Club Doncaster Titans edge Under-16’s Play-Off with Hornets Yellow
Under 12 glory for Bradford Wildcats in Group A; honours even in Group B

If our South Yorkshire Ability Counts Chairman Mike Stylianou had planned nail-biting finishes in the three Junior Division Tournament at Goals Sheffield last weekend, he couldn’t have done a better job.

The Under-16’s competition went to a play-off, and in the two Under-12’s tournaments, a late goal and a point separated first and second, and in the second Under-12’s group, the spoils were shared by agreement after nothing could split the three sides.

Our intrepid @SYorksACL reporters fed their summaries of the action to our website editor, Margaret Gregory, who sums up another thrilling morning.

It was thrilling stuff, but the event was subsequently overshadowed by the sad loss of one of our City Knights players, Ewan Hadfield. Ewan’s memory will be commemorated ahead of Sunday’s 7-a-side Divisional tournament at Concord Sports Centre.

The tournament also saw a minute applause for those suffering as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the players paying their respects to the victims of a cruel conflict.

In the Under-16’s competition, Hillsborough Hornets Black got off to a cracking start, winning both of their opening fixtures against welcome new-guys Barton Inclusive Hull and Sheffield DAFC Blue. Hornets Yellow had obviously had their Weetabix too, with wins over Sheffield Blue and Bradford City Amber, watched by Bradford’s coach Paul Jubb.

Paul told us, “We once again came to Sheffield with a young side and a couple of new players. We played 5 games; winning 2, drawing 1, and losing 2. All the players did amazingly; playing some great football passing and working as a team, but we forgot our shooting boots this week!”

“We missed chance after chance even against winners Club Doncaster Titans & runners up Hillsborough Hornets, but we were proud of how they played and behaved on the day! Our star player was Carter in goal, and our coaches were Paul and Stephen.”

Ambers lost out in a close battle with Club Doncaster Titans, watched by Titans John Hibbert. “In our first game against Bradford Ambers, Titans started slowly, then we started to get control,” John reported. “James scored first then they scored to make it 1 – 1. Then Ryan assisted James to make it 2 – 1 and then James scored  again, and we won 3 – 1.”

Titans stayed on for their next game, with the plucky visitors giving a good account of themselves. “It was end to end stuff until James scored,” John told us, “then James assisted Ben to score – that was good for Ben to get on the score sheet – to make it 2 – 0. Then we were getting sloppy, and they got one back, but then James got another, and we won 3 – 1.”

The close-fought derby between Hornets  Yellow and Black went the way of the Yellow side; Hornets Yellow then saw off a determined Barton Inclusive Hull. After Bradford Amber had defeated Barton Inclusive, the good-sized crowd started to wonder whether the tournament would go the full distance. For this to happen, Club Doncaster Titans would have to win their last three games to force a play-off with Hornets Yellow.

It only seems fair to leave the final words to Titans’ John Hibbert. “In game three Titans took on Sheffield FC Blue,” John explained. ”We started slow then Sheffield FC scored  making it 1 – 0 but then Danny scored to equalise at  1  – 1. “Sheffield scored again 1 – 2 then Danny assisted James to make it 2 – 2. James scored again making it 3 – 2 then Sheff FC scored again 3 – 3 and at last minute Danny assisted James to make it 4 – 3!”

“In our fourth game Titans faced Hillsborough Hornets Black,” John went on, “this was end to end then James scored making it 1 – 0. It was a good game; there was some nice football played by both teams. Thanks to Hillsborough for a very entertaining game.”

So, to a decider with Hillsborough Hornets Yellow. “This was a nail-biting game,” John reported. ” We started strong; Danny scored first then they scored  1 – 1 That was it at full time 1 – 1. And it was a winner- take- all competition.”  

“We played an extra 5 minutes against Hillsborough Hornets Yellow, because we were all equal on points. And in the match Ben scored to make it 1 – 0 then James scored so we won 2 – 0 to make Titans the winners!” 

“Well done to my goal keepers Ryan and Isaac, but it was a team effort today; so well done to our under 16’s team. I’m so proud of every one of our players;  including the guys who were not involved. So all I can say is guys thank you: without you guys, I would not be in the position I am today, so well done!”

So, its congratulations to Club Doncaster Titans and commiserations to Hornets Yellow after an enthralling tournament. All of the players received well deserved commemorative medals after a stunning day’s Under-16’s football which sees John and his Titans lift the trophy!

In the Under-12’s competition, the clubs were split into two leagues of three teams. In the first group, a late equaliser in their head to head saw Bradford Wildcats edge Hillsborough Hornets.

Paul Jubb from Bradford sums up the Wildcats day. “The Wildcats, who have struggled in the league this season, came good today and won their Divisional tournament winning twice and drawing two,” Paul told SYACL.com. ”Skye and Amber scored the goals, but Jessica was Star of the day, despite being the youngest player.”

“A big thank you to Club Doncaster Titans and Hillsborough Hornets for giving us some good games, under our coach Anna.”

Steph Hall summed up the four games for http://www.southyorkshireabilitycounts .com. 

“In game one Club Doncaster Titans drew with Bradford Wildcats. This was a good game played by both teams. It was a very close, end to end game with both teams having many chances. CDT scored first with a goal from Jacob and Kellie getting the assist. Both teams continued creating chances but were being kept out by brilliant goalkeeping displays. CDT thought they had the win, but Bradford Wildcats pulled a goal back with the last kick of the game.”

“In our second game, Titans took on Hornets Orange,” Steph added. “This was another good game played by both teams; Hillsborough pulled ahead with two goals early on, but the score was kept down by some fantastic saves from Joseph and brilliant defending. CDT started creating more chances with Jacob hitting most of the goal frame! Hillsborough’s GK then pulled off a great save to prevent Jacob scoring. Jacob then pulled a goal back for CDT by scoring from his own half! In the end Hillsborough Hornets continued creating chances and held on for the win.”

“Our third game against Bradford Wildcats was a great game played by both teams,” Steph reported. “It was end to end with both teams creating plenty of chances. As the game went on the CDT players started to get tired and Bradford Wildcats took control of the game and took the lead. The score was kept down by good goalkeeping from Joseph and good defending. In the end Bradford Wildcats did enough to get the win.”

“Our final game against Hillsborough Hornets Orange was a game too far for the CDT players who had to play all the games with no substitutes,” Steph reported. “They tried their best and battled as hard as they could; Hillsborough took an early two goal lead within the first few minutes. CDT created some good chances, but Hillsborough kept pressing for more goals. As the game went on Hillsborough created more and more chances with two more goals coming late in the game. CDT had some more chances, but it wasn’t to be. In the end it was a good game played by both teams where Hillsborough Hornets came out on top.”

So, a triumph by the narrowest of margins for Bradford City Wildcats over a battling and skilful Hornets team. The Wildcats picked up the trophy, but every participant, and the coaches, took a medal home.

In the second group, it really could not have been closer, as Paul Jubb from Bradford explains. “The two Bradford boys teams were up against Sheffield FC – the 3 strongest teams in the league. In a strange set of first games the Blues beat the Clarets 3-0 – Fabian scoring two, and Callum 1.Then the Clarets beat Sheffield FC 4 -2, with Alfie scoring all 4.”

“Bradford Blues lost 3- 0 to Sheffield FC meaning each team had 3 points each, with all to play for!” 

“Then the Blues and Clarets drew 0- 0, the Clarets drew 4 -4 Alfie with 3, Aron with 1; with Sheffield FC and unbelievably in the last game of the day, the Blues drew with Sheffield 2 – 2 Alex with 2 goals.”

“All the teams finished on 5 points, and it was decided on the day that all the kids, and football of course, were the winners!!” Paul told us, crediting his coaches Sara, Vicky, Anna and Stephen, assistant!” 

League Secretary Paul had the last word. “It was a fitting end to a great, but mainly wet and cold season!!” Paul told us, “well done to all the teams that have completed in this 1st season of the South Yorkshire Ability Counts Junior League! It’s been great success!!”

And so say all of us. A great day with winners all round. Thanks to our referees Sean, Mike, and Peter.

Next Sunday, 13th March, sees the 7-a-side Divisional competition at Concord Sheffield. Match reports and photographs as always here at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com  

Last week, the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League lost one of its family when Ewan Hadfield, of City Knights Blue, passed away at the age of just 25.

Before this Sunday’s 7-a-side Tournament at Concord Sports Centre, the League plans to honour Ewan’s memory with a minute’s silence, followed by a round of applause.

The tribute is planned for 1.15 pm, and all our team members are more than welcome to join in.

Sharon Lavender, manger of City Knights, will be saying a few words in memory of Ewan.

Ewan’s family will be with us for the tribute, so any cards of sympathy from our clubs can be passed to them in person.

The family have asked that no flowers be given in Ewan’s memory, but have requested that teams make financial gifts, which they will then pass on to Ewan’s favourite charities.

The SYACL will be making a donation and encourages our teams to do the same.

As City Knights Black have withdrawn from next Sunday’s – 13th March – Premier divisional tournament at Concord Sports Centre.

Below is the new schedule, with each match lasting 10 minutes.

13.30 – Sheffield Red v Sheffield Blue

13.45 – Aston Red v Titans White

14.00 – Sheffield Blue v Barton Inclusive

14.15 – Sheffield Red v Aston Red

14.30 – Barton Inclusive v Titans White

14.45 – Sheffield Blue v Aston Red

15.00 – Sheffield Red v Titans White

15.15 – Aston Red v Barton Inclusive

15.30 – Titans White v Sheffield Blue

15.45 – Sheffield Red v Barton Inclusive

Three words to sum up Steph’s journey from Wembley National Stadium Trust funded Every Player Counts participant to coach with Club Doncaster Foundation and Club Doncaster Titans.

Steph has always had a passion for football but due to her physical disability, she struggled in her quest to find a team that was best suited to her. Consequently, she had been out of the sport for several years before she came across Club Doncaster Titans whilst at university.

Instantly, Steph felt ‘at home’ with the club, with a massive part of this being her coach, Darren. Having developed her self-confidence, she was given the platform to use her own experiences to coach the Under 12 session before being given complete control to tailor a female-only session to become her own personal initiative.

On International Womens Day supporting females to success, great work from Club Doncaster Foundation.

Please can all participants in the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League make sure that they read the guidelines set out by the FA on our Respect and Diversity page. The latest guidelines below have been added to that page today.

• You have the right to feel safe on and offline;
• You have the right to healthy relationships and appropriate boundaries;
• You have the right not to be bullied, harassed or intimidated;
• You have the right not to feel uncomfortable or unsafe;
• You have the right not to be discriminated against because of your age, gender, gender reassignment, ethnicity, sexual orientation, marital status or civil partnership, faith, ability or disability, pregnancy and maternity.

• Tell an adult you trust at home, school or college or at football;
• E-mail safeguarding@TheFA.com, or speak to a Designated Safeguarding Officer;
• Contact the NSPCC for free 0808 800 5000 or Childline 0800 1111

or visit their website for more information;

• If someone is in immediate danger dial 999 to speak to the Police;
• Set up privacy settings for your online profiles;
• Report inappropriate online behaviour to CEOP.

HELPFUL ORGS:

NSPCC:      nspcc.org.uk/what-you-can-do/report-abuse

Childline: childline.org.uk Helpline: 0800 1111 CEOP: ceop.police.uk/ceop-reporting ThinkUknow: thinkuknow.co.uk/14_plus ChildNet:childnet.com/young-people/secondary

Samaritans:     samaritans.org/how-we-can-help-you

Helpline is open 24 hrs a day: 116 123 Stonewall: stonewall.org.uk/help-advice Stonewall Youth: youngstonewall.org.uk YoungMinds: youngminds.org.uk DisrespectNoBody: disrespectnobody.co.uk

Morning All, due to the adverse weather conditions for most of today, unfortunately it has been decided to cancel today’s 5-a-side matches at Sheffield Goals Centre.

Most teams will be travelling from outside of Sheffield , so likely to be many travel disruptions due to strong winds and heavy rain. Playing conditions on the pitches will be difficult and the enjoyment for most will be spoiled.

We will re-arrange today’s matches for another date and confirm as soon as possible – when hopefully it will be a better day for all.

Keep safe everyone, we will see you soon.

Today’s postponed League and Cup matches will be played @ Doncaster Goals Centre on the 20th March 2022 and the 5-a-side divisional tournament will be held @ Sheffield Goals Centre on the 10th April 2022.

See you all there!

Last-day thriller sees Wheatley take the League One title.

Darren Warner Fair Play trophy won by Brunsmeer Awareness.

Sheffield FC (Red) and Bradford City Amber reach County Cup Final.

A cold, rainy day at Concord Sports Centre on Sunday; but the weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League 7-a side squads as the competition reached the business end of the season. Two County Cup semi-finals preceded the League action, with 18 games played in total on another thrilling day of football action, watched as always, by a good crowd. Our multi-talented team of reporters were all over the match reports and photographs for www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com.

The seven-a-side County Cup Final will be between Sheffield FC (Red), winners over Championship team Barton Inclusive and Bradford City DFC Amber, who defeated City Knights Blue, watched by Bradford’s Paul Jubb.  “On a cold wet and windy day, both teams only had 6 players to start,” Paul told SYACL.com, “the Ambers, who are 2 Leagues above City Knights Blues, took an early lead through McKenzie, who then went on to score 2 more to complete his hat-trick. The difference in abilities showed this time; the City Knights had knocked out our Blue team in the last round.”

“The second half was a bit of a non-event due to the 3-goal lead,” Paul added. “The Ambers were through to the County Cup Final!”

Sharon Lavender, City Knights manager commented on the Knights defeat by Bradford City DFC Amber, “our first match was our Semi-final cup match against Bradford Amber. We started off ok but then it got hard, the guys tried their best to keep it together, if it wasn’t for Connor Nicholls in the net, and the guys being supportive of each other it would have been a higher score. The 5 players stuck together and only let 3 goals in! Final score 3 -0 to Bradford.“

Sharon continued, “our second match was against Swallownest Juniors Blue; we had 5 players in that match to their 7 but we gave them a good game. The guys started and finished the match with their heads held high. We were losing 3-0 in the first half but in the second they fought back and Connor got us our first great goal, well done to Connor Nicholls! Not long after, Jordan smashed one in the net, well done Jordan Bratby! Swallownest ended up putting another in the net near to the end. However, the guys still kept their heads up and kept battling!
The final score was 4-2 to them.”

And so, to the Premier Division, with six matches played on the day. In the early kick-off, Club Doncaster Titans (White) took the three points with a win over Aston Swallownest. “The game started end-to-end with both teams having a number of chances, which is how it stayed to half time,” Titans’ Head Coach Martin Taylor told us. “The second half started like the first until Titans picked up the ball in their half by Danny; he ran into the other half then he passed the ball to Joseph who slotted the ball in the net making it 1 – 0 to the Titans. Swallownest came back fighting and they had a chance to equalise, but they put it just wide of the post. That’s the way the game finished 1 – 0 to the Titans.”

After Sheffield Blue had taken all three points against Aston Swallownest, Bradford Amber faced City Knights Black, watched again by Paul Jubb. “In an end of season type of game, the Ambers lost 1 – 0 to Sheffield Blues; again, it was 6-a-side, the game was even all the way through, but a mistake at the back cost us. The loss means that the Ambers were relegated on the same day that they reached the County Cup Final!” “Football is a strange game!!” Paul added.  “Our star man was McKenzie.”

Martin Taylor, Head Coach at Club Doncaster Titans Whites was at pitch side for their next game with title-chasing Sheffield FC (Red). “The match started with Sheffield FC (Red) on the front foot, and they dominated the play, but couldn’t score,” Martin told us. “They took the lead by an own goal making it 1 – 0 to Sheffield FC (Red). Then Titans equalised by a wonderful goal by Danny which took the teams in level at half time at 1 – 1. In the second half both teams upped the pressure to find the winner, but after a goal mouth scramble Sheffield FC (Red) managed to squeeze the ball into the net to make it 2 – 1, which was the final score.”

Sheffield FC (Red) win in the final game of the day against their closest challengers City Knights Black confirming them as deserving Premier Division Champions. Red were unbeaten during the season and won the League by eight points from Knights. Sheffield Blue was third, with four wins, just ahead of Club Doncaster Titans (White). Aston Swallownest’s eight points keeps them above the relegation zone, but Bradford Amber will be playing in the Championship next season. They do have the consolation of that County Cup Final to look forward to.

Premier 7’s – Final table

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Sheffield FC Red (Disability)	10	9	1	0	9	28
2	City Knights Black	10	6	2	2	4	20
3	Sheffield FC Blue (Disability)	10	4	1	5	-1	13
4	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) White	10	3	1	6	-3	10
5	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	10	2	2	6	-4	8
6	Bradford City FITC Disability Amber	10	2	1	7	-5	7

In The Championship, Derek Dooley Red got the afternoon under way with an impressive win over Brunsmeer Awareness, watched by Dooley’s Claire Cowlishaw. “The team started the wet cold afternoon with a game against Brunsmeer,” Claire reported. “They started on the attack, with Lewis taking the ball up front, dribbling past a player and a shot saved by the goalkeeper. Brunsmeer set off down and with a mix up at the back they took the lead. The heads didn’t go down and they quickly drew level with a great shot by Lewis. The team played as a team, talking to each other, and passing between themselves with some good pressing from Jack, but couldn’t score. Aiden did a good run up the wing, but the defender saved them. Lewis picked the ball up at halfway and took it past 2 defenders with a good save from Lewis giving them a corner. It was level at half time with the lads doing well. Aiden passed to Nick in the middle, and he passed onto Jack and he scored. The team kept it together with some good defending from Adam and Dom until he hurt his back, coming off. Stephen was solid in the middle and Aiden on the wing. Shaun did well in the goal growing in confidence. A good win from the team, listening to coach Nathan who had wise words on the side-line.”

Next up for Derek Dooley Kicks Red was a tough encounter with Champions-elect Barton Inclusive. “The second game came against the Champions Barton,” Claire told us, “they started the game with the same pace and Lewis took the ball and shot over the bar. Barton set off down, but some good defending from Jack, passed to Lewis who had another good run up and was saved by the fantastic Barton Goalkeeper. This was a competitive game which saw another shot by Lewis over the top. From the corner the ball passed across the goal, Jack missed, but Nick was free on the right to put it in, scoring his first goal of the season. Barton came back showing their great team spirit and were level. There was a great run from Lewis to Jack who had his shot saved. Barton showed some great passing, got past our defence, and scored.”

“Barton took the lead, but the lads didn’t give up and kept playing as a team,” Claire went on. ”Aiden passed up to Lewis who shot wide. There was solid defending from Dom, who passed to Lewis who ran up and was saved again. Jack tackled in the middle of the pitch and won the ball, passed to Stephen who scored, taking it to 2 – 2. Shaun passed out to the side to Adam who passed up the field to Lewis who scored taking them into the lead again. This didn’t last long as Barton came back to draw again at 3 each. This is how it ended, so a great end to the season finishing mid-table. Well done to the lads.”

Next up, Bradford City Blue took on Derek Dooley Orange, watched by Bradford’s Danny Johnson.  “Another strange scenario for our Blue team on the day – win both their games and they could have come second; lose both and they could have been relegated!!” Danny explained.

“Derek Dooley took the lead and then went ahead by 3 goals, so we brought an extra player on, and managed to get it back to 3 – 2 with goals from Luke and Bradley assisted by Ethan. ”Danny told SYACL.com. ”Derek Dooley winning 3 – 2, their only win of the season! Bradford couldn’t seem to hit the back of the net – a common theme throughout this season.”

Claire from Dooley gave her version of events. “The team of just 7 players started strongly with Clark passing up to Brad who scored taking them into the lead. Bradford came back straight away, but Nathan did a superb save to keep them in the lead. Nathan passed up to Nathan P to Jamie-Lee who scored to take them into a 2-0 lead. There was some good work by Josh in the middle to Brad, but went wide. The team were solid in helping each other and good defending by Richard and up to Brad who scored increasing their lead to 3-0. Bradford put on another man and the comeback started, they managed to break the defence and get one back. Some good work by Nathan P and Richard kept the lads on track but they got past and scored another bringing it to 3 – 2. There was good defending from Clark to keep them the winners.”

“The lads were ecstatic with their first win of the season. Well done lads!” Claire told us.

It was tense at the bottom of the table, with Bradford Blue now up against Brunsmeer Awareness, watched by an ever-more-nervous Danny Johnson. “We took an early lead with a great ball through the middle from Ethan to Luke who was through on goal and managed to slot the ball home.” Danny reported.  “Brunsmeer then had all the possession and managed to get a goal to make it 1 – 1. We again had lots of shots, but again they couldn’t find the back of the net! Brunsmeer then went on attack down the wing; the ball seemed to have gone out of play, but the ref’s whistle didn’t go. With our players switched off, Brunsmeer scored the winner in a very tight end to end game 2 – 1.”

“Luckily for the Blues, Derek Dooley lost their last game, which meant we stay in the Championship next season!” Danny added. “I would like to take the chance to say good luck next season to Derek Dooley and all other teams.”

In their last game, Dooley Orange were up against the impressive Barton. “This was a harder match for the lads, but they gave it their all,” Claire said. “They worked as a team following Nathan P’s directions. He took on a lot of the work himself; and some good work up front from Josh and Brad, who scored a wonder goal into the far corner of the net, taking them into the lead 1 – 0. The team kept going with a lot of battles all over the pitch, Clark was solid in defence, Jamie-Lee running back to help out, great shots from Brad and Josh.”

“Barton showed their skills and got level with lovely passing to each other up the pitch,” Claire went on. “The team was tiring, and Nathan needed his inhaler and a rest. Nathan F couldn’t stop the shot which took Barton into the lead. Nathan came off and Barton kindly took a man off, as we didn’t have any subs. The lads kept battling, but with a man down and the lads tiring they couldn’t find the next goal.”

“It was a great performance from all the lads to finish the season on a wet windy Sunday and not too disheartened that they are relegated to League One,” Claire summed up.

“They will be back stronger next season.” 

And so, with the floodlights coming on towards the end of the afternoon, it’s Barton Inclusive who take the trophy after a really impressive season. They have been a welcome addition to the SYACL, winning the Championship by a seven-point margin from the equally-excellent Brunsmeer Awareness who were a deserved second. Congratulations to both clubs.

 Derek Dooley Kicks (Red) kept themselves clear of the drama at the bottom of the table, with Dooley Orange just missing out on survival by one point, but with the consolation of that first win. Bradford Blues live to fight another day in the Championship.

Brunsmeer Awareness were also awarded the Darren Warner Fair Play Shield for 7-a-side clubs in recognition of their excellent on-field conduct; a deserved award for a team which continues to make such excellent progress.

Championship 7’s-Final table

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Barton At	8	7	1	0	7	22
2	Brunsmeer Awareness Awarness	8	5	0	3	2	15
3	Derek Dooley Football Academy Sheffield	8	2	3	3	-1	9
4	Bradford City FITC Disability Blues	8	2	0	6	-4	6
5	Derek Dooley Football Academy Orange	8	1	2	5	-4	5

In League One, Club Doncaster Titans (Red) got their afternoon under way with a goalless stalemate against Aston Swallownest, watched by Titans’ Daniel Hall. “Ok so here it is – the last 2 games of the season with Doncaster Titans Red facing off against Swallownest,” Daniel reported. “The game was tight end to end with chances from both sides, but our closest chance was in the 2nd half when Jordon headed it over the keeper’s hands and hit the crossbar and it bounced back out. The game was tough but ended 0 – 0.”

Aston were winners over City Knights Blue in the next fixture, before City Knights Blue took on Titans’ Reds, with Daniel watching on. “Our second game against City Knights Blue, and again, it was tough in the first half as Titans seemed to struggle getting it out of their own half. Into half time at 0 – 0; our coach had a team talk going into the 2nd half and Titans broke the deadlock when Callum took a free kick and Dan decoyed the defence to make the opponents think it was going to be passed to Dan, but no, passed to Jordan and BANG – he found the back of the net to make it 1 – 0 Titans.”

“We were trying to guard the lead and stop City Knights equalising,” Daniel added, “they came close, but in the last dragging minutes of the game Mark assisted Jordan again to hit the back of the net -GOOAAALLLL ! Titans finished the game 2 – 0!”

“Both games were played very well with no malice,” Daniel added.

Sharon Lavender added her views on the City Knights Blue match against Titans Red, “our last league game of the day and season was against Titans Red.”
“The guys once again, even though they were short of players, went on strong and played their hearts out. Adrian Bingham played well in net, and the outfield players gelled well and supported each other. Titans ended up scoring again, but our guys kept battling, we had so many chances but it didn’t seem to be our day! Final score 2-0 to them.”

“I would just like to say I was very proud of my team today despite the score, they should be proud of themselves too, they went out full throttle and kept going until the whistle, and gave it their all even though they had less players.”

“City Knights would also like to thank the teams that they played today and throughout the season, and wish them all the best! Thank you to all the referees and everyone that have been involved.”

The last two games of the day were the title deciders between Sheffield FC (White) and Wheatley Wanderers; the first game was drawn, but Wheatley took the win in the second game to clinch a well-deserved title win by just six points from Sheffield FC (White) and earn themselves a champagne soaking from their loyal supporters! (photos on the medal page at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com

Wheatley’s Chris Pow played in both games.  “In the first game, Sheffield started really strongly and scored an early goal,” Chris reported. “We rallied together, made a few changes and played a lot better. Sean scored in the second half, and Sheffield lost their composure.” 

“In our second game, Asten scored in the first half of a really competitive match,” Chris added, “we defended well, with Josh in goal being hardly tested. We remain unbeaten in the League, though we’ve had a few tough games.”

So, in a hugely competitive League, Club Doncaster Titans (Red) took third place, three points clear of Aston Swallownest, with City Knights Blue enjoying that one win and two draws.

Wheatley and Sheffield received their medals at the final whistle – congratulations to both teams.

League One 7’s -Final Table

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Wheatley Wanderers SYACL	8	6	2	0	6	20
2	Sheffield FC White (Disability)	8	4	2	2	2	14
3	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Red	8	3	1	4	-1	10
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	8	2	1	5	-3	7
5	City Knights Blue	8	1	2	5	-4	5

With the medals and trophies wrapped up for the 7-a-side teams, next week sees the climax of the 5-a-side season at Goals Sheffield. As always, our reporters will be there to capture the action; and you can keep up with the latest news and reports at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com or our Twitter account @SYorksACL.

In the meantime, it’s congratulations to all our seven a side players, coaches, and supporters, with a massive thanks to Sean and his referees.

Under-16’s glory for Club Doncaster Titans

Sheffield FC Reds take the honours in the Under-12’s League

The final matchday of the season for the Under-16’s and Under 12’s at Sheffield Goals Centre; and when the final whistles blew across the venue it was glory for Club Doncaster Titans in the Under16’s competition, and for Sheffield FC Red in the Under12’s. Both trophies were presented at the end of the afternoon, and match day photographs are available on a new page titled 2021/2022 medal presentation photos on the website .

As always, however the bare headlines tell only a small part of the story, so our www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com website editor Margaret Gregory picks out the best of the action from a thrilling afternoon.

In the Under16’s League, the first match saw League leaders Club Doncaster Titans win a thrilling clash with Sheffield FC Blue. Titans coach John Hibbert takes up the story, “in the first game we started strong with James getting the first three goals then Levi scored assisted by James. Half-time came and the team shape was changed; they scored to make it 4 -1 then James scored again making it 5 -1. James came off to even it up a little, and they scored again, 5 – 2.”

“Danny scored to make it 6 – 2, then they got another back, 6 – 3.” John added. ”Danny scored another making it 7 – 3, then I took Danny off leaving me with 4 against 7 – so we just stood firm; and the game ended Titans 7 – 3 Sheffield FC.”

In the second fixture, a depleted Bradford City Amber shared the points with Hillsborough Hornets Black. “Bradford City DFC Under 16’s Ambers started with just 4 players against Hillsborough Hornets, as a few players arrived late,” coach Paul Jubb explained. “In the 1^st half they went went down 3 – 0 however, once the other players arrived, they managed to pull it back to 3 – 3, thanks to goals from Daniel (2) and one from Jonathan to earn a well-deserved draw.”

Hornets Alex Whitehead agreed that it had been a splendid watch. “It was a great game for the neutral,” Alex told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com “Hornets started strong taking a 3 – 0 lead, with two goals from Jacob and 1 from Zakir, but Bradford rallied very well in the second period to earn a well-deserved draw.

Next, Sheffield Blue took the three points in their game with Hornets Yellow. Hornets Alex Whitehead was pitch side and reported. “After another bright start from the Hornets, we took the lead through Zakir,” Alex said.  “In training, though we’re going to have to work on game management. Sam our goalkeeper, kept us in the game with a number of high-class saves. It was a great performance from Sheffield FC Blue to come out on top.”

Next up, Club Doncaster Titans continued their march to the title with a victory over Bradford City Amber. Titans’ John Hibbert admitted that his team had started on the back foot. “In our second game, they seemed to be the stronger team,” John said, “then we got a penalty which Ben took and scored to make it 2 – 0. They scored making it 2 – 1 and then Devon finished with goal in the top corner, and we won 3 – 1.” 

“Well done everybody who took part today,” John said, “and, to our goalkeepers, well done guys for only conceded two goals each. I’m proud of everyone today.”

Bradford’s Paul Jubb was typically gracious in defeat. “In their second game the Ambers lost 3-1 to Club Doncaster Titans who won the League, winning every game; but once again our young team played well, Daniel again scoring our goal. Esea was the star player on the day,” Paul told us.

“Well-done to Bradford City DFC Ambers Under 16’s who came 4th in their League with a young team.”

The Under16 season was completed by a local derby between Hillsborough Hornets Yellow and Black teams, and Alex Whitehead admitted that it had been a tough match to watch. “It was a game where it was hard to manage, because whoever won would be finishing second,” Alex told SYACL.com. “Yellows started very well again, taking a quick lead and team Black just never recovered. Scorers were Coley, Zakir, Lewis, Zach and Jacob.”

Alex was rightly delighted with the progress his young team had made. “Overall, it was a fantastic day for us, with the team only being 18 months old,” he said. “Walking away finishing 2nd and 3rd in the Under 16’s is a big achievement when we’d been written off by many.”

So, with all teams having played 8 fixtures across four thrilling matchdays, Titans are clear winners of the League with a one hundred per cent record. As we have just seen, Hornets Yellow edged Hornets Black for second after that win in the last game, and Bradford Amber and Sheffield Blue boasted two wins in good seasons for both clubs.

So, congratulations to Hornets Yellow as runners-up, and to our Under-16’s champions, Club Doncaster Titans.

Here’s the final table;

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	8	8	0	0	8	24
2	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 Y	8	4	0	4	0	12
3	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 b	8	3	1	4	-1	10
4	Bradford City FITC Disability U16 Amber	8	2	1	5	-3	7
5	Sheffield FC Youth U16 SFCD Blue	8	2	0	6	-4	6

So, to the final matchday in the Under-12’s division, and the last nine games of a hectic season.

In the 10.30 kick off, there was a win for Club Doncaster Titans over Bradford City Blue, watched by Doncaster coach Steph Hall.

“It was a good game played by both sides,” Steph reported, “the game was dominated by a good Bradford side who had lots of chances to score. CDT had very few chances, but took them when they came. The goal came after Jacob passed to Andrew in the box who then dribbled the ball and scored. The score was kept down by a good goalkeeping performance from Joseph and by excellent defending from the whole team.”

“The two teams did battle again almost immediately after, and this time the points were shared.”

“It was another good game played by both teams” Steph reported, “this was a more open game than the previous one, but again it was dominated by Bradford having more chances to score. There were goals scored by both teams. Jacob B got a hat-trick for CDT! Once again there was a good goalkeeping performance this time by Andrew and good defending from the whole team to keep us in the game.”

Taking nothing away from Titans, it had been a difficult afternoon for Bradford City Blue. “The Bradford City DFC Under 12’s Blues had only two players on the day, due to Covid. Even their coach Sara was unable to attend. They borrowed players mainly from the Wildcats, so lose all the points on the day,” coach Paul Jubb told us.

“In the 1^st game they lost to Club Doncaster Titans 1 – 2 Fabian scoring; they then played them again and drew 3 – 3, with Fabian scoring a hat trick.”

Bradford Wildcats opened their afternoon with a narrow loss to Hillsborough Hornets. “The Wildcats, whose players had helped the Blues earlier, played Hillsborough Hornets and lost by the odd goal, 2 – 3 with Skye scoring both,” Paul Jubb told us.

Next, Club Doncaster Titans were back in action with a thrilling draw with Bradford Wildcats, watched by Steph Hall. “This was an entertaining end to end game played by both teams. CDT took the lead early with a goal by Jacob B from inside the box,” Steph told us.

“Bradford got an equalising goal not long after. CDT went ahead again this time with Jacob B scoring from outside the box after an assist by Kellie. CDT pulled further ahead with another goal from Jacob B giving him a hat-trick! Bradford then managed to pull two late goals back to earn a draw. This was a fair result in the end after the efforts from both teams.”

“The Wildcats went 3 – 0 up against Doncaster, which allowed Doncaster to bring extra players on, ”Paul Jubb reflected for Bradford. “Doncaster then scored 3 goals to make it 3 – 3 Skye scored 2 more and Maisie 1.”

Bradford City Claret took all three points with a win over Hillsborough Hornets. “In their last game Clarets beat Hillsborough Hornets 6 – 3 Fabian scoring 4 this time! Leanne and an own goal sealed the win. Fabian with 8 goals was star of the day.”

“In their last game a very tired Wildcats team played Sheffield FC and lost 3 – 7, Skye once more scoring 3 goals. Skye was star of the day scoring 7!” Paul Jubb commented.

“Well played everyone you all gave 100% on the day and that’s all we ask!” Paul concluded. “Next up are the Divisional Cups in March.” 

Sheffield FC Red continued their progress to a well-deserved League title, drawing with Bradford City Claret, beating Bradford Wildcats as noted above, and in their final match beat Bradford Claret to round off a fine season.

The final table sees Sheffield Red as Champions with just one defeat in their fifteen games, giving them a nine-point margin over Bradford City Claret who finish as runners-up. Bradford City Blues finish third after that difficult last day’ edging Club Doncaster Titans for third place. Excellent seasons too for Bradford City Wildcats, with three wins and a draw, and Hillsborough Hornets who also won three games in an exceptionally good campaign.

The final table is as follows:

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Sheffield FC Youth U13 SFCD U-13s Red	15	12	2	1	11	38
2	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Claret	15	9	2	4	5	29
3	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Blues	15	7	2	6	1	23
4	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	15	7	1	7	0	22
5	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Wildcat	15	3	1	11	-8	10
6	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U12 O	15	3	0	12	-9	9

So, for the Junior Leagues the regular season is over with deserving champions and runners up; well done, though, to every one of our players, coaches, referees, and spectators.

A big thank you too, to Mike, Andrew, Paul, and Sean for their fantastic organisation and support on matchdays.

Next up, the seven a side Leagues reach a conclusion at Concord Sports Centre next Sunday, 13^th February. Follow us at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com or on Twitter @SYorksACL.

Time is running out to get your hands on tickets to UEFA Women’s EURO 2022! Taking place in England this summer, the tournament is being hosted right on your doorstep in Sheffield & Rotherham so why not plan a trip with your group of friends, colleagues, teammates or classmates to watch the action live?! This exclusive window of opportunity closes at 3pm on Tuesday 8 February, so make sure you act fast. To secure your tickets, visit the link below and enter your access codehttps://womenseuro-groupbookings-sales.tickets.uefa.com/list/partnerAdvantage?code=CLUBS Buy your group tickets now.

DON’T FORGET: –

EURO TICKETS – if you purchase 9 concession tickets you get 1 adult ticket free!

Hope you’re all safe and well!

The league are lifting restrictions on the number of spectators allowed to attend matches at the Goals venues.

However, we still urge everyone to be careful and to wear face coverings when necessary. We all still have to be  mindful that many of our members are still vulnerable to serious illness if contracting the virus, so please advise your members to be considerate and give space to others.

Although we can’t enforce it, it would be very helpful if all members were to take a lateral flow test on the morning of the match days and then anybody with Covid symptoms please do not attend.