London Bees took on Ipswich Town Women at the Hive this afternoon. Being played on a make shift pitch the teams experienced a range of weather conditions, including torrential rain. Something spectators could have avoided if the host were able to use the main stadium. Competing in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier both sides were desperate for the points. Going into this game the home side picked up Jo Wilson, who returns to her former club. Making her first stint at the Bees is Hannah Potter having joined too. Not to be confused with Harry Potter. In their last fixture the host lost away to Southampton, seeing five goals fly into their net. Ipswich came into this game unbeaten all season. Against Keyneham they scored eleven goals, only conceding two. When the two teams met in Suffolk earlier this season it was the blues who left with the victory. Narrowly winning one nil.
It only took three minutes to break the deadlock in London this afternoon. Cross from Ipswich Town’s Zoe Barratts find the net. Minutes later the guest had a second, Sarah Brasero- Carreria smashed the ball into the bottom left corner, following a cross from Anna Grey. Complete and utter domination by the Suffolk side. Courtney Ward Chambers was the main spark for the host in the first half, as she was during her time at Queens Park Rangers Women. Glad to see her back on the pitch. Bees Captain Flo Gamby had a shot which just missed, Sophie Lee saw similar fate with her effort a minute later. Anna Gray was really standing out amongst her teammates in blue. Awful weather conditions appeared before half time, making play difficult for both sides. Supporters certainly felt sorry for those on the pitch.
At half time the Tractor girls were two in front. Dominating their opponents Ipswich Town were unbelievable, playing as if they had a point to prove. London Bees seemed unfocused, or uninterested you could say. Visitors deserving their points following this fixture. Special mention to the large number of travelling fans, very loud and supportive bunch. Credit to their club. Throughout the first period they were cheering on their side regardless of the rain beaming down. With play underway again Sophie Lee did well to prevent Ipswich being further ahead. However, she was unable to do so for long as the guest got a third, leading to a joyful reaction in the stand. The only real chance of note in the second half was Lauren Heria’s header that went narrowly wide. Danielle Puddefoot managed to grab a cancellation goal through a penalty in the seventieth minute.
In conclusion Ipswich Town Women were well deserving of their win. More so in adverse weather conditions, which affected both teams massively. Fabulous forward play time and time again gave them the chances they needed. Anna Gray was fantastic all afternoon. Wishing all Town fans, a safe journey home, and thank you for your warm welcome this match. All the best for the season!
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