SFC Ladies 08-09

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division
Sunday, 29/03/09

Sheffield United Community Ladies  2    Sheffield FC Ladies 2

Sheffield Ladies pulled back a two goal deficit in a spirited, if very late, second half comeback when they visited Sheffield United Community Ladies at a sunny but windy Phoenix Sports Ground this afternoon, writes John Shepherd.

Keen to avenge their defeat at the BFS earlier in the season, the hosts were straight out of the blocks and stunned Club with a goal in the first minute, two ex-Clubbies combining to do the damage. A ball played through to the edge of the area found Rachel Miriam, whose shot was half saved by stand-in Sheffield ‘keeper Bex Evans but diverted into the path of the inrushing Gemma Evans, who made no mistake in putting the chance away with a powerful shot into the roof of the net. Visibly rocked, the visitors struggled to regain their composure for a few minutes before creating their own opening chance, Clare Holmes being played through for a one-on-one with the host ‘keeper, only for the United stopper to save the attempt. United kept probing away, causing some confusion in the visitors’ defence without being presented with any clear cut chances, and whilst surviving another opportunity for Club to level at the other end when Clare Holmes nodded on to Lisa Giampalma, whose attempt at goal was again saved. As the mid-way point of the half approached, Club put pressure on the United goal from two corners and a throw-in, but to no avail, then saw the ball transferred to the other end of the pitch for another goal to the hosts. A throw-in found Annie Ward unmarked on the edge of the six-yard box, and her drive into the net was unstoppable. Again stunned, it was over ten minutes before the visitors threatened to get back into the game; a Nell Taylor shot from outside the box was deflected over and, from the resultant corner, Clare Holmes headed a good chance over the bar. As half time approached it was almost game over when a cross from the United right cleared Bex Evans at the near post, but hit the outside of the woodwork and bounced out of play. Club’s final sortie of the half saw another corner come to nought.

The visitors came out for the second half in determined mood, and Nell Taylor’s shot went up and over a crowd of players, and the crossbar, within the first couple of minutes. Club were now in control of the game, but all the effort was bringing no reward. United raids were sporadic and ineffective, their only threat in this period coming from a free kick on the left that was put out for a corner which then provided a chance that was blazed over. Just after the hour mark, Club had a golden opportunity to pull a goal back when Marie Widerman carried the ball into the area for Lisa Giampalma to play back from the byline into the path of Lynne Grainger, whose shot from 12 yards drifted just the wrong side of a post. Within minutes a cross to the edge of the area found Lisa Baily, who blazed over. As the final 15 minutes approached, the visitors finally saw some reward for their efforts and domination when a Michelle Fletcher free kick out on the right found the leaping Steph SPENCE on the edge of the area, her powerful header giving the ‘keeper no chance. With Club pressing for the equaliser but time seemingly about to run out, the referee indicated five minutes of added time thanks to a couple of injury stoppages and a lot of time wasting which forced the visitors’ bench to provide their own ball during this period to replace all those ‘lost’ by the hosts. Into the final minute a great ball was played through by Lisa Giampalma to Clare HOLMES, and the striker completed her player-of-the-match performance by forcing an initial save out of the United ‘keeper then following up to nod the parried effort into the net for a nail-biting draw.

It had truly been a game of two halves, with Club’s determined second half comeback earning them a well deserved share of the points. Indeed, but for that early goal against them, they will feel that it was a game they should have won. Next week brings another tough encounter against York City LFC, who will be looking to overturn their recent, and underserved, defeat at the BFS.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Bex Evans, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Lynne Grainger, Helen Wakefield, Nell Taylor, Marie Widerman, Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey, Clare Holmes

Subs:  Chloe Suttonn (for Wakefield), Nicola Cox (for Bailey), Rachel Charles (for Widerman)

Goal scorer:  Steph Spence, Clare Holmes

Player Of The Match: Clare Holmes

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division
Sunday, 15/03/09

Guiseley Ladies  3    Sheffield FC Ladies 1

Sheffield suffered only their second league defeat of the season this afternoon despite having by far the majority of possession and chances against a fired-up and resilient Guiseley outfit looking to revenge the recent 4-1 defeat dished out to them at the Bright Finance Stadium, writes John Shepherd.

Sheffield put the hosts under pressure from the outset without converting their dominance into goals, then found themselves behind from Guiseley’s first chance after just over 10 minutes. Possession was lost halfway inside the Sheffield half and the ball was fed down the left wing from where a cross to the far edge of the goal area evaded both ‘keeper and defender to leave a golden chance for Clare Jenkins to convert from close range. Sheffield continued to dominate the game without turning their chances into goals, the nearest efforts being headers glanced wide by Steph Spence from a Rachel Charles corner and Clare Holmes after a great left-wing cross by Lynne Grainger.

Sheffield continued to dominate the opening exchanges of the second half, and had an excellent chance to draw level when Lisa Giampalma was fed a great ball on the edge of the area, took it round the ‘keeper, then fired into the side netting from a narrow angle. However this disappointment was soon forgotten when, as the hour mark approached, a left wing cross into the area was met by Lisa BAILEY who gave the seemingly unbeatable Joanne Farquhar no chance of saving her powerful strike into the roof of the net. Soon after, Clare Holmes found herself one-on-one with the host ‘keeper only to see her shot blocked and the rebound put over the bar from the edge of the area by Lisa Giampalma. Having replaced Rachel Charles, Marie Widerman saw Joanne Farquhar off her line and tried an audacious lob from 25 yards which the in-form ‘keeper just managed to reach back and tip over. All Sheffield’s good work was then undone when the ball was given away cheaply on the halfway line before it was played to the edge of the area where a mix-up between defender and ‘keeper left Rachel Dainty with an open goal to restore Guiseley’s lead just after the 70 minutes mark. Within five minutes that lead was increased when a long ball into the area evaded the entire Sheffield defence to present the hosts with another easy chance. The visitors tried to get back into the game with renewed urgency, and Clare Holmes was played through on the left of the area but came off second best again in another one-on-one with the ‘keeper. A great cross from the right by Lisa Giamplame was then met with a diving header by substitute Nicola Cox at the near post only for her effort to go just the wrong side of the post. A final effort over the bar from the edge of the area by Lisa Bailey represented Sheffield’s last chance of getting back into the game before the visitors played out the final few minutes a player down, player-of-the-match Lisa Giampalma suffering a nasty ankle injury following a dubious tackle from a determined Guisely defender.

This was a game lost by Sheffield rather than won by Guiseley, and lessons will have to be learned both in terms of converting the chances created through excellent approach play, and not giving away cheap goals. That is not to take away anything from the hosts, who defended resolutely in front of the outstanding Joanne Farquhar between the posts and took their only three clear-cut chances with clinical efficiency. The result proved to be the low point for the writer on a day which saw me getting lost in Bradford on the way there (tempered with the spotting of four Eddie Stobarts and a James Irlam/Eddie Stobart combo), and lost in Leeds on the way home (with one Eddie Stobart/James Irlam combo), the high point being a pre-match visit to Harry Ramsdens. Let’s hope next week brings more joy when Sheffield host Lumley in the quarter final of the League Cup.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Steph Spence, Chloe Sutton, Nell Taylor, Helen Wakefield, Lisa Giampalma, Rachel Charles, Lynne Grainger, Clare Holmes, Lisa Bailey

Subs:  Marie Widerman (for Charles), Nicola Cox (for Wakefield)

Goal scorer:  Lisa Bailey

Player Of The Match: Lisa Giampalma

North East Regional Women's Football League Cup Round 3
Wednesday, 04/03/09

Ossett Albion Ladies 0    Sheffield FC Ladies 7

Match report to follow.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Steph Spence, Chloe Sutton, Nell Taylor, Helen Wakefield, Lisa Giampalma, Rachel Charles, Lynne Grainger, Clare Holmes, Lisa Bailey

Subs:  Holly Nicholson (for Wakefield), Sarah Rixham (for Grainger), Sarah Coggin (for Bailey), Georgia Ward (unused)

Goal scorers:  Lisa Bailey (4), Clare Holmes, Lynne Grainger, Sarah Coggin

Player Of The Match: Lisa Bailey

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 01/03/09

Sheffield FC Ladies 4 Guiseley Ladies 1

Despite last week's win, Sheffield were looking for a far better performance with today’s visit of Guiseley, and a brace of goals from Clare Holmes, one in each half, plus further strikes from Steph Spence and Lisa Giampalma saw them maintain their position at the top of the league on a sunny afternoon at the BFS, writes Trevor Herrington.

The first action of the day saw Gemma Gale thread the ball through to Holmes, but she is muscled off the ball by her marker. There was drama on the quarter hour mark when Gale's superb corner was met by the head of Lauren Davids, and her goal-bound effort was handled on the line by a defender. This gave the referee little option but to dismiss the player, then the Guiseley ‘keeper did well to save Gemma Gale's spot kick. Sheffield were starting to pressure the visitors more as Guiseley were still trying to come to terms with being a player short. The hosts took a deserved lead on 22 minutes when a ball cleared out towards the touchline was kept in by Lisa Giampalma, and her near post cross was deftly headed home by Clare HOLMES. Sheffield were dominating proceedings at this stage, and it was only fine goalkeeping by Joanne Farquar and sterling defensive work from the Guiseley captain, Katie Matthews, that was keeping the score as close as it was, although Clare Holmes again went close with a header from a cross by Lynne Grainger. Guiseley did manage to break forward on occasions but Caz Whiteman was never tested in the home goal. Once again Sheffield looked threatening on their set plays as another Gemma Gale corner caused panic in the Guiseley defence, Lisa Bailey eventually firing over from the edge of the area. Gemma Gale herself almost got on the scoresheet on the stroke of halftime when her direct free kick from out wide hit the base of the post before being cleared.

The second half saw Sheffield carry on where they had left off as Lisa Giampalma once again sped down the wing before delivering a cross that was just touched away by Joanne Farquhar with Clare Holmes about to head home. The visitors half time talk must have been inspiring as their heads were up and they started to push forward more until, on 53 minutes, they were rewarded when some slack defending let in Jen Taylor to hit a shot from distance into the net, giving Caz Whiteman no chance. However, their joy was short lived as Sheffield once again took the initiative a minute later when Gemma Gale chipped a ball forward over the Guiseley back four and, as the ‘keeper came out for it, Clare HOLMES was there before her to head it over her and prod it into the empty net. Guiseley were still not giving up though, but the Sheffield backline were holding firm despite the increased pressure. The hosts increased their lead on 65 minutes when yet another Gemma Gale cross found Steph SPENCE up for the corner, and her header found the gap between defender and post to make it 3-1. Michelle Fletcher was next to try her luck with a long range effort just off target. Clare Holmes was still searching for her hat trick and got an accidental kick in the head for her troubles when going for a loose ball. However, she soon recovered and was instrumental in setting up Sheffield's fourth goal as, on 70 minutes, she battled her way through a couple of tackles in midfield to turn provider as she threaded the ball through to Lisa GIAMPALMA, who rounded the stranded ‘keeper to score. A few minutes later and Holmes was through again, but her shot was well saved by Joanne Farquhar to deny the hat trick. With the game entering its final stages and Guiseley visibly tiring, Lisa Giampalma was the next to try her luck with a shot just wide of the mark. If Guiseley thought they could relax with the substitution of Gemma Gale from taking set piece free kicks they were wrong as Rachel Charles was also delivering accurate balls into the danger area, one of which saw Steph Spence try an overhead kick that only just sailed over the bar. In added time, Joanne Farquhar was again proving to be the nemesis of Clare Holmes as she snatched the ball away with the striker about to score.

So Sheffield stay ahead of the pack with a solid performance against a well organised Guiseley side who, even with a player short, made Sheffield work all the way for their victory. Next up is a break from the league as Sheffield make the short journey up to Ossett Albion on Wednesday night for their rearranged 3rd round League Cup encounter, with the victors assured of a home tie in the next round. Games between these two sides have always proved eventful, so come along and give the Ladies your support.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Chloe Sutton, Lisa Giampalma, Gemma Gale, Marie Widerman, Lynne Grainger, Clare Holmes, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Jade Turner (for Gale), Nicola Cox (for Bailey), Rachel Charles (for Widerman)

Goal scorer: Clare Holmes (2), Steph Spence, Lisa Giampalma

Player Of The Match: Clare Holmes

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 22/02/09

Sheffield FC Ladies 1 York City LFC 0

A goal in under 30 seconds by Lisa Bailey saw Sheffield go top of the league in what was probably there worst performance of the season, writes Trevor Herrington.

On a bright, sunny afternoon it was the perfect start as Sheffield caught the visitors cold when Clare Holmes broke down the right wing, outstripping her defender, and sent over a pinpoint cross into the penalty area where Lisa BAILEY was on hand to head home. Shell-shocked, the opposition had to weather a couple more chances before they settled into the game. It was certainly a lively opening for the hosts, but York soon came back into it, putting passes together and creating chances of their own. In fact, at this stage, they were more in control of the game as Sheffield were struggling to put any form of passing movement together. Gemma Gale had a good chance on 20 minutes as she surged into the box, but a good covering tackle prevented her from getting her shot away. A corner to the edge of the box found Bailey, whose chip forward was met by Steph Spence, but the defender fired over the bar. At the other end, Caz Whiteman had to be at her best to deny York an equaliser when she thwarted an onrushing forward with a full length save after some sloppy defending.

York started the second half with a cross-cum shot effort at goal that the ‘keeper had covered. Rachel Charles then had a good shot well saved at the near post, but chances were few as York pressed for an equaliser. Caz Whiteman once again had to be alert to block a shot with her feet while the back four, superbly marshalled by Lauren Davids, were having to work their socks off to keep the visitors at bay. Sheffield almost snatched another goal against the run of play when Marie Widerman floated a ball into the area and Helen Wakefield's first time shot was just the wrong side of the post. With the clock running down Sheffield were happy to play the ball into the corners in order to use up time, and managed to hang on for what the professionals usually call a scappy victory.

Sheffield knew they had been lucky today but the same has happened to them on many occasions, so perhaps they were due this one. In their favour, they have been inactive for three weeks due to the weather and the pitch didn't help their flowing style of football, but a gritty performance from the defence meant that York failed to take advantage of all the possesion they had. Next up is another home fixture next Sunday, March 1st, against Guiseley Ladies.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Lynne Grainger, Clare Holmes, Lisa Giampalma, Marie Widerman, Rachel Charles, Gemma Gale, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Helen Wakefield (for Charles), Nicola Cox (for Holmes), Christina Wright (unused)

Goal scorer: Lisa Bailey

Player Of The Match: Lauren Davids

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 01/02/09

Sheffield FC Ladies 3 Blyth Spartans Ladies 1

Despite going a goal down, two goals from Lisa Bailey and one from Lynne Grainger saw Sheffield take a well deserved three points at a snow- swept BFS this afternoon, writes Trevor Herrington.

Sheffield made a bright start, with Gemma Gale having the first shot on goal. Then a good break up the right wing from Lisa Giampalma saw her cross into the middle headed just wide by Steph Spence. It was all Sheffield in the early exchanges but the hosts found themselves a goal behind somewhat against the run of play when a Blyth free kick from 25 yards out was despatched into the top corner, despite the efforts of Caz Whiteman to keep it out. Lisa Giampalma had a chance to equalise just past the half hour mark when through on goal, but her effort was straight at the ‘keeper. Nell Taylor was next to test the ‘keeper, volleying a Gemma Gale corner goalwards only to see the visiting stopper pull off a fine save. In a rare attack, the visitors almost grabbed another goal with a forward breaking through and leaving Caz Whiteman stranded, but the effort was wide of the post. The hosts should have been going into the break level as, on the stroke of half time, some good work by Marie Widerman and Lisa Giampalma saw the ball put into the area where Nell Taylor was quick off the mark to beat the ‘keeper to it and square it across goal to the waiting Rachel Charles, who somehow missed with the goal at her mercy.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Blyth pinned back in their own half. Sheffield finally drew level on 51 minutes when yet another corner from Gemma Gale was met sweetly on the volley by LISA BAILEY, who powered home with the ‘keeper well beaten. The Spartans’ defence was now in total panic as wave after wave of attacks kept them pinned back just outside their own penalty area. Sheffield took a deserved lead on 82 minutes when Lisa BAILEY's cross caught in the wind and sailed over the ‘keeper and into the net. It was somewhat fortunate, but no more than the ladies deserved. Lisa Bailey almost celebrated a hat trick, but her fierce shot was cleared off the line. With the last ten minutes played out in blizzard conditions, Sheffield underlined their superiority deep into added time when Lynne GRAINGER scored from close range with her right foot, following up her effort moments before when she headed against the post.

A thoroughly commanding performance from the first whistle to the last. Despite the setback of going a goal behind Sheffield stuck to their task, and it was only a matter of time until the visitors’ defence would be breached. In fact, they were fortunate that it only ended up 3-1 as, on another day, the ladies would (and should) have had at least double that. Next up it's League Cup action next Sunday at Ossett Albion, with a place in the quarter finals as the reward for victory.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Lynne Grainger, Lisa Giampalma, Marie Widerman, Nell Taylor, Rachel Charles, Gemma Gale, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Clare Holmes (for Gale), Chloe Sutton (for Charles), Sarah Rixham (for Widerman)

Goal scorers: Lisa Bailey (2), Lynne Grainger

Player Of The Match: Lisa Giampalma

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 07/12/08

Hull City (Ladies) AFC 0 Sheffield FC Ladies 5

No match report.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Chloe Sutton, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Jade Turner, Michelle Fletcher, Gemma Gale, Marie Widerman, Lynne Grainger, Rachel Charles, Lisa Bailey

Sub: Nicola Cox (for Grainger)

Goal scorers: Lisa Bailey (2), Rachel Charles, Michelle Fletcher + og

Player Of The Match: Chloe Sutton

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 30/11/08

Sheffield FC Ladies 3 Huddersfield Town Ladies 1

No match report.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Chloe Sutton, Rachel Charles, Nell Taylor, Marie Widerman, Jade Turner, Clare Holmes, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Steph Spence (for Turner), Claire Cannon (for Sutton)

Goal scorers: Clare Holmes, Gemma Gale, Marie Widerman

Player Of The Match: Nell Taylor

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division

Sunday, 26/10/08

Barnsley Ladies 1 Sheffield FC Ladies 1

Sheffield ground out a hard fought draw at the Dorothy Hyman Stadium this afternoon with a goal from Lisa Bailey, writes Trevor Herrington. This despite playing for an hour with ten players after LIsa Giampalma was shown a straight red card for swearing at the referee.

The visitors started the game kicking with the sun and wind at their backs, and took full advantage with just five minutes played when a quick throw on the half way line from Gemma Gale found Lisa Giampalma, who in turn knocked it into the area where the Barnsley defence’s hesitancy allowed Lisa BAILEY to nip in ahead of the keeper and nod it over her and into the net. Gemma Gale was then involved again a few minutes later, this time getting in a good defensive block when a Barnsley forward was poised to shoot. Barnsley were trying to play a high defensive line, but Lisa Giampalma beat the system and made headway to the edge of the box before squaring the ball across the area. Unfortunately, no Sheffield player could get the decisive touch to poke the ball home. Despite having a full complement of officials the refereeing was somewhat haphazard to say the least, with no consistency at all; some of the decisions leaving even the crowd puzzled at times. Barnsley got on level terms on 28 minutes when the assistant referee indicated that Caz Whiteman had stepped out of her area when releasing a kick upfield. The resultant free kick was well struck, giving the ‘unfortunate keeper no chance. Sheffield were still having most of the play at this stage, but the turning point was just minutes away. A challenge by Lisa Giampalma in which the ball hit her foot and then shot up to hit a Barnsley player in the face was deemed a free kick by the referee. The Sheffield player was aggrieved at the decision and swore at the official, who handed her a straight red card. Stunned by this, the Sheffield team took a few minutes to reorganise while Barnsley pressed forward, their centre forward lobbing the ball over Caz Whiteman when through on goal, but Lauren Davids was on hand to clear the danger. The last five minutes saw plenty of action at both ends as Gemma Gale's corner was cleared at the near post before then trying her luck with a free kick that was just wide of the mark. At the other end Sheffield did well to clear a corner, a Barnsley player lurking on the edge of the area then firing a fierce shot just over the bar. The last action of the half saw Lauren Davids making one of her now customary 'last ditch' tackles to clear the ball when the Barnsley centre forward was poised to shoot.

As expected, Barnsley came out of the blocks the quickest for the second half, Caz Whiteman having to make an early save. Helen Wakefield then fired in a shot for the visitors that was easily dealt with. Despite being a player short Sheffield were producing the better football, making sure that their passes were not wasted and taking the game to their hosts. LIsa Bailey found herself in a good position. but she dwelt on the ball too long and the chance was gone. Barnsley almost caught Sheffield on a break down the left wing but, despite the cross evading Caz Whiteman, Lynne Grainger was on hand to head the ball clear. The home side then had a short period of sustained pressure, but Sheffield just dug in and worked hard for each other, a point proved when Helen Wakefield tracked back to dispossess a Barnsley forward on the edge of the area. With legs tiring it was time to make a change, Rachel Charles making way for Clare Holmes. By now Sheffield had weathered the storm and were carving out opportunities for themselves, although some frustration started to appear when the assistant kept on flagging for offside against players NOT interfering with play. With time running out Gemma Gale tried her luck with a long range free kick which the keeper gathered at the second attempt, with Clare Holmes lurking dangerously. It was Barnsley now who were hanging on, constantly giving away petty free kicks and getting away with 'just a word' from the referee for swearing! Barnsley's best effort of the half came from a free kick out wide pumped into the area which, despite the sun being in her eyes, was gathered at the second attempt by Caz Whiteman who then released the ball for a flowing move from one end to the other involving Michelle Fletcher, Helen Wakefield and Clare Holmes, whose final pass to Marie Widerman saw the midfielder's shot well saved by the ‘keeper. Chloe Sutton then came on to replace Helen Wakefield for the last ten minutes of the game. The hosts thought they had nicked it with under five minutes to go when a rare lapse of concentration let in the Barnsley number nine, but she blazed wildly over the bar. At the other end, the visitors had an equally good chance when the ball was threaded through to Chloe Sutton, who was clearly at least a yard offside. She drove forward into the area but her shot was into the side netting. So the game ended in a draw, but there was much to discuss between the Sheffield manager and the referee at the final whistle.

Although Sheffield only came away with one (very well earned) point, it was a moral victory for the team who can be proud of today's performance. The way they 'dug in' and never gave up was a credit to everyone involved. Next up is a home encounter against Blyth Spartans at the Bright Finance Stadium on Sunday 2nd November.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Lynne Grainger, Helen Wakefield, Marie Widerman, Nell Taylor, Rachel Charles, Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Clare Holmes (for Charles), Chloe Sutton (for Wakefield), Steph Spence (unused)

Goal scorer: Lisa Bailey

Player Of The Match: Lauren Davids

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Lynne Grainger, Helen Wakefield, Marie Widerman, Nell Taylor, Rachel Charles, Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Clare Holmes (for Bailey), Nicola Cox (for Wakefield), Chloe Sutton (unused)

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division
Sunday, 28/09/08

Sheffield FC Ladies 3 Sheffield United Community LFC 1

Despite ending the first half a goal down, strikes from Lisa Bailey, Steph Spence and Helen Wakefield secured a win in this local derby, writes Trevor Herrington. Sheffield put their local rivals to the sword in a full-blooded encounter in which no quarter was asked or given. It was United who were the first to settle as they mounted a few early attacks. Sheffield were not to be outdone though and produced some fine football themselves, but lacked the finish in the final third of the pitch. Local pride was high and United were well up for it with a somewhat physical approach, encouraged by their vociferous bench. Just before the half hour mark the visitors went in front when a corner wasn't cleared and the resulting goalmouth scramble found the ball in the back of the net. This rattled the home side, but the defence soon regained their composure. Lisa Giampalma had a good chance late in the half when she latched onto Helen Wakefield's pass, but the striker fired straight at the 'keeper.

The second half saw the home side come out of the blocks quickly to take the initiative (too quickly for me ‘cos I was in the gents! – ed), and the half was only two minutes old when the teams were level. A great run down the wing from Helen Wakefield saw her feed the ball inside to Lisa Giampalma, who had time to control the ball before firing hard and low. The ball struck the post but Lisa BAILEY was on hand to fire home the rebound. (I was still in the gents! – ed). Gemma Gale (making her 50th consecutive appearance) then saw her free kick go just wide of the post. At the other end, a United corner saw the ball flicked on but the defence cleared the danger. It was end-to-end stuff, although Sheffield had now settled into their renowned pass and move game, which was creating all sorts of problems for the United defence. Sheffield took a deserved lead on 73 minutes when a through ball to substitute Steph SPENCE found her waiting for support but, with none arriving, she took on a couple of defenders before unleashing a shot from the edge of the area that flew into the net. United brought on their substitutes and changed formation to push another player up front but Sheffield's experienced defence was more than capable of dealing with the pressure. The game was sewn up in the 86th minute when Lisa Giampalma found Rachel Charles in a good position in front of goal. Her shot was blocked but she managed to thread the ball through to Helen WAKEFIELD, whose shot with her 'wrong' foot from the edge of the area beat the 'keeper's outstretched hands. A lengthy delay then ensued as ex-clubbie Gemma Evans was hurt whilst clearing the ball for a corner. The remaining minutes saw Steph Spence find the net again, but the referee had already blown for an infringement. Lisa Giampalma then found herself with just the 'keeper to beat, but she lobbed the ball wide of the goal.

Overall, a resounding success. After an indifferent first half the team started to play the ball along the floor in the second half, and that's where the difference showed. A gritty performance from everyone, including debutants Jade Turner and Claire Cannon, with the usual sterling performance from the back four. A particular mention goes to full backs MIchelle Fletcher and Chloe Sutton, who were both outstanding. Next up is another home fixture next Sunday, against York City.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Chloe Sutton, Helen Wakefield, Marie Widerman, Nell Taylor, Jade Turner, Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Steph Spence (for Bailey), Rachel Charles (for Turner), Claire Cannon (for Taylor), Clare Holmes (unused)

Goal scorers: Lisa Bailey, Steph Spence, Helen Wakefield

Player Of The Match: Chloe Sutton

North East Regional Women's Football League Premier Division
Sunday, 14/09/08

Sheffield FC Ladies 7 Hull City LFC 0

Sheffield started their league campaign in emphatic style with a mauling of the Tigers from Hull, writes Trevor Herrington. First half goals from Marie Widerman, Lynne Grainger and Natalie Crofts saw the home side well in control, and second half strikes from Nell Taylor, Lynne Grainger (again), Steph Spence and Rachel Charles secured a well deserved victory.

It was the visitors who were first on the attack, with Lauren Davids making one of her customary blocks to deny a shooting chance. After that it was Sheffield who took hold of the game, Marie Widerman getting things going with a shot that made the 'keeper stretch. Just after 15 minutes, some nifty footwork from Lynne Grainger released Gemma Gale for another shot that the 'keeper just managed to get down to. It was clear at this early stage that the team had learnt from last week's match about 'having a go' and getting some shots at the opposition 'keeper. Lynne Grainger was creating all kinds of trouble on the left wing and, on 19 minutes, she set up Sheffield's first goal with a cross into the area that Marie WIDERMAN gambled on and headed over the 'keeper and into the net. Gemma Gale was next to go close when her header was just over the bar after good work from Marie Widerman. Sheffield's passing and movement were a joy to watch and, when no outlet was evident, they were content to keep possession until an opening could be created. Just after the half hour mark Lynne Graingers' cross was just too long for Lisa Bailey, but the striker chased it down and beat the 'keeper to the ball before taking it along the byline and waiting for an opening before placing the ball at the feet of Lynne GRAINGER, who drilled it home from three yards. The scorer was then through on her own but took a touch too many, allowing the 'keeper to close her down and avert the danger. After a couple of good chances went begging, the hosts increased their lead on 36 minutes when full back Natalie CROFTS unleashed a terrific shot from 22 yards out that gave the 'keeper no chance. Marie Widerman then sent over a cross into the area which the 'keeper did well to palm away off the head of Lynne Grainger. Apart from the very start Caz Whiteman in the Sheffield goal had been a virtual spectator, Hull not getting a shot on target until the last minute of the half.

The second half saw no let up in pressure from Sheffield as Lisa Giampalma set off on a run down the right wing before crossing for Nell Taylor, but her shot was straight at the 'keeper. However another goal wasn't long in coming as, on 50 minutes, Lisa Bailey set off down the wing and took the ball right to the byline before turning it inside, and this time Nell TAYLOR made sure with a shot into the roof of the net. Two minutes later and Sheffield were about to celebrate another goal as Lisa Giampalma ran through unopposed to beat the 'keeper, but the referee ruled it offside. Hull had a snapshot at goal after a clearance upfield, but the first-time effort was well wide of the mark. Normal service was then resumed as first Lynne Grainger then Lisa Bailey had efforts at goal go just wide. The latter went even closer with her next effort as she volleyed Gemma Gale’s corner first time, but it was cleared off the line by a defender. Sheffield increased their lead on 66 minutes when Michelle Fletcher fed the ball up the line to Lisa Bailey whose cross was touched away by the 'keeper from the feet of the onrushing Lisa Giampalma, but Lynne GRAINGER was on hand to fire home into the empty net. With the game safe, it was time to make substitutions which brought Jodie Crofts, Chloe Sutton and Rachel Charles on to replace Lynne Grainger, Gemma Gale and Lisa Bailey. That midfield dynamo Lisa Giampalma then set off on a determined run, avoiding three tackles before crossing to Rachel Charles, whose first-time volley was high, wide and in the car park. The youngster soon got into the game though, and it was her corner on 82 minutes that led to Sheffield's next goal as Steph SPENCE was on hand to head into the top corner. Both Rachel Charles and Jodie Crofts then went close with efforts just over the bar. The final goal came in added time as Rachel CHARLES latched onto a defensive error and drilled the ball hard and low into the bottom corner.

So a great start for the ladies which should make the other teams in the league sit up and take notice. What was pleasing to see was the passing and movement of the team and the patient build up when looking for an opening to attack. Next up is the local derby against Sheffield United in two weeks' time.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Natalie Crofts, Marie Widerman, Nell Taylor, Gemma Gale, Lynne Grainger,

Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Jodie Crofts (for Grainger), Chloe Sutton (for Gale), Rachel Charles (for Bailey)

Goal scorers: Lynne Grainger (2), Marie Widerman, Natalie Crofts, Nell Taylor, Steph Spence, Rachel Charles

Player Of The Match: Marie Widerman

FA Women's Cup Preliminary Round
Sunday, 07/09/08

Sheffield FC Ladies 1 Barnsley LFC 3

Despite a Lisa Giampalma goal inside two minutes, Sheffield's flirtation with this season's Women's FA Cup came to an abrupt halt at the first hurdle, writes Trevor Herrington.

Things looked well for the home side when, with their first attack, they were able to get on the scoreboard when Gemma Gale won the ball in the middle of the park and sent it forward to Lisa Bailey who, having held the ball up, found Lisa GIAMPALMA running in unmarked to calmly slot the ball home under the body of the Barnsley 'keeper. The lead only lasted six minutes though, as a Barnsley break down the left hand side saw the home defence struggling to keep pace and, despite Caz Whiteman's effort to reduce the angle, the forward took the ball around her and into the now empty net. Sheffield could have regained the lead just after 10 minutes when Lisa Giampalma delivered a perfect pass to Nell Taylor, who was unmarked in the area, but her effort lacked power and the opportunity was lost. It was the hosts who were asking all the question, keeping Barnsley on the back foot as Gemma Gale delivered a free kick to the back post which was tipped off Steph Spence's head with the goal at her mercy, the referee deeming that it was the home player who got the last touch. Sheffield went behind on 19 minutes when, from a free kick of their own, the ball was cleared upfield out of the area and once again the home defence was exposed as the Barnsley player nipped in between defender and 'keeper to give the visitors an unexpected lead. Sheffield kept their composure and, just past the half hour mark, Rachel Charles delivered a great cross into the area that saw Lisa Bailey run in and hit it first time, the shot thudding against the post with the 'keeper well beaten. Gemma Gale then had a strong, determined run from midfield and swung over a cross that Lisa Giampalma met perfectly with her head, this time the ball coming off the underside of the bar! Then, after a scramble in the Barnsley goalmouth, Jodie Crofts found the ball at her feet with her back to the goal, but her cheeky back heel was thwarted by the 'keeper. The visitors were more than relieved at that stage to hear the referee blow for half time.

The second half saw Sheffield introduce Helen Wakefield and Lynne Grainger at the expense of Rachel Charles and Jodie Crofts to add more pace and experience on the wings. However, things couldn't get any worse for the home side as, with just 3 minutes of the half played, Barnsley broke forward and once again a clinical finish saw the visitors score their third goal of the game. Sheffield pressed forward, with both Lynne Grainger and Helen Wakefield causing problems for the overworked Barnsley defence, the former having a couple of efforts go just the wrong side of the post. On the hour mark, a back pass was chased down by Lisa Giampalma which the 'keeper could only half clear, the ball running to Lisa Bailey who, in turn, fed it into the path of Gemma Gale, but the midfielder was closed down just before she could unleash a shot at the empty goal. Helen Wakefield then went close as her looping shot found the Barnsley 'keeper stranded, but the effort was just over the bar. At the other end Caz Whiteman was a virtual spectator, having to make just the one save as Sheffield pinned the visitors in their own half. The last ten minutes were played out in a thunderstorm, but there was to be no storming finish for Sheffield as the visitors held fast to progress through to the next round.

A disappointing result in a game which was largely dominated by the home side. Some clinical finishing from the visitors (four chances, three goals) and some uncharacteristic 'defending' from the hosts being the difference between the teams. It's not all doom and gloom though; the players will learn from today's game and, if Barnsley are an indication of the strength of teams the ladies will be playing this year, then they have nothing to fear. They just need to be more positive in the final third of the pitch and have a shot now and again, instead of trying to find that perfect pass. Next up is the first league fixture of the season at home to Hull City, so let's tame those Tigers!

Sheffield FC Ladies: Caz Whiteman, Michelle Fletcher, Lauren Davids, Steph Spence, Natalie Crofts, Rachel Charles, Nell Taylor, Gemma Gale, Jodie Crofts,

Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Helen Wakefield (for Charles), Lynne Grainger (for J.Crofts), Marie Widerman (for Spence)

Goal scorer: Lisa Giampalma

Player Of The Match: Michelle Fletcher

North East Regional Women's Football League Cup Round 2
Sunday, 31/08/08

Collingham Tadcaster Ladies 0 Sheffield FC Ladies 8

Having been awarded a walkover a week earlier in the same competition due to Manvers being unable to raise a team, Sheffield FC Ladies finally launched their competitive season with a League Cup tie at Collingham Tadcaster Ladies, writes John Shepherd. With last season’s Division 1 South Champions meeting one of the teams relegated from the same league the outcome should have been assured from the outset, and so it proved.

On an uneven surface of longish grass and watched by a handful of spectators plus two dozen cattle in the adjacent field, the visitors were quickly out of the blocks and, having ballooned a first minute effort over the bar from a Lisa Giampalma cross, Lisa BAILEY converted her second chance with ease to establish a second minute lead. The next twenty minutes saw chances fall to Jodie Crofts, Lisa Giampalma and Gemma Gale which were thwarted by a combination of tenacious defending and careless finishing before Lisa Bailey fed Lisa GIAMPALMA to slot home Sheffield’s second. Nell Taylor saw her shot blocked by the home ‘keeper, who repeated the heroics a few minutes later by stopping a shot from Gemma GALE with her face, only for the Sheffield midfielder to pounce on the rebound and tap it home. The ‘keeper had taken quite a blow and, after a few minutes of treatment but still very groggy, she left the field of play to retire from the proceedings. Her replacement enjoyed some ten minutes of respite as Rachel Charles fired wide from twenty yards and Lisa Giampalma failed to untangle her legs sufficiently to take advantage of a close range opportunity following a corner, but had no chance as Rachel CHARLES eventually hit the visitors’ fourth from a tight angle inside the six yard box. Lisa BAILEY fired home number five from ten yards as half time approached, and Lisa Giamplama just failed to make it a half dozen as she was released by a throw-in but fired wide on the run.

The second half saw Caz Whiteman make her comeback from injury for Sheffield as she replaced Bex Evans between the sticks. Despite the scoreline the hosts fought on with great spirit, and it wasn’t until the hour mark that the visitors extended their lead with the best goal of the game, Jodie Crofts laying the ball back to NATALIE CROFTS for the young defender to calmly lob the stand-in ‘keeper from twenty five yards into the far corner of the net. Over the next twenty minutes chances were put wide by Gemma Gale, Lisa Bailey and Sarah Coggin, whilst the hosts came closest to scoring when Caz Whiteman first spilled a shot over the by-line, and then Natalie Crofts cleared off the line from the resulting corner. The last five minutes saw Sheffield complete their scoring as Sarah COGGIN fired home from fifteen yards and, in the dying moments, Jodie Crofts was brought down for a penalty for which Caz WHITEMAN was called up from the other end of the pitch to depatch with ease.

Although the scoreline suggests a totally one-sided contest, the hosts never stopped battling and kept Sheffield honest throughout as preparation for the much tougher challenge of Barnsley Ladies in the FA Cup at the Bright Finance Stadium next Sunday.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Bex Evans, Chloe Sutton, Lauren Davids, Natalie Crofts, Marie Wilderman, Rachel Charles, Gemma Gale, Nell Taylor, Jodie Crofts, Lisa Giampalma, Lisa Bailey

Subs: Caz Whiteman (for Evans), Claire Cannon (for Sutton), Sarah Coggin (for Giampalma)

Goal scorers: Lisa Bailey (2), Lisa Giampalma, Gemma Gale, Rachel Charles, Natalie Crofts, Sarah Coggin, Caz Whiteman (pen)

Player Of The Match: Jodie Crofts

Friendly
Sunday, 10/08/08

Sheffield FC Ladies 1 Derby County Ladies 4

Sheffield continued their pre-season build up with this afternoon'sencounter against higher league opposition Derby County, writes Trevor Herrington.

Playing the regular 45 minutes each half but with rolling substitutions, it was Bex Evans who was first called into action for the home side as the diminutive 'keeper had to stretch high to gather. At the other end Lisa Giampalma had a shot with a first time volley, but the ball skewed off her foot and out for a throw-in. The visitors then went close with a header before a flowing move involving Gemma Gale and Helen Wakefield found Lisa Giampalma in the box, but she hesitated a fraction too long and the visitors' defence was able to clear the danger. Half way through the first period and Bex Evans had to race off her line to clear the ball with an attacker bearing down on her. The deadlock was broken on 18 minutes when Lucy Smail was on hand to poke the ball home with a close range effort. Sheffield had a couple of very good chances just after the half hour mark when Sarah Coggin broke through on her own into the area, only to see her effort blocked. Lynne Grainger then delivered the perfect cross right under the County bar, but the 'keeper was once again on hand to make a good save. County doubled their lead on forty minutes when they pushed forward and, although Bex Evans initially saved the first effort on target, the ball broke loose to Lucy Smail once again who fired home from a tight angle.

Five minutes after the restart and Sheffield almost pulled a goal back as Lisa Giampalma was put through on goal, but a great tackle by Duggins saved the day for the visitors. A Gemma Gale free kick into the area found Nicola Cox well positioned, but her header was gathered by Jenny Simpson in the

Derby goal. Sheffield were having more of the play at this stage, but the visitors still looked dangerous on the ball as Lauren Davids had to make one of her customary last ditch tackles to save the danger from a Derby counter attack. Just past the hour mark Lisa Giampalma broke down the right and squared the ball to Nicola Cox, but her shot lacked power and Jenny Simpson was able to gather the ball easily. At the other end, Bex Evans once again had to grow that extra inch or two as Duggins found space on the right and tried to chip the ball over the 'keeper, who managed to save the effort. Chances were at a premium for the home side against a well drilled Derby defence but they did eventually get on the scoresheet when Helen Wakefield beat the onrushing 'keeper to the ball and crossed to Nicola COX, who had the simplest of chances to score. Sheffield were buoyed by this breakthrough and took the game to the visitors, but the renewed enthusiasm was quashed somewhat four minutes later when a routine pass back to the 'keeper saw Bex Evans lose control of the ball and Sophie Thomas was on hand to disposses her and fire home to increase the Rams' lead. The scoring was completed on 87 minutes when Lauren Davids gave away a penalty and Leanne Abbey scored from the spot, despite the 'keeper guessing the right way.

Overall it was a good performance against a very good side, but the final score doesn't reflect how close and competitive the game was - the result being decided by the visitors taking their chances, helped by a couple of bad mistakes from the home side. The new players are settling in and the side is playing well as a whole, which bodes well for the start of the new season commencing on August 24th with a League Cup game away at Manvers.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Bex Evans, Chloe Sutton, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Christina Wright, Helen Wakefield, Nell Taylot, Lisa Giampalma, Lynne Grainger, Marie Widerman, Jodie Crofts,

Subs (all used): Claire Cannon, Sarah Coggin, Natalie Crofts, Nicola Cox

Goal scorer: Nicola Cox

Friendly
Sunday, 27/07/08

Sheffield FC Ladies  1    Bradford City WFC 2

Sheffield Ladies opened their home campaign with a pre-season friendly against Northern Combination League side Bradford City Ladies, writes Trevor Herrington.

On a sweltering hot afternoon the teams agreed to play three 30 minute periods, and the hosts kicked off towards the Dronfield end. With less than five minutes on the clock Evans had to be at her best to fingertip a shot round the post, swiftly followed by another effort which was well dealt with. After that Sheffield settled into their stride, trying out a different formation and using rolling substitutes as and when. There was little to choose between the sides with both playing good football.

The second period saw Lisa Bailey go close with a shot and, not long after, substitute Nicola Cox found herself through on goal but, after beating the 'keeper on the edge of the area, somehow managed to hit the post with the goal at her mercy. The visitors took the lead on 48 minutes when a deep cross to the back post was palmed out by Evans, but into the path of a Bradford forward who was on hand to convert the rebound. At the other end Lisa Bailey did well to battle her way through into a shooting position on the edge of the area, but her effort was just wide of the mark.

The beginning of the third period saw the hosts draw level when, two minutes after the restart, Gemma GALE was brought down in the area. The midfielder picked herself up, dusted herself down, and powered home the spot kick, giving the 'keeper no chance. It was a very even contest played at a good pace considering the heat, and both sides had chances to take the lead. The visitors eventually achieved this on 73 minutes when, from a corner, a Bradford forward headed home through a crowded goalmouth.

Overall a very good work out with plenty of positives to think about, and our ladies certainly played as well as their higher league opposition.

Sheffield FC Ladies: Bex Evans, Harriet Flint, Lauren Davids, Christina Wright, Natalie Crofts, Helen Wakefield, Gemma Gale, Nell Taylot, Lynne Grainger, Lisa Bailey, Jodie Crofts,

Subs (all used): Chloe Sutton, Nicola Cox, Carly Gill, Caroline Texier

Goal scorer:  Gemma Gale (pen)

Friendly

Wednesday, 23/07/08

Ossett Albion Ladies 2    Sheffield FC Ladies  7

Sheffield FC Ladies: Bex Evans, Katrina Brett, Lauren Davids, Gemma Gale, Christina Wright, Claire Cannon, Lisa Giampalma, Nell Taylor, Lynne Grainger, Megan Nelson, Rachel Charles

Subs (all used): Jade Turner, Harriet Flint, Caroline Texier, Brook Hodges

Goal scorers: Lisa Giampalma (4), Lynne Grainger, Rachel Charles, Caroline Texier

Friendly

Wednesday, 16/07/08

Beighton Ladies  0    Sheffield FC Ladies 6

Sheffield FC Ladies: Rhianon Davison, Katrina Brett, Christina Wright, Harriet Flint, Claire Cannon, Rachel Charles, Gemma Gale, Holly Nicholson, Lynne Grainger, Megan Nelson, Clare Holmes

Subs (all used): Sally Barber, Caroline Texier, Nassima Mokri, Jo Fitzgerald

Goal scorers:  Clare Holmes (4), Gemma Gale (2)