MATCH REPORT | Legends side edge out Millers in memorial charity match

Millers from down the years fought out a hotly-contested five goals thriller in memory of a club legend.

Rotherham United Women’s current crop of players took on a team of “legends” from past days in the tribute game for the late club secretary Shirley Pollock.

The yellow-clad Legends side, featuring Shirley’s grand-daughter Amy “Pol” Pollock, raced into an early lead thanks to three goals from Hull City striker Helen Lynskey, who played for Rotherham in…

The old guard – many of whom recounted touching memories of Shirley in the matchday programme – threatened to run away with the match.

But the Class of 2023 fought their way back into the contest, narrowing the gap through a calm finish by winger Halima Essa and a rebound tucked away by midfielder Abbie Staples.

The second half was a tight affair of few chances until the closing stages, when Reds keeper Beth Baxter pulled off three top-class stops before conceding a late penalty.

Pollock, who had stabbed wide moments earlier, stepped up to apply the perfect seal to the victory – before thumping her effort high over the bar.

A healthy crowd at Roundwood applauded off both sides as the match finished 3-2.

Proceeds from entry fees plus a raffle, tombola and bucket collection will go to Dementia UK and Weston Park Cancer Charity.

Rotherham United Women are back in action on

Sunday when they travel to Retford FC for the first in a series of pre-season friendlies.