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Tilly Hallas-Potts’ early goal saw Sheffield FC Women grab their first league win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Notts County Women at the MEPS International Home of Football. 

The midfielder netted the decisive goal in the 10th minute when she arrived to head home Eva Butler’s inviting cross from close range.

Club almost added to their lead with Caitlyn Douglas seeing her shot saved by visiting keeper Philipa Davies after a lovely passing move on 21 minutes.

Leah Kellogg proved to be the second half hero with a stunning save on the hour as Club stood against the spell of Notts County pressure to record a first win under Nick Buxton.

A must-win game for Club saw them under pressure early on as Rebecca Matthews stayed alert to clear a low free kick off the line before Jessie Knott headed past the post.

That clicked the hosts into gear as they went ahead when Butler dinked the ball to the back post for Hallas-Potts to nod into an empty net.

Sheffield were causing problems from the set-pieces as well as open play with Amy Pashley’s free-kick almost fumbled in for 2-0 by Davies.

Pip Cassidy then went close as her deflected shot fell into Davies’ hands before an intricate passing move ended with Douglas doing the same from her powerful 

effort on 21 minutes.

The hosts goal was then tested shortly after as Takiah Burnett fired over the bar and then saw her deflected effort fall into the reach of Kellogg.

Buxton’s side looked to extend their lead after the break, but found themselves on the back foot as Kellogg tipped away Katie Potter’s effort on 55 minutes. Less than 60 seconds later the Club defence had to block another shot from Burnett before more heroics from Kellogg saw her deny Knott flicking in from six yards. 

The pressure continued as the home side tried to play their way out, this time Elle Rowson cutting inside and flashing wide of the target. Kellogg then flew into action again late on, standing tall to save a tame effort from Lauren Wilshaw and ensure three points for Sheffield.

A first win since October sees club off the bottom and now a point from safety in the Womens National League Midlands Division One. 

Words: Jayden Burte-Williams