The Owlesses made a positive start to proceedings, putting the hosts under pressure in the opening exchanges and looking to establish an early advantage… Their attacking intent was rewarded in the tenth minute when Amy Broomhead was brought down inside the penalty area as she looked to capitalise on a promising opportunity.

The referee pointed to the spot, with Courtney Kaye stepping up to confidently convert the resulting penalty and hand Wednesday an early lead. 1-0 to the visitors.

Unfortunately, the hosts responded swiftly to restore parity, leaving the two sides level at 1–1 during a competitive opening 20 minutes. Wednesday handle things well, though, and continued to threaten going forward. Petrucelli delivered an excellent ball into the path of Broomhead, who found herself through on goal. The forward looked certain to restore the Owlesses’ advantage, only for a crucial last-ditch save to deny her.

The visitors continued to create opportunities as the first half progressed, with Broomhead again at the centre of the attacking action… In the 44th minute her effort flashed across the face of goal, narrowly evading Nicole Shaw, who was unable to apply the finishing touch at the far post.

There was further frustration for Wednesday moments later when the referee brought the first half to an end with the Owlesses in the middle of a promising counterattack. The decision brought an abrupt conclusion to an entertaining opening period, with both sides heading into the interval level.

SWLFC emerged for the second half determined to regain control of the contest, and continued to cause problems for the Hopton defence. In the 56th minute, Broomhead produced an excellent turn to take her opponent out of the game before creating an opportunity for Shaw, who was unable to convert.

Wednesday’s persistence eventually paid off as Shaw found space down the flank and delivered a dangerous ball across the face of goal. As is so often the case, Broomhead was perfectly positioned to meet the delivery, making no mistake from close range to restore Wednesday’s lead and make it 2–1.

The goal was just reward for the Owlesses’ continued attacking pressure, and their determination to play through the phases of the game. As the contest entered its final stages, the hosts pushed forward in search of another equaliser, forcing Wednesday to remain disciplined defensively.

Annie Hall was shown a yellow card in the 50th minute for shirt pulling, while Kaye was also cautioned in the 82nd minute as the contest became increasingly physical.

Goalkeeper, Holly Coughlan, produced one of the defining moments of the afternoon in the 71st minute, stretching across her goal to make an outstanding save and prevent the hosts from drawing level.

The intervention looked increasingly significant as Wednesday approached the closing stages with their slender advantage intact, but despite their efforts to protect their lead, Lower Hopton eventually found an equaliser in the first minute of added time, bringing the scores level at 2–2.

The closing exchanges were subsequently marred by further controversy surrounding the officiating. In the second minute of stoppage time, a Lower Hopton midfielder appeared to swing an arm towards Wednesday vice-captain, Imogen Yeardley, only for the referee to award the decision in favour of the hosts.

It was an incident that added to the Owlesses’ frustration following a series of decisions that had raised questions throughout the afternoon…

There was still time for one final opportunity as Wednesday broke forward in the dying seconds, with Petrucelli racing through on goal and presenting the visitors with a potential match-winning chance.

However, before the attack could reach its conclusion, the referee blew the full-time whistle, denying Wednesday the opportunity to complete the move… The decision sparked heated scenes on the touchline, with tensions boiling over between the respective benches following the final whistle.

While the Owlesses will undoubtedly be disappointed to have surrendered their lead so late in the contest, the circumstances surrounding the final moments will leave a particularly bitter taste.

Wednesday had created several promising opportunities, demonstrated resilience under pressure and looked on course to secure all three points before the hosts’ last-gasp strike.

Nevertheless, the afternoon will be remembered as much for the contentious officiating as for the football itself, with the decision to end proceedings during a clear Wednesday attacking opportunity providing a particularly frustrating conclusion.

The Owlesses ultimately left West Yorkshire with a point, but with every reason to feel that the afternoon could - and perhaps should - have ended differently.

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Victory saw them progress to the third round of the Hallamshire County Cup, and it didn’t take long for their afternoon to look like it could be a positive one.

The Owlesses looked strong from the start, consistently creating chances and hitting the woodwork three times in the opening fifteen minutes. Nicole Shaw was denied by the post twice before Parkgate goalkeeper Kacie-Rae Townsley did brilliantly to tip Izzy Tomlinson’s effort onto the bar.

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The Balls Are Out Discount

The opening goal soon followed when Molly Crossland played the ball forward, searching for Shaw and Amy Broomhead, who had both made brilliant runs. It was Broomhead who latched onto the ball, and whose deflected finish nestled in the goal.

The home team kept probing and doubled their lead shortly after. Shaw played Eve Bennett through, and the winger did well to battle strongly and finish under pressure from the advancing Townsley.

Wednesday were dominant in midfield, with Tomlinson - stepping up from the Under 18s for her senior debut - providing great energy and Jodie Stancill pulling the strings. For Wednesday’s third, Stancill fought well to win the ball back, releasing Bennett who beat her defender before sliding across to Broomhead to finish well.

Across the pitch, the Owlesses showed great attitude after last weekend’s disappointing loss in the league. They were winning their individual battles and working well as a team. Crossland, determined to make first contact with Annie Hall’s corner, knocked the ball down for Broomhead who made it 4-0, completing an impressive first-half hat-trick. She’s now on six for the season.

Wednesday went into half-time with a 4-0 lead, and it didn’t flatter them. Townsley was busy throughout the half, making a plethora of impressive saves, and it would’ve been more than four at the break if not for her.

The home team couldn’t have put in a better first-half performance, and it might have been tempting to take their foot off of the gas in the second 45. Instead, they made it five with their first attack. Half-time substitutes, Abbie Hastie and Courtney Kaye, were both involved, with Hastie battling well in midfield before some neat link-up play from Kaye and Bennett. The latter played the ball to Shaw, who deservedly got her goal after coming close several times in the first half.

At 5-0, the game was out of Parkgate’s reach, but the Tier 8 side did show some promise in the second half. Nevaeh Nall ran through powerfully, before being confronted by Holly Coughlan - who did well to not lose her concentration after having a quiet game. On another occasion, Olivia Turner closed down Coughlan and the ball could’ve gone anywhere but fortunately rolled out for a corner.

Coughlan’s opposite number, Townsley, remained busy too, making great saves to deny Bennett, Shaw and Kaye respectively from increasing Wednesday’s lead.

The referee blew for full time, meaning a five-star performance from Owlesses eased them into the third round of the County Cup. That’s 5-0 wins for both the women and the men’s team, marking a great weekend for Wednesday. There was another positive for the Owlesses, too, as player-coach Jess Birtles returned to action for her first appearance of the season after a lengthy injury.

This Owlesses performance showed no sign of a team in transition after the amicable departure of Kieron Lee earlier this week. The Owlesses’ first all-female coaching staff will take on their first league game next week, away at Cleethorpes Town.

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With her flowing red hair and attacking mindset, it won’t take you long to notice her bombing up and down the left-hand side for the Owlesses. She’ll also be the only one out there with an American accent.

Petruccelli first came to England last year, heading over to the UK as part of her studies and making use of The University of Sheffield’s partnership with the Inspire Development Academy. From there she was spotted by Wednesday Ladies, and she didn’t need much persuading to start donning blue and white stripes.

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Lee has been part of the Owlesses setup for a number of years now on and off, and has overseen some real progress at the club as they looked to climb up the divisions.

Now, though, it has been confirmed that he is moving on for non-footballing reasons, with the club issuing their words of thanks in a statement this week.

“Sheffield Wednesday Ladies FC can confirm that Kieron Lee has stepped down from his position as First Team Manager due to commitments away from football,” they said.

“Since his appointment, Kieron has played an important role in providing stability within the First Team setup, strengthening the playing squad and contributing to the club’s continued development.

“Everyone at Sheffield Wednesday Ladies would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Kieron for his hard work, dedication and commitment during his time with the club. We wish Kieron all the very best for the future.”

Meanwhile, in terms of his replacement, the decision has been made to bring three familiar faces into the dugout on a permanent basis, forming the first all-female coaching team in the history of SWLFC.

The statement went on to say, “The first team will now be led by Renee Simmonite-Scott, Laurie Millington and player-coach Jess Birtles, marking the first all-female coaching team in the club’s history.

“The club looks forward to supporting the coaching team and playing squad as we move into the next chapter of the season.”

The Owlesses are in action against Parkgate Ladies this weekend as a new era begins for the side, and Simmonite-Scott, Millington and Birtles will be desperate to get off to a winning start.

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Despite a determined second-half response from the Owlesses, they were unable to undo the damage that was done in the opening 45 minutes.

Wednesday travelled to West Yorkshire knowing that they faced a difficult challenge against the division’s table-toppers, who would ultimately prove to be the toughest opposition that they have encountered so far this campaign.

The opening half proved to be an intensely physical contest, with Thackley imposing themselves on proceedings through their strength, aggression and relentless pressure. The hosts made it difficult for Wednesday to establish any rhythm, consistently disrupting the visitors’ attempts to play their football.

Thackley capitalised on two corner-kick opportunities during the first stanza, converting both set-pieces to establish a commanding advantage. Wednesday struggled to contain the hosts’ physical presence in the penalty area, and the hosts made the most of their opportunities.

Wednesday looked to create chances of their own, with Daisy Munn firing an effort over the crossbar from the edge of the penalty area, but at the opposite end, a defensive mix-up threatened to present Thackley with another opening… A crucial last-ditch challenge from Rebekah Pratley prevented further danger.

The hosts continued to apply pressure, and added a third before the interval - leaving Wednesday with a considerable challenge ahead. Kieron Lee made two changes at the break, with Daisy Munn and Vessey making way for Brooke Barnes and the returning Giovanna Petruccelli.

Barnes, stepping up from the Reserves for her first senior matchday involvement, was handed an opportunity to make an impression, while Petruccelli was back in the mix following a spell on the sidelines through injury.

The Owlesses emerged with renewed intent, and made a positive start to the second period, looking to establish a foothold in the contest despite the continued physical demands imposed by their opponents.

They were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area following a foul, and the resulting set-piece came agonisingly close to finding the net.

Thackley, however, continued to pose an attacking threat. A delivery into the Wednesday penalty area was initially dealt with by goalkeeper Coughlan, before a follow-up effort struck the crossbar. A scramble on the goal line eventually saw the ball forced into the net, extending the hosts’ advantage.

Despite Wednesday’s improved showing after the restart, the league leaders simply proved too strong, securing all three points at home and leaving the visiting side to head home to lick their wounds.

Having faced arguably their sternest test of the season so far, the Owlesses will now look to take lessons from a demanding afternoon in West Yorkshire as they turn their attention to their next fixture and the opportunity to return to winning ways.

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The Owlesses returned to Clay Wheels Lane looking for a response to last weekend’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Evolution Ladies, and were hoping to see an increased crowd present with the men’s team not in action.

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They needed a positive start, and they showed great attitude to get a goal within the first minute. Their determination allowed them to win the ball high up the pitch, before Nicole Shaw knocked it through to Amy Broomhead who finished well.

It was an open start to the game, with neither side able to enjoy much sustained possession and both goalkeepers were consistently called into action. Wednesday continued to show great energy across the pitch as they sought to maintain their early advantage.

York did respond to their early setback, though, and began to build momentum. A deflected through-ball put Elizabeth Ogilby one-on-one with Holly Coughlan but she was denied by the post before putting the rebound wide. Ogilby immediately got a chance to rectify her miss, however, picking up a loose clearance and slotting the ball into the net comfortably… She could’ve had another quickly after, too, but her headed finish was ruled out as offside.

Wednesday looked at their best when putting pressure on the backline, winning possession, and attacking quickly. On one such occasion, Annie Hall pinched the ball from the York defender before squaring it to Shaw - who unfortunately couldn’t keep her effort down.

Broomhead struck again around the half-hour mark, breaking the deadlock in brilliant fashion. Just inside the York half, she brought the ball down, noticed the goalkeeper off of her line and lifted it over her into the back of the net. The crowd enjoyed that one, and the home side led again. 2-1.

The away team remained a threat - especially from Sophia Drew’s long throws - but Wednesday remained resolute across the pitch. Coughlan was called into action a number of times, and did excellently to tip Bella Marshall’s freekick onto the crossbar before gathering the rebound.

The Owlesses went into half time with the lead, but it was too close to call the end result.

Both sides struggled to create chances at the start of the second half, but there was a real battling spirit to the game. New signing Daisy Munn made her debut for the home side, with the Canadian adapting quickly to the pace and physicality of English football.

Ogilby had several opportunities for the visitors, but Wednesday were equal to them. Again, Coughlan comfortably dealt with the efforts that came her way, while the defenders recovered well to keep the visitors at bay.

York’s best chances came from a string of corners, allowing the visitors to build sustained pressure, and it was during this passage of play that Wednesday were forced to make two goal-line clearances. The visitors were pushing, but the Owlesses were standing firm.

As the half went on, the home side were able to get on the ball more often, and gain increased control of the tie. Jodie Gregory came close from the edge of the box, with her effort curling narrowly wide of the post, and while York searched for an equaliser they weren’t able to fashion any significant chances.

As added time approached, Gregory was unfortunately forced off with injury, joining Jess Birtles, Rachel Norsworthy, Giovanna Petrucelli and Milly Colford on the Owlesses’ growing injury list. We’ll have to wait and see how long she faces out.

Ultimately, Wednesday’s attitude carried them through to the win. It feels like a big result; and takes them to 7 points from a possible 12. It also puts Broomhead on 3 goals in 2 games, and shows that Lee’s troops are able to adapt well to setbacks - even in his absence.

Birtles, who was responsible for managing the game, said that she was ‘so proud of the response’ after last week.

The team will now look forward to a trip to Thackley AFC Women, who currently sit on top of the table. With the standings still taking shape, and the results so far highlighting just how competitive this league is, Wednesday will be confident that they can challenge the league leaders.

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The international break means that Henrik Pedersen’s side won’t be taking to the field on Saturday, but on Sunday afternoon Sheffield Wednesday Ladies will be doing their best to return to winning ways after seeing their unbeaten start to the season halted last weekend.

They face York City Ladies Development at the Jubilee Sports Club, and it’s free entry for the 2.30pm kick off… SWLFC would love to see some of those who’d usually be Hillsborough-bound head over to the Jubes to cheer them on.

“This Sunday, we need your help,” they said. “Wednesday is more than 90 minutes. More than one team. More than one ground. This Sunday, our First Team return to Clay Wheels Lane looking for a response — and they would love the Wednesday family there with them.

“Wherever. Whenever. Wednesday. Three words with a simple meaning… Following Wednesday doesn’t begin when the turnstiles open at Hillsborough, and it doesn’t have to end when the final whistle blows.

“It’s the badge. The colours. The people. The feeling of belonging to something that stretches far beyond 90 minutes… And this Sunday, there’s another Wednesday team pulling on the blue and white.

“Sheffield Wednesday Ladies are back at Clay Wheels Lane as our First Team welcome York City Ladies Development — and this weekend means a little more than simply playing another fixture.

“Last Sunday hurt. The Owlesses suffered their first defeat of the season, with a difficult afternoon bringing an excellent unbeaten start to an end.

“Football gives you very little time to dwell on disappointment, though. Seven days later, you go again… Another Sunday. Another 90 minutes. Another opportunity to respond. And this time, the players would love to have you there with them…

“Wednesday has never been defined by one postcode. For generations, supporters have followed Sheffield Wednesday around the country & around Europe.

“Home or away. Sunday or Wednesday. Sunshine or rain. If Wednesday are playing, Wednesdayites are there. That same support can stretch to Clay Wheels Lane… It might not be Hillsborough… There might not be tens of thousands of people alongside you.

“But the badge is still an owl. The shirts are still blue and white. And the players stepping onto that pitch are representing Sheffield Wednesday Football Club.”

The Wednesday Word spoke to long-serving midfielder - and lifelong Wednesdayite - Jodie Stancill ahead of the clash, and she’s eager to see a response after last weekend’s defeat.

“We’re looking forward to getting back out there this weekend after drawing 3-3 with York City Development in our first game of the season away at their ground. We know we’ve got more to give, and the focus has been on working hard during the week, putting things into place and making sure we’re ready to give everything on the pitch.

“We want to play our style of football, move the ball with confidence and impose ourselves on the game. While we respect the opposition, we’ll be going into the match looking for the win and will be determined to put in a performance that we can all be proud of. We’re ready to work hard together as a team and give everything from the first whistle to the last.

“The support really does mean a lot to us. Seeing people heading over to the Jubilee and getting behind the ladies helps create a great atmosphere, especially when we’re out there battling for every ball. So if you can make it this weekend, get yourselves down and support us.”

Head over to the Jubilee at 2.30pm on Sunday, and support the Owlesses.

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Wednesday came into the fixture on the back of an impressive 2-1 victory over a strong Knaresborough Town side in their opening home game, and were looking to extend their unbeaten run.

The game began at a high tempo, with neither side afforded much time in possession during the opening exchanges.

Evolution created the first opportunity after winning possession high inside the Wednesday half, with their striker managing to get a shot away before being closed down… The resulting deflection earned the visitors a corner, but nothing came of it.

Wednesday soon began to build some attacking momentum of their own, and went agonisingly close to opening the scoring. Courtney Kaye raced onto a through ball and found herself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, only to see her effort come back off the post.

Despite that promising spell, it was Evolution who broke the deadlock in the 14th minute. A ball over the top released the visitors’ striker, who raced through before calmly lifting her finish over the advancing Megan Parkin.

The opener shifted the momentum in Evolution’s favour, and the away side began to apply sustained pressure to the Wednesday defence.

That pressure told in the 24th minute when another through ball from midfield opened up the Owls’ back line once again, allowing the Evolution forward to race clear and finish neatly to double the visitors’ advantage.

Wednesday struggled to regain control following the second goal, and Evolution capitalised again seven minutes later. Their number nine latched onto another through ball before finding the bottom-left corner to make it 3-0.

The Owls needed an immediate response and almost found one a minute later. Some excellent footwork from Nicole Shaw took her beyond two defenders inside the penalty area and into a shooting position, but her effort was blocked before it could trouble the goalkeeper.

Evolution remained in control, however, and added a fourth in the 39th minute. Their number nine again found space beyond the Wednesday defence before racing through and firing home.

Wednesday looked to steady themselves before the interval, and fashioned another opportunity late in the half, unfortunately the resulting effort was comfortably dealt with by the Evolution goalkeeper.

The Owls emerged for the second half with four personnel alterations, and a change of shape as they sought a response.

Thankfully the subs had an immediate impact, with Wednesday beginning the half on the front foot. Their first opportunity arrived in the 50th minute when a free-kick was delivered into the path of Kaye, though her effort found the side netting.

Three minutes later, Wednesday got themselves on the scoresheet through Amy Broomhead… A well-weighted ball over the top released Broomhead, who brought it under control before firing beyond the goalkeeper to reduce the deficit.

The goal gave the Owls renewed impetus, and Wednesday began to pose a greater attacking threat as they searched for another way back into the contest.

Jodie Gregory tried her luck on a couple of occasions, with the best of those efforts coming from her own half after spotting the Evolution goalkeeper off her line. Her ambitious strike beat the goalkeeper but crashed against the crossbar before eventually falling safely into her hands.

As the clock ran down, Wednesday made further changes in an attempt to find another breakthrough, and did create a couple of late opportunities, but weren’t able to convert.

The referee’s final whistle confirmed a 4-1 defeat and brought an end to Wednesday’s unbeaten start to the campaign… It wasn’t a performance to remember, and Keiron Lee spoke afterwards about a need for improvement.

“We’ve all got to take responsibility for that,” he said. “The team that were out there weren’t good enough. Obviously, as the coach, I set it up, and it was just a really poor performance.

“After a couple of words at half-time, you have to forget about that first half and go again in the second. We improved a little bit in the second half and we won the second half, but the plan was to win the second half by four goals. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen.”

The Owlesses are back in action on Sunday afternoon as they play host to York City Ladies Development at 2pm.

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The Owlesses returned to SWFC Community Training Ground on Sunday for their first home game of the 2026/7 season. Following a spirited display away at York last week, Kieron Lee’s girls looked to build on their 3-3 draw and get a first win on the board.

It was a dynamic start from SWLFC, who continually worked the ball into good positions and regained possession quickly to keep sustained pressure on the opposition… And their tenacity paid off within 10 minutes. New signing, Giovanna Petrucelli, showed great determination to get into the box from left back, and was rewarded by a brilliant flick inside which she was able to finish coolly.

Wednesday didn’t take their foot off the gas at 1-0, though, and it wasn’t long before they got a second. Romy Lee played a great ball down the line, which Jodie Gregory latched onto before taking the ball into the box, twisting and turning before putting in a dangerous cross… It deflected off the Knaresborough defender to put the home team 2-0 up.

Despite an overwhelmingly positive start, there was unfortunately some concern for Milly Colford, who had to be carried off the pitch after being on the receiving end of a heavy challenge in midfield.

As the half continued, the game became slightly stretched. A Knaresborough ball upfield left the Wednesday defence a bit short, and Eva Jenkins’ shot cannoned off the post - perhaps providing a warning not to underestimate the opposition. They may be newly-promoted, but the away side have achieved four successive promotions, proving their ability to adapt quickly to increasingly difficult competition.

Nevertheless, Wednesday remained dominant and defensively solid. They were particularly effective when turning the Knaresborough defence and slipping the ball in behind. They explored different styles of play, too; right back, Imogen Yeardley, saw a deep cross was met Gregory, whose header looked destined for the net but drifted just past the post. Courtney Kaye couldn’t quite reach it at the byline. Knaresborough goalkeeper, Victoria Naylor, made a number of impressive saves throughout the half, including a double save after Kaye had latched onto a misplaced back pass.

The home team deservedly went into half-time at 2-0.

Onto the second half, and it started scrappier. The visitors pulled a goal back after some offside confusion allowed runners to break towards goal… The defenders recovered well, but Jennifer Pavlou was able to find enough space to squeeze the ball into the net.

Thankfully the hosts reacted well to the goal, and regained control of the game midway through the second half. Nicole Shaw had two opportunities in quick succession; first she struck the inside of the post after being teed up by Kaye, before turning well in the box but firing wide of the target.

Wednesday were effective on the transition and looked the likelier of the two sides to get the next goal, with Lee continuing to rotate players in an attempt maintain energy and impact. Knaresborough did win a free-kick in a dangerous position towards the end of the half, but couldn’t pose a serious threat to the home defence.

And so the match ended 2-1, with Wednesday continuing their unbeaten start to the season. The Owlesses showed plenty of promise and a strong foundation to build on, especially given how well the new signings integrated into the team. Next up, Altofts Ladies away.

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After a 3-3 draw against York City Ladies Development in their opening league fixture, Kieron Lee’s troops will be eager to pick up their first victory of the campaign as they return to home soil.

While the bulk of last year’s squad has stayed together, there were a couple of new faces this week as Giovanna Petruccelli and Megan Parkin came aboard, with Parking back at the club having spent the last few years with Handsworth.

Speaking about the new duo, the Owlesses boss said, “Megan joins us from the Handsworth first team… She commands her area very well, and has bags of experience. She’s good with both feet and is very confident, too. She’s a great signing and it’s good to have her back.

“Gio comes to us from the IDA program at Sheffield Uni. She’s from New York, and is a gifted left back who can also play in midfield. She’s got plenty of pace and likes to get forward, so I think she’ll be a great addition to our squad.”

Today’s clash against Knaresborough is set for 2pm, and will take place at the SWFCCP Sports Facility on Claywheels Lane. It’s free.

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The Owlesses got their league campaign underway with a six-goal thriller away at York City Ladies Development on Sunday afternoon.

Wednesday were forced to respond on three separate occasions, and showed plenty of character to battle until the final whistle - with Nicole Shaw’s 90th-minute equaliser ensuring the points were shared.

The hosts made the perfect start, taking the lead from a corner after just four minutes… Wednesday’s response was almost immediate, though, with Annie Hall delivering a dangerous free kick into the area - and Courtney Kaye was on hand at the back post to turn the ball home and bring the Owls level.

Wednesday thought they had completed the turnaround on 26 minutes as York’s goalkeeper spilled the ball and the visitors found the net, but the referee pulled play back and the goal was unfortunately ruled out.

Instead, it was York who regained the advantage, doing so in the 38th minute. A strike from the edge of the area was just beyond the reach of Holly Coughlan, and meant the visitors headed into the interval 2-1 behind.

The Owls emerged strongly after the restart, though, and were level again within four minutes… Shaw stepped up to take a corner, and produced a superb delivery which bent directly into the net to make it 2-2… An Olimpico one matchday one.

There was a brief concern seven minutes later when Rebekah Pratley required treatment following a head injury, but she was cleared to continue after a brief stoppage.

York then came close to restoring their lead in the 68th minute when a threatening attack ended with an effort striking the post, before Wednesday went close themselves as Abbie Hastie produced an inventive effort with the outside of her foot, narrowly missing the near post.

With five minutes of normal time remaining, York struck again, squeezing an effort beyond Coughlan at the near post to leave Wednesday chasing the game for a third time… But the Owls weren’t finished - they don’t give up that easily.

And their endeavour was rewarded in the 90th minute. It was Shaw again, who struck for the second time to drag Wednesday level once more and secure a point from a six-goal contest. It was no less than they deserved.

It was a game of two halves, and a display full of character from the Owlesses, who battled until the end to ensure they left York with something to show for their efforts. Kieron Lee will have been pleased with their battling spirit.

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SWLFC take on York City Ladies Development in their opening fixture on Sunday afternoon at 2pm, with the clash taking place at York St John University Sports Park.

Wednesday don’t quite have a full squad available with Jess Birtles and Amy Broomhead unable to feature, but Kieron Lee will be hoping to see his side get off to a winning start after a solid campaign last time out.

Ahead of the tie we thought we’d catch up with the Owlesses boss to give us a bit of an introduction to those that will be donning the blue and white stripes in the months to come. Here’s what he had to say…

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1. Holly Coughlan - Goalkeeper

3. Imogen Yeardley - Centre back

5. Romy Lee - Centre back

6. Jodie Stancill © - Centre midfield

7. Eleanor Vessey - Full back

8. Amy Broomhead - Striker

10. Abbie Hastie - Centre midfield

11. Rachel Norsworthy - Full back

12. Jessica Birtles - Centre back

14. Rebekah Pratley (VC) - Centre back

15. Molly Crossland - Defensive midfield

16. Annie Hall - Centre midfield

17. Milly Colford - Centre midfield

18. Eve Bennett - Winger

19. Nicole Shaw - Striker

21. Jodie Gregory - Striker

43. Courtney Kaye - Attacker

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Wednesday Ladies took to the pitch on Sunday afternoon in the preliminary round of the Adobe Women’s FA Cup for their first competitive game of the 2026/27 season. After a successful preseason which saw Wednesday Ladies go undefeated - and retain a number of key players - the team looked to start the season with a win.

It was a tense start, too, with the sun beating down overhead, and both teams seemed to be sizing each other up. Wednesday showed promise, with some dangerous deliveries and neat bits of link-up play, while Chesterfield had a few blocked shots on goal.

The visitors had the first major chances, too, with Annie Hall’s smart deliveries from corners almost giving the Owls the opening twice. One ball floated over everyone and looked destined to nestle in the back of the net, but the post came to Chesterfield’s rescue, allowing them to clear the rebound. The subsequent corner also went to the back post, and was met this time by Hannah Baines, who was frustrated again by the woodwork as the ball bounced agonisingly along the bar.

Despite the Owlesses’ positive start, it was the home side who got the opener midway through the half. They worked a throw-in into Zoey Borland in a dangerous position inside the box, who spun away from her marker and slotted the ball into the bottom right corner, leaving goalkeeper Holly Coughlan with no chance.

Chesterfield had the advantage going into half time, but Wednesday made a positive start to the second half. Manager, Kieron Lee, had switched to a more attacking formation and brought on some attacking firepower - which did certainly impact the game. Striker, Courtney Kaye, added presence in attack, and captain, Jodie Stancill, seemed to be freed up to showcase some more technical flair.

And SWLFC were awarded for their positivity just after the 60-minute mark. Their pressure continued after a dangerous shot led to a goal kick as Wednesday quickly regained possession, and Baines drove into the box before sliding the ball across to substitute Sheridan Betts, who coolly finished.

At 1-1, Wednesday looked to build momentum, but Chesterfield were a strong opponent and posed a constant threat from set-pieces. They regained the lead from a corner, with Tayana Dunn delivering to the back post, with Maisie Gallagher - who put in a Player of the Match performance in defence for Chesterfield - ghosted in to meet the ball.

Chesterfield began to apply some more pressure, and their third goal was conceded in an unlucky manner. Dunn drove at Wednesday’s retreating defence and did well to create some space before playing the ball to Cerys Brooks, who had worked hard to get forward and join the attack. Her initial shot drew a good save from Coughlan, but the ball rebounded off Brooks, and this time the ball trickled into the bottom corner.

It was an uphill battle to come from two goals behind, and Wednesday simply weren’t able to fight back. The final whistle brought the Owls’ cup campaign to a close at the first hurdle, and it was the hosts who progressed into the next round.

Lee reflected candidly on the match afterwards, insisting that he was ‘proud of the girls’ and their performance, adding ‘it is what it is, and we wish Chesterfield the best for the season’

Wednesday will now turn their attention to the start of their league campaign in two weeks’ time, which begins with a visit to Bottesford Town on Sunday 6th September.

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Shaw is only 20, and has a bright future ahead of her. This season her 11 goals and three assists across all competitions had her tied with Amy Broomhead for total G/A, and the Penistone local had a big role to play in the Owlesses’ fifth-place finish.

Coming from a family of Wednesday fans, the attacker is relishing the opportunity to play in blue and white. And her family are enjoying it, too.

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The Owlesses look likely to finish fifth in the North East Regional Women’s Football League South, three places higher than last season, and with six points more than they amassed over the course of the 2024/25 campaign.

It marks a season of progress for SWLFC, who will now be looking to add to their squad over the summer in order to try and finish even higher in their upcoming campaign. It won’t be easy, but they’re hopeful of keeping hold of their key players - and building on what they achieved this time around.

Their manager, who returned to the fold for the final stretch of the season, is aiming high.

Wednesday Ladies eye further progress

“Looking back on our season I am pleased with the progress the squad has made,” Lee told The Wednesday Word. “We have a talented group who are loyal and always looking to learn and improve. We have built an identity into the first team squad, and the results at times have shown we are going in the right direction.

“The youngsters who have been given an opportunity have all done really well. Looking at new players coming in, we will be holding trials and I definitely want to look to give some of our youngsters at the club the opportunity to push for a shot at first-team football. All in all, it’s been a good season - but we want to improve and push for a higher league finish next season.”

In terms of key performers, Nicole Shaw, finished up as the club’s top goalscorer with 11 - one ahead of Amy Broomhead (10) - while Rachel Norsworthy’s six assists saw her claim the title of top creator.

Both Shaw and Broomhead contributed a total of 14 G/A, the highest of anyone in the side, while Imogen Yeardley - with her 20 appearances - went down as the most-used player. All are set to play a big role in 2026/27, with some fresh faces set to join the fight as well.

The Owlesses’ campaign drew to a close in exasperating fashion as a second-half goal sealed the points for the home side. It means that Kieron Lee’s side will finish either fourth, fifth or sixth in the North East Regional Women’s Football League South.

It was a very end-to-end encounter from the get-go, with both sides struggling to assert themselves due to the poor standard of the pitch. Despite this, Wednesday looked the better of the two sides, however were missing that crucial quality in the final third.

The sides went into the break level, with a more clinical edge in front of goal required in order to find the breakthrough, though big chances had been few and far between.

The second half followed a similar trend, with the game continuing to be stretched and with lack of quality opportunities for both sides. Wednesday controlled possession, but it couldn’t make it stick in key attacking areas, making it easier for the hosts’ backline to fight them off.

Then, against the run of play, Rossington managed to find the back of the net. It was Alice Linsell who got it, opening the scoring in what had been a pretty even game of football.

One of those days

Though the visiting team pushed forward in search of an equaliser, the game continued in a similar manner to how it had played out prior to the goal - and ultimately Lee’s side were unable to find a breakthrough.

A late chance fell to Jodie Gregory, whose effort looked goal-bound, only for Rossington goalkeeper Niamh Trayner to pull off a wonder save and deny the Owlesses what would have been a deserved equaliser. It was going to be one of those days.

So that was how the game concluded, with SWLFC’s final outing of the 25/26 campaign ending in a narrow and frustrating defeat. It was a disappointing way to finish the season, especially with third place on the cards, but the work rate and determination of this squad couldn’t be faulted. Especially that of Alex Pruitt, who landed the Player of the Match award after a battling individual performance.

With that, a season of up-and-downs came to a close… As things stand, Wednesday Ladies look set for a fifth-place - though that depends on results elsewhere - and that’s a significant improvement on last year.

Across all competitions, it was attacker, Nicole Shaw, who finished up as the club’s top goalscorer with 11 to her name, one ahead of Amy Broomhead (10), while Rachel Norsworthy’s six assists saw her claim the title of top creator. Both Shaw and Broomhead contributed a total of 14 G/A, the highest of anyone in the side, while Imogen Yeardley - with her 20 appearances - went down as the most-used player.

Now, with a busy summer ahead, changes are expected at SWLFC - and they’ll be hoping to climb even further up the table come this time next year.

By Ollie Ledger

The title-chasing Mods put the Owlesses to the sword on Sunday afternoon, although the scoreline probably didn’t reflect the overall performance shown on the pitch by the home side.

Wednesday came into the match unbeaten in three, but knew it would be a tough test against a Modernians side who could go top of the table with a victory.

The first half was a tightly-contested one, with both sides matching each other for work rate and intensity in what was proving to be an end-to-end game. Clear-cut chances were limited early on, with both teams staying disciplined and organised in and out of possession. Wednesday battled persistently but struggled ultimately in the final third.

And it was the team from Leeds who eventually broke the deadlock, with an error from the hosts seeing them go into the break with a 1-0 deficit, despite a resilient showing.

Missed chances prove costly

The second half proved to be a tale of both missed opportunities for Wednesday, and clinical finishing from the visitors. Changes were made at half-time in midfield and up top to attempt to gain more control, but the Mods shifted into an aggressive 4-2-4 formation that put them on the front foot.

Amy Broomhead and Jodie Gregory both had promising chances, but luck wasn’t on Wednesday’s side. The Owlesses could easily have scored three or four against a top side, but were left to rue their lack of clinicalness.

Leeds, meanwhile, were the opposite. The promotion-chasers were ruthless when their chances arrived, putting four past Holly Coughlan in the second half - including an excellent strike from midfielder Mia Moorhouse, who controlled the ball on the half-turn before finishing superbly.

In the end, it wasn’t Wednesday’s day, and while end result somewhat flattered the visitors, it will have given Kieron Lee plenty of food for thought. The Player of the Match was awarded to Rachel Norsworthy for a solid display at left back, though it won’t be an afternoon that any SWLFC player will remember too fondly.

Now Wednesday turn their attentions to Rossington Main, and the final game of the campaign. Following Altofts’ draw with York over the weekend, the Owlesses dropped to 4th - though only on goal difference…

With third place still achievable, Wednesday will be aiming for a win in the season finale, while hoping that results elsewhere go their way. Altofts still have to face the league’s top two sides, so a top-three finish is by no means out of reach for the women in blue and white.

By Ollie Ledger

The Owlesses are finishing the season strongly, and are looking good to secure a top-four finish in the North East Regional Southern Division. Lee, who has spent time as manager before, was brought in to lead the team forward after Andy Gilligan’s recent departure, and what has followed is seven points from a possible nine.

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