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

All those lives that were lost in conflict and during Covid

SYACL remembers them

James Morgan’s [14] poem, Forever Nineteen (The Somme)

I crouch by your gravestone, and I can see,
You joined The Great War when you were only nineteen,
I hope you died well and I hope you died clean,
And not suffered for hours – slow and obscene.
The sorrow, the horrors, the glory, the pain,
The wounding and dying were not done in vain,
And for all you young soldiers, who died on that day,
You’re in our hearts forever, for the price that you paid.

Hornets buzzing but Titans head the Under-16’s table

The Goals venue in Sheffield saw a thrilling Matchday 2 for our South Yorkshire Ability Counts League Under 12’s and Under 16’s, watched by another fantastic crowd of carers and parents. There were nine fixtures in the Under 12’s competition, and five in the Under 16’s Division; and when all the dust had settled, three teams sat within a point of each other at the top of the Under 12’s; and Club Doncaster Titans had eked out some daylight between themselves and a ferocious chasing pack in the Under-16’s.

As always though, these simple statistics are underpinned by a couple of hours of fierce competition, so Website Editor Margaret Gregory and Colin Muncie picked out the best of the match reports from all our clubs for www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com.

In the Under 12’s division, the action started with Sheffield FC taking on Bradford City Claret, with the team from the world’s oldest Football club taking the points.

“The Under 12 Clarets were missing their star player Freddie and lost to Sheffield Reds 4-1,” Bradford’s Paul Jubb told us. “Alex scored his first ever goal for the team. They then lost to our own Wildcats 1-0; the last game of the day was a top of the table clash with the Blues, who came out winners on the day 2-3. The Clarets, though, are only one point behind the leaders.”

Sheffield coaches Chris Morris and Charlie Hicks summed up the win. “Bradford started strongly taking the lead until half time, but Sheffield FCD came back strongly with great team spirit and some individual skill from 4 goal hero Kyle Inkles, which included a 20-yd rocket shot.”

Hillsborough Hornets started the afternoon by winning a thrilling encounter against Bradford Wildcats. “It was a brilliant game from both sides,” Hornets Olivia, Zoe and Sally told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. “Hadley scored a brace and got his first 2 goals for the club in a League game and scored the first 2 goals for the Hornets U12 EVER!!! This was an amazing game and gave the Hornets some confidence, Bailey played excellent in defence and Jonathan enjoyed his very first League game, making excellent contributions to the game. Henry was super-fast, and Oliver was amazing in goal. Evan and Mickey had some great touches, and the first match was a vast improvement on their last League experience.”

Club Doncaster Titans got their afternoon off to a tough start against Bradford City Clarets, as Titans’ coach Steph Hall explained.  “This was a good game played between the two teams. The Titans played very well and battled hard against a particularly good Bradford Blue team. In the end the better team won.”

Paul Jubb added, “the Under 12’s Blue won their first game against Doncaster Titans, Patrick & Callum scoring 2  goals each.

Game four saw an all-Bradford clash between Clarets and the Wildcats, and Paul summed the day up for SYACL.com. “The Wildcats won all three of their games on the day and played really well, especially Skye who scored four goals in the final game against Club Doncaster Titans.”

Bradford Blues went down to Sheffield Reds before claiming an important win in their last game. “They then lost 2-3 to Sheffield Reds in a close game,” Paul Jubb reported. “ In their last game they won against our own Claret team 3-2, which put them joint top of the league with Sheffield Reds.”

Sheffield’s Chris Morris and Charlie Hicks agreed that it had been a tight battle. “A great early goal from Cameron, who curled in a lovely left footer, with Noah making it 2-0 to Sheffield,” they told us. “Bradford then pulled a goal back before half-time and then went onto valiantly equalise to level up the scores. We lost a couple of players to tiredness and injury in the second-half, but kept on trying with the winner coming from young Kyle just before the final whistle. A brilliant end-to-end and equally matched game against our Bradford friends.”

“Meanwhile, Hillsborough Hornets maintained their thrilling resurgence when they took on Club Doncaster Titans. Olivia, Zoe and Sally take up the story. “It was an excellent game again,” they told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com; Jonathan scored his first ever goal and Hadley added to the score sheet scoring his 3rd of the day. Doncaster scored a great goal and Oliver was super in the net. The Hornets took the overall win and it was amazing to see the smiles and teamwork from the players. This is a match they’ll remember for a while. The Hornets game has improved so much since their first League matches back in October, it was great to see the confidence and the players putting their training into practice.”

Titan’s Steph Hall agreed that it had been a wonderful game. “A fantastic game played by both teams as they played brilliantly and battled hard. It was an end-to-end game,” Steph noted. Hillsborough went two goals up, but we pulled one back with what will likely be the goal of the season! Jacob R shot from the right side of the halfway line, the ball flew through the air and dipped just under the crossbar into the goal! Our team continued to push for an equaliser, but unfortunately it didn’t come due, to a fantastic performance by Hillsborough’s goalkeeper.”

Next up for Titans was a tough fixture with Bradford Wildcats. “It was a brilliant end-to-end game played by both teams,” Steph, the Under-12’s coach told us. “Some wonderful goals scored by Jacob B, Jacob R and Zach got us into the lead; then a late comeback from Bradford Wildcats gave them the win.”

Hillsborough Hornets finished a memorable day going down narrowly to title-chasing Sheffield Reds, and Olivia, Zoe and Sally were pitch side for SYACL.com. “Hornets played a very good Sheffield FC side in their final match; Oliver made some really great saves and was able to stop even more shots from Sheffield FC going in the back of the net.”

“All the teams played with passion and enthusiasm and supported each other throughout the game,” the girls summarised. “A great day was had by all, and we can’t wait to come back and do it all again in December. #demhornets.

Sheffield’s coaches were delighted with the win. “A great solo goal from Noah made it 1-0 and continued attacking pressure resulted in another goal for Noah, with a first-time effort from a rebound to make the score 2-0.” Chris and Charlie told us. “A second half hat-trick for striker of the day Kyle made it 5-0 backed by a solid defensive display from Henry and Charlie.”

So, after two matchdays and six games each, it couldn’t be tighter at the top of the Under-12’s Division. Bradford Blues and Sheffield Red lead the way with thirteen points apiece, but Bradford Claret are right behind with twelve. Hornets two wins sees them close in on Club Doncaster Titans; and it can’t be long before Bradford City Wildcats get off the mark.

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

In the Under-sixteen’s League, the afternoon got off to the best possible start with a goal fest between Bradford City Amber and Hillsborough Hornets Black, with Hornets edging the win. Olivia, Zoe and Sally commented, “the Hornets started the first half strong with Glodi and Jacob scoring their first League goals for their team. Mackenzie made some amazing saves this half, but couldn’t stop them all. Bradford played well to bring it back level and then overtook the Hornets to make the score 3-2 to Bradford. Luke scored the equaliser with a great shot, Bradford fought hard to score another before half-time meaning the Hornets went into the break trailing by one goal 3-4. Nathan and Jamie again made a great wall in defence and prevented even more goals being scored by Bradford, Alice was great in midfield and made some great tackles.”

“After the break, the Hornets started strong but gave a penalty away which Bradford took well taking the score to 5-3, this is where the Hornets team dug deep. Zach played some great balls in and worked hard retrieving the ball, with great crosses from the corner positions. Jacob came on and went on to score a further three goals giving him a ‘Haul’ finishing the match 6-5 to the Hornets. What a game, the atmosphere was amazing, and all the players were understandably shattered after a very well-played game from both sides. Hornets Goal-Keeper Mackenzie saved fourteen shots in this game! 14!”

Bradford’s Paul Jubb said, “the Under 16’s first game was against Hillsborough Hornets team and they went into a 2-0 lead straight away, but we managed to pull a couple back. Johnathan scored his first hat-trick of his Under 16’s career and was asking for the match ball, Hillsborough were too big and strong in the end and went on to win the game easily.”

Hillsborough Hornets Yellow got off to a fast start against Sheffield FC and never looked back. “Both teams started strong and were playing for their shirts,” Olivia, Zoe and Sally told http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. “Zakir scored the first goal and Coley scored from a free kick taking the score to 2-0 to the Hornets. Both teams had some good shots, and the first-half was played well. Leah was again a machine in defence and Kaitlin was showing off her skills on the pitch. Sam was great in the net and was protected well by his team. In the second-half, Hornets again started well. Alex scored to make it 3-0, Lewis then scored the next three goals getting his first League hat-trick and dedicated his goals to his Nan who he sadly lost last week. At 6-0 Zakir shot and scored the seventh goal giving him a “Brace” in his first League match. Sheffield FC fought hard to keep the Hornets at bay, but Coley and Enrique sealed the game with two late goals. Max made some great tackles and had a couple of attempts on goal.”

From Sheffield’s coach Carl Richardson, there were words of praise for his brave keeper. “A special mention to our goalkeeper Alex who, despite the score line, played and tried brilliantly before having to come off with injury – a credit to his team.”

Club Doncaster Titans got their afternoon underway with a narrow win over Bradford Amber. “First we were just kicking anywhere, then we got control of game,” coach John Hibbert told us. “Danny Hall scored first and the second goal for Danny was assisted by Owen Robson. Then Levi Benson scored; then Owen got a rebound off the wall to score his first goal and they scored an own goal. Then after half-time their coach had a word with them, and they scored; then our lads’ heads went down and they got control of the game, but it ended 5-4 win to Titans.”

For Bradford, it was a tough loss. “The second game was against club Doncaster Titans and again our young team struggled against a stronger and older team,” reported Paul Jubb. “We went 4-1 down after 2 unfortunate own goals, including a rebound off the back board; which allowed us to bring an extra player on to pull it back to 4-3, but Doncaster just stepped up their game and won 5-4 in the end. The star of the day was Daniel who gave his all in both games, but we were proud of all the team on the day.”

The next fixture saw an all-Hornets derby between their Black and Yellow sides, and the Hornets’ girl reporting trio summed up the clash. “The first half started slowly from both sides,” Olivia, Zoe and Sally said, “it was the first time playing each other in a competition and nerves were high. Mackie made two excellent saves in the first half and both teams played well putting into practice their training skills and using the boards to their advantage. The match went into the half-time break at 0-0.”

“A few substitutions were made at half-time and Lewis was first on the score sheet followed by another great save by Mackenzie. The second goal came from Enrique meaning the Yellow’s led 2-0. Lewis scored a further goal giving him five goals scored over two games! Zakir fired a third goal into the net for the Yellow’s bringing his goal tally to three for the day. Hornets’ Black’s fought valiantly, and Luke came through to score a cracking goal just before the end of the game, meaning the Yellow’s won 3-1 in a very evenly matched and well fought game.”

“It’s not easy playing your team mates,” the girls told http://www.southyorkshireabilitycounts league.com, “but both the Yellow and Black teams played superbly throughout.”

The final game of the day saw Club Doncaster Titans take the three points against Sheffield FC. “Danny scored first, Owen scored then Levi scored,” John Hibbert reported. “Danny got an assist from Devon and scored his second in the match. Then Danny got his hat trick, Levi took a free kick and scored. And Sheffield FC got three back on the trot, but the game ended in a 6-3 win to Titans.”

Sheffield’s Carl Richardson was philosophical in defeat, “Doncaster took the lead with 2 goals by half-time despite great goalkeeping from Alex,” Carl told us. “Rudy scored a penalty to bring the score to 2-1, before Doncaster went on to score another 4 goals with a brilliant display. Sheffield didn’t give up with Kaiden scoring 2 great goals late on.”

So, with all five teams having played four matches each, it’s John Hibbert’s Titans who lead the way with that 100% record and twelve points. Hornets Yellow sit second, just three points adrift, with Hornets Black three points further behind on six points. Bradford Amber has that one win, with Sheffield FC Blue keen to get off the mark.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Club Doncaster Titans Ability Counts FC	4	4	0	0	4	12
2	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 Y	4	3	0	1	2	9
3	Hillsborough Hornets Disability FC U16 b	4	2	0	2	0	6
4	Bradford City FITC Disability U16 Amber	4	1	0	3	-2	3
5	Sheffield FC Youth U16 SFCD Blue	4	0	0	4	-4	0

So, after another thrilling afternoon and fourteen thrilling games, the Under-12’s and Under 16’s will be back in action on 5^th December. For safety reasons, however, the matches will take place at Sheffield Goals and not indoor at Pontefract. The action starts at 11.00a.m.

Next week, the focus switches to Concord Sports Centre, when our 7-a-side Leagues will be back in action. In the meantime, thanks to all our guest reporters; and for latest news and reports, visit the website at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com.

And finally, here come the photos: –

This week, www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com starts a series which takes a look at our most valued League sponsors.

Our first article features the Sheffield Trophy Centre, based in Proctor Place, Hillsborough. Since the League became independent some years ago, we have been grateful for the continued support and sponsorship by The Sheffield Trophy Centre.      

When we initially discussed our plans for the League, without hesitation Pat and Wayne Unwin kindly offered to provide us with annual medals & awards.  That allows us to keep costs as low as possible for our members, and is very much appreciated by us all. 

Although Pat is the owner of the shop, Wayne is the heartbeat of the shop, always arranging all the stuff for us.

SYACL’s Margaret Gregory started by asking owner Pat Unwin about Sheffield Trophy Centre’s relationship with the League.

“I am in the advantageous position of looking at SYACL and my own company and I must admit it is obvious that our respective hopes and desires – if handled correctly – could form a marriage made in heaven.”

Margaret: “Tell us a little about your company; what you do, where you are located, and a little bit of your history.”

Pat: “I purchased the business in March 1997. I soon increased the turnover and must admit we showed distinct signs of a healthy upturn in both turnover and profit. Most people especially sport minded people can relate to Sheffield Trophy Centre and we retail awards and medals as well as a fist class engraving service.

We have owned the business for 24 years now and are located in Hillsborough about 3/4 mile from SWFC ground at Leppings Lane; before this we were based in the Wicker Arches on Walker Street near the City Centre.

We put extreme emphasis on taking our responsibilities as a family business very seriously. Customer service is just one of the weapons we use, which does to a certain extent relate especially to people who still lock horns and begin sentences with ‘back in the day.’

Margaret: “Tell us how you came to be involved with the Ability Counts League?”

Pat: “I first became involved with SYACL through talks with someone who has become a lifelong friend, Mike Stylianou. We are always open to suggestions of how to increase our turnover and our keenness to get on a healthy footing in this everchanging world or ours.”

Margaret: “What form does your support and sponsorship take?”

Pat: “At present we provide medals and awards to the SYACL; those medals and awards are synonymous with our business.”

The SYACL would like to thank Pat and his team for their fantastic sponsorship of our League. 

Visit www.sheffieldtrophycentre.co.uk to review the huge range of awards, trophies, and medals on offer. The Trophy Centre can be contacted at 0114 2312959, or via the contact form available on the website.

Please note, the 5-a-side fixtures dates at Sheffield Goals Centre  &  7-a-side fixtures at Concord Sports Centre, have been switched for December ‘21 & April ‘22.

5-a-side fixtures will now be on the 12th December ‘21 and the 10th April ‘22.

7-a-side fixtures will now be on the 19th December ‘21 and the 17th April ‘22.

Concord Sports Centre was unavailable from 13.00, for those months on their original booking dates .

Outstanding afternoon for players, coaches, parents, and carers.

For the third consecutive week, the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League put on a fantastic afternoon of football for its players, coaches, parents and spectators. Last Sunday, it was the turn of our five-a-side teams to take centre stage at Goals Sheffield, with 8 Junior County Cup ties preceding 19 League fixtures across 4 Divisions, including the newly-formed League Two, write Margaret Gregory and Colin Muncie for http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com.

There was a warm welcome for the team from Barton Inclusive, and a return to competitive action for two teams from Social Eyes, with the teams from Rawmarsh engaged in two of the opening County Cup ties.

Social Eyes Green participated in a thrilling encounter with Spartans, whose coach, Darren Sharp, takes up the story. “The first match of the season for both teams were in the Junior County Cup, with Social Eyes taking a healthy lead at half-time. Spartans vastly improved in the second half, however, despite goals from Matt, Jacob and Paul and terrific saves in goal by Jake, Social Eyes clung on for the win.

“Spartans FC wish all the best to Socialeyes Green in the next round.”

In the adjoining pitch four, Social Eyes White suffered a baptism of fire despite a brave display against City Knights. The Knights were clinical in their finishing and eased into the next round.

“Sheffield FC’s new five-a-side Championship team made their debut against Bradford Diamonds in the County Cup.“ Sheffield’s Scott Gregory and fellow coaches Kevin, Liam and Morgan told us, “Bradford raced into a three goal lead in the first half given their expected early nerves. Two quick goals at the start of the second half from Adam Kitchener and Blake Williams scoring on their debuts pulled it back to 3-2. Adam Kitchener nearly made it 3-3 with a rocket of a shot that hit the crossbar. Bradford went on to score a fourth near the end to make the final score 4-2 to Bradford.”

Here’s Bradford’s Paul Jubb on the game. “In the County Cup game the Diamonds got off to a dream start going 3-0 up at half-time with goals from Harvinder, Hashim and Matty; but the Sheffield Purples scored straight from the kick off and then got another to make it 3-2 but Man of the Match Matty scored the fourth to win 4-2 and set up a next round clash against our own Premier Green team.”

A good win for Sheffield Black over Club Doncaster Titan Blue was watched by the coaching team from Sheffield FC. “Sheffield FC’s debut in the 5-a-side Premiership started life with a bang with a 3–1 victory against Club Doncaster Titans Blue in the Cup,” Scott and team told us. “There were two first-half goals from Kyle Johnson and another by Charley Docking in the second-half. Sheffield did concede in the last seconds, but with great play and a professional attitude throughout, managed to see the game out.”

Titans’ John Hibbert was philosophical about the result. “When we went into Game One, I thought we were ready – but when Sheffield Black scored their first goal, a few heads dropped; but don’t get me wrong, it was end-to-end stuff. We played really well, and we were in their half all the time. With Luke’s assist, Jamie scored his first goal, but we lost.”

“It was a good game, but we just couldn’t score again.”

Liam Taylor watched his Titans Yellow side progress at the expense of Derek Dooley Green. “It was an end-to-end game at the start of the game and Barney opened the scoring and they equalised straight from kick off; then Barney went close to make it 2-1, Barney made it a great hat trick and Titans were 3-1 up. Dooley made it 3-2 in the second-half, then 3-3. Titans made it 4-3 from Thomas and Barney made it 5-3, but Dooley made it 5-4 straight from kick off. We won 5-4 in the County Cup! What a game; I was really proud of everyone who played for Titans, and I am over the moon with their performance.”

Bradford Emeralds lost their Cup tie with Barton Inclusive. Paul Jubb told www.southyorkshireabilityleague.com, “the Emeralds Cup game was against Barton from two Leagues above us, and we  were easily beaten, despite us having 7 players on the pitch. Nick got our goal even though he was wearing two left boots!!; and Darren was outstanding in goal for us.”  


In the remaining tie, Derek Dooley Blue defeated Bradford Fuchsia in a cracking game of football. “The Fuchsias played Derek Dooley, who are a League below them in the County Cup and lost 7-6 in a thrilling game,” Paul Jubb told us. “Harriet scored 2 goals and Alyssa who was making her debut after moving up from League 2, scored an amazing 4 goals and was Woman of the Match – but it wasn’t enough as the Fuchsias crashed out of the Cup!”

Derek Dooley Blue’s Claire Cowlishaw told us; “The Blue team started their Cup campaign against Bradford Ladies Fuchsia team. This was an end-to-end game with both teams scoring and both goalkeepers saving goals. Believe scored a hat trick, Jordan scored and Reuben too, but that’s where the cup run ends.” 

So, to the Premier Division, and Derek Dooley White team had a few new team members, and these were their first competitive matches. “They had a good first game against Sheffield Black and narrowly lost 2-1,” Dooley’s Claire reported. “There were some good performances with solid defence by Jordan B and Craig in goal, who saved it being a bigger win for Sheffield.” 

Dooley White’s second game was against Bradford Green. “The team had a reshuffle,” Claire told us, “there were good performances from everyone who tried their best; well done to Luke who made his first appearance with his brother’s team. The second half saw Tom go in goal and Craig had a run out. They put on a good show against a good team.” 

Club Doncaster Titans went down to Sheffield Black. “The game was end-to-end; we had a much better game. Sheffield scored but the lads kept their heads and started to play our game, and half time was 1-0. We came out in the second half; we defended well and controlled the game. I thought that was our turning point; we still lost 1-0 but got our confidence back.” 

Titans Blue went down to City Knights Red in their next game. “We started to hold our own, but Liam beat himself up – he couldn’t get his shots on target. We were not using our team mates the way we should. We were making mistakes, losing our heads; then Cam was late in a bad tackle, Liam lost his cool, so Cam was sin-binned. Luke then got injured so Cam came back on but by then our focus had gone. The guys enjoyed it; so now we need to learn to be strong on the ball, make our passes crisper and we need to show care for our team mates. We need to learn to pass and move and make space for the killer pass.”

Sheffield FC Black’s Scott Gregory told us, “our last match was a tough game against a quick and exciting Derek Dooley White, but, after a tight contest, Sheffield finished off the day 2-1 victors with goals from Charley Docking and Kyle Johnson.”

Scott thought that it had been a wonderful day for all his clubs. “All our coaches are incredibly proud of our players and the professionalism they showed,” Scott said. “We want more of the same for the next fixtures.”

City Knights Red’s Sharon Lavender described her team’s afternoon. “Our first match was against Bradford City Green,” Sharon said. “It was a tight first half and Knights pressed forward early; midway through, Liam took the ball off a Bradford defender and slotted it into the corner of the net making us 1-0 up. In the second half Bradford soon equalised; their second goal came as a lucky shot, our keeper Paul looked like he had covered it – but it bounced in front of him then bounced over his hands as he dived into the net. Bradford got another goal after that. The final score was 3-1 to Bradford.”

“Our second match was against Titans Blue,” Sharon added, ”we re-organised the layout and came out strong in the first half. The opening goal came after 5 minutes, Eddie Williams squared it to Mark Boyes and Mark slammed it in the net. Not long after Titans pulled one back leaving it 1-1, but just before half time Mark pulled one back leaving it 2-1. With heads high and focused the players were on fire. The second half brought more delight for the Knights as they communicated and gelled well to achieve more goals, Kieron with determination to get the ball back and as he did, he blasted into Titans goal, with which we removed a player. The fourth goal was assisted by Eddie Williams, who crossed to Chris Brown who shot it through the Titans keeper’s legs. The final score was 5-1.”

“Well done guys so proud of you!” Sharon added. “Thank you, Titans Blue, for giving us a good game, and also thank you to all the support that was given on the day, from the referees and Managers, committee members to our own players relatives and players.”

 “Well done to all the teams on the day!”

So, after two League fixtures, Bradford City Green and Sheffield FC Red lead the way with maximum points. City Knights have three points from that one win, and both Derek Dooley White and Titans Blue will be looking to get off the mark next month.

PREMIER LEAGUE TABLE

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

Into the Championship, and Club Doncaster Titans played their first League match since forming in April of this year. They faced Barton Inclusive, as Martin Taylor told us, “this was end-to-end stuff and there was some brilliant football from both sides, but Barton took the lead 1 – 0. After the Titans Ladies lost the lead, they all pulled together and started working together, bonding as a team, and played brilliant football; the Ladies were unlucky not to equalise. A brilliant double save from Kaz Roberts kept it at 1-0 at this time. We were so proud of the Ladies and how they pulled together, but after a lucky break Barton make it 2 – 0 and that was the final score.”

“I was so proud of you ladies – how you played and pulled together,” was Martin’s summary.

Titans Ladies played their part in a history making match against Bradford City Ladies, the first all ladies match in the SYACL.

The game was end-to-end again, both teams played brilliant football and in the brilliant spirit of the game. It was going to be hard for someone to score because both teams were playing brilliant football, with both keepers in great form, but Bradford scored a well taken goal. After conceding the goal the Titans Ladies knuckled down and put the pressure on the Bradford Ladies, and but for some brilliant saves by Gemma in the Bradford goal the Titans would have equalised. The Titan’s ladies worked hard to get the equaliser which was scored by Zena Romain making it 1 – 1. After this the Titans Ladies were buzzing and playing brilliant football. It looked like the first all Ladies match was going to end in a draw but the Bradford Ladies just managed to score again with two minutes to go to make it 2 – 1, which was the final score.”

Here’s Martin’s final word on the day, “I was so proud to be the stand in coach today for the Titans Ladies team today whilst your normal coach Steph Hall was on holiday.”

Paul Jubb gave us the Bradford viewpoint. “The last game saw the first ever all-women’s clash in the South Yorkshire League against Club Doncaster Titans Women’s team. In another tight game the Fuchsias came out winners with another two goals from Anna to win 2 – 1 and go joint top of the Championship.“

Bradford Fuchsia came out worthy winners in another brilliant game with Bradford Diamonds. “Their last game was the much anticipated and talked about game, since the fixture came out a month ago, Ladies versus Men,“ said Paul. “It didn’t disappoint – the Diamonds men’s team took the lead twice but it was the Fuchsia Ladies who came out on top 3-2; after being down twice 1-0 & 2-1. They came back to win 3-2 with all the goals coming from hat trick hero Anna.”

Sheffield Purple began life in the Championship with a repeat fixture against Bradford City Diamonds after their earlier Cup confrontation. Bradford won 3-1 as Scott and his coaching team of Kev, Liam and Morgan explained. “It was a close game with chances at both ends, but Bradford were more clinical with their finishing. Adam Kitchener scoring the only goal for Sheffield.”

Paul Jubb gave us Bradford’s reaction. “Diamonds again had to play Sheffield Purple in their 1st League game, and it went pretty much the same way; this time the Man of the Match was hat-trick hero Hashim.”

In the last match Sheffield Purple played another team new to the League in Barton Inclusive. “It was another close game with Barton going into a one goal lead; then just before half time Steven scored to equalise on his debut for Sheffield,” Scott Gregory reports. “In the second half both teams went for the win and Barton managed to get a second goal. Just before the end, Adam Kitchener let fly with a shot that hit the upright which would have made the score 2-2, and would have been a fairer result.”

Scott was delighted. “What a heroic effort by all our players, most of them had never played a competitive game before these fixtures,” he said. “We’re really proud of all the players and they will have learnt a lot from their first experience of competitive football.”

Two games into the new season then, and the impressive Barton Inclusive and Bradford Fuchsia lead the way with two wins each. Bradford Diamonds are third, and both Titans Ladies and Sheffield Purple can consider themselves really unfortunate not to take anything from the day.

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

In League One, Spartan’s coach Darren Sharp described his club’s two League games, starting with another excellent game with Rawmarsh St Joseph’s Social Eyes which followed their earlier Cup thriller. “The following match between the teams was the first game of the season, which again proved to be a tight affair throughout, with Social Eyes Green grabbing two late goals to seal the win,” Darren recounted.

“Spartans were full of confidence for their last match of the day against Dooley Blue,” Darren added. “Jake played outfield scoring two sensational goals, but despite heroic defending by Dom and Sam and great saves in goal by Oliver, Dooley Blue were the better team and deservedly secured a comfortable win.”

Darren was pleased with his players and the afternoon as a whole. “Spartans FC enjoyed the start of the new season,” he added, “both on the pitch and the time spent during matches socialising together in the bar area between matches.“

Dooley Blue’s Claire takes up her side’s start to the League One campaign. “Now for League duties in the first game against Aston,” Claire told us. “The team took on board the words from Nathan their coach and played some lovely football against a physical side but went 3-0 up. Unfortunately, Aston goalkeeper received an injury and had to go off, so we took a player off to even it out. Our players then went on to two touch football and there was some lovely passing between Jordan and Rueben. There were some good saves from Ryan, but we went on to win the game.”

“The second game against the Spartans saw Believe scoring with his first touch.” Spartans then equalised; there was some solid defending by Cody and great goalkeeping from Ryan; we went on to win against the seven players of Spartans.”

Elsewhere, Rawmarsh St. Joseph’s Social Eyes Green added to that fine win over Spartans with another hard-fought win over James Scally’s Aston Swallownest, playing their first match day in the 5-a-side League.

As a result, Social Eyes share top spot in the table with Derek Dooley Blue, both with 100% records. Doncaster Deaf Trust will join the competition soon, and Aston Swallownest and Spartans will be hoping to build on their strong displays by getting some points on the board next month.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Derek Dooley Football Academy Blue	2	2	0	0	2	6
2	Rawmarsh St Joseph’s J.F.C. Social Eyes	2	2	0	0	2	6
3	Doncaster Deaf Trust FC White	0	0	0	0	0	0
4	Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Tea	2	0	0	2	-2	0
5	Spartans FC	2	0	0	2	-2	0

Into League Two, and a super day for Club Doncaster Titans Yellow as Liam Taylor told www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. “We won our first match against Derek Dooley Green,” Liam told us. “Derek Dooley opened the scoring 1-0 and from a Titans kick off Derek Dooley scored to make 2-0. Barney scored to make it 2-1 at half time.” “In the second half Derek Dooley scored to make it 3-1, Paul scored to make it 3-2 and again to make it 3-3. Christian scored to make it 4-3 to the Titans for the first time in the game; Derek Dooley levelled to make it 4-4. Barney scored to make 5-4, Titans made it 6-4 and although Derek Dooley made it 6-5 from a free kick, we won 6-5 in another end-to-end game.”

“Titans edged it 6-5; what an impressive performance, and again I am really happy with each and every one of them, “ Liam told us.

Titans then again came out on top against Bradford City (Emeralds), as Liam describes. “Matt B made 1-0, Barney made it 2-0. After Bradford made 2-1, Barney made 3-1, Christian made it 4-1. Bradford got the score back to 4-3 and we won the game.”

“What a great performance – I am really happy” Liam summed up. “Meanwhile, Bradford Emeralds were on the receiving end of a defeat to City Knights White.”

We had all eight of our players on and the City Knights Whites annihilated us,” Paul Jubb told the website.

“Luckily, we still had one game left and a much more even game against Doncaster Titans Yellows,“ Paul added. “Jake even scored a couple of rare goals for him! We lost 4-3 but it was a far more enjoyable experience than the game before.“

Derek Dooley Green played their first League game with Club Doncaster Titans Yellow. Here’s Claire Cowlishaw. “Now to League action against Doncaster again. This was quite even, and Titans came out on top, with a good performance by all our players trying their best.” 

“Then it was Rawmarsh to play,” Claire went on, “and a solid consistent performance by all the team saw them take another win. It was a tough first day for Social Eyes White, but there was some joy for Stuart late in the game as he scored a penalty to notch his side’s first ever goal.” 

So, after five matches in League Two, two wins each for City Knights White and Doncaster Titans Yellow sees the clubs sharing the early lead in the table. Derek Dooley Green have three points, with Bradford Emeralds and Social Eyes White ready to do battle again next month.

LEAGUE TWO TABLE

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

So, the South Yorkshire Ability Counts League takes a couple of weeks off before the Junior teams are back in action at Goals Sheffield next month.

Visit www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com for latest news, views, reports and pictures, and if you have an article you’d like to share with the League, visit the website and use the contact form.

You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Here come the photos.

After the fantastic start to the season that the newly-formed Junior Leagues provided at Goals Doncaster two Sundays ago, this Sunday saw the open-age 7-a side teams return to action at Concord Sports Centre. Once again, the weather was kind; as in Doncaster, families, carers, and supporters were able to support their teams for the first time since March 2020. The passion, energy, commitment and skill of all the players was plain to see as the three 7-a-side Divisions got off to a fast start, write Margaret Gregory and Colin Muncie for www. southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com. with thanks to Howard Toll from Bradford for his excellent pictures.

The afternoon included five County Cup first round ties.

Bradford DFC Amber played Brunsmeer from the League below them in the County Cup game in a very tight game. Bradford Manager, Paul Jubb told us, “after missing a few chances in the first half, Bradford eventually got the winner in the second half thanks to a great goal from man of the match Rhys.

“Sheffield FC White (League One) lost 1-0 to Aston Swallownest Blue in the County Cup in a very close contested game,” reports Sheffield’s Scott Gregory. “It was an unfortunate error by one of our players that separated the teams in the end.”

Derek Dooley Red team started their County Cup campaign against Premiership side Sheffield FC Red; Dooley’s Claire Cowlishaw told SYACL.com. “It was a short run, and not much fun for the lads.”

Sheffield FC Red’s Scott Gregory was delighted, however, “SFC Red (Premier) played sensational football to progress in the Cup. We got off to a flying start and controlled the game with pace.”

Wheatley Wanderers exited the County Cup at the first hurdle, but only after a brave display against City Knights Black. “We came up against a top team today and did not disgrace ourselves,” admitted Wheatley’s Chris Pow. “We learned a lot from this game, and Justin did particularly well in goal.”

In the Premier League, Bradford City Amber found the going a little tougher in their first Premier League match against Sheffield Reds, Paul Jubb told us. “The Ambers have just moved up to the Premier League and had a couple of players missing, so found it hard against a very good Sheffield Reds team who won easily on the day. Our Man of the Match was Henry who defended well and never gave up.”

Reds Scott Gregory was again a happy man after the game. “We started the League game with Bradford with confidence and played with freedom with positive forward play. Clinical finishing with a solid defensive performance, was Scott’s assessment.”

In their final fixture of the day, Bradford City Amber came up against fellow-promoted side Aston Swallownest. “Both these teams got promoted from the Championship last season, Ambers going up as Champions after a close play off game,” Paul reminded us. “ Aston Swallownest took a three goal lead in the first half and were by far the better team; the Ambers did pull a couple of goals back in the second half; both from Man of the Match Jordan – but the game was already won.”

“Sheffield FC Red’s League game with City Knights was a cagey affair and with both sides cancelling each other out. Defences came out on top with chances at a premium,” Scott told us.

“Meanwhile, Sheffield FC Blue played Club Doncaster Titans twice and came out on top in both games 3-0 and 2-1. Sheffield FC controlled the first game from the whistle, going 2-0 in the first half with goals from Aaron Ambler-Bennett and Ben Wittenberg,” Scott Gregory reports. “The second half quickly saw Sheffield FC go 3-0 up with another goal from Aaron. The game was played in good spirits as always, competitive but fair.”

“The second game was a much tighter affair with Sheffield FC having one man less for the whole game.” Scott went on, “Doncaster took a deserved lead in the first half for SFC to peg them back with a breakaway goal near half time from Aaron Ambler-Bennett. The second half was also tight, but SFC pushed hard for the 3 points and were rewarded with a crackerjack of a goal from Ben Wittenberg in the last moments of the game to win 2-1. Again, game played in good spirits across both teams.”

City Knights Black played their first League fixture of the new season against Aston Swallownest Juniors Disability Red. Here’s how City Knight’s Sharon Lavender saw the game. “It was a good match, our players started well and finished great; they communicated well and produced a great match. Aston Swallownest played really well considering it was one of their first matches in this League, they gave us a good game. We started off well with Asa smashing one in to make it 1-0, well done Asa Wilson, great goal!! Not long after Ant took the ball from one end of the pitch with focus and determination and ended up smashing it in the net at the other end, well done Ant West, great goal!! Well done lads; some great defending and attacking, and Michael Moxam you did some great saves.”

“Our second game was against Sheffield FC Red,” Sharon told us. “The players pulled together and supported each other, there was some great defending and Michael Moxam made some great saves; there were some long runs, and some great effort was put in. Steven Gould supported well and did some great runs down the wing. Asa Wilson, Ant West, Chris Senior did well getting the ball up front going for goal, having so many chances their keeper did some great saves. Nice defending by Gavin Foster and Daniel Purdy, Michael Moxam kept us in the game. You all should be proud guys you played really well. We are proud of you. Thank you, Sheffield FC, for giving a great match, which finished 0-0.”

So, after two games, the early pace setters are Sheffield Disability FC Blue with a one hundred percent record. City Knights Red and Sheffield FC Red [Disability] share second place on 4 points, Aston Swallownest sit in fourth, above Bradford City Amber and Club Doncaster Titans, both of whom will be looking to get off the mark next month.

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

In the Championship, Bradford were represented by their Blues, and they got off to the best possible start against Derek Dooley Orange, as Manager Mark McLaren explains. “The Blues ran out deserved winners against Derek Dooley Orange with two great counter attacking goals from Luke and Dale; although we had Man of the Match Bradley to thank for a brilliant save at 1-0.”

Here’s Dooley’s perspective on the game, from Claire Cowlishaw, “Derek Dooley Orange started their game against Bradford well with a lot of pressure put on the goal keepers, some good shots and saves, Brad F had 2 good shots saved but Bradford broke, and they got a corner and scored. They battled hard in the second half, but could not get past the Bradford Goalie who kept them in the game. So, they lost the first game, but they weren’t down hearted and rallying words from Coach Nathan helped them to prepare for the second game against Barton.”

Meanwhile, in their next tight game the Bradford City Blues lost to Derek Dooley FA. Mark McLaren told us, “we missed 3 or 4 good chances to have equalised or even gone on to win the game. Luke was the Man of the Match. Our star man for the day was goalkeeper Bradley making some amazing saves to keep his team in the games.”

Manager Claire Cowlishaw set the scene ahead of the new season for Derek Dooley FA and Derek Dooley Orange.” This season the teams have had a reshuffle and so are learning to become a new team with new team mates, though they are good friends on and off the pitch.”

Claire then summarised the game with Bradford Blue. “Derek Dooley FA’s first game in the League was against Bradford City Blue,” Claire told us, “and was a good even match of football. Both goalkeepers played well to save the shots with the Bradford goalie having bit more work to do saving good shots from Aiden and Elliott. Then there was a good pass by Adam up front to Jack and he managed to beat the goalkeeper, breaking the deadlock.”

Derek Dooley Orange then took on League newcomers Barton Inclusive. “The game against new team Barton was more even and some good football, passing and talking between the team. We were without our main man up front Brad F, who sprained his ankle in the first game. Nathan F did some good saves, and we went up front and Jamie Lee scored. There was a good shot from Josh saved. Barton had a man injured who had to come off for treatment, so we took a man off to equal it up as they had no subs. Barton equalised with a lucky shot between Nathan’s legs. Both teams back to 7 players and Barton scored again. Unfortunately, we lost both our games, but not downhearted as we all had great fun.”

You can find full reports on Barton’s 7-a-side fixtures elsewhere at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com.

After the first week of fixtures, then, and with Doncaster Deaf Trust FC due to re-join the League on Matchday Two, it’s the new kids on the block, Barton Inclusive, who are making the early running with those two wins sealing an impressive start to life in the SYACL.

Derek Dooley FA and Bradford City Blue are already on their heels, and Brunsmeer will be keen to get off the mark next month at Concord.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	GD	PTS
1	Barton Inclusive Football Club Barton at	2	2	0	0	2	6
2	Derek Dooley Football Academy Sheffield	1	1	0	0	1	3
3	Bradford City FITC Disability Blues	2	1	0	1	0	3
4	Doncaster Deaf Trust FC Black	0	0	0	0	0	0
5	Brunsmeer Awareness	1	0	0	1	-1	0
6	Derek Dooley Football Academy Orange	2	0	0	2	-2	0

And so, to League One, and Bradford Clarets were soon in action against Aston Swallownest, “ who took a goal lead early on,” Manager Paul Jubb explained. “Ben pulled one back in a very close game, but the Clarets forgot the golden rule “play to the whistle” and lost out to a late winner from Aston Swallownest. Stephen was amazing in goal and deserved his Man of the Match accolade.”

Meanwhile, Wheatley Wanderers got their league campaign under way with a win over Club Doncaster Titans Red. “We came out with all guns blazing for this match,” Wheatley’s Chris Pow told Syacl.com. “Paul scored his first League goal and Sean got a brace. A good result against a spirited, good natured side.”

City Knights Blue kicked off their season against Sheffield FC White. Here’s Knight’s Sharon Lavender, “first of all I would like to say well done to Connor Nicholls, Ewan Hadfield and Sam Leary for their debut match, and welcome to your new club. Sam shone on his first match by smashing a goal in – well done Sam Leary! It was not long into the game, but not long after that Sheffield FC got one past us. It was a very tight game. Our defence tightened up and didn’t concede any more goals. Well done to Adam Wyatt for saving some great goals and Adrian Bingham for supporting in defence. There was some great runs by Kyle Hancock, Jordan Bratby and Connor Nicholls. Well done all, you played a great game. Proud of you! Thank you to Sheffield FC for giving us a good match.” The match finished level at 1-1.

Bradford Clarets took on Sheffield Whites in their next game. Paul Jubb from Bradford reports, “we were unlucky to lose against Sheffield Whites, who played some great football. A few missed chances and lapses in the defence cost us the game. Ian was Man of the Match and outstanding at the back making a number of last-ditch challenges.”

Sheffield FC White’s Scott Gregory gave Syacl.com his perspective. “Our League game with Bradford Clarets was one way traffic in the first half, with Clarets’ keeper keeping them in the game to keep the score level at half-time. The pressure finally paid off in the second half with goals from Matt Lyne and a second goal of the day for Danny Black to seal the win.”

City Knights Blue closed out their day with a narrow, thrilling defeat to Club Doncaster Titans Red.
“Straight from the start our guys were on it,” Sharon reported. ”Kyle with assistance from Jordan Bratby smashed a goal in, well done Kyle Hancock! Not long after that, Titans got a goal. Connor Nicholls was doing well in midfield getting the ball down to Jordan to pass to Kyle and he ended up smashing another goal in, well done Kyle Hancock! Unfortunately seconds before the whistle, Titans got a goal.”

Well, done Sam Leary, Connor Nicholls, Ewan Hadfield with it being your first match with us, you played well. Great support too from Warren Foster. Players you all should be proud of yourself because you tried your best, proud of you!

“Thank you to the referees and all that supported on the day.”

Final word – deservedly – goes to table-toppers Wheatley Wanderers and their Manager Chris Pow after their win over Aston Swallownest. “It was another great performance from new players Sean and Asten, and Josh played really well in goal. It capped off a great day.”

“It felt good to be back playing football.” 

Well said, Chris.

So, after one week it’s Wheatley Wanderers who head the table with maximum points from their two wins. Sheffield FC White are just behind on four points, Aston Swallownest on three alongside Doncaster Titans Red. City Knights Blue have that single point, with Bradford City Claret on nil points.

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

Attention now turns to the first round of 5-a-side fixtures, kicking off this coming weekend at Sheffield Goals Centre.

For latest news and reports, follow us here at http://www.southyorkshireabilitycountsleague.com or via our Twitter and Instagram Accounts.

Remember, if you have any articles or features, you’d like to share with the League, please use the contact form on our website.

Thanks for all the photos, I decided to put them all at the end so as not to break the narrative?

It’s your website readers and it has been suggested that instead of all the reports being put on the blog page they should be put on the respective teams page. What do you think?

Photos better at the end or interspaced with the narrative?

Have you sent us any photos taken on the day?

We would like to invite you/your team to join us on the 28^th October 2021, at the New York Stadium, to watch the live draw for the Women’s EURO’ 22 on the BBC.

Rotherham is one of 9 host cities for the Women’s EURO ’22 tournament, and we would like you to come watch it with us and celebrate the teams that will make Rotherham their home for their group games.

The event will run from 4pm – 7.30pm, with talks from local football legends, a football quiz, information on how to get involved whether that be playing football, refereeing or maybe volunteering at the tournament itself, plus there will be some light refreshments with the bar open to purchase drinks.

For your FREE TICKET please book though Eventbrite using this link

https://scanmail.trustwave.com/?c=13415&d=s7be4c8rT8mQTiZ-ARfqqQD-smMVx-RI-0RXaHUQfQ&u=https%3a%2f%2fwww%2eeventbrite%2eco%2euk%2fe%2f28th-october-womens-euro-live-draw-new-york-stadium-rotherham-tickets-173586360477%3futm-campaign%3dsocial%252Cemail%26utm-content%3dattendeeshare%26utm-medium%3ddiscovery%26utm-source%3dstrongmail%26utm-term%3dcheckoutwidget

We can’t wait to see you.

Match day had arrived. Barton Athletics first game in the Sheffield League and I don’t know who was more excited, me or the players. We were trying a new formation and I was looking forward to the lads taking on this new challenge, writes Manager Richard Day.

The game kicked off against Brunsmeer Awareness and Brunsmeer started off the better team. There were a few nerves from the Barton lads and an early injury for our captain Bentinio who soldiered on. With early pressure from Brunsmeer, there was a shot deflected and brilliantly saved by our stand in keeper Zak (His first of many world class saves) Barton did produce a good chance in the first half with play between Jamie, Ben, Dave and Seb creating an opportunity for Dave which was saved by their keeper. Half time 0-0

Barton started the second half a different team, you could see they had found their confidence. The guys had found their flow and started to cause Brunsmeer problems with Barton’s own Messi – Jamie in midfield. Jamie was working so hard at winning the ball back and starting our attacks.

Then the breakthrough, 1-0 from Dave. Dave was superb holding the ball up in both games and struggling through a knee injury; turned his defender and powered it passed the keeper. Brunsmeer worked hard to get back into the game. Shaun and Ryan at the back were defending brilliantly along with another great save from Zak.

Another great goal comes this time from Seb who had found space and drilled a powerful shot into the bottom corner. It was a great reward for Seb who has been incredible with his coaching role with the Barton Inclusive Wildcats.

Final whistle 2-0 Barton.

A brilliant game played by two very honest teams, I thought Brunsmeer was superb and wish them well for their season. We will look forward to another great game when we play them again.

Our next game was against Derek Dooley FC and a bit like the first game, Barton were trying to find their feet.  We found ourselves 1-0 down early on, which came from a good strike from eight yards out. After their goal, Derek Dooley FC kept their pressure on with plenty of corners and shots. It was only thanks to our brave defending and saves that we kept the score at only 1-0. Then on the break, the ball falls to Seb who is a long way out and he hits an unstoppable shot that flies into the net. 1-1

Upfront, our striker Dave succumbed to his knee injury. The game was stopped and he was helped off the pitch. Hopefully with rest, he will be ok. Because two of our players, Jay and Tim couldn’t make the game through other commitments, we were without subs and had to continue with a player less. Claire, the manager of Derek Dooley FC seeing our predicament showed incredible sportsmanship and took a player off to level the sides. Derek Dooley FC are very lucky to have a coach setting all the right standards for their players.

Another great show of team work sets up our man Seb who fires in a skilled shot from a tight angle. 2-1

Barton was unlucky not to make it 3-1 and with another class save from Zak, could have been 2-2. Barton finished strong to see in the win.

I am so proud of the players who gave everything for their team and their coach. Their behaviour on and off the pitch did everyone at Barton Inclusive proud.

A special thanks to club chairperson, Sophie Bartup, who made our first league game possible. To Zak in goal who was world class. To the captain for the day, Bentinio. To both teams we played and to Seb, the Man of the Match, for his brilliant goals and movement.