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.

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.

You can find them at www.twentytwoshop.com and on Twitter @twentytwoshopuk

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 over Hillsborough 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.  

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Sheffield FC Youth U13 SFCD U-13s Red	12	10	1	1	9	31
2	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Claret	12	8	1	3	5	25
3	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Blues	12	7	2	3	4	23
4	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	12	5	0	7	-2	15
5	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Wildca	12	3	0	9	-6	9
6	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U12 O	12	1	0	11	-10	3

The Junior Leagues will be back in action, with the Under-16’s this time, on the 6^{th of} February at Doncaster Goals.

In the meantime, check out the picture gallery at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com for the collection of images from Sunday’s action.

Unbeaten Barton clinch Championship title after two great wins

League One awaits Wheatley deciders with Sheffield FC (White)

So, into 2022, and everyone at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com wishes our players, coaches, spectators, referees and readers a Happy New Year.

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.

1	Sheffield FC Red (Disability)	8	7	1	0	7	22
2	City Knights Black	8	6	2	0	6	20
3	Sheffield FC Blue (Disability)	8	3	0	5	-2	9
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	8	2	1	5	-3	7
5	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) White	8	2	1	5	-3	7
6	Bradford City FITC Disability Amber	8	1	1	6	-5	4

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.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Barton At	6	6	0	0	6	18
2	Brunsmeer Awareness Awarness	6	4	0	2	2	12
3	Bradford City FITC Disability Blues	6	2	0	4	-2	6
4	Derek Dooley Football Academy Sheffield	5	1	1	3	-2	4
5	Derek Dooley Football Academy Orange	5	0	1	4	-4	1

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.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Wheatley Wanderers SYACL	6	5	1	0	5	16
2	Sheffield FC White (Disability)	6	4	1	1	3	13
3	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Red	6	2	0	4	-2	6
4	City Knights Blue	6	1	2	3	-2	5
5	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	6	1	0	5	-4	3

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.

As always, the latest reports, news and images are available here at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com, or on our Twitter and Instagram sites.

The photos from today’s seven-a-side games at Concord Sports Centre are now in the gallery and match reports will follow shortly.

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.

The South Yorkshire Ability Counts League wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our members.

We hope you have a wonderful time with your families / carers / support workers / guardians and friends and stay safe throughout.

See you all in 2022.

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 27^{th 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.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Sheffield FC Red (Disability)	6	5	1	0	5	16
2	City Knights Black	6	4	2	0	4	14
3	Sheffield FC Blue (Disability)	6	3	0	3	0	9
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	6	1	1	4	-3	4
5	Bradford City FITC Disability Amber	6	1	1	4	-3	4
6	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) White	6	1	1	4	-3	4

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.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Barton At	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	Bradford City FITC Disability Blues	4	2	0	2	0	6
3	Brunsmeer Awareness Awarness	4	2	0	2	0	6
4	Derek Dooley Football Academy Sheffield	3	1	0	2	-1	3
5	Derek Dooley Football Academy Orange	3	0	0	3	-3	0

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.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Wheatley Wanderers SYACL	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	Sheffield FC White (Disability)	4	2	1	1	1	7
3	City Knights Blue	4	1	1	2	-1	4
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	4	1	0	3	-2	3
5	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Red	4	1	0	3	-2	3

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 City scored 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 27^th, why not get yourself up to Stocksbridge Park Steels v Sheffield FC on 27^th December. Kick off at 3p.m.