2026 News

17 MAY – CBC PREMIER – Eckington fail to play their game at Jubilee – Eckington MW failed to play their game at Jubilee, meaning that Jubilee will get 3 points and go above Chapeltown RBL. A full explanation of the whole circumstances about this re-arranged fixture has been sent to all clubs

12 MAY – LEAGUE CUP FINAL – Chapell penalty sees Earl edge the Final to complete the Double – The League Cup Final between Royal Earl and Wadsley Bridge Sixers at Sheffield United's Bramall Lane Stadium saw a Connor Chapell penalty enough to see Earl edge the Final to complete the League and Cup Double. The defining moment came early in the game when Brandon Bagley went down under a challenge and Chapell sent keeper Callum Jones the wrong way from the penalty spot. Pictured left is Earl celebrating with both the CBC Premier trophy and the League Cup. Here is a link to video of the event, courtesy of Topliss at the Turnstiles Penalty CONTROVERSY in a CAGEY Sunday League Cup Final

The game almost had a sensational start when the kick-off by Earl, their skipper Johnno Williams slipped and only a foul on Sixers Brad Howe stopped him threatening the Earl goal and the free-kick came to nothing. The first real chance came when Sixers Leo Penty put Chris Belshaw through, but for once the League's top scorer shot narrowly wide.

The match winning moment came next when Williams played a free kick down the line and as Brendon Bagley burst in the area he went down under a challenge by Luke Allison anf referee Aaron Hallam immediately pointed to the spot. Earl's Connor Chapell showed how reliable he is with penalties by sending keeper Callum Jones the wrong way to give Earl the lead. Bagley then had a chance to double Earl's lead when he was put through, but this time keeper Jones made a smart save to deny him. Sixers threatened at the other end when Howe headed wide under pressure before a mazy run by George Rudd saw his shot fly wide of the Earl goal.

Ater the break a quick break by Earl ended with a free kick on the edge of the area, but Chapell's shot was blocked and then cleared. The next real chance came Sixers way when Belshaw played George Rudd in, but Earl keeper Dylan Parkin pushed his shot out (pictured right)and Belshaw's follow up shot was blocked by a defender. Earl countered when Man of the Match Sam Fewkes burst through to played the ball to Scott Ruthven but Jones was quickly off his line to block the shot.

Both team's struggled to break down stubborn defences after that until the 5th of 7 minutes of added time saw Sixers force a corner which was only partially cleared and when it was crossed back in Allison headed narrowly wide. That was the last real chance and holders Earl held on to win the trophy for the second successive time at Bramall Lane and complete the Blades Super Draw League and Cup double for the first time. More pictures are below courtesy of Ian Anderson, Connor McMain and Richard Harvey..

10 MAY – LEAGUE CUP FINAL – Bramall Lane date of Tuesday 12 May set for the Blades Super Draw League Cup Final – The date for the League Cup Final between Royal Earl and Wadsley Bridge Sixers at Bramall Lane is this Tuesday 12 May with a 7:15 kick-off. It should be a terrific game with Champions Royal Earl trying to complete the double by beating 3^rd place Wadsley Bridge Sixers that is the CBC Premier Division's top scorers. Come along and support the teams, entrance is into the Tony Currie Stand and is £10 for adults (CASH ONLY), but free for children 15 and under.

10 MAY – CBC PREMIER – RBL still left hanging after last gasp draw with Jubilee – Jubilee Rangers faced Chapeltown RBL knowing that victory for either of them would guarantee the winners safety and send the loser down, but after coming from behind it looked like it would be Jubilee’s day until, in the 4^th minute of added time Morgan Cowell headed what could be a priceless equaliser that means that safety will be decided by Jubilee’s final game of the season at home to Eckington MW.

Relegation football has a habit of turning ordinary afternoons into pressure cookers, and this one bubbled right to the final whistle. RBL struck first after just nine minutes and did it in style. Full back Mikey Vella picked the ball up 25 yards out, looked up once, and absolutely rifled his effort into the top corner to hand RBL an early advantage. It was the kind of strike that leaves defenders frozen like traffic cones in a winter storm.

The opening half belonged largely to RBL. They controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and looked the more likely side to score again, but their inability to find a second goal kept Jubilee hanging in the contest - that lifeline would prove crucial.

Jubilee emerged for the second half with far more intent and gradually began to get a foothold in midfield. Their pressure paid off in the 57th minute when Ross Lamkin bundled the ball home from a corner to equalise, swinging momentum sharply in their favour. Jubilee kicked on and RBL were under wave after wave of attacks. As the clock ticked down and nerves tightened around the ground, Jubilee thought they had completed the great escape in the 85^th minute when Brendan Reid-Flanagan raced in behind to coolly slot the ball home to give them what looked like the winner.

But RBL were not done. Deep into stoppage time, Morgan Cowell rose highest in the box to slam home a dramatic header in the 93rd minute to level the game at 2-2 and send the match into chaos. There was still time for one final twist too, as Jacob Walkland came within inches of snatching survival for RBL, only to see his 96^th minute effort thunder against the crossbar and stay out. At full time, neither side could fully celebrate, nor fully despair and the relegation battle is now set to be decided in Jubilee’s final match showdown against Eckington. Action, from Ian Anderson, is below:

Stannington Village and Wickersley CC both completed their season by drawing1-1 with each other. Wickersley dominated early proceedings creating 3 great chances, hitting the post followed by some poor finishing for the others. Stannington always dangerous and very organized and they had a few chances late on in the first half before Adam Daughtrey put Wickersley In front with a header from Jacob France’s ball into the box.

Second half was very end to end, but it was Stannington that started the brightest and a penalty for handball allowed Aemad Gadour to equalise from the spot. Wickersley got back on top and made Stannington’s keeper work twice in quick succession before it became like basketball with both teams trying to get a winner. Wickersley had a penalty shout for hand ball turned down before Stannington nearly won it win the final kick of the ball, but veteran Shaun Flynn stumbled when free 8 yards out. The result means Stannington stay 2nd and Wickersley 4th.

10 MAY - DIVISION 1 – Loca take the title, but Wisewood make it tough – Loca had to come from behind to beat AFC Wisewood 4-3 and clinch the Division 1 title on goal difference over a Hackenthorpe that has to settle for the Runners-up spot. Loca started off nervously and that culminated in a missed penalty from Cammy Evans and instead it was Wisewood that, against the odds went into half time leading 1-0 thanks to a strike from their leading scorer Will Osgathorpe.

A few spoken words of encouragement and positivity at half-time saw Loca’s nerves settled and they quickly got in to their stride. A 25 yard top corner free kick goal from Ollie Grady levelled the game at 1-1 and within 7 minutes Loca took the lead through Man of the Match Cammy Evans, but a lapse in concentration let Osgathorpe in to score his 14^th of the season to make it 2-2. Loca upped the tempo to get their passing game on and went 3-2 up 10 minutes later through Curt Modest, but nerves on the sidelines were still showing until 3 minutes later when Mitch Kent made it 4-2.

The 100 plus home crowd thought it was all over, but Wisewood didn’t give up and Sam Civil grabbed their third to make the last 5 minutes very nervy. Loca managed them out though to claim a title for the 2nd season in a row and go up to the CBC Premier league for the first time.

Both Cotts FC and Kelham Island completed their season against each other and despite goals for Cotts from Reece Rogers and Ty Gunter, an entertaining game saw Kelham just came out on top, 3-2, with goals from Tommy Palmer, Alex Simons and Lewis Atkins.

10 MAY - LEADING GOALSCORERS – Belshaw and Liggins take the titles – Wadsley Bridge Sixers Chris Belshaw has completed the season as the CBC Premier and League's leading scorer with 21 goals. Just One behind him was the Division 1's top marksman, Loca's Logan Liggins with 20 goals, and he was just one in front of Crookes' Oli McQuillin

3 MAY – LEAGUE CUP FINAL – Sixers will be at home at Bramall Lane on Tuesday 12 May in the League Cup Final – The draw for the home dressing room for the League Cup Final between Royal Earl and Wadsley Bridge Sixers at Bramall Lane was made by former Blade Billy Sharp at Bramall Lane and it saw Wadsley Bridge Sixers get the home dressing room and Royal Earl the away dressing room. Pictured is Billy holding the away dressing room draw. The Final is at Bramall Lane on Tuesday 12 May with a 7:15 kick-off. It should be a terrific game with Champions Royal Earl trying to complete the double by beating the Wadsley Bridge Sixers that is the CBC Premier Division's current top scorers and certain to finish in the top 4. Come along and support the teams, entrance is into the Tony Currie Stand and is £10 for adults (CASH ONLY), but free for children 15 and under.

3 MAY – CBC PREMIER – Stannington secure 2nd place, Nailmakers are safe, but RBL let hanging – Stannington Village secured the Runners-Up spot with a narrow 1-0 victory over Chapeltown RBL. Both sides showed real intent from the kick-off, but it was a moment of brilliance that won it when the ball fell to Sami Eric 20 yards out and his volley gave keeper Chris Harwood no chance. Callum Wright was a rock in the RBL defefence, Jed Phillips drove them forward and Farbod Youseffi caused the Stannington defence problems, but Stannington almost sealed it when Tom Staniland's cross gave Dan White a chance, but his shot was too close to keeper Harwood.

That result that means Nailmakers are safe despite a heavy 7-0 defeat at already relegated Southey Social. Jay Slocombe gave Southey a 5th minute lead and Byron Mullen doubled it from 25 yards into the bottom corner and Todd Guest made it three from close range before the break. The second half started with Southey getting a fortunate fourth with an own goal from a corner.Luke Broadbent made it five and Jack Hawkes six beore man of the match Jack Dickens completed the scoring after his first effort had been blocked.

Only a win for RBL at Jubilee next Sunday will see them safe and Jubilee relegated, but a win for Jubilee will see RBL relegated and them safe. A draw would mean that Jubilee would have to win their final game against Eckington to stay up and send RBL down.

3 MAY - DIVISION 1 – Loca need 1 more win for the title – Loca had a convincing 7-3 win against Cotts FC. It took just 10 seconds for Cam Evans to set man of the match Curt Modest up for the opener and Evans made it two inside two minutes. Evans then set Logan Liggins up for his 19th of the season to make it three and it was four before the break with a Jack Edwards goaal following a corner.

Cotts started the second half by pulling one back through Reece Rogers, but Loca hit back straight away when full back Danny Richards set Liggins up for his 20th off the season. Cotts grabbed a second through Zeph Longmore, but Oli Grady set Modest up for his second of the game before Richards netted Loca's seventh with a cross that went over everyone and into the net. Cotts grabbed a third consolation through Jo Moakes to complete the scoring. Loca now need to win their final game against AFC Wisewood next Sunday to secure the title over Hackenthorpe on goal difference. Any other result will see Hackenthorpe take the title.

26 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Sixers go second and Boynton Sports are safe – Wadsley Bridge Sixers completed their league programme by thumping relegation threatened Chapeltown RBL 6-1 to go second. Josh Statham gave Sixers the lead midway through the first half and 15 minutes later Chris Belshaw doubled it. Almost immediately Aaron Williamson produced a spectacular volley to pull one back, but Sixers had their two goal lead back before half-time with a Luke Allison penalty.

After the break a second penalty allowed Belshaw to score his second and 21^st of the season. As RBL wilted in the sun, Rob Farrell made it 5-1 before Ben Southwell completed the scoring.

The two teams below Sixers both drew. Wickersley were held 1-1 by Eckington MW. Eckington created the better chances in a goalless first half, but it was Wickersley that went in front in the second half when Kallum Nix’s through ball allowed Adam Daughtrey to beat the keeper. After having one goal disallowed, Eckington finally got their equaliser when Will Onions through ball was finished off by Joel Cousins.

Stannington Village were held 4-4 by a Jubilee Rangers battling to get out of the drop zone. Stannington took the lead when Tom Staniland’s cross was headed home by Niall Loughlin, but Jubilee hit back through Adam Darton. Loughlin put Stannington back in front when he beat two defenders before bending it in off the post from 25 yards, but Darton struck his second to send the teams in level at the break.

The second half saw Jubilee go in front when Ross Lamkin saw the Stannington keeper off his line and lobbed him to score, but Stannington levelled when Sami Eric and Brad Worsfold combined to set Charlie Shepherd up to score at the near post. Worsfold then crossed for Aemad Gadour to head Stannington back in front, but Jubilee didn’t give up and Leuan Toper headed home to give Jubilee a deserved point

Jubilee are still in the third relegation spot, but RBL are only just above them, as are Nailmakers who were beaten 4-1 by Boynton Sports. Richie Atkins gave Boynton the lead, but it was cancelled out by Nick Owen. That was as good as it got for Nailmakers though and a Marc Peacock double along with one for Jake Bonnett saw Boynton home and safe from the drop.

26 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Mosborough are promoted and Cotts climb off the bottom – AFC Wisewood failed to get a team out to play Mosborough Reds, so Reds were awarded the 3 points and that was enough to see them promoted in 3rd place. If that match had been played and Reds lost, Crookes had a chance to take the final spot, but they lost their final game 5-3 at Brunsmeer. Crookes took the lead with an Oli McQuillin strike, but Brunsmeer equalised.

Pete Smith then put Crookes back in front and although Brunsmeer equalised just before half-time, McQuillin netted his second and 19^th of the season to give Crookes the lead a third time. It wasn’t enough though as Brunsmeer won it with 3 second half goals. Jake Hatton and Billy Gillott both scored twice for Brunsmeer along with one from Billy Gillott.

Cotts climbed off the foot of the table by gaining revenge, 3-0, over a Norton Oaks they lost to the previous week. Jacob Lally netted two of them, with Alex Carlton the other

23 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Chapeltown take a big step towards safety – Chapeltown RBL came from 2 down to complete a 5 day double over Boynton Sports to move 3 points clear of the drop and just a point behind Boynton with 2 games in hand of them. The result drags Boynton into the relegation fight and also effectively relegates Southey Social as RBL's goal difference is far superior than Southey's.

RBL completed a ruthless five-day double over Boynton in a game that twisted and turned before exploding into life in the second half. It looked like Boynton were set for revenge early on, racing into a two-goal lead with two Richie Atkins strikes inside the opening nine minutes. RBL were rocked, chasing shadows, and for a while it looked like the script had flipped completely from their previous meeting. But just before the break, the momentum began to creak and shift. A corner caused chaos in the Boynton box, Millen’s header somehow clawed off the line, only for Aarron Williamson to react quickest and smash home the rebound on 43 minutes. Lifeline grabbed, belief restored.

The second half belonged to RBL. On 64 minutes, Charlie Cope rose like a man with unfinished business, meeting Jay Carter’s cross with a powerful header to level things up. From there, Boynton began to wobble, and RBL sensed it. With 15 minutes to go, substitute Jed Phillips slipped a perfectly weighted pass into the path of Carter, who kept his cool, rounded the keeper, and rolled the ball into an empty net. Phillips and Carter are pictured celebrating.

There was still time for late drama. Boynton were handed a golden chance to equalise from the spot on 85 minutes, but Lewis Fox had other ideas, producing a huge penalty save to preserve RBL’s lead and with the very last kick of the game, RBL slammed the door shut. Cope turned provider this time, picking out Phillips, whose effort squirmed over the line to cap a remarkable comeback. From early collapse to late control, RBL showed resilience, quality, and a touch of chaos to seal a 4–2 win.

23 APRIL – LEAGUE CUP FINAL – Sixers will be at home at Bramall Lane on Tuesday 12 May in the League Cup Final – The draw for the home dressing room for the League Cup Final between Royal Earl and Wadsley Bridge Sixers at Bramall Lane was made by former Blade Billy Sharp at Bramall Lane yesterday and it saw Wadsley Bridge Sixers get the home dressing room and Royal Earl the away dressing romm. Pictured is Billy holding the away dressing room draw. The Final is at Bramall Lane is on Tuesday 12 May with a 7:15 kick-off.

19 APRIL – COUNTY FA SUNDAY TROPHY FINAL – Loca pay the penalty for missed chances – Division 1 Loca FC were beaten on penalties by Barnsley's Shaw Inn in the County FA Sunday Trophy Final at the Steel City Stadium (formerly known as the Olympic Legacy Park}.

Loca dominated play the early play and took a deserved lead when Logan Liggins headed a corner home. Loca continued to dominate. Liggins missed a glorious chance to double their lead, but some slack marking and a good finish saw Shaw Inn equalise to send the teams into half-time all-square.

The second half continued much the same as the first half and Loca deservedly got back in front when a set-piece was flicked on and Michael Golland headed home, but some more slack marking and a good piece of skill allowed Shaw Inn to draw level a second time. Loca went flat out for a winner, but a series of missed chances and good saves by the Shaw Inn goalkeeper and Man of the Match Aaron Davison kept them out and the game ended 2-2, so it went to penalties. Neither keeper got close to a save until the 12^th penalty was saved by Davison to hand the Trophy to Shaw Inn. Action from the game is left with more pictures below, courtesy of Ian Anderson.

19 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Eckington beat Stannington to hand the title to Royal Earl – Royal Earl were crowned Champions as Stannington Village's 5-2 defeat at Eckington meant no one could catch Earl. Stannington had the first chance when a Connor Platts header was tipped over the bar by the keeper, but it was Eckington that took the lead when a quick break saw the ball crossed into the area for Ethan Flower to slot home. Five minutes before half-time Flower doubled the lead with a stunning long range volley and Eckington took a real stranglehold of the game when minutes later a long throw was headed home by Mitch Walker.

Stannington started the second half well and pulled one back when Leo Higgins crossed for Aemad Gadour to score, but Eckington soon restored their three goal lead when Owen Ryan fired into an empty net after the initial effort was saved. Stannington pulled a second back when Niall Butchart found the top corner, but it was Eckington that had the final say when a good cross into the box was turned into his own net by a Stannington defender. The loss meant that Stannington could no longer catch leaders Royal Earl, but the win for Eckington kept them in the race for the Runners-Up spot.

Wickersley CC also stayed in the race for Runners-Up with a 3-1 victory over Woodman. Although Woodman always looked dangerous on the break, it was Wickersley that started well and had the lead at half-time with an Owen Kelly penalty.

The second half saw Wickersley still on top, but the Woodman keeper kept his side in it and his efforts were rewarded when Lemuel Chitekwe equalised.. The game became very open at this stage, but it was Wickersley that went back in front with Kelly grabbing his second after a good build up. A second penalty allowed Kelly to complete his hat-trick to confirm the three points that leaves them just a point behind second place, but it’s very tight with just 3 points separating 4 clubs.

At the other end of the table, Nailmakers went 6 points clear of the drop with a 2-0 victory over relegation rivals Jubilee Rangers. Although Jubilee withstood early pressure, Nailmakers took a half-time lead when Harry Wharam netted from a Russ Westby corner. Nailmakers doubled their lead midway through the second half when Adam Justice nodded in a Ryan Goodison cross and only good defending stopped them increasing it further.

Jubilee dropped into the bottom 3 after Chapeltown RBL's 2-1 win in the High Green derby with Boynton Sports. RBL made the perfect start when the opening minute saw Charlie Cope released and kept calm to beat the keeper. They doubled their lead on 19 minutes when Mitch savage threaded a superb through ball into the path of Aaron Williamson and he made no mistake to score his first for the club.

Boynton quickly pulled one back with a Tom Deighton strike to set up a nervy contest, but with Dale Shaw marshalling the defence and Jav Heffferan barking out the instructions in midfield like an air-traffic controller, it was RBL that held on to take the three points that lifted them above Jubilee on goal difference and out of the bottom three for the first time this year.

19 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Hackenthorpe end the season on a high and Oaks climb off the bottom – Hackenthorpe completed their games with a 2-0 victory at third place Mosborough Reds to extend their lead at the top of Division 1 to six points. Hackenthorpe led at half-time after Xavier Dandrade danced past three defenders before slotting home. The result was confirmed midway through the second half when Kian Holloway nutmegged a defender before beating the keeper.

The result meant Hackenthorpe ended the season with a perfect all-win record away from home and they can only be pipped to the title if Loca win both their final two games. Reds will still be promoted if they win their final game at AFC Wisewood next Sunday, but if they don't win, Crookes will take it if they win at Brunsmeer.

Norton Oaks finally got some reward for keeping going despite being rooted to the foot of the table for most of the season when they beat Cotts FC 5-0 - a result that saw Cotts replace Oaks at the bottom on goal difference. Jon Allen, Atty Aydinli and Khalid Muhrez combined to cross for Andrew Bokea to give Oaks a half-time lead.

The second half saw Tom Blacksell claim three assists. The first saw his cross turned into his own net by a defender and the second allowed Bokea to score his second of the game. Joe Baker then set Bokea up to complete his hat-trick, before Blacksell set Baker up to complete the scoring from close range.

16 APRIL – COUNTY FA SUNDAY TROPHY FINAL – Loca in the final this weekend – Division 1 Loca FC will face Barnsley's Shaw Inn in the County FA Sunday Trophy Final on Sunday 19 April at the Olympic Legacy Park, Kick-off at 10am. Loca are the 16th of our clubs to have made the final since 2000 and they will be aiming to be our 10th winner of the Trophy.

16 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Boynton and Chapeltown bring their losing streaks to an end to boost survival hopes – Boynton Sports ended their 8 match losing streak with a crucial victory at relegation rivals Jubilee Rangers. From the kick off it was Boynton that took charge and they took home the three points with two goals in each half giving them a 4-0 victory. Luke Walker hit a debut hat-trick for them with the other coming from Lee Jordan. One more win could be enough for Boynton, but that defeat leaves Jubilee only just above the bottom three and they may need to win at least two of their last 4 games to have a chance of staying up.

Chapeltown RBL ended their 3 match losing streak and a run of just 1 win in 12 with a 3-1 victory over another relegation rival, Nailmakers in an entertaining contest. The breakthrough arrived after 10 minutes and it had a touch of debut sparkle about it. Mitch Cowlishaw, making his first appearance, threaded a clever pass through to Adam Todd, who danced around his defender with a neat flick before calmly slotting past the keeper to make it 1-0. Nailmakers responded well and pulled level on 21 minutes with a Sam Read strike restoring balance to the game just as RBL looked to be settling into their rhythm.

RBL hit back strongly though, and on 32 minutes Todd turned provider, spotting Jacob Walkland’s run, he slipped him in and Walkland produced a composed finish, delicately chipping the keeper from 18 yards to put RBL back in front. The lead was doubled just three minutes later. Danny Booth picked out Charlie Cope, who took aim from 20 yards and rifled an effort beyond the helpless keeper to make it 3-1. RBL continued to threaten after the break and could have added more goals, with Jed Phillips coming close to extending the advantage, only to be denied by fine goalkeeping. At the other end, Lewis Fox stood firm, repelling everything Nailmakers threw at him to ensure RBL saw out a vital win.

Chapeltown will probably need at least 3 more wins from their last 5 games to have a chance of being safe and Nailmakers will need to win at least one of their last three to improve their chances.

Towards the top of the table, Stannington Village kept their title hopes alive with a 4-1 victory at 4th place Wickersley CC. Stannington took the lead when a Luca DeFalci cross bundled home at the far post by Niall Butchaart, A second soon came when another Luca DeFalco pass allowed Joel Purkiss to finished well onto the top corner. The third came when Niall Loughlin was brought down in the area and Aemad Gadour finished well from the spot. Their 4th before half-time was the goal of the game when Joel Purkiss found Niall Loughlin who ran 20 yards before he unleashed a strike from just outside the box into the roof of the net.

After the break Wickersley came into the game morw and pulled one back through Billy Wright, but they could only create half chances after that and the Stannington defence hld firm to take them back up to second place, but leaders Royal Earl will be crowned champions for a second successive season if they win just one of their final two games.

16 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Hackenthorpe back on top, but Brunsmeer push them hard – Hackenthorpe went back to the top of Division 1 with a hard earned, narrow 4-3 victory over a stubborn Brunsmeer. Hackenthorpe flew out of traps and took an early lead through Leighton Sawyer slotting past the keeper. Second goal come from Kydn Grey with a great finish from outside the box to the bottom corner, assisted by Man of the Match James Goodwin. Brunsmeer hit back and goals from Gaz Murdoch and Blaine Pashley ibrought them level. Hackenthorpe went back in front when Chad Gibson nipped in to score his 14th of the season after the keeper had saved Nathan Hunts over head kick. Callum Foster doubled their lead when he fired past the keeper from outside the box again. Brunsmeer didn't give up and Charlie Wheatley scored their third but Hackenthorpe held on.

12 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Stannington stay in the title hunt and Southey boost their survival hopes – Stannington Village beat Jubilee Rangers 4-2 to keep their title hopes alive, but leaders Royal Earl need to win just one of their final two games to retain their title. Jubilee are fighting to stay up and took the lead when Luke Campbell scrambled the ball home, but Stannington hit back to level when Niall Butchart sidefooted the ball into the top corner. Undeterred by that it was Jubilee that went into the half time break with the lead after Alfie Smith headed home.

Stannington stepped up a gear after the break and levelled a second time when Niall Loughins shot was saved, but the rebound fell kindly for Leo Higgins to score. Stannington went in front when Sami Eric robbed a defender before chipping the keeper and the clinched the points 5 minutes from time when Tom Staniland’s free kick was parried to Luca DeFalco and he netted his seventh of the season.

At the other end of the table, that defeat for Jubilee boosted Southey Social’s survival hopes and they were further boosted by a 3-1 victory over the already relegated Woodman. Southey took a first half lead when Byron Mullen’s throw was headed on by Kieran Hopkinson and Carlton Carty volleyed home from 6 yards.

The second half saw Southey’s lead doubled when a Jack Dickens cross was turned into his own net by a defender, but Woodman got back into the match with a Kai Walker strike. Southey quickly restored their two goal lead when Mullen set Ryan Whitney up for an easy finish and even though Carty and Dickens both hit the woodwork Southey couldn’t add to it. Action from the game is below - pictures from Ian Anderson

Southey were further helped by Chapeltown RBL’s 1-0 defeat at a Wickersley CC aiming for the runner-up spot. After a cagey, goalless first half the game sprang into life after the break and became an end-to-end battle. Adam Todd saw his effort cleared off the line and the game looked to be swinging RBL’s way when Wickersley were reduced to 10 men. The Wickersley defence held firm though and with time running out it was Wickersley that grabbed a dramatic winner when Owen Kelly scored.

12 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Loca are promoted, but the chase below them goes large – Loca reclaimed top spot and guaranteed promotion with a narrow 2-1 victory at AC Wisewood. They took the lead when Jamie Goldenburgh set Cammy Evans up and found the net with a 30 yard strike, but Wisewood levelled with an equally impressive strike by Will Osgathorpe. Goldenburgh again provided the assist when a third impressive strike, this time by Mitch Carlton won it for Loca to take them back to the top and guarantee promotion.

The two clubs chasing the final promotion place both had big wins. Mosborough Reds beat Kelham Island 8-1 and Crookes won 7-1 at Cotts. Mosborough took just 6 minutes to take the lead with a Will Hotchin strike and they soon doubled it when Ash Hotchin chipped the keeper. Will Hotchin then netted his second when his keeper flew straight into the net. Matt Ellis made it four with a shot from the edge of the area and it was five before half-time when Ben Dronfield headed home.

After the break Matt Ellis scored his second of the game to take his tally for the season to fourteen, before Montelle netted his first goal for Mosborough to make it seven. Billy Kitchen hit number eight before Kelham scored their consolation through Alex Simons.

Crookes were just as impressive in their 7-1 win at Crookes. Dylan Murphy met a cross to give Crookes an early lead and it was doubled when Harvey Allatt met a corner to score. Oli McQuillin made it three before half-time and both he and Murphy scored two each to complete hat-tricks in the second half. Jake Abrahams netted Cotts consolation. Crookes must now rely on winning their final game and Mosborough Reds not winning both of their final two games.

11 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Baby Shark Resign from the League – The League is sorry to report that Baby Shark has resigned from the League. Because the team had completed 75% of its games this season, all their remaining games will be awarded to their opponents.

9 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Barker's late show rescues a point for Reds – After scoring a late goal in the first half, Harry Barker scored an even later goal in the second half to rescue a point for Mosborough Reds at promotion rivals Loca FC. A terrific through ball from Danny Richards allowed Cam Evans to give Loca the lead and only a last ditch tackle stopped Michael Golland from doubling the lead. Reds grew into the game and in the last few minutes of the first half a long throw was flicked on for Barker to strike the ball home at the back post.

The second half saw both teams going for a winner and it looked like it was Loca that would take maximum points when Kurtis Havenhand struck a terrific free kick from 30 yards into the top corner. Reds kept plugging away without testing the Loca keeper until the last minute when Barker raced onto a through ball, rounded the keeper and coolly put the ball into the net. The resuult means that both Loca and Reds can still take the title and both need just two wins to secure promotion.

6 APRIL – MONTAGU CUP – BIG BEN CLINCHES BIG WIN FOR HISTORY MAKERS WICKERSLEY – In an endearing storyline as old as the Mexborough Montagu Cup itself - underdogs upsetting the odds in the big final. Well, history-makers Wickersley CC can now be added to the list of those who have stunned the favourites on Easter Monday. Unfancied everywhere except in their own dressing room, Wickersley shocked the favourites Gate Inn by edging a tight final 2-1 after extra-time in front of 1,475 at Mexborough Athletic.

They deserved it too, veteran Ben Thornton - a big handful all game for the Gate back line - netting the winner just five minutes from the end with the calmest of finishes. It also completed a personal hat-trick as he was in the AFP side which won the Mont in 2014 and 2016 (also scoring in that one). They are the first side from Wickersley to lift the coveted trophy in the competition’s 129 years and also the first side from the Blades Super Draw League to do so. Consider that they knocked out local giants Westville in the semi-final and now Gate, clear leaders of the Rotherham Sunday League and, like Westville, through to the Sheffield Sunday Senior Cup Final on April 19th. Some double that!

Wickersley started brightly and got the boost of an 8th minute goal. Louis Seddons, a lively threat throughout wide left, got clear on that side and his low ball in was diverted into his own net by Jack Greeves with Thornton behind him waiting to do the same. Inside 60 seconds Greeves almost redeemed himself with a header from a corner which Pete Smith superbly turned away.

The early setback had jolted Gate into decisive action and they should have levelled only for Steve Taylor to put a great chance wide. But the equaliser did come on the half-hour, Nathan Walsh finding himself in space from a through ball. He lifted his effort past the advancing Smith and Jordan Pilling helped himself to one of the Mont’s easiest-ever goals from about a yard out. Josh Hemmingway and Josh Stead both fired over, but Wickersley went closest right on half-time, Reece Dudhill clearing off the line from a header by Liam Tomlinson.

The teams rather cancelled each out in the second half, Wickersley’s teamwork nullifying the prolific Gate attack although Greeves powered a header straight at the keeper. Both Seddons and sub Dec Mullane, with more time than he probably realised, could have snatched it late on for Wickersley. Man of the Match Thornton (pictured right receiving his award) fired just over following a free-kick at the start of extra-time and Taylor almost broke the deadlock moments after the second period started.

With thoughts turning to penalties and 115 minutes on the clock, a Gate threat was checked inside the area, and from deep inside his own half, Mullane’s longest of long balls drifted on the breeze, down the famous slope and, suddenly, Thornton’s eyes lit up. He realised that the ball was carrying beyond his marker and he eased onto it and was clear.

Breaths were held… time stood still… but the veteran striker kept a cool head and sidefooted calmly wide of the advancing Hayden Barnett and just inside the left hand post. Gate looked stunned, couldn’t mount a late surge and so Wickersley went into the history books. Thornton was named Man of the Match edging out centre half Nathan Taylor (left) who had an outstanding game as Wickersley rose to the occasion as a team and no one could begrudge them their triumph. (report courtesy of Les Payne) Pictures from the game including Ben Thornton scoring the winner, are below

WICKERSLEY CC: Smith; Kelly, Taylor, Cuckson, Claxton; France (McGann 105), Tomlinson (Nix 105); Hardeman (Mullane 60), Daughtry, Seddons (Godley 118); Thornton. Unused: Kemp.

GATE INN: Barnett; Dudhill, Ardron, Greeves (Hough 68), Blackwood; James (Middleton 117), Hemmingway (Hancock 100), Stead; Pilling, Walsh, Taylor. Unused: Moore.

Referee: Roger Webb (Mexborough).

5 APRIL – CBC PREMIER – Eckington push RBL to the edge and Sixers hold Village – Eckington MW came from behind to win 2-1 at a Chapeltown RBL now 6 points from safety with just one game in hand. Chapeltown got off to a flier with the wind at their backs and Josh Nodder took full advantage when he launched the ball from inside his own half to beat the keeper. It stayed like that until half-time, but it all changed after the break.

Dan White ran onto a ball behind the defence to equalise and soon after a scramble in the box wrong footed the keeper and it allowed Aiden Horspool to net his 13^th goal of the season to give Eckington a lead the protected until the end.

Despite coming back from two down, Stannington Village’s title chances took a blow when they were held to a 4-4 draw by Wadsley Bridge Sixers. George Rudd fired Sixers into a 6^th minute lead, but Stannington hit back when Dan White headed home from a Joel Purkiss corner. Stannington then went ahead when another Purkiss corner went into the net off a defender.

It was Sixers turn to hit back with a Rob Farrell strike and they went ahead a second time with Chris Belshaw’s 18^th league goal of the season. The CBC Premier’s leading scorer, Belshaw, then took his tally to 19 to give Sixers a 4-2 half-time lead. Stannington had been reduced to 10 men, but got back into it with a Luca DeFalco penalty and they grabbed a deserved point 5 minutes from time when a DeFalco cross was headed home by Aemad Gadour. Action from the game is below - pictures from Ian Anderson.

5 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Hackenthorpe are promoted, but Crookes chances take a hit – A Xavier Dandrade double helped Hackenthorpe to a 3-0 victory over AFC Wisewood and confirm their promotion to the top flight. Hackenthorpe went in front when Harrison Case whipped in a quality cross that was met with a cool finish by Dandrade. The lead was soon doubled when a Chad Gibson shot was saved by the keeper but Dandrade was on hand to put the ball home with a cheeky backheel. The second half was dominated by Hackenthorpe, but they could only add when Gibson used his pace to race onto a terrific through ball from Aston Thompson and score.

None of the teams below the top three can now catch Hackenthorpe after Crookes were held to a 1-1 draw at Kelham Island. Crookes took an early lead through Tom Rickers and created lots of chances afterwards. They didn’t take them and Kelham Island made them pay with an Alex Simons equaliser.

Crookes’ result was also good news for Loca, who moved up to second and improve their promotion chances with a 4-1 victory at Brunsmeer. Jamie Hopkins gave Loca the lead midway through the first half when he turned a defender before slamming the ball home from 25 yards. Hopkins then took advantage of a defensive error to set Logan Liggins up for an easy finish to take his tally to 18 League goals for the season.

Loca made it 3 after the break when Cam Evans crossed for Mitch Kent to head home and Evans again provided the assist for Curt Modest to make it 4. Brunsmeer never gave up though and gained a consolation when their leading scorer Gaz Murdoch scored his 13^th goal of the season.

5 APRIL - Belshaw and Liggins lead the goalscoring charts – The CBC Premier's leading scorer with 19 goals is Chris Belshaw of Wadsley Bridge Sixers, 6 goals cear of second place Aiden Horspool of Eckington MW. Division 1's top marksman is Loca's Logan Liggins on 18 goals and just 4 goals behind him on 14 is Division 1 Crookes' Oliver McQuillin. The Leading scorer for all teams can now be found in the Results section.

2 APRIL - DIVISION 1 – Thorncliffe Villa Resign from the League – The League is sorry to report that Thorncliffe Villa has resigned from the League. Because the team has not yet played 75% of its games this season, all their games will be removed from the records.

29 MARCH – MONTAGU CUP – Wickersley CC in the Montagu Cup Final on Easter Monday – After victory over the Mexborough Sunday League Champions Westville, Wickersley CC will face the Rotherham & District Premier Division leaders The Gate Inn in the Montagu Cup Final on Easter Monday, 6 April at Mexborough Athletic's Firepart Stadium on Hampden Road, Mexborough S64 9JN. The game has an 11am kick-off and entrance - CASH ONLY - is £4 for Adults, £2 for Concessions and Children of Primary School age are free if accompanied by an adult. Receipts are primarily donated to the Montagu Hospital Comforts Fund. More detail about the competition can be found at https://www.montagucup.com/. The competition is believed to be the world's oldest to be still played at its original venue. Go along and support Wickersley.

29 MARCH – LEAGUE CUP – Brandon Bags a Final spot for Earl – Royal Earl went through to their 4th final in 5 years after Brandon Bagley hit a second half winner in the second semi-final against Nailmakers. Pictured right is Bagley on the left celebrating his winner (picture courtesy of Ian Anderson). In difficult conditions it was Earl that struck first when a corner was flicked onto the back post and Owen Haigh applied the finish. Earl began to dominate and only a terrific save by Nailmakers keeper Luke Herriott stopped Earl doubling their lead. It was quickly followed by an even more amazing goal line block by Ryan Goodison to again keep Earl out.

As the game approached half-time Nailmakers began to get a foothold in the game and that continued straight after the break when Jay Glover fed Sam Read and his shot beat the keeper to bring Nailmakers level. Both sides continued to go toe-to-toe, but Earl eventually began to get on top and only another great save by Herriott stopped them going back in front. He then pushed another shot onto the bar and pushed the follow up onto the post but Bagley was first to the rebound and he tucked the ball into the corner of the net to give Earl a 2-1 win. More action from the game is below, courtesy of Ian Anderson:

Royal Earl will play Wadsley Bridge Sixers in the final later in the season.

29 MARCH – CBC PREMIER – Joel Purks Stannington up and Lamkin boosts Jubilee's survival – A late Joel Purkiss goal against Boynton Sports gave Stannington Village a 3-2 win that keeps them in the title race. Jake Gamban gave Boynton the lead until it was cancelled out when Sam Hackett played the ball to Aemad Gadour and he cut inside before bending the ball into the top corner.

Boynton re-took the lead with a Jack Bennett strike and looked as if they might hold on, but a good cross by Brad Worsfold was volleyed home by Connor Platts and in the final minutes Gadour squared the ball for Joel Purkiss to hit Stannington’s winner.

At the other end of the table Jubilee Rangers took a big step towards safety as a Ross Lamkin hat-trick helped them to a 4-1 victory at Eckington MW. Jubilee looked the more likely to score and gained a first half lead when Liam Hill-Simmons crossed for Lamkin to score. Jubilee continued to look the more likely to score after the break and doubled their lead when Adam Darton’s shot was saved by the keeper, but Lamkin was on hand to push home the rebound.

Hill-Simmons then blasted home a third for Jubilee, but Eckington pulled one back when they were awarded a penalty and Ethan Flower beat the keeper from the spot. Any thought of a comeback was soon quashed when Lamkin volleyed into the top corner to complete his hat-trick and seal the points for Jubilee.

What made it better day for Jubilee was that the two teams just below them both suffered narrow defeats. Chapeltown RBL slipped to a narrow 2-1 home defeat against Wadsley Bridge Sixers. After a goalless first half, Sixers should have gone in front when they were awarded a penalty, but, for the second week in a row, RBL keeper produced a great save to keep the game level.

From the save the ball was swept upfield and when Charlie Cope crossed, left back Jacob Walkland was on hand to sweep the ball home to give RBL the lead. RBL then missed several chances to double their lead and the paid for those misses when a well worked corner routine allowed Brad Howe to equalise and it got worse for RBL when Chris Belshaw grabbed a winner for Sixers.

Southey Social also couldn’t keep pace with Jubilee and suffered a 3-2 defeat at Wickersley CC. Wickersley took a deserved lead when Matt Claxton latched onto a loose ball before firing home from close range. Southey then grew into the game and after Jack Hawkes had missed a sitter, a long throw into the box fell to Todd Guest and he beat the keeper.

The second half saw Southey make a fast start and Ryan Hall smashed the ball into the top corner from 25 yards to put them ahead. Byron Mullen then missed a great chance to double Southey’s lead and instead it was Wickersley that started to dominate and they equalised with an Alex Kemp header at the back post. Hawkes then had another chance saved by the Wickersley keeper and instead it was Wickersley that grabbed the winner when Claxton’s overhead kick nestled in the bottom corner.

29 MARCH - DIVISION 1 – Gibson's the guy as Hackenthorpe bust Loca's home record – Two late Chad Gibson goals saw leaders Hackenthorpe end second place Loca's unbeaten home record to improve Hackenthorpe’s chances of taking the title. That result didn’t look likely when Loca completed a good start by taking the lead. Michael Golland headed the ball across goal for Jamie Hopkins to smash the ball into the roof of the net to give Loca a half-time lead.

It was a complete change in the second half with Hackenthorpe dominating affairs. They still couldn’t break down a resilient Loca defence until with time running out Gibson unleashed a 25 yard thunderbolt into the top corner. In the final minutes a scramble in the box saw Travis Vintin push the ball for Gibson to hit the winner and end Loca’s record. Loca can still overtake the leaders, but may now have to win all their remaining games to do it.

That defeat saw Loca slip a place as Mosborough Reds moved up to second with a 2-0 victory over Cotts. Although Cotts were reduced to ten men they kept the game goalless until the hour mark when a Billy Kitchen shot gave Reds the lead. Soon after a whipped in cross saw Kitchen head his second at the front post to seal the points for Reds.

AFC Wisewood's chances of a top three finish were hit when they lost a 3 goal lead before drawing 3-3 with Brunsmeer. Two from Will Osgathorpe and one from Alfie Wright gave Wisewood a three goal lead early in the second half, but Brunsmeer woke up and claimed a point thanks to goals from Ollie Tracey, Charlie Wheatley and Brad Leather.

Jonathan Fusco hit a hat-trick as Baby Shark won 5-2 at Kelham Island. One for Fusco and one for Kenneth Obazuaye saw the teams level at half-time. Another from Obazuaye and one from Jahmal Riley saw the teams level at 2-2 with just 5 minutes remaining, but a penalty turned the game Sharks way. Fusco scored twice to complete his hat-trick with one from Jordan Slew.

24 MARCH – Fixtures for APRIL & MAY now shown - The Fixtures & Referees for APRIL & MAY have been added to the Fixtures section of the League website – www.sssl.org.uk. Home teams must confirm their pitch is available and booked ASAP. There could be fixture changes if either pitches or referees aren't available on the dates shown.

22 MARCH – LEAGUE CUP – Late Barnsley strike swings it for Sixers – A last gasp Danny Barnsley (pictured right) strike swung the League Cup semi-final Wadsley Bridge Sixers way against local rivals Stannington Village. It was a game where both defences were on top form and an edgy first half saw just once chance when Luca DeFalco was put through, but Sixers keeper Joel Statham came out to bloke the shot before clearing it upfield.

The second half again saw not many chances, but after Stannington had a period when they had more of the play, with Sixers Luke Allison, Brad Howe and Josh Statham having more influence on the game it began to swing Sixers way. A great strike by Jordan Stocks was brilliantly saved by Village keeper Harley Middleton, but with the game looking certain to go to a penalty shootout, Danny Barnsley went on a mazy run that ended with him slamming home the winning goal. Pictures of match action are courtesy of Ian Anderson.

Sixers will meet either Royal Earl or Nailmakers in the final, with Earl and Nailmakers playing their semi-final next Sunday 29 March at Warminster Road, with an 11am kick-off.

22 MARCH – CBC PREMIER – Earl edge closer to the title, but things getting tight at the bottom – Royal Earl beat Boynton Sports 2-0 to edge closer to the title. Theo Wilson opened the scoring with a simple finish and Brandon Bagley made it 2-0 after a mistake from keeper. If Earl win their final 3 games they will be cvhampions.

The bottom end of the table is getting very tight after a 2-1 defeat for Southey Social at home to Wickersley CC and Woodman’s surprise goalless draw at Chapeltown RBL. In an entertaining game both Southey and their visitors Wickersley had chances, but couldn't convert until just before the break when a ball over the top left Wickersley striker clean through, but he couldn't convert and the ball rolled back to the edge of the box where Ben Thornton’s shot and went through the defender’s legs on the line.

The game continued like the first half with both teams having chances and Southey levelled the score when Jack Hawkes raced onto a ball in the channel from Ryan Whitney and fired high into the roof of the net. Southey then had 2 great chances. The first saw Carlton Carty clean through, but although his shot beat the keeper it landed the wrong side of the post. This was quickly followed by Luke Broadbent having a close range effort well saved by the Wickersley keeper.

Wickersley then had two great chances of their own that saw Southey keeper Harrison Lee make two quality saves, but with just a minute on the clock Wickersley took the points when Lee could only push a shot back into the Nathan Taylor’s path and he made no mistake from close range.

At Chapeltown RBL, a game between the bottom two was a tense, hard-fought encounter saw bottom club Woodman come away with a 0–0 draw. The standout moment came early on when RBL keeper Lewis Fox pulled off a superb penalty save, diving sharply to his left to deny Woodman and keep his side level. It proved a crucial intervention in a game where chances were at a premium.

RBL grew into the match in the second half and came closest to breaking the deadlock, rattling the crossbar with a powerful effort and Javad Hefferan testing the Woodman keeper with a well-struck shot. Despite both sides pushing, neither could find the finishing touch, leaving it honours even at full time. Chapeltown’s only consolation was that the point lifted them up a place above Southey, but for Woodman it means that it fourth bottom Jubilee Rangers win one more game Woodman will be relegated.

22 MARCH - DIVISION 1 – Top 3 all win, but Crookes move into contention – Leaders Hackenthorpe FC stayed top with a 4-1 victory over Cotts. Hackenthorpe got off to a flying start, showing sharpness early on with an opening goal from Kian Holloway. It was a composed finish, set up nicely by Chad Gibson. The duo combined again shortly after, with Holloway grabbing his second of the game—this time lifting a clever lob over the goalkeeper. Cotts FC managed to pull one back before half-time with a simple tap-in by Ty Gunter to keep them in the contest.

The second half proved to be a scrappy affair, with Hackenthorpe creating chances, but struggling to fully capitalize. However, the breakthrough eventually came when a move started from a saved shot by Callum Foster, followed by good work from Lee Thompson and ended when George Bemba rose well to head home their third goal. Hackenthorpe sealed the victory with their fourth goal when Lee Thompson threaded a precise pass through for Callum Foster and he made no mistake in front of goal.

Loca stayed second with an even more convincing 9-1 win at Baby Shark. Loca came out the blocks in the first 2 minutes with a goal from man of the match Mitch Kent assisted by Logan Liggins and minutes later Jamie Hopkins slammed home a second. Jamie Goldenburgh made it three with a stunning free kick for his first of the season, before Cammy Evans set up Logan Liggins to make it four by half-time.

After the break Josh Baxter set Liggins up for his second, before Liggins turned provider for Call Spencer to hit Loca’s sixth. Rion Arbourn netted a penalty that turned out to be Sharks only consolation before Hopkins set Callum Spencer up for Loca’s seventh. Evans then provided the assist for Liggins to complete his hat-trick and the scoring was completed when Hopkins provided the assist got Goldenburgh to net his second.

Mosborough Reds stayed third with a narrow 3-2 win at Brunsmeer. Both sides could only fashion half chances in a goalless first half, but the second half was only minutes old when Gaz Murdoch gave Brunsmeer the lead. Reds hit back immediately to level with an Alix Sorsby free-kick. Soon after Sorsby put another effort just wide, but it didn’t take long for their leading scorer Matt Ellis to put Reds ahead with a header at the back post.

Brunsmeer hit back to level with a second from Murdoch, but they were then put under intense pressure by Reds and after going close three times, in the third minute of added time Billy Kitching hit the winner when the keeper spilled the ball.

Crookes moved above AFC Wisewood into fourth by beating them 4-3. Hamish Adamson gave Crookes a second minute lead following a throw-in and Oli McQuillin doubled it soon after. A Tom Rickers volley made it 3-0 until Jay Travis pulled one back before half-time. McQuillin netted his second after the break and it was needed as Wisewood pulled two back through Joe Daley and Leo Edgar, but Crookes held on to go above their visitors.

A Kenneth Obazuaye double and one each for Sam Clark and Alex Simmons helped Kelham Island ended a run of defeats with a 4-0 victory at Thorncliffe Villa. Dominating from start to finish, Kelham were 3-0 up at half time with some classy finishing. They added another in the second half and perhaps should have scored more.

15 MARCH – SUNDAY TROPHY – Logan’s run takes Loca to the Final – Helped by a Logan Liggins (pictured left) double, Loca made it to the County FA Sunday Trophy Final with a 3-1 semi-final victory against fellow Blades Super Draw League Division 1 side Crookes. Loca went on the front foot from the start and opened the scoring when Oli Grady was brought down in the area and Liggins put the penalty away.

With man of the match Jamie Goldenburgh keeping Loca in control it stayed like that until the second half and they doubled their lead when Aaron Williamson’s cross was headed home by Liggins. Crookes never gave up and in the last few minutes they got a lifeline when Hamish Adamson pulled one back. They then threw everyone forward, but were inevitably caught on the break when Cam Evans supplied the pass for Grady to clinch Loca’s final place. They will meet Barnsley Championship side Shaw Inn in the final on 19 April after their 3-1 victory over Thurlstone.

15 MARCH – CBC PREMIER – Nailmakers dent Eckington’s title hopes and Cowell hit 4 for RBL – Nailmakers moved further away from the relegation zone by putting a big dent in Eckington MW’s title hopes with a 2-0 victory over them. Eckington should have taken the lead when they were awarded a penalty, but Lestyn Jones spot kick was well saved by Luke Herriott in the Nailmakers goal.

It remained goalless until the second half when Sam Read broke the deadlock when he beat his defender in the air to head home. It stayed like that until the final minute when Dan Beech hit a goal of the season contender with a blockbuster from 40 yard that left the keeper helpless.

Wadsley Bridge Sixers title hopes were also hit as they were held to a very entertaining 3-3 draw by another relegation battler in Jubilee Rangers. Jubilee raced into a first minute lead when a good move was finished by Brendan Reid-Flanagan. Sixers hit back with a Luke Beedham header from a throw in. A terrific run and by Danny Barnsley paved the way for Chris Belshaw to then give Sixers the lead, but Alfie Smith equalised by bundling the ball home to send the teams in level at the break.

The second half started much like the first with Reid-Flanagan racing through the Sixers defence to put Jubilee in front again. With 15 minutes remaining Sixers hit back to level with a Josh Statham strike, with a draw being the right result from a good contest.

Stannington Village made no mistake though with a 3-1 victory at a Boynton Sports that has now slipped into the bottom half. Sami Eric gave Stannington a 20^th minute lead when he finished from the edge of the box. The lead was doubled soon after when Luca DeFalco’s shot took a slight deflection into the bottom corner and it was three before half time when a flick-on by DeFalco was finished by Eric from a tight angle. Boynton never gave up and did manage a consolation goal in the second half when Luke Highton netted for them for the first time.

Chapeltown RBL gave their survival hopes a boost as Morgan Cowell (pictured right) scored 4 in their win at Woodman. RBL took an early lead when Adam Todd set Cowell up for his first. He netted his second after Charlie Cope played a clever pass through the home defence and he completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before half-time after Luis Afonso-Ferriera had been brought down in the area.

RBL continued on top after the break and made it four when skipper Alex Mosley picked out Todd to finish well. Cowell completed the scoring when he volleyed home a Jacob Walkland cross to claim his fourth of the day.

15 MARCH - DIVISION 1 – Hackenthorpe stay top, but crucial wins for Reds and Wisewood – Leaders Hackenthorpe stayed top, but Mosborough Reds kept up the chase with a narrow 1-0 win at Kelham Island. A quiet first half ended goalless and the second was going the same way until Sam Rowden netted his first goal for the Reds. Kelham stayed in the game and looked a threat at times, but it was Reds that almost scored a second when their skipper Jak Hotchin headed against the post.

AFC Wisewood also stayed in the hunt with a much more convincing 6-1 victory at Cotts thanks to the help of a Leo Edgar treble. Will Osgathorpe netted two and Joe Daley hit Wisewood’s other, with Michael Blythen netting the home side’s consolation. Pictured left is AFC Wisewood wearing a kit as a tribute to their friend Harry Hartley who passed away in December.

Baby Shark came from behind to win 3-2 at Norton Oaks. Goals from James Addy and Andrew Bokea gave Oaks a 2-1 lead at the break despite Fabian Johnson’s strike for Shark, but the second half saw strikes by Daniel Ramsey and Jerome Slew win it for Shark.

8 MARCH – CBC PREMIER – Platts treble keeps Stannington in the hunt, but Earl still favourites –Royal Earl will retain the title if they win their final two games after winning 2-1 at Boynton Sports. Johno Williams hit a 30 yard free kick to put Earl ahead and Liam O Brien made it 2-0 with a simple finish. Boyton did all they could to break the Earl defence and they finally did it late in the game with a Jake Gamban goal, but Earl saw the game out.

Stannington Village are now the only team that can deny Royal Earl the title after a 5-0 victory over Southey Social. They took the lead when a corner fell to Dan White and he volleyed high in the roof of the net. They doubled the lead before half-time when Sam Hackett crossed for Aemad Gadour to rise well and head over the keeper,

On the hour Joel Purkiss’ pass allowed sub Connor Platts to net his first and soon after the same pair combined again for Platts to tap home his second. Platts completed his hat-rick when a cross-field ball from Tom Staniland found Purkiss and he squared for Platts to score at the second attempt. Had it not been for Southey’s keeper and MOM Rob Oxley making some outstanding saves the score would have been much more

Relegation threatened Nailmakers moved further away from the drop with a 3-1 victory over a Woodman side now just one more result away from certain relegation. Nailmakers started very slow and couldn't really get a foot hold in the game then it went from bad to worse when a defensive mix up lead to Ryan Hall giving Woodman the lead. This gave Nailmakers the kick they needed and Andy Taylor get on the end of a cross to put the teams level at the break.

After the break Nailmakers had a change of shape which worked to their advantage and they took the lead with a Dan Beech header. Shortly after it was 3-1 when Jack Joyce nodded home from a scrabble in the box. Nailmakers kept the ball well to make sure Woodman couldn't get back into it.

Jubilee entertained neighbours Wadsley Bridge Sixers for a game which both sides were determined to win, but it was Sixers that came away with the points thanks to a single George Rudd strike. Jubilee started out of the traps fast and created plenty of chances, but couldn’t make them count and Wadsley made them pay a great cross in was tapped home by Rudd. Jubilee rallied and created more and more chances but couldn’t make them count and the same story continued into the second half but Sixers held firm to get the win.

Eckington kept up the chase for a top three finish by edging a tight game with former champions Chapeltown RBL 1-0. The decisive moment came midway through the first half when after a quick break forward the ball fell to the feet of Aiden Horspool and he rifled it home.

RBL pushed hard after the break and created several promising chances. Afonso Ferreira twice came closest to equalising, one effort rolled just wide of the post, while another was denied by a strong save from the Eckington goalkeeper. Morgan Cowell also had two good attempts in the second half as RBL increased the pressure in search of a leveller, but Eckington held firm. At the other end, Lewis Fox played a key role in keeping Chap RBL in the game, producing a number of impressive saves throughout the match to prevent Eckington from extending their lead. Despite the late pressure and several near misses, Chap RBL couldn’t find the equaliser and Eckington held on to secure the win.

8 MARCH - DIVISION 1 – Hackenthorpe stay top, but Crookes slip up at Reds –Leaders Hackenthorpe came away from promotion rivals AFC Wisewood with a narrow 3-2 victory. Hackenthorpe took the lead when Aston Thompson provided the pass for Chad Gibson tap in. They doubled their lead when a fast paced cross from Harrison Case found a sliding Xavier Dandrade at back post.

Wisewood came out second half with grit between their teeth and goals from Will Osgathorpe and Oliver Scott brought them level. With game on a knife edge it could have gone either way with game opening up and chances at both ends. None were taken until Kydn Gray found Nathan Hunt in space, and he in turn found Xavier Dandrade’s dancing feet in an area with legs flying all over, but he composed himself and nestled the ball into bottom corner with his wrong foot for the winner. Pictures from the game shown below.

Mosborough Reds moved up to third with a 3-1 victory over a Crookes that had a depleted squad. Goals from Harrison Barker, Ash Hotchin and Ben Dronfield in first half put Reds in control and although Crookes pulled one back through Oli McQuillin mid-way through second they couldn’t breach the Reds defence again.

Brunsmeer gained their second away win of the season in style with a 5-1 victory over Kelham Island. Gareth Murdoch did most of the damage with four goals along with one from Taylor Askham. Oliver Maltby netted one for Kelham mid-way through the second half, but never really looked like getting back into the game.

Baby Shark gained their best win of the season with a 5-1 victory over Cotts. First half goals from Jahmal Riley, Cole Whitham and Keiron Sykes-Tobin put Shark in control. Roma Myers and Dan Ramsey added two more after the break making Chris Salt’s penalty for Cotts just a consolation.

1 MARCH – CBC PREMIER – Earl make it an unlucky 13 for the rest – Royal Earl widened their lead at the top to 13 points with an emphatic 4-1 victory at second place Wadsley Bridge Sixers. Royal Earl captain Joe Turner made it 1-0 after 6 mins with a header from a corner, but Sixes hit back to level before half-time with a Kane Doughty finish. The second half saw Earl retake the lead with a Connor Chapell penalty before Brandon Bagley made it 3-1 with a nice finish. Ashley Cooper made it 4-1 with a simple tap-in.

Stannington Village lost ground in the title race when they were held to a goalless draw by relegation threatened Nailmakers. With a very depleted Nailmakers squad it was as expected that Stannington took the game to them, but offered very little in the first half and it could have been Nailmakers that took the lead when a good save stopped Jack Joyce scoring with a header. In the second half Stannington rung in the changes, but Nailmakers kept strong and dealt with everything, the only attempt Stannington had on target in the half came when Luca DeFalco went through, but it was tipped around the post by keeper Luke Herriott.

Eckington kept up the chase for a top two finish with a hard earned 2-1 victory at Woodman. Eckington took advantage of a Woodman having to start with 10 men and scored n the first few minutes when a corner into the box was headed down by Lestyn Jones for Aiden Horspool to tap home. Despite Woodman coming into the game more, Eckington doubled their lead in the 38th minute when Horspool was played in down the left hand side to fire home. A very competitive and even matched second half saw Woodman scored deep into the second half when a corner was headed home at the back post by Shaun Garwell, and they were denied a point by a great save from a free kick. Pictures, right and below, from this game are courtesy of Ian Anderson.

Wickersley CC produced one of their best performances of the season to win 4-0 at a Boynton Sports pushing to get into the top five. A first half that saw Wickersley dominate proceedings, but just couldn't quite find that final ball or finish until a great bit of one touch play saw James Hardemen find space and whip a ball to the back post for Ben Thornton to finish.

It stayed like that until the second half with Boynton starting well and pushing Wickersley back, but a good bit of pressing then saw Liam Tomlinson win the ball high up, play a 1 -2 before finding the top corner. Wickersley then took over the game and scored a third when a quick free kick allowed Nathan Taylor to square it for Adam Daughtrey to score. James Hardemen wrapped the scoring up with a tidy finish.

Jubilee climbed out of the bottom three with their second away win of the season, 3-1 at Chapeltown RBL. RBL made the perfect start but were ultimately undone by a clinical Jubilee side. RBLopened the scoring when a dangerous in-swinging corner from Charlie Cope caused problems in the six-yard box and the returning Farbod Yousefi reacted quickest, flicking the ball in at the near post to give RBL a deserved early lead.

It was a bright, energetic opening from RBL, who looked sharp and organised, but Jubilee, responded with composure. They began to control possession and found their equaliser midway through the half, capitalising on a defensive lapse to draw level when Ross Lamkin found himself free to head home. Jubilee got their noses in front before the interval when Liam Hill-Simmons took matters into his own hands and fired home a 20 yard strike to the bottom corner.

RBL pushed to get back into the contest, showing determination and commitment, but clear-cut chances proved hard to come by against a disciplined Jubilee defence. As the game stretched late on, Jubilee made sure of the result with a third goal, when some good midfield work saw a ball fired across for Luke Campbell to tap home to put the outcome beyond doubt.

1 MARCH - DIVISION 1 – Cotts give the leaders a scare – Leaders Hackenthorpe battle to a hard-earned 1-0 victory at Cotts FC. In a scrappy contest played on a terrible pitch, where quality had to shine through sheer determination. Despite the conditions both teams dug deep, competed for every ball, but it was Hackenthorpe that found the moment of quality to take the points.

The breakthrough came in the second half when Harrison Case showed great pace to break away down the flank before delivering a pinpoint cross into the box and waiting at the back post was Xavier Dandrade, who kept his composure and tapped home to seal the win. At the other end, Aston Thompson was an absolute rock once again — dominant in the air, strong in the tackle, and organising everything in front of him to gain a fully deserved Man of the Match award, although Cotts veteran keeper James Newsome pushed him close.

Crookes come from behind to beat Norton Oaks 3-1 and stay in the promotion chase. Crookes were shocked when Oaks took the lead after a corner wasn’t cleared and James Addy tapped it in. Crookes began to create chances and finally replied when Dylan Murphy tapped home a cross to make it level at the break. Norton started the second half well, but it was Crookes that eventually took the lead through Ben Emsley from a corner. Crookes then wrapped up the points with a Cam Ronksley volley.

Loca FC kept up their title chase with a magnificent 7-1 victory over Kelham Island. Loca made a fast start and Jordan Thomas, with the help of Ollie Grady, put them ahead inside 5 minutes. Curtis Modest doubled their lead soon after, set up by Djamel Otmani. Logan Liggins made it three before halt-time from the penalty spot.

The second half saw Jamie Hopkins, on his return bend a 30-yard free kick into the bottom corner, before a foul on Ollie Grady gave Liggins the chance to score his second penalty. Callum Spencer decided subtlety was overrated and lashed one from 25 yards into the top corner, before Kelham grabbed a consolation through Kenneth Obazuaye, but it was Loca that completed the scoring when clever play down the left from Michael Golland, allowed Liggins to complete his hat-trick.

22 FEB – SUNDAY TROPHY – Loca turn the Tap off to reach the semi-finals – Loca FC beat Barnsley's Darton Tap 2-0 to reach the semi-final of the County FA Sunday Trophy. Despite a depleted squad due to the Sheffield Derby game at Bramall Lane, Loca started the game very brightly and took an early lead early when Logan Liggins played a dangerous ball over the top to Cammy Evans and he expertly rifled it past the keeper. Both teams showed the rustiness of not having played much football since before Christmas, but one moment of team magic from Loca came midway through the first half resulted in a goal for Loca, only for it to be ruled out for offside.

Loca's win ensures there will be a Blades Super Draw League team in the final as they travel to fellow Division 1 team Crookes in the semi-final on 15 March It should be a real cracker as Crookes is the only team to have beaten Loca in the League, although Loca did beat them at home. Crookes have scored 31 goals in the competition so far, but Loca are also no slouches in front of goal and have scored 27 in the competition so far.