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 England defender Lindsay Johnson was satisfied with the outcome of this week's Euro 2009 draw and admits that the England squad are looking forward to the challenge next summer.England were drawn in the same group as Sweden, Russia and Italy and Lindsay told Women's Soccer Scene: "It's a tough group, but I have looked at all three and none of them are easy. "If you have qualified for the Finals, that makes you a good side and there are some good teams who will not be there. We knew whoever we got would be tough but we can be happy with the group - it is nice to miss Germany though!" The standout match for England will be the one against Sweden, which is sure to conjure up memories of the clash in Euro 2005 which the Swedes won 1-0 to knock the host nation out. "We play Sweden quite regularly," says Lindsay, "they are good games and it is one to look forward to. We have come on a long way in the four years since we played them at Blackburn. "We played Sweden last year in Cyprus and did well - they are always really strong and well organised but we have come on and are competing physically with these teams now, and we are just as good if not better than a lot of sides technically. No doubt the Arsenal players are looking forward to that one! "Italy will be looked at as the weakest team in the group and maybe it is a good thing that we play them first. A win would be great for our confidence as it is important you get points in your first game, but we shall not be underestimating them at all. We cannot discount Russia either as they are an up and coming side with a lot of very good young players. "It is good that the draw has now been done and it is very exciting. We have a lot planned for after Christmas and things will start running from there. We can take the experience from our qualifying group and put it to our advantage when the Finals begin." Lindsay herself had a fine campaign during the qualifiers and has gone from a player who was originally not selected for the World Cup (she replaced the injured Steph Houghton) to being a first choice in the side which made it through to Finland. "I had a good season with Everton and it has paid off," she admits. "I managed to force my way into the team after a number of substitute appearances - Faye (White) got injured and I stepped into her shoes and really enjoyed it. Hopefully I can keep it going this season both for club and country." After England reached the quarter finals of the World Cup last year, Lindsay is aware that there may be more expectation on the team to do well in the Finals. "People will probably expect us to do better as the media coverage improved during the World Cup," she said. "Other teams are going to expect it from us as well. "We think more of ourselves as a team now and put pressure on us to do better each time. Now we want to prove ourselves and this is a great opportunity for us to do so."
Guiseley produced a huge shock in their delayed First Round tie as they defeated Northern Combination opponents Peterlee Town 4-1. Sarah Dunn, Faye Shipman, Jo Sigley and Kat Naismith all netted a goal apiece for the North East League side who are now at home to Derby County in the Second Round. The Rams booked their place with a 4-0 victory over Mansfield Town. Phallon Barker and Emily Jeffery gave Derby a two-goal lead at half time and they added further strikes after the break through Maria Wayne and Leanne Abbey. One of the seven ties went all the way to penalties before finally being decided. Leafield Athletic and West Bromwich Albion battled out a 3-3 draw after extra time before Leafield triumphed 5-3 from the resulting spot kicks to book themselves a home tie with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Leeds City Vixens saw off the challenge of Crewe Alexandra with a 4-0 victory. Ruth Cockerill scored twice, with Sarah Dobby and Stacey Daniel adding the others for Leeds who are now at home to Bradford City. Blackpool Wren Rovers came away from Morley Spurs with a 4-2 victory and now face Rochdale. Carla Loughran (2), Jody Palmer and Debbie Standring were all on target for Blackpool. Norwich City were given a hard battle by AFC Wimbledon before eventually progressing through with a 1-0 victory, Bex Burton scoring the only goal of the game to earn the Canaries a trip to Enfield Town. Havant & Waterlooville maintained their winning run as they saw off the challenge of Barking with a 2-0 win. Sam Stone gave the Hawks the lead in the opening minute and Chelsea Owton wrapped up the game with eleven minutes remaining.
 England opened up their FIFA World Under-20 Cup campaign with an excellent 2-0 victory over hosts Chile in Coquimbo.Two second half goals were enough to give Mo Marley's side the points in front of a crowd of 15,045 at the Estadio Francisco Sanchez Rumoroso. England were dealt a blow as Leeds Carnegie duo Sophie Bradley and Sophie Walton were ruled out through injury but still produced a solid all round team display. The first half was played at a quick pace and both goalkeepers were tested as Rebecca Spencer needed to deal with a one-on-one from Daniela Zamora while at the other end, Toni Duggan was denied by a great save from Claudia Endler. England made the all-important breakthrough and silenced the home crowd on 54 minutes, Jessica Clarke crossing for Brooke Chaplen to head home. Chile pressed forward to try and get back on level terms but England defended very well and they sewed up the win with ten minutes remaining via a counter attack from which Duggan beat Endler from long range. England: Rebecca Spencer, Steph Houghton, Claire Rafferty, Danielle Buet (sub Rachel Williams 64mins), Fern Whelan, Chelsea Weston, Toni Duggan (sub Jade Moore 87mins), Remi Allen, Natasha Dowie, Brooke Chaplen, Jessica Clarke. Subs not used: Ashley Baker, Helen Alderson, Gilly Flaherty, Kerys Harrop, Becky Hall, Michelle Hinnigan. Chile: Claudia Endler, Valentina Lefort, Tatiana Perez, Karen Araya, Nathalie Quezada, Daniela Zamora, Daniela Pardo, Juanita Pena (sub Maryorie Hernandez 90mins), Maria Mardones, Geraldine Leyton, Daniela Fuenzalida (sub Pamela Coihuin 71mins). Subs not used: Romina Parraguirre, Karla Ureta, Javiera Guajardo, Cyntia Aguilar, Dominique Hisis, Andrea Zuniga, Carol Negron, Valeska Baigorri.
England have been drawn in with Hungary, Spain and Finland in the Second Qualifying Round for the 2009 UEFA Under-19 Championships. Meanwhile Wales may have a chance of getting through their group which also comprises of France, Azerbaijan and Portugal. The matches for the Second Qualifying Round will be played from 23-28 April. The six group winners and the runners-up with the best record against the sides first and third in their pool will join hosts Belarus in the Finals from 13-25 July.
England will face two familiar opponents in the Second Qualifying Round of the UEFA Under-17 Championships in March. Lois Fidler's side will be up against the Czech Republic and Belgium, who they faced at the same stage last season, as well as Spain. Wales, who are through to this stage for the first time, will travel to Holland where they will play the hosts as well as France and Denmark in a tough looking group. Only the group winners will qualify for the Finals in Nyon, Switzerland, which will take place from 22-25 June 2009.
 Gymnasium's manager Mark Reid once said that he wouldn't swap his central midfield partnership of Kim Carney and Rachel Beckley with anyone else. From last Sunday's performance, you can understand why as they both found the net when defeating Castletown 4-1 in the Isle of Man League and confining the southerners to another season of Second Division football. But it must have been the team performance overall that must have pleased Reid. From the outset, the Tromode side meant business with Beckley diligently anchoring the midfield while Carney was everywhere and the diagonal runs of forwards Elaine Wiseman and Dawn Quinn quickly cut the visiting defence to shreds. It was the Gymnasium sister act that combined for the opening goal on 10 minutes, Zoe's pass from deep found Kim who burst away from the opposing defensive wall and guide her shot into the bottom left. Castletown hit back with Pippa Davies curling narrowly wide of the upright and Sarah Denny's long range effort was collected by Rose Ozga but Gymnasium continued to dictate proceedings, a second goal arriving on 31 minutes. A Carney throw was flicked on by Beckley's head at the near post and the ball went across goal, nestling just inside the far stanchion. The sister act was at it again, Kim collecting another deep pass from Zoe, her pace got the better of defender Sharon Whitehouse before she was clipped in the opposing penalty area and referee Anthony Quayle blew for a penalty, however Quinn drove the spot kick straight at Coulthurst. Wiseman hit the post for Gymns but Carney spared Quinn's blushes scoring their third, a move involving Quinn and Zoe Carney was perfectly finished by Kim when she bamboozled an opposing defender, working the shooting opportunity before drilling in at the near post. But Castletown gave the hosts something to think about, pulling a goal back before half time. Kim Watson's ball over the top found Tricia Fleming in acres of space to steer past a horizontal Ozga. The visitors started after the interlude in determined mood with Davies narrowly lifting her effort over the bar and livewire Kim Watson going close on three occasions, her first struck the post, the second drew out an excellent save following an angled shot and the third went narrowly wide. But Gymnasium continued to create openings too with Quinn twice just missing the target and they wrapped up proceeding with a fourth, Beckley's ball over the top freed Carney again, her initial shot was repelled but she followed up to make sure. Colby collected a rare win this season after defeating Laxey 1-0. The breakthrough came in the first half when Alice Leadbeater's free kick on the right found Laxey's Rebecca Kirk who headed across her own goal for Nikki Cooil to slot home. Colby enjoyed more of the possession, although Laxey did come close to equalising when Rhiannon Brew's effort hit the woodwork. Douglas Royal were given a good run for their money but came out 2-0 winners over Peel. The current champions took the lead before half time when Bekki Cole blasted a 20-yard effort that flew in just under the bar. Peel had an excellent chance to level matters when they were awarded a penalty following a handball, however Emma Faulkner struck her kick against the bar. Peel were left to rue this missed opportunity when Donna Shimmin fired home their second on 83 minutes from a tight angle. Rushen Utd clocked up their biggest win of the season by defeating Michael Utd 17-0. Leading 4-0 at half-time, Donna Harrison (7), Siobhann Lockwood (4), Dawn Georgeson (3), Hannah Biggerstaff, Sam Macdonald, and Hannah Griffiths - who scored her first goal for her new club with an 18-yard strike - found the net for the southerners. Corinthians also hit double figures with a 19-0 win over Ramsey. Jade Burden helped herself to ten goals while Leonie Roberts, Sarah Kerford and Anna Dillon all contributed doubles. Stephanie Hall, Jane Bottomley and Lauren Christian also hit the net for the Noble's Park outfit. The match also marked two milestones with Jade Burden becoming the first Corinthians' player to score over 100 goals and their tenth goal (scored by Jade) was the 500th goal in the club's history. (Report by Paul Hatton)
 The GB Deaf Women's Football team is seeking for fixtures, Ideally against University or middle league teams. They are looking forward to fulfilling the following dates in 2009 with matches against Clubs in the Midlands area and beyond, located throughout the whole country, and would like to play games on the following dates - 8th February 2009, 15th March 2009, 12th April 2009, 28th June 2009 or 12th July 2009. If your football club or team is interested in hosting a game against the GB Deaf Women's football team, please contact the team Secretary Claire Harvey at bimblepoppop@mac.com. Claire said: "The weekends comprise of training on the Saturday, a team meeting and then the game on the Sunday. It is always the same schedule but we try to move the venues around the country to allow everyone to get there." The Team is made up of players from around the all four corners of the country and are self funded with players having to fund their own travelling and accommodation expenses in order to play games. For more information on the GB Deaf Women's Football Team you can visit the team's website at http://www.britishdeaffootball.com/?fid=189.
 It was a good day for Celtic as they opened up a lead of eight points at the top of the Scottish Women's Premier League with an impressive 8-0 victory over FC Kilmarnock.The Hoops never looked back after Joanne Love volleyed them into the lead and further goals before half time came from Lauren MacMillan and Becky Stokes. After the break, MacMillan went on to complete a hat-trick and she was joined on the scoresheet by Pauline Hamill, Christie Murray and Jennifer Beattie. There was further good news for Celtic as their two main rivals for the title, Spartans and Glasgow City, battled out a 1-1 draw as they faced each other. In a repeat of the Premier League Cup Final from the previous weekend, Glasgow looked to be on their way to another victory as Ruesha Littlejohn put them in front with ten minutes remaining but Spartans hit back to earn themselves a share of the spoils through a neat lob from Debbie McWhinnie. Hibernian kept up their recent good form as they ran out 8-0 winners over Raith Rovers to keep themselves in third place. Laura Kennedy led the scoring with a hat-trick with Joelle Murray, Mandy Burns, Kirsty McBride, Suzanne Grant and Lisa Robertson all contributing a goal for Hibs who are dragging themselves back into the race. Honours were even in the other two SWPL matches played on Sunday. Aberdeen and Hamilton Academicals finished level at 2-2 whilst Forfar Farmington and Dundee Utd SC shared six goals. Caren Webster gave Forfar a tenth minute lead but United were quickly on level terms through Laura Boag. Webster then produced a sweet left foot volley to put Forfar back in front ahead of the interval. Boag equalised on the hour mark before completing her hat-trick seven minutes later to put United ahead for the first time, but Forfar responded well and earned themselves a point when Tracy Brogan scored from close range. This Sunday, league leaders Celtic make the trip to Boroughmuir Thistle whilst second placed Spartans are away to Dundee Utd SC. All of the top four are in fact on their travels this weekend, Hibernian go to FC Kilmarnock and Glasgow City visit Raith Rovers. Hamilton Academicals play host to Forfar Farmington in an important match at the other end of the table.
The draw for the UEFA Women's Euro 2009 has been made in Helsinki this afternoon and England have been drawn in Group C. The Finals kick off in Helsinki on 23 August next year, but Hope Powell's side now know who they will face in Finland when they take to the field for their opener on 25 August. England were the last team to be drawn out and were put into Group C along with Sweden, Russia and Italy. "Sweden will be tough, and we know that they will probably be considered favourites in the group," said Hope Powell after the draw. "They are a tradiitional power, consistently ranked highly in the world and always perform well at major tournaments. We regard them highly and have learned a lot from their infrastructure. However, we are closing the gap. "Russia and Italy are fast developing and bringing through good young players, as shown by the good performances of their youth teams. We will now focus on our preparation and scouting our opponents. We are still developing as a team and this tournament will be another test for us in terms of our progress." England's first match will be against Italy in Lahti on 25 August. They will then meet Russia in Helsinki Football Stadium on 28 August before rounding off their group games against Sweden in Turku on 31 August. The Three Lions last met Sweden in a friendly in Cyprus in February this year, losing 2-0. The nations also met at Euro 2005 in Blackburn, with the Swedes edging that group game 1-0 to send England out. They had a better result in their last encounter with Russia - a 6-0 victory at Milton Keynes National Hockey Stadium in March 2007. You have to go way back to February 2005 for the last meeting between England and Italy. That game, which was also in Milton Keynes finish 4-1 in the home sides favour. At next summer's Championship, the top two sides from each group will go into the Quarter-Finals along with the two best third-placed teams. Current holders Germany are in a group with Iceland, Norway and France, while hosts Finland will entertain Ukraine, Denmark and Holland. Euro 2009 draw:
Fixture schedule: Sun 23 August: Finland v Denmark (Olympic Stadium, Helsinki) Sun 23 August: Ukraine v Holland (Turku Stadium, Turku) Mon 24 August: Germany v Norway (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Mon 24 August: Iceland v France (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Tue 25 August: Sweden v Russia (Turku Stadium, Turku) Tue 25 August: England v Italy (Lahti Stadium, Lahti) Wed 26 August: Holland v Finland (Olympic Stadium, Helsinki) Wed 26 August: Ukraine v Denmark (Helsinki Football Stadium, Helsinki) Thu 27 August: France v Germany (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Thu 27 August: Iceland v Norway (Lahti Stadium, Lahti) Fri 28 August: Italy v Sweden (Turku Stadium, Turku) Fri 28 August: England v Russia (Helsinki Football Stadium, Helsinki) Sat 29 August: Finland v Ukraine (Olympic Stadium, Helsinki) Sat 29 August Denmark v Holland (Lahti Stadium, Lahti) Sun 30 August: Germany v Iceland (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Sun 30 August: Norway v France (Helsinki Football Stadium, Helsinki) Mon 31 August: Sweden v England (Turku Stadium, Turku) Mon 31 August: Russia v Italy (Olympic Stadium, Helsinki) QUARTER FINALS Thu 3 September: QF 1 - Winner A v 3rd placed B or C (Turku Stadium, Turku) Thu 3 September: QF 4 - Runner-up A v Runner-up B (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Fri 4 September: QF 2 - Winner B v Runner-up C (Lahti Stadium, Lahti) Fri 4 September: QF 3 - Winner C - 3rd placed A or B (Helsinki Football Stadium, Helsinki) SEMI FINALS Sun 6 September: Winner QF1 v Winner QF 4 (Tampere Stadium, Tampere) Mon 7 September: Winner QF 2 v Winner QF 3 (Helsinki Football Stadium, Helsinki) FINAL Thu 10 September: Winner Semi FInal 1 v Winner Semi Final 2 (Olympic Stadium, Helsinki)
Arsenal returned to the top of the National Division on goal difference after they ran out 5-0 winners over Nottingham Forest. Rachel Yankey set them on their way by giving them an eighth minute lead and Kelly Smith added a double before half time. After the break, Katie Chapman increased the Gunners' lead and Julie Fleeting completed the scoring, three minutes from time. Bristol Academy staged a great second half fightback to earn themselves a 3-3 draw away to Watford. The home side took a fifth minute lead through Helen Lander but Academy levelled on the half hour when Katie Daley scored her first goal for the club. After the break, Lander and Lisa Burrows gave Watford a 3-1 lead but Academy, five of whose players were playing their third game in five days, pulled a goal back through Grace McCatty and a Burrows own goal six minutes from time earned them a share of the spoils.
Southern Division leaders Charlton Athletic suffered a setback as they went down to a 1-0 defeat at home to Barnet. Former Addicks player Danielle Murphy netted the only goal of the game on the half hour against her old club. The result lifts Barnet into third place, seven points behind Charlton but with two games in hand. In the Northern Division, OOH Lincoln got their challenge back on track by scoring nine without reply against Rotherham Utd. Amanda Barr gave the Lady Imps the lead after two minutes and the England striker went on to score four in total as did Jodie Michalska, with Megan Harris completing the tally.
 Wales captain Jayne Ludlow was delighted with her side's 1-1 draw in the second of their friendly double header with Finland at Port Talbot."For us it's a step forward," she told Women's Soccer Scene. "We were disappointed with the early goal, it was poor defending by defence and midfield to be honest, but to get the goal back and keep it at 1-1 was a great result for us. "We've got to start games a bit quicker and, to be fair, the second half was the same but there is a lot to build on and positives to take. We're looking at the back and not leaking goals and we can look at our attacking aspects in the future. "We've got good youngsters in the team now who can play with the ball at their feet and we just need to do that from the first minute now, relax on the ball and play." Jayne scored Wales' second half equaliser when heading in a free kick by Jessica Fishlock. "I was a bit surprised at their defending because I was actually unmarked," she smiled. "It was a great ball from Jess, I love playing in the same team as her as I know she is going to find me, but I was just glad to pop it in. "The fitness of the girls is getting better and concentration levels are improving in the last ten minutes of the game. In the past, they might have scored a few goals in the last ten minutes, but we are more switched on now and it was a good all round performance." Jessica Fishlock was also pleased with the scoreline. "It was a good result and we're all happy with it," she said. "We had a few setpieces and we needed to make the most of them. Sometimes I hit a good ball and no-one is in there and sometimes there are plenty there and my delivery is not so good but when it comes to plan, you get a great goal and it was a good header by Jayne. "We showed the character we needed to get back into the game this time. We've got good creative players who can get a goal and we did so and held on to it, which is brilliant. "I really like playing alongside Jayne - it's not just the fact that she's a fantastic player but we understand each other and can rely on each other. Even just to have her back in the camp is brilliant, not just for me but for all of the girls as she just brings that confidence and self belief which we need. We're all grateful that she played today after all that travelling yesterday (from Sweden). "Lauren Townsend is a really good girl to be brought through - it's her first start and a good game to get under her belt. The whole back four were superb today, we get the odd lapse in concentration but when they get it together, they are hard to break down. It's just good to see that we are compact and strong when defending - hopefully in the next couple of months we can work on our attacking and when we get that right, we'll be a force to be reckoned with. "Overall, I am really pleased with the two games. We learnt things from the Wednesday game that we took into this one, now we just need to fine tune things and when we do it, it will be good. "We're looking a different team and looking to play a different way and as a nation and a team we're really proud and happy."
 DPR Korea became the inaugural winners of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup by coming from behind to beat the United States 2-1 after extra time in Auckland.In front of a crowd of 16,162, it was the Americans who went ahead after just two minutes, as a long throw from Cloee Colohan was misjudged by Korean goalkeeper Hong Myong Hui and she helped the ball into her own net. For a long time it looked as though the USA would hold out but with fourteen minutes remaining, Korea drew level. Ri Un Ae crashed a 30-yard free kick against the bar, a scramble ensued and Kim Un Hyang was on hand to head in the equaliser. The game went into extra time and it was substitute Jang Hyon Sun who emerged as Korea's hero as she drove home the winning goal from the edge of the area, six minutes from time.
 England's FIFA Under-17 World Cup campaign came to an end as Germany dominated to take the bronze medal in their third-place play-off encounter with a 3-0 victory in Auckland.Both sides were disappointed to have missed out on the Final, but it was the Germans who made up for it in a fairly one-sided affair. Despite their best efforts, Lois Fidler's side rarely threatened the German goal. The game started brightly with Inka Wesely ghosting in unmarked to head home a Dzsenifer Marozsan corner after just eleven minutes. Germany were firmly in control at this stage and would have doubled their lead six minutes from the break but for an excellent save from Lauren Davey to deny Marozsan at point blank range. England's best effort came in the shape of a late, long range Jordan Nobbs effort that crashed back off the bar, but generally it was one-way traffic, with the European champions deservedly doubling their lead after 74 minutes. Again, England failed to contain Wesely at a corner, and the big defender was able to knock down for Turid Knaak to sweep the ball into the net from close range. There was even time for Germany to increase their advantage in the dying minutes, Lynn Mester scoring at the second attempt following some terrific approach play from Carolin Simon. England: Lauren Davey, Jodie Jacobs, Gemma Bonner, Rebecca Jane (sub Kirsty Linnett 71mins), Jordan Nobbs, Danielle Carter, Lucy Staniforth, Lucy Bronze (sub Jemma Rose 89mins), Stephanie Marsh (sub Sarah Wiltshire 53mins), Lauren Bruton, Rachel Pitman. Subs not used: Amy Carr, Juliana Draycott, Rachel Daly, Naomi Chadwick, Paige Eli. Germany: Almuth Schult, Inka Wesely, Valeria Kleiner, Carolin Simon, Marie-Louise Bagehorn (sub Claudia Goette 70mins), Turid Knaak, Lynn Mester, Dzsenifer Marozsan, Alexandra Popp, Hasret Kayikci (sub Tabea Kemme 52mins), Leonie Maier (sub Angelina Luebcke 89mins). Subs not used: Anna Sarholz, Lisa Schmitz, Julia Debitzki, Ivana Rudelic, Nicole Rolser, Isabelle Linden, Svenja Huth.
 A second half goal from captain Jayne Ludlow earned Wales a deserved 1-1 draw in the second of their double header of friendlies with Finland at Port Talbot.After a difficult opening ten minutes, Adrian Tucker's side fully matched the Euro 2009 hosts and they will be more than satisfied with their performances over the two matches. Ludlow returned to the starting line up as captain after being on UEFA Women's Cup duty with Arsenal, whilst Lauren Townsend took over in right back spot. Finland made a fast start to the game and created the first opportunity as Essi Sainio's cross from the left was headed just wide by Susanna Lehtinen. Two minutes later and Finland were in front. Jaana Lyytikainen's pass was flicked on by Annica Sjolund for Lehtinen who tucked the ball past Nicola Davies and into the corner of the net. A Finnish corner almost led to a second goal but Linda Sallstrom's shot was charged down by Katie Daley and the danger was cleared. Wales began to settle down and enjoyed a lot of possession in the attacking half but were not finding it easy to pierce a powerful Finland defence, spearheaded by Tiina Salmen in the centre. Kerrie Manley came closest as she was inches away from reaching a Jessica Fishlock free kick. Sjolund produced a firm 20-yard strike which flew straight at Davies but it was Wales who finished the first half on top, driven forward by Ludlow, and they won a number of set piece situations that they could not quite take advantage of. As the second half began, the early chances went Finland's way as Salmen headed wide and Davies saved from a Sainio header, but Wales once again showed their growing confidence by dictating play. Wales were rewarded in the 57th minute as they were awarded a free kick near the goal line. Fishlock's cross picked out Ludlow who evaded her marker and got in front of Minna Meriluoto to plant a header into the back of the net for the equaliser. A series of substitutions, mainly by Finland, did not help the flow of the game for a period although Katri Nokso-Koivisto missed a great chance as she shot wide with only Davies to beat. This proved to be only a temporary relapse for a Welsh defence which stayed strong with Manley having a fine match and Townsend giving an impressive performance at full back. The match remained finely poised with both sides looking evenly matched and a draw was a fair result, although it took an excellent save from Davies to preserve the draw for her side in injury time and she dived low to turn away a goalbound shot from Nina Hietanen. Wales: Nicola Davies, Lauren Townsend, Natalie Holt, Kerrie Manley, Emma Jones, Katie Daley, Loren Dykes (sub Emma Plewa 71mins), Jayne Ludlow, Helen Lander (sub Cheryl Foster 81mins), Jessica Fishlock, Michelle Green. Subs not used: Rhian Nokes, Emily Hancock, Jo Edwards, Sally Wade, Alicia Powe. Finland: Minna Meriluoto, Petra Vaelma, Essi Sainio (sub Katri Nokso-Koivisto 70mins), Tuija Hyyrynen, Jaana Lyytikainen (sub Maija Saari 45mins), Tiina Salmen, Anne Makinen, Linda Sallstrom (sub Nina Hietanen 45mins), Annica Sjolund (sub Leena Puranen 66mins), Anna-Kaisa Rantanen (sub Jessica Julin 67mins), Susanna Lehtinen (sub Anna Westerlund 67mins). Subs not used: Tinja-Riika Korpela, Heidi Lindstrom.
 In conjunction with Wandsworth SSP & London FA, a Female Only JFO course was run on the 13th November at the Wandle Recreation Centre, Wandsworth. The course was a success with 13 enthusiastic young females taking part on the day. The course covered various areas that are key for young leaders starting out into the world of coaching, such as the importance of warming up and cooling down, child protection and refereeing. As a result of the JFO, the girls will be organising some small sided festivals in conjunction with Nick Miller from the Wandsworth SSP, for local school children. Emma Barnes, Women's & Girls FDO for South London says, "It was great to work with a group of keen females who are enthusiastic and willing to learn and, as a result of running this course, we will be looking to run a Female Only Level One to help them progress further up the ladder." If you would like more information on Female Coaching opportunities/courses in London please contact emma.barnes@londonfa.com.
Liverpool Feds produced one of the results of the First Round as they defeated Combination opponents Salford Sports Village 4-2 after extra time. Gemma Perischine was on target twice for the North West League side along with Lucy Holmes and Chantelle Thompson. The Feds will now be away to York City, who were already guaranteed a place in the Second Round after receiving a bye. Darlington RA were another team to knock out a side from a higher level, the North East League high fliers coming away from Scunthorpe Utd with a 2-1 victory with goals from Natalie Langham and Nicola Gray. Their reward is another tough trip, to Middlesbrough who came through a potentially tricky tie away to West Auckland Town as Sally Mallen and Steph Turnbull gave them a 2-0 win. Bradford City came away from Stockport County with a 1-0 victory in one of the ties of the round. Becky Griggs was the hero for Bradford as she netted the only goal of the game from an 89th minute penalty, which earns her side a trip to either Leeds City Vixens or Crewe Alexandra. Rochdale were another team to have been given a hard battle before progressing, 5-3 against Bury Girls & Ladies. Holly Newman and Steph Bell were each on target twice, along with Jenny Cummings. The Lancashire side will be away to the winners of the postponed tie between Morley Spurs and Blackpool Wren Rovers. Vicky Gallagher, Aileen Whelan and Caroline Moran were all on target as Wellingborough Diamonds won 3-1 away to Ebbsfleet Utd to book themselves a home tie with Leicester City LFC, who edged out Lichfield Diamonds by the odd goal in seven. TNS & Shrewsbury Town ended the Cup run of Bracknell Town with a 5-0 victory and they will face fellow Midland Combination opponents in the shape of Coventry City, who won the local derby tie 3-2 against Copsewood Coventry. Ria Baker had given Copsewood an early lead with a cross-cum-shot and an own goal levelled the scores in first half injury time. Dani Saulter put City ahead with a 30-yard strike with Kayleigh Brookes sending the game into extra time from the penalty spot. However it was City who had the final say during the extra period with her second and decisive goal. Wolverhampton Wanderers eased into the Second Round by running out 4-0 winners away to Cambridge City. Chevette Mais netted twice inside the opening ten minutes and Sarah Williams scored either side of half time to set up a local derby tie for Wolves against either Leafield Athletic or West Bromwich Albion. Stoke City kept up their good run with a 6-2 victory over Peterborough and they will be home once again in the Second Round, to Loughborough Students who were narrow 3-2 winners over Sandiacre Town for whom Alumdena Soria netted both goals. Gill Blackmore, Nichola Cable and Sam Garner scored the goals as Tottenham Hotspur notched up a 3-1 win against Oxford City to set up a home tie with Northampton Town, who defeated Bedford Ladies 4-1 thanks to doubles from Janine Holland and Nicki Robson. Kelli Oakes scored the only goal of the game as Swindon Town won 1-0 away to Maidenhead Utd and their next opponents are Luton Town, who won 3-2 at Dagenham & Redbridge. However Luton needed their full powers of recovery in order to prevent a shock as the Daggers had gone two goals ahead before Laura Day, Nicky Livingstone and Rebecca Kane turned the match in Luton's favour. Lewes notched up the biggest score of the day, netting nine without reply against Tower Hamlets. Claire Trafford bagged a hat-trick with other goals from Charlotte Bennett (2), Kirstie Spice (2), Helen Whitton and Kiera Chapman for the Sussex side who are at home to Bedford Town Bells, who beat Reading Royals 2-0 with goals from Vicky Godrum and Phillipa Copley. In one of the ties of the round, Holly Wilson, Beth Lovell and an own goal accounted for the goals as Enfield Town won 3-0 against Queen's Park Rangers and they will play the winners of the tie between Norwich City and AFC Wimbledon. They meet this week after Wimbledon won the final outstanding Third Round Qualifying tie, 3-2 away to Haringey Borough thanks to a Laura Topliss brace and Kerry Knott. Chesham Utd produced a fine result in winning 2-0 away to Welwyn Garden City to earn themselves a trip to Havant & Waterproof or Barking. Alex Rogers gave Chesham a first half lead with Lauren Nuttall adding the second. Forest Green Rovers were another side to come through a tough away trip, with a 4-2 success over Frome Town. Helen Wood scored twice along with Phil Helliwell and Charlotte King while Frome replied through Lindsey Whitton and Kate German. Rovers will now host Cheltenham Town who have receieved a bye in the draw. Team Bath were 2-0 victors against Weston St Johns in their local derby tie, thanks to goals from Kirsty Richardson and Toni Hemmings. They must now play Plymouth Argyle who stormed to an 8-2 success at Yeovil Town. 16-year-old Emily Mousley netted her first senior hat-trick and Argyle's other goals came from Chloe Roberts (2), Laura Perrett, Becky Atkins and Rhianne Parsons. Seven First Round ties are still to be decided and they are set to be played this Sunday.
Women and girls from the Second City - including an England International - enjoyed a taste of the fun that football can offer at a special event organised by Birmingham County FA in conjunction with Kick if Out. More than 50 females were given the chance to learn new skills in an all-female environment and take part in fun games during three sessions at Bordesley Green Girls School on Monday 27th October. The Girls and Women's Football Celebration Day was part of Birmingham County FA's work during Kick it Out's "Weeks of Action", celebrating diversity and inclusion within a community setting. Its aim was to inspire those who have not played football before. Karen Carney was on hand to help achieve this by answering questions on how the Birmingham-born 21-year-old had progressed from a kickabout with her friends to playing for Arsenal and England. She signed autographs and gave out goodies kindly provided by The FA and fairgame Magazine. "It was wonderful that everyone got to meet Karen," said BCFA Football Development Officer and event organiser, Heather Cowan. "The fact she has made such a success of her football career but comes from just down the road is a real inspiration! "We were delighted to welcome so many girls and women to the Celebration Day and are pleased we could provide an environment where they felt they could really get stuck in and enjoy themselves! "Everyone was provided with details of how they can carry on enjoying football on a regular basis, so who knows? We might have inspired the Karen Carneys of the future!" For more information on how you can get involved in Girls and Women's Football, please contact our Development Office by e-mailing development@birminghamfa.com or by calling (0121) 357 4278 (option 2).
 Wales goalscorer Helen Lander admitted that she was disappointed that their friendly against Finland ended in a 2-1 defeat.Two second half goals put paid to Wales' chances and she said after the game: "We had a good first half and came in 1-0 up but we didn't come out after half time and in the first ten minutes they scored their goals. Apart from that we matched them and put in a really solid display so it was really disappointing to finish on the losing side. "It was nice to tuck away the first chance I got. It was a great through ball from Jess (Fishlock), she put it on a plate for me and all I had to do was apply the finish. It was just a shame we couldn't hold on. "It's a tough role playing on my own up front but I'm enjoying it, every game is a challenge for me. The Luxembourg game was a nice way for me to start my career with Wales and this was a different challenge, a lot more physical and I saw less of the ball so it was important that when I got it, I did the right things and hopefully with each game, if I get selected, I can improve as the team does. "It will be interesting (on Friday) as both teams will know more about each other but it's a different game and we'll look to eradicate the errors that cost us today and hopefully get a win." Jessica Fishlock remained in an upbeat mood despite the result, saying: "I thought we played well. We did what we worked on in the last couple of days and they didn't break us down in the first half. We played to our strengths and counter attacked well - we got the first goal but it was just frustrating that we started the second half and within five minutes we were 2-1 down. "They probably took it up another level but that's what happens - they are ahead of us and that's where we want to be. It's the odd goal defeat which is frustrating. "When they equalised, the thing that went through our heads is "here we go again" and it does knock you back - all the hard work you've done has just gone. You try to get back into it but your heads go down and their heads go up and that's what happens when you play the better sides - they punish you. "I was pleased with the pass for goal but it doesn't matter if Helen doesn't finish it, and she finished superbly so all the credit goes to Helen really. "We'll have Jayne (Ludlow) back on Friday which boosts the team completely and we know how they play now so we'll work on it and try to counteract how they play and what they do. The main difference between the sides is their build and strength - technically I don't think there is a lot of difference as we created chances and our wingers were superb today - Loren Dykes, Cheryl Foster and Emma Plewa when she came on which goes to show, with Helen attacking and me just behind, we are dangerous. "We got a goal against a big side and were in front of them so we are improving, you have to take the positives from these kind of games."
 England's FIFA Under-17 World Cup dream is over as they were edged out 2-1 in the semi finals by DPR Korea despite a brave battle.The England team looked tired and drained after their exertions against Japan four days earlier and couldn't contain a tricky Korean side who inflicted the damage with two first half goals before Rebecca Jane renewed English hopes with a second half strike. England coach Lois Fidler was dealt a blow prior to the game as penalty hero Gemma Bonner was ruled out through injury but Jodie Jacobs was back from suspension to replace her alongside Lucy Bronze in the centre of defence in an otherwise unchanged side. England made a very bright start to the game and captain Jordan Nobbs tested Hong Myong Hui with a strike from outside the area. The England side enjoyed plenty of possession during the opening stages without really looking like threatening the Korean goal. However in the 19th minute it was Korea who went ahead with what England would consider to be a scrappy goal. Naomi Chadwick was deceived by an awkward bounce in the area and Ho Un Byol stole in, although Chadwick did well to win the ball back, the Korean striker promptly drilled in a shot which beat Lauren Davey on her near post. A miscued shot from Lucy Staniforth almost caused a problem for Hong Myong Hui who had to claim from under her bar. Back came Korea to win a corner, from which Kim Un Ju blazed a shot over. Nobbs was unlucky not to level the scores with a 25-yard strike which was brilliantly tipped over the bar by Hong Myong Hui. Minutes later England looked to have a clear penalty claim turned down by the Canadian referee as Danielle Carter appeared to be barged over by Kim Sol Hui in the area. This turned out to be an important moment as Korea went two ahead just a minute before half time. Yun Hyon Hi pulled the ball back for the line to Kim Un Hyang whose shot was touched in from close range by Jon Myong Hwa. After the break, there was a scare for England as Kim Un Hyang made a strong run in the area before being denied by a fine saving tackle from Jacobs. The resulting corner was cleared as far as Ho Un Byol whose 20-yard strike flew straight at Davey. Another key moment came as Staniforth outpaced the Korean defence before being poleaxed by the oncoming Hong Myong Hui. The challenge itself was worthy of a red card but the referee failed to show one and only a yellow was produced. Korea passed up a good chance for a third goal as the England defence hesitated from a long free kick but Jang Hyon Sun's attempted lob was a tame one and comfortable for Davey. With fifteen minutes remaining, England grabbed themselves a lifeline as Lauren Bruton slid a neat pass into the path of Rebecca Jane who coolly guided her shot past the goalkeeper to reduce the arrears. Kim Un Ju fired a shot over the bar as Korea continued to attack and keep possession as the final whistle approached. England tried their hardest to muster up another chance to try and take the game into extra time but they just could not do so and Korea closed the game out to take their place in the Final. There is still much for England to play for in this tournament as they will take on Germany in the bronze medal match - the third place play-off on Sunday. England: Lauren Davey, Rachel Daly, Naomi Chadwick (sub Stephanie Marsh 54mins), Lauren Bruton, Jodie Jacobs, Lucy Bronze, Rebecca Jane, Jordan Nobbs, Danielle Carter, Isobel Christiansen, Lucy Staniforth (sub Sarah Wiltshire 84mins). Subs not used: Amy Carr, Juliana Draycott, Jemma Rose, Rachel Pitman, Paige Eli, Kirsty Linnett. DPR Korea: Hong Myong Hui, Hyon Un Hui, Jon Hong Yon, Kim Sol Hui, Kim Un Ju, Pae Yon Hui (sub Kim Un Ju 70mins), Ho Un Byol, Jon Myong Hwa, Yun Hyon Hi (sub Jang Hyon Sun 52mins), Kim Hyon Mi, Kim Un Hyang (sub Ri Un Ae 90mins). Subs not used: Ryu Un Jong, Jo Myong Hui, Cha Ok, Jong Yu Ri, Ri Hyang Hui, Kim Su Jong, Ro Chol Ok.
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