The draw for the Fourth Round of the F.A.Women's Cup was made this morning by the Football Association. The draw has a strange look to it after all Third Round ties were postponed yesterday because of the weather. This is the final round before the FA WSL clubs make their entry into the competition. Fourth Round draw: to be played on Sunday 26 February Barnet or Peterborough Northern Star v Sporting Club Albion or Reading FC Women Brighton & Hove Albion or Havant & Waterlooville v Larkhall Athletic or Tottenham Hotspur Charlton Athletic or Bradford City v Derby County or West Ham United Leicester City LFC or Cardiff City v Sunderland or Rotherham United Aston Villa or Coventry City v Watford or Leeds United Durham Wildcats or Preston North End v Nottingham Forest or Blackburn Rovers Enfield Town or MSA Ladies v Manchester City or Oxford United Keynsham Town or Gillingham v Portsmouth or Sheffield FC
The wintry weather has devastated the women's football fixture programme over the weekend and claimed all sixteen F.A.Women's Cup Third Round ties. Only a handful of matches managed to escape the big freeze, mainly played in the South West. Just the one match survived at Combination level and this was on Keynsham Town's astroturf pitch, where Forest Green Rovers won 2-1 against Keynsham Town Development. The Cup ties will be played next Sunday, weather permitting of course.
Northern Ireland 1 (Furness 48) Scotland 5 (Beattie 14,83,87,89, Evans 75) Four goals from Jennifer Beattie, and a first international strike from debutant Lisa Evans, gave Scotland a deserved win in their first match of 2012. Beattie opened the scoring in 13 minutes, but the home side fought hard to get back into the game, and Rachel Furness equalised just after half time. The game remained poised until late in the second half. The introduction of Evans on 67 minutes gave Scotland an extra spark, and she fired Anna Signeul's side into the lead again eight minutes later. A flurry of late goals from Beattie put an extra gloss on the result, as Scotland got their preparation for this year's Euro 2013 qualifiers off to the perfect start. Anna Signeul said: "This was a much tougher game than the score suggests. I thought we were the better side, and scored some fantastic goals, but Northern Ireland were confident on the ball, fought hard, and prevented us from pulling away until very late in the game. "Both sides looked a little rusty in the first half, but after Jennifer opened the scoring for us we had a few chances to increase our lead. We lost an unnecessary goal, but for me the biggest positive was that we kept going and had belief in our ability to get the win. "We were patient, some of our build up play was excellent, and as I said the goals were impressive. It was very pleasing to see Lisa get her first goal too. All in all, this was a very good start to our challenging and exciting 2012 fixtures." Scotland: Gemma Fay, Rhonda Jones, Rachael Small (sub Emma Mitchell 87mins), Ifeoma Dieke, Leanne Ross (sub Lisa Evans 67mins), Joanne Love (sub Rebecca Dempster 89mins), Hayley Lauder (sub Christie Murray 79mins), Kim Little, Jennifer Beattie (sub Suzanne Grant 89mins), Jane Ross, Emma Fernon (sub Frankie Brown 83mins). Subs not used: Shannon Lynn, Joelle Murray. (Report by www.scottishfa.co.uk)
Bradford City are looking forward to taking on Charlton Athletic on Sunday in the F.A.Women's Cup Third Round. The Northern Combination side are excited about the prospect of playing a team currently lying third in the National Division. A very positive and ambitious club, the team hope to play at their best on the day and the tie gives them an opportunity to see how they match up to the standard of the higher divisions. Bradford club captain Melanie Garside-Wight told Women's Soccer Scene: "It's a massive game for the club and everyone involved. It's probably the club's biggest match for fourteen years and hopefully we can go down there and put on a show. "Obviously Charlton are the favourites but there is no reason why we can't cause a shock and come away with a win and put ourselves into the next round. We are both third in our respective leagues so both teams should be full of confidence, but we are not going to make up the numbers and who knows - it's the FA Cup and anything can happen."
Kilmarnock Girls and Women are delighted to announce that they have obtained the services of Alan Cotton as their new Head Coach. Alan stated: "I'm delighted to be appointed to the position. I'm very positive about the challenge ahead and look forward to working with the players in the Premier League for the forthcoming season." Alan is starting with an open training nights on the next three Friday evenings at St Joseph's Academy, Grassyards Road, Kilmarnock KA3 7SH. The training starts at 6.30pm and is an open training night and anyone who might be interested in playing or helping in any capacity is invited to come along.
 Scotland Under-19 national coach Shelley Kerr has named her squad for an forthcoming education camp. The camp takes place at Toryglen Regional Football Centre, Glasgow, from Friday 10 - Sunday 12 February 2012 and a total of 24 players have been selected. Scotland Under-19 education camp squad:
 Watford goalkeeper Lauren Davey has been called up to the England Under-23 squad to compete in the Four Nations La Manga Tournament later this month. It is a fantastic achievement for Davey, who spent nearly a year out with a back injury last season. Having worked her way back to fitness she has again established herself as Watford's number one. Her recent record has seen her concede only three goals in her last five appearances for Watford, which has coincided with an excellent run of form for the Golden Girls. Watford centre back Shelby Hills has also been placed on standby for the England Under-23s. Meanwhile, other players in the squad continue to be noticed on the international stage. After Wales manager Jarmo Matikainen attended Watford's home game against Aston Villa, Megan Wynne, Sarah Wiltshire and Leanne Jones were all called up to a recent Wales training camp.
 Cheryl Baber is looking forward to another chance of taking on Premier League opposition when Larkhall Athletic play Tottenham Hotspur in the Third Round of the F.A.Women's Cup on Sunday. The Larks have reached this stage for the first time in their history and Cheryl admitted to Women's Soccer Scene: "It's a massive game for the whole club, we've all been buzzing since the draw was made. It's a massive chance for us to test ourselves against Premier League opposition." Larkhall have embarked on a fine Cup run which has seen them get past two Combination teams in Gloucester City and Newquay, as well as Shanklin in the last round. "We've already caused two upsets against Combination sides," says Cheryl. "We know it's going to be tough but I wouldn't have thought they know a whole lot about us so I think we have every chance of shocking a few people - it is the FA Cup after all." The Larkhall squad is an experienced one with several players who have played in the National Division in the past, including Cheryl herself. "I think it definitely helps to have the amount of experience that we do," she says. "Kelly [Cripps] has played in the semi finals with Bristol Rovers and we have plenty of Premier League experience - that can only help. We have a great squad this year with some really good players and it feels well balanced." Cheryl spent a part of her career at the Arsenal Academy and the Spurs squad includes some names familiar to her: "I recognise a few names, I was at Langford for a short time with Jenna [Schillaci] and know of Miranda [Hall] from her Watford days. We know they are going to have a decent set up and be well organised." The recent announcement that the Final is to be played at Ashton Gate has been a big boost to Cheryl, one of a number of Bristol City fans in the Larkhall squad. "It's great for Bristol to have the Cup Final at Ashton Gate this year," she enthuses. "It would be very special to be part of that but I think we need to be realistic. This is the furthest Larkhall have ever been in the Cup and we are just looking to the Spurs game." One thing Cheryl does insist on is that the Cup run will not take away their focus on winning the South West League, for which they are battling with Exeter City. "Not at all," she replies. "If anything, it's given us a massive boost after each round. We are having a great season in the league, FA Cup and County Cup and we want to do as well as possible in every competition. The league is obviously a priority but the FA Cup gives us a chance to test ourselves against teams in higher leagues and the excitement caused by the Cup can only be a good thing." The chance of playing Tottenham Hotspur also brings back a special memory for Cheryl, who made her senior women's football debut against them in an F.A.Women's Cup tie for Bristol City, as a 14-year-old in 1999. Her current Larkhall team mates Carly Bryant and Michelle Munro were also playing in that match. "That was a long time ago," she laughs. "I do remember that game and still have the programme. I started on the bench and got a bit of playing time - I was probably taller back then!"
Durham Wildcats are aiming to extend their impressive F.A.Women's Cup run when they take on Preston North End in the Third Round on Sunday. The university side are the last remaining County League club in the competition and insist they will not be daunted by the challenge of taking on their Premier League opponents. The Wildcats booked their place in the Third Round on the back of a stunning 4-1 victory over Northern Combination title challengers Sheffield Wednesday. "The FA Cup competition is very exciting for our players," player coach Lorraine Quinn told Women's Soccer Scene. "Out last Cup match against Sheffield Wednesday was a great display of this group's character and determination. We have had a great week of training and we are all looking forward to the next step of this competition. "The girls have already surpassed this season's expectations but we have been training since September for big games like this weekend and the players are by no means satisfied. "Preston North End are a tremendous side and we are all excited about the match."
Peterborough Northern Star are relishing the chance to take on Barnet in the F.A.Women's Cup this week in what has been a magnificent season for their club. The men's team have reached the last sixteen of the F.A.Vase and there been plenty of banter between the two managers about which team can stay in their respective Cup the longest. "Ever since the draw was made, there has been a buzz in the at training and at games," says manager Chris Lyon. "Barnet will represent the highest opposition our players have ever played against - one or two players looked on their website to read their profiles...by the time they had read 'international' for the third time they stopped reading." Northern Star have come through five games to reach this stage, including coming from 3-1 behind to beat Billericay Town 6-3 in the First Round, showing there is a determination in the team not to lose. They are currently fourth in the league and unbeaten in all competitions since the beginning of October but manager Lyon is not getting carried away. "We have to be realistic," he admitted, "the four league gulf is a lot bigger in the women's game than in the men's. However, on the day, it is eleven against eleven and you never know. "It's the biggest game all of our player will have ever played, however they will have support from friends and family on the day with a coach booked to take both team and supporters down to Underhill for the game." Rumours that the coach driver has been instructed to find a way of parking the coach in front of the Northern Star goal cannot be discounted though, and manager Lyon is trying to see if his side can play down the infamous Underhill slope in both halves... "I think it's a great opportunity for us as a club," says 16-year-old winger Jade Ramm. "And how hard we have worked for it, we deserve it. Even though they are a big club, we will go out there and do our best until the final whistle." 18-year-old defender Kayla Dortch added: "The thought of pitting myself against some fantastic players has really motivated me to push myself in my football career." Lyon concluded: "For the first time this season in the Cup, there is no real pressure on us to win. In previous rounds, we've either been the overwhelming favourites or at least expected to have a realistic chance of winning. This time, nobody gives us a chance, I'm just hoping that we don't freeze and are afraid to play our normal game - in our last league game the opposition manager said that we played the best football of any team in our league which was a nice compliment. "It's a day out and if the unexpected happens, then I can assure you it will be a very interesting trip home - there are a few pubs on the way back from Barnet to Peterborough!"
A date has been confirmed for the first leg of the UEFA Women's Champions League quarter final tie between Arsenal Ladies and Gothenburg. Laura Harvey's team will welcome their Swedish opponents to Meadow Park, home of Boreham Wood FC, on Wednesday, March 14. The first leg kicks off at 2.30pm (UK time) and you can pay on the day if you'd like to come along and support the Gunners. Entry is just £5 for adults and £2.50 for concessions.
Northern Combination Newcastle Utd have now gone nine points clear following their 2-1 win against Mossley Hill. However they were made to work very hard for their win, falling behind early on before Steph Eadon levelled the scores and Stacy Crooks netted the winner from the penalty spot. Liverpool Feds are in third, their highest position of the season to date, after they won 2-1 away to Huddersfield Town. One of the teams that the Feds climbed above was South Durham & Cestria, who drew 3-3 with Cheadle Heath Nomads. Jeneyha Webb netted twice and Tracy Sloane the other for Cheadle Heath, with South Durham replying through a Nicky Duckling hat-trick. Sarah Wood scored the all-important goal as Wakefield earned a crucial point from a 1-1 draw against Stockport County, who found the net through Nikki Daniels. Midland Combination Stoke City went four points ahead at the summit after they ran out 3-0 winners away to Radcliffe Olympic. Emma Sanders, Cassie Hyde and Natasha Catalano were on the scoresheet to help their side extend their lead. Two of the top four teams met each other and neither Leicester City and Leafield Athletic would have been too happy with the resulting goalless draw which means both teams concede some ground, leaving them in second and fourth respectively. Wolverhampton Wanderers moved up into third place on the back of a 2-1 victory over Northampton Town. Dani Selmes gave Wolves the lead from the penalty spot after ten minutes and after a Philippa Wilson own goal levelled the scores early in the second half, Selmes settled matters by heading in the winning goal. South East Combination Lewes require seven more points from their final five games in order to secure the title and they took themselves closer on Sunday with a 2-0 success at Crystal Palace. After the first half finished goalless, second half strikes from Holly Grogan and Tammy Waine gave the Rooks their fifteenth straight win. Enfield Town stay third after drawing for the second successive week, their match with Cambridge Women finishing goalless. Luton Town took the mid-table position by winning 2-0 away to Brentwood Town, thanks to a brace of goals from Nicola Henman. Milton Keynes Dons remain third from bottom but are only four points away from the top half of the table, following their 3-1 victory over Old Actonians. Lauren Goodier, Nikki Tarrant and Lil Stanton were all on target for the Dons, with the home side's consolation coming from Carla Williams. South West Combination Yeovil Town made it ten league wins in a row and preserved their five point lead at the top as they triumphed 1-0 at Swindon Town. A first half goal from Laura Bray proved to be just enough to give Yeovil the points from a hard earned win. Havant & Waterlooville continue to head the chasing teams following their 7-3 victory away to Keynsham Town Development. Vinny Nkomo led the scoring with a hat-trick for the Hawks, Laura Streeter added a double and there was one each from Lauren Cheshire and Tamsin Pibworth. Keynsham replied through Candy Hopson, Leanne Lapham and an own goal. Gloucester City's challenge appears to be over after they were beaten 3-1 in their local derby by Forest Green Rovers. Charlotte King scored a hat-trick to move Forest Green to within one point of their local rivals and keep their own title hopes alive. Newquay still have an opportunity of picking up a top half finish after they defeated Southampton Saints 2-0, given to them by strikes from Becky Atkins and Lucy Olde. Chesham Utd returned to winning ways with a 3-0 success against University of Portsmouth, which banishes any lingering relegation fears for the Clarets.
East Midlands League Premier Division leaders Mansfield Town went down to their first defeat of the season, 3-2 at the hands of second placed Daventry Town. The gap at the top is now down to six points and the two teams are set to meet again this Sunday. Peterborough Northern Star meanwhile warmed up for their F.A.Women's Cup tie against Barnet this week with a 6-3 victory over Shepshed Dynamo, which keeps them in fourth place. With Steel City Wanderers not playing, Nettleham took the chance to cut their lead at the top of Division One North to a single point with a 3-1 win away to Arnold Town. Rolls Royce Leisure won 4-0 at Mansfield Town Res to climb into third, ahead of Grimsby Town who drew 1-1 with Lincoln Ladies Development. Appleby Froddingham bounced back from a heavy defeat in their previous game to beat West Bridgford 4-0 and lift themselves back into the top half. Radcliffe Olympic Res stepped up their challenge in Division One South, defeating Leicester City Fosse 2-0 to move into second place. AFC Trinity also remain in contention after a 4-2 victory over Barrowby. Oadby & Wigston Dynamo made up ground on Ruddington Village by beating them 3-0. Eastern Region League Holders Hethersett Athletic are through to the quarter finals of the League Cup after Abbie Charlton and Grace Birchall gave them a 2-1 victory over Braintree Town. Hannah Porter and Georgia Box netted the goals as Colchester Town knocked out Premier Division opponents C & K Basildon 2-0. Thorpe Utd edged out Norwich City Res 2-1 thanks to Laura Wiseman and Rebecca Lake and a solitary strike from Natasha Fensome earned Bedford Ladies a 1-0 win against Stevenage Borough. Woodbridge Town complete the quarter final line up after they defeated Chelmsford City 2-1 with goals from Lucy Du Plooy and Harriet Snook. In the Premier Division, Arlesey Town went nine points clear at the top with a 6-1 victory over Billericay Town. Sarah Tayler netted a hat-trick, Mandy Cain added a brace and Katerina Hamplova rounded off the scoring. Donna Nicholls grabbed both goals as Peterborough Sports won 2-1 at Barking to climb into second place. Great Shelford moved to within one point of the Division One North title as goals from Sophie Hopkin (2) and Alison Wright earned them a 3-1 win against Bungay Town. AFC Sudbury were held to a 1-1 draw by Huntingdon Town, Jodie Sharp and Sian Gamble netting respectively, and Haverhill Rovers' hopes of the runners-up spot also took a knock as they were beaten 2-1 by Ipswich Wanderers, for whom Tanya McKew scored both goals. Taverham lifted themselves off the bottom as they beat Cambridge Women Res 1-0, Sally Hammerton scoring the only goal. Haringey Borough continue to close in on the leaders in Division One South, narrowing the gap to four points with a 4-2 victory over Hoddesdon Owls thanks to doubles from Julia Carruthers and Eleftherta Taladiandy. Hutton move up third after Lucy Hudson (2), Danielle Cliffe (2) and Leanne Cox gave them a 5-2 win against Hannakins. Leverstock Green and Royston Town battled out a 1-1 draw, Kelly Randall netting for Leverstock with Vicky Foulger replying. London & South East League Eastbourne Town made a swift return to winning ways and their 5-0 victory over Boreham Wood sees them extend their Premier Division lead to eleven points. Hemel Hempstead are now in second following a 3-1 success at Wandgas and Chichester City maintained their challenge with a 4-0 win away to Maidstone Town. However Westfield received a setback to their hopes by going down to a 1-0 defeat to Panthers. Crawley Wasps won 2-0 at East Preston and AFC Wimbledon kept up their recent good form by beating Denham Utd 1-0. In Division One (London), Kikk Utd defeated Tottenham Hotspur Res 6-2 to move themselves into second place, one point behind leaders Hampstead and ahead of Brentford, whose title hopes were jolted by a 2-0 reverse at Carshalton Athletic. Garston remain at the foot of the table after they were beaten 1-0 by Kent Magpies. North East League The points were shared in the Premier Division top of the table clash as York City and Hull City battled out a 3-3 draw. Megan Branham scored twice and Carol Thompson the other for York, who had led by two goals at half time, with Hull replying through Rebecca Beech, Charley McNamara and Sian Bentley. York therefore stay one point ahead of Hull, who have three games in hand. Hessle Town meanwhile stormed to a 12-1 victory over St Francis 2000 including a four-goal haul from Kayleigh James. Toni Anholm hit a hat-trick, Jade Collier added a brace and there was one apiece from Charmaine Pinder and Suzanne Smith. Whitley Bay and Scunthorpe Utd shared eight goals in their mid-table clash. Emma Bentley and Amy O'Brien netted doubles for Whitley and on target for Scunthorpe were Sue Hunsley (2), Sue Green and Rachael Harrison. Birtley Phoenix are now six points away from the Northern Division title after they defeated Tynedale 8-1. Vicky Mudd scored a hat-trick, Nicola Jackson and Rae Taylor added braces and Haley English was also on target. Kelly Howe (2), Lucy Scott (2), Rachel Martin and Ashley McConnell were on the scoresheet as Durham City consolidated themselves in fourth place by beating Birtley Town 6-1. Norton & Stockton Ancients netted ten without reply against Lumley to keep alive their chances of a top three place. Lepton Highlanders opened up a three point lead at the top of the Southern Division with a 5-0 win away to Bradford City A. Emma Rutherford bagged a hat-trick with Louise Wardman adding the other two. Rothwell Ladies kept up their challenge as doubles from Claire Popplewell, Angela Routledge and Victoria Sheriff gave them a 6-0 success at AFC Preston. Kirklees ran out 5-1 winners over Wetherby Athletic, Rachael White netting twice along with Helen Molloy, Sonya Moore and Debbie Tomlinson. North West League Chorley's hopes of the League and Cup 'double' were brought to an end as the Premier Division leaders were knocked out of League Cup, beaten on penalties by second placed Blackpool in the tie of the round. City of Manchester meanwhile eliminated higher division opposition when winning 4-2 against Bury Girls & Ladies. Denton Town scored six without reply past Liverpool Feds Res whilst Blackpool Wren Rovers kept up their good Cup form with a 9-1 success at AFC Liverpool. One other tie went to extra time, Carlisle emerging as narrow 3-2 victors over Southport Birkdale, and Mossley Hill Res edged out Warrington Town by the odd goal in seven. Penrith AFC defeated Brazil 6-1 and Padiham progressed with an 8-2 win against Springfields (Preston). The only league action took place in the Premier Division where Northwich Vixens went fifth by winning 3-1 at Bolton Wanderers and Preston North End were 1-0 victors away to Chester City. South West League Salisbury City are looking on course for a top three place after running out 4-0 winners over Stoke Lane Athletic, Hayley Ranachan bagging a hat-trick and Nicky Barns also on target. Weymouth and Bristol Ladies Union meanwhile battled out a goalless draw which keeps both teams in line for a top half finish. Downend Flyers stay seven points clear at the top of Eastern Division One but had to survive a scare in their 3-2 win at Swindon Spitfires. A Laura Baker double and Kate Michaels goal had put Downend three ahead before the home side fought back with a brace from Sophie Jones. Cleeve West Town continue to chase in second place and they won 4-0 at Cirencester Town, courtesy of a Tash Crew hat-trick and Sally-Anne Langton. Rosie Harper netted both goals as Bishop's Lydeard picked up a 2-0 victory away to Poole Town and Swindon Supermarine kept up their good form by beating Forest Green Rovers Res 2-1, Claire Moreton and Mel Bristow netting their goals. Chelsea Pitt hit a hat-trick and Vicky Tindall the other two as Bridgwater Town defeated Blandford Utd 5-0 and Cam Bulldogs pulled further away from the bottom two by winning 4-0 at Nailsea Utd with strikes from Sarah Wingate, Kirsty Brown, Christine Tanner and Michelle Watson. Stoke Gabriel have opened up a lead of four points in Western Division One after Mel Woodmore, Laura Carpenter, Kat Marment and Hayley Chamberlain gave them a 4-1 victory away to Dobwalls. Callington Town and Falmouth Town finished level at 1-1 with goals from Jodie Shipton and Amanda Jelbert respectively. Morley Rangers complete the quarter final line up in the Bristol Soccerworld Cup following their 3-2 victory over Bude Town. Jodie Nicholls, Chynna Evans and Megan Platt scored the goals to set up a last eight tie against Downend Flyers. Southern Region League Oxford Utd continued their defence of the League Cup with a 3-0 victory over Boscombe Albion. Their opponents in the semi finals will be Southampton Women who defeated Woodley Utd 1-0 thanks to an extra time goal from substitute Jane Yeates. Maidenhead Utd progressed with a 5-3 win against Mansfield Road and they will play Shanklin, 4-3 victors at Wycombe Wanderers with Susan Cullen hitting a hat-trick and Katy Rawlinson also on target. Stony Stratford Town produced the result of the round in the Chairman's Cup as they defeated Premier Division Andover New Street 2-1. Laura Wallman scored a hat-trick for Aldershot Town in their 5-1 success at Chesham Utd Res, Sian Houghton and Jade Ferguson adding the others, whilst Launton came through a tricky tie with Locks Heath, a Steph Barras hat-trick earning them a 3-2 win. Deanna Peters had a great day in front of goal, netting six times as Reading Ladies defeated Reading Town 10-1. Sinead Leigh-Anne (2), Alison Johnson and Sarah Reid joined her on the scoresheet. Rochelle Buick was another player to score a hat-trick, for Banbury Utd as they beat City Belles 4-2, Cynthia Rodrigues netting Banbury's other goal. Marlow also progressed to the last eight with a 2-1 victory over Newbury Ladies & Girls. One match was played in the Premier Division and it saw Bracknell Town return to the top with a 2-1 victory over Oxford City, goals coming from Tracy Corkett and Amy Davies. West Midlands League Solihull Ladies ran out 7-1 winners over Wednesfield Town to maintain their lead of ten points at the top of the Premier Division. Hereford Pegasus pipped Cannock by the odd goal in seven to stay in second place, one point ahead of Leamington Lions who defeated Stratford Town 3-0. Lichfield Diamonds meanwhile cemented themselves in fifth with a 2-0 victory against Allscott. In Division One North, Wyrley Ladies have gone six points clear after winning 3-1 away to Silverdale. A win would have taken Walsall into second but they were held to a 3-3 draw by Cresswell Wanderers. The mid-table battle between Cottage Farm Rangers and Coseley Town ended goalless whilst Port Vale and Shifnal Harriers also finished level at 3-3. Things remain tight in Division One South where Malvern Town won 5-1 at KGV to preserve their two point lead over Coventry Development who beat Redditch Utd 4-2. Coventry Sphinx netted six without reply past Crusaders to stay third and B & WM Police bounced back from their defeat the previous week to win 6-1 away to Ferndale. Knowle are looking good for a mid-table place after they defeated Marston Green 2-1.
Leeds United are launching a brand new Hall of Fame, celebrating the many players and members of staff who have worked with the club since it was formed in 1989. Inaugural inductees will be honoured at a special fundraising dinner at Elland Road on Friday 23 March. The list of inductees will be announced shortly before the dinner, and the club is inviting fans to share memories of their favourite players and moments, through the club's web site as well as through Twitter and Facebook. "One thing you become aware of when you join the club is the depth of talent that has worn the Leeds United Ladies shirt over the years," said Steve Russell, club Chairman. "Players with international careers chose to play for us and we have a great Centre of Excellence nursing the stars of the future, some of whom have also gone on to greater things. "Off the field, too, we have benefited from some of the best managers and coaches around, which is a tribute to the professionalism that runs through the club as a whole. "It's absolutely right that we celebrate the successes we've had together over the years and acknowledge those who achieved legendary status among our fans and fellow players, which is why we're launching the Hall of Fame." Tickets for the dinner, priced at £40 each or £380 for a table of 10, are now on sale online in the club's shop at www.leedsunitedladies.com/shop and can also be bought at the club's next two scheduled home fixtures, against Sunderland on Sunday 12 February and against Leeds City Vixens on Sunday 11 March.
 Three England players could earn their 100th cap in early March after being named in Hope Powell's squad for the Cyprus Cup. England will face Finland (28 February), Switzerland (1 March) and France (4 March) in this annual friendly tournament in Larnaca, matches which could allow midfielder Fara Williams (98 caps) and defenders Casey Stoney, who has captained England throughout their Euro 2013 qualifying campaign, and Rachel Unitt (both 97) to reach that special triple figure landmark. "They all broke into the senior squad at pretty much the same time and it has been nice seeing them mature and grow as players," said Hope of the expectant trio. "If you look at Casey, she didn't kick a ball in the 2005 Euros but she worked really, really hard and she is now the captain. "I have to applaud all three, though," she continued. "They've all got different qualities, they've all done exceptionally well to get this far and they are all still in a position to have an impact on games. "Getting to 100 caps is no mean feat in any sport, so credit to them for putting themselves in that position." While there is still no place for regular captain Faye White, who continues her recovery following knee surgery, Anita Asante returns to the squad for the first time since the World Cup as does Sue Smith, who last appeared for England at last season's Cyprus Cup. There is no place for Rachel Yankey however, due to a hamstring complaint. This year's Cyprus Cup comprises three groups of four teams, with England drawn in Group A. "The priority isn't really a focus on exactly who we are playing, although all three of our group games will undoubtedly be tough, particularly France," said Hope. "This tournament is more about giving me an opportunity to look at the players and see how they cope in a tournament environment. "After [a training camp in] La Manga [in January] the competition for places is quite fierce now. We've got players coming back from injury, some other players are now injured which gives other players an opportunity, so it's a really good chance to assess players over a good period of time to see how they do, particularly with the Euro qualifiers coming up again. The attitude and work ethic in La Manga was very, very good and hopefully we can build on that in Cyprus. "Everybody will play some part, all being well." On Monday evening, the Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) league in America announced its intention to suspend the 2012 playing season, due to a legal dispute over the ownership of the South Florida franchise. Three England internationals, Alex Scott, Anita Asante and Kelly Smith, did ply their trade in the States but Hope, who expressed sympathy for the current situation, does not believe it will prove a hindrance to her England preparations. "It's really disappointing that the league has experienced problems again, both for the League itself, the clubs and the players involved. "But I've spoken to our girls that are based in America and told them not to panic. They've only just been told [about the WPS situation] and they need a bit of time to take it in. But they are all good players and clubs will want them. And the most important thing is that they want to play." After Cyprus, England will resume their Euro 2013 qualifying campaign against Croatia on 31 March. "The priority is to qualify for the Euros and our next qualifier is approaching, so the Cyprus Cup will give us a great opportunity to prepare for that game," said Hope. England squad:
Colchester United's nationally renowned Female Academy Programme will be holding an open day and trial for prospective 2012-13 season student athletes on Tuesday 6th March 2012 at Thurstable School and Sports College in Tiptree, Essex. The all day event will involve presentations by the management and coaching staff, Thurstable faculty, an informal discussion with current Academy players, a tour of the school and facilities and a training session and trial match in the afternoon. Current British Colleges National Elite League and National Cup Champions and English Schools FA Girls Under-18 National Cup winners, the Colchester United Female Academy has established itself as arguably the premier female football academy programme in the country. The programme offers full time education alongside an elite, professional level football lifestyle and benefits from: Staff: • Full time Director working towards UEFA A License • Full time Manager/Head Coach working towards UEFA A License • Full strength, conditioning and nutrition programme provided by Potentia Performance Ltd • Injury treatment and rehabilitation specialist • Individual academic tutor support • Supported by Colchester United Community Sports Trust, Colchester United Ladies FC, Thurstable School and the Football Foundation Football Programme: • Full fixture programme in British Colleges National Elite League, National Cup and English Schools FA National Cup • Daily training sessions with UEFA qualified coaches • Full strength, conditioning and nutrition programme • Close link with Colchester United Ladies FC of the FA Women's Premier League providing top level senior training and playing opportunities • End of season international tournament, past trips have included Gothia Cup, Sweden - Winners 2008, Semi-Finalist 2009 and the Copa Catalunya, Spain - Winners 2010 & 2011 Academic: • Full range of academic courses available, A-levels, B-tec, GCSE and re-sits • Opportunity to take FA Coaching Courses (Level 1 & 2) • Individual tutor support • Work experience places in the sports industry • Homestay provision available for non-local students Exit Routes: • University - the vast majority of participants achieve the required qualifications to go on to further education • Football scholarships to American Colleges • Full time employment in the sports industry • International honours • FA Women's Premier League The Colchester United Female Academy is committed to developing and enhancing the lives of talented individuals both on and off the pitch and in the process continuing the tremendous success, accomplishments and tradition of the programme. As such, any young female footballer between the ages of 16 to 18 with a good playing background, a strong desire to succeed both on the pitch and in the classroom and a willingness to meet the high standards required is invited to attend our open day on: Tuesday 6th March, 9.00am to 3.00pm Thurstable School & Sports College Tiptree, Colchester, Essex CO5 0EW To express an interest and book your place at the open day please contact: Kevin Anderson, Director of Female Football, CUCST Tel: (07809) 195001 Email: kanderson@cucst.org.uk www.colchesterunitedladiesfc.com
UEFA have announced the Olympiastadion in Munich as the venue for this season's biggest event in European women's club football, the UEFA Women's Champions League Final, to be played on Thursday 17 May. German women's football legend Steffi Jones, Director of Girls & Women's football at the German Football Association (DFB) and UEFA's Women's Football Development ambassador will be a key driver in raising the profile of the event. A number of activities centred around Munich including a ticket sale launch, the UWCL cup handover and a trophy tour will form part of her promotional campaign. Steffi Jones said: "I am proud to be the ambassador of the match that is the highlight in the European women's club football calendar. We need club competitions at the highest level, such as the UEFA Women's Champions League, to further develop the women's game around Europe. I am sure the final will be a great success and Germany is looking forward to welcoming the finalist teams to Munich in May." The 2011-12 UEFA Women's Champions League Final will kick off at 18:00 CET with an early kick off time making the event more family friendly. UEFA Director of Competitions Giorgio Marchetti said: "UEFA is happy to be able to reach out to the ever-growing women's football fan base, especially the youngest among them. We believe the 6pm kick off will further attract families and children to the stadium." Munich will follow Getafe (Madrid) and London as the third host of the UEFA Women's Champions League since the UEFA Women's Cup was relaunched as the UEFA Women's Champions League in 2009-10. The Munich Olympiastadion was built as the main venue for the 1972 Summer Olympics. With an original capacity of 80,000, the stadium has also hosted many major football matches, including the 1974 FIFA World Cup Final and the final of the UEFA European Football Championship in 1988. The UEFA European Champions Clubs' Cup Final in 1979 and the UEFA Champions League finals in 1993 and 1997 were also played at the stadium. This season's quarter finals will kick off with the first-leg matches on 14-15 March. The clubs facing each other are: WFC Malmö (SWE) - 1. FFC Frankfurt (GER), Olympique Lyonnais (FRA) - Brøndby IF (DEN), 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam (GER) - FC Rossiyanka (RUS) and Arsenal Ladies FC (ENG) - Göteborg FC (SWE). The finalist clubs will be known on 22 April.
Barnet began their defence of the Premier League Cup in winning fashion with a 3-0 success away to Tottenham Hotspur. Cheryl Williams scored twice and Danielle Murphy the other to give the Bees the points against their opponents who were making their debut in the competition. Barnet sit on top of Group Four with a lead of two points over Colchester Utd and West Ham Utd, who shared a 1-1 draw in the other game. Maegan Doyle netted for Colchester and Tracey Duxbury was on target for the Hammers. Last season's beaten Finalists Nottingham Forest also began with a victory, a hard earned 2-1 success at Leicester City. On a heavy surface, both teams battled hard in a frantic East Midlands derby. Destiney Toussaint's shot was well saved by Forest keeper Claire Wallhead early on but the Foxes nosed in front when Issy Hayes struck home a fierce shot from 20 yards. Suzanne Davies went close for the visitors before Forest drew level as Andi Bell drove home the equaliser. The second half ebbed and flowed with both defences on top but with two minutes remaining, former Leicester striker Natasha Meade broke the deadlock when she tucked her shot past Nicola Van de Weerdhoff. Blackburn Rovers are the early leaders of Group One after Kim Turner, Nicky Twohig and Hannah Forster gave them a 3-0 win over Rochdale. Manchester City also opened up with a victory, 4-2 away to Preston North End. Krystle Johnston (2), Abbie McManus and Carly Bayley were on target for City, with the home side replying through Hannah Bailey and Gemma Watson. Portsmouth hit the highest score of the day when netting seven without reply past Plymouth Argyle. Charley Wilson and Shelly Cox put Pompey two ahead inside the opening ten minutes, before Jemma Tewkesbury and Leeta Rutherford added further goals ahead of half time. Wilson went on to complete a hat-trick in the second half, the third coming from the penalty spot, and Lucy Quinn rounded off the scoring with eight minutes left. Portsmouth lead the way in Group Three on goal difference from Reading FC Women, who defeated Keynsham Town 3-1. Royals goal machine Nikki Watts inflicted the damage by scoring all three goals, two from the penalty spot. Charlton Athletic also had a good day in front of goal, running out 6-2 winners over Brighton & Hove Albion in Group Four. An early strike from Ellie Bailes was cancelled out by Kim Stenning but a second half hat-trick by Gemma Bryan took the game out of Brighton's reach. Jenny Newman and Fliss Gibbons also found the net for the Addicks, with Brighton's other strike coming from Kirsty Barton. The other match in the group finished all square as Millwall Lionesses and Queen's Park Rangers battled out a 1-1 draw. Charlotte Gurr netted for the Lionesses, with Sophie Fogarty on target for Rangers. In Group Seven, Cardiff City came away from Sporting Club Albion with a 2-0 victory, thanks to a brace of goals from Bethan Lloyd (see match report).
Wrexham opened up a six point lead at the top of the Northern Conference in the Welsh Premier Women's League with a 3-1 win away to Caernarfon Town. Lyndsey Rogers, Lexi Musgrove and Steph Taylor scored the goals to take Wrexham a step closer towards winning their section whilst Caernarfon, who have reached the Final in each of the previous two seasons, look set to miss out this time despite a consolation from Katie Williams. Meanwhile there was a change of leadership in the Southern Conference as an inactive Swansea City were overtaken by UWIC, who took over at the top courtesy of a 3-1 victory over Newcastle Emlyn. Emily Allen and Nadia Lawrence put the students two ahead by half time and although Amanda John pulled a goal back for Newcastle Emlyn fifteen minutes from time, Sophie Scherschel wrapped up the points for UWIC with the third goal. Trefelin came away from Caerphilly Castle with a 3-2 after having trailed at the interval. Natasha Harding put the home side in front with Jessica Wadey levelling, before Terri Thomas restored Caerphilly's lead two minutes before the break. Cath Walsh equalised midway through the second half and with five minutes left, Natalie Ashford settled matters in Trefelin's favour.
 Scotland coach Anna Signeul has named her squad for their first international of 2012. Scotland travel to Belfast for an International Challenge match against Northern Ireland, as both sides prepare for the 12-team Cyprus Women's Cup, set to kick off at the end of February. This will be Scotland's first match since their 2-2 draw with Wales in their UEFA Championships qualifying group match back in October. Glasgow City striker Lisa Evans, who has been offered a trial by German giants FFC Turbine Potsdam, has received further good news by being added to the squad as the only uncapped player. The match takes place at Cliftonville FC on Sunday 5th February (2pm). Scotland squad:
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