Between SYACL match days, we’re delighted to feature another of our fantastic sponsors; this time, it’s the brilliant Twentytwo – and www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com website editor Margaret Gregory caught up with Twentytwo’s James Radford to learn a little more about the company.
SYACL Hi James; tell us a little about Twentytwo. We know that you started up in 2006, and that Chris Waddle was guest of honour at your official opening.”
James; That’s right! Twentytwo is a local sports teamwear company which is based on the high street of Commonside in Walkley, Sheffield. With key expertise in football, we’ve been working for 15 years with local grassroots clubs, schools, and university societies to provide them with kits, training wear and equipment. We pride ourselves on excellent customer relationships and service of the highest of standard. We’re proud to have so many long-lasting relationships with clubs and the people behind the scenes who make things tick, who return to us for their stuff year after year.
SYACL; How did you become involved with the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League?
James; We’ve developed a working relationship and friendship with Mike (Stylianou, SYACL Chair) and his son Paul over many years, supporting him with teamwear and equipment for Spartans FC, Talbot School, and the Blades Super Draw League. We were more than happy to help the Ability Counts League and how it supports a level and fair playing field to allow more participants to get involved in football, socialising and physical activity.
SYACL; Where else can we see what Twentytwo are doing for Grassroots football?
James; We’ve provided free footballs for various teams and leagues for the past couple of years. We try to supply cost price equipment and speedy service for the league. We also provide teamwear for Spartans FC – you might spot our logo on their kits!
James has also shared with us a new Twentytwo graphic he has created for use on the company newsletter and other media. You can see this below.
The SYACL would like to thank Chris, James, and everyone at Twentytwo for their continued, fantastic support.
Sheffield FC (Red) leads the way after twelve matches
Bradford (Claret) and Bradford (Blue) head the chasing pack
Just the Under-12’s in action last Sunday @ Goals Doncaster, with nine Junior League fixtures in front of the usual good crowd and an atmosphere every bit as lively as a Downing Street party. As always, www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com editor Margaret Gregory pulled together the best of the day’s action from our roving reporters, all making an early start.
The League had organised the fixtures with the growth in Omicron cases in mind, so clubs had back-to-back fixtures to avoid having too many participants in the venue at any one time.
The first match of the day on Pitch 7 saw Sheffield FC (Red) take the three points with a convincing win overHillsborough Hornets Disability FC, then repeat the win in a much closer rematch immediately afterwards. Sheffield FC then rounded off a good day with an impressive win over Club Doncaster Titans in the 11.15 a.m. kick-off.
Titans’ Liam Taylor reflected on the game for ww.syacl.com. “In the first game Titans played some good football, but Sheffield FC Red also played some great football,” Liam told us. “Titans never give up and the result doesn’t show it, but I am really happy with each player and Zach took his goal well – and it was a good goal too! Well done everyone in that game.”
Next up, it was a good three points for Bradford City Wildcats who beat Hillsborough Hornets before taking on Club Doncaster Titans in their next game.
Here’s Titans’ Liam Taylor on a thrilling encounter won by Bradford Wildcats by the odd goal in seven. “The second game started end to end,” Liam told us. “Titans scored to make it 1-0 with a goal from Jacob, but Bradford scored to make 1-1 and, on the break, Bradford made it 2-1. Two quick goals made it 4-1 to Bradford before a late Titans comeback. We scored to make it 4-2 with a goal from Zach; Zach scored again to make it 4-3 but Titans narrowly missed out and the final score was 4-3 to Bradford City Wildcats.”
“I was really happy with the performance from the team.”
Another quick turnaround saw Titans take on Bradford FC Claret. It had been a tough afternoon for the Titans’ squad, as Liam admitted. “After playing back-to-back games it was too much for the boys and girls and the result showed; but I am really happy with their commitment in that game, and they played some great football too, but they were truly dominated by Bradford City Clarets.”
“Well played everyone; you all did great today,” Liam concluded.
Bradford Blues beat Bradford Wildcats in the 12.30 kick off, then lost to Bradford Clarets in their next game. The afternoon closed with a thrilling draw between Bradford Blues and Bradford Claret.
So, with each team having played 12 matches, it’s Sheffield FC (Red)who lead the way, but only by six points over Bradford Claret, with Bradford Blues two further points behind. Titans have those five wins so far and have 15 points, Bradford Wildcats have nine, and the hard-working Hillsborough Hornets with that one win so far.
Our seven-a- side Leagues entered what they call “the business end” of the season at Concord Sports Centre last Sunday afternoon; and whilst by 5 o’clock some issues were pretty much done and dusted, others will go down to the last week of the season, again at Concord on February 13th when it promises to be another thrilling finale to another fantastic campaign.
There was a hint of rain in the air when proceedings got under way at just after 1 pm under a cloudy sky and accompanied by a light aircraft circling Concord for most of the afternoon. As always, Website Manager Margaret Gregory fielded the match reports from our reporters on the touchline.
Sheffield (Red) got the Premier League schedule under way with a 2-1 win over Aston Swallownest (Red), with City Knights (Blue) taking the three points by beating Sheffield (Blue) by the odd goal in five.
Meanwhile, Bradford City Ambers were beaten by Club Doncaster Titans (White) in their first game, as Paul Jubb explains. “We came with a depleted squad as only three of the original players were available, due to covid, illness and other commitments. Doncaster played really well and deserved their 3- 0 win. It could have been more, but for some good goalkeeping from John Bigmore.”
Martin Taylor gave www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com the Doncaster perspective. “Titans started quickly off the blocks again and started playing some lovely two touch football to take an early lead with a goal by Liam assisted by Joseph. Then the Titans stepped up another gear getting two quick goals from Joseph both assisted by Aaron, taking the score to 3-0 at halftime.”
“The second half started like the first,” Martin continued. “More lovely two touch football by the Titans opened up Bradford and they conceded a fourth which was scored by Aaron. Another goal by Joseph made it 5-0 which was the final score.”
After a quick turnaround, Bradford City Ambers were right back in action, this time against Aston Swallownest (Red). “This game was closer than the score line suggests,” Paul Jubb told us after Aston had taken the 3-0 win. “We had more chances, but the Aston Swallownest goalkeeper was in fine form saving chance after chance. Our star player on the day was Jaimie.“
Sheffield (Red) took the bragging rights in the Sheffield FC derby, beating the Blues by 3-0 at the very same moment that Club Doncaster Titans (White) took on City Knights (Black). The clash was watched by Titans coach, Martin Taylor.”
“Both teams played some lovely football to start off with,” Martin reported. “Then Titans made a couple of errors which let City Knights in to punish them to make it 2-0 and with that the Titans heads went down, and it cost them the match, which ended up with City Knights winning 5–0.”
So, with eight games played, the Premier Title heading for a final day shoot-out is between Sheffield FC (Red) and City Knights Black; intriguingly, the teams are due to meet in the last fixture of the Seven-a-side competition. Sheffield FC (Blue) sits in third place, with Aston Swallownest (Red) and Titans (White) level on 7 points. Bradford has one win and one draw from the season so far.
Into the Championship, and Barton Athletic have clinched a deserved title after their two wins over Bradford City (Blue); even if Barton loses both of their last two fixtures, only Brunsmeer Awareness can catch them; and in that case, Barton will still take the crown because of their two wins over the much-improved Brunsmeer Athletic earlier in the season. So, congratulations to Sophie, the Barton coaches, and the players.
That said, Barton’s two games against Bradford City (Blue) were two of the best games seen in the competition this season, as Danny Johnson, Bradford’s coach, reports.
“Going into the games against Barton today they were at the top of the table winning every game so far, so we knew it was going to be a hard game,” Danny told wwwsyacl.com. “In the first half it was a close contest with us having the majority of chances, but it was Barton who finished the half 1-0 up. The second half kicked off and was a lot like the first half; we had plenty of shots but couldn’t score. Barton went 2-0 up with a cracking top corner goal then it went 3-0. We managed to pull a goal back with a good run from the middle of the pitch from Ethan who played it to Luke who finally managed to score ending the game 3-1 to Barton, but both managers said at full time it didn’t feel like a 3-1 game.”
“Both teams come back after a 5-minute break to play each other again,” Danny added. “It was similar to the first game; Barton finished the first half 1-0; they then scored 30 seconds into the 2nd to make it 2-0 which is how it finished.”
What a job Sam Dawson and his coaches have done at Brunsmeer this season! Another two wins on Sunday, the first against Derek Dooley (Orange). Claire Cowlishaw, from Dooley, summed up that first game.
“The boys started well with Josh taking the ball and having a long shot which was saved by the Brunsmeer goalkeeper,” Claire reported. “The boys turned and tried again with a lovely pass from Brad to Gregg whose shot went wide. Josh had another shot saved, Nathan took charge giving instructions to his team mates, he sent a free kick but there was no-one on the end of it. Brunsmeer turned up the heat and some solid defending by Richard and good goalkeeping from Nathan F saved them to a goalless draw at halftime. The second half started at full pace and Josh had another shot saved. Richard passed to Greg who went wide. The lads were talking to each other and passing, saw a run up the wing by Jamie Lee but no one was on the end of the cross. Brunsmeer went up to our end and had a good shot which passed Nathan F. The lads didn’t give up for the last few minutes they kept trying and solid defending kept at 1 goal.”
“Well done, that was a good performance from the lads who hadn’t played matches since November.”
Our ace reporter Claire then watched Brunsmeer’s next game, this time against Derek Dooley Kicks (Red). Brunsmeer didn’t have much rest before playing the Red team, they switched their team round and the reds started well, passing up to Jack who shot wide. Nick passed up to Jack whose shot was saved. Stephen took the pass on the left but shot wide. Brunsmeer took the ball up and shot past Shaun taking them into the lead. The lads didn’t give up and Elliott had a shot, but went over the net. Brunsmeer sent a lovely cross up field past our defence and past Shaun giving them a 2-0 lead. Dooley had another shot from Elliott over the goal. Brunsmeer then passed upfront and past Shaun taking them into a 3-0 lead at half time.”
“The second half started more positively with another man on; the lads started to get into the playing as a team, passing and talking to each other. There was a lovely run by Lewis who turned past the defender and scored, this gave the lads a lift; this was quickly followed by another shot from Lewis bringing it back to 3-2. Adam passed up to Lewis who passed to Elliott whose shot went over.”
“The final whistle went with the lads exhausted but a good performance from them all.”
Claire’s last assignment of the afternoon was the Derek Dooley derby. “This was the first Dooley derby which brought great excitement. The lads relaxed and played as a team, like they do at training every week. This was an even match with some great passing by both teams. Jack had a shot saved by Nathan F, then Josh had a chance at the other end, saved by Shaun. Shaun rolled the ball out to Adam on wing, and he passed up front to Lewis, who dribbled past his brother and scored past Nathan F.”
“All the lads tried their best and helped each other out,” Claire added, “helping to defend when the ball past them. Shaun saved a good shot from Nathan and then Gregg passed the ball from the wing to Brad R, and he sent it past Shaun bringing them back level. Richard was solid in defence.”
“The lads played with a smile on their faces and a happy demeanour – so all went home happy!“
Great work again Claire!
The table reflects the excellent seasons that Barton and Brunsmeer have had, but Bradford City (Blue) have enjoyed two wins out of six games this season, and the Dooley clubs have fought hard, played well, and contributed to a super season.
It’s tight in League One, too. Wheatley wanderers got their afternoon off to a great start with a narrow win over City Knights (Blue).
“This was an even game,” Wheatley’s Chris Pow reports. “Both teams were trying to avoid a loss. We scored a late goal, which we probably deserved, as we were in control. Asten scored our goal.”
Meanwhile, Sheffield (White) got the better of Aston Swallownest (Blue) in a high scoring encounter, before Club Doncaster Titans (Red) took on Sheffield FC (White).
“The game started out end to end with good defensive structure from Titans and was held to 0-0 in the 1st half,” Titan’s Dan Hall told us. “During the 2nd half Sheffield struck the back of the net, and straight after a cross from Kieran, Dan got a beautiful connection to it with his head but the Sheffield ‘keeper pulled off a tremendous save.”
“Sheffield equalised and again straight after Dan volleyed it and hit both posts and out. Titans were struggling in the last 5 mins and Sheffield FC took advantage of that; the full-time score was Sheffield 3-0 Titans Red.”
Wheatley rounded off the afternoon with a hard-fought draw against City Knights, with Chris Pow in action for Wanderers. “We were in control again, but it was a scrappy game and City Knights forced the draw,” Chris told http://www.syacl.com.” Asten scored again, and we knew we’d been in a game!”
Club Doncaster Titans brought the afternoon to a rousing finish with a win over Aston Swallownest (Blue) “The game started out great and Asten scored 1-0, with Titans Red playing end to end chance after chance,” Dan Hall told us. “Jordon broke our deadlock with a side line goal 1-1. Into the 2nd half; Aaron headed the ball and cut his nose on his glasses bridge; he came off to be treated: while Titans were on the break Jordon passed to Dan and Dan assisted Cooper aka “NO SALAD” to bang it in against his old team! The celebration was quality! In the last 5 minutes Cooper returned the favour and assisted Dan to make it 3-1 Titans, it was a close game and played with no malice.”
“The chants at full time were COOPER, COOPER, COOPER.”
So, after that exciting finish to the League One afternoon, it’s everything to play for when the teams get back together in February. Wheatley have a three-point lead over Sheffield Fc (White), but the teams play each other TWICE on the last day of the season in what promises to be a stunning climax to the campaign. Titans (Red), City Knights (Blue) and Aston Swallownest (Blue) will be fighting for third on that final day.
Whew.! Time to take a breath before February’s 7-a-side finale. Next week, it’s the Under-16’s and Under 12’s who take the stage at Goals Doncaster on Sunday morning.
Stocksbridge Park Steels football club extend their thanks to South Yorkshire Ability Counts League for all their donations to the Stocksbridge food bank, before Christmas.
Numerous boxes of food and £1200 was handed over by the Vice Chairman of Stocksbridge Park Steels.
County Cup Semi-Final line-up confirmed at Concord Sports Centre
Sheffield FC Red stay at the top of the Premier Division
Barton beat Brunsmeer and lead the Championship
Wheatley head League One and are so close to a County Cup shock
The seven-a-side teams brought the curtain down on another calendar year of South Yorkshire Ability Counts League football at Concord Sports Centre in Sheffield on Sunday. The action centred on the quarter finals of the County Cup competition, but there was time for a full League programme in the Premier Division, important fixtures in the Championship and League One and a couple of friendlies. As you’d expect, our roving reporters were pitch side to sum up the action, leaving www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com website editor Margaret Gregory to pick the bones out of another fantastic day.
Before the action started on a cold and damp afternoon, the SYACL teams produced yet more fantastic food and cash donations in favour of the Stocksbridge Food Bank ahead of the Stocksbridge Park Steels derby with Sheffield FC on the 27th of December, where there will be a final opportunity to contribute to this important cause. Thanks to all of our clubs, in all three Leagues, for their generosity; we are proud of all of you!
The SYACL was also delighted to welcome Julie Callaghan, the Disability and Inclusion Officer at Sheffield and Hallamshire FA, who watched the action from start to finish.
The County Cup quarter finals got the afternoon underway; there was one upset, and so nearly another.
Sheffield FC Red saw off Aston Swallownest Red on Pitch Three, watched by Sheffield’s Peter Duxbury, who told us, “We played Aston Swallownest in the Cup and started well, by scoring early goals, to take full control of the game. We played with intensity and energy against a weakened team, with some good interplay with crisp passing and movement creating scoring opportunities. We showed plenty of pace with goals from George, Jordan (3), Taighler (2) and Paul to take us through to the semi-finals.”
Barton overcame Club Doncaster Titans White to book their semi-final berth, which takes us on to the near upset, when Premier side Bradford Amber was taken all the way by a brilliant Wheatley Wanderers. The game ended goalless, but Bradford won the tie 2-1 on penalties. Bradford’s Paul Jubb was happy to get past Wheatley. He told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com “Bradford City Ambers struggled against Wheatley Wanderers, a team two leagues below them, and drew 0-0 but eventually won 2-1 on penalties; thanks to Jordan and George scoring. There was a big sigh of relief -rather than celebrations – at the end. They will play City Knights Blues who beat our Blue team in the semi-final.”
City Knights Blues produced the giant-killing act of the afternoon with a one-goal win over Championship side Bradford City Blue. Bradford’s coach Danny told us, “On paper the Bradford City Blues should have won this cup tie but missed lots of chances; in reality, City Knights Blues put one of their chances away and won 1-0. We would like to congratulate them on reaching the next round in the County Cup.”
Well said, Danny.
City Knights Warren Foster, Manager, gave his take on the match. “It was a very good even match, very close game the guys worked well together to keep it 0-0 before half time! Second half the guys stepped it up and Kyle Hancock scored the winning goal for us. Final score 1-0 to City Knights FC 1 – Bradford Blue 0
The semi-final line up is complete; City Knights Blue will face Bradford City Amber – and Barton Inclusive will face Sheffield FC Red, with dates and times to be confirmed.
The action then turned to the Premier Division. City Knights Black enjoyed an impressive win over Aston Swallownest Red before being held by Bradford City Amber.
Steve Gould, Vice Captain of City Knights, sent us his view on the match against Aston Swallownest Red. Our first game I thought we were slow to start, but as the game went on we got better and better with some great passing from all the lads. They took all their chances and it ended up being the best we have played all season. It was a equal game, first 5 minutes we had 6 players they had 6, some great goals and they played some good football. Final Score: – City Knights FC 8 – Aston Swallownest Red 0
Steve continued with his report on the match against Bradford Amber. “The second game was a different story though, we really struggled against Bradford as they had an extra man and it showed. It was hard to create chances with a man down, and the chances we did have we didn’t make them count. However, Bradford did have a game plan saying, we were too quick for them, so they just kept fouling. They were lucky to get their goal, a mistake from us, that cost us 3 points; but we managed to get a goal back and now we move forward as a team and focus on our next games. Forget about that game and challenge for the title. Final Score 1-1
Bradford’s Paul Jubb gave his take on the match. “In the League games it was the Ambers turn to produce a shock. They drew with joint top of the League City Knights Blacks 1-1 in a hard-fought game, thanks to a deflected goal from McKenzie who did well to close down the keeper!”
Titans White shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw with Aston Swallownest.
Next up was an all-Sheffield affair as Sheffield FC Red took on Sheffield FC Blue, watched by Red’s Coach Peter Duxbury. “The first League match was against our fellow Sheffield Blues Premiership team,” Peter told us, “as you would expect from a club derby there was lots of passion shown by both teams with every tackle made with full commitment. Initially it was a tight affair: however, some good movement by our attacking players opened up a lead. Sheffield Blues then experienced an injury to their goalkeeper which made it harder for them to get back into the game allowing Sheffield Reds to run out comfortable winners. Goals from George (3), Taighler and Jordan sealed the match.”
Bradford Amber took the three points in a tight contest with Sheffield FC Blue watched by Paul Jubb. “We beat Sheffield FC Blues 3-2 thanks to a hat trick from George with his trade mark long shots! The Ambers were 1-0 and 2-1 down but battled back to win. Star player was Henry who was brilliant in defence.”
The final Premier Division game of the day saw Sheffield FC Red take another three points – and the lead in the league table – with a well-earned win over Club Doncaster Titans White. “We played our last League match against Doncaster and with results secured earlier in the day we played with confidence,” Sheffield’s Peter Duxbury explained. “Again, we started strongly to take full control and looked organised in defence to neutralise break away attacks. Goals from Jordan 4 and George made it 3 wins in 3 and with 3 clean-sheets making it a good day all around for Sheffield Reds.
After six games each in the Premier Division, it’s a close-run thing between Sheffield FC Red and City Knights Black. Sheffield FC Blue has three wins and nine points; Aston Swallownest Red, Bradford City Amber and Titans White all have four points each.
Just the one game in the Championship and what a fantastic game it was between Barton Inclusive and Brunsmeer Awareness; two teams in brilliant form and a match which didn’t disappoint. The game was level at 1-1 going into the last few minutes, but two late goals from Barton clinched the points and consolidated their position at the top of the table.
Barton lead the way with a one hundred-per-cent record, chased by the ever-improving Brunsmeer Awareness and Bradford City Blues. The two Derek Dooley teams had an afternoon off.
Just one game in League One and Sheffield FC White took the three points with a win over Aston Swallownest Blue.
“In the League game against Aston Swallownest, Sheffield FC took an early lead through a Lewis Shaw goal. Lewis went on to get a second a few minutes later and then completed his hat-trick just before half-time with Jordan Barton-Moore unselfishly setting it up, when he had a chance to score himself. In the second half the defence kept it tight with James Milia, Luke Marsh and goalkeeper Thomas Brown-Bromley making sure they kept a clean sheet.”
Four games in and Wheatley lead the way by five points over Sheffield FC White, with City Knights Blue, Aston Swallownest Blue and Titans Red all on the scoreboard.
There were three friendlies played on Sunday. Bradford City Blue beat Wheatley, watched by coach Danny. “Wheatley Wanderers started really strong and went 1-0 up; then Bradley scored the equaliser to make it 1-1; a goal from Wheatley made it 2-1 to them.
Bradford Cityscored again through Dale and made it 2-2 at half time. In the second half we came out stronger and made it 3-2 Luke scoring. The final goal of the game came from Dale, making it 4-2. Our player of the day was Ethan.”
Sheffield FC White from League One took on Brunsmeer Awareness. “The game was an even contest with chances at both ends, with Brunsmeer scoring the first goal with Lewis equalising soon after,” Kevin Marsh told us. “The second half was much the same with the game eventually decided by 2 goals in the last 90 seconds for Brunsmeer. A draw would have been a fairer result in the end, but a great effort by the lads.”
7v7 Premiership Black team league games This Report is from Steve Gould Vice Captain
Against: Aston Swallownest Red First game thought we was slow to start but as the game went on we was getting better and better some great passing from all the lads took chances and thought it ended up been the best we played all season was a equal game first 5 minutes we had 6 players they had 6 some great goals and played some good 2 touch football . Final Score 8-0 to City Knights FC
Against Bradford Amber However the second game is a different story thought we really struggled against Bradford they had an extra man and it showed was hard to create chances with a man down and the chances we did have we didn’t make them count however Bradford did have a game plan saying we was to quick for them so they just kept fouling and they was lucky to get there goal a mistake from us what cost us 3 points but we managed to get a goal back and now we move forward as a team focus on next games forget about that game and challenge for title. Final Score 1-1
So, as the seven-a-side Leagues go into Christmas, it just remains for all of us here at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com to wish all of our players, officials, coaches, and spectators a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
The Food Bank Drive continues, so if you are at a loose end on December 27th, why not get yourself up to Stocksbridge Park Steels v Sheffield FC on 27th December. Kick off at 3p.m.
Our intrepid photograph, Colin Muncie, groped his way through the fog – to once again – provide us with many candid shots of the games.
Match reports will follow shortly.
South Yorkshire Ability Counts League is helping to support vulnerable families in Sheffield over Christmas with their donations. The food bank is based at the @HubChurch1 in Stocksbridge and supports families across the region.
Bradford Green and City Knights Red in Premiership battle
Barton head Sheffield in Championship thriller
Social Eyes sitting pretty in League One
Titans Yellow and Dooley Green neck and neck in League Two
Another hectic day in the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League with four County Cup quarter finals and a League Programme in all four divisions of our open-age 5-a-side competition. The usual huge crowds watched the action and contributed to more huge donations of food and money in support of the Food Bank Drive in support of The Hub Church Bank in Stocksbridge. The SYACL, Stocksbridge Park Steels, Sheffield FC, Penistone Church FC, Handsworth FC and Liberty Speciality Steels, joint supporters of the food drive, would like to thank everyone who contributed to a cause which will make such a difference to disadvantaged families in Sheffield.
Our prolific match reporters watched the action in support of their clubs, filed their reports and editor Margaret Gregory summed up the action for www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com, with the picture gallery already updated on the Website.
On a cold but dry day which finished under the floodlights,the County Cup took centre stage in the first matches of the afternoon at Goals Sheffield. Derek Dooley White from the Premier Division marched into the semi-finals after winning a close encounter with Rawmarsh St. Joseph’s Social Eyes. Dooley’s Claire Cowlishaw told Syacl.com, “Sunday was a successful day for Derek Dooley and saw the Premier White team progress to the semi-finals of the County Cup. The first Cup game was against Social Eyes, and was an even match with both teams having shots saved by the goalkeepers. Jordan Brown was solid in defence and there were some great saves by Craig. Mo passed to Tom on a run up who then passed to Mo who had his shot saved. At half-time it was still goalless, so after a motivating talk by Matt the coach, they came out fighting. Jordan Flowers passed to his brother Luke, and he scored, taking them into the lead. There were some more good saves from Craig to keep them in the lead and then after a run up from Mo they scored a second, sending us through to the semi-finals against City Knights.”
The second quarter-final tie saw an all-Bradford affair between the Diamonds and Greens. Here’s Bradford’s Paul Jubb. “The Diamonds played our own Green team in the County Cup; they gave 100% effort in the 1st half and kept the score to 1-1 Mark scoring, but they tired in the second half to lose 6-1.”
Paul also gave us the Greens’ perspective. “The Greens played our own Diamonds in the County Cup and struggled in the first-half to break down a determined team and kept the score to 1-1. In the 2nd half the Greens showed why they are top of the 5-a-side Premiership with 5 goals and came out comfortable winners 6-1; Charlie 2, Jason 2, Ethan & Lucas scoring.”
City Knights Red won their Cup tie against Sheffield FC Black. Knights Sharon Lavender takes up the story. “Our first match was our Cup Match against Sheffield FC Black and the guys played so well together. Sheffield FC gave us a good game; we were informed we were playing 20 mins with a half-time, however we ended up playing at least 40minutes! I was so proud of them and how they kept their stamina up. Kieron scored our first goal assisted by Chris, then Kieron scored another assisted by Eddie, Sheffield FC scored two, but then Eddie blasted in a goal for us. Final score; we won 3-2.”
Liam Hallett summed up the outcome for Sheffield FC. “Our Premiership team had 3 closely fought games, winning one and losing two; all by the odd-goal. We exited the cup competition with a 3-2 loss against City Knights with two goals from Kyle Johnson.”
In the final tie, City Knights White beat Titans Yellow to complete the semi-final line-up. City Knights White will face Bradford City Green and City Knights Red take on Derek Dooley White; with both games to be played at Goals Doncaster on the 16th January 2022. A big date for your diary!
In the Premiership, Bradford City Green fought out a terrific game with City Knights Red with Sharon Lavender again taking up the story. “We were straight back on, back-to-back matches; the lads were on a high after winning their Cup match, but they were tired and again we were informed it was 20mins with half-time, but no that wasn’t to be! My lads were to endure another 40 mins with a half-time because the referee stopped his watch when there was an injury as he had done in the first game.”
“Bradford scored first; then we got back focused and started scoring back,” Sharon told us. “Kieron scored a solo goal, then he scored another goal with Eddie assisting. Bradford scored so we were drawing, however Mark scored a whopping goal to put us in the lead. We were winning because there was so much team work, and the guys found their strength within, considering they had played over 1 hour continuously – with only a few minutes of half-time.”
Paul Jubb, Bradford Green summed up a thrilling game. “In our first League game we played City Knights and despite having chance after chance we were 3-1 down at half-time. In the second-half 2 great goals from Jason and Ethan got us the 3-3 draw our play deserved.”
“In the final game against Sheffield FC, we lost narrowly 4-3 as their keeper was again unstoppable, and they put all their chances away. Lucas scored 2 beauties and Jason again scored. It was their first defeat and leaves them joint top with City Knights.”
Derek Dooley continued their great form with a win over Sheffield Black, as reported by Claire Cowlishaw. “The next game was against Sheffield Black,” Claire told us. “This was a harder match for the lads, but they battled and worked as a team to come out winners. They took the lead and then went back to 1-1, but with solid defending from Jordan and a good run up by Brandon, who took us into the lead, we won the game 2-1, a good performance by the lads.”
Derek Dooley White Claire continued, “the final game was under the floodlights against the Doncaster Blue team and was another good game. They took the lead first from a power shot from Brandon after many went over the bar. There was solid defending from Jordan and super saves from Craig, but we managed to increase our lead. The game was end-to-end and they got 1 back; Brandon came back on and shot and scored; and then a super shot that sailed in from Tom B saw us come out the winners. So great afternoon for the Whites with a 100% success.”
Liam Hallett summed up the two games for Sheffield FC Black. “Both our League games were closely fought, losing 2-1 in the first League game to Derek Dooley with a goal from Kyle again. In the second League game, an end-to-end game finished 4-3 to Sheffield with goals from Ben, Millie Morgan and Kyle.”
Sharon Lavender gave us her verdict on City Knights Red and their final game with Titans Blue. “The guys had a well-deserved 25mins rest up before playing this match. Titans starting the scoring off to 2-0; then the guys gelled together, dug deep, and found the City Knights football passion and gave a great performance. Mark scored a volley, then not long after Chris got a great goal in the corner of the net; the Titans retaliated and scored; we were losing 3-2, then Kieron smashed it in the net and Chris assisted by Mark won the match for us. The final score was 4-3 to City Knights.”
“We were so proud of the determination and passion and stamina and attitude of our players, and they should be proud of themselves too!”
John Hibbert summed up the afternoon from a Titans Blue perspective. “City Knights versus Titans Blues started well; it was end-to-end and then we started to get control of the game. Connor scored first 1–0. We were dominating the game when Connor scored again; then they scored two goals on the trot. At half-time it was 2-2, but we began to lose focus which allowed them to score again, so they won 3-2.”
Titans Blue then took on Derek Dooley White. “Once the game started, we were in control,” John told us, “Connor scored first then they scored 1-1; they scored again to make it 2-1, then Danny scored to make it 2 -2; they scored again to make it 3-2. Then Connor sent his player the wrong way and scored, but with just a minute to go they scored again – so we lost 4-3.”
So, after six matches, it’s neck and neck between Bradford City Green and City Knights Red, both with thirteen points; Derek Dooley White and Sheffield Black are level on nine points, with Titans Blue fighting to get off the mark.
In the Championship, it was another great day for Barton Inclusive, with two good wins as Sophie Bartrup explains. “Our first match was against Doncaster Ladies,” Sophie told Syacl.com. “We did not get much time to warm up as there were not any spare pitches to train on before the game, but the lads started on the front foot and soon got into their stride. Matt had taken the captains arm band from the absent William and was commanding in his midfield position, passing the ball around the pitch creating chances for our strikers. It wasn’t long before the pressure told, and Inter Barton scored their first goal when Dan popped up and slotted the ball to the keeper’s right-hand side 1-0. The Doncaster keeper pulled off some great saves to keep the score down, but it was just a matter of time before Barton would score again. It was some great interchange passing between Matt and Joel that created that chance and Matt scored making it 2-0. Matt scored his second and Barton’s third very soon after, making it 3-0. Doncaster then brought an extra player on and made it difficult for the Barton players to control the game; with Doncaster having the extra player they started to move forward a lot more trying to create chances of their own, but the Barton Defence held tight – Scotty and James worked their socks off in both games, working so hard for the team and cutting the opposition down to long shots. Unfortunately, it was a long shot that undid Barton’s tight defence, a good shot from a Doncaster striker, but what should havebeen a comfortable save for Stu, the keeper took his eye off the ball and it hit his knee as he went down and squirmed into the corner 3-1.”
“As the second-half started Doncaster put us under pressure from the start, again mostly long shots but the Barton defence held tight and worked so hard for each other, and it was a deflected shot that brought the score to 3-2, game on. After that, each side had a number of chances, and the Doncaster keeper made some more great saves to keep the score down. The game finished 3-2 and although the score was very close it was a deserved win for Inter Barton, the squad played brilliantly working hard for each other making space and good movement, James (coach) swapped the team around during the game and everyone put in a great shift. Jacob was switched on as he got a number of chances and played really well, as did Dan scoring the first goal and battling hard to retain possession, Joel as striker worked hard to get free from his marker, Matt was superb as captain and Scotty and James were quality in defence.”
Next up for Barton was another tough win over Bradford City Ladies. “Bradford City Ladies only had four players, so James (coach) opted to play four also, to make it even,” Sophie told us.
“We started with Joel, Matt and James as outfield players; again, Barton started on the front foot and it wasn’t long before we were putting their keeper under pressure, but to her credit she was outstanding in goal. But the relentless pressure eventually told, and Joel scored the first one 1-0. He quickly followed up with another one, 2-0 then James scored after a great run from defence to make it 3-0. James was like a man possessed he was up and down the pitch all half helping his team, he was quality, shortly after, Joel scored his hat-trick after great work involving all the team 4-0.”
“For the second half James (coach) swapped the players; on came Dan, Scotty and Jacob; Barton kept up the pressure once again and after some great saves by the Bradford keeper the hard-working Dan got his much-deserved goal 5-0. Bradford got their second wind after that and put us under a bit of pressure getting plenty of possession and getting a few shots off, but could not get one back. As the game was running down on the clock Jacob popped up and scored a late goal, his hard work paid off 6-0.”
“Well done guys, you really are becoming a quality team, and I think you can only get better,” Sophie added, “I would also like to say a big thank you to James (coach) and Lauryn, also for the great support from the parents who came. You cheered on the lads all through the games. It was brilliant!!!”
Steph Hall summed up the afternoon for Club Doncaster Titans Ladies. “Titans Ladies lost 3-2 to Barton after goals from Nikita and Helen,” Steph told us. “It was a good game played by both teams, but Barton started strongly and pulled ahead with a three-goal lead. The ladies started to create more chances and pulled a goal back with a strike from Nikita. Both teams continued to create chances with our ladies continuing to defend well. The ladies pulled another goal back from a long-range effort from Helen and they continued to create chances and nearly found an equaliser. In the end Barton held on for the win despite a brilliant performance by the ladies.”
Next up for Titans was a huge clash with Bradford Diamonds, where Helen scored twice with two assists from Nikita. “This was another good game played by both teams,” Steph admitted, “the ladies started strongly creating many chances which resulted in them getting the first goal of the game which was scored by Helen and assisted by Nikita. Bradford then pulled one back, but shortly after the ladies replied with another goal scored by Helen who was assisted by Nikita. Bradford found another goal to equalise for the second time in the game. Both teams continued to create chances making it a tense finish to the game. Bradford scored the goal that won them the game. In the end it was another brilliant performance by the Ladies, but Bradford came out on top.”
Paul Jubb gave us Bradford Diamonds take on the afternoon. “In the League they played Sheffield FC in a very close game, but they lost 2-1 although Harvinder scored a great goal.”
“Their last game of the day was against Doncaster Titans Women team where they went down 1-0, then 2-1, but came out 3-2 winners in the end. Harvinder scoring 2 more and Matty scoring the winner. It was a tough afternoon for Bradford Fuchsia, the women’s team,” Paul added. “The Fuchsia ladies team again only had 4 on the day and really struggled, losing to Sheffield FC 4-0 and Barton 6-0.”
Scott Gregory summed up a good day for Sheffield FC. “Sheffield FC’s newly formed 5-a-side championship team continued their good form with another 2 victories, meaning 4 wins on the spin,” Scott was delighted to tell www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. “Our first game saw a 4-0 win versus Bradford City Women with goals from Blake with two, Charley and Steven.”
“Our second game was an excellent closely-fought game typifying the spirit of the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League. Sheffield came out with a 2-1 victory over Bradford City Diamonds with goals from Charley and Blake. We would like to mention Russell, who again was a rock wall in defence.”
So, six games in and Barton Inclusive lead the way with a one hundred percent record, a six-point advantage over Sheffield FC Purple. It’s a close fight for third between Bradford Diamonds and Bradford Ladies, with Titans Ladies not getting the luck they deserve.
In League One, Derek Dooley Blue started their campaign against City Knights White and saw them take the lead from a super shot from Believe, but this was short lived as they got one past Ryan,” Claire Cowlishaw told us. “The heads weren’t down, and they fought back, but Ryan couldn’t stop the last shot, so their first game was a loss. 2-1. There was some solid defending from Cody and lovely runs from Rueben who played and passed with Adursh up to Believe who hit the crossbar.”
“Our next game was against Social Eyes and was another even match, but they took the lead from a toe poke from Believe,” Claire told us. “Ryan was in impressive form saving some great shots to keep them in the lead, then one 1 got past Ryan so they were drawn. Jordan did some good defending, passing the ball up to Believe who scored for a second time. Reuben was tenacious up front and battled for the ball and then scored for them to win 3-1.”
“Their final game was against City Knights,” Claire continued, “they showed their team spirit and Reuben had a shot saved, then they ran down the other way and shot past Ryan, putting us behind. The players gave their all and Rueben had a shot and scored taking it back to a draw. There was some good play in the middle from Adursh and Jordan up to Believe who hit the crossbar. It came off the wall and went past their goalkeeper to bring us back level. This was a good performance from all the team today.”
The last game of the day saw an absolutely wonderful game between Rawmarsh St. Joseph’s and Spartans, with Colin (Rawmarsh) and Mike’s (Spartans) teams in close competition. It was a fantastic match, with Social Eyes winning by 7-6 after an end-to end thriller. Both teams provided fantastic entertainment and great skill.
So, after six games it’s Social Eyes who have a five-point lead over City Knights White and Derek Dooley Blue. Spartans deserve so much more than their position suggests.
Just three games in League Two due to Covid restrictions, but thankfully a good day for Derek Dooley Green, as Claire Cowlishaw told us. “Our League 2 Green team only had 2 matches today, but they had a good afternoon winning them both and scoring lots of goals, which always makes them smile.”
“The first game was against Doncaster Titans Yellow with 6-a-side to give them all match time. Woody got off to a blistering start and scored 2 in quick succession, he was dribbling round a couple of players and his shot went in. We brought him off for a quick rest and Titans got 1 past Beth after she had saved a few shots. Stephen went up the wing and scored taking us back up in front, then Woody came back on and he passed to Ben who put 1 in and followed by Shaq, with his loud celebration everyone knew he had scored a goal. He came off for a drink and Stephen went in goal and Natalie in defence and Bethany who battled, then the deafening sound of Shaq meant we knew he had scored again. This was evened out when they scored and went from 4-3 to 5-4, 6-5 and then the final shot from Ben gave us the win.”
“The second game was against Bradford Emeralds,” Claire continued. “This saw Woody dribble past, but his shot was saved. Bradford had a shot which went past Bethany, but then down to Woody who was playing like Messi today, scored to bring us level. Ben got the ball on the right and had a shot, which went past the goalkeeper. Natalie needed a rest and came off, but this didn’t stop the team from trying their best, which saw Ben have a super shot which sailed past the goalkeeper 3-1, then Bradford got 1 back so 3-2. The team kept on going and then Shaq had another shot which went in, and I think everyone at Goals knew he had scored again! Each time Bradford came back; and then Woody dribbled past a couple of players to take us back into a 2-goal lead. They all left incredibly happy, and they all did amazingly well today. Well done!”
Paul Jubb summed up the afternoon for Bradford City Emeralds. “The Emeralds lost both their games to Doncaster Titans and Derek Dooley but most of our players scored on the day which meant they went home happy in the end!”
“Titans Yellow won their first match against Bradford City Emeralds as Paul made it 1-0 to Titans; Bradford scored to make it 1-1,” Liam Taylor told www.southyorkshireability countsleague.com. “Paul made it 2-1 to Titans and Barney scored to make it 3-1 to Titans and Bradford made it 3-2; Matt scored to make it 4-2 and Bradford made it 4-3; Matt B scored to make it 5-3 to Titans, then Paul scored to make it 6-3 to Titans. It was a great performance from the lads and a great result for the team and I am proud of them all – well done!”
Titans Yellow then took on Derek Dooley Green, but lost 7-5. “Derek Dooley scored to 1-0 and they made it 2-0 after kick off; Paul scored to make it 2-1; then Titans made it 2-2 from a goal from Paul,” Liam told us. “Derek Dooley scored 3-2 and 4-2; Titans scored with a goal from Barney to make it 4-3; Titans then made it with a goal from Paul to make it 4-4; Derek Dooley scored to make 5-4 and then 6-4; Titans battled back to make it 6-5 with a goal from Barney, but then Derek Dooley scored once more to make it 7-5.”
“Well played everyone today and I am proud of each and every one of you!”
So, two matchdays in and Titans Yellow and Derek Dooley Green have a big lead over Bradford City Emeralds and City Knights White.
So, the last week of the 5-a-side League for 2021 is in the bag and we look forward to January’s fixtures.
Next week, the 7-a-side League finishes the calendar year at Concord Sports Centre. There will be a last chance to donate food or cash for the Stocksbridge foodbank drive, so please give generously if you can. For latest news and reports on League and Cup action, check out www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com or our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram sites.
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