle into the game earlier than their hosts, but weren't able to mount any serious attacks and, as the half progressed, Sports played their way back into the game and began to edge it in terms of possession. However, neither side managed to seriously test their opposing goalkeeper.
Kay Mackay mustered the first attempt on target in the 20th minute, receiving the ball on the right-hand edge of the area but firing directly at Maya Newsham, who handled the shot comfortably.
Both teams continued to probe for openings, but the defences were in charge at this point, neither giving the strikers many glimpses of the goal. With ten minutes to go until the break, Bournemouth were awarded a free-kick some 30 yards out in a fairly central position. Olivia Palmer took aim and hit the target but it was too far out to give Jade Collins too many problems. A few minutes later Sports earned another free-kick, some 5 yards closer and slightly to the left. Palmer took aim once again, sending the shot low towards the left-hand post. Collins had to dive to her left to make the save, allowing the ball to squirm loose but recovering quickly to fall on it before any strikers could follow in.
A minute before half-time Varsity came as close as anyone to opening the scoring when Newsham spilled Jess Nunn's effort. Mackay was quick to react but so was Newsham and, with both players throwing themselves bravely into the challenge, the ball span wide of the mark.

HT Bournemouth Sports Reserves 0 AFC Varsity 0. A fairly evenly matched half of football. After a slow start, Bournemouth probably held an advantage in  terms of possession, but Varsity generated the better opportunities.

​A slight alteration in formation saw Varsity switch top-scorer Kay Mackay into a more central role for the second-half. Within a minute of the restart the change paid off. A glorious through ball from Jess Nunn  found Eloise Payne. Her progress was slowed by a defender but she managed to slip the ball inside for Mackay who calmly rolled the ball under Newsham. 0-1

Whilst Bournemouth looked to get back on level terms, it was the visitors who generated the next big chance when substitute Gurender Rayat was sent clear, one on one with Maya Newsham. This time the Sports stopper came out on top, blocking the attempt well to keep her team in it.
The game was halted in the 72nd minute when Carmen Perry went down with a head injury. At first it looked as if she had been caught by the ball, but it soon became apparent that it was a little more than that. However, after a fairly lengthy delay, and some bandaging applied by Varsity's own player-doctor Armiee Akpobire, Perry was able to get back on her feet and leave the field under her own steam, thankfully.
Heading into the last few minutes, Sports continued to push forward, looking for the elusive equaliser. Tilly Pitcher as given a clear view of goal but, from twenty yards, she struck her shot well over. Then, in the final minute of normal time, Varsity had something of a lucky escape. Olivia Palmer's low drive was well-struck but straight at Collins. The goalkeeper elected to go with her feet to make the stop only for the ball to ricochet off her and run just wide of the post. From the ensuing corner Emma Eden met the ball on the volley, only to see her effort also flash wide of the post.

HT Bournemouth Sports Reserves 0 AFC Varsity 1. As the score suggests, there wasn't too much between the teams throughout the 90 minutes. Clear cut chances were few and far between but Kay Mackay took her chance and sent Varsity home with the points, an exact repeat of lats season's result. The defeat sees Sports lose top spot to AFC Stoneham, but they remain in second. Varsity move up a place to sixth, just a point behind Bournemouth in a congested mid-table.
Next weekend Sports make the trip along the coast to take on fourth placed Havant & Waterlooville. Last season The Hawks edged this one by the odd goal in nine. A game that saw Havant's, now departed striker, Sophie Lee score a hat-trick and Bournemouth's Isobel Weatherly see red.
Varsity are also on the road as the visit The Hive, home of bottom side Nursling & Shirley. Last season Varsity snuck a 1-0 victory in this game thanks to a 63rd minute Jennifer Parr strike.

Bournemouth Sports Reserves: 1.Newsham, 16.Charlton, 4.Smallwood(c), 12.Eden, 14.Vass, 13. De Angelis, 5.Hiles, 6.Hughes, 25.Palmer, 22.Pitcher, 3.Lewis. Subs: 7.Beedles, 2.Russell, 15.Vakatawa
AFC Varsity: 1.Collins(c), 17.Sims, 23.Bailey, 22.Goff, 5.Perry, 27.Akpobire, 21.Ebert, 11.Payne, 4.Bray-Spencer, 16.Nunn, 6.Mackay. Subs: Pollard, 15.Rayat, 19.Priest, 20.Renoufcole, 13.Jones

The Ground
Bournemouth Sports are based at Chapel Gate, a multi-sport complex that is managed by Bournemouth University. Situated just a few hundred yards from Bournemouth Airport, the hub is the home to Bournemouth Rugby Club, Bournemouth Squash Club and, of course, Bournemouth Sports Football Club. The approach road takes you past a karting track before opening out into a large car park adjacent to the main clubhouse, bar and cafe. Just past this is the entrance to the rugby club and, if you take a right, a further access road that leads to the football club. There are more parking spaces along this road and next to the main pitch. There are multiple full size pitches but the main one id the pitch closest to the access road. The club has a separate building for changing rooms set back in the woodland behind the pitches. There are dugouts straddling the halfway line and, next to these, a small roofless, seating stand. There are also metal structures along this side of the pitch that look like the could be covered to provide spectator shelter. However they don't currently have any roofing. The playing surface looks to be pretty much flat, with no discernable slope.
The whole complex has a really buzz about it. The main car park was almost full when I got there and all of the various pitches, grass and artificial, were occupied. I counted six different sports being played, football, rugby, hockey, netball, lacrosse and even some American footballers. A brilliant community sports hub.


Ground Number: 462
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A

The FA Cup was front and centre on Sunday with 23 Southern Region teams in knockout action. Fourteen teams made it through to the next round with nine falling by the wayside. Of the nine who were knocked out, seven of them were beaten by other SoReg teams. There were a couple of "cupsets" along the way. Farnham Town's 6-1 win at Premier League neighbours Fleet Town was certainly a statement and Ashridge Park of the Thames Valley League caused a shock at Yarnton Road as they sae off Kidlington Youth 3-2.
In the leagues only a few games were on. Chesham United Development picked up a first point of the season with a 1-1 draw at home to Slough. Tilehurst Panthers also got off the mark, beating Oxford City Development 2-1 at Scours Lane. In the South, Bournemouth Sports Reserves lifted themselves to the summit with an 8-0 win at Nursling & Shirley.

​Abingdon United Development P-P Milton United

Ascot United Reserves P-P Larkspur Rovers

Chesham United Development 1-1 Slough Town
A Henrietta Cunnison goal after 75 minutes looked as if it had earned Chesham a first win of the season. However, they eventually had to settle for a point after Slough's Megan Duffy grabbed an equaliser nine minutes into added time.

Tilehurst Panthers 2-1 Oxford City Development
Panthers edged through to a first win of the season with a narrow 2-1 defeat of Oxford City Development. Leah Why scored both of Tilehurst's goals, in the 21st and 92nd minutes. Precious Kujore was on hand to notch her first for City, who also had Libby Burgess sent off.

​Nursling & Shirley 0-8 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Sports went top of the table with a comprehensive win at The Hive, leaving Nursling & Shirley anchored to the foot of the table and still without a goal. Matilda Pitcher led the way for Bournemouth opening the scoring in the 3rd minute and going on to claim a hat-trick. Milla Lewis added two, one in each half. Charlotte Kerr then also helped herself to a hat-trick, including two goals in two minutes towards the end.

​AFC Stoneham 3-1 Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Two goals from Lucy Bicknell and one from Chloe Marshall was enough to see The Purps through to the 3rd Qualifying Round of the cup. Harlequins did get a goal through Amy Sanger on 39 minutes, but couldn't find a way to rein in Stoneham. The Purps will now take on Gloucester City at Stoneham Lane in the next round.

Badshot Lea 5-0 Basingstoke Town
The Baggies put their league form well and truly behind them as they progressed in the FA Cup with a resounding defeat of Basingstoke Town. Jasmine Lewins opened the scoring in the 31st minute before Louise Curr added a second five minutes later. Badhsot Lea then killed the game with three goals around the hour mark. Curr grabbed her second on the hour, Ellie Gill made it four on 61 minutes and Curr completed her hat-trick three minutes later. Badshot Lea's reward is a trip to National League South West side Maidstone United.

Bursledon 4-2 Andover New Street
Violet Alen gave New Street the lead in this one, but that was soon cancelled out by Charlet Norman-Tasker, who went on to lead 3-1 by the break thanks to two goals from Rosina Folkes. Ruby Allen was then red-carded in the aftermath of Bursledon's fourth goal scored by Isobel Pouncy, before Freya Twigg pulled a goal back for Andover. However, with Andover reduced to nine after losing a player to a head injury, they couldn't find any more goals.

Denham United 1-0 New Bradwell St Peter
They left it late but a Pia Davis goal finally saw off the Bradwell resistance and Denham made it into the hat for the next round. Denham now face a trip to Marsh Lane to take on Oxford City in the next round.

Farnborough 2-3 Oxford City
Division One North newbies Farnborough put up a good fight against their Premier League opponents before losing out to the odd goal in five. Katherine Parsons put The Hoops in front just past the half hour only for Ellie Stalley to level it up just before the hours. Oxford were son back in front thanks to Ellie White. Grace Craven then scored her first City goal on 72 minutes. Farnborough pulled a goal back immediately through Ellie Stallely again, but could not find another equaliser. A home tie with Denham United is next up for Oxford City.

Finchampstead 1-3 Penn & Tylers Green
A brave effort from Finchampstead, playing their first ever home FA Cup tie in front of over 150 spectators. They went behind early on to the first of Tara Woodward's three goals, but were on level terms after 18 minutes when Ruby Huggins latched onto a Laruen Smaje through ball. The hosts held on until the 89th minute when Woodward popped up again, completing her hat-trick in the 93rd minute. Penn now face a trip around the M25 to take on Sutton United.
Photographer Andrew Batt was there to capture all of the action

Fleet Town 1-6 Farnham Town
The first derby game between these two, separated by just under six miles with Farnham creating something of a "cupset" by winning at their Premier League rivals. The visitors took control of the game early on scoring twice, through Iesha Swaby and Maya Adams, within the opening 15 minutes. Rachael Manley added a third on 24 minutes. Adams scored her second goal two minutes after the restart with Rebecca Price making it five six minutes later. With 20 minutes remaining Francesca Thornton added the sixth before Layla Drury got a late consolation for Fleet.
Watch the match highlights on the Farnham Town YouTube channel. Farnham will welcome Eastbourne Borough in the next round.

Harpenden Town 8-1 Woodley United
Eastern Region Premier League Harpenden booked a place in the next round with a resounding victory at home to Woodley United. Leading after 6 minutes through Sophia Amanor, they were four up by half-time with further goals from Amanor again, Jamie Curtain and Chloe Dinsey. Just after the break Sophia Amanor completed her hat-trick. Nancy Tucker made it six after 68 minutes and Leah Shellard added the seventh seven minutes later. May Hamblin then grabbed a consolation for Woodley before Belle Shannon rounded off the scoring a minute from time.  Check out the match action photographs, captured by Andy Wicks. Harpenden's reward is a trip to Haringey Borough.

Havant & Waterlooville 2-3 AFC Portchester
Lottie Spottiswood after 11 minutes and Emma-Jane May, just before the half-hour, had The Hawks two up at the break and thinking about a "cupset". They were still in front with just 11 minutes remaining, before Portchester went on a goal spree, scoring three times in seven minutes through Rebecca Bath, Millie Bradbury and Charmaine True. Photographer Paul Terry captured the match action for us.
Portchester have a south coast derby against Weymouth to look forward to in the next round.

Kidlington Youth 2-3 Ashridge Park
Thames Valley side Ashridge Park sprung something of a surprise in Oxfordshire, knocking their higher-ranked opponents out of the cup. Georgia Boonham fired the Blues into an early lead only for a Courtney Sumner penalty to level the scores after 20 minutes. Eight minutes later Park went back in front through Chloe Barton, also from the spot and before the break, Lauren Broadhurst put the visitors 3-1 up. Julia Rushmere got the Greens back into it but Ashridge held on to claim a fantastic win. You can catch up the match photos thanks to Duncan Eames. Ashridge Park travel to South London Women in the 3rd Qualifying Round.

Manorcroft United 0-5 Reading
Despite the score line, Manorcroft gave their illustrious visitors a real game, especially in the first half. Eventually the experience of the SoReg Premier League side eased them through, but Manorcroft can be very proud of their team and for putting on such a great day out. The difference was made by a selection of the new recruits that Reading brought in over the off-season. Tia Johnson started the scoring with Ellie Manners added a second just over a minute later. Keren Banduka made it three after 72 minutes, then Natalie Cowell grabbed a four minute brace towards the end. Read the BotP match report (Lemons Squeezed Out By Royals). Reading will entertain Brentford in the 3rd Qualifying Round.

Southampton Women 3-0 Steyning Town
Steyning Town put aside the one step difference in league standings as they held The Sirens to 0-0 for more than an hour. However, Southampton finally made the breakthrough on 68 minutes through Eliska Lynn. When Lucy Mear slotted home a penalty in the 81st minute, the cup tie was as good as sealed, but Lynn made certain with her second on the stroke of full-time. A trip to Devon awaits in the next round as the Sirens venture down to Torquay United

St Albans City 1-1 (p4-5) Beaconsfield Town
A tight encounter between these two Step 5 sides. The Rms found themselves ahead at the break after Alix Todd's corner was deflected in for an own goal. However, St Albans levelled the scores soon after the break through Terri Harvey. It stayed that way for the remainder of the match, which went straight to penalties with Beaconsfield squeezing through 5-4. You can watch the full shootout on the Beaconsfield YouTube channel. Beaconsfield's reward is a home tie with Chatham Town.

Wallingford & Crowmarsh 1-10 Wycombe Wanderers
Ruthless Wanderers continued their prolific start to the season by clocking up double figures against Wallingford & Crowmarsh. However, they did have to come from behind after the hosts stunned them with a first minute opener from Megan Osborne. Jessica Watkins squared it up after 10 minutes, but the Chairgirls were made to wait until the 35th minute to get in front, when Kayla Potter scored. Two minutes later Watkins got her second and Chloe Melton made it 4-1 just before the break. Within eight minutes of the restart two more Kayla Potter goals saw the striker claim her hat-trick. Jessica Watkins then also helped herself to a hat-trick after 74 minutes. Potter then struck again with two minutes to go, and Watkins hit her fourth in the final minute before Potter made it ten and five for her a minute into added time. Watch all the goals on the Wycombe X feed.
Wycombe now face a local derby with National League South West side Chesham United

Wimborne Town 1-1 (p3-0) Shaftesbury
The Magpies progressed through their second Dorset FA Cup derby, edging past Shaftesbury on penalties. It was one a piece after 90 minutes thanks top Sheree Bell-Jack for Wimborne and Nikki Castle for Shaftesbury. However, the home team booked their spot in the next round thanks toa 3-0 victory from the spot, earning goalkeeper Tegan Barnes the PotM award, after she saved all three Shaftesbury penalties. Check out the match photos from Steve Harris. Read about the game in the Bournemouth Echo. Wimborne will now travel to Feniton in the third qualifying round. 

Winchester City Flyers 2-2 (p5-4) Sholing
Sholing fought back from behind twice before eventually going out on penalties. Libby WIlkinson put Flyers in front after 13 minutes only for Ella Wilson to equalise 20 minutes later. The games then stayed level until the 80th minute when Annie Northwood must have thought she'd won it for City. Sophie Elmes had other ideas, squaring it up again with a minute of normal time remaining, before City went through 5-4 from the spot. Read the match report on the City web site, listen to Emma Pearmine's post match thoughts and check out the match photos on the City web site.
City will entertain Yeovil Town in the 3rd Qualifying Round.

​Badshot Lea v Beaconsfield Town
After their morale-boosting FA Cup victory at the weekend, the Baggies go back to the task of trying to find a first league point of the season. However, standing in their way is a rejuvenated Rams side who, after losing their opening game heavily, have stormed back to win their next three games.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Southampton Women v Reading FC Community Trust
The Sirens are now unbeaten in their opening three games and have made progress in the FA Cup. Reading also won their FA Cup tie at the weekend (Lemons Squeezed Out By Royals) and only sit a point behind Southampton in the league.
Redbridge Community School,  Cuckmere Ln, SO16 9RJ

Winchester City Flyers v Fleet Town
Flyers have won one and lost one in the league so far. They also progressed in the cup after seeing off Sholing in a penalty shootout. Fleet's start has not been as good. Two defeats in the league, both at home, followed by a cup exit, also at home. They'll be glad to be on the road, where they have a 100% record so far, having won their only away day, 3-2 at Sholing.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO50 7SU

Woodley United v AFC Portchester
It's been far from an ideal start for Woodley so far, losing their opening league game at Sholing and being knocked out of the FA Cup by Harpenden. Portchy, meanwhile, have won two of three league games and progressed in the cup. They also have recent history on their side, having done the double over United last season, including a 2-1 win at Bulmershe Pavilion towards the end of the campaign.

Wycombe Wanderers v Sholing
Wanderers have started the season in sparkling form. Four consecutive wins in all competitions with 31 goals scored and three conceded. It's a tough test for Sholing who have won one and lost two in the league so far. Last season Wycombe won the corresponding fixture 5-1 after the teams had drawn 0-0 in the reverse fixture.
18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

​Abingdon United Development v Denham United
The current top two in the North going head to head. Abingdon sit top of the table, three points clear but Denham have a game in hand. Both have 100% records, so something has to give on Sunday. They've scored 35 goals between them in five league games, so this will probably be either be a 10 goal thriller or nil-nil.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Farnborough v Slough Town
Neither side has registered a win yet, although to be fair, Farnborough have only played one league game. Borough showed some spirit in only losing 3-2 to Premier League Oxford City in the cup last weekend. Slough picked up their second point of the season with a very late equaliser at Chesham, showing that they too have plenty of fight and keep going to the end.
The Easy As HGV Stadium, Farnborough, GU14 8UD

Kidlington Youth v Chesham United Development
Neither of these teams has made the start they would have wanted. Chesham have a single point, earned last Sunday, from four games. Kidlington sit bottom having lost both league games and being knocked out of the cup by Ashridge Park on Sunday. The Greens won both meetings last season, 3-1 in this fixture and 1-0 at Chiltern Hills Academy.
Yarnton Road, Kidlington, OX5 1AT

Milton United v Tilehurst Panthers
Milton have not yet played a league game and lost their only match so far, 7-0 at Finchampstead. Panthers have won one and lost one in the league and progressed in the cup with a 2-1 defeat of Oxford City Development. Last season Tilehurst did the double over Milton, winning 2-1 on both occasions.
Milton Heights, Abingdon OX14 4XB

Oxford City Development v Larkspur Rovers
Won two, lost two is the record boasted by City. They sit fifth in the table, level on points with Rovers. However, Larkspur, in third, have won both of their league outings so far, 5-2 at Chesham and 4-1 at home to Kidlington. With the top two playing each other, the teams in the pack may have a chance to make up some ground.
Venue: Oxford City Women & Girls Development

Penn & Tylers Green v Ascot United Reserves
Another team with a 100% record after two games is Penn & Tylers Green. They too progressed in the FA Cup, giving that 100% record across all competitions so far. Ascot have drawn one and lost one of their league games. Last season both games ended in home wins. Penn winning this fixture 1-0 and Ascot winning 2-0 at The Racecourse.
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

​AFC Stoneham v Nursling & Shirley
You couldn't get two more opposing records than these two so far this season. Stoneham have a 100% record across all competitions, including two league victories over Bournemouth Sports Reserves and AFC Varsity. Nursling & Shirley have lost all three of their games, two in the league and one in the FA Cup. They are also looking for their first goal of the season. The Purps won this fixture 8-2 last season but had to come from behind to do so.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Bournemouth Sports Reserves v AFC Varsity
Sports currently sit top of the league albeit having played two more games than anyone else. They'll be looking to consolidate their position against a Varsity side who have won one, lost one in the league. However, Varsity won the corresponding fixture last season, with an early Kayleigh Rogers goal enough to separate the side.
Chapel Gate, East Parley, BH23 6BL

Bursledon v Wimborne Town
Both of these sides have played two and lost two in the league, although both have progressed in the FA Cup at the expense of other teams in the South Division. The Dons have also yet to find the net in the league. No such problem for Wimborne, who have managed to score eight goals in two games without even picking up a draw. Last season the sides fought out a 1-1 draw in this fixture. BotP was there to see it. (These Two Are Keepers)
Priory Park, SO32 1SQ

Farnham Town v Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Two of the new sides in the division, who have both hit the ground running this season. Bemerton have won both of their opening two league games, at home to Bursledon and away at Wimborne. Farnham have played only one league game, a 4-0 win at Havant & Waterlooville. They've also progressed in the cup by beating AFC Varsity and then, last Sunday, winning 6-1 at Premier League Fleet Town.
Memorial Ground, Farnham, GU9 7DY

Guernsey v Andover New Street
With eighteen goals scored across their first two league games, ten of which Guernsey have notched, entertainment is certainly the name of the game. New Street become the second team to visit the unbeaten Green Lionesses, following a mixed start themselves. They opened with two 5-0 away wins at Nursling and Pagham, in the FA Cup, but then lost at home to Havant in the league and went out of the cup at Bursledon.
Victoria Avenue, Guernsey GY2 4BB

Havant & Waterlooville v Shaftesbury
Havant lost their opening league encounter to Farnham, but then won at Andover in their next game. In between they beat Bognor Regis in the FA Cup, but then went out to Premier League AFC Portchester on Sunday. Shaftesbury lost 3-0 at Varsity in their opening league game before losing to Wimborne on penalties in the FA Cup.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

This weekend was the second qualifying round of the Women's FA Cup. The choice of games involving Southern Region teams was vast and I would have loved to have been at all of them. However, I finally decided on the clash between newly-promoted South East Counties Surrey Premier side, Manorcroft United, and the new-look Reading side from the Southern Region Premier. Manorcroft were entering the FA Cup for the first time and after being awarded a bye in the previous round, this was to be their first ever FA Cup tie. United won the Surrey Division One title last season with a 100% record, although they did lose their opening Premier League game 9-0 to last season's runners-up Carshalton Athletic. Something of a baptism of fire. Not a bad draw for their first ever FA Cup game either. Don't forget that Reading were a WSL team until 2023.
The Royals effectively started from the ground up last season and, after a difficult start, were hitting some form towards the end of the season. They've made wholesale changes to the playing staff again over the summer. They started their league campaign with 4-1 defeat of Badshot lea but then fell 2-1 to a rejuvenated Beaconsfield side in their second game. The two step difference in favour of Reading made them clear favourites.

​The early encounters, whilst not producing any serious efforts at either end, showed that Manorcroft were certainly not here just to make up the numbers. In fact, they settled much quicker than Reading, who struggled to get going in the first few minutes. However, as we headed towards 15 minutes, the visitors did start to pick up the pace and were the first to seriously threaten when one of their many summer signings, Keziah Banduka who joined with her twin sister Keren from Ascot United, played in Assia Fatri who dragged her shot wide of Gemma Taylor's goal.
Four minutes later Reading took the lead and it was a goal made and scored by two more summer editions, both coming in from Maidenhead United. Right winger Ellie Manners was sent clear before sending over a low cross that Tia Johnson finished well. 0-1 A minute later the maidenhead connection paid off again. This time today's captain Mia Parker, also signed from The Magpies, played in Ellie Manners who slotted low past Taylor. 0-2
From looking a little shaky to being two goals in front in the space of just over a minute, Reading were showing the Premier League credentials and the home side were left rocking a little. It could have been worse too. Midway through the half, Mollie Dench had the ball in the United net again, only for an offside flag to chalk it off. Home goalkeeper Gemma Taylor then made a good save from the same player to keep the score at two.
Credit to The Lemons though, they dug in and around the half-hour mark were very unlucky not to pull a goal back. Sophie Butler made a good stop from Grace Farmer and, in the ensuing scramble, both Farmer and last season's top scorer Millie Dufton had efforts block, all amidst some claims for a handball in the melee, before the ball was cleared for a corner.
Dufton's running from midfield combined with Farmer's willingness to pull the Reading defence around, was causing some problems, but the Royals stood firm, marshalled by centre-half Sarah Thompson, yet another signing from Maidenhead.
Reading did come close once more before the break when Johnson put Manners in the clear again, but this time the winger couldn't find the target.

HT Manorcroft United 0 Reading 2. Two goals in two minutes put Reading in charge. However, Manorcroft showed enough to display that they could pose a threat if The Royals took their foot off the pedal.

​The second half, with Reading going down the slight slope, was always going to be a challenge for the home side. Despite giving a good account of themselves in the first half, they had spent a fair amount of time chasing the ball, so you'd expect them to begin running out of steam at some point.
Reading, for their part, were showing no sign of sitting back on their laurels. They came close to extending their eld just before the hour when Tia Johnson fired just over. The same player then had the ball in the net only for the assistant's flag to once again cut short the celebrations. Gemma Taylor then pulled off a superb diving save to thwart Ellie Manners, before Natalie Cowell also came close for Reading.
It wasn't quite one-way traffic, but Reading were certainly stamping their authority more in the second half. Manorcroft were not making it easy for them by any means though, still snapping into tackles and fighting for every loose ball.
However, on 73 minutes, Reading effectively sealed their progress when Lauren Knight sent substitute Keren Banduka clear. She steadied herself before slipping the ball under Taylor. 0-3. The tie was now decided but Manorcroft were not going to go out with a whimper. They continued to defend solidly and bravely. Gemma Taylor, at one point, threw herself into a sea of feet to smother a loose ball in the 6-yard box, but they couldn't hold Reading out completely. With six minutes to go Fatri slipped in Keren Banduka on the right and her ball across the face of goal was tapped in by Natalie Cowell. 0-4. Four minutes later it was five when Cowell added her second, heading in from Johnson's left-wing cross. 0-5.

FT Manorcroft United 0 Reading 5. In the end it turned out to be a fairly comfortable win for Reading. However, that was not the tale of the first half in particular. Manorcroft started the stronger and also had other patches where they could have got back into the game. Reading took full control in the second half but, to their credit, the Lemons never gave up and were still chasing down balls late into the game, even when five goals down.
Next weekend both sides are back in league action. Manorcroft make the journey to Croydon whilst Reading on the South coast as they visit Southampton Women

Manorcroft United: 1.Taylor, 2.Stewart, 18.Smithers, 6.Jennings, 5.Lyne, 9.Wilson(c), 21.Steer, 14.Reid, 17.Palmer, 22.Farmer, 23.Dufton. Subs: 3.Gough, 4.Benford, 24.Edwards, 10.Austin, Bearne
Reading: 1.Butler, 2.Rowden, 4.Kez.Banduka, 5.Thompson, 7.Manners, 10.Fatri, 12.Hayes, 18.Johnson, 19.Parker, 21.Dench, 22.King. Subs: 3.Whitburn, 6.Poole, 8.Knight, 9.Cowell, 11.Ker.Banduka, 17.Lane, 20.Bolitho

​The Ground
Manorcroft United Football Club is based at Coopers Hill just to the north of Englefield Green and less than a mile from Runnymede water-meadow where the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215. There's a pay and display car park directly in front of the club where the first three hours are free, so time it right and you won't have to pay to park. I believe the club also opens up some land between the football club and tennis club for parking, although I didn't make us of it today. Entrance to the ground is through the main two-storey building that houses changing facilities and, on the top floor, the bar. This area also has a balcony with views over the multiple pitches. Directly in front of the clubhouse there are a number of small sided pitches. The main pitch lies beyond the small-sided pitches and sits alongside another pitch that looked to be a junior 11-a-side setup. Both of these purpose-bult pitches have dugouts on the outer sides and are surrounded by barriers, with the main pitch also having plenty of advertising hoardings over the barrier fences. This means that both pitches are enclosed on three sides with the adjoining sides open to each other. The pitches slope slightly away from the clubhouse end, but the playing surface looked to be in pretty good condition.
I'm not sure if it was the occasion encouraging more of the local community to the ground today, but it had a real family feel to it. There were kids of all ages wearing Manorcroft shirts, some of whom had probably been paying earlier in the day and had come to watch the ladies. A really nice ground that's well worth a visit.

Ground Number: 461
Att: 
Entrance: £5.00
Programme: N/A

Eight out of the twelve games that survived the weather ended in away wins this Sunday, that included every game in the South.
In the Premier League Wycombe won again and, with second place Portchester beaten at home by Beaconsfield, they moved three clear at the top. Abingdon also made it three from three and have now scored 17 goals already.  Bemerton Heath Harlequins top the Southern section after they also won on the road at Wimborne.
This weekend the FA Cup rolls back into town, with the SoReg Premier League sides taking their place in the competition.

​AFC Portchester 1-2 Beaconsfield Town
The Rams made it two on the bounce despite coming from behind and  having to play two-thirds of the game with outfield player Ashleigh Harte in goal, after Sophie Cheadle picked up an injury. Mia Adaway put Portchy in front before the break. However, Katie Riddington kept up her record of scoring in every game so far this season with a penalty. Mia Thompson scored the winner for The Rams with a superb free-kick. Watch both Rams goals on the Beaconsfield web site.

Sholing 2-3 Fleet Town
Fleet bounced back brilliantly from last week's heavy defeat to Wycombe, despite going behind to Katie Short's 12th minute goal. Fleet were 2-1 up at the break which is how it stayed until added time when Sholing equalised through Sophie Lee, only for Fleet to go straight up the other end to win it. Fleet's goals coming from Layla Drury, Lily Martin and Avery Tolley.

Southampton Women P-P Woodley United

Winchester City Flyers 4-1 Badshot Lea
Emma Whitlock's ninth minute opener for Flyers was the only goal of the first-half. However, after Gemma Luke levelled the scores five minutes in the second period, goals from Scarlet Kirby, Charlie Snelling and a last minute Libby Wilkinson strike, saw Winchester take all three points. Read the match report on the Flyers web site and listen Emma Pearmine's after match thoughts.

Wycombe Wanderers 3-0 Oxford City
A third straight win for The Chairgirls which sees them draw clear at the top of the table. Catherine Beaver scored for the first timer this season, with the other two goals coming from Chloe Melton, her seventh, and Kayla Potter, her fifth. Watch all the goals here.

​Abingdon United Development 6-1 Chesham United Development
The relentless machine that is Abingdon United Development rolled on at The Northcourt. Three wins from three and at least six scored in every game so far. Chloe Forrester helped herself to two goals with April England, Beth Hawtin, Ellie Own and Sasha Scott getting the others. Their 19 goals have been spread across 10 players so far. Marcia Itani grabbed a consolation for Chesham in the 79th minute.

Denham United 6-1 Slough Town
With two wins from their two league games, plus their FA Cup victory over Barton Rovers, Denham sit second in the table with a 100% record. They saw off local rivals Slough with a hat-trick from Liana Norwood, two from Niamh Cashin and another Pia Davis goal. Sajunae Turner hit the consolation for The Rebels.

Farnborough 1-3 Penn & Tylers Green
It's also two from two for Penn after they brought back the points from Hampshire. Goals from Ellie Lovelock, Daisy-Leigh Thompson and Tara Woodward secure the win for Penn. Lily Stride scored for Farnborough midway through the first half.

Kidlington Youth 2-4 Oxford City Development
Despite two goals from Courtney Sumner, Kidlington fell to their second defeat of the season at home to a rejuvenated City Development team. Two goals from Megan Fillary and one each from Olivia Day and Molly Jenkins was enough for The Hoops, despite losing Poppy Ellis to a late red card.

Larkspur Rovers P-P Milton United

Tilehurst Panthers P-P Ascot United Reserves

​AFC Varsity 0-3 AFC Stoneham
Zoe Bache made it four goals in three games since joining the Purps in the summer. Praise Petrache and Emma Simpson added the other two goals as Stoneham lifted themselves to second in the table, behind Bemerton on goal difference. Varsity sit in mid-table, one of many teams on three points.

Andover New Street 0-3 Havant & Waterlooville
Having lost their opening league game at home, The Hawks returned to winning league form with a three goal haul at Andover. Captain Emma-Jane May led the way with two goals. Chelsie Hay added her third of the season, sewing up three points for the visitors. Watch all three goals courtesy of The Hawks.

Bursledon 0-2 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Sports made it a symmetrical won one, drawn one, lost one as they added to Bursledon's slow start. The Dons, who lost their league opener at Bemerton, were undone by two second half goals from Isobel Weatherly and Kiera De Angelis.

Farnham Town P-P Guernsey

Shaftesbury P-P Nursling & Shirley

Wimborne Town 3-6 Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Wimborne's opening two league games have now seen a total of 21 goals but the Magpies are still looking for their first point after losing this nine-goal thriller. It started well for the home team with Sheree Bell-Jack (watch the first one here) scoring twice inside the opening 12 minutes. Hollie Keating pulled one back a minute later and then Kyra Ward levelled the scores, only for Ellie Chaffe to put Town back in front just past the half-hour. Not to be deterred, Imogen Brady had Harlequins level again before the break. Emma Hutton then put the visitors ahead soon after half-time and Brady grabbed a second just past the hour. The scoring was rounded off by Leanne Harvey as Bemerton remained retained their 100% start.

​Abingdon United Development v Milton United
Milton are yet to begin their league campaign and a trip to high-flying, free-scoring, Abingdon is probably not the best way to get the campaign under way. Recent history is also not on the side of the visitors who lost 4-0 in this fixture last season. In fact, Abingdon did the double after winning the reverse fixture 7-5.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Ascot United Reserves v Larkspur Rovers
Rovers have started the season in great form, winning both of their league outings so far, scoring nine goals into the bargain. Ascot's start has been a little  or sluggish. After drawing their opener at home to Slough, they came up against a flying Abingdon outfit last time out. Both teams saw their games postponed last weekend, so will be fresh for this one.
Racecourse Ground, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Chesham United Development v Slough Town
Both of these teams, having played three each, are still looking for their first win of the season. Chesham are yet to take a point at all, whereas Slough did get a draw at Ascot on the opening day. Last season, Slough won this fixture 4-0 with the reverse at Arbor Park ended in a goalless draw.
Chiltern Hills Academy,  Chesham HP5 2RG

Tilehurst Panthers v Oxford City Development
Panthers lost at home to Abingdon in their opening game, whilst City lost at Denham. Since then, Tilehurst have not played a game, whereas Oxford have bounced back with two consecutive wins, 2-0 at Slough and 4-2 at Kidlington.
Scours Lane, Tilehurst, RG30 6AY

​Nursling & Shirley v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Last season, as QK Ladies, The Bees' only league victory came with 3-0 defeat of Sports. This season Nursling & Shirley began the league campaign with defeat to Andover New Street. Bournemouth also lost their opener, 2-1 at Stoneham, but have bounced back with a 3-3 draw at home to Guernsey followed by a 2-0 win at Bursledon last weekend.
The Hive, Redbridge Lane, Southampton SO16 0XN

​AFC Stoneham v Bemerton Heath Harlequins
The top two in Division One South, both with 100% records, go head to head in the FA Cup. Both had good wins to reach this stage. Harlequins putting out Dorset League side Bournemouth Poppies, 4-2 and Stoneham clocking up 16 goals at home to Sussex side Hassocks.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Badshot Lea v Basingstoke Town
Hampshire Division 1 side Basingstoke came from behind to win their opening league encounter and currently sit second in the table. The new look Baggies side is still trying to find its feet and are yet to pick up a league point. They'll be looking for some cup success to boost confidence and help kickstart their season.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Bursledon v Andover New Street
After two straight league defeats, Bursledon will be looking forward to some light cup relief. They put out United Services Portsmouth in the last round, scoring twice in each half. New Street have won one and lost one in the league. However, they had a very convincing 5-0 win at Pagham in the Preliminary Round of the cup.
Toynbee School, Eastleigh SO53 2PL

Denham United v New Bradwell St Peter
Two from two i the league and convincing 11-3 winners in the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup, Denham have had the dream start to the season, scoring 26 goals in three matches. East Midlands Division One South side New Bradwell St Peter have only played once so far this season. That was a 6-1 thrashing of Thrapston in the league, in which Cara Brooker hit a hat-trick.
The Den, Oxford Road, Denham, UB9 4DW

Farnborough v Oxford City
A 2-0 defeat of Brackley Town saw Farnborough safely through to this round of the cup. However, they lost 3-1 at home to Penn in their opening league encounter. They now face a very tough game against Premier League Oxford City. The Hoops have started the season by winning one, drawing one and losing one in their opening three league matches.
The Easy As HGV Stadium, Farnborough, GU14 8UD

Finchampstead v Penn & Tylers Green
A tough test for Thames Valley side Finchampstead but, with the start they've made, they'll be up for it, having already put out Penn's fellow Division One North side, Milton United in the previous round. They also won their opening league game, at Yateley United, 8-0. So, two games played, 15 scored and none conceded. Penn also have a 100% record after three games, winning away in both league outings as well as putting 15 past Caversham in the previous round.
Finchampstead Memorial Ground, Finchampstead, RG40 4JU

Fleet Town v Farnham Town
Last year's Division One South winners against a team who certainly have aspirations to follow in Fleet's footsteps. Farnham won 4-0 at Havant on the opening day, announcing their intent. They then put nine past AFC Varsity in the last round of the cup. Fleet lost their opening two Premier League encounters before finding their feet on Sunday with superb away win at Sholing.
Crookham Road, Fleet GU51 5FA

Harpenden Town v Woodley United
This will be Harpenden's seventh game of the season already. The Eastern Region Premier League side have won two and lost four in the league after winning promotion last season. United have played just a single game so far, losing 5-1 at Sholing in their opening league encounter. Their match at Southampton last weekend was postponed.
Amenbury Lane, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2EF

Havant & Waterlooville v AFC Portchester
It's been two seasons since these two sides fought it out for promotion. Portchy won that tussle and both games that season, 5-0 at home and an away walkover in the reverse fixture after the title race had already been settled.
Portchester started well, with two league wins, but did go down 2-1 at home to Beaconsfield at the weekend. The Hawks, who beat Bognor Regis in the previous round, won 3-0 at Andover last Sunday.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

Kidlington Youth v Ashridge Park
Ashridge started their league season with a 4-0 defeat of Ruislip Rangers, so it's a matter of huge coincidence that they now face Kidlington in the FA Cup. The Greens progressed to this round by also defeating Ruislip Rangers by the same score line.
Yarnton Road, Kidlington, OX5 1AT

Manorcroft United v Reading
A home walkover granted by Tilehurst Panthers sees South East Counties Surrey Premier side Manorcroft United face up to Premier League Reading. United lost their opening league game 9-0. Not the ideal preparation for facing a major challenge. Reading have won one and lost one of their opening two league games.
Coopers Hill Recreation Ground,  Englefield Green, Egham, Surrey TW20 0JX

Southampton Women v Steyning Town
A win and a draw for The Sirens at the start of their league campaign. They now face up to London & South East Division One South side Steyning Town, who put out Shanklin on penalties in the previous round. They've also won three of their four opening league games, and currently sit in second place.
Test Park Sports Ground, Southampton, SO16 9QZ

St Albans City v Beaconsfield Town
Eastern Region Premier side St Albans are already six games into the league season. With two wins, two draws and two defeats, it's fair to say it's been a mixed start for them. However, they are joint top scorers in the league and have already scored 13 in four home games. Beaconsfield have found some form, after losing their opening game they have won their last two.
Clarence Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 4NF

Wallingford & Crowmarsh v Wycombe Wanderers
A daunting task for Thames Valley outfit Wallingford & Crowmarsh as they welcome the current Premier League leaders. Wallingford lost their opening league game 1-0 at Caversham United after progressing to this stage of the cup with a 4-1 win at Yateley United. Wanderers have a 100% record so far, scoring 21 goals and conceding just two.
Hithercroft Road, Wallingford OX10 9EB

Wimborne Town v Shaftesbury
It's not been too long since these two sides were battling it out in the Dorset League. Now they face each other in the FA Cup as members of the Southern Region Division One South. Both will be happy to get a break from league action, where neither has picked up a point yet. Wimborne got to this stage with a 3-0 win at Bournemouth Manor. Shaftesbury won 3-1 at home to Dorchester Town.
Wyatt Homes Stadium,  Wimborne BH21 2FU

Winchester City Flyers v Sholing
An all Premier League tie between two sides who are locked together on three points in mid-table. Last season they met three times, two in the league and once in the League Cup. Flyers came out on top in all three, winning 3-0 and 2-1 in the league, separated by a 3-1 cup win at Sholing.
​Hiller Way, Winchester SO50 7SU

The FA Cup kicked off on Sunday with many SoReg teams in Preliminary Round action. Only four of the sixteen teams that were entered at this stage failed to progress. Three teams clocked up double figures and a toal of 108 goals were scored in games involving SoReg teams. In the premier League, Wycombe and Portchester are the only teams with a 100% record. Abingdon lead the way in the North and Guernsey are top of the South.

​Badshot Lea 0-3 AFC Portchester
Goalless at the break, Portchester finally broke the deadlock six minutes into the second half through Lauren Aitken. Gemma Hillier added a second after 69 minutes before Aitken sealed the three points five minutes later. Two in two for Portchester, who sit in second spot on goal difference. 

Beaconsfield Town 2-1 Reading FC Community Trust
Another game that was goalless at half-time. Henna Hussain then put the hosts in front on the hour and only for Mia Parker to equalise nine minutes later. However, The Rams earned their first Premier League points when Katie Riddington popped up with the winner five minutes before the end. Watch the post match interview with Brian Harris.

Fleet Town 1-11 Wycombe Wanderers
Wanderers are absolutely flying at the start of this season, following up their 7-1 opening day victory with a crushing 11-1 win at Fleet. Chloe Melton hit her second hat-trick in as many games, but even she was outgunned on this occasion as Kayla Potter hit four goals. Anisha Hill added two more with Laura Hennessey and Jessica Watkins also on the mark. Zoe Luff scored the consolation for Fleet, who have yet to find their feet in the top flight.

Sholing 5-1 Woodley United
The Boatwomen took just over half an hour to break the deadlock in this game before Sophie Lee scored. Phoebe Fitzgerald then added a second before half-time. Sophie Lee added her fourth of the season just after the restart with Claudia Weston making it 4-0 with 22 minutes to go. Woodley did get a goal back through a penalty, but Fitzgerald restored the four goal lead three minutes before time.

Southampton Women 4-4 Oxford City
Both teams had to come from behind, Oxford twice, before settling for a point apiece in this topsy-turvy game. Yazmin Edwards had City in front less than a minute into the game, but goals from Eliska Lynn and Izzy Crooks saw The Sirens lead midway through the first half. Ellie White then drew the Hoops level again before Wright restored the home lead before the break. immediately after half-time, Chloe Tedman made it 4-2. With 20 minutes remaining Edwards got her second to make it 4-3, then with 6 minutes remaining an own goal levelled the scores again. Two minutes into added time Edwards completed an eventful afternoon by getting herself a straight red.
Read the Sirens match report.

​Ascot United Reserves 1-6 Abingdon United Development
This game was sealed before half-time with Abingdon taking a four goal lead into the break. Captain Beth Hawtin led by example, scoring twice. Charlotte Bigmore, April England, Chloe Forrester and Frida Ives were the other goal scorers for Abingdon. Sianna Hegarty hit Ascot's consolation just after the hour.

Chesham United Development 2-5 Larkspur Rovers
Larkspur made it two out of two in the league as they saw off Chesham with a five-star display. However, they had to come from behind after Bo Edwards put United in front after 10 minutes. Shenice Dyer scored two, on in each half, with the other goals coming from Calleigh Wright, Kalina Georgieva and Savana Fearon. Ajla Tang hit a late consolation for Chesham.

Slough Town 0-2 Oxford City Development
City bounced back from their heavy opening day defeat to see off Slough Town on their own patch. Goals from Ava Dact and Olivia Day were enough to send the Hoops home with the points.

​Bournemouth Sports Reserves 3-3 Guernsey
Guernsey's first ever away league game saw them earn a point that took them to the top of the table, albeit having played a game more than most. Sports took the lead early on in the game through Isobel Weatherly, who then added a second goal on 20 minutes. Aimee Ogier then pulled one back from Guernsey only for Weatherly to complete her hat-trick just after the half-hour. Calleigh Hedley, who scored six last week, made it 3-2 before the break. Shortly after half-time Hedley equalised for Guernsey, bringing a close to the scoring. Read the match report on the Guernsey website.

​AFC Stoneham 16-0 Hassocks
The Purps showed no mercy as they cruised through to the next round of the FA Cup with a clinical display of finishing against Hassocks. Mia House helped herself to four goals and there were hat-tricks for Lucy Bicknell, Zoe Bache and Megan Newton. Emma Simpson grabbed a brace and captain Mia Flood also got on the score sheet. You can watch all of the goals on the Stoneham Facebook page. The Purps will now face Bemerton Heath Harlequins at home in the next round.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 4-2 Bournemouth Poppies
Three goals in the opening twenty minutes went a long way to ensuring safe passage for Harlequins. Hollie Keating set them on their way in the 6th minute. Imogen Brady and Caitlin Lower then added two more in quick succession. Poppies put up a good fight against higher ranked opposition with Maddy Phillips scoring twice for the visitors. Ellie Hayward added the icing on the cake with fifteen minutes remaining.  Bemerton will now face a trip to Stoneham in the next round.

Bournemouth Manor 0-3 Wimborne Town
The Magpies booked themselves a home tie against Shaftesbury after a solid win on the road. Jessica Selby and Amiya Williams put them two up at the break with goals in the final 5 minutes of the half. Just past the hour Lucy Roberts added a third.

Bursledon 4-1 United Services Portsmouth
Isobel Pouncy and player of the match Nicola Curtis scored for The Dons in the first half. Eleanor Fitzgerald and Charlet Norman-Tasker settled the scoring in the second half, earning Bursledon a chance to take on Andover New Street in the next round.

Denham United 11-3 Barton Rovers
Free-scoring Denham, fresh from scoring nine in their opening league game, rattled in eleven against Barton Rovers to set up a home tie with New Bradwell St Peter. Both Pia Davis and Niamh Cashion helped themselves to hat-tricks, Chelsea Rose Keary got herself to two goals whilst Annie Hewitt, Daisy Baranowkski and Sofia Harris scored one each. Jessica Biggestaff, Sophie Hindley and former Kidlington player Isabelle Thacker, scored for Rovers.

Farnborough 2-0 Brackley Town
Two quickfire goals from Ellie Staley just past half-time sent Farnborough through at the expense of East Midlands side Brackley Town. Borough now face a the challenge of Premier League Oxford City at home in the next round.

Farnham Town 9-1 AFC Varsity
Iesha Swaby helped herself to another four goal haul on Sunday as Farnham ran riot in the cup. Rebecca Price scored twice with Francesca Thornton, Olivia Stuart and Rachael Manley all getting on the score sheet. Watch all of the goals on the Farnham Town YouTube channelwww.youtube.com/watch?v=o3SM8HvT0hI&feature=youtu.be. Farnham will travel to Fleet Town in the next round.

Finchampstead 7-0 Milton United
Lauren Smaje scored the first two and last two goals as Finchampstead ran out 7-0 winners against higher-ranked opposition in Milton United. Sandwiched between Smaje's four goals, Ruby Huggins, Lauren Chennells and Amelia Bowles added a goal apiece for the Thames Valley outfit. Finch now take on Penn & Tylers Green in the next round.

Havant & Waterlooville 5-3 Bognor Regis Town
A lively game was all-square at the break. Chelsie Hay opened the scoring for Havant but goals from Loulou Robson and Rhiannon Hambleton put the Rockettes 2-1 up the first half running down. Phoebe Hamilton sent the teams in all-square in the 8th minute of first-half added time. The Hawks then went 3-2 ahead through Calla Swain in the first minute of the second period before Millie Carter levelled the scores again. Two more goals for Havant from Chelsie Hay and Emily Wernham sent them through to face a local derby with AFC Portchester in the next round. You can read the match report in The Sussex Express and view some great photos courtesy of Lyn & Trev.

Kidlington Youth 4-0 Ruislip Rangers 
Julia Rushmere, signed from Haddenham in the summer, opened her Greens tally with two goals. Emily Keal and Abigail Haynes scored Kidlington's other two goals as they earned themselves a home tie with Ashridge Park in the next round. Check out the excellent match action photos from Duncan Eames.

Manorcroft United H-W Tilehurst Panthers 
United will now face a tasty looking, but tough, home local derby with Southern Region Premier side Reading in the next round.

Pagham 0-5 Andover New Street
New Street returned from Sussex with a win and a trip to Bursledon to look forward to, after putting five unanswered past Pagham. Violet Alen scored twice, as did Kyle-Mae Hayes. Summer Williams was also on the mark. You can read about the match on the Love Andover site.

Penn & Tylers Green 15-0 Caversham United
After dropping back to the Thames Valley League The Goats are in the process of rebuilding their squad. This was clearly a heavy defeat but, as reported by Chairman Paul Gutteridge, they only had five players signed the week before this game, so getting a team together was a success in itself. Their plight was not helped by a very difficult draw. Penn & Tylers Green away is going to be a tough ask for any team this season. For Penn, Ellie Lovelock hit four goals and there were hat-tricks for Tara Woodward and Rebecca Stopforth. New signing from Wycombe, Shannon Read, was on the mark as too were Holly Wyncoll, Ammara Qureshi and Rachel Southby. Penn can now plan for a trip to Finchampstead.

Nursling & Shirley 0-9 Leatherhead 
Leatherhead proved to be too strong for Nursling & Shirley, hitting nine goals and earning a trip to Aylesford in the next round. Both Megan Button and Kacie-May Harlow scored hat-tricks with Cassie Brown, Chloe Gibney and Jessica Thomas notching one each.

Shaftesbury 3-1 Dorchester Town
Nicola Castle scored a goal in each half and Poppy Failes added a third as Shaftesbury defeated their Dorset neighbours. The win earns them another Dorset duel as they travel to Wimborne Town in the next round.

​AFC Portchester v Beaconsfield Town
After picking up their first Premier League points in the 2-1 home victory over Reading, Beaconsfield travel South to take on a Portchester side who have begun with the two straight victories, scoring three in both games.
Wicor Recreation Ground, Cranleigh Road, Fareham, Hampshire PO16 9DP

Sholing v Fleet Town
It's been a difficult welcome to life at the top table for Fleet. Two home defeats and 15 goals conceded has left them bottom of the table. Sholing have started with a defeat and a win but must be overjoyed with summer signing Sophie Lee, who has scored twice in both games played.
The Mortgage Decisions Stadium, Portsmouth Road, Sholing, SO19 9PW

Southampton Women v Woodley United
Sirens fought out an incredible 4-4 draw with Oxford at the weekend, having been two goals ahead with twenty minutes remaining. Woodley have only played one game so far, a 5-1 defeat to Sholing, and now face another trip to Southampton.
Test Park Sports Ground, Southampton, SO16 9QZ

Winchester City Flyers v Badshot Lea
Both teams have yet to register a point this season, but Flyers have only played one game, a 3-2 defeat at Portchester. The Baggies also lost to Portchy and went down 4-1 at Reading on the opening day. Both sides will be very  keen to kickstart their season.
Hiller Way, Winchester SO50 7SU

Wycombe Wanderers v Oxford City
After successive away wins, top of the table Wanderers get to start their home league campaign against unbeaten City. The Chairgirls have already scored 18 goals this season. New signing Chloe Melton has hit a hat-trick in both of her opening two games for the club. Last season's top scorer Kayla Potter has also already put five goals on the chart. A daunting prospect for a City side who saw their top scorer, Yasmin Edwards, dismissed in added time on Sunday.
18i78 Stadium, Wymers Wood Road, Burnham SL1 8JG

​Abingdon United Development v Chesham United Development
Thirteen goals and just one conceded for Abingdon so far this season. The Yellows go into their first home game full of confidence as they welcome a Chesham side who are yet to pick up a point themselves.
The Northcourt, OX14 1PL

Denham United v Slough Town
United have gone goal crazy so far this season, following their opening day 9-2 defeat of Oxford City Development with an 11-3 thrashing of Barton United in the FA Cup. Slough drew 2-2 with Ascot on the opening day before going down 2-0 at home to Oxford at the weekend.
The Den, Oxford Road, Denham, UB9 4DW

Farnborough v Penn & Tylers Green
Having seen their opening league game postponed, this will be Farnborough's opener in Division One North. They did, however, beat Brackley Town in the FA Cup on Sunday. Penn, meanwhile, opened their league account with a 4-1 win at Chesham and followed it up with a thumping 15-0 defeat of Caversham in the FA Cup.
The Easy As HGV Stadium, Farnborough, GU14 8UD

Kidlington Youth v Oxford City Development
The Antonen Derby as Kidlington's Chloe faces up to Oxford's Sophie. City also have Grace Craven, signed from Kidlington in the summer, in their ranks. Both teams had  victories at the weekend. Kidlington saw off Ruislip in the cup, whilst Oxford rebounded well from day 1 defeat to win at Slough Town
Yarnton Road, Kidlington, OX5 1AT

Larkspur Rovers v Milton United
Rovers have started the season with two straight wins, at home to Kidlington on the opening day and 5-2 at Chesham last Sunday. For Milton this will be their first league game of the season after their opener with Farnborough was postponed. They did, however, go down 7-0 at Thames Valley side Finchampstead in the FA Cup last weekend.
Lord Halsbury Playing Field, Priors Farm Lane, Northolt, UB5 5FE

Tilehurst Panthers v Ascot United Reserves
Both of these teams have already lost heavily at home to Abingdon United Development this season. Panthers went down 7-0 on the opening day whilst Ascot lost 6-1 last weekend, after a 2-2 draw with Slough on day one. Both will be looking to get their respective season going. It took Tilehurst until March to finally win at Scours Lane last season. They won't want to wait that long again.
The Rivermoor, Scours Lane, Reading, RG30 6AY

​AFC Varsity v AFC Stoneham
There were 26 goals in the two games involving these teams last Sunday. Stoneham scored 16 of them in their FA Cup against Hassocks. Unfortunately for Varsity, they were on the receiving end of nine at a rampant Farnham Town. Last season Stoneham won the corresponding fixture 4-0 and, as they also won at home, recent history is firmly on their side. Having said that, Varsity won their opening league game against Shaftesbury and currently sit above Stoneham in the table.
Hatches Farm Sports Ground, Romsey Road, West Wellow, Romsey SO51 6EA

Andover New Street v Havant & Waterlooville
Division newbies, New Street, have opened their season with consecutive 5-0 away wins, at Nursling & Shirley and Pagham in the cup. Not a bad way begin the campaign. Havant lost their opening league match to Farnham but bounced back to take a 5-3 victory n a thrilling FA Cup game against Bognor Regis Town.
Foxcotte Park, Charlton, Andover SP11 0TA

Bursledon v Bournemouth Sports Reserves
These teams met three times last season, winning one each and drawing the other. Bursledon edged the league encounters, winning 5-2 at home and drawing 1-1 at Chapel Gate. However, a 94th minute Anastasia Hnatiw goal saw Sports knock The Dons out of the Chairman's Cup at the Quarter-Final stage.
Toynbee School, Eastleigh SO53 2PL

Farnham Town v Guernsey
This one has the potential to be a cracker. Both teams are unbeaten and both know where the net is. Guernsey currently sit on top of the pile having taken four points from the opening two games. They've also scored ten goals in this two games. They have also conceded eight though. Town are yet to concede in the league and are fresh from a 91 FA Cup victory.
Memorial Ground, Farnham, GU9 7DY

Shaftesbury v Nursling & Shirley
Both lost their opening league games, and neither have managed a league goal yet. However, they had differing FA Cup experiences. Whilst The Bees were going down 9-0 at home to Leatherhead, Shaftesbury won their Dorset derby with Dorchester by 3-1.
Coppice Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8PD

Wimborne Town v Bemerton Heath Harlequins
Harlequins began their Division One South experience with 2-0 home win over Bursledon. They followed that up with their FA Cup defeat of Bournemouth Poppies. Wimborne began with that astonishing 7-5 defeat in the Channel Islands but bounced back to win their FA Cup tie 3-0 at Bournemouth Manor.
Wyatt Homes Stadium, New Cuthbury, 16 Ainsley Road, Wimborne BH21 2FU

Well, what a start to the Southern Region League season! 90 goals scored across 16 games, an average of over 5 goals per games. There was certainly entertainment aplenty across all three divisions, although I suspect some goalkeepers and defenders may want to disagree. Top scorers were Denham United with nine in a game that BotP was there to see (Goal Den Girls). Top aggregate was twelve in the 7-5 game between Guernsey and Wimborne Town. Top individual scorer was also in this game where Calleigh Hedley notched six of  her side's seven goals.
Next weekend many of the Step 6 sides enter the FA Cup. It's always interesting to see how SoReg teams fare against opponents from other leagues.

AFC Portchester 3-2 Winchester City Flyers
A proper ding-dong battle to open the season. Portchy took a two goal lead by half-time thanks to Sarah Butterworth and Millie Bradbury. However, Flyers hit back with two quick-fire goals just past the hour, from Libby Wilkinson (watch here) and Laura da Silva (watch here). Only for Rebecca Barron-Clark to strike in the 89th minute, giving Portchester all three points.

Beaconsfield Town 1-7 Wycombe Wanderers
Welcome to the Premier League. Last season's runners-up and many people's title favourites for this season, Wycombe Wanderers, gave The Rams a harsh introduction to life at the top table. Chloe Melton, recently signed from Woodley United, hit a hat-trick on her competitive debut, backed by goals from Kayla Potter, Jessica Watkins, Jordanne Hoesli-Atkins and Anisha Hill.
Katie Riddington had earlier scored a 60th minute penalty that had briefly brough the hosts back to a 2-1 deficit.

Fleet Town 2-4 Southampton Women
The Sirens got off to a great start in this game. Chloe Ball notched twice and Izzy Crooks added another to give them a 3-0 lead well before half-time. Eliska Lynn added the fourth in the 85th minute. Fleet in their first Premier League game, fought well and gave a good account of themselves, scoring two goal themselves through Dominique Lewis and Avery Tolley.
Read the match report on Southampton Women's web site.

Oxford City 3-2 Sholing
Two goals on debut for Sholing's summer signing from Havant & Waterlooville, Sophie Lee, including the opening goal after 9 minutes and a second just after the break. However, Yasmin Edwards in the first half had levelled things up, and the two Ellie's Walecki and White, the latter coming in the 80th minute, gave the Hoops the points.
Watch match highlights from Oxford City's YouTube channel.

Reading FC Community Trust 4-1 Badshot Lea
Gemma Luke gave the baggies the lead in this game, coring after a quarter of an hour. The lead last only 8 minutes until Tyra Wilson squared it up. By half-time, the Royals were ahead thanks to Poppy Whitburn. The same player than made it 3-1 just before the hour and Georgia Hayes, signed from Tilehurst Panthers, applied the icing in added time.

Ascot United Reserves 2-2 Slough Town
Hannah Summers, with a header, had Slough a goal to the good at the break. However, it looked like Ascot had earned the points after striking twice in the second half. Samantha Sehejpal levelled the scores in the 55th minute before substitute Hollie Weston had them in front. Late drama ensued when debutant Alicia Grinhaff pounced to snatch a point at the death.

Chesham United Development 1-4 Penn & Tylers
Last season's Division One North runners-up, Penn, made a great start to the new season with all three points at Chiltern Hills. Ellie Lovelock scored twice with Ammara Qureshi and Sophie Troth each adding a goal. United did get a consolation, with five minutes to go, through Oana Filip

Denham United 9-2 Oxford City Development
BotP certainly made a good choice for the first live match coverage of the season. A game that saw 11 goals, including both sides scoring from within their own half. Brogan Moore scored one of those goals, and added two others to claim a hat-trick for United. Niamh Cashin and Liana Horwood grabbed two each with the other two goals coming from Amna Butt and Pia Davis. Amelia Davis, from over 50 yards, and Bailee Latimer were the City scorers. You can read the BotP match blog here (Goal Den Girls)

Farnborough P-P Milton United

Larkspur Rovers 4-1 Kidlington Youth
Two goals in each half helped Rovers to a debut day victory  at Priors Farm Lane. Savana Fearon helped herself to a goal in each half, Shenice Dyer and Ellie Wright score the other two for Larkspur. Stalwart striker Courtney Sumner was on the mark for The Greens.

Tilehurst Panthers 0-7 Abingdon United Development
Abingdon, who saw off Premier League Oxford City in the Chairman's Cup Final at the end of last season, took that form into the new season with a comprehensive defeat of Tilehurst at Scours Lane. No surprise that Charlotte Bigmore started the season with two more goals to add to her tally. Captain Beth Hawtin also chimed in, as did Isabel Hughes, Lorena Lopez-Catalan, Chloe Forester and Faith Kingdon.

AFC Stoneham 2-1 Bournemouth Sports Reserves
Pyrena Heath, in only her second ever start for the club, scored twice to help The Purps to an opening day three points against Bournemouth Sports Reserves. Emma Whall did grab a consolation in added time, but Sports returned to Dorset empty-handed.

AFC Varsity 3-0 Shaftesbury
It took Varsity four games to register a league win last season. No such problem this term, as they welcomed newly promoted Shaftesbury to Hatches Farm. All three goals came in the first half. Armiee Akpobire opened the scoring after 15 minutes with last season's top scorer, Kayleigh Rogers, grabbing a quickfire brace on 36 and 40 minutes.

Bemerton Heath Harlequins 2-0 Bursledon
Harlequins began their SoReg adventure with three points at home to The Dons, who were playing a league game without former boss Pete Hamilton for the first time in three season. Nicola Frier put them ahead just before the half-hour, a lead they held onto into the break. With ten minutes remaining Amy Sanger wrapped up the points.

Guernsey 7-5 Wimborne Town
Well, that's how to introduce yourself to a new league. In front of close to 600 spectators, Guernsey started life in the Southern Region League with three points after a 12-goal thriller at Victoria Park. All of that after going a goal down to Grace Batsford's strike in the 10th minute. That's when Calleigh Hedley decided to take over. The striker hit a 9-minute hat-trick to give the hosts a 3-1 lead, before adding her fourth in the 41st minute. Sheree Bell-Jack reduced the deficit to 4-2 before the break. Freya Patton made it 4-3 in the 73rd minute before Hedley added her fifth of the day. Captain Candice Bougourd then scored from the spot, Guernsey's 100th goal in 20 matches and Hedley completed an incredible double hat-trick in the 85th minute, making it 7-3. The game was still not done as Wimborne struck two late goals through Jessica Selby and Brooke Suddaby. And breathe!
You can read the match report on the Guernsey FC web site and watch a post-match interview with Calleigh Hedley.

Havant & Waterlooville 0-4 Farnham Town
Farnham announced themselves in Division One South with a resounding win at last season's high-flyers Havant & Waterlooville. Goals from Francesca Thornton, Iesha Swaby, Rachael Manley and a stunning Echo Barrett free-kick were enough to send Town back home with the points. You can watch match highlights courtesy of the Farnham Town YouTube channel.

Nursling & Shirley 0-5 Andover New Street
Another new team announcing their presence in the league were Andover New Street. Last season's top scorer, Freya Twigg, helped herself to two goals whilst Olivia Payne, Lauren Pearce and Rebecca Screech were also on target for New Street. Both teams now have a week of cup action before resuming their league campaigns on the 14th.

Badshot Lea v AFC Portchester
Portchy opened the season with a 3-2 win over Winchester whilst The Baggies went down 4-1 at Reading.  Both teams will be aware that Portchester won 4-0 both home and away last season, but this is a new look Baggies side, who will be looking to get points on the board as soon as possible. Badshot Lea failed to win a game at home in the league last season, although they did manage a very creditable 3-3 draw with Oxford City when Gemma Luke notched a last minute equaliser.
Westfield Lane, Wrecclesham GU10 4PF

Beaconsfield Town v Reading FC Community Trust
Contrasting starts to the season for these two. Whilst Reading were coming from behind to beat Badshot Lea 4-1, The Rams had a tough opening day, losing 7-1 at home to a very strong Wycombe team. Having gone unbeaten last season, opening day defeat for Beaconsfield was something new, and something they won't want to become habit. It took Reading nine games to get their first points last season, so this term has already been a major improvement.
Holloways Park, Windsor Road, Beaconsfield HP9 2SE

Fleet Town v Wycombe Wanderers
After disposing of one of the newcomers on the opening day, Wycombe travel to last season's Division One South champions Fleet Town. It's a tough opening couple of games for the newcomers who faced relegated Southampton on the opening day and now have to take on one of the title favourites. The Chairgirls, who were already prolific up front added Chloe Melton to the mix over the summer and the striker scored a hat-trick on her league debut.
Crookham Road, Fleet GU51 5FA

Sholing v Woodley United
After sitting out week one, the new-look Woodley side face a trip to the coast for their opening game. Sholing lost to a late Oxford City goal on Sunday but did see new signing Sophie Lee continue the goal-scoring form she showed last season, scoring both goals for Sholing in the 3-2 defeat. With so many of last season's starting eleven leaving the club over the summer, it's going to be interesting to see how the new look United side fare.
The Mortgage Decisions Stadium, Portsmouth Road, Sholing, SO19 9PW

Southampton Women v Oxford City
Both sides won their opening games on Sunday, so hit this one full of confidence. They'll both be expecting to be in and around the top of the table at the end of the season and neither will want to lose this match. The Sirens won two of their last six last season and the good start on Sunday will have bolstered their confidence. City have not lost in the league since February.
Test Park Sports Ground, Southampton, SO16 9QZ

​Ascot United Reserves v Abingdon United Development
Abingdon ended last season strongly and have started in the same mould this season, with a 7-0 win at Tilehurst on Sunday. Meanwhile, Ascot came from a goal down to lead 2-1 before being pegged back very late on by Slough Town. Both games last season ended in home wins, 1-0 for Abingdon at The Northcourt and 3-1 for Ascot at The Racecourse
Racecourse Ground, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LJ

Chesham United Development v Larkspur Rovers
Exact opposite results for these two on opening day. Rovers won 4-1 against Kidlington whilst Chesham fell by the same score line to Penn & Tylers Green. Chesham lost all ten league games at Chiltern Hills last season. They'll want to put that right as soon as possible. Rovers, meanwhile, did not lose a league game on their travels last season.
Chiltern Hills Academy,  Chesham HP5 2RG

Slough Town v Oxford City Development
City will be looking to shake off Sunday's heavy defeat at Denham against a Slough side who earned a creditable draw at Ascot United Reserves. That draw ended a run of four defeats at the end of last season. City need to find their legs in the new division but, despite Sunday's defeat, they still created plenty of chances, especially in the second half.
Arbour Park, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY

​Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Guernsey (Note: 12:30 ko)
Sports lost 2-1 at Stoneham on the opening day whereas Guernsey were enjoying an incredible 7-5 debut victory over Wimborne. Sports will need to be wary of six-goal Calleigh Hedley but will also be keen to get some points on the board, ending a barren run that stretches back more than ten games. For Guernsey it will be a first taste of an away league game.
Chapel Gate, East Parley, BH23 6BL

​AFC Stoneham v Hassocks (Sussex County Premier)
The Purps welcome Sussex Premier League side Hassocks to Stoneham Lane. Hassocks ended last season in fourth spot but didn't play a game after February, conceding their last four league matches. They have ten new names in their squad for this season, so are something of an unknown quantity.
Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh SO16 2PA

Bemerton Heath Harlequins v Bournemouth Poppies (Dorset League)
Both these sides are starting out in new leagues this season. Harlequins kicked off their Southern Region campaign last weekend withy a 2-0 home win over Bursledon. Poppies have yet to start their Dorset League season
Western Way, Salisbury, SP2 9DR

Bournemouth Manor (Dorset League) v Wimborne Town
It's only been two seasons since these two were league-mates in the Dorset League. That season saw Wimborne earn promotion to the Southern Region South and Manor ended it second from bottom. As you would expect from the league placings, Wimborne were victorious in both league meetings, winning 11-2 at home and 5-1 in Bournemouth. Emily Trim, who is still in the Magpies squad, scored seven times against Manor that season.
Kinson Manor Playing Fields, BH10 7EY

Bursledon v United Services Portsmouth (Hampshire Div. 1)
Two teams who were almost in the same division last season before USP dropped out of the Southern League just prior to the start of the season. They went on to finish fifth in the Hampshire League. Of course, The Dons were only promoted the season before, so the sides shared a division just two seasons ago. On their way to the title, Bursledon won 3-2 at Toynbee School after drawing 1-1 in Portsmouth earlier in the campaign.
Toynbee School, Eastleigh SO53 2PL

Denham United v Barton Rovers (Thames Valley Division 3 South)
Denham's Southern Region season started with a real bang as they smashed in nine goals at home to Oxford City Dev. (Goal Den Girls). They welcome Thames Valley Division 3 side Barton Rovers to the Den for this FA Cup. Barton may be in the lower reaches at them moment, but they can boast a number of seasons in the Southern Region Premier. They last played at that level in 2019.
The Den, Oxford Road, Denham, UB9 4DW

Farnborough v Brackley Town
Newly promoted Farnborough, yet to start their Southern Region campaign after Sunday's postponement, welcome Brackley Town to The Easy As HGV Stadium on Sunday. Town are also newly promoted to the East Midlands Division One South after going unbeaten in the Northamptonshire Premier League last season.
The Easy As HGV Stadium, Farnborough, GU14 8UD

Farnham Town v AFC Varsity
An all SoReg South clash between two sides who were both victorious on the opening day whilst both keeping clean sheets. Varsity progressed through this stage last season, winning 3-1 at Andover New Street before going out to Sholing in the following round. Farfnham meanwhile, put out Farnborough at this stage before going on to beat Havant & Waterlooville. The finally went out to National League side, London Bees.
Memorial Ground, Farnham, GU9 7DY

Finchampstead (Thames Valley Division 1) v Milton United
Milton's opening league game was postponed last weekend, so they go into this as their first competitive game of the season, as do Finchampstead, who start next week. The Thames Valley outfit finished in third spot last season, adrift of the top two but well clear of fourth placed Barton United.
Finchampstead Memorial Ground, Finchampstead, Wokingham RG40 4JU

Havant & Waterlooville v Bognor Regis Town(London & South East Div. 1 South)
Bognor have started their league campaign with two straight wins, 2-1 at Leatherhead and 2-0 at home to Hastings. This comes after a second place finish last season, five points adrift of Aylesford. They went out of the cup at the first hurdle last season, losing on penalties to Montpelier Villa. The Hawks, who were runners-up last season in the league, lost their opener last weekend. They went out to Farnham Town in last season's competition, after seeing off United Services Portsmouth and Warminster Town.
Westleigh Park, Havant PO9 5TH

Kidlington Youth v Ruislip Rangers (Thames Valley Division 1)
Ruislip finished in mid-table of the Thames Valley League Division One last season, and went out of the FA Cup at this round, losing 8-0 at Denham United. The Greens were just below midway but did get past this stage of the cup when they beat Headstone Manor before going out to Watford Development.
Yarnton Road, Kidlington, OX5 1AT

Manorcroft United (South East Counties , Surrey Premier) v Tilehurst Panthers 
Manorcroft United won Surrey Division One North at the first time of asking last season, with a 100% record, fifteen points ahead of their nearest rivals. That earned them a place in the Surrey Premier League, effectively taking over from Farnham Town who progressed into the Southern Region structure. Tilehurst beat Goring United at this stage of last season's trophy before falling to Brentford in the next round. 
Coopers Hill Recreation Ground, Englefield Green, TW20 0JX

Pagham (Sussex County Premier) v Andover New Street
Andover had a great start to their SoReg campaign with a resounding 5-0 victory at Nursling & Shirley. They face a potentially tricky away tie at Sussex County Premier Pagham in the FA Cup. Pagham finished second last season losing only three times in the league.
Jubilee Playing Field, Bognor Regis, PO21 5TU

Penn & Tylers Green v Caversham United (Thames Valley Division 1)
Having spent the last few years in the same division, these two will know each other well. The Goats dropped back down to the Thames Valley League at the end of last season, but the sides faced each other three times in all competitions last season. The first of these matches was in this very competition at Mapeldurham. Penn won that one 5-0 thanks to goals from Sarah Harrison(2), Rachel Southby (2) and Tara Woodward.
French School Meadow, Elm Road, Penn HP10 8LG

Nursling & Shirley v Leatherhead (London & South East Division One South)
Neither of these sides has had the league start they would have wanted. Nursling 7 Shirley (QK Ladies last season), went down 5-0 at home to Andover New Street whilst Leatherhead, after a lateral move from North to South, have lost both of their opening two games, 4-2 at Steyning and 2-1 at home to Bognor Regis. Both progressed past this stage in the cup last season but then fell in the following round.
The Hive, Redbridge Lane, Southampton SO16 0XN

Shaftesbury v Dorchester Town (Dorset League)
A Dorset derby to begin the cup campaign for these two. Last season they shared a division and finished as the top two. Shaftesbury taking the title, and promotion, by nine points. The league game at Shaftesbury ended 3-3 whilst won 4-1 in Dorchester. However, Town gained revenge by beating Shaftesbury in the league cup semi-final on their way to lifting the trophy.
​Coppice Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8PD

​This Sunday saw the start of the new Southern Region Women's League season. With so many new teams coming into the league, it only seemed right to open the season with a visit to one of them and what better place to start than The Den, home of Denham United Ladies, for the visit of Oxford City Development. Two teams making their Division One North bow. City gained promotion to the Southern Region League by means of a second place finish in Thames Valley League Division One last season. Denham had made a lateral move from the equivalent division in the London & South East setup, a league they had played in since 2019. Last season saw them finish in fifth place.
Denham had three players making their debuts. Pia Davis, who came in from Caversham AFC after scoring 28 goals in 17 games for them on the way to the Thames Valley Division Two title last season. Louise Nash played for Watford Ladies FC Development last season, scoring 14 in 16 games and Grace Barrell, who was banging in goals for Denham as far back as under 9 level.
City, meanwhile, included seven players from last season's promotion-winning squad, Amelia Davis, Paige Barrett, Anna Goddard, Tasmin Lyne, Bailee Latimer, Sophie Antonen and Libby Burgess.

​Denham made a very quick start to the game and, within a minute, only a very brave piece of goalkeeping from Molly Scott prevented Pia Davis from the perfect debut. However, the visitors resistance was broken just a minute later when a corner from the left was met at the back post by a towering Niamh Cashin header. Despite the efforts of both goalkeeper and defender on the line, the ball ended in the back of the City net. 1-0.

United looked stronger and more experienced than their visitors across the whole pitch, who were struggling to keep hold of the ball. Sure enough, just before the quarter hour, Denham added to their tally with a quick break down their right. Brogan Moore slipped the ball square to Liana Horwood and she made no mistake from close range. 2-0
However, just when it looked as if the home side might run away with the game, Oxford hit back completely out of the blue. The goal came from a Denham attack that City centre-half Amelia Davis stepped in to break up. Her clearance from just inside her own half was, no doubt, only designed to relieve the pressure. However, on a blowy day, the ball caught a gust, bounced on the edge of the area and completely fooled Ruby McCulloch in the Denham goal as it sailed over her head into the net. 2-1. One attempt on target, one goal for the visitors.

The Blues soon regained their composure though and nine minutes later they restored their two goal cushion. This time a long ball found Liana Horwood on the left hand side of the box. The Denham player took the ball down with one touch before firing low past Scott to make it 3-1.
Pretty soon it was four but not without a certain amount of controversy. Another Denham raid up the right appeared to go over the goal-line with the last touch coming off a forward. The assistant on that side signalled goal kick but the referee over-ruled him, much to the dismay of the City players and bench. They were even more aggrieved when the ball came into the box and left-back Amna Butt rose above everyone to power a header into the net. 4-1
​
Controversial maybe but Denham's overall dominance was certainly worthy of a good lead in the game. Having said that, City were not going to let them have it all their own way and, with a minute to go, Bailee Latimer showed everyone exactly what she was capable of, stepping onto a loose ball some 20 yards out before sending it screaming past McCulloch into the top corner. Great strike! 4-2

HT Denham United 4 Oxford City Development 2. Denham's strength and experience was proving to be a little too much for a young City squad. However, there was no lack of fight in the visitors and they had managed to score twice despite spending the majority of the game on the back foot.

​Its rare to see a goal scored from inside a players own half and even rarer to see both teams achieve the feat. However, after Amelia Davis's first-half goal for City, Denham begin the second half by scoring from the kick-off, Brogan Moore seeing Scott off her line and sending the ball looping over her from 50 yards out. 5-2
If that goal showed Moore's strength to score from so far out, the next goal ten minutes into the second half displayed her deft touch. Amna Butt sent a ball up the left flank for Moore to chase and, as the ball bounced in front of her, she took a look before sending a lob over Scott with the outside of her right foot. Excellent vision and technique. 6-2

Denham were in full flow now and, before the hour, made it seven. Pia Davis, denied in the first minute, drove up the right before smashing a low drive across Scott into the far corner. 7-2
The game was now well and truly beyond City but that didn't stop them from having probably their best period of the game, where they could and probably should have got at least one more goal back. First of all Latimer send a left-foot striking smacking into McCulloch's right-hand post then substitute Precious Kujore was sent clear but could only pull her spot narrowly wide of the same post.
Approaching the last 15 minutes, Denham almost added to the score when Cashin saw her effort come back off the bar. Molly Scott once again throwing herself bravely at the feet of onrushing attackers to grab the loose ball. However the Oxford stopper was powerless to prevent Cashin from scoring the eighth on 85 minutes. When a ball was played into the box goalkeeper and striker both challenged for the ball which popped out leaving Cashin with the simple task of rolling it into an empty net. 8-2.

Down but not completely out, City then almost hit back again when Latimer put another effort just wide of the mark. The Hoops number two could easily have had a hat-trick in this game, but it was not to be. That couldn't be said for United number 10 Brogan Moore though. With a minute go, she broke through on the left, drove into the box and let fly from a narrow angle. Molly Scott once again made a good stop, taking the full force of the shot in her midriff. However, Moore was not to be denied her hat-trick, quickly latching onto the loose ball and guiding it into the net. 9-2.

FT Denham United 9 Oxford City Development 2. What a start to life in Division One North for Denham. A comprehensive win sees them sitting probably atop the table, albeit after one game. There'll be more difficult challenges to come, no doubt, but they do appear to be well-equipped to hold their own in the league. City lacked a little in strength and experience, but that will come as the season progresses. They continued to battle even after the game was lost and a special shout out must go to their goalkeeper Molly Scott, who was never afraid to throw herself in where the boots were flying.
Next up for Denham is a home Women's FA Cup tie with Barton Rovers, whilst Oxford make the trip South to face Slough Town in the league. Both games will, of course, be previewed in Edition 2 of SoReg Review, out later this week

Denham United: McCulloch, Cox(c), Butt, Barrell, Hewitt, Rragami, Baranowski, Cashin, Davis, Moore, Horwood. Subs: Keary, Greenwood, Torr, Polton, Nash
Oxford City Development: Scott, Wong, Jenkins, Davis, Barrett, Raymond-Barker, Anthony, Goddard, Lyne(c), Day, Latimer. Subs: Antonen, Kujore, Black, Burgess, Radford

The Ground
The Den is situated just off Oxford Road, between Uxbridge and the M40. There's a reasonably large car park alongside the pitch, between the branded entrance gates and the clubhouse. There's also parking available next to the Community Centre. However, there are private parking signs up around that side of the centre, so be careful just in case they do clamp, as stated on the signs. The clubhouse, which straddles the halfway line, has a covered patio area out front with a number of tables that give a view of the pitch. There's also a separate building that houses the players and officials changing rooms. There are also tables outside this building, also with views of the pitch. The dugouts are on the opposite side of the playing surface, bounded by white fencing and advertising hoardings. There is also lighting on both sides of the ground. Not floodlighting as such, but more likely used for training. The pitch itself, whilst not having a discernible slope, is undulating in places. There are several small-sided pitches marked out behind the goal at the far end of the ground.
Overall, this is a lovely ground with a lot of character.


Ground Number: 457
Att: 
Entrance: N/A
Programme: N/A