Chichester made hard work of this must win fixture, all credit must go to the opposition for working tirelessly throughout the game.

From the word go, Chi were camped out in Lordswoods half, however, it must have been a good ten minutes into the game before Chi had their first strike on goal. Frustration set in and some players found this detrimental to their performance and the team as a whole.

Harris provided some stability with her breakthrough goal. Arriving late for a corner she managed to scramble control and poke home for Chi to take the lead. Five minutes later, it appeared that lightning does strike twice as the captain struck for the second time in two weeks. A cleared attempt fell to Wolfenden, controlling with her chest and striking into the top corner on the half volley. This brought the confidence that had rapidly disappeared back to Chi. The team passed the ball, switched played and continued to create chance after chance.

Richardson stepped up and came close with a well placed shot, only to find herself in an identical position moments later, this time smashing home for the third.

Dubious off side was a frustrating element to the game, with every through ball being played the flag was raised. Chi worked from midfield, asking Wolfenden, Richardson, Field and Teague to drive forward before playing the final ball. Laura Brander capitalised from this tactic slotting a fine finish home after some fantastic running. Richardson added to the tally with her second, an excellent side footed volley from a well delivered corner.

The second half saw Chi push more players forward, playing three at the back. Lordswood found some extra energy causing all manner of problems for the first ten minutes of the half. Chi eventually found their structure after the scare of an amazing long range strike from the opponents to rattle the bar.

Chi played well, but lacked a little with the final ball, this in conjunction with the frustrations of the continual offside saw tired legs from the busy fixtures schedule get even more tired. The football lacked quality for the most part, but players were still prepared to work as hard as they could. Several chances went begging, with the opposition keeper having a great game to reduce the score even further.

Phillips added a final goal for Chichester after working the ball well, turning to strike beneath the keeper. Chichester must ensure they produce the best possible football to get all six points from the final double header of the season against Upper Beeding at Church Road on Sunday 6^th May.

TEAM: S. Pennington, E. Brand, L. Harris, M. Lodge, N. Hathaway, M. Field, A. Richardson, S.Wolfenden, E. Teague, L. Brander, C Broughton.
SUBS:  L. Phillips, L. Streeter.
SCORERS: Harris, Wolfenden, Richardson (2), Brander, Phillips
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHI LADIES TAKE THREE POINTS OUT OF LOCAL DERBY DOUBLE HEADER

Chichester faced newly promoted local rivals in this mid week fixture. Chichester started in a lethargic manner with nothing much showing. Bognor were quick to close the space down forcing many errors.

Chichester were still first to strike with a fine Richardson goal. A sweeping move, one of Chichester’s first of the game, resulted in a cross field ball to be guided home from a right footed volley. Chichester struggled to keep Bognor at bay, they were full of running and passion to outdo, the supposed big guns of the league.

The second half Chichester took the foot off the pedal totally and committed Football suicide by letting Bognor get at them. Chi began to break down and gaps appeared from silly mistakes. Bognor made a triple substitution which inspired them to equalise and then take the lead. Chi has only themselves to blame, three shots, two mistakes, two goals. Despite a well fought last ten minutes with several clear cut chances, the Bognor keeper kept the three points for Bognor.

Chichester could not afford to drop any more points. If they win all of the remaining fixtures they will come second with a chance to play off for promotion. After a formidable half time team talk, Chichester set out their stall from the whistle in the second game of the double header. They were first to every ball, showed for the first time the will to win and the importance of the result.

Another attack starting on the right saw Phillips one on one with the keeper to delicately chip over to take the lead.

Chichester begun to find some rhythm, it was not a pretty sight, but they stepped up a gear and proved that there is a reason why they are fighting for promotion. Bognor appeared dumbstruck and found little or no response to Chichester’s domination of the game.

Chichester play Lordswood in a ‘normal’ game on Sunday 30^th April.

SQUAD: E. Brand, K. Troughton, L. Harris, S. Pennington, M. Lodge, E. Teague, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, N. Hathaway, L. Brander, C. Broughton. M. Field, L. Phillips.
FIRST MATCH SCORERS: Richardson
SECOND MATCH SCORERS: Phillips
REPORTER: Natalie Hathaway
 

CHICHESTER SCORE THIRTEEN GOALS IN MEADOW SPORTS DOUBLE HEADER

Chichester were victorious in yet another double header. They played some good football throughout, creating countless scoring opportunities. Most notable was the strike from their captain, Wolfenden who scored her first in two years for Chi.

Chichester applied early pressure for Brander to score from running through the offside trap to slot a simple finish past the keeper. Troughton scored a similar worked goal as she strode past the defence to lob the keeper. The third was a strike from Wolfenden who touched it out of her feet at the top of the box to strike the ball into the top corner.

Meadow Sports found themselves in a rare attacking position. They were awarded a dubious free kick for the captain to hit a sweet top corner shot to drag one back. Chichester ran rampant throughout the second half, quick inter play cut through the midfield and defence to continue supply for goal scoring opportunities. Brander completed her hat-trick with two goals before Phillips slotted home the final goal of the game.

Chichester must continue to exploit the oppositions defence, but have to put away all of their chances, far too many were squandered.

The second game repeated the pattern of the first Chi dominating with Meadow Sports hoping to hit them on the counter attack. Broughton opened the scoring beating the keeper in a one on one situation. Brander slotted home once more after running on to a Hathaway through ball. Broughton doubled her tally shortly afterwards with a left footed free kick into the top corner. Richardson popped up after her spell in goal to slot home a simple finish.

The second half saw Phillips on the score sheet again passing the ball into the empty net as Streeter played a square ball to leave the keeper stranded. Richardson started and ended the next goal of the game, a fantastic passing team goal. Confusion reigned for the final goal as both Troughton and Streeter met the ball. The final decision was given to Troughton, off her bottom!

A solid performance from Chichester, players allowed to express themselves; several tricks and skills were performed to perfection. However, the passing and perseverance of the team will hopefully prevail in the midweek double header against local opponents, Bognor.  Players were rested throughout the game to keep them as fresh as possible for this game as Chichester strive to move upwards in the league with each game, second place is in their hands. Chichester play Lordswood at Portfield on Sunday 2pm.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, S. Pennington, M. Lodge, L. Harris, A. Richardson, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, N. Hathaway, E. Teague, L. Brander.
SUBS:  L. Phillips, L. Streeter.
FIRST MATCH SCORERS: Brander (3), Troughton, Wolfenden, Phillips
SECOND MATCH SCORERS: Broughton (2), Brander, Richardson (2), Troughton, Phillips
REPORTER: Natalie Hathaway
 

CHICHESTER AND WANDGAS PRODUCE TWO DRAWS IN DOUBLE HEADER

Chichester came from behind in both of the games to gain two points in this vital top of the table clash. The game had the potential in deciding the second team to be promoted from the premier league. After two hours in the sweltering heat nothing could be placed between them.

Wandgas struck very early from a corner in the first game. Chichester then spent the remaining 54mins almost permanently camped in their half to find the equaliser. It took far too long to come and the Chi players became a little apprehensive and the standard of football dropped dramatically. Chichester gained their composure with a quick move between Broughton and Wolfenden, Seeing Wolfenden drive the ball forward for Field to chase. Close control and attacking running saw a Wandgas defender to wipe the player out just on the edge of the area. Phillips lofted a cross into the danger area causing a Wandgas defender to head into the back of the net. With five minutes to go Chi threw everything forward with no success to find a winning goal.

The second game was a total deadlock for the first half. Chichester’s defence worked well cutting out and disposing of their opponents long ball tactic. Pennington, Harris, Brand and Troughton fought hard to keep them at bay, taking a few knocks along the way. Wandgas looked dangerous from a poorly dealt with corner once again, Wolfenden bravely cleared on the goal line as an attacker crashed forward.

Chichester once again dominated the second half with Wandgas occasionally threatening with the long ball. Teague and Field were both brought down in the area as the ref waved the appeals away.  Wandgas broke through against the run of play. Chi failed to clear their lines, the ball dropped to the feet of an attacking player who struck from distance to see the visitors take the lead.

Chichester continued to drive forward with nearly every player finding themselves with an opportunity to strike for goal. Chi again made life difficult, the closest efforts came from a close range Broughton free kick from a back pass, a Brand free kick sailing just over the bar and a Richardson header inches wide of the post.

Persistent attacking from Teague allowed her to run at the defence continually breaking through to cause problems for the Wandgas defence. This pressure eventually paid dividends when Teague beat two players and played a fine strike that left the keeper stranded. Chichester maintained the pressure but once again Wandgas held on for the draw. The title race gets closer each game. Chichester plays Meadow Sports in their next double header on Sunday.

TEAM: C. Broughton, S. Pennington, L. Harris, E. Brand, K. Troughton, M. Field, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, N. Hathaway, E. Teague, L. Brander.
SUBS:  L. Phillips.
FIRST MATCH SCORERS: Teague
SECOND MATCH SCORERS: Teague
REPORTER: Natalie Hathaway
 

HEADLINE

Report will appear here when available.

TEAM: ?
SUBS:  ?
FIRST MATCH SCORERS: ?
SECOND MATCH SCORERS: ?
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHICHESTER DEFEAT HASSOCKS IN LEAGUE CUP

Chichester faced Hassocks in the swirling wind last Sunday to progress to the next round of the league cup. Chi won the toss and had the wind behind them for the first half. Laura Brander broke the deadlock early with a fine strike into the back of the net. Chichester had to contain Hassocks with the home team applying pressure despite working against the wind.

Kirtsy Troughton doubled the lead from a smart move at the corner. Field kept the ball in with a flick for Troughton to side foot into the empty net. Chichester slowly settled into some form of controlled football. Chi won a series of corners with Wolfenden and Richardson smashing wide. Chichester continued to force the play as they felt that two would not be good enough and had to make the most of the wind.

Chi left themselves a little open with the onslaught, good work from the defence kept Hassocks at bay. Field attacked the space on the right side neatly beating the defence to pull the ball across the goal for Emma Teague to place home.

A three goal lead was appeared to be a comfortable start. Hassocks attacked early as expected, but lacked in the final third. A scrappy opening to the half led to the ball being swept from end to end. Chichester finally gained control of the game and began to pass the ball with purpose, a switch of play from the right to left saw Wolfenden in acres of space to drive into. Playing a well weighted ball to Teague who coolly slotted home the goal to take the wind out of Hassocks sails, quite literally. The wind dropped and the Chichester defence found it easy to handle any attacking balls.

Hassocks did muster a final flourish that saw a player being brought down just outside the area. The resultant free kick clipped the post seeing their closest effort fall away they lacked a sense of belief and Chichester were able to play out the remainder of the game in relative comfort.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, K. Troughton,  L. Harris, M. Lodge, M. Field, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, E. Teague, N. Hathaway, L. Brander.
SUBS: L. Phillips
SCORERS: Brander, Brand and Richardson
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

HATHAWAY WINNER SECURES SIX POINTS N DOVER DOUBLE HEADER

Natalie Hathaway scored a last gasp winner to secure all six points from this double header. The heat and intensity of last Sunday were mirrored in the final moments of the second leg of the double headed game.

The first game was dominated by Chichester. Chi created opportunities through Emma Teague who demanded the ball to run riot within the Dover defence. The ball was threatening the Dover goal for extended periods of time before Chi took the lead. A smart move led to Annie Richardson driving at the defence playing the ball for Laura Brander to strike a sweet shot into the top corner.

The second half saw much of the same with little end product. Chi broke the deadlock with an excellent free kick from Emma Brand floating the ball over the keeper. Minutes later Chichester added a third from a similar position. Brand delivered the dead ball into the box for Richardson to head home.

The second game proved a little tricky for Chichester. For all the possession they simply could not score. Intricate play saw Chi overplaying instead of being more direct. it was a pretty sight but a goal was required. In a switch of play Sarah Wolfenden found space in the middle to attack, the ball was passed through the defence for Marie Field to poke home.

Chichester were again coasting with little threat on the Chi goal. The team were passing with much more confidence and accuracy, with Charlotte Broughton coming out of goal to meet every possible danger. Chichester squandered several opportunities to put the game to bed, when history again repeated itself. Chi have had an unlucky run of penalty decisions against them and today was no different.

A push at a corner led to the spot kick, confusion reigned as the Dover players ran away thinking the whistle was for a free kick on the keeper. Disarray! Broughton, just finger tips away faced the only shot of the game to see Dover draw level. The decision spoilt the good nature of the game, it became dangerous as reckless challenges flew in. Hathaway was penalised once again in the centre of the park.

In an ironic twist of events, Hathaway found herself isolated in a nothing move. She smashed the ball towards the goal, seeing it bounce up and over the oncoming keeper to claw the points from this fixture.

Chichester play Hassocks away in the semi final of the league cup Sunday 18th March.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, M. Lodge, E. Teague, S. Wolfenden, A. Richardson, M. Field, N. Hathaway, L. Brander.
SUBS:  S. Pennington, L. Phillips.
FIRST MATCH SCORERS: Brander, Brand and Richardson
SECOND MATCH SCORERS: Field and Hathaway
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHICHESTER WIN DENIED BY LAST GASP SHEERNESS PENALTY

Chichester were denied all three points by once again suffering at the hands of a controversial penalty kick being awarded against them. Chichester fought hard from going behind to taking the lead and looking good for the victory. A last gasp penalty earned Sheerness a point.

Sheerness arrived with a rejuvenated team and struck first after a fantastic Broughton save tipped onto the crossbar fell kindly to the oncoming striker for Sheerness to take the lead. Chichester responded ten minutes later, Teague attacked the left flank dribbling to the by-line before drilling the ball across the goalmouth. Sheerness failed to clear their lines fro Annie Richardson to smash home the equaliser.

A midfield battle commenced with Chichester trying to play football against the strength and long ball game of their opponents. Chi began to look the stronger with increasing possession they carved out several opportunities. Marie Field went close from a Wolfenden through ball. Teague continued to probe the left wing.

Chichester forced the game through a quick and sleek counter attack Laura Brander found herself with the ball and only two defenders to beat see slipped a clever ball through to Laura Streeter to strike to take the lead. Chichester took a late blow through a superb long range strike to bring the scores level just one minute before half time.

Chichester were the stronger of the two sides for much of the second half. Charlotte Broughton stopped any threat to the Chichester goal, the pick of the bunch a full length dive to tip the ball round the post to keep the scores level. Annie Richardson bravely leapt the highest to meet a Brander corner to head home the goal that edged Chi in front.

Chi continued to apply pressure, but could not find the net again and far too often allowed Sheerness the chance to equalize. The ball, miss-controlled, bounced up and struck the hand of a Chi player in the box. A harsh penalty was awarded and converted to level the scores. Chichester had little left and had to settle for a disappointing point.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, K. Troughton, M. Lodge, R. Maher  E. Teague, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, L. Streeter, M. Field, L. Brander.
SUBS:  A. Maher
SCORERS: Teague, Streeter, Richardson
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHICHESTER LOSE SUSSEX CUP SEMI-FINAL TO BRIGHTON

After several weeks of delayed fixtures the cup tie was finally resolved last Sunday. The game started in a scrappy manner with neither team able to settle into any sort of rhythm. Chichester were the first to carve out some form of fluid football, stringing some smart passing on the left side. Brighton squandered possession far too easily, allowing Chi to pressure and regain the attacking format.

A midfield deadlock occurred with neither side finding the ball in the final sector. Chichester remained relaxed and enjoyed their football, frustrating the Brighton side. Annie Richardson came close with a snatched shot from a well worked corner.

Brighton forced the issue for a spell of ten minutes, Chi were on the back foot with their opponents looking for the gaps to exploit. Chichester proved a tough side to penetrate with a bank of four midfield players, Hathaway and Richardson hassling the middle. Wolfenden held well cutting out most through balls, playing just in front of the defence. The defence were tireless throughout, switching players and moving the midfield to support, this strength proved too strong for Brighton who found they were restricted to only long range shots.

Another smart interchange with Teague, Wolfenden and Streeter saw Streeter break down the wing only to be stop illegally. The resultant free kick saw Streeter shot wide.

Brighton found themselves panic with the ball allowing Chi to nip in and steal possession. Troughton and Field had much success on the right forcing the ball out and working the line to penetrate the defence.

No real clear cut chances in the first half for either side set the second half up to be a huge battle if either team were to take the game in 90 minutes.

Brighton made changes at half time and attacked from the off, a stream of pressure saw a questionable penalty awarded for handling in the area. Brighton slotted home as the ball rolled just beyond the keepers hand. Brighton continued to dominate as Chi lost all structure, struggling for possession. The domination of possession was kept at bay by excellent defending from Harris as she forced play away from goal. Brand, Troughton and Teague pushed the defending line up field as Chi slowly wrestled back some sort of control.

Brander and Field held the ball up allowing the midfield to support and rally a comeback. Several shots show little threat to the Brighton goal as Chi continued to push forward. The best chance fell midway in the second half, a probing Teague run saw her find the by line and drag the ball back to the feet of Field who rolled the ball across the box to be met by Wolfenden. The keeper was strande on the opposite ball as she watched the ball sail past her towards the back of the net, Chi turned in anguish as the ball clipped the bar and flew over.

Chichester took great confidence from this and pushed forward in numbers, they created several opportunities but failed to produce that killer blow. Brighton were not about to stop playing football and responded by mounting a threat up front. Chi worked hard up and down the pitch to keep their chance alive, a poor clearance saw Brighton drive through Chichester with ease to square the ball to finish off the game.

A hard fought match with some defining moments saw Chi drop out of the county cup. They must now concentrate solely on the league, attmpting to move up the league as they play the seven games in hand. Chichester face second placed Wandgas at Church Road 2pm Sunday 11th February.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, E. Teague, L. Harris, K. Troughton, L. Streeter, N. Hathaway, A. Richardson, M. Field, S. Wolfenden, L. Brander.
SUBS:  M. Lodge, L. Phillips.
SCORERS: -
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHICHESTER LADIES GAIN FOUR POINTS FROM DOUBLE HEADER

The following week saw Chichester rejuvenated with a full strength team, however they failed to match the standard of football seen earlier in the season. Chichester played the first game of this double header in Whitstables half for 95% of the time. Chi lacked confidence in their shooting and failed to hit the target. pressure from the whole team forced corners and chances but no real scoring opportunities. Richardson came closest with a series of powerful headers goal bound. Chi switched the ball round the defence to draw the opponents out of their half. Streeter and Teague probed the wings, with good movement from Hathaway creating space up front.

Whitstable saw the first half out and continued with the same tactics for the second half. Chi worked hard trying to break down the eleven man defence, but time was ticking on this 60 minute game. Chi threw men forward and changed keeper. Broughton went upfront, with bags of energy created problems for the tiring defence. Field fought hard to win the ball, playing forward to Broughton who shot from distance, Brander followed the rebound to slot home. Brander doubled the tally with a flick on from Richardson, smashed into the back of the net.

After a short rest the players took the field for their second 60 minute game. The game repeated the pattern of the first with Chichester in their opponents half for the majority of the game, with little success towards goal. Numerous shots rattled the keeper and even the woodwork, but somehow they were kept out. Chichester had some good fortune with a Whitstable lob hitting the cross bar and bouncing directly on the line for Broughton to smoother. Chi were caught out in defence a few times as they pushed forward, last ditch tackles and good luck saw Chichester maintain the pressure.

The same change hoped that it could produce the same result, but the opponents sat as a bank of eleven to stop the attack. Brander, Broughton and Streeter came close, with Teague, Hathaway and Wolfenden having their shots cut out.

Chichester had stumbled in the second game squandering two important points as they strive to work their way up the league playing out their games in hand. Chichester are to play several double headers to catch up, lets hope for a better result next time.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, N. Hathaway, A. Richardson, E. Teague, L. Streeter, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS:  S. Pennington
SCORERS: Brander (2)
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHICHESTER LADIES STRUGGLE TO VICTORY WITH WEAKENED SIDE

After a long spell with no football, Chichester ladies returned to action and struggled to victory against Lordswood with a weakened side due to illness. Laura Brander and Charlotte Broughton sealed the victory in the second half after Lordswood got back into the game from a misunderstanding in defence.

TEAM: E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Pennington, M. Field, E. Teague, L. Streeter, A. Richardson, L. Brander, C. Broughton, L. Phillips.
SUBS:  -
SCORERS: Brander, Broughton
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

CHI LADIES REACH SEMI-FINALS OF SUSSEX CUP

A hard fought game resulted in a valuable win for Chi. Chichester were looking to avenge their league defeat in the cup tie. Early pressure for Chichester saw the woodwork rattled but no end product.

Littlehampton were given two chances and scored both. a set piece and a counter attack saw Chichester facing a uphill struggle. Chi managed to gain some ground by half time with Marie Field slotting home some scrappy defending from Littlehampton.

Chichester started brightly attacking from kick off, looking to level the score. A crazy ten minutes saw two players seeing red, one from either side. The ten ladies of Chichester appeared to be the fitter of the two teams and continued to create scoring opportunities. Emma Teague was having a field day on the left demolishing the defence and playing the ball across goal. Field levelled the score with her second of the game pouncing on a shot from Teague to calmly slot home.

With 25 minutes to play the two sides were locked together with Chichester looking just slightly more likely. Extra time beckoned and the Littlehampton crowd worked as hard as they could to urge their team forward.

Chichester struck early in extra time with a square ball from Field to see the substitute Judy Emenalo-Strange side footing for Chi to take the lead for the first time in the game. the goal took the wind out of Littlehampton and they struggled to drive forward but they were not done yet.

The first half of extra time was definitely all Chichester and the second half saw them attack hard for five minutes. Chi defended well holding up play and forcing errors from the home side. Chi drove forward into the spaces behind the defence and worked a few more opportunities. tired legs saw several free kicks conceded and no real possession being maintained. Chichester composed themselves for a final flourish. Teague attacked at speed once more, delivering a ball into the penalty area. Field applied pressure as the keeper fumbled for Annie Richardson to pick up the pieces to smash home the goal to seal the victory for Chichester.

A solid team performance with every member working hard to pull together to ensure the victory. Chichester face Wandgas in the league on Sunday at Church Road.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K.Troughton, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, N. Hathaway, E. Teague, L.Streeter, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS:  M. Lodge, M. Tomloinson, S. Pennington.
SCORERS: Filed, Emenalo-Strange, Richardson
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Chichester were disappointingly dumped out of the FA cup last Sunday after a run of excellent games. Chichester entered the arena as the underdogs, the team soon put this preconceived idea to the back of the fans and opponents heads as they dominated much of the first half. Frome saw early attacks cut short of goal as Chichester mounted attacks of their own.

Early sights at goal looked positive as Streeter and Teague attacked the flanks. Field and Brander held the ball well and distributed, but somehow Chi struggled to really penetrate the Frome defence. Passes from Richardson and Wolfenden gently applied increasing pressure as a goal looked promising. Brander saw herself clear from a Brand ball only to see the shot fly wide, Streeters smart shot was saved by the Frome keeper.

The breakthrough came from a Field run who unselfishly passed square for Brander to make certain to put Chi ahead. Frome made an immediate response and within two minutes had managed to squirm one under the Chi keeper. Chichester continued to play much of the attacking football, but failed to capitalise on their pressure. After a few hairy moments, last ditch headers from Lodge and Harris and a goal line clearance Chi were happy with a good half, however Chi were to rue the missed chances.

The second half saw Frome snatch an early lead from an excellent team goal, initiated by their strikers. Chi looked to respond immediately as their opponents had in their first half. After a midfield battle, Wolfenden had somehow out- muscled the central midfield driving forward she played a sublime ball to the feet of Teague. Teague approached the keeper, looking certain to level the score line, as she struck the keeper made herself big and kept Frome ahead.

Harris and Troughton worked tirelessly holding up the Frome strikers as they raced to every ball competing at the highest level. Chi maintained pressure and possession with little outcome as Frome shared the possession evenly. Chi did make in roads, but with no final ball through or shot there was little threat on goal.

A fine individual goal from a Frome striker put safety between themselves and Chi. Chichester continued to mount their comeback and Frome panicked until the final moments of the game as Chi still pressed for the vital goals.

Chichester can hold their heads high after a great run in the cup, with some fine individual and team performances throughout the rounds, firmly putting themselves on the footballing map. The team were well and truly gutted .... as they dreamt of what could have been....

Chichester face Littlehampton away in the Sussex cup on Sunday.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L.Harris, K. Troughton, M. Lodge, L. Streeter, A. Richardson, S. Wolfenden, E. Teague, M. Field, L. Brander.
SUBS:  J. Emenalo-Strange, M.Tomlinson, S. Pennington.
SCORERS: Brander
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Chichester maintained their excellent cup run by progressing to the next round of the league cup with a comfortable win. Natalie Hathaway and Kirsty Troughton both grabbed a double with Laura Streeter adding to the tally.

The first half saw all the damage done to enjoy the remainder of the game. Chichester were attacking from the kick off allowing no room for the league one team from Rottingdean. Laura Streeter opened the scoring with a simple side foot. Sarah Wolfenden started the move with a defence splitting ball for Mariie Field to run onto. Field attacked the space after breaking the off side trap, racing towards goal. Field played the square ball across goal beating the defender and the keeper for Streeter to slot home.

Kirtsy Troughton forced the ball into the back of the net for the second after a rebound fell at her feet for her to beat the keeper in the bottom right. Natalie Hathaway soon made it three for the home side with Field and Troughton linking up well, again the ball deflected from the keeper for Hathaway to be the quickest to react to squeeze the ball home.

Chichester were caught unawares on several occassions and perhaps were to blame for taking their foot of the pedal. The long ball over the top created problems defensively with a little doubt creeping into their performance. The visitors were awarded a series of free kicks in dangerous positions. Charlotte Broughton kept them at bay, commanding the area and quickly organising the defensive formation.

Hathaway rounded off an excellent half with a superb goal. A well worked move switching from side to side resulted in Laura Brander pulling the ball back to Hathaway who struck sweetly through a crowd of players to slot the ball in the bottom corner to bring the tally to four.

Chichester rang the changes for the new half allowing players to explore new roles. Rottingdean threatened, but were always matched by the Chi defence. Troughton made the final addition to the scoreline with a first time strike to see the ball bulge in the back of the net.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, M. Lodge, A. Richardson, N. Hathaway, S. Wolfenden, L. Streeter, K. Troughton, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS: Troughton (2), Streeter, Hathaway (2)
SCORERS: Streeter, Field, Ememalo-Strange.
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Chichester progressed to the second round of the FA cup following a fantastic second half display. Chichester and Aldershot were locked in a goal less first half with neither side looking likely to score. A midfield and defensive battle was fought with no let up. Chi looked the most dangerous in the closing stages of the half as they mounted pressure, coming from wide and through the middle, the Aldershot defence did enough to go in for half time all square.

Chi started the second half where they left off with mounting pressure, playing the ball out wide looking to exploit and turn the Aldershot defence. The pace of the Chi front line was proving more and more difficult to handle. Chi were soon rewarded when Marie Field latched onto a central through ball from Sarah Wolfenden crept through to her as a result of a defensive error. Field calmly slotted the ball to the right of the keeper to put the home side ahead.

Laura Streeter doubled the tally, running from the wide right, striking a cross come shot to see it sail over the keepers head. Chichester were unable to settle and Aldershot showed signs of responding. A five minute spell saw Chi concede sloppy fouls and unnecessary mistakes providing opportunities for Aldershot to creep back into the game. Excellent keeping from Charlotte Broughton kept the opposition at bay, clearing her line and making brave saves in dangerous situations.

Chichester played the final twenty minutes closing the door on the Aldershot team, returning to their five across the middle for a more defensive formation. Chichester saw more success on this time on the counter attack with Judy Ememalo – Strange shooting from long range into the top right hand corner. Emma Teague saw her late strike go painfully close to put the icing on the cake.

A tiring battle saw Chichester go through to the second round of the FA cup. They have been drawn away to Frome Town, who play in Somerset, with the tie due to be played on Sunday 12^th November.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, A. Richardson, L. Streeter, L. Brander, E. Teague, M. Field, M. Lodge.
SUBS: N. Hathaway, J. Ememalo-Strange, H. Gardiner.
SCORERS: Streeter, Field, Ememalo-Strange.
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Chichester continued their success in cup games by progressing with ease to the next round of the Sussex cup. Chichester set the pace early on with Laura Streeter, Judy Ememalo (2) and Marie Field (2) bagging five goals between them in the first half. Chichester worked the ball wide and attacked the crosses with joy. Chichester created many more chances in a scrappy first half.

Chichester settled in the second half continuing their wide play and delivering cross after cross for the attackers to run on to. Chi had a spell of untidy football as many players looked straight for goal instead of building the play. They soon regained composure and were comfortable passing the ball throughout the team with patience. Charlotte Broughton (2) and Kirsty Troughton were amongst the scorers in the second half. Marley Lodge and Maria Tomlinson made a positive contribution to the team when they came on, playing the ball down the wings and stopping all that came towards them.

Laura Streeter bagged a second half hat-trick to add to her strike from the first half and bring the total to eleven. Chichester had a great amount of time on the ball, with many players driving forward and playing penetrative passes through the defence to create many scoring opportunities.

The young Eastbourne team worked hard throughout, but age and experience were too much to overcome. Chichester play at Church Road, Sunday 22^nd. K.O. 2pm.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, A. Richardson, N. Hathaway, L. Streeter, J. Ememalo-Strange, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS: M. Tomlinson, M. Lodge.
SCORERS: Streeter (4), Ememalo (2), Field (2), Broughton (2), Troughton
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

The order of the day was strictly formal as both squads lined up before gracing the field to the roar of the huge crowd. Any nerves were soon lost as a feisty start saw little control from either side. Once the teams settled the game was open, with end to end play. Chichester broke the deadlock after some good work out wide from Laura Streeter leaving Laura Brander to poke home the first goal after only eight minutes. Havant and Waterlooville responded almost immediately with a long ball out wide before they delivered the cross for the equalizer.

The half remained incredibly tight with chances saved by both keepers. Several good chances fell to Chichester, free kicks were struck wide and Marie Field saw her attempts go painfully close.

The second half saw Chichester step through the years and firing on all cylinders dominated the game to progress to the third round of the cup. An own goal in the 63^rd minute as a result of pressure from Field saw Chi nudge ahead. Solid performances throughout the team allowed each player to grow in confidence striving forward for more goals. Wolfenden, Richardson and Hathaway held strong in midfield winning most of the possession and distributing the ball to dangerous areas.

A substitution forced through injury proved to be profitable. Judy Ememalo-Strange made a nuisance of herself up front and soon reaped the reward as she scored two minutes after coming on the pitch to extend the lead on 75 minutes. Continuing to work tirelessly with Field up front they continued to create chances to seal the victory.

The icing on the cake was delivered as Kirsty Troughton received the ball in a wide position after a flick on from Streeter, she delivered the ball first time to be met by the foot of Richardson who made a late run into the box.

Havant and Waterlooville shown last gasp interest in saving the game when awarded a silly free kick they made no mistake and launched the ball into the back of Chichester’s net. Too little way too late for the visitors as Chichester sailed into the next round with a fantastic team performance. They face Aldershot at home Sun 29^th October at Church Lane.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, A. Richardson, N. Hathaway, L. Streeter, E. Teague, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS: M. Tomlinson, M. Lodge, J. Ememalo-Strange.
SCORERS: Brander, OG, Ememalo-Strange, Richardson
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden

More pictures from the match available on Dave Haines Website.
 

Chichester progress to the second round of the FA cup at the second time of asking. A postponed game was again in doubt as heavy downpours dumped a mass of puddles across the Staines pitch. Hard work from the grounds man allowed the game to go ahead with only a slight delay

The pitch held up well and both teams mounted early attacks. As the game began to settle the weather decided to issue another onslaught of rain. The game continued despite the weather as Chichester came closer and closer to hitting the target. The attacks came from wide, with Marie Field chasing the ball, holding up play for the team to join to apply the pressure. Streeter and Teague had their chances, blasting just wide

Chichester had a period where they struggled to contain the Staines attack, with players running through to create problems. Chichester some how survived and regained control of their game. Natalie Hathaway played some well weighted passes, exploiting the oppositions defence, to see the Staines keeper stop several chances

Laura Brander broke the deadlock half way through the first half. A powerful strike from the right side of the penalty area, floated over the keeper for a one goal lead. Staines push onwards and again asked questions of the Chi defence, forcing them to reshuffle the formation, moving Sarah Wolfenden from a five man midfield to play right back to shut up shop

Chichester survived a panic as a goal mouth scramble resulted in the ball in the back of the net for Staines. However, they were denied the goal as the referee deemed that the player on the floor had received a head injury and play had been stopped. Chichester made it to half time on the back foot

Brander had to be replaced due to injury to allow Maria Tomlinson a run out at left back, allowing Wolfenden to join Hathaway and Richardson in the middle of the park to again pack out the midfield

The second half saw many chances fall to Chi, but still they failed to capitalise and finish the game. Staines squandered their own chances and Charlotte Broughton made a fine save as the ball skidded off the slippery surface in front of her

Chi made hard work for themselves, squandering possession and losing composure, allowing their opponents to apply unnecessary pressure. Streeter had two great chances, to be denied by the keeper, Field saw her effort creep inches the wrong side of the post. The most fantastic build up play, cross and header, was touched away by the Staines keeper. Richardson rounded a defender, placing a powerful cross onto the head of Emma Teague as she attacked the near post. How the keeper saved it is baffling

Chichester pressed and gained their reward on the final whistle, the second round of the FA cup Sunday 8^th October where they face Havant and Waterlooville at Church Road.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, A. Richardson, N. Hathaway, L. Streeter, E. Teague, L. Brander, M. Field.
SUBS: M. Tomlinson, M. Lodge, M. Maher, A. Maher
SCORERS: Brander
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Chichester completed their first away game of the season with a depleted squad, only fielding the bare bones of a team. Injuries throughout the team changed the structure with the centre forward keeping goal and vice versa.

Chichester started brightly, delivering the ball wide for Emma Teague and Laura Streeter to tease the full backs providing dangerous balls into the box. Opportunities were squandered by Chichester and totally against the run of play, a mix up in defence saw the Sheerness striker pop the ball over the head of the oncoming keeper.

Chichester lost structure and begun to panic. They struggled to find their feet and last ditch recovery tackles from Kirsty Troughton and the bravery of the stand in keeper Laura Brander bought Chichester time to compose themselves.

As the game drew closer to half time, Chichester missed chances time and time again. Their frustration was eased by a fantastic header into the top corner from Annie Richardson to bring the visitors level.

Chichester had to continue to dig deep as the temperature rose. Soon their superior fitness began to tell as they dominated possession and imposed authority onto the game. Sheerness to their credit gave everything they had, testing the defensive structure and threatening the Chichester goal on several occasions. Richardson struck again, providing a slight safety net between the two teams.

A fine save from Brander, her finger tips to the ball prevented the home side from drawing level. With a new found energy Chichester drove forward and Emma Teague slotted the ball home to seal the victory. The team worked hard and put in a respectable second half performance. There is much to work on, namely converting excellent football into goals, however another three points in the bag help compete for promotion.

Chichester play Staines Town in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup on Sunday at Church Lane, 2pm K.O.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, L. Streeter, N. Hathaway, A. Richardson, E. Teague, M. Field, L. Brander, M. Tomlinson.
SUBS: -
SCORERS: Teague, Richardson (2)
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden
 

Another glorious day shone on Chichester as they continued the season facing their closest rivals. On paper Littlehampton pose the greatest threat to the success of Chichester Ladies. The home side started well, dominating play and made it difficult for Littlehampton to find their feet and settle into the game. Chichester struck early but failed to capitalise on the opportunities.

Chichester kept their structure and spread the ball wide looking comfortable on the ball. Littlehampton gradually found their confidence and drove forward at the home sides defensive line. As the half neared its end, a fine strike from the Littlehampton forward saw them take the lead. Shortly afterwards, the Chichester defence were left stranded as Littlehampton doubled the lead. Chichester maintained composure, but again failed to convert the final ball.

The second half saw Chichester dominate much of the possession, looking for a way to breakdown the opponents defence. Littlehampton saw chances missed to seal the game, which allowed the home side to continue their offence. Laura Brander and Laura Streeter struck well, only to see the keeper scurry to a last ditch save. Sarah Wolfendens strike from long range came agonisingly close. Chichester needed to score one and no doubt more goals would follow.

Chi over powered their opponents in the final ten minutes, the decisive goals again eluded the home side. Marie Field struck the post, Kirsty Troughton appeared to be pulled to the ground in the penalty area and goal mouth scrambles failed to produce any joy for Chichester.

A fine performance from both sides in difficult conditions was a credit to the ladies and the level of football on display.

TEAM: C. Broughton, E. Brand, L. Harris, K. Troughton, S. Wolfenden, L. Streeter, N. Hathaway, A. Richardson, E. Teague, M. Field, L. Brander.
SUBS: M. Tomlinson, M. Lodge, A Maher
SCORERS: -
REPORTER: Sarah Wolfenden