Sheffield Wednesday Ladies go third as acrobatic strike seals comfortable victory
After an action-packed 6-4 win over Rossington at the Jubilee Sports Ground, Sheffield Wednesday Ladies were looking to make it two wins from two as they faced struggling Millmoor on the road.
It wasn’t a fast start from the Owlesses, with Millmoor making things difficult early on and preventing the visitors from settling into their usual rhythm. Despite that, Kieron Lee’s side were able to show their quality when it mattered.
Just past the 10-minute mark, their new signing, Keely Franklin, broke the deadlock with a close-range goal right into the roof of the net, marking her third goal in just two appearances for Wednesday.
Then, 15 minutes later, the lead was doubled by Nicole Shaw… And in style, too. She took on a couple of Millmoor players before calmly slotting into the corner - a tidy finish, and her first goal since returning.
Going into half-time, the visitors were 2-0 up in tricky conditions and could be pleased with their efforts against a home side putting up a great fight as they battle to stay in the division.
Despite their valiant efforts, the hosts were simply outclassed by Wednesday. And it was substitute, Courtney Kaye, who delivered the final blow. Her acrobatic effort on the half volley made it 3-0 to seal the win, and also made it two goals in two games for the striker.
While Wednesday weren’t quite at their best, they did remain defensively solid at Droppingwell Road and took the chances that were presented to them. Standout performances came from Imogen Yeardley and Bekah Pratley, with the duo sharing the Player of the Match award for their composed display at the back.
That win saw Lee’s troops move up to third in the table with just three games left to go in the season, and they’re looking to finish strongly. Next weekend, on the road again, comes a massive fixture for the Owlesses as they seek a top-three finish - they face Altofts, who sit just two points behind in fourth, and have a big chance to take ownership of their current position.
By Ollie Ledger