Ben Turner scored the equaliser for Sheffield FC in the 1-1 draw at Shaw Lane Aquaforce
Shaw Lane Aquaforce were unable to continue their winning start as Ben Turner’s second half equaliser earned Sheffield FC a 1-1 draw in Barnsley.
Shaw Lane’s new signing Jonathan Wafula had given them a first half lead in the meeting of one of the country’s youngest Non League clubs and the world’s oldest club.
The Evo Stik Division One South encounter was well-contested and both sides will probably reflect on it as a fair result.
Shaw Lane rode their luck for a lot of the first half as goalkeeper Ian Deakin pulled them out of the fire in the early exchanges by saving James Gregory’s goal-bound effort.
Connor Glavin, son of Barnsley legend Ronnie Glavin, also narrowly missed the target with a good chance.
Aquaforce’s goal came against the run of play, but poor defending cost Sheffield. Wafula was able to burst through their defence and then beat goalkeeper Conor Mitchell to score from outside the area.
Craig Elliott’s men will rue missing a number of opportunities which would have killed Sheffield off – Lee Morris was guilty of one on the stroke of half-time.
Defender Rhys Meynell hit the post with a volley in the second half.
To Sheffield’s credit, they persevered and worked hard to try and get back into the match.
Former Stocksbridge left-back Turner had already had one go with a volley before he headed the equaliser into the net from inside a crowded penalty area.
Shaw Lane finished the stronger of the sides and substitute Adam Priestley nearly scored the winner for the second game running. His effort hit the crossbar and Lee Bennett was unable to score the rebound.
Shaw Lane Aquaforce: Deakin, Stohrer, Thornton, Foster (captain), Meynell, Bruce, Thornhill (Bennett HT), Darley, Walker (Allott 58), Morris (Priestley 78), Wafula. Subs unused: Holt, Istead.
Sheffield FC: Mitchell, Kilner, Turner, Glavin, Ludlam (captain), Hamzat, Roney (McKenzie 62), Knowles (Raheen 4) (Lufudu 62), Igi-ehon, Joblon, Gregory. Subs unused: Batousol, Greaves.
Referee: Harry Hawkins
Ref Rating: 7/10
Attendance: 240
Man of the match: Ben Turner (Sheffield FC)