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;
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 1st 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.
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 1st 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.
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, 13th 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.
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.
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.
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