Report: Barnsley Academy 1-1 Sheff Utd Academy
Written by Editor on Sunday 4th October 2009

Not too many games will have been played in blustery conditions as this one at the Barnsley Academy Complex. The exposed grounds felt the full force of the wind that at times meant keeping the ball in play was easier said than done.

Barnsley took the lead in the tenth minute through a wonderful Reuben Noble-Lazarus strike, bending the ball into the far corner of the goals from 20 yards out.

The opening 25 minutes belonged to the young Reds, but they could not maximise possession and turn it into more goals. They paid the price as Sheffield United gained the upper hand in the final 20 minutes of the half. They pressured the Barnsley midfield and defence until they got the breakthrough on 45 minutes when a Sheffield corner led to a foul in the area and a penalty. The Blades captain, Kingsley Williams, stepped up and slotted the ball past Jevan Hodgson.

The wind seemed to get stronger in the second half and kicking the ball beyond the halfway line became impossible for either goalkeeper. Even throw-ins were being blown straight out again before anyone could get a touch on the ball.

With 60 minutes gone Danny Fearnehough, who has been excellent this season, stroked in a superb long ball for Noble-Lazarus. He controlled it well and his shot was deflected out for a corner.

Fearnehough nearly created a breakthrough for Jack Briscoe when Danny's free kick found his head, but Jack could not keep the ball on target.

Five minutes from time Kingsley WIlliams had a great chance to grab the lead, but his shot curled wide of the target.

Jevan Hodgson made a few excellent saves to deny the Blades and right at the end he was on hand to prevent Sheffield getting a last minute winner.

A draw was a fair result, but the weather was the real winner making it hard for either team to show off their true potential. After a difficult start to the season where they have played some of the biggest teams around the Academy have recorded two draws against both Sheffield sides in the last fortnight.

Goals: Reuben Noble-Lazarus (10), Kingsley Williams (45)



Barnsley Team: Hodgson, Reffin, Carlisle, Branson (c), Teiman, Fearnehough, Taylor (Clarke), Crapper, Bennett, Noble-Lazarus, Hibbert.

Visit the new Barnsley Player service, which works on PC and Mac, Barnsley Player.