Club News

Ladies suffer opening-day defeat

Lawrence's side unable to deny Sheffield

SPORTING Club Albion Ladies suffered a 4-2 defeat to Sheffield in their opening FA Women’s Premier League fixture at The Grove on Sunday.

The Baggies, who finished last season in sixth position, trailed the Yorkshire club by four goals before Robyn James grabbed a brace late on.

And ladies boss Dave Lawrence believes Sheffield will be their toughest opponents this season.

“Anyone that finishes above Sheffield in the table this season will have had a fantastic season,” said Lawrence.

“They were fortuitous to go ahead through a penalty after we’d kept them so quiet during the first 40 minutes.

“I’m pleased we showed the character to make a small comeback when we were 4-0 down, but I’m slightly disappointed with the manner in which we conceded the goals. 

“Robbo’s goal made the last 20 minutes more tense and interesting.”

Lawrence’s side travel to Derby County, who lost their opening game 3-2 at Preston, on Sunday (ko 2pm). 

ALBION: Foster; Darby, Owen, Broadbent, McQuilkin, Fowler (Baptiste 60), Hodgetts (Neville 70), Pope, Fellows, Griffiths, James.