BARNSLEY Ladies look set to retain their Sheffield and District Hockey League title after a convincing victory over Grasshoppers of Chesterfield, their third successive win over the same opponents. Barnsley are waiting for confirmation from the league that the victory is enough to secure a second successive championship. They have already won the cup. The Reds started very strongly, with A M Watkinson snatching an early goal in the opening minutes. C Watson continued her good season in front of goal by adding another soon after and in the hot conditions, Grasshoppers were beginning to feel the heat. A third goal, again from Watkinson, put the result beyond doubt. Barnsley played some outstanding hockey, keeping possession well and playing around the opposition. An excellent midfield display from K Whitehouse provided the strength Barnsley needed. Barnsley’s penalty corners eventually came good with a sweet strike by J Oliver which crashed against the back board. Both teams started slowly after the break but Barnsley settled the quickest with Oliver breaking through and scoring the only goal in the second half. Player of the match was Stella Hartley. The club believe this is the first time they have done the double. They are sponsored by Weldrick’s Pharmacy and The Rose and Crown at Darton.
