Match Report: Handsworth 3–1 Penistone Church Women U12

A four-game league winning streak came to an end on Saturday morning as Penistone Church Women U12s made the trip to table-toppers Handsworth.

Despite a six-point deduction earlier in the week following a team’s withdrawal from the league, Penistone’s spirit, pride and determination remained firmly intact. Starting the day in fourth place, and remaining there after other results went their way, the girls showed once again why they are among the league’s strongest sides.

Fast Start from the Hosts

Handsworth began on the front foot, testing Penistone from the first whistle. It was a busy opening spell for goalkeeper Olivia, who delivered a standout performance and was rightly named Girl of the Game. Time and again she denied the hosts with brave saves and commanding work in her area.

The breakthrough eventually came from a well-worked set piece, with Handsworth finishing tidily from close range. A second goal followed in similar fashion before the break, leaving Penistone 2–0 down at half-time and in need of inspiration.

A Strong Response

Two changes at the interval injected fresh energy into the side, and Penistone came out with renewed belief. Midway through the second half, that pressure paid off. A dangerous corner from Liz was whipped into the box, and Angel reacted quickest to pounce and fire home, pulling it back to 2–1 and setting up a tense finish.

The girls pushed hard for an equaliser, showing real character against the league leaders. However, as they committed forward, Handsworth broke away. After striking the bar for the second time in the game, the hosts managed to clip the ball past Olivia to seal the three points and secure a 3–1 victory.

Heads Held High

The scoreline doesn’t tell the full story. Penistone matched the table-toppers for large spells and showed tremendous resilience throughout. They can hold their heads high after a performance full of effort and belief.

Next up is another stern test against Barnsley, but the team can approach it with confidence knowing they more than competed against the league’s best.

Up the Church ⛪⚫⚪