In a nervy performance on an awful playing surface, Sheffield FC Reserves overcame a determined performance from South Kirkby Colliery to secure the Division 1 title as unbeaten Champions.

Sheffield started well with a nice move out from the back releasing Simon Brier to test the home defence but he was well marshalled. Eamonn Chapman slipped a good ball to Joel Purkiss and he found Danny Beech but the winger was adjudged offside. Sheffield had started on the front foot and Keir Hannity pressed forward in the area eventually losing out to the slightly bigger built Keith Mayne. From the goal kick South Kirkby broke well down the right the ball finding the feet of Jimmy Faulkner who lashed home from the edge of the area to give the home side the early advantage. Sheffield were soon back on terms with Purkiss holding the ball well and on the turn finding Brier with a super ball over to the left. He sprinted for the area, controlled the ball well on the uneven surface and struck home a great left foot shot to make it 1 - 1 after 10 minutes. The midfield game was getting nervous and scrappy but there were some flashes of good football; Purkiss got Danny McKenzie away on the right and Chapman got Beech away on the left - his shot, worth the effort, was well off target. South Kirkby were looking most dangerous from free kicks and corners with Jack Wakefield getting good possession from just such an opportunity he hit a dipping shot just over the bar. Sheffield got into the lead after 25 minutes when Keir Hannity, having a good game alongside Chapman, got the ball across to Purkiss who looked offside but with the assistant referee's flag staying down he got to the bye line and put in a good cross to the unmarked Hannity who stabbed the ball home from close range. From the re-start Sheffield had another attack of nerves; losing possession on the left they allowed Ryan Williams a shot just over the bar. Sheffield were certainly more comfortable going forward and finished the half with a succession of good moves the best of which saw McKenzie pinch the ball in midfield and after a good run he found Hannity who slipped the ball to Brier but the subsequent chance was off target.

Sheffield committed the crime of conceding a free kick in a dangerous position in the first attack of the second half but Wakefield sliced his effort well wide. Andy Taylor was winning the ball well in centre defence and a clearance fell to Purkiss and under pressure he got his shot off too early and it was high and wide. Taylor found Brier with another long ball and he took a good first touch but was well defended. In the first real flowing move of the second period McKenzie, Purkiss and Hannity did well to set up Purkiss and his shot went just wide. Club were now dominating kicking down the slope and two superb chances fell to Elliot Simpson and Joel Purkiss; both through on goal and looking likely to score with Nevison in the South Kirkby goal standing his ground well and denying both Sheffield players. Sheffield had cause to regret both these misses on the hour when South Kirkby pulled a goal back following a corner. Keith Cronin having replaced Danny Beech, Janni Lipka replaced Elliot Simpson. Sheffield quickly restored their advantage when McKenzie set off on a great run down the right and scored with a great strike from the right hand side of the penalty area. Purkiss and Cronin did well on the left of the penalty area and Cronin's ball into the box was just in front of the oncoming Lipka. Brier then made a superb run along the defensive line and collected the ball but again Nevison was up to the task; it was then Chapman's turn to get a scoring opportunity; with 75 minutes gone, Cronin got to the line again and his ball found Chapman on the edge of the 6 yard box and he somehow scooped the shot over the bar with the goal gaping. South Kirkby were tiring however and when Brier was upended the free kick came to Joel Purkiss who struck the ball home through the defenders to make it 4 - 2 to Sheffield. When shortly after the goal Cronin was fouled in the area, Taylor stepped up but unfortunately put the spot-kick wide of the keeper's right hand post. Josh Jones replaced Eamonn Chapman on 80 minutes and Sheffield played out the remaining 10 minutes fairly comfortably although due to frustration, tiredness or whatever there were one or two niggling challenges which took the enjoyment out of the occasion.

So it finished 4 -2 to Sheffield and with the victory the champagne celebrations for a title well deserved and well won. Congratulations to all who have been a part of it!

Team: Liam Smith, Lloyd Gelsthorpe, Joe Jerrison, Andy Taylor, Eamonn Chapman (Josh Jones), Keir Hannity, Danny McKenzie, Elliot Simpson (Janni Lipka), Simon Brier, Joel Purkiss, Danny Beech (Keith Cronin), Jon Linnell.

Brigg Town 2 Sheffield FC 0

UniBond League Division One South

Friday 10/04/09

Glapwell 2 Sheffield FC 3

UniBond Division One South

Tuesday, 31/03/09 

Once again it was Sheffield who were straight on the attack, Roney evading his marker and putting the ball across goal, but no one was there to convert the opportunity. At this stage, Goddard was replaced by Wainman; perhaps hoping more pace might just unlock the Rushall defence who on the whole had no trouble dealing with the aerial assault on goal, but were suspect when the ball was on the floor. Sheffield were back in the game on the hour mark, when a rash challenge by Beale on Roney saw him give away a free kick on the left of the Rushall area. Paul Smith whipped the ball in and GRAHAM was on hand to head into the top corner, despite Clarke getting his hand to it. It was still nearly all Sheffield, but Fitzpatrick went close with a half chance for the visitors, almost taking the home side by surprise. With Fretwell on for Winter in midfield, Sheffield made their last substitution when Muldoon was replaced by Woolley, Roney switching wings to accommodate the change. Rushall were being pinned back as Sheffield went for the win, Potter going close with a long range effort just over the bar. However, the resulting goal-kick by Clarke saw the visitors launch an attack which had the home defence at sixes and sevens and Rushton took full advantage to retake the lead as LAMEY drove forward into the area, placing his shot beyond Furniss. With just 15 minutes left to play, the visitors were happy to try and soak up the pressure. When Sheffield did breach the defence Clarke was on hand to quell the danger, Roney seeing his rasping shot gathered at the second attempt. Rushall tried to disrupt the assault on goal by making a substitution (Stevens for Marshall), but still Sheffield pressed for the equaliser. With time running out a Paul Smith cross to the back post found Fretwell unmarked, but once again Clarke was on hand to save the header. With 90 minutes played, and at least three minutes of added time to play, Rushall once again took the heat off their defence by making another substitute, Forsdick replacing Lamey. The scoring was completed in added time when FORSDICK netted from close range, much to the delight of Dave Clarke who, along with his team-mates was glad all over.

A disappointing result after such a hard fought win on Tuesday, but credit to Rushall who had a game plan and played to their strengths, the difference being they created three chances and scored on each occasion. Sheffield now has four successive away games, starting on Tuesday at high flyers Glapwell.

BTF Man of the Match: Matt Roney

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Potter, Wright, P.Smith, G.Smith, Winter (Fretwell), Roney, Eagers, Goddard (Wainman), Graham, Muldoon (Woolley). Sub Not Used: Cam.

Rushall Olympic: Clarke, Beale, Haywood, Preston, Barrow, Johnson, Palmer, Lamey (Forsdick), Marshall (Stevens), Beckett, Fitzpatrick. Subs Not Used: Hanna, Daniels, Williams.

Att: 307

Sheffield FC 3   Lincoln United 2

UniBond Division One South

Tuesday 24/03/09

A first half strike from man of the match Matt Roney and two second half efforts from Gavin Smith and Jack Muldoon saw Sheffield overcome a two goal deficit to win their fourth game on the bounce at a rain lashed BFS tonight.

On a rock hard surface to start with it was the visitors who had the first chance on goal, Furniss getting down well to block a shot from Wilkinson. At the other end, Muldoon tried his luck running onto a through ball to volley wide of the mark. A steady rainfall, coupled with a strong breeze was making life difficult for the players to keep their footing, and too many times the hosts were guilty of hitting the ball forward too hard, by not allowing for the weather conditions. Having said, when they started to play the ball around, the United defence were stretched at every opportunity, with Roney time and again evading his marker to get a cross in. Graham had a guilt edged opportunity 20 minutes in when Potter's cross found him unmarked, but he sliced his shot well wide of the target. Against the run of play Lincoln took the lead when McDAID was allowed to go through the defence and fire a shot which gave Furniss no chance. Sheffield still pressed forward and a Paul Smith free kick saw Ziccardi in the visitors’ goal having to palm the effort out. Despite most of the play being in the Lincoln half, United almost snatched another goal on the break when Furniss had to save from Cann. More chances went begging for Club amid the now steady downpour, None more so than when Graham's shot hit the post and rebounded to Goddard who sky-ed the ball over from six yards. With four minutes of the half left the visitors took advantage of some slack defending to drive into the area, only for Gav Smith to bundle over Josh Giles, the referee pointing straight to the spot for a penalty. CANN made no mistake from the resultant kick. Thankfully their undeserved two goal cushion was reduced a minute later when man of the match RONEY fired in a brilliant drive from 25 yards that gave Ziccardi no chance.

Amid the wet conditions, Sheffield started the second half on the attack, Goddard going close with a glancing header from Graham's cross. Ziccardi was then in action once more, punching away a free kick from Smith. Just past the hour mark Lincoln had the opportunity to sneak further ahead, but Furniss was alert enough to come out and block at the strikers feet. The pressure was well and truly on Lincoln now, who were defending in numbers but were undone in the 65th minute when yet another goalmouth scramble saw Gavin SMITH on hand to steer the ball home, despite Lincoln appeals for offside. Sheffield seemed to find another gear then, and with Wainman replacing Goddard it gave the Lincoln defenders yet something else to worry about, as he closed down on defenders giving them little time dwell on the ball. Still chances came and went, with United clinging on for their lives. Sheffield finally got their deserved winner on the 84th minute when once again Roney terrorised the Lincoln defence, making head roads down the left wing before cutting in on the touchline and delivering a ball in front of the goal which MULDOON was glad to knock in from two yards. A minute later and the lead was almost increased as a long ball forward saw Graham give chase out wide, who beat the keeper to it who had come for the same ball but his effort trickled agonisingly the wrong side of the post. That was Graham's last slice of action, as Dolby brought on Cam to replace him, and also eat up some precious seconds on the clock. However, the referee still indicated that there would be a minimum of four extra minutes and supporters’ hearts were in their mouths when Lincoln won a corner. Up went Ziccardi, abandoning his goalkeeping duties but the ball was cleared out to Cam who punted the ball goalwards towards the unguarded net and with Roney running on it looked all on another goal until Fleming somehow managed to get a tackle in to clear.

A deserved victory and you can't do better than four wins from four home matches on the trot. Next up is another home fixture on Saturday against Rushall Olympic. Can we make it a handful of wins?

BTF Man of the Match: Matt Roney

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Potter, Wright, P.Smith, G.Smith, Winter, Roney, Eagers, Goddard (Wainman), Graham (Cam), Muldoon. Subs Not Used: Fretwell.

Lincoln United: Ziccardi, Fleming, Porter, Wilkins, George, McDaid, Giles, Wilkinson (Forbes), Lowman, Cann, Atkinson. Subs Not Used: K.Smith, Creane.

Att: 260

Retford United 3 Sheffield FC 0

UniBond Division One North South

Tuesday, 10/03/09

Retford did their championship hopes no harm, this evening at Cannon Park, as they brushed aside a Sheffield outfit with three set-piece goals. Chris Bettney opened the scoring in the 12^th minute, followed by a second in the 28^th minute by Daniel White, whilst Michael Simpkins put the kybosh on any possible comeback with a third in the 76^th minute. Club had rallied and applied a fair amount of pressure in the second period, but lacked any cutting edge, and could hardly argue with the scoreline.

The opening of this game was a tightly contested affair, and if Sheffield were going to get anything from the night the first thing they needed to avoid was an early goal, but when Chambers’ header hit the bar the warning signs were there for all to see. But when the Badgers did make the breakthrough it came direct from a free-kick, with BETTNEY curling a lovely strike into the top corner, leaving Furniss with no chance of getting anything near the ball. Club came out of their shell straight after this, and Paul Smith came close with a screamer from 25 yards, with Simpkins deflecting the shot over the bar with his head. Just before the half hour mark Sheffield were caught cold from a corner, with Ford popping the ball into the middle, and WHITE getting there with an un-marked header.

After the restart the majority of the play was in the home team’s defensive half, although Sheffield rarely threatened, despite the best energetic efforts of Stewart Copnell. But the closest to a goal in the opening moments came at the other end, with Owens getting a shot on target, producing an excellent save from Marc Furniss. At the other end ex-Clubbie Ross Turner thwarted his old team, with Copnell the man being denied, as the Badgers’ stopper got down to stop the Sheffield player’s pile-driving free-kick. Regardless of how much attacking and pressing Club applied, Retford were more than capable of clearing their lines, and with fifteen to go they hit the visitors with the ultimate sucker-punch. Adam Fretwell was penalised for a foul about twenty yards out, Ford dummied the free-kick, and SIMPKINS capped a fine captain’s performance with a neatly curled short into the top corner.

All-in-all Retford never seemed to get out of first gear, all three goals came from set pieces, and a fair few of the hosts’ players never had to really get involved in the game. For all Sheffield’s efforts – and no mistake there was plenty of effort from the visitors – they couldn’t break a well organised and blunt defensive line. Hopefully they’ll be able to take some positives from this one, and with a little luck they’ll be able to capitalise on the pressure in the next game, and convert a few chances against the visitors on Saturday – Goole AFC.

Retford United: Turner, Oldham, White, Ford, Chambers, Simpkins, Bettney, Fisher (Chappell), Godber, Harvey (Longstaff), Owens (Grimes).Subs Not Used: Duffield, Kingston.

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Potter, Wright, Smith P, Smith G, Fretwell, Roney, Muldoon, Copnell (Wainman), Outram, Woolley. Subs Not Used: Gelsthorpe, Dolby.

Att: 204

It turned out to be one of those days at the Bright Finance Stadium this afternoon, as Club turned in nothing short of a Jeckyll and Hyde performance, managing to snatch a defeat from a game that looked to be comfortably in the bag. After taking a well deserved two goal lead in the first half, following goals from Daz Winter, pictured left  (12^th minute) and Robert Cam (25^th minute), Sheffield seemed to fall into an amazing transformation with Dynamo hitting three in return against the subdued hosts. Callum Ross (28^th minute) pulled one back against the run of play in the first half, before they turned the screw in the second, turning things totally around with goals from Neil Morgan (67^th minute) and a belter from Lewis Allen (77^th minute).

Sheffield made a promising start to this game, and had no fewer than three clear cut chances in the first ten minutes, with the visitors rocking with the early pressure. The best of these came as Paul Smith put a free-kick to the back post, with Daz Winter heading straight at Matt Nurse in the Dynamo goal, whilst moments later Steve Woolley dug a ball out on the dead-ball line to cross to Stewart Copnell – whose shot was drilled into the ground and over the bar. On twelve minutes Club made the deserved breakthrough, as Woolley showed some great skill to retain possession before offloading to Matty Outram, and it was his chip across the goal that found WINTER available to head home from close range. The hosts never looked troubled at this stage and the control they had over the game seemed to suggest not only a win, but a convincing win at that, and midway through the half the added to their tally to emphasise that point of view. Again it was Steve Woolley who was at the centre of things, with his cross to the back post finding Daz Winter, who headed back across goal this time – and waiting to receive the easiest of nod-ins was CAM, to make it 2-0. Sheffield’s pressure seemed to be relentless, but after an attack broke down with Matt Nurse collecting the easiest of crosses, he was then able to launch it down field where ROSS was able to outmuscle Paul Smith and hit a volley beyond the diving Marc Furniss to give Loughborough an unlikely foothold in the game.

If the first half was an entertaining game of football, with Sheffield stroking the ball around confidently and composed, then the second half was the complete opposite – with the hosts looking nervous and disjointed. Loughborough weren’t exactly an attacking force, but neither were they under pressure, and soon enough they found the ability to break free of any mental shackles they had and started to put Club under the cosh. I suppose you could say the equaliser was against the run of play, but that would be unfair on Dynamo, as the substitute Lee Dawson found himself in acres of space before letting a shot go that Furniss could only palm into the path of MORGAN – giving the second substitute the easiest of finishes. Sheffield seemed well out of it now, and if there was going to be a winner, it was always going to be the visitors as the first half appeared to be long-forgotten by both sides. The winning goal; when it came was pretty special, as a ball into the box fell out as far as Lewis Allen, and after one neat little touch ALLEN let rip from 25 yards to give Furniss no chance. Eventually Club woke up, but not until it was too late, and started to throw bodies forward in an attempt to salvage something from the wreckage. With seconds to go a Steve Woolley cross was missed by everyone, in the middle waiting was Gavin Smith, but his shot went directly at Nurse – pretty much summing up the second half in its entirety.

This was probably one of the most disappointing displays by a Sheffield side this season; Club literally pummelled Loughborough in the first half (as they did at Nanpantan earlier in the season), yet failed to land the knock-out punch to grab all three points. As it turned out the dismal second half made the first totally forgettable, which is sad, especially as the quality of football on display in the opening half was as good (or better) as any this season. Luckily little rested on the outcome of this game, and manager Chris Dolby will be able to take his team into Tuesday’s game with plenty of positives from this defeat; hopefully managing ending up with a game with two first half performances.

BTF MotM - Steve Woolley

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Eagers (Gelsthorpe), Wright ©, P.Smith, G.Smith, Fretwell, Outram, Winter, Copnell (Muldoon), Cam (Cribley), Woolley.

Loughborough Dynamo: M.Nurse, Jenno, L.Plummer, Latham, Betts, Noble ©, J.Allen (Dawson), L.Allen, Ross (Edmands), Mason (Morgan), Moreira. Subs Not Used: Collis, B.Plummer.

Att: 355

Goole AFC 2 Sheffield FC 1

UniBond Division One South

Tuesday, 24/02/09

After the heady heights of hitting seven on Saturday, Club came down to earth with a bump this evening, losing 2-1 against a battling Goole AFC side. A goal each from Karl Rose (6^th minute) and Ben Spilman (23^rd minute) gave the Vikings a lead they were able to hang on to, with Jordan Eagers scoring from the penalty spot in the 70^th minute, seconds after missing another spot-kick. Sheffield finished the game the stronger of the two sides, and despite losing Daz Winter for a second yellow card, Goole were left hanging on to the death to ensure they were the ones who picked up the vital three points.

All eyes were on Stewart Copnell’s return to the VPG this evening following his controversial exit from the home club, but the home support had other things to occupy their minds early on, as in the 6^th minute the hosts were to take a pretty fortuitous lead. A Goole corner was cleared to the edge of the box where ROSE was lurking; he swung a hopeful shot at the ball which skewed skywards; however luck was on his side as it looped over Marc Furniss who could only claw it goalwards – and into the net. In all honesty after this there was little to choose between the two sides, with both involved in a terse midfield battle, with nothing like an opportunity looking likely. That was until midway through the half, as the ball fell out to SPILMAN at the edge of the area, and there was no doubting the quality of the strike which left Furniss with no chance of denying Goole a second goal. It was at this point that Sheffield came to life; Jordan Eagers made an excellent solo run that left defenders sprawling in his wake, the end product sadly was weak to say the least. Stewart Copnell also managed to get the better of the home defence, before shooting rather wayward, whilst Robert Cam was a little disappointed with his header from an Eagers’ cross that ended up a little too easy for Chris Hill in the hosts’ goal. The best chance to add to the scoring though came at the other end, as a wicked free-kick from Jeffs rattled the bar, with Steve Rollinson failing to get any purchase to tuck the rebound away.

If Sheffield were to get anything out of this game an early goal was imperative, and they thought they’d got one as Robert Cam forced a Matt Outram cross over the line, only for the assistant to rule it out for a marginal offside. Goole were always still a threat when they got the ball forward, and Ian McLean forced an excellent save from Furniss, who tipped the defenders’ 35-yard rasper round the post. Sadly as far as the hosts were concerned they were satisfied with the result as it stood, and resorted to some pretty unattractive football, hoofing the ball upfield at every given opportunity. But then as Sheffield pressed forward more frequently and in numbers, the game took a twist as the referee awarded a penalty for an infringement in the box – which one he picked was a mystery, as he had a choice of three trips to choose from. Up stepped Jordan Eagers with the spot kick, however his powerful effort cleared Hill and struck the bar, the rebound fell between Eagers and McLean – with the defender wrestling the Sheffield man to the ground. So seconds after the miss, EAGERS stepped up for a second attempt, this time a more considered attempt that found the back of the net. The controversy woke up the hosts somewhat, and the introduction of speedy substitute Regis Nvhambu livened them up some more, however the home support was appeased a little with the referee awarding Daz Winter a second yellow for an obstruction on Danny Buttle. Nvhambu caused concern down the right for Sheffield, and got behind the defence to set up Buttle who took the ball around Furniss to slot the ball towards an empty net, fortunately for Club Matt Outram was there to stop the ball crossing the line. The visitors managed to get the ball in the back of the net once again, with a sublime move from Eagers who crossed the ball in, Gav Smith flicked the ball on and Robert Cam steamed in at the back post to finish – again the assistant ruled it marginally offside, and with it went any chance of Club salvaging a point.

Sheffield were left ruing a bit of a slow start on this one, and once Goole had their noses safely in front, they set their stall out to launch the ball anywhere but the danger area. Not pretty it has to be agreed, but ultimately effective, and for that they cannot be blamed. The result takes the Vikings up to 15^th spot, and away from any danger, whilst Club drop to 17^th – although sitting a good fifteen points clear of relegation. Next up for Sheffield is a home game against Loughborough Dynamo, a team sitting in mid-table, who also lost tonight at Shepshed in the Leicestershire Westerby Cup.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Jordan Eagers

Goole AFC: C.Hill, Jeffs (Nvhambu), McLean, B.Hill ©, Siddall, Danby, Rollinson, Darker, Spilman (Beard), Rose (Tate), Buttle. Subs Not Used: Norbury, Osborne

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Eagers, Wright ©, P.Smith, G.Smith, Fretwell, Outram, Winter, Copnell, Muldoon (Cam), Woolley (Lipka). Subs Not Used: Dolby, Gelsthorpe.

Att: 141.

Two goals from Jordan Eagers plus strikes from Steve Woolley, Matt Outram, Stewart Copnell, Janni Lipka and an own goal to start proceedings saw Sheffield trounce Spalding this afternoon at the BFS. After Tuesday night's well earned point against second placed Belper Town Sheffield welcomed back Gav Smith and Stewart Copnell, making a belated home return debut from the bench, after suspension and there was also a place on the bench for Daz Winter finally recovered from injury.

On a bright sunny day Sheffield couldn't have asked for a better start as in their first real attack with just three minutes on the clock Woolley's cross from the by-line was missed by the keeper and as Outram and Kennedy went up for the ball it was KENNEDY who headed it into his own net, while Outram received treatment after heading the post! A minute later and Fretwell unleashed a shot from 25 yards which was just off target. Spalding were all at sixes and sevens as Muldoon then had Roberts diving full stretch to palm the ball away, closely followed by Cam having an effort saved by the keepers feet. There was very little respite for the visitors, as on a rare sortie forward French shot over when well placed. This was soon followed by Furniss having to make a good stop at his near post to smother a free kick. Back at the other end and the already overworked Roberts punched away a typical Paul Smith free kick with Woolley in close attendance. Spalding almost pulled level through Wormall when he slipped the ball past the advancing Furniss, but Paul Smith was on hand to clear the ball off the line. 'Smudge' was then in action again moments later, this time firing in a free kick just the wrong side of the post. Sheffield went further ahead in the 35th minute when a poor goal kick found Woolley, who in turn fed the ball through to EAGERS whose deft touch left Roberts rooted to the spot as the ball trickled into the corner of the net. Three minutes later and EAGERS was again on hand, this time firing home a penalty after handball by Goosey.

The game was over as a contest after just two minutes of the restart as Outram's cross from the wing found WOOLLEY who smashed the ball home from ten yards out. Spalding had substituted their keeper at the break, but his replacement (unknown) was already having a torrid time as Sheffield kept the visitors pinned back for long periods. The best goal of the game came on 53 minutes when man of the match OUTRAM picked the ball up just inside the opponents half, ran past three defenders and the keeper before slotting home from a tight angle. With Winter already on the field from the start of the second half, it was time to give the other two substitutes a run out as Copnell and Lipka entered the fray and it proved dividends as on 70 minutes Outram once again provided a teasing cross into the box, and as defender and keeper stood waiting for each other, COPNELL was in like a flash to poke the ball home. He almost doubled his own tally moments later when Lipka threaded the ball through to him, but as he slipped it past the keeper it was hacked away off the line. The scoring was completed when Eagers' quick thinking saw him take a quick free kick after being brought down, floating the ball into the area where LIPKA was on hand to fire home.

A comprehensive thrashing against what was a poor Spalding side, but it doesn't detract from the performance of the team, whose blend of youth and experience showed it could work. After all, you can only beat what's put in front of you, but it was good to see the team work for the full 90 minutes, never letting up, even though the result was never in danger. Next up is a trip to Goole on Tuesday night.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Matt Outram

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Gelsthorpe, Wright, P.Smith, G.Smith, Fretwell, Outram, Muldoon (Winter), Cam (Copnell), Eagers, Woolley (Lipka).

Spalding United: Roberts (McShane), Jones, Kennedy, Goosey, Foster, Young (Moore), Maddox (Duroe), Miller, Hughes, Wormall, French. Subs Not Used: O'Neill, McShane, A.N.Other.

Att: 304

Sheffield FC 1 Belper Town 1

UniBond Division One South

Tuesday, 17/02/09

Sheffield turned in a fantastic battling performance to deny championship hopefuls Belper all three points, at the Bright Finance Stadium this evening, holding the Derbyshire side to a creditable 1-1 draw. Robert Cam gave Club a well deserved lead ten minutes into the second period, after some excellent build up from Matt Outram, only for the Nailers to equalise midway through the half with an equally well worked goal from Ant Wilson with a Dean Oliver assist. The fact the game even went ahead was credit to the ground-staff, who had worked tirelessly to transform the pitch from a snow-bound tundra to a surface which – whilst difficult – was not even deemed necessary of an inspection.  But with this came a heavy track, making it difficult for both teams to play their natural game, however both sides will be simply happy to have got one more game from their respective backlogs cleared.

It wouldn’t have taken the biggest genius to work out that Belper were clear favourites for this one, given the table positions alone told a huge story, but with the Sheffield side having a massively makeshift look about it the visitors would have been expected to steamroller the hosts with ease. The early pattern of play certainly gave that impression, as Belper went forward with the confidence of a team that is pushing for honours, and in the 17^th minute they served notice of what to expect as they bundled the ball over the line – only to have the goal ruled out for an infringement in the goalmouth mêlée. Marc Furniss was making his league debut in the hosts’ goal - following Leigh Walker’s exit to Belper - and he proved himself to be a worthy replacement, making an excellent fingertip save from a James Colliver shot, turning the ball acrobatically over the bar. At the other end Walker was proving his worth, as Adam Fretwell put in an excellent ball to Robert Cam whose shot was well blocked by the big stopper, with Matty Outram’s rebound skewing wide of the post.

Both sides had shown plenty of endeavour in the first half, but neither had a goal to show for the efforts, but it didn’t take long after the restart for the deadlock to be broken – and surprisingly it was the hosts which grabbed the opener. Some great work down the right from Matt Outram turned Andy Rushbury inside out, the winger made enough space to whip in a telling cross, and in the middle CAM was there to slam home past Walker from close range. The game now saw Club in the ascendancy with Belper well and truly on the back-foot and in an almost identical fashion to the goal; Outram got the ball across to Andrew Potter, whose effort was tipped over the bar by Walker. Ironically Belper finally came into the game when the prolific Lee Stevenson was replaced on the hour by Dean Oliver, with the threat of the leading scorer gone it seemed Club relaxed a little and allowed Oliver that little extra space not afforded to Stevenson, and a wild shot seconds after from the substitute gave notice of what was to come. Moments later Oliver found himself in space on the right – and in similar circumstances to the Sheffield goal – the ball was crossed to WILSON, who took a little touch before lashing the ball beyond Furniss. Now it was Belper’s turn to be in charge and whilst they lay siege to the Sheffield goal, they were given a massive wake-up call that it wasn’t a one-way procession, as Club broke up the other end with Steve Woolley forcing a solid save from Leigh Walker. But the hero of the day was at the other end, as Marc Furniss repelled wave after wave of Nailers’ attacks, with some pretty impressive saves. Dean Oliver set up an opportunity for Ben Walker, Furniss did well to get well to get down to block his shot, then ex-Clubbie Peter Smith saw his header denied by the lively young keeper. The last chance for Belper came with a late goalmouth scramble, with Michael Harcourt getting his foot to the ball in the mêlée; once again Furniss was there to block the path to goal.

This was a well earned point for Sheffield, given the difficulties since the New Year, and one that came from a performance that Chris Dolby should be rightly proud of. Excuses could be made by the title chasing visitors around the state of the pitch, which to be fair held up remarkably well, but in truth it was the battling quality of the young Sheffield side that frustrated Belper – as they chased and harried every single ball. As far as this affects the table, the Nailers will be ruing the two points they potentially lost, whilst Club will find this is one earned to give that little bit of space between them and the potentially uncomfortable relegation zone. Sheffield will now go into Saturday’s battle with Spalding United knowing that a vital win is highly possible if they approach the game in a similar fashion to tonight, whilst Belper will be looking at the next two fixtures (away to Retford, then away to Stocksbridge) as a make or break period, if they are to end their twelve season spell in UniBond One.

BTF Club Man of the Match – Marc Furniss

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Eagers, Gelsthorpe, P.Smith, Wright ©, Fretwell, Outram, Muldoon, Cam (Lipka), Potter, Woolley. Subs Not Used. Cribley, Purkiss.

Belper Town: L.Walker, Colliver ©, Rushbury, Kotylo, Harcourt, Haigh, Hudson, Stevenson (Oliver), B.Walker, Hindley (P.Smith). Subs Not Used: Tracey, Litchfield, Carney.

Att: 335.

Rushall Olympic 3 Sheffield FC 2

UniBond League Division One South

Saturday, 31/01/09

Sheffield FC 0 Glapwell 4

UniBond Division One South

Tuesday, 27/01/09

A first half goal for Glapwell and a further three goals in a twenty minute second half period, saw the visitors record a resounding win in a poor game on a 'pudding' of a pitch.

Sheffield started in a positive mood, putting the Glapwell defence on the back foot from the off. Dolby hitting a Paul Smith free kick into the arms of Matthewson. The keeper then being fortunate when punching clear a Woolley corner, the ball rebounding off his own defender and he was able to reclaim the ball. The pitch was not conducive to good football, as it cut up pretty badly from the kick-off, resulting in both teams using long ball tactics for most of the time. What little football that was allowed was being done by Sheffield, who, although having the majority of possession were doing little with the final ball. Glapwell took the lead against the run of play when ex-Clubbie Roney was brought down to the right of the Sheffield area. The resulting free kick saw KENNEDY rise at the back post to head home. This seemed to stir the visitors into action as they started to take command of the game from then, Walker having to make a full length save from Shelley's shot. The hosts had a glorious chance to level the score a minute from the break when, in an attacking position Outram was fouled but the ref waved play-on and as the ball was put into the area Woolley was unmarked and he put the shot against the post with the goal at his mercy.

The second half saw the visitors on the attack again; Trimmer shooting well wide then has another chance, but heads over the bar. Varley was creating chances for Glapwell with his long throw too, one throw into the area found Roney whose shot was turned round the post by Walker from point blank range. Glapwell doubled the lead on the hour mark when some good interplay through the middle of the park saw the ball fed out to Roney, whose low cross was tapped in at close range by BROWN. Sheffield's first real threat of the half followed when Muldoon had a shot on the turn that Matthewson was able to palm down. With 70 minutes played the game was over as a contest as Glapwell grabbed their third goal when Walker's punched clearance fell to KENNEDY who headed the ball over the stranded keeper and into the net. Sheffield rallied a bit after this, but Glapwell's defence held firm. The visitors wrapped up the game with ten minutes left to play when a free kick on the edge of the area was drilled home by GRAYSON giving Walker no chance.

After Saturday's encouraging performance it was disappointing to see the same team create very little in terms of goalscoring chances against a side who were by no means as strong as Leek Town and looked vulnerable when put under pressure. Next up is a trip to Rushall Olympic.

BTF Man of the Match - Greg Wright

Sheffield FC: Walker, Eagers, P.Smith, G.Smith, Wright, Muldoon, Outram (Cribley), Thompson, Gordon, Dolby (Potter), Woolley. Sub Not Used: Gelsthorpe.

Glapwell: Matthewson, Darkin, Coward, Varley, Kennedy, Maguire, Trimmer (Fox), Shelley, Grayson, Brown, Roney (Kimberley). Subs Not Used: Wilson, Wright, Robinson.

Att: 221

Leek Town 2 Sheffield FC 2

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 24/01/09

Belper Town 3 Sheffield FC 0

UniBond League Division One South

Saturday, 17/01/09

Stocksbridge Park Steels 1 Sheffield FC 1

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 27/12/08

Sheffield FC 5 Hallam FC 1

Alan Cooper Memorial Cup

Tuesday, 23/12/08

Club ran out easy winners in the latest edition of the World’s Oldest Derby ™, with goals from Steve Woolley (3^rd minute), Vill Powell (11^th minute) and two from Mick Goddard (22^nd and 31^st minutes) wrapping the game up well before the half time whistle for the hosts. Hallam grabbed a consolation in the 75^th minute from Liam Allott, before Asa Ingall gave the game a convincing scoreline with a fifth for Sheffield a minute from time.

Sheffield FC: Walker, Gelsthorpe, P.Smith, G.Smith, Wright, Eagers, Outram, Lipka, Powell, Goddard, Wolley. Subs: Cribley, Ingall, Dolby.

Hallam FC: Taylor, Rowley, Fawcus, Clayton, Gayle, C.Smith, Hunter, O’Carroll, Ward, Bates, Patterson. Subs: Allott, Tevendale, Highfield, Jones, Elson.

Att: 200 (approx)

Carlton Town 3 Sheffield FC 3

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 20/12/08

Santa Claus was in town on Saturday, in Gedling to be precise, in the guise of the Sheffield FC defence, gifting Carlton Town two early goals from which Sheffield did superbly well to pull back, finally departing Carlton Town with their own present in the form of a hard worked point.

The Sheffield line up was pretty much the one that had battled back for a point at Grantham,  the only change arising from the suspension of Ben Leonard with Dan MacPherson dropping into a more central position, allowing Steve Woolley to move across to the left with Matt Outram returning to his usual right hand sided berth.

The contest was fairly even in the early stages but for some unexplained reason the visiting defence seemed to switch off on the quarter hour mark allowing first Fenton to put the home side into the lead, and then three minutes later Thomas doubled the advantage for the league leaders whilst the Sheffield defence simply opened up to gift the Carlton forward all the time and space he needed. At this point even yours truly was questioning the commitment of the side and seriously wondering what had happened to the heart of the team since Dave McCarthy had departed the Managers role. This question remained unanswered for a mere seven minutes as the Sheffield midfield, led by Captain Hawes, drove forward to first supply Marc Newsham with the opportunity to open his Sheffield goalscoring account with a near post knock in following a cross into the box, and then the same player doubled his tally getting a touch to another right wing cross to glance the ball across the face of the Town goal and more importantly the keeper, into the far corner of the net. A goal fest now beckoned but again it was the home side who all they seemed to need to do was attack to score, and this they did five minutes before the break through Gent. Normal service resumed ? Not quite, but three goals conceded from four efforts is a worrying statistic.

The second half was a very different story, with Club dominating large chunks of the play with their determined running, and causing the Carlton No 1 to have a very uncomfortable time of it. Newsham could and should have completed his hat-trick, hitting the bar in the process following Steve Woolley’s run and cross into the box. The on loan striker was clearly tiring and was replaced by another new boy making his first appearance, Jack Muldoon, the former Brigg man promptly putting himself about with the some very enthusiastic challenges. Sheffield were not to be denied, and the positive play brought it’s reward when Dan MacPherson headed home at the back post in the 75^th minute to put Club level. The drama wasn’t over however. Vill Powell made a welcome return from injury and looked like he’d never been away, even putting the ball in the net only to be adjudged offside. The last action saw the referee acting as Scrooge and deciding that the Carlton keepers ever so slight show of petulance in reacting to the request to move the ball back for a free kick worthy of a red card, and with that the game was over.

So, questions had been asked, and some answered. The worrying trend to concede goals continues but the forwards looked lively again and it augers well for an entertaining second half of the season. Stocksbridge on Boxing Day now awaits. Will the Manager stick with the same starting eleven or will he look to bolster the defence, and will Vill start ? We’ll soon know the answers.

Grantham Town 1 Sheffield FC 1

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 06/12/08

Sheffield gained a point this afternoon with a second half goal from Scott Partridge, despite playing for almost an hour with ten men after the dismissal of Ben Leonard for using his elbow in an attempt to win a header.

Sheffield started the game fielding two of the three new signings brought into the club this week, Marc Newsham and Dan MacPherson in action whilst Jack Muldoon was unavailable. It was the visitors who made the brighter start, putting the home side under pressure from the kick off. However it was Walker who had to make the first save of the afternoon, diving low at his near post to stop a shot from Brooks. Mellon then had a similar effort from the other side of the area, but his effort went wide of the far post. Sheffield responded with Leonard heading over from close range. On 25 minutes Wright lofted a ball into the Grantham area which was scrambled away, and then Newsham headed against the bar before the ball was eventually cleared. At this stage it looked liked the Gingerbreads were about to crumble but the game changed ten minutes later when Leonard was given a straight red for elbows as he challenged Mellon for a header. Despite being a man down it was still Sheffield who looked the more likely to score, Newsham bringing out a fine save from Scaithe as he volleyed in a cross from Woolley. The resulting corner saw Partridge nudge the ball goalwards only to see it kicked off the line by Pemberton.

The home side made two substitutions before the start of the second half with Hargreaves and Brown replacing Mallinson and Pemberton. Five minutes after the restart Brooks again went close when his free kick just cleared the bar with Walker at full stretch. Sheffield again came back strong as Partridge got the better of two defenders before the ball found MacPherson who created space and had a great opportunity to crown his debut with a goal but he blazed his shot over the bar. At the other end Walker had to get down quickly saving a shot from Sturgess. Although Grantham were now having a bit more possession, the visitors were working hard to close them down and still creating chances of their own.

Grantham were starting to get desperate at their lack of success in breaking down a resolute Sheffield side, none more so than Mellon who bundle MacPherson over with a hefty challenge. Quick thinking from Paul Smith saw him take the free kick whilst everyone was setting themselves up, catching Scaithe way off his line but the effort was just over the bar to save the keeper's blushes. The visitors took a deserved lead on 63 minutes when Hawes was brought down on the edge of the area. Paul Smith drove the ball goalwards and, despite the announcer crediting the goal to him, the ball was actually touched home by PARTRIDGE says this reporter, who was right in line with the play. Newsham then made way for Micky Goddard. Despite only having ten men, Sheffield strived for another goal, MacPherson's shot being somewhat acrobatically saved by Scaithe. Grantham threw on Zeurner for Turner for the last twelve minutes or so in a bid to salvage something for the home side. Mellon was then penalized for an unwanted challenge on Walker, when the keeper was clearly in control of the ball, the referee finally deciding that a yellow card was warranted. With ten minutes left the Sheffield defence was finally breached, as a cross from the left found ZEURNER unmarked on the edge of the area and his snapshot found the bottom corner of the net. Sheffield replaced Partridge with Outram for the remainder of the game, as both sides went in search of a winner, Grantham probably thinking their man advantage may prove fruitful, but that was nullified when Mellon got a straight red card for a challenge on Gavin Smith. The last action of note saw Walker save from Hargreaves, who almost stole all the points for the Gingerbreads, which would have been an injustice on the balance of play.

Overall it was a well earned point, but things may well have been different if we had not played for almost an hour with ten men. However, the team worked well to get the point and sound debuts from both the newcomers into the side. There's now a full free week until we entertain Loughborough Dynamo here next Saturday.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Steve Woolley

Grantham Town: Scaithe, Pemberton (Brown), Brooks, Mellon, Stubbs, Sturgess, Lister, Robinson, Knowles, Turner (Zeurner), Mallinson (Hargreaves). Unused subs: White, A.Goddard.

Sheffield FC: Walker, Wright, P.Smith, G.Smith, Haggerty, Leonard, Woolley, Hawes, Newsham (M.Goddard), Partridge (Outram), MacPherson. Unused subs: Winter, Lipka, Gelsthorpe.

Att: 196

Sheffield FC 5 North Ferriby United 2

UniBond League Cup 3^rd Round

Tuesday, 25/11/08

Sheffield turned in a much improved performance from Saturday, this evening at the Bright Finance Stadium, underlining the Jeckyll and Hyde nature of recent weeks. Tonight they produced an entertaining and convincing 5-2 victory over a young North Ferriby outfit, with Scott Partridge leading the way with a hat-trick, aided by goals from Steve Woolley and Daz Winter. The East Yorkshire side made a great game of it, with goals from Peter Davidson and Alex Davidson, before fading in the final moments.

It was clear from the off that Club had attacking intentions in mind, making a bright start, with Daz Winter, Mick Goddard, Jordan Eagers and Steve Woolley all going close as the hosts began on top. Scott Partridge had the ball in the back of the net on twenty minutes, after some great work from Greg Wright and Steve Woolley found the Sheffield front-man; only for the linesman to rule offside. Steve Hawes also produced a fine save from Mark Wilberforce, whilst the best Ferriby could produce was a wayward effort from Colin Hunter; however on 33 minutes the visitors pulled a goal from nowhere and completely against the run of play. David Haggerty was caught in possession by Alex Davidson, and after taking the ball a few yards DAVIDSON finished with aplomb, making it look too easy. But that lead only lasted five minutes, as Scott Partridge burst down the left wing, before drilling in a cross that WOOLLEY drove under the hand of Wilberforce and into the net. Club could have taken the lead almost immediately, as Paul Smith’s free-kick being met by Daz Winter in the middle, with the header scraping just wide of the post. The Villagers couldn’t keep Sheffield out for too long and just before the interval Club were rewarded for their attacking play, although it looked as though Steve Hawes would be the one to score from Steve Woolley’s corner, only to see Danny Moore clear off the line – but as the scramble continued PARTRIDGE kept his composure to strike the ball into the net, albeit deflected off the backside of Sam Denton. Even so North Ferriby still had time to give Sheffield a little scare before the interval, as Colin Hunter showed a neat touch to lift the ball over Lloyd Gelsthorpe, with his shot flashing across the face of the goal and just wide of the mark.

An injury to one of the linesmen saw Sheffield under 19s Guru Phil Wymer step into the action in his place, and to his credit performed excellently and without bias. On the pitch Club looked to carry on where they left off in the first half, with Paul Smith having a free-kick tipped over the bar by Mark Wilberforce, whilst some excellent play by Jordan Eagers set up Scott Partridge with a header that should have found the target. It seemed though that Sheffield’s inability to finish the chances would cost them dear, as North Ferriby came back into the game as expected, and on the hour they deservedly drew level. Colin Hunter found some space on the left, before putting the ball square across goal to Peter Davidson, and without breaking stride DAVIDSON slammed the ball home for his first of the season. If anything though this served as a bit of a wake up call for the hosts and after this there was no living with them, although Leigh Walker had to be on top form first with a fine double save, after Alex Davidson had hit the home side on the break. On 74 minutes though Sheffield got the lead they warranted, with Jordan Eagers through ball finding PARTRIDGE, who beat the offside trap to slot comfortably under Wilberforce. That was the last action for Eagers, who’d had an enterprising night on the field, as he pulled up with what looked like a hamstring pull. With two minutes to go it was all made safe for Sheffield, as a fantastic ball from Greg Wright found PARTRIDGE once again, and this was an opportunity too good to waste for the prolific striker who gleefully grabbed his hat-trick goal – and his SEVENTH in this competition. To wrap things up over a weary looking North Ferriby side, Sheffield grabbed a fifth following some great play from Scott Partridge and Ted Cribley, setting up WINTER with the chance to drive the ball home from eighteen yards.

Sometimes too much is made in these competitions regarding who’ve played a full-strength side and who haven’t; looking at Sheffield it was clear to see this was as near as damn-it to the best available team, North Ferriby on the other hand had a fair smattering of a “mixture”. But following on from the poor showing on Saturday, this was a game that needed winning – and needed winning well – and that is exactly what the Club outfit did, winning a very entertaining contest against an entertaining opposition in a very entertaining fashion. The one downside though was the attendance, the lowest at the Bright Finance Stadium for three years, obviously not aided by the cold weather and competition from televised Champions’ League football and Sheffield United playing at home. Hopefully those who stayed away will be back in droves on Saturday for the home game against Lincoln United, and Club will put in a display more in tune with tonight’s, rather than the regrettable one witnessed at home to Brigg the previous weekend.

BTF Club Man of the Match – Scott Partridge

Sheffield FC: Walker, Gelsthorpe, P.Smith, Wright, Haggerty, Winter, Eagers (Cribley), Hawes ©, Goddard, Partridge, Woolley. Subs Not Used: Lipka, Purkiss, G.Smith, McKenzie.

North Ferriby United: Wilberforce, Moore, Frizzell, Denton, Bloor, Morvey © (Diawarra), P.Davidson, A.Davidson, Russell, Hunter. Subs Not Used: Chapman, Bradshaw, Jackson, Wilson.

Att: 110

Stamford 2 Sheffield FC 2

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 15/11/08

Honours even at the Vic Couzens Stadium this afternoon with Club having been just six minutes away from completing the double over one of last seasons relegated sides from the Unibond Premier Division. In defence Sheffield fielded work experience signing David Haggerty from Rotherham United.

In overcast conditionsand with a light drizzle, the opening exchanges were most notable for the tenth minute booking of Mickey Goddard, after the determined front man floored Stamford's Sheehan in  a challenge for a high ball. The defender having to leave the field twice before returning with his head heavily bandaged.

In the 17th minute Leigh Walker was penalised on the edge of his penalty area but Cotton's resulting free kick was well over and wide. However, Stamford were seeing more of the ball at this stage and four minutes later  home pressure from a corner eventually led to Kirk finding himself with acres of room on the right hand side of the box. The wingers cross found the head of the unmarked Pearson in the six yard box  and the centre back scored with ease. Club responded immediately and from the bye line Steve Woolley found Steve Hawes on the edge of the penalty area and the skippers driven shot was tipped over at full stretch by home keeper Davies. Next up was Stamford midfielder Gray shooting just wide of the goal from distance. 

In the 28th minute Sheffield were back in the game and Steve Woolley was again provider, dummying two men on the byeline, the wingers cross evading the attempted flick header of Goddard at  the near post but not Outram at the back of the six yard box. The right winger appearing to be caught off balance and having to stretch to reach the ball but finding enough purchase to steer his shot back towards the far side of the goal and into the net, with the keeper flat footed and firmly rooted to the spot. It was almost end to end stuff at this stage and a sweeping move from Stamford, which saw the referee waving play on after a hefty challenge on the right wing, ended with the ball being swept across to the opposite side of the pitch for Kirk. Not for the first time this season, Club were leaving themselves exposed on the right flank and the little No 11 almost made the visitors pay. Walker rushing out in an attempt to smother the ball found himself beaten and Kirk's shot was cleared off the line by Cochrane, the Sheffield defender injuring himself in the process.

Although the home side were probably having the better of the first half exchanges on the stroke of half time Sheffield found themselves in front. Goddard did well to dig the ball out from under his feet to lay the ball across the edge of the area to find Scott Partridge, and the experienced former Football League striker held off the challenge of his marker whilst deftly flicking the ball over the body of the onrushing Davies to score with aplomb.

The second half started in an almost similar fashion to the first, with Goddard again involved in some physical play with Sheehan. The resulting Sheffield free kick whistling past the post with just a touch needed. Again, the game was becoming end to end with short spells of home pressure and bursts of counter attacking from the visitors. Another foul on Mick Goddard by Sheehan saw Steve Hawes free kick easily cleared whilst at the other end Leigh Walker had to receive treatment after being forced to stretch to tip over a Stamford cross. On the hour mark Sheffield had a golden opportunity to increase their lead. The ball was ricocheting around the Sheffield penalty area with the home side unable to get a clean strike in on goal. The ball eventually being cleared to Scott Partridge on the half way line, the Sheffield hitman racing clear and putting himself one on one with Davies, this time though the onrushing keeper was able to spread himself big enough to save the No 10's flicked shot and the opportunity was lost. Eight minutes later and again Partridge was close, this time getting a firm glancing header to Outram's cross, the ball though flying just over the bar. Stamford appeared to rally from this point. Manager Dolby seemingly deciding he needed extra bodies in midfield at this point, and introduced Jordan Eagers at the expense of Scott Partridge. However,this strategy was quickly undone with six minutes remaining as Cochrane was forced into conceding a free kick on the edge of the box, the resulting free kick from Cotton finding the head of the unmarked Stebbing to head home. The home side might well have won it in stoppage time as Clarke failed to connect properly when presented with a relatively easy header in front of goal, but overall a draw was probably a fair result. Club probably could have had the match sown up midway through the second half but this failure meant Stamford were always in it and their persistence paid off and defeat would probably have been unfair on the home side. There again, when has football ever been fair ???!!!

Next up, back to Cup action on Tuesday in the last remaining knock out competition that Sheffield retain an interest this season. The Unibond League Cup, and the visitors to The Bright Finance Stadium being Durham City.

BTF Club Man of the Match: David Haggerty

Stamford: Davies, Steadman, White (Cunnington), Sheehan, Pearson, Oswin (Watson), Cotton, Gray, Clarke, Stebbing, Kirk. Subs Not Used: Taylor, Hallows, Collis.

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, Davey, Haggerty, Cochrane, Winter, Outram (Roney), Hawes ©, Goddard, Partridge (Eagers), Woolley. Sub Not Used: Gelsthorpe, Lipka, Mitchell.

Att: 264

Halifax Town 3 Sheffield FC 1 (after extra time)

UniBond Presidents Cup Round Two

Tuesday, 11/11/08

A brave performance was not enough for the young Sheffield outfit at the Shay tonight, as extra time proved to be just a bit too far for them, with two late goals giving Halifax a win that takes them through to meet Retford in the next round of the President’s Cup. Fielding a side that contained just a handful of regular first teamers, and bolstered by the cream of some of Sheffield FC’s young talent from the reserves and academy, the visitors gave an excellent account of themselves and almost pulled off a surprise victory to boot. A deft chip from Matt Roney had given Club the lead five minutes into the second half, and it looked to have been enough against a Halifax side that had failed to impress, but an 82^nd minute goal from substitute Junior Brown took the game into extra time – and as time, injury and fatigue took its toll on the makeshift side, Town saved their blushes by avoiding a penalty shootout with two goals in the last five minutes of play from Danny Ellis and Ashley Stott.

Whilst the opening period was a lively affair, it came as little surprise that both sides walked into the dressing rooms without a goal to show for their 45 minutes of toil, with both sides promising lots – but delivering little in the final quarter. Matt Roney was the first to test a keeper, with his drive from the edge of the area being tipped over the bar by Craig Ellison in the first few moments of the game, although after that the game developed into something of an end-to-end pattern with not a great deal to show for some good passages of play from both sides. Halifax’s Danny Ellis was making his mark on the right flank, and he nearly created the opener with a great sprint down the wing crossing into Kris King, who – despite being unmarked and with the goal at his mercy – failed to control the ball. Marc Furniss had little to do for much of the half, but when he was called into action he was more than up to the task and he took quite a knock for his bravery when diving at the feet of Kris King, and whilst everyone was waiting for the referee to stop play the ball fell to Jonathon Smith whose effort was weak to say the least. Halifax looked dangerous on the attack, but surprisingly delicate at the back especially given their collective experience, and Jordan Eagers nearly capitalised on this fragility by whipping in a cross that would have most certainly produced a goal if young Joel Purkiss had got more of a touch on it.

The second half proved to be more fruitful as far as goals were concerned, as within three minutes of the restart Club had the lead, with RONEY chipping over Ellison from the most acute of angles from twenty yards out. It could be argued that the goal had gone against the pattern of play, but with their noses now in front it was Sheffield who were bossing proceedings, with Ellison coming to the Shaymen’s rescue moments later as he stopped a Jordan Eagers stinger. It was clear that if Halifax wanted to get anything from this one they would have to throw men forward and some very attacking minded substitutions started to turn the tide some way, but Furniss was proving to be quite an obstacle for Halifax, as he did excellently to stop a shot from Tom Baker with Ashley Stott missing the rebound under some strong defensive pressure. Sheffield still had the opportunity to kill the game, as Luke Hinsley was tamely disposed by Joel Purkiss who squared the ball into Matt Roney; unfortunately his shot was well stopped by Craig Ellison with the rebound skewing over the top. With time running out and the Shaymen running out of ideas, it looked as if Club had done enough, but with eight minutes left the hosts got the goal they needed to take the game into extra-time. Some neat interplay between Tom Baker and Junior Brown saw the ball fall invitingly to the attacking midfield substitute, and with only Furniss to beat, BROWN picked his spot to give the keeper no chance. Even then Halifax should have snatched it, with both Danny Ellis and Paul Gedman denied by the heroics of the Sheffield keeper, and with the rain now bucketing it down the game dragged on into the inevitable extra time.

The worry for Sheffield was that the youngsters’ tired legs wouldn’t hold out, and when Greg Wright hobbled off moments into the restart to give Chris Dolby his first appearance of the season, it looked like the task might be a bit too much. What followed was a bit of a siege on the visitors’ goal, with Club offering a bit up front, but never really testing Ellison. The writing looked to be on the wall midway through the first period of extra-time, as Junior Brown’s cross was hammered home by Kris King, only for the referee to rule it out for offside. Penalties almost looked inevitable as Sheffield seemed to be riding their luck successfully, with two efforts early in the second period being cleared off the line, but with five minutes to go that luck ran out as Halifax finally made the breakthrough. Ashley Stott put in a telling cross, one that picked out Danny Ellis on the penalty spot, and ELLIS caught the ball with a sweet volley that had Furniss stumped. Moments later the score was given a flattering look for the hosts, as a quickly taken free-kick found Ashley Stott in a position that looked suspiciously offside, but with very few protests STOTT took the ball round Furniss to kill a game in which the visitors had given more than their all – and impressed many onlookers to boot.  

BTF Club Man of the Match: Matt Roney.

Halifax Town: Ellison, Coo, King (Brown), Adams, Barras ©, Hinsley, Gill (Phelan), Baker, Stott, Smith (Gedman), Ellis. Subs Not Used: Kennedy, Meadowcroft.

Sheffield FC: Furniss, Gelsthorpe, Davey, Wright (Dolby), Lipka, Eagers, Cribley, Hawes © (G.Smith), Purkiss, Roney, Outram (Woolley).

Att: 382.

Kidsgrove Athletic 0 Sheffield FC 2

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 08/11/08

Sheffield got back to winning ways this afternoon, at Hollinwood Road, overcoming a determined Kidsgrove outfit 2-0 and still having a bit to spare. In a game that Club always under control, goals from Greg Wright (his first since returning to Sheffield) in the 37^th minute and Steve Wolley in the 75^th minute saw the visitors home, with the home side never really testing Leigh Walker at all. There were a couple of moments of controversy in the game, as Kidsgrove had vehement protests waved away for an alleged penalty, whilst the visiting keeper Walker was involved in a little disturbance at the end of the game following some intolerable abuse from the home support.

The game had a lively opening as Club were kicking down the slope, with Scott Partridge having the first effort of the game, shooting just over the bar from thirty yards out. Athletic responded in a bit of style, with Aiden Matranga’s cross being unconvincingly out by Leigh Walker; however with the goal gaping Dave Shaw headed embarrassingly wide. It was end-to-end at this stage, and some great inter-play by Matt Outram and Greg Wright set the ball up nicely for Jez Mitchell, with his side-footed effort going just wide. With both teams settling into their desired pattern of play, the game died somewhat, with neither side creating anything of real note. But with half time approaching, Kidsgrove went close with an attempt from 25 yards, as Adam Beasley hooked his shot pretty close. But any thoughts that this heralded any period of domination for the hosts were soon dispelled, as Club went down the other end and promptly stuck the ball in the back of the net, with WRIGHT driving a sweet strike that beat Intihar to go into the net off the inside of the post from thirty yards.

It took quite some time for the game to come to any sort of life after the restart, and neither side troubled either end for the first twenty minutes of the half, with Club looked comfortable to say the least. As the half progressed though, Kidsgrove pressed down the slope more often, and Leeroy Cochrane had to be at his very best with a last-ditch tackle on Andy Hurst denying the forward an effort on goal. Seconds later there were mass protests from the hosts claiming a penalty, with the linesman waving all claims away for a dive, and the Kidsgrove players picking up a couple of yellow cards for the troubles. But as the home side felt hard done to, the visitors in turn stepped up a gear, with the traditional introduction of Matt Roney adding an injection of pace for the hosts to deal with. With a quarter of an hour to go the visitors’ pace undid the home defence’s offside trap, Daz Winter played a long ball over the top, and it was WOLLEY that raced through from his own half to calmly pick his moment to slip the ball past Intihar. That was it as far as the game went, Club simply held possession until the final whistle, with no frights or scares before the end.

This was a win that Sheffield needed, and it didn’t matter which way it came, with this being an effective if rather unspectacular performance. But the three points make little difference as far as the table is concerned, but as far as confidence goes, this win is worth loads. One little unsavoury aspect to the game was the events at the final whistle, with the normally placid Leigh Walker getting involved in a regrettable incident with a section of the home “support”, after the “banter” went too far. Overall though this was small blight on an otherwise excellent day for the Sheffield side, pushing the memory of last season’s corresponding defeat far to the back of the mind, giving a bit of optimism for Tuesday’s upcoming trip to the Shay for the cup-tie against Halifax.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Scott Partridge

Kidsgrove Athletic: Intihar, D.Smith ©, Dove, Schwartz, Reeves, Beasley, Matranga, Miller (Shenton), Shaw (Elder), Hurst, Sanders. Subs Not Used: Bridge, Leigh, C.Smith.

Sheffield FC: Walker, Wright, Davey, G.Smith, Cochrane, Winter (Lipka), Outram, Hawes ©, (Eagers), Mitchell (Roney), Woolley. Sub Not Used: Dolby.

Att: 170

A first half strike from Cockerill plus two further goals after the break from Ring and Normanschild were enough for Stocksbridge to loosen the cup holders grip on the trophy for this season (writes Trev).

On a damp and dismal night at Bracken Moor, made all the worse by a swirling fog, Stocksbridge got revenge for their Semi-final exit last season in the league play-offs. In somewhat farcical conditions for the hundred plus supporters who bothered to turn up it was a case of Chinese whispers as, unless you were actually on the half way line AND had a recent meal of carrots it was impossible to see from one end of the pitch to the other. Stocksbridge started the better and soon had the visitors under pressure and took a deserved lead on 10 minutes when COCKERILL fired home from the edge of the area. It took Sheffield another ten minutes until they finally settled into their stride with the return of both Goddard and Partridge causing problems for the home defence, before a typical Paul Smith free kick was cleared away. In fact, at this stage, it was the visitors who looked the more composed and Goddard was unlucky when his shot was tipped over the bar by Hewitt. At the back Pete Davey and the impressive Micah Bleau were containing the free running Steels forwards. Just after the half hour mark Sheffield again went close when good movement in the middle of the park saw the home defence carved open and Eagers had a shot that was well saved by Hewitt. With two minutes to go to the break the visitors were forced into a substitution when Paul Smith seemed to 'tweak' something when challenging for the ball, Lloyd Gelsthorpe slotting into his left back position. Winter then had a shot that was wide of the mark when a pass to the unmarked Goddard would have been the better option. Calamity struck Sheffield on the stroke of half time as Winter was then shown a second yellow (having been booked earlier) for what I gathered was dissent, although it was difficult to see from my vantage point.

The second half saw Matt Roney replace Goddard up front. As expected, Sheffield were finding it tough to break forward and were also wary of leaving space at the back now they were a man short and the Steels defence were containing what attack they could muster at this stage. Sheffield's task was made all the harder on 54 minutes when RING was on hand to put Stocksbridge further in front. The visitors were now in a situation where they needed to be bold and attack as they had nothing left to lose and Woolley was introduced at the expense of Lipka. Sheffield were handed a lifeline when they were handed a penalty with fifteen minutes left to play after Partridge was fouled. With both Goddard and Paul Smith now on the sidelines it was Partridge himself who took the kick, only to see Hewitt dive the right way to push the ball away to safety. Sheffield's misery was complete on 85 minutes when NORMANSCHILD added the third goal for the home side and so dump the holders out of this year’s competition.

Overall it was a vast improvement on Saturday's performance, but the statistics will still read that we have now been knocked out of three cup competitions in just over a fortnight and have now suffered our fourth straight defeat on the trot. Even I can't remember the last time that happened. Next up is a difficult trip to Kidsgrove on Saturday in search of league points and let's hope for a change in fortune and a return to winning ways.

BTF Club Man of the Match - Micah Bleau

Stocksbridge PS: Hewitt, Adams, Stratford, Normanschild, Lovell, Ashley (Wilkinson), Ring (Sidebottom), Telling (Richards), Vardy, Ward, Cockerill. Subs Not Used: Siddall, Schofield,

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, P.Smith (Gelsthorpe), Bleau, Davey, Winter, Outram, Lipka (Woolley), Goddard (Roney), Partridge, Eagers. Subs Not Used: Dolby

Att: 110 

Gresley came to the Bright Finance Stadium this afternoon and took advantage of an under-strength Sheffield outfit, gaining ample revenge for the opening day mauling, without having to turn in an impressive performance of their own. The damage was done in a fifteen minute spell in the opening period, with Louis Briscoe grabbing a hat-trick of goals, in a half that saw Rovers convert every chance that fell their way. Goals in the 11^th, 16^th and 27^th minutes all but gave the visitors the three points, with Club’s solitary reply coming from a Peter Davey effort in the 25^th minute. David Blenkinsopp grabbed his customary goal ten minutes into the second half, killing off any threat Sheffield might have given, making Club’s cup hangover all the more painful.

The Sheffield team-sheet raised more than a couple of eyebrows in the ground before the game, containing just eight of the squad that made the trip to the Moat Ground in August; with Scott Partridge, Steve Hawes and Asa Ingall notable absentees through injury, whilst Mick Goddard was missing due to suspension. This meant a first start for Jordan Eagers, with new signing Jez Mitchell going straight into the starting line-up up front, and the opening signs looked promising from this duo as they created quite a bit of pressure on a shaky looking Gresley back line. But this proved to be a false dawn as with the first real attack the visitors created ended in a goal, as a cross from the left was missed by everyone in the middle, leaving BRISCOE the easiest of tasks at the back to sweep the ball home from the edge of the six yard box. It got worse for Club moments later, as Gresley gained easy possession in midfield laying the ball to BRISCOE, and buoyed by the confidence of his strike a few minutes earlier struck the ball from 25 yards beyond a despairing Walker. It would be harsh to say that the visitors were two goals better than Club at this stage, they had two chances and converted them both, but Club were given a ray of hope ten minutes later as Eagers dribbled the ball into the middle to DAVEY who placed the ball excellently into the corner. Sadly that hope was extinguished by some lacklustre play down the left side of defence that allowed BRISCOE to skip into the box, weigh up his options and slide the ball across Walker and into the net, leaving the hosts more than a mountain to climb. It appeared there could be a chance of getting something back, as Club’s best player Peter Davey set up Steve Woolley with a shot that stung Lee Evans’ hands, whilst just before the interval Paul Smith’s free-kick produced the save of the half from Evans.

Club came out in the second half eager to make amends for the first half showing, and came close to pulling one back through a Paul Smith free-kick, this time it was deflected wide of the goal. The game was effectively wrapped up as Briscoe turned provider with a cross field ball, and with the Sheffield defence stopping and waving for offside, BLENKINSOPP had time and space to finish with aplomb. Even with over thirty minutes to go Club offered nothing of note, with the chances created hardly giving a pretty ordinary looking Rovers side much to worry about, the best of which came through Matt Roney’s little through ball that was flicked on by Matt Outram inches wide of the post. Daz Winter tried to force Evans into earning his wage, with his volley being tipped over by the keeper, whilst Roney’s corner beat everyone and hit the post. Gresley had already done enough, and the only thing of true note created by the visitors before the end was a little chip by skipper Carl Slater, one that produced an excellent save by Leigh Walker. Overall though the game had died an early death, with the home support was heading for the exits long before referee Whiteley blew the final whistle to put the remaining few out of their misery, and giving the handful of Gresley supporters the chance to celebrate what had seemed on paper an unlikely result.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Peter Davey

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith ©, P.Smith, Cochrane (Gelsthorpe), Wright, Winter, Outram, Davey, Eagers (Roney), Woolley (Cribley). Subs Not Used: Lipka, Purkiss.

Gresley Rovers: Evans, Chamberlain, Morris, Wooley, Hood, Slater ©, Woodall, Barrett, Briscoe (Lyons), Blenkinsopp (Lock), Edwards (Wilson). Subs Not Used: Liversage, Saunders.

Att: 384.

Guiseley 3 Sheffield FC 3

FA Cup Third Round Qualifying

Saturday, 11/10/08

It was an absolutely amazing game at Nethermoor this afternoon, as Sheffield turned around a three goal half time deficit to force a replay on Tuesday night at the Bright Finance Stadium, with one of the bravest comebacks in recent years. With Club looking totally down and out of the FA Cup for another year, after the Lions raced into a seemingly unassailable lead with goals from Chris Ovington and two from Dave Brown, but things started to go terribly wrong after Simeon Bambrook saw red for a daft challenge on Mick Goddard. Sheffield came out of the blocks in the second half, and inspired by young substitute and man-of-the-match Andy Gascoigne, replied with goals from Scott Partridge, Matt Outram and Gavin Smith to take the tie to a replay.

The pattern of the game was hard to imagine in the first moments of the game, as Sheffield were the first on the offensive with James Cotterill’s trip on Mick Goddard being penalised on the edge of the area, and the subsequent free-kick from Gavin Smith deflected over. From the resultant corner by Steve Wolley, Asa Ingall was the one who rose highest, heading the ball just over the bar. From here to the break it became one way traffic, as Gavin Smith became the perpetrator of a similar tripping offence on the edge of the box on Phil Denny, this time Simeon Bambrook drove the ball into the wall, Sean Taylforth had his follow-up effort blocked before Chris Bolder forced a fine save from Leigh Walker. On eleven minutes there was little Walker could do to prevent Club falling behind, as OVINGTON skipped two tackles, and as his momentum was maintained he drilled the ball into the corner of the net. The goal spurred the Lions on to an all-out assault on the Sheffield goal, and when Ovington’s cross-field ball picked out Taylforth at the back un-marked, his effort was just too high. Guiseley could have doubled their lead seconds later, as Phil Denny cushioned the ball down to Dave Brown; once again Leigh Walker had to be on top form to prevent a certain goal. Club had a chance to get level – albeit against the run of play – as a Steve Hawes free-kick found Matt Outram at the back post, he in turn squared the ball to Scott Partridge, who uncharacteristically scooped the ball over the top from very close range. That miss was punished in the most severe way possible, as the hosts went down the other end and scored after a long ball found BROWN, and the little striker turned Ingall before slotting into the corner beyond Walker. It could have been so much worse for Sheffield if it hadn’t have been for some wasteful finishing by Guiseley’s front men, with Chris Ovington and Sean Taylforth the guilty parties, whilst Leigh Walker produced another fine stop to deny Dave Brown and Simeon Bambrook had an effort blocked on the line. Ten minutes before the break the home side made it three to wrap up the game as a contest; as Taylforth got in behind the defence on the left, before giving BROWN the easiest of opportunities to hook the ball home. So much were Guiseley in control it seemed everyone wanted a piece of the action, with Anthony Lloyd trying one from fully 35 yards that went just wide, and Chris Ovington forcing yet another good save from Leigh Walker. Two minutes from the break though things started to go badly wrong for the West Yorkshire outfit, as Simeon Bambrook inexplicably lashed out and kicked Mick Goddard in the midriff, leaving the referee very little option but to show the red card.

The next 45 minutes can only be described as “unbelievable”, as Sheffield turned what had been hoped to be a damage limitation exercise, into one of the greatest comebacks of the past decade for the South Yorkshire side. Three early substitutions from the visitors gave a much more attacking look to the whole scheme of things, with Guiseley seemingly quite happy to sit on the lead they’d built, letting Sheffield come at them – albeit with very little success with the end product. Then just after the hour mark young substitute Andy Gascoigne pulled out a cross from the right, when nothing seemed on, and picked out PARTRIDGE in the middle who headed through the hands of Polish keeper Piotr Skiba. Club had a lifeline and proceeded to assault the hosts’ goal in the same manner they’d been subjected to in the first period, with Asa Ingall forcing Skiba the keeper to make a save from a typical header, whilst a half cleared free-kick found the head of Gav Smith who headed just over. Matt Roney held the ball up for Mick Goddard to shoot just wide, and then Roney himself forced a nervous save from Skiba second later, before the breach was finally broken in the 71^st minute. Another break down the right hand side saw Partridge pick up the ball, planting in an inch perfect cross to pick out OUTRAM, who dived in to head beyond the despairing Skiba. Full credit to Guiseley at this point, as they realised the situation they found themselves in, and started to take the sting out of the game. But they couldn’t do it forever; and with ten minutes to go Steve Woolley’s corner beat every defensive head, and picked out that of SMITH who placed it into the back of the net – the comeback was complete. But seconds after the restart the visitors’ hearts were back in their mouths, as the ball fell to Chris Bolder fully 25 yards from goal, he let loose a thunderous shot that nearly snapped the bar in two. It would have been a real fairy-tale finish if Club could have got that vital fourth goal, and when Steve Woolley set the ball back to Gav Smith it looked like that was a possibility, sadly the ball sailed inches over – and with it the draw became the result.

It’s a long time since we’ve experienced such a wild array of emotions at a game of such importance at Sheffield, and even before the game many would have taken the draw, let alone at half-time. Sadly it could be argued that today’s game hinged on the sending off of Bambrook for his mind-numbing reckless challenge on Goddard, but to be honest all it did was to spur Club on with the hope that the game could end up respectable, whilst Guiseley felt they had done enough in that glorious first 45 minutes. The thing is Sheffield could have gone on to take the game, and yet equally if they’d have taken all of their chances in the first half, we could be talking about how Guiseley had been a class above Club and fully deserved such a heavily scored victory. But it ended a draw, the replay is back at the Bright Finance Stadium on Tuesday, and if it could be guaranteed to be as dramatic in that game – well, we’ll be turning people away.

Guiseley: Skiba, Lloyd, Merris, Bolder, Cotterill ©, Bambrook, Ovington (Higman), Burton (Whitehouse), Brown, Denny (Camfield), Taylforth. Subs Not Used: Tiani, Husband.

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, Davey (Roney), Ingall, Wright, Winter (Gascoigne), Outram, Hawes © (Eagers), Goddard, Partridge, Woolley. Sub Not Used: Furniss.

Att: 431

That would have wrapped up the game by rights for Sheffield, but an early flurry from the hosts in the first five minutes of the restart caught the visitors cold, and two quick goals put Club out of sight and into the next round. The first was a case of the visitors being punished for a bad foul (Howson’s high foot on Roney); Steve Hawes took the mantle of the substituted Paul Smith, and put in an excellent free kick which GODDARD flicked into the corner with his head. If that sounded easy – then Club’s fourth was practically nursery school stuff – as some shocking defending saw a corner needlessly conceded, that was delivered with aplomb by Steve Woolley, and rising in the middle with no-one within yards of him was GODDARD to head home with ease. As you’d expect, even with forty minutes still to play this game was over as a contest, so you could really forgive Sheffield for taking their foot right off the gas. That allowed Brig to have a bit of a rally in terms of chances, and when Stephen Brown’s free-kick was measured right onto the noggin of Stuart Howson, it took a save of the highest order from Leigh Walker to deny a visitors’ goal. But whilst Brig were pushing forward, they were leaving themselves pretty exposed at the back, and it took more than one last ditch challenge from captain Glen Steel (who literally played out of his skin this afternoon) to stop this being a complete embarrassment. The opportunities were coming in floods at this point, with Goddard just heading an Outram cross wide, before the inevitable fifth came. Matt Outram sent a crossfield ball fully fifty yards to Matt Roney, the substitute took it in his stride before driving in on goal, and as he entered the area RONEY blasted the ball through the legs of Andy Banks.

Brigg Town 0 Sheffield FC 5

UniBond League Cup Round One

Tuesday, 30/09/08

Sheffield FC 4 Bacup Borough 1

FA Cup Second Round Qualifying

Saturday, 27/09/08

Bacup did at least get on the scoresheet when COLLIER found himself through on goal and lobbed the ball over Walker but it was no more than a late consolation.

So Sheffield recorded their second cup win of the week, the reward for which is a trip to Leeds to face either Guiseley or Garforth Town; next up is yet another cup game, this time away to Brigg Town in the League Cup on Tuesday.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Mick Goddard

Sheffield FC: Walker, Davey, P.Smith, Ingall, Wright, Winter (Lipka), Outram(Roney), Hawes, Goddard, Partridge (Gascoigne), Woolley. Subs Not Used: G.Smith, Furniss.

Bacup Borough: Melville, Harrup, Andrews (Sheil), Marley, Cross, Taylor(Blundell), Collier, Hampson, Ellis (Rothers), Cosgrave, Slavin

Att: 247

Sheffield FC 2 Goole 1

UniBond Presidents’ Cup 1^st Round

Tuesday, 23/09/08

Sheffield ticked the first victory box in Cup fortnight, winning the first of four cup ties in eleven days tonight at the Bright Finance Stadium, beating Goole 2-1 in an entertaining Presidents’ Cup contest. Goals from debutant goal-machine Andy Gascoigne and Mick Goddard, saw Club through to the next round, after the Vikings had shocked the hosts with a third minute goal from Adam Lee. Despite being behind for much of the game, Sheffield always looked on top of this game against their old rivals, and the makeshift side were excellent value for their win.

If league form was anything to go by, Sheffield should have coasted this one, but the visitors obviously hadn’t read that script and stunned the hosts inside the first few minutes. Picking up the ball on the left, LEE went on a solo run across the face of the goal, and when it looked like the danger had passed the placed a meticulously accurate shot that crept past the outstretched hand of keeper Martin Kearney. If anything this goal stung Sheffield into action, and provided the loyal spectators who’d bothered to turn up for this one to a great exhibition of flowing attacking football, with Steve Woolley coming close by lashing a shot just over the bar. Matty Outram forced Craig Parry into making a great save, whilst Outram again created mayhem down the right wing, forcing Craig Morley to put the ball past his own post. The pressure was relentless from Sheffield but bore very little fruit in front of goal, and if it hadn’t have been for a fantastic save from Martin Kearney, David Henry could have doubled the lead just before the break.

The introduction of Andy Gascoigne at the interval gave hope that he could convert his form from reserves and under 19s football into something similar in his first outing for the first team, and almost immediately he made an impact by combining with Mick Goddard to set up Daz Winter, unfortunately Winter scuffed his shot wide. Again it was all Sheffield, and Steve Woolley’s volley forced Craig Parry into making another cracking save, whilst Club had a valid call for a penalty waved away when Willi McGhie appeared to trip Matty Outram in the area. The pressure finally paid off in the 73^rd minute as Paul Smith sent the ball down the wing to Matt Roney, he in turn put in a typically telling cross to the near post, and there to volley home with a net-buster was GASCOIGNE. Goole still held some threat in this game, and even as time ticked on it looked very unlikely we would have to suffer the ignominy of extra time, with Andy Parton testing Kearney with another fine effort. At the other end Goddard’s strength held up the ball, to set up Roney with another trademark run and cross, all that was missing was the vital touch. With six minutes to go though that vital touch came as Janni Lipka was tripped thirty yards from goal, Paul Smith took a swift free-kick into the area, and an unmarked GODDARD was there with a deft header to steer the ball home.

All in all this was an entertaining game, with some promising displays from the players making their debuts, Micah Bleau in defence – and of course – Andy Gascoigne coming on to great effect in attack. Next up on the cup trail is Bacup Borough on Saturday in the FA Cup, with the promise of bigger fish on the horizon, if that is they can overcome another tricky NWCFL team.

Sheffield FC: Kearney, Davey, P.Smith, Bleau, Wright, Winter, Outram, Hawes © (Lipka), Goddard, Styles (Gascoigne), Woolley (Roney). Sub Not Used: Gelsthorpe.

Goole AFC: Parry, McDaid (D.Smith), McGhie, Hill ©, Pollock, Morley, Henry (Jeffs), Darker, Lee, Parton, Hardy (O’Callaghan). Sub Not Used: Osborne.

Att: 211

Sheffield FC 3 Stamford 1

UniBond Division One South

Saturday, 20/09/09

 Sheffield lost the toss and was kicking towards the Dronfield end, facing a very bright September sun. There was an early chance when Woolley tested Davies in the visitors net with a deep cross, the 'keeper pushing out of the way of Goddard and his defenders clearing the danger. Stamford then had a decent effort when Stebbing headed wide from close range.  Winter then broke through midfield for the hosts and fired a shot just over the bar, Gav Smith having a similar attempt moments later, with the same result. It was a somewhat scrappy affair at this stage, with the main action condensed in the middle of the park. The visitors had a golden opportunity to take the lead on the half hour mark when Stebbing fed the ball through to Cotton, and with only Walker to beat, promptly fell over the ball......twice! Stamford were posing a threat at every set piece, Clarke going close with yet another header won by the visitors. Walker then had to be at his best to save from substitute Cunnington. On 39 minutes Sheffield took the lead, somewhat against the run of play when Hawes' free kick from the right of the area was met at the back post by GAVIN SMITH to head home (as predicted by John Shepherd). The home side then produced a flurry of attacks, Winter shooting a long range effort straight at the Davies and then Winter again releasing Roney down the right, his cross along the six yard box going begging with the 'keeper left stranded. However, the lead was short-lived as Stamford hit back just before the break when Kirk's cross into the area was met with a diving header from CUNNINGTON to level the score. With the visitors probably thinking they deserved to go into the break at least on equal terms they were stunned in added time when some good work by Winter found Woolley, the winger  threading a pass inside to RONEY who's first time shot on the turn went in off the inside of the post.

The second half saw the home take the initiative, Goddard looking to head home before the ball was whipped away from him by Pearson. It all became a bit niggly for a while, with the visitors constant moaning at the officials eventually resulting in bookings for skipper Gray and  Hawkins for arguing with the referee. Just past the hour mark, a through ball from Hawes found Goddard in a 50-50 challenge with Davies, the 'keeper just winning this particular encounter. At the other end, Paul Smith had to be alert to head away at the back post with Cunnington ready to pounce. The resulting corner saw Walker making a reflex save with his legs as the ball was threaded through a melee of legs. The visitors then had a glorious chance to level the scores as Clarke beat the offside trap and was through on goal but Walker was on hand to make a full length save and keep the home side in front. Not to be outdone, Davies in the Stamford goal had to produce a spectacular save from Winter's goal bound header. The ever willing Partridge then found space to cross to the unmarked Townsend, but with an open goal at his mercy he put his header just over the bar. Stamford were not going to give in without a fight and Paul Smith had to use all his experience when making a last ditch tackle to deny  Clarke a goalscoring chance. With less than ten minutes to go Pearson was the next player to try and equalise for Stamford when he rose unchallenged from a corner, but he put his effort over the bar. Sheffield finally sealed the victory on 89 minutes. A kick from Walker found Partridge and, despite the striker going down under the challenge he managed to release the ball out to Outram whose run and cross found DAVEY on his own in the area and he made no mistake with a volley into the roof of the net.

A game of two halves, where the team seemed to struggle in the first half, but set about the opposition after the break and managed to grind out a result against a well organised side. Next up is a break from league action on Tuesday evening as Sheffield play hosts to Goole in the 1^st round of the Presidents Cup.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Leigh Walker

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, P.Smith, Ingall, Wright, Winter, Roney (Davey), Hawes, Goddard (Townsend), Partridge, Woolley (Outram). Unused Subs: Styles, Dolby.

Stamford: Davies, White (Oswin), Hallows (Collis), Watson, Pearson, Hawkins, Cotton, Gray, Clarke, Stebbing (Cunnington), Kirk. Unused Subs: Whitby, Sheehan.

Att: 457

Sheffield eased into the next round of the cup following a comfortable enough victory over a lively Colne outfit. The Lancashire side stunned their higher league opponents by taking the lead inside the first five minutes, with Martin Broderick converting from the penalty spot. Two minutes later things were level as Daz Winter headed home, and on 20 minutes the hosts ad the lead when Mick Goddard finished following a ricochet. Five minutes later Sheffield all but wrapped up the result, when Scott Partridge headed in from close range. Colne put up more resistance in the second period, forcing keeper Leigh Walker to make two outstanding saves, and gave themselves a bit of late hope of snatching a shock result, when Adam Whiteoak stabbed home a rebound three minutes from time.

Sheffield kicked off, in this, their second game in this year's FA Cup competition. Despite early pressure it was the visitors who took the lead on 5 minutes with their first attack of the game, as Greg Wright brought down Garbutt in the area and the resulting spot kick was tucked away by BRODRICK despite the effort of Walker. Sheffield's response was swift, as, two minutes later the sides were level. A Hawes free kick out on the wing was headed home by WINTER. The midfielder went close moments later when a typical long range shot was just wide of the mark. Colne then had a chance to take the lead as Crorken's free kick found the head of an unmarked Nestor, but he put the effort wide.  The host's took the lead on 20 minutes when a Colne clearance ricocheted against another defender and as the ball looped up into the air GODDARD was on hand to get it under control and slot home, despite Crossley's attempt to save it. Sheffield were in control at this point, putting the North West Counties side under severe pressure and it was no surprise when they extended the lead on 26 minutes when good work from Roney saw his cross deep to the back post headed home by man of the match PARTRIDGE.  Heffernan stopped the home side a few minutes later when Wooley's ball into the area was cleared by the Colne captain with two Sheffield players bearing down on goal. Both Ingall and Goddard then had chances go astray. Colne's only real effort was a Broderick free kick that Walker dropped as he fell heavily but Cruz missed the target.

Sheffield carried on the second half on the attack and Partridge had the ball in the net two minutes after the restart, but the linesman’s flag had ruled the goal offside. Colne then went on the attack, gaining a free kick on the left side of the area, this was charged down, but Winter gave another free kick away, this time on the opposite side of the area. Crorken's effort looked to have found the top corner but Walker made a magnificent save to tip the ball to safety. Just past the hour mark a Roney free kick found Smith unmarked in the area but his header was over the bar. Wooley then had the 'keeper scrambling after he spilled the ball from the wingers effort. Five minutes later and he was at it again, this time cutting inside and avoiding two tackles before unleashing a shot just wide of the post. Despite all the pressure Sheffield couldn't make the breakthrough they richly deserved and had a scare on 77 minutes when Whiteoak broke free to cross into the area for Longley who was on his own, but he managed to put the ball over from eight yards out. Garbutt at least got his effort on target, making Walker dive low to his near post to turn the ball away for a corner. With the game entering the final stages, Partridge did well to hold the ball up for Woolley to run on to, and his first time shot was saved by the feet of Crossley. Colne made it a nail-biting finish as, on 84 minutes Hall's cross to Whiteoak saw his effort saved but the rebound was stabbed home by COCKETT.  However, there was to be no dramatic fight-back for the visitors as Sheffield held on to secure their place in the next round.

BTF Club Man of the Match: Scott Partridge

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, Boulter, Ingall, Wright, Winter (Davey), Roney (Outram), Hawes, Goddard (Sykes), Partridge, Woolley.  Subs not Used: Furniss, Townsend, Dolby

Colne FC: Crossley, Hargreaves (Priestley), Heffernan, Broderick (Whiteoak), Nestor, Howarth, Cockett, Cruz, Garbutt, Hall, Crorken (Longley).Sub not Used: Brennan.

Att: 242

Sheffield FC might have beaten the weather this evening, but they came off second best against high-flying Shepshed this evening, losing 2-0 at a pretty soggy Bright Finance Stadium. This was a game that always looked to be a tougher prospect than last season’s form suggested, and two second half goals from Shane Benjamin saw Club’s worst fears realised, as the home team failed to break down a resolute and well drilled defence. The home side looked second best for much of this contest, yet when they did threaten the Leicestershire outfit, they were thwarted by some rather top-notch (and sometimes fortunate) goalkeeping by Gary Hateley.

The early signs in this game were that Shepshed were a well organised side, one that could cause problems for the home team, and the visitors exploited the acres of space down the left wing given to Sam Saunders. It was through this channel that Dynamo exposed Sheffield, with Saunders providing several telling crosses that caused the hosts quite a few headaches, and Club could count themselves quite fortunate not to go in at the break behind. It was from a Sam Saunders header that produced a spectacular tip over the bar by Leigh Walker, and from the resultant corner the same player had the ball in the net, only to see it ruled out for pushing. Sheffield did a bit of threatening too, but never really tested the visitors’ keeper, with the best chance coming when Gary Hateley produced a good stop from Paul Smith after a corner wasn’t cleared effectively enough. But Shepshed were looking the better of the two sides by some distance, and could have gone ahead from a couple of chances, both of which were supplied by the visitors’ best player Sam Saunders. Firstly a cross from the left found his brother Ben in the middle, with his header just wide, and just before the interval another one from the same side found Shane Benjamin sliding in – with his effort rattling the frame of the goal with Walker beaten.

If the first half had been sounded as a warning, it was one that wasn’t heeded by the home side, as within two minutes of the restart Dynamo were in front. Once again Sam Saunders was the provider, crossing in from the left side, and rising at the back post to head home was BENJAMIN – scoring in his fifth consecutive game. The goal jolted the hosts into life, and within seconds Club’s Steve Woolley had a shot tipped round the post by Gary Hateley, starting what seemed to be a pattern for the second half. The introduction of Steve Hawes added a bit more urgency for Sheffield, and with his influence the space, and chances started to be created. A Scott Partridge cross was met by the head of Daz Winter that was turned round the post spectacularly by Hateley, and the keeper had Lady Luck shining on him as a free-kick rebounded off Gavin Smith, the ball squirming under the body of the keeper before he pawed it off the line with Partridge ready to pounce. It was the Sheffield centre-forward that was directing most of the traffic from hereon in, with Partridge’s cross finding Asa Ingall’s head in the middle – producing yet another frustratingly good save from Hateley – and when a sweeping move involving Partridge and Roney put the ball on a plate for Goddard, Hateley was there again to deny the equaliser. But the threat of a second goal always loomed, and when pushing forward Dynamo were awarded a late penalty, BENJAMIN made no mistake in sending Walker the wrong way to secure all three points for Lee Wilson’s men.

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith, P.Smith, Davey, Wright, Winter (Lipka), Outram, Ingall ©, Goddard, Partridge (Townsend), Woolley (Roney). Subs Not Used: Gelsthorpe, Furniss.

AFC Fylde: Sommerfield, McNiven, Moran (Patterson), Shaw ©, Thompson, Palmer (Lawler), Clark, Horsfall, Blackwell, Wane, Walwyn (Rowe). Subs Not Used: Sheppard, Keefe, Allen, Savlear.

Att: 285

They say there’s nothing like a good FA Cup tie to get the juices flowing, and today was no exception, as Kellamergh Park witness the proverbial classic this afternoon. It was one-each after ninety minutes of pulsating cup football, with nothing to show between two very good sides in an end to end contest, a game that both Sheffield FC and AFC Fylde could consider to have been theirs in the bag. It had everything, end-to-end football, red cards and penalty saves – and not one of those present could feel short changed with their admission money. It all came to life in the second half really, as first Club’s Paul Smith hit the post with a penalty, then Fylde’s Richard Allen was shown his marching orders for a tackle that ended Gavin Smith’s afternoon. From the resultant free kick Fylde were punished, as Asa Ingall headed Club in front in the 77^th minute, before Wembley hero Matt Walwyn restored parity from the spot five minutes later. It means that this goes to a replay on Tuesday night at the BFS, with the winners earning a home tie against Colne, who turned in an impressive 5-0 away victory at Formby.

This game was always going to be tight, and those who thought it was going to be a cakewalk for either side were in for a rude awakening, as both Sheffield and Fylde looked to bounce back from their respective defeats last weekend. Returning for Club this afternoon following suspension and injury was Darryl Winter, and it was he that made the first impact on the day’s proceedings, having his effort deflected onto the bar after a Paul Smith free kick. Fylde proved they were no mugs, and Mark Wane went close as he lashed a shot across the face of the Sheffield goal, after a little flick had seen last season’s top scorer put through on goal. Scott Partridge and Gary Townsend worked well together to set Asa Ingall up with a chance, on that the Sheffield skipper whizzed just over the bar, whilst at the other end Wane’s cross was put into the side netting by the head of Richard Allen. It was too hard to call as to who had the upper hand, but a tight first half ended with the hosts on the offensive as a Michael Clark corner was glanced just wide, by the head of Phil Thompson.

If the first half was a tame but tense affair, the second half came to life as both teams stepped up the tempo, with the visitors in particular looking the most dangerous early on. Mick Goddard had more time on the ball than he realised as he turned a shot over the bar four minutes after the restart, then moments later Scott Partridge looped a shot over the bar, after making just enough space to force one on the turn. Seconds after Club were awarded a penalty, as Scott Partridge turned the home skipper Dougie Shaw for a clear run on goal, only to be hauled down by the defender in a desperate last ditch attempt to stop the Sheffield forward. Normally when the reliable Paul Smith steps up to the mark it would be all over, but after sending keeper Pete Summerfield the wrong way, the ball hit the post (see the photo below) with the rebound headed over by the penalty taker (yes, it wouldn’t have counted if Smith had headed the rebound, but the miss was still frustrating).  

The reprieve seemed to inspire the hosts to kick-start their game, and as the game stepped up its pace, the chances started coming thick and fast. Phil Blackwell was denied not once – but twice – as first Greg Wright bravely blocked his first effort, then seconds later the forward hit the bar with a solid attacking header. This was never going to end goal-less, and when Gav Smith’s trickery down the right was met by a rash and dangerous high tackle on his shin by Richard Allen, there was only one decision the referee was going to make. So Fylde were down to ten men, and with a Paul Smith free-kick to defend, it was always going to be a tall order – too tall in fact – as INGALL rose in the box like a salmon to head home. No-one was going to be confident to say Sheffield were home and dry, and they could only hold onto the lead for five more minutes, as Martin Moran’s cross seemed to strike Greg Wright in the box. The linesman had no hesitation in awarding a handball decision for the referee, and having showed coolness and composure at Wembley only a few months ago, WALWYN was calmness personified as he planted the penalty down the middle. It seemed that it wasn’t going to end there; as Phil Thompson was on hand to scramble the ball off the line, as Steve Woolley’s cross confused keeper Peter Sommerfield along with everyone else (see picture below).

And if Sheffield felt they could have stolen it – then so could the hosts – as Joe Booth squared to Mark Wane, whose effort hit the upright, then Martin Moran set up Matt Walwyn with a chance, one that was smothered by a great save from Leigh Walker. And that was the last of the action, in a great game that both teams could have won, but neither feel they should have lost.

It sets up the scene for another big match on Tuesday at the Bright Finance Stadium, with the prize a nice little home tie against Colne of the NWCFL, and the potential for a good cup run. Overall the draw was a fair result, and both teams will relish another bite of the cherry, in front of a hopefully bumper crowd in downtown Dronfield. With a little luck the replay should suit Sheffield better, as Fylde will be without Joe Booth, who has an imminent suspension starting Monday, whilst keeper Pete Sommerfield was in great discomfort with a leg injury sustained early in the first half – rating his chances of starting as slim – and his cover between the sticks Joe Abbott also suspended, it gives manager Mick Fuller an unenviable situation. As I say, “with a little luck”, as with FA Cup football – you never know what’s coming next…

AFC Fylde: Sommerfield, McNiven, Moran, Thompson, Shaw ©, Booth, Clark (Horsfall), Allen, Blackwell, Wane, Patterson (Walwyn). Subs Not Used: Keefe, Shepherd, Lawlor.

Sheffield FC: Walker, G.Smith (Lipka), P.Smith, Ingall ©, Wright, Winter, Outram (Roney), Goddard, Partridge, Townsend (Woolley). Subs Not Used: Furniss, Dolby.

Att: 291.

The luck couldn’t last, after two late rescues that salvaged lost causes in the last week, it was third time unlucky for Sheffield FC as they fell to a revitalised Spalding United team. In a scrappy game, and with Club playing well below par, the Tulips turned the form book upside down to record a surprise 2-1 victory. After falling behind to a 19^th minute goal from Ricky Miller, an equaliser from Scott Partridge seemed to have turned things around for the visitors, but as Sheffield pressed forward they were hit by a sucker punch from Martin Wormall in the 76^th minute. It was a rather uninspiring display from Chris Dolby’s charges, and one that sees Club fall from top spot to fifth place, and ending their unbeaten start to the season.

As with last season’s corresponding fixture, this was a game where the stiff breeze had a big influence on the game; however the scrappy standard of football served up from both sides could hardly be blamed on the conditions. Sheffield as expected were the team to do the majority of the pressing, although some of the final balls were well below the par of the players that were delivering, and many failing to beat the first man. Midway through the first half Spalding ventured out of their own half, and with their first attack got themselves on the score sheet, as the skipper Stanhope sent a ball into the box and MILLER steered it home with a flick header. Club came back at the Lincolnshire outfit and within ten minutes they were level after Gav Smith was hacked down at the edge of the box, Paul Smith’s free-kick was blocked by Scott Partridge, but PARTRIDGE showed great awareness and skill to turn the ball into the net. Sheffield could have gone into the break ahead, with Partridge hooking the ball back across the face of the goal, only for Peter Davey to scuff the finish.

Spalding were a better proposition in the second  period, and went close with a couple of decent efforts as first Andy Stanhope rasped a shot inches over, and Adam Jones’ header went over the bar moments later. Luke McShane got down well to deny Steve Woolley’s snap-shot, whilst Sheffield’s best chance came as Matt Roney took the ball round the keeper, and Scott Partridge’s subsequent shot was blocked on the line. Substitute Mick Goddard had a volley spectacularly tipped over the top by McShane, and from the resultant corner Asa Ingall saw his header cleared off the line by Nicky Hurst, it looked promising but Club seemed to be lacking that vital edge to get ahead. With fifteen minutes to go Sheffield were hit by a sucker punch as Gavin Smith and Asa Ingall combined to mess up a routine clearance, substitute Kevin Ward capitalised and tore down the left wing, and his cross allowed WORMALL the luxury of a simple tap-in to give Spalding an unlikely lead. The visitors did manage to get the ball in the back of the net, as a Roney cross was headed back across the goal by Goddard, sadly Partridge’s header into the empty net was met by a linesman’s flag. It was a last chance for Sheffield, and Spalding did what was needed to close the game down, giving the Tulips their first home league win since the beginning of April 2007.

This was not a performance Club will want to remember for too long, and proof that no-one in the UniBond One South League can be taken lightly, even last season’s whipping boys. Not many of the Sheffield players can honestly look at their performances and say that was the best they could do, and they will be more than aware that this kind of game is the type that should end up with something to show for their efforts; if not three points – then at least one. But Spalding aren’t going to be the pushovers they’ve been for the last few seasons, and with a totally new side on show, they’ll certainly not be one of this season’s strugglers. As it has been said before – Sheffield have to pick themselves up from such a disappointing display and result, to get back on track with their first foray into the FA Cup this season, and it couldn’t be a more tricky against a confident AFC Fylde outfit. One thing is for certain, they’ll have to turn in a much better showing than today to get anything out of the tie, anything similar will see an early exit for the World’s Oldest Club.

BTF Club Man of the Match - Scott Partridge

Att: 163

Att: 480 

Lethal ! That’s the way to describe today’s performance in the first hour from Sheffield Club, as they ran five goals past Gresley Rovers in sixty minutes without reply, at the Moat Ground this afternoon. The last ten minutes saw a different side as the visitors took their foot off the gas, allowing David Blenkinsopp to put a couple of goals on the scoreboard, giving the overall result a heck more respectability that neither team deserved. Leading the rampage for Sheffield was the strike partnership of Vill Powell (28 mins and 52 mins) and Scott Partridge (12 mins and 55 mins), grabbing two goals each, whilst Asa Ingall snatched a typical Salmon-esque effort after 59 minutes. But it wasn’t only the goal-scoring that caught the eye this afternoon; an outstanding performance from debutant keeper Leigh Walker between the sticks raised more than a few eyebrows, whilst at the back Greg Wright and Peter Davey put in an almost faultless display in the centre of defence.

An unusually early kick off for this game gave the ideal opportunity to kick-start the UniBond Division One South season off with the first goal of the campaign, and Sheffield didn’t disappoint as at just five minutes past the hour they were off the mark, with Gav Smith, Vill Powell and Scott Partridge all taking part in some neat inter-play in the Gresley box – with PARTRIDGE taking the honours with a top class finish that made the net bulge with the finishing shot. The hosts had a chance to level matters moments later, as a cross from the right by Tom Liversage found the head of Jamie Barrett who’d wandered up the park, fortunately for Club the effort sailed just over the bar. Any worries Sheffield had about any resistance were short-lived, and midway through the half it was two, as Matty Outram leaped two hacked challenges to square the ball to POWELL who slammed the ball home past the despairing defence. At this point it has to be said that Gresley were well and truly shell-shocked; however they still managed to test Leigh Walker with a couple of efforts – the best coming from Jamie Barrett, whose shot from thirty yards out was tipped over in spectacular fashion. Such was Sheffield’s dominance in this half, they really could have gone in the dressing rooms four or five in front, and the fact they didn’t was down to some excellent keeping from last season’s ever-present custodian Dave Clarke. In a crazy two minute period just before the break Clarke had to prove his worth; the first came when Matty Outram crossed to Scott Partridge who’s volley was palmed out acrobatically by Clarke, Vill Powell followed up the rebound with a volley of his own – which was again tipped over the bar with an even better save. Powell and Partridge combined together to test Clarke again, with Partridge’s chip being turned wide of the post by the keeper, denying another almost certain goal. Down the other end of the slope Leigh Walker was doing his reputation no harm, pulling off another fantastic one-handed save, after David Blenkinsopp tried to convert a pin-point cross from Brian Woodall.

After Saturday's exertions against York City, it was yet another opportunity for manager Chris Dolby to take stock of his squad's fitness level as they took on near neighbours Chesterfield at the BFS, (writes Trevor Herrington at: www.behindtheflag.co.uk). A crowd of almost 700 turned out to watch this entertaining local derby as Sheffield played their penultimate friendly of this busy pre-season period.  It was the visitors, who set the early pace with a string of attacks, but the final decisive ball was missing on most occasions and even when they were able to get a shot on target, Hernandez was there to thwart the danger. Sheffield then started to play their own game, getting the ball out wide where Outram's cross was headed away ahead of the onrushing Goddard. This was swiftly followed by Powell laying the ball off to Gav Smith, but his shot was high over the bar. Outram again featured, sending a cross over which left young 17 year old keeper Whatsize stranded, but Hall was on hand to head clear. Back came the visitors as a good break on the left by Uduro saw him cut inside before hitting a shot just wide of the mark. Hernandez then had to be alert to turn away a first time effort at his near post from Bowery. At the other end it was Outram once again, making life difficult for the visitors as his cross was met by Goddard, who's header was just over the bar. On the half hour mark Uduro had another good chance for the Spireites, but his powerful shot was straight at Hernandez. The breakthrough came on 35 minutes, as once more the industrious Outram played the ball to Powell who managed to jink his way past two defenders before crossing for GODDARD to head home. Unfortunately for the home side, the lead lasted barely two minutes as a lapse in the Sheffield defence found BOWERY unmarked on the edge of the area and his shot was beyond the reach of the diving Hernandez. A couple of more chances fell to both sides but the defences held solid to end the half on equal terms. 

Sheffield started the second half on the attack, the Goddard/Powell pairing combining well as Goddard sent over a cross which was volleyed over the bar by Powell. Chesterfield then had a good break downfield, as Boden did well to send the ball into the area but Davey was first to react and clear the danger. This was quickly followed by Bowery shooting across goal, his effort just wide of the far post. Algar was next to test his shooting skills, this time his effort going over the bar. Goddard then had the ball in the net for the home side, but the referee had already blown for offside. It was the Spireites who were having most of the play in this period, as next up was Hall, who's shot took a deflection before hitting the foot of the post and rebounding to safety. Sheffield had their chances too, Roney cutting inside and unleashing a shot over the bar. Sheffield debutant James Smith came on to replace Goddard but had little opportunity to impress as Chesterfield were not content to just play the game out, with Uduro just missing the target and Bowery having his close range snapshot well saved by Hernandez as they pressed forward for a winner. However, no more goals were forthcoming as the referee blew to end what had been a very entertaining game between these two close rivals. Next up is the visit of the Chinese club, Chengdu Blades for what will be Sheffield's last friendly fixture before the real action starts.

Sheffield FC: Hernandez, G.Smith (Carney), P.Smith, Davey, Boulter (Roney), Townsend, Outram, Hawes, Powell, Goddard (J.Smith), Woolley. Unused Sub: Furniss

Chesterfield FC: Whatsize, Charlesworth, Robertson, Gray, Hall, Downes (Clay), Uduro, Winter, Bowery (Freestone), Boden, Alger. Unused Subs: Burns, Holmes, A.Smith, Malak.

Att: 693

The perfect antidote to a game where you have been on the back foot for ninety minutes, conceded four and barely had a shot on goal, would probably be best described as a game that was the exact opposite. So on a baking hot day in S18 Sheffield did exactly that, running in seven goals against League of Wales outfit NEWI Cefn Druids, giving the “Battle of the Ancients” a bit of a one-sided look to it. Two first half goals from Gary Townsend gave Sheffield an interval lead, but the second half saw Club open up the accelerator, running in another five from Matty Outram (two), Mick Goddard, Daz Winter and Eugene Francis. The Welshmen had very little in the way of reply, giving a pretty sub-standard performance that left the words of Coach Lee Jones echoing into the car-park, and giving him an idea of the standard of the players that wore the blue and white hoops this afternoon.

I suppose you could say the writing was on the wall from a very early stage for Druids, as in the very first minute of the game a confused defence somehow scrambled the ball away, after a goal-bound Rob Ward volley struck a defender. Gary Townsend and player-manager Chris Dolby showed some nice inter-play that resulted in a good stop by Carl Edwards, whilst debutant Scott Partridge showed his class with a defence splitting pass that set Daz Winter free, sadly (and a little embarrassingly) the cross was missed by Gary Townsend. But those blushes were spared and forgiven seconds later, as in the 23^rd minute another badly cleared attack was met by the sweetest of volleys by TOWNSEND, leaving the keeper with no chance whatsoever. Four minutes later TOWNSEND got his and Club’s second, as Matt Roney broke clear down the right and sent the perfect cross to the back post, with GT rising at the back to head in the opposite corner of the net.

You could say the introduction of Matt Outram at the interval had a bit of impact; thirty seconds in, three touches on a solo run down the left and a cracker of a shot into the back of the net said OUTRAM did exactly that. Club were on fire and both Matt Roney and Gary Townsend could have added to the total, as thy turned up the heat, whilst the Druids simply wilted. In the 65^th minute it was four, as Steve Woolley let one rip from the edge of the area, Carl Edwards saved but only giving FRANCIS an easy opportunity to head into the empty net. The 72^nd minute saw the goal of the game – the fifth one – a goal that saw Sheffield play keep-ball on the edge of a stunned Cefn area, with Woolley, Goddard, Hawes and Outram giving Francis the opportunity to lay the ball on a plate for WINTER who struck a half-volley from the edge of the box that nestled in the corner of the net after hitting the inside of the post. Three minutes later Outram hit a cross-field ball, finding that goal predator GODDARD, who showed what’s in store for the league this season by making it six with a cool finish. In the 81^st minute OUTRAM picked the ball up on the half-way line, went on a weaving solo run, and it was seven in the blink of an eye. It was obvious enough was enough, and referee Craig Grundy decided this was one contest that needed stopping, with the man in the middle blowing for time a good five minutes before time.

It was more of a surprise that Sheffield found it so easy against League of Wales opposition, especially seeing as the Welshmen proved such a difficult prospect just two years ago, when they drew 1-1 at the BFS. No doubt it will serve more as a confidence booster than anything else, and with more tricky opponents in the pre-season pipeline, it gives a good pointer for Chris Dolby as to the potential in store with a very exciting squad.

Sheffield FC: Kearney (Styles), Davey, P.Smith, Ward, Wright, Winter, Roney (Woolley), Hawes ©, Partridge (Francis), Townsend (Goddard), Dolby (Outram). Sub Not Used: Powell.

NEWI Cefn Druids: Edwards, Rowlands, Dean (Wright), Barnett ©, Jones, Powell, Cook, Mazzarella (Edgar), Feeney, McGinn (Hematinafar), Ward. Sub Not Used: Harrison.

Att: 140

Sheffield FC 0 Sheffield United 4

Pre-Season Friendly

Thursday, 24/07/08

Sheffield FC 0 Tamworth 2

Pre-Season Friendly

Wednesday, 23/07/08

Att: 140

Sheffield FC 2 Rotherham United 1

Pre-Season Friendly

Monday, 21/07/08