Jammers Overcome Gt Bradfords in the Essex County League Cup
Jody Buckley’s side returned to action after a weather-enforced break, that has played havoc with the Women’s schedule. Wednesday’s cup-action against Great Bradford’s was the first outing since 25th January. Buckley handed to starts to Libby Keeler and Rianna Everett, as the team were led out by Captain, Stef Paci.
From the outset, the Jammers looked dangerous on the break and had it not of been for a few tight offside calls against Holly Moore, Maldon may have taken the lead inside the first ten minutes. It looked as if the team had never been away from the pitch…
With rotation substitutes an option, Jody took full advantage of getting much needed minutes into his sides legs. The Great Bradford Keeper was in fine form and produced a number of saves, to deny AJ and Becky Gallacher, with the Jammers attack frustrated for the opening thirty minutes.
The Jammers continued to go close and eventually, their dominance was rewarded in the 41st minute, with Gallacher opening the account for the evening. Evie Payne provided the assist, as Gallacher controlled the ball before unleashing an effort from outside the box into the bottom corner, beyond the helpless Goalkeeper.
In to added time and the first goal was soon followed by a second, the dangerous AJ was once again on the scoresheet. A cute through ball released AJ who latched on nicely and without hesitation, chipped her effort over the on- rushing goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
Half time, the Jammers were ahead by two goals to-nil.
Under the lights at the Drewitt-Barlow Stadium, Buckley continued to rotate his side with all sixteen in the squad playing important parts in the match. Holly Moore was a consistent threat down the left flank and almost provided an assist, but Keeler couldn’t quite control the ball and the Bradford defence survived.
In front of a 100+ crowd, AJ was introduced from the bench and after a matter of minutes, she had her second of the match. With the Jammers awarded a free-kick from around twenty five yards, it looked like there was only ever one-taker. AJ was that taker and she made no mistake, a beautiful-unstoppable curling effort sailed past the Goalkeeper and the Jammers place in the next round of the competition looked all but confirmed.
Inside the last ten minutes, the visitors had their first effort on goal, albeit didn’t test Sophie Drake in the Jammers goal- on the eve of her birthday! Moments later, AJ thought she had secured her hat-trick, only to be denied by a very-tight offside call. As the final whistle approached, the Jammers sealed the contest with their fourth goal. AJ turned provider this time, playing in Brooke Wright. Wright twisted and turned, before striking her effort at goal – the Goalkeeper got a touch, but could only deflect the ball into the back of the net.
Full time, the Jammers were dominant winners – 4-0.
Next up for Jody’s side is a return to league action, once again under the lights at the DBS. Brightlingsea Regent Ladies are the next visitors, on Wednesday 4 March 2026 – 19:45 kick off! The match is free to watch, make sure you come down and support the girls…
Match report written by Richard Buckby, published on Thursday 26 February 2026.
