BARNSLEY Women’s FC kept a fourth successive league clean sheet as they won 1-0 at Stockport County on Sunday thanks to a first half own goal.
The Reds are third in the National Women’s Division One North – the fourth tier in England.
They are 12 points behind leaders Durham Cestria who have played two games extra.
Barnsley are now due to visit lowly Norton and Stockton Ancients on Sunday.
Coach Lois Daniels said: “We beat Stockport for the first time in more than two years.
“After going down to watch them mid-week and putting a plan together with the management team and the girls, we went into the game confident, strong and with a plan we knew would work.
“My team started extremely strong, winning their duals, battling for each other, and believing in the squad and gameplan
“A fantastic, solid display from my Reds saw us hit third in the table.
“Now we have back-to-back Sundays against Norton and Stockton followed by two midweek games against Hull City – all set to be exciting games.”
Meanwhile, Barnsley Ladies won 3-2 at Millmoor.The hosts took the lead twice but Louisa Barraclough levelled twice then Lynn Goodman won it in the 87th minute. They have 37 points from 15 games and are six clear at the top with eight to play.
Third-placed Altofts are 12 points behind with four games in hand.
They are now due to visit Harworth Colliery tomorrow.
Manager Jess Horsley said: “I think we made it very hard for ourselves by not getting going in the early stages.
“Credit to Millmoor, they made it hard for us and didn’t allow us time on the ball to get our passing game going.
“But, despite the bad start, I’ve got to give credit to the girls for coming back in the last 15, they dug deep and found a way to win.
“That’s what this team is all about – they work for each other, and that’s why we sit top.
“They’re a great bunch and I think we can go far with them”
In the Sheffield and Hallamshire League, Worsbrough Bridge lost 3-0 at home to Handsworth in Division Two.
Penistone Church won 5-2 at home to Kiveton Park in the Shield.
Dearne and District lost 2-1 at Mosborough. Danielle Burrows netted for the visitors.
