Matchday 12th December are now in the gallery, match reports will follow shortly.

Sheffield FC head the pack in Under 12’s at Goals Sheffield

Huge collection for Stocksbridge Food Bank Drive

After Match Day Three of the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League, we have a clear leader in the Under-16’s competition, as Club Doncaster Titans stretched their advantage at the top of the table to nine points with their two wins at Goals Sheffield on Sunday afternoon (6^th December).

In the Under-12’s Division, however, it’s a little closer, with leaders Sheffield FC (Red), Bradford City (Blue) and Bradford City (Claret) all within four points of each other going into the Christmas break.

The matches were brilliantly supported, and there was a food and cash collection in support of the Food Bank drive supported by Stocksbridge Park Steels FC, Sheffield FC, Penistone Church FC, Liberty Steel Group and the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League. The collection raised a full box of food and several hundred pounds for this fantastic cause. The SYACL would like to thank everyone for their amazing contributions.

As always, our brilliant club reporters were all over the action, which is summarised, as usual, by our www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com editor, Margaret Gregory.

It was cold, but dry at Goals Sheffield as Sheffield Blue got the Under-16’s Division afternoon off to a rousing start with a high scoring win over Bradford City Amber. Sheffield’s Pete Donohoe summed up the game. “Our game against Bradford was a real end-to-end goal feast. We went 3-0 up with goals from Kaiden, Lewis and Sophia before Bradford pulled one back. Lewis and Matt got the next 2 to make it 5-1 but Bradford kept going and pulled a goal back, before we ended our scoring with another goal from Matt to take it to 6-2. Bradford wasn’t finished and scored another goal before the whistle. A great game played with brilliant sportsmanship.”

Bradford’s Paul Jubb agreed that the result was the right one. “The Under 16’s played Sheffield FC in the first game,” Paul told us. “We went 3-0 down in the first-half, then goals from Shane 2 and Jonathan, pulled it back to 3-3, but Sheffield did well in the last 5 minutes, as we went down to 4 players, and scored 3 more to deservedly win 6-3.”

Next up saw another close win for Club Doncaster Titans against Hillsborough Hornets (Black). Here’s Titan’s coach John Hibbert, “we started slow, then we shook our heads and played our game, which included some lovely football. James scored assisted by Devon 1-0 then they scored 1-1; then Devon scored to make it 2-1; then James scored 3-1; they scored again 3-2 then Levi gets injured; Danny wasn’t on long before he scored assisted by James 4-2; then James crosses the ball across goal forcing them to make an own goal, so we won 5-2.”

Bradford City Amber then got back on the winning trail with a good win over Hornets Yellow. “Some great football was played by our Amber team passing and working together as a team and making more tackles than in the first game,” Bradford’s Paul Jubb explained. We were rewarded with a 6-2 win. Shane 4, Jonathan and then Eesa scored his first goal in the League.”

“Our star man on the day was Shane, who certainly had his scoring boots on!” 

Sheffield Red were edged out in a close game with Hornets Black, but were in no way disgraced. “Our game against Hornets was an extremely fast and competitive game. We peppered their goal, but the Hornets stand-in keeper was incredible. We conceded 2 goals in the first-half but managed to pull 2 back with goals from Kaiden and Matt; and with only a minute to go the Hornets scored from a long-range effort. Our team made a huge improvement from previous fixtures, so this was definitely viewed as a victory.”

The final game of Matchday three saw leaders Club Doncaster Titans see off Hillsborough Hornets Yellow.  John Hibbert summarised the game for www.syacl.com “The game started end-to-end, then James scored assisted by Danny 1-0. Hornets got the ball but missed a shot on goal and Owen passed to James who scored to make it 2-0. Then Hornets scored to make it 2-1; Danny won the ball from one of their players and scored to make it 3-1. Hornets scored again 3-2; unfortunately, Danny was injured and so had to go off; Devon replaced him; they scored again for 4-2. Levi scored making it 5-2 assisted by James then Levi scored again, and we won 6-4.”

So, after three Match days Titans have a perfect record and lead the way with 18 points. Hornets Black and Hornets Yellow have nine points each, with Bradford City Amber and Sheffield FC Blue both improving each week.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	6	6	0	0	6	18
2	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 Y	6	3	0	3	0	9
3	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 b	6	3	0	3	0	9
4	Bradford City FITC Disability U16 Amber	6	2	0	4	-2	6
5	Sheffield FC Youth U16 SFCD Blue	6	1	0	5	-4	3

So, to the Under 12’s Division, with Bradford Blues first on against Bradford Wildcats. Here’s Bradford’s Paul Jubb, “the Blues won 4-3 against the Wildcats,“ Paul told us, “it was a close game, but the Blues just got the extra goal to ensure the win.“

Paul summed up the afternoon for the Blues. “The Blues were involved in another close game, this time losing 3-4 to top of the table Sheffield FC Reds; and then The Blues won 5-0 vs Hillsborough Hornets. Our star player on the day was Callum.”

 Next up, and a tremendous game between Club Doncaster Titans and Sheffield FC Red. Titans Martin Taylor takes up the story, “it was an entertaining end-to-end game, brilliantly played by both teams. Jacob B got us in the lead early on then Sheffield went ahead with some quick-fire goals. We then pulled back level with two goals from Jacob R and a goal from Bella. In the last few minutes Sheffield scored two late goals to win the game.”

Sheffield’s Pete Donohoe summed up the win. “The first game of the day for Sheffield FC was against Doncaster Titans who took an early lead after pouncing on an error at the back. Fortunately, Brad brought his shooting boots and quickly redeemed himself with two fantastic strikes from long range to put Sheffield 2-1 up. Henry then scored his first of the day with a well-placed finish in a one-on-one. Kyle also got off the mark to make the score line 4-1 and looking comfortable.
Then three quick goals for Doncaster brought then right back in it and set up a thrilling last few minute. With the game looking like it could go either way and Doncaster carrying all the momentum, Noah broke through and scored on the counter attack before Kyle scored his second of the game to make the final score 6-4.”

Sheffield then faced a clash with title rivals Bradford City Blues. ”A top of the table clash with Bradford Blues,” Pete Donohoe told us, “and Kyle opened the scoring with a well-struck half-volley into the corner of the goal. A well worked free kick for Bradford got them back in the game to make it 1-1. Two goals were then disallowed for Sheffield FC after confusion with the players being allowed/not allowed in the box rules. Kyle scored again to put Sheffield ahead before Noah hit a long range shot to make the score 3-1. A valiant Bradford pulled two goals back to level things up at 3-3. With the game looking like a well-earned draw for both teams, Cam scored the winner with almost the last kick of the game.”

Meanwhile, Bradford’s Paul Jubb gave us his assessment of the Bradford Wildcat’s afternoon. “The Wildcats had a better day, they only lost 3-4 to Clarets; Massie scored 2 and Skye got the other in a close game.” 

Unfortunately, they then lost 0-2 to Blues, but again were unlucky scoring an own goal.” 

“In the last game the Wildcats lost to Doncaster Titans having to play with only 4 players due to an injury. Skye was star player on the day, but Lena was amazing in goal too! The girls can be proud of how they are coming along and it’s only a matter of time before they will get their first win.”

Paul Jubb summed up the afternoon for Bradford Clarets, who won their first game with Hillsborough Hornets.  “Despite letting the other team play all their players, the Clarets still won easily on the day. Alfie with 3, Patrick with 3 and Isaac, all scored.” 

“They then won 2-0 vs Wildcats. A lucky own goal and a rare goal from Alex sealed the win.” 

“Clarets then won again vs Doncaster Titans, again letting the opposition bring extra players on. Patrick scored 3 and Alfie and Isaac scored goals.”

“Our star player on the day was Patrick. It was another great day at Sheffield Goals for Bradford City DFC.” 

Sheffield’s Pete Donohoe gave www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com his view on that Wildcats’ clash. Our final game of the day was against an injury hit Bradford Wildcats who started the game with 4 players (Sorry we didn’t realise until half-way through the game). Cam and Brad opened the scoring before Bradford hit back to halve the deficit and make it 2-1. Noah and Kyle both then scored to make the game 4-1. Unfortunately, with only seconds of the game remaining the Bradford goalkeeper was injured and the game was called short. We wish her well in her recovery.”

Titan’s Steph Hall reflected on their final two games. First, against Hillsborough Hornets, ”another brilliant game played by both teams. After a tight start to the game, we pulled ahead with a goal from Bella. It continued to be close and tense with many chances for both teams until Bella got her second goal of the game. In the end we held on and got another goal from a free-kick scored by Jacob B. There was a standout performance from the Hillsborough goalkeeper, who played really well and made some good saves which kept them in the game.“

Titans then went down to defeat against Bradford City Claret. “This was a good game played between the two teams,” Steph told us. “Our team played very well and battled hard against an exceptionally good Bradford Claret team. In the end the better team won.”

So, nine games in and it’s tight at the top, with Sheffield Red having a three point lead over Bradford Blue, with Bradford Claret a further point behind. Fourth-placed Titans have 15 points, with Bradford Wildcats and Hornets getting better every week.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Sheffield FC Youth U13 SFCD U-13s Red	9	7	1	1	6	22
2	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Blues	9	6	1	2	4	19
3	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Claret	9	6	0	3	3	18
4	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	9	5	0	4	1	15
5	Bradford City FITC Disability U12 Wildcats	9	1	0	8	-7	3
6	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U12 O	9	1	0	8	-7	3

The action stays at Goals Sheffield next week, as the 5-a-side competition resumes. Remember, all the news and action can be found at www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com and on our Twitter and Instagram sites.

Yesterday’s matchday photos are across in the gallery, but here’s a few to wet your appetites.

Fantastic boots with the multicolour laces surprised one little visitor! But look at the smiles of enjoyment on the faces of the players.

Well done South Yorkshire Ability Counts League, managers and coaches for the organisation and safety precautions behind these matchdays.

In light of the new Omicron coronavirus variant that is causing much concern, the League are now asking all our players, team officials and spectators to wear face coverings on our match days when indoors at the venues.

Many of our members are extremely vulnerable to illness should they get the virus and so, we all have to make an effort to make our match days as safe as we can and minimise risks as much as possible.

I appreciate some people are exempt from wearing face coverings, but would expect most people attending to adhere to our request.

Let’s make sure our League logo is a safety logo!

The South Yorkshire Ability Counts League is proud to be associated with Stocksbridge Park Steels, who are fundraising for the Stocksbridge Hub foodbank.

At the SYACL match days in December, at Concord Sports Centre and Goals Sheffield, a drop box will be available for the collection of important foodstuffs and hygiene products. If you prefer to make a cash donation, collection boxes will be available.               

Non – perishable foodstuffs please :
Teabags, Coffee, UHT Milk, Cartons of fruit juice, dried pasta, rice, tins of meat/tuna, tinned tomatoes, tinned beans, tinned/instant potatoes, tinned soup, jars of pasta sauce, breakfast cereal, tinned fruit, tinned vegetables.            

The Hub is an independent foodbank, one of 2,500 food banks in the UK, and part of the Sheffield Foodbank network, which also includes the S6 and Philadelphia food banks.
The Foodbank is operated by ten local volunteers and has been in operation for over ten years. During its life, the Foodbank has supported over four thousand families, from Stocksbridge and Oughtibridge, but also from Penistone and as far away as Rotherham.

The league hope that all our clubs and their individual teams make an effort to support such a wonderful cause. Please pass this message onto all your players / families / carers , so we can all help to collect as much foodstuffs, hygiene products and money, as possible .

Please all get involved and collect as much as you can. It will be very much appreciated  – especially at this time of the year! 

169 SYACL goals in a hectic 5-a-side afternoon at Goals Doncaster.

It was dry, but bitterly cold for Matchday 2 of the South Yorkshire Ability Counts held in front of a big crowd at Goals Doncaster on Sunday (21^st November), and most of the players had their shooting boots on as the net bulged 169 times in over two hours of competition. As always, www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com Website Editor Margaret Gregory and her team of ace match reporters missed none of the action on another thrilling afternoon.

Three County Cup ties kicked off the afternoon, and the Wembley dream is still alive for City Knights (Red), Sheffield FC (Black) and Derek Dooley FC (White). Dooley (White) were up against Doncaster FC (Ladies), a game watched by Dooley’s Claire Cowlishaw, “The White team started the afternoon on their cup campaign against the Doncaster Ladies,” Claire told syacl.com. “This was a tough match; the Doncaster goalkeeper had an outstanding match and kept them in it for a while. Brandon opened the scoring and had one disallowed; the team did well and went on to win the match and progress into the quarter finals.”

Cup dream over then, for Titans ladies’ team. “The match started off with some lovely play between both sides and you wouldn’t have believed there is a league difference between each team. The game was played in a lovely nature and the Titans Ladies were very unlucky to concede the first goal. They put pressure on to get the equaliser, but Derek Dooley (White) scored another one to make it two.”

Derek Dooley Blue team exited the County Cup after a loss to Sheffield Black. Claire from Dooley again summed up the game. “The team started their cup campaign against Premier side Sheffield Black; this was a tough game for the 5 of them, with no subs. They started off with solid defending by Cody and great goalkeeping from Ryan. They took the double lead with good shots, but the heads didn’t go down and with a smile Believe scored, and there was some good play by Rueben and Adursh. The play was end-to-end and saw Sheffield take the lead to 6-3 with another goal from Rueben and Adursh. The cup dream is over.”

Cup defeat too for Spartans who went down bravely to Premier side City Knights White.
“Spartans started off strongly,” their coach Darren Sharp explained. “They took the lead through a brilliant individual goal, however, soon after Knights equalised & quickly took control by taking a healthy 6-1 lead at half-time. In the second-half Spartans managed to claw a few goals back from Jacob & Matt, but City Knights eventually proved too strong.”

Into the Premier League, and a narrow win for Dooley White against Titans Blue. “This was a closer game and Luke opened the scoring,” Claire told us. “They equalised and there was some very good defending from Jordan B and good goalkeeping from Craig; the shots that did get past him were good shots, hard for him to stop. Dooley took the lead and then back to a draw, but they came out winners 3-2; this gave the lads a boost.” 

Titans John Hibbert watched the same, thrilling game. “We got off to a good start; first Jamie scored assisted by Connor which made it 1 – 0,” John reported. “Connor scored to make it 2 – 0 and we thought we were going to win our first game, but Derek Dooley had other ideas. At half-time we were winning 2 – 0, but I changed some players and I think I maybe weakened the team and Derek Dooley scored to make it 2 – 1. We then got a free kick and Danny went for goal and the keeper saved it, and that gave them hope. They scored but just before the whistle they scored again which made it 3- 2 to Derek Dooley, but what a game!”

“This was the best the blue team has played all season.”

Bradford City DFC made a good start to the afternoon with a narrow win over Sheffield FC Black. Bradford’s Paul Jubb reported, “The Greens only had 5 players and started their day against joint leaders Sheffield FC. In a tight 1st-half man of the match Jason got the 1st goal, a wonder strike from half-way. Sheffield FC pulled 1 back. In the 2nd-half it was all one way, but the Sheffield FC keeper was unbelievable, pulling out save after save, but eventually we got the goal our play deserved with another great goal from Ethan.”

Dooley (White) finished their afternoon with a loss to City Knights [Red]. Here’s Claire’s take on the game from a Dooley perspective. “The final game in the cold against City Knights Red, was a harder match for the lads; they started well, working together, all needing to defend against a strong side. There was some lovely play by Birthday boy Mo but his shot was saved. They managed to get a shot past Craig, giving them a lead; they continued to battle hard and had to defend with Jordan B being solid in defence, but they took a 3-0 lead. We scored a consolation goal finishing 3-1, but this was the best performance of the day by the team despite the loss.”

“They showed good skills and teamwork by them all. Well, done lads!”

The final Premier Division game of the afternoon saw Titans (Blue) go down after a terrific battle with Bradford City (Green). Titans’ John Hibbert reports. “First Conner scored 1 – 0 then they scored. They got a penalty and scored 2 – 1 then Bradford was awarded a free kick and scored; 3 – 1 at half time. I subbed Addison for Connor and he scored again, so then it was 3 – 2 but they got a wayward shot which the lads thought was going wide, but it crept in so Bradford won 4 – 2.” 

Bradford’s Paul Jubb added, “in our Greens second game, we were too strong for Club Doncaster Titans; Charlie 2, Ethan & Jason were the scorers. The opposition keeper again making numerous saves.

In other Premier fixtures, City  Knights(Red) won their first fixture of the afternoon against Sheffield Black by 3-1.

After two match days and four games, Bradford Green head the table with a one hundred percent record; they lead City Knights Red by just three points. Sheffield FC (Black) are three further points behind, and Dooley White are fourth with their one win. The improving Titans Blue will look forward to getting off the mark in December’s fixtures.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Bradford City FITC Disability Green	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	City Knights Red	4	3	0	1	2	9
3	Sheffield FC Disability 5-a-side (Black)	4	2	0	2	0	6
4	Derek Dooley Football Academy White	4	1	0	3	2	3
5	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Blue	4	0	0	4	4	0

Into the Championship then, and a narrow defeat for Club Doncaster Titans Ladies at the hands of Sheffield FC Purple. Titan’s Martin Taylor told syacl.com. “This was another really close game between teams. Both keepers were pulling off save after save keeping it level; but the game was turned by a goal to Sheffield FC. Titan’s Ladies kept battling on, but unfortunately could not get the equaliser to get the draw they deserved.”

Bradford City DFC Fuchsia went down to Sheffield FC Purple after a cracking game. “The ladies team only had 4 players on the day,” Paul Jubb told us, “and went down 3 – 0 in the 1st-half, Sheffield FC then went down to 4 players and the Ladies scored 3 goals in the second half, Harriet with 2, and Anna the scorers.”

Title chasing Inter Barton Inclusive Football Club were convincing winners over Bradford City Diamonds. “Barton were too strong on the day,” Bradford’s Paul Jubb admitted, “and nothing seemed to go right for the Diamonds. Despite some good saves from Mark, they still lost 4- 0.” Barton marched on with a good win over Bradford City DFC Fuchsia, watched by Paul Jubb. ”The ladies again played with just 4 players and lost 6 – 3 to top of the table Barton who again played just 4 players. The girls did themselves proud and were all stars on the day. Anna scored two and there was an own goal.”

Titans’ Ladies final game of the day saw them reach a fantastic landmark – their first point of the campaign after it finished Bradford City (Diamonds) 3 – 3 Club Doncaster Titans Ladies. “Titans Ladies kept fighting, like they have been doing all day, and it paid off for them as we scored first with a goal by Nikita and an assist by Sheridan,” Martin explained. “Both teams kept battling on and Bradford managed to equalise making it 1 – 1. The game stepped up another level and Titans Ladies managed to score another goal from Nikita; and then Bradford managed to equalised to make it 2 – 2 at half-time. Bradford started the second-half the better team, but some brilliant saves by Kaz Roberts in the Titans net kept the score level, however a fluke goal by Bradford made it 3 – 2. The Titans Ladies kept battling on and deserved an equaliser; with more brilliant saves from Kaz Roberts keeping them in the game. Then the Titans Ladies broke away and Sheridan passed the ball Nikita who scored her third goal and completed a hat trick, making the game 3 – 3 at the final whistle.”

“I was so proud of each of the Ladies in getting their first points of the campaign. It was great to stand in again, as their manager on the day,” Martin summed up.

Bradford’s Paul Jubb admitted that it had been a wonderful game with a fair result. “In a great game of end to end football; Harry, Matty and Hashim scored the goals, but the Doncaster ladies kept battling to deservedly get their first point of the season.”

Barton Inter head the table with four wins from four games, giving them a six-point advantage over Bradford City Women’s team and Sheffield FC (Purple). Bradford Diamonds have four points, and Titans’ Ladies are off the mark after that stunning draw with the Diamonds.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Inter Bar	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	Bradford City FITC Disability Women’s	4	2	0	2	0	6
3	Sheffield FC 5’s (Purple)	4	2	0	2	0	6
4	Bradford City FITC Disability Diamonds	4	1	1	2	1	4
5	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Ladies	4	0	1	3	3	1

In League One, Derek Dooley Blue had a good win over Spartans. “It was a League game next for Dooley Blue against Spartans, who played more of their players, and this was a good-natured game which saw them take the lead from Believe and Rueben,” Claire told us. “It saw some good defending by Cody and good goalkeeping by Ryan. Believe got his hat trick and also Rueben and Adursh scored with the game finishing 9-3. Rueben ended up with a ball to the face, which put him out for the next match.”

Spartans Martin Sharp admitted that it had been a tough twenty minutes. “Spartans were indebted to Jake for some brilliant goalkeeping and defensive interceptions by Sam & Dom & Oliver, which kept the score fairly close. A couple of early goals by Matt kept Spartans in the match during the first-half, but as in their first match the players were struggling with their opponent’s superiority.”

Dooley Blue rounded off the afternoon with another brilliant encounter against Rawmarsh St. Joseph’s Social Eyes Green. “The Dooley team tried the hardest with 4 players and was a good match,” Claire told us. “Within 3 minutes it was 1 – 1; then Believe scored with a toe poke taking it to 2 – 1 and then he got his hat trick taking it to 3 – 1. Ryan made some good saves and with solid defending by Cody, they brought it back to 3 – 3. The game then swung in the favour of Rawmarsh 4 – 3, Adursh equalled it up, 4 – 4, Rawmarsh scored again and then Believe scored again with the score going to 5 – 4, then 5 – 5 and the last-minute saw Rawmarsh take the lead to win 6 – 5. The team of 4 did show amazing perseverance, so well done to all our players!”

Elsewhere in League One, City Knights (White) went down to Social Eyes Green in a thrilling encounter but beat Aston Swallownest in their next game.

That narrow win preserved Rawmarsh St. Joseph Social Eyes Green’s unbeaten record and they lead the table by three points from City Knights (White) and Derek Dooley (Blue), both of whom have nine points. Aston Swallownest and Spartans will be looking forward to getting off the mark at Goals Sheffield next month.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Rawmarsh St Joseph’s J.F.C. Social Eyes	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	City Knights White	4	3	0	1	2	9
3	Derek Dooley Football Academy Blue	4	3	0	1	2	9
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	4	0	0	4	4	0
5	Spartans FC	4	0	0	4	4	0

In League Two, Titans Yellow won a high scoring battle with Rawmarsh Social Eyes White. “First shot for Titans and Christian scored to make it 1 – 0; Christian then made it 2 – 0 and Barney made it 3 – 0 with a great goal,” Liam Taylor told us. “Barney scored to make 4 – 0 and Social eyes made it 4 – 1. Brad then saved a penalty and Social Eyes scored making it 5 – 2. Barney completed his hat trick to make 6 – 2 and Paul scored 7 – 2. Social Eyes had another penalty and Brad saved it again, then Thomas scored to make it 8 – 2. Social eyes made it 8 -3 and Titans made it 9 – 3 thanks to Paul’s hat trick.”

“It was a great performance from the Titans yellow team: I am really proud of each and every one of them – they played great.”

Derek Dooley Green started their afternoon with a League match against Bradford Emeralds,” Claire from Derek Dooley told syacl.com. “Bethany had a good half in the goal stopping many shots, Dooley took the lead by a good run up from Ben. Then some good defending by Stephen, who had a good run up the left and scored taking it to a 2 – 0 lead. Bradford got a deflection bringing it to 2 – 1 and then a good shot bringing it back to 2 – 2. Then came some lovely passing between Ben and Stephen and up to Natalie who scored, taking them back in the lead. In the second-half Bradford then had a lapse of memory and scored in the wrong net. Stephen went in goal and Shaq came on. This was end-to-end and each run up the pitch saw another goal, Woody scored a great goal from the right 5 – 4, Bradford got it back to 5 – 5 and then Shaq scored in the right net and went to 6 – 5, and then again to take it to 7 – 6 with his loud goal celebration. Woody had another run up and scored, with them winning 8 – 6.”

“It was a good match and all of them enjoyed the game.”

Bradford’s Paul Jubb agreed. “Wow what a game,” Paul told us. “In an evenly matched game, the goals just kept flying in! First Derek Dooley would score then the Emeralds scored, but the decisive goal of the game came from hat trick hero Darren who, unfortunately, scored in his own goal after forgetting we had changed ends!! Ha Ha; 6 – 7 our scorers were Katrina with 2, Darren with 3, and Simon and Francis with one goal each.”

In the other League Two fixture, Bradford Green beat Social Eyes White in a high scoring battle on Pitch 5. “Another evenly fought game,” Paul Jubb told us. “The Emeralds took a 3 goal lead; Social Eyes brought on the extra player and started to pull goals back, but the Emeralds held out for their 1st win of the season, by 6 – 5, thanks to goals from Simon with 2, Darren, Debbie, Katrina and Francis.”

Three games in then, and Titans Yellow have a three-point lead over Dooley Green. Bradford City Emerald are a further three points adrift, with Social Eyes White improving every week.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Yellow	3	3	0	0	3	9
2	Derek Dooley Football Academy Green	3	2	0	1	1	6
3	Bradford City FITC Disability Emeralds	3	1	0	2	1	3
4	City Knights White	0	0	0	0	0	0
5	Rawmarsh St Joseph’s J.F.C. Social Eyes	3	0	0	3	3	0

Away from League competition, Derek Dooley (Green) enjoyed a friendly with Titans Yellow. Claire Cowlishaw told syacl.com, “Our next match was a friendly against Titans Yellow and with it being cold we played all the players to stop them getting cold. There was some good play by them all with Woody showing his skills taking the run up and scoring taking the lead 1 – 0. The kick-off saw some good defending by Ben, passing up to Woody who scored again, 2 – 0. The Titans went up and scored past Bethany who had a good try to save it, 2 – 1. There was some lovely play and Ben had a super shot from halfway that looped up and into the bottom corner, 3 – 1. Titans played some good football, but Shaq took the ball and scored 4 – 1, Woody had another good run up and scored again taking it to 5 – 1.”

“This was a great performance from all the players.”

Liam Taylor summed up the game from a Titans viewpoint, “Derek Dooley scored to make 1 – 0 and Matt Blackham scored for the Titans to make it 1 – 1; Derek scored to make it 2 – 1, then 3 – 1 and Derek Dooley scored again to make it 4 – 1.”

So, the floodlights fade on another cracking afternoon of South Yorkshire Ability Counts football. We have a week or two to get our breath back before the Junior Leagues are back in action. Thanks to all of our fantastic players, coaches, and spectators for another thrilling spectacle.

A special word too for our referees – Sean, Gary, Dennis, and Andrew (who stepped in as a reserve referee on Pitch 5). Many thanks guys, as always.

In the meantime, visit http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com for reports, news, and pictures of the action.

Matchday photos from Sunday 21st November 2021 at Doncaster are now in the gallery. Match reports will follow shortly.

Come and join us for fun & inclusive football for U12’s and U16’s regardless of ability or disability! @OLPSheffield 6-7pm – Mondays – join us! 

Barton and Wheatley stay unbeaten at Concord Sports Centre.

Photos from the day are over on our gallery page.

It was almost impossible to know where to look at Concord Sports Centre on Sunday afternoon as the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League 7-a-side competition roared back into life after a month’s break. It was a tremendous afternoon of football, and all the teams played their part in a brilliant spectacle in front of a good crowd. As usual, www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com Editor Margaret Gregory and sidekick Colin Muncie picked the bones out of the high-calibre reports from our teams.

The Remembrance Sunday match day began with a short poem and a minute’s silence in tribute to those brave men and women who lost their lives defending and protecting our freedoms.

The League fixtures were preceded by three County Cup ties, one of which saw Derek Dooley Orange bow out of the competition after a tough battle with Aston Swallownest Red.

Dooley’s Claire Cowlishaw was pitch side. “Our Orange team started their Cup campaign against Aston Red,” Claire reported. “This was a close game with some great defending by Clarke and some super saves by Nathan. The team had only 7 players so there was no let up for them and they were missing their coach & captain Nathan. The first-half was a good run by Josh, but it was saved. Then we saw some lovely passing between Richard to Josh and onto Jamie Lee, unfortunately he shot wide. There were still no goals at half-time so there was still hope that they could go on and win. Not long into the second-half, after a good shot from Jamie Lee, Aston had a corner and had a great shot which went past Nathan. The lads didn’t give up and kept trying to get a goal back, Josh had another run that went wide.” 

In the other ties there were wins for Barton Inclusive and Aston Swallownest Blue.

And so, to the League, and in the Premier Division, Club Doncaster Titans went down to Bradford City Amber. Bradford’s Paul Jubb told www.syacl.com, “This was a really close game, end-to-end some great defending plus a brilliant goalkeeping display from John Bigmore. We swapped it around a bit in the second-half with George going up and Mackenzie dropping back; we created a few more chances and eventually got the breakthrough via a penalty due to a sliding challenge and a handball. George calmly slotted the ball in the corner sending the keeper the wrong way for the lead. We held out for the last 2 minutes to win 1-0. Our star man was John Bigmore.” 

Titans (Whites) Martin Taylor was disappointed but delighted by his team’s display. “It was a brilliant game of football by both sides, end-to-end all the way,” Martin noted. “Nothing could separate both teams and the first half ended 0 – 0. The second half started in the same fashion, and it looked like it was going to end up a 0 – 0 draw but Bradford was awarded a penalty with 30 seconds to go which Bradford City (Amber) converted to make the score 0 – 1. Titans were unlucky to not have got the point, which they deserved.”

Sheffield FC Blue got off to a good start with a win over Aston. Sheffield’s Lee Higgins told the website, “Sheffield FC Blue opened with a closely fought game against Aston Swallownest. Sheffield FC opened the scoring but were quickly pulled back to 1-1. In the second-half Sheffield FC applied pressure and managed to get the winner.”

Game three saw Titan’s White lose in another close match with City Knights Black. “The game started fast and furious and end-to-end,” Titan’s coach Martin told us. “Both teams had equal amounts of opportunities to score, but City Knights broke away and scored making it 1 – 0. Then City Knights started to control the game, but on the break Titans (Whites) equalised by Aaron scoring with an assist by Joseph, and it ended 1 – 1 at half-time. The second-half started like the first-half finished. City Knights scored a second goal after a long-range shot crept in through a crowd of players. Titans kept their heads up and started looking for the equaliser, however, City Knights scored again on the break to make the final score 3 – 1.”

City Knights Sharon Lavender commented, “Well done guys in both your matches, great team work, you all played well against tough competition you showed determination and grit for your team and club. This resulted in winning both your matches.
Doncaster Titans White 1  City Knights Black 3
Sheffield Blue 1  City Knights Black 2
So proud of you all!

Sheffield FC Red shared the points after a thrilling draw with Bradford City Amber. “We played Bradford in our first match and secured a battling 3-3 draw,” Reds Peter Duxbury told the website. With a player short we struggled throughout the game; however, we ran ourselves into the ground with a goal from Archie and a brace from George.”

Bradford’s Paul Jubb was delighted by his side’s fighting spirit. “This was an exciting game, with Sheffield taking the lead 3 times but we equalised 3 times and nearly got a winning goal. Mentions for Henry, Jordan, James, Eddie and John too; George scoring 2 and Mackenzie getting the other one. Our star man was George Dubej.” 

“Everyone’s attitude was brilliant today and they showed they can recover from going behind,” Paul added. “Well done to everyone and thank you for your behaviour and attitude. You did yourselves proud. Our star man for the day was ‘keeper John Bigmore.” 

“Sheffield FC Blue’s 2^nd game was against reigning champions City Knights,” Lee Higgins reports. “It was another close match, but some sloppy defending allowed Knights to take the lead. We pulled one back before the break; tired legs led to Knights scoring the winner early in the 2^nd half and whilst we dug deep, we couldn’t find a second equaliser.”

The last Match on Pitch 1 took place under the lights. Sheffield FC Reds Peter Duxbury takes up the story, “we played Aston Swallownest where our passing game shone through, and we looked more organised in defence. George scored another brace with Jordan chipping in with a spectacular brace from distance. Despite having a player short our players showed character and worked hard.”

So, after two matchdays and four fixtures each, the top three sides are covered by a single point, with City Knights Black and Sheffield FC Red both on ten points, and Sheffield Blue just a point behind. Titans and Aston have one win each, with Bradford Amber still looking for that first win after losing their points due to an administrative error in registration.

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

 In the Championship, there were four matches on Pitch 3. In the first, Brunsmeer Awareness got their afternoon off to the best possible start with a win over Bradford City (Blue). Bradford coach, Danny told the website, “it was a really close game between the two teams with Bradford not putting their chances away. The only goal in the game came from a shot that the keeper saved from close range, but the ball came back off him and a lucky deflection took the ball into the back off the net, with Brunsmeer coming out of the game 1 – 0 winners.”

Next up, the impressive Barton Inclusive won an outstanding game of football with Derek Dooley Football Academy. Here’s Dooley coach Claire, “Reds started the day playing Barton. The game started at a fast pace with Dooley needing to defend, which Jack S was on top form today stopping the ball getting through. Then Stephen had a good run up front to Elliott who shot went wide. Dom was solid in defence and got the ball up to Aiden who won a corner, this was saved, and Barton broke up front but made a great save by Shaun. Elliott won a free kick; he had a shot that was saved. A corner from Jack across the goal, but no one to put it in. Barton went ahead just before half-time. The second-half saw Barton go up, but a double save by Shaun kept them out. He passed out to Jack on the wing who passed to Adam who passed back to Jack, and he ran up, but shot wide. Barton went up and scored making it 2-0 but the lads didn’t give up and kept on trying, with Aiden having a shot going wide. Shaun saved twice but it went in making it 3 – 0. Thank you to Barton who then allowed our 2 extra players on.”

“The team valiantly kept on pushing but couldn’t get the ball in the net.” 

It had been a tough week for Barton leading up to match day and it was all about the team showing togetherness and displaying the incredible team spirit they have at the football club.

Our first game was a tough cup match against Sheffield Blue who was top of the Premier League. We had a game plan with our formation that we hoped would frustrate such a good premier league team and disrupt them form playing their great football.

Right from the first whistle Barton was incredible. Everyone had good early touches on the ball, lead by our captain Ryan, who’s leadership from the back provided encouragement to his team.

Our goalkeeper Jay had the ball and played it to Barton’s Messi (Jamie) and Messi played a brilliant through ball to Seb who ran onto it and fired an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner. Seb’s movement and finishing has been world class and it was great to have him back in the team. The game restarts and Sheffield have some powerful long range efforts that was brilliantly saved by Jay. Jay was on a mission to keep a clean sheet and his important saves keeps Barton in front. Then a break away for Barton. A brilliant bit of skill and a perfect through ball from Bentinio (Ben) and our super striker Seb was there to put the ball in the net again.

I have been asking Bentinio recently to clear his thoughts and show us how much he loves football through his play. He was outstanding. His first touch and ability to find space in a tough midfield battle was exceptional. His passing and vision was outstanding. This is the best I have seen this young man play and it was great to see.

Halftime

At the start of the second half we knew Sheffield would have a good go at us and that is exactly what they did. Our solid defensive partnership, Shaun and Ryan stood tall, blocking shots and not letting anyone passed them. Barton had made a sub resting Bentinio and making his debut was Celtic fan, Andy. Andy has been at the club a short time but has fit straight in with a great team attitude. Andy involves himself in the game immediately and his movement and work rate cause Sheffield problems. He soon gets his reward. Great play from Tim our General in midfield, and Andy fires home with a powerful strike. Not a bad start to his Barton career. Shortly after this goal it got even better for Barton. Great play from Messi and there was Andy again ready to flick the ball passed the keeper.

The final whistle went and it was Barton through to the next round of the cup. I would like to thank the referee and Sheffield in what was a great game of football. We wish Sheffield well for the rest of their season.

To quote our Captain, Ryan “We played crazy good football”

Barton’s next game was a league game against an in form Derek Dooley side. Both teams started confidently with chances created at both ends, but then Barton’s Messi goes down injured with his knee causing concern to all. Thankfully, after a few minutes on the side he was ok to return to the game. Super striker Seb finds space and puts in a brilliant cross to Messi who side foots it passed the keeper. His goal showed he was fine after what initially looked like a bad knee injury. Messi’s work rate and skill to go passed players is second to none and Barton are so lucky to have him play for our club.

Halftime.

The second half begins with Derek Dooley working hard to level the score only for Shaun, Ryan and Jay to rise to the challenge. Barton had a different type of threat going forward now with giving Seb a well deserved rest and bringing on Dave Firmino who was just coming back from a bad leg injury and praying he would get through the half ok. Dave’s first touch was from a great through ball and he fires a hard and low shot only for Dooley keeper to make a brilliant save. But Dave Firmino didn’t have to wait long for his next chance. Great play from Andy and Dave unleashed a powerful shot from close range that flew into the net. More impressively, that powerful shot came from his injured leg and we knew how much that goal meant to him. There wasn’t long left but still enough time for Barton to score one more. Great play from our captain ‘Sergio Ryan’ and the ball fell to Messi who hit a powerful shot passed the keeper.

Thank you to the referee and to Derek Dooley. We wish you all the best for the rest of the season.

And as for Barton, I am so proud of the players. It was special to see them enjoying the game and watching them discover just how good they can be when everyone plays with togetherness as a team.

Well done to Ryan who won an award for his leadership and encouragement of his team mates and to Bentinio who was awarded for his skills and showing us his love of the game.

 Next up, Brunsmeer took their second win of the afternoon, beating Derek Dooley (Orange). “Our second game was against Brunsmeer, who were having a good afternoon,” Dooley coach Claire told Syacl.com. “It wasn’t a good start as Brunsmeer had a good shot and it hit the post and bounced off Nathan’s back into the goal, giving them the lead. The lads didn’t let their heads go down and kept trying; there was another from Josh, but it went wide. Richard passed up front to Gregg, who was fouled as he went to shoot. Unfortunately, the penalty went over the top, Brunsmeer then set off on another run up and got it past Nathan to give them a 2-goal lead. Once again, the lads didn’t give up and we saw some good defending and then Josh had a run and passed to Jamie Lee who passed back to Josh who scored taking it to 2 – 1. The boys passing between each other and showing some good defending.”

“Well done for their performance today and to keep trying, and the win will come. “In the final Championship match of the afternoon, the points went to Bradford City Blue with a win over Derek Dooley Football Academy. Bradford coach Danny described his team’s win. “Bradford came out, off the back of a defeat, and a tactical change from the management team saw Bradford take an early lead, with a kick in up field from Stephen, saw the ball reach Dale who fired home. The second goal came from a similar kick in, which saw Luke in front of the goal convert, despite the keeper getting a touch to it. The third goal came from a good counter attack from Luke and Ethan, Luke squared the ball to Ethan who hit the post, but luckily Luke was there to slot the ball home. The fourth goal came from Ethan who hit the ball with a sweet shot and scored. Although, Derek Dooley managed to score late on, Bradford won 4-1.” 

“Our Player of the day was Jed,” Danny added.  “Fantastic defending!”

Great credit must go to Derek Dooley Football Academy for offering to start this last match with just five players. “Our next game was against Bradford Blues,” Claire told the website. “This started with 5 against 5 whilst the rest of Bradford team arrived on pitch. Bradford started the quicker and got it past Shaun to take the lead. The team was back to 7-aside and saw lots of shots saved from the Bradford goalkeeper. There was some good passing between Nick and Jack and solid defending by Dom, Aiden and Adam. Bradford scored past Shaun to make it 2-0. We made a substitution with Dean coming on for Aiden. There was a great pass from Dom to Adam who passed on to Aiden with a shot saved again and another corner. Bradford broke again and Shaun saved, but couldn’t save the rebound so putting them 3-0 up. Dooley added another player on. The team were inspired by Jack’s run up and Elliott’s shot was saved, with Bradford breaking up front to make it 4-0. From kick-off Jack broke up front and passed to Elliott who scored to make it 4-1.”

 Claire was proud of her team, “the lads did well today with key players missing with Covid and injury,” she pointed out. “Hopefully they will be back to full strength for our next matches in December.”

After the last whistle, welcome League newcomers Barton Inclusive lead the way in the Championship with three wins from their three games so far. They head a resurgent Brunsmeer Awareness and Bradford City FC (Blue) by just three points, with the two Dooley Clubs a little further back.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Barton At	3	3	0	0	3	9
2	Brunsmeer Awareness Awarness	3	2	0	1	1	6
3	Bradford City FITC Disability Blues	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

In League One, there were five matches with Bradford City FC (Claret) unable to make the trip to Sheffield. In the first game, Sheffield FC (White) took the points with a victory over Club Doncaster Titans (Red).

 Sheffield’s Kevin Marsh summed up the game for www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. “The game started even with Sheffield FC carving out chances, but finding Titan’s goalkeeper in excellent form. Doncaster got the first goal of the game in the first-half. Sheffield continued to apply pressure and still found Titans keeper hard to beat but managed to grab 2 second-half goals from Lewis and Adam (both were their first goals for the adult team!). “

Titan’s coach Daniel Hall gave his perspective on the game. “The game started out great- end-to-end action in the first-half. A cross came in to the Sheffield box for Titans Jeffrey to slot one in to make it 1-0 to Titans. The second-half started the same with end-to-end action, but Sheffield equalised to make it 1-1. Then just before full-time a goal keeper error from Titans made it 2-1 to Sheffield FC White.”

Aston Swallownest took a win over City Knights Blue, then Wheatley Wanderers joined the action with a three-point haul after beating Club Doncaster Titans Red. Wheatley’s Chris Pow summed up the win. “We started very eagerly today,” Chris said. “Titans were organised and dangerous on the break. At half-time it was 0-0, but we had a lot more chances in the second half and scored a patient goal.”

Titans Red’s Daniel Hall agreed that it had been a close game. “With Wheatley being top of the table we had to try play better than we did the first time we met,” said Daniel. “It was end-to-end action in the first-half and we worked very well as a team. In the second-half Wheatley Wanderers got a goal which Titan’s keeper did save, but it was too powerful to hold on to. Titans pestered and pestered their defence, but could not break the deadlock and the game ended 1-0 to Wheatley Wanderers.”

City Knights took the points in their next game with a win over Sheffield FC (White) “The second game was another closely fought game with Sheffield FC taking the lead through Danny Black, after a swift passing move,” Sheffield’s Kevin Marsh told us. “Knights soon levelled with an excellent strike in the first-half. The second-half was tight with Knights scoring the eventual winner.”

Kevin is thrilled by his side’s upward trajectory. “This season represents excellent progress from Sheffield FC White after a few years of struggle,” he told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com

The match was marred by an injury to one of City Knights players just after he had scored the best goal of the afternoon. Our best wishes go out to both club and player.

City Knights Sharon Lavender commented, “Guys, your first Cup match of the competition, you should be proud!  That  game was one of your best this season, great team work. This resulted in us winning the match! Aston Blue 0  City Knights 3

The first league game of the day didn’t down too well, but the second match was better, except for one of our players getting injured, our team pulled together and won the game 2-1 against Sheffield White. So proud of you all!“

The latest news on the injured player, Warren, he had an X-ray and he has not broken his ankle but he has to use crutches and have physio. He has an appointment today. Many thanks to the staff, they were amazing!

The last match in League One saw the second victory of the afternoon for Wheatley Wanderers, beating Aston Swallownest. Chris Pow told Syacl.com that his team got off to a fast start, “our striker Asten scored after 18 seconds,” Chris reported, “and another of the players got on the scoresheet too. We played with more composure in this game, with Joshy scoring his first League goal. It was a good sporting game.”

It’s Chris’s Wanderers who’ll carry an eight-point lead into the December match day after yesterday’s two wins, giving them a super one hundred percent record after five games. Sheffield FC (White) are a deserved second, just ahead of Aston Swallownest and Titans Red. City Knights Blue have four points, leaving Bradford Claret with ground to make up when they hopefully get back into action.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Wheatley Wanderers SYACL	5	5	0	0	5	15
2	Sheffield FC White (Disability)	4	2	1	1	1	7
3	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	4	2	0	2	0	6
4	Club Doncaster Titans FC (Adult) Red	5	2	0	3	-1	6
5	City Knights Blue	4	1	1	2	-1	4
6	Bradford City FITC Disability Claret	4	0	0	4	-4	0

Thanks, as always to our brilliant referees, Sean, Gary and Mike, and to all our teams for their pictures and match reports.

It’s five-a-side Match Day 2 next Sunday, when our teams head off to Goals Doncaster. If you can’t watch the action in person, you can catch up on the latest news, reports and pictures on the Website, or by following us on Twitter.

The match day photos for Sunday 14th November are now on the gallery page.

We have so many photos that we have put some on the gallery page and the rest will feature in our match reports as soon as the reports are in.

The 7 v 7 County Cup Quarter Final matches to be played in December ‘21, or January ‘22, are as follows :

                1  –      City Knights Blue  v  Bradford City FITC Blues

                2 –      City Knights Black  v  Bradford City FITC Amber

                3 –        Barton Athletic v Club Doncaster Titans White

              4 –          Sheffield FC Red v Aston Swallownest Red

                The semi-finals to be played early next year will be between :

                                Winners of Tie 1 v Winners of Tie 2

                                  Winners of Tie 3 v Winners of Tie 4