RUWFC end of season review

Rotherham United Women secured a top four finish for the third time in a row after a season punctuated with thrilling high-scoring games.

Highlights included a dramatic late winner by teenager Annie Irwin at Wellingborough Town and a clinical 4-0 win at SJR Worksop.

Manager Adam Rawlings put his faith in youth, packing the side with energetic, committed young players who more than held their own among more experienced company.

Lily-May Jackson and Erren Davies continued their growth with the Millers, while newcomers Irwin, Gracie Russell-Dunstan, Ruby White and Sophia Swan all made their mark with a mix of pace and skill.

Swan proved herself a serious goal threat, particularly when bagging a hat trick in a 5-0 cup win at Netherton.

Other notable goalscoring exploits included four goals for Delia Hurdiss in a 9-0 victory over Brinsworth Whitehill where teammate Anaia Willoughby scored four, while Ella Mortimer led the scoring charts with nine goals from 16 starts.

Teenage stopper Brooke McCrory established herself as a valuable last line of defence and can look back at a spectacular penalty save at Loughborough with no little pride.

And there was a major milestone for captain Sidni Simmons, who celebrated her 100th Millers appearance in March.

Following the departure of Rawlings in January, first team coach Craig Reading guided the Millers to fourth place in the league, with plenty of optimism for the season to come.

Reading was confirmed as first team manager following the end lf the season, with new man Ben Mawson joining as head of football.

This was another season where community was close to RUWFC’s hearts.

A family fun day was held to makr Roundwood Sports Complex being renamed the Rotherham Hospice Community Stadium, while players from the First Team and Under-21s attended youth tournaments around Rotherham to cheer on the next generation.

Several players completed the Rotherham Hospice Colour Run, while The Millers were also invited to the New York Stadium for a dedicated Her Game Too fixture to champion women’s football.

Planning now begins for next season, with trials arranged for June 7 and 21 at Sheffield Hallam University Sports Park.

Details are available via the Rotherham United Women Facebook and Instagram pages.

Rotherham United Women would like to thank club sponsors TMG Mortgage Network, In-Play Sports, Mattress Online and FiveZero International Sports Recruitment for their support.

They would also like to express their gratitude to the following player sponsors: Tracie B Personalised Embroidery, The Chuff Inn, Pallet World, CSL Data Services, WS Electricals, Rail Assure, Gregory’s Linings, Solution Based Education, The Upper Crust Bakery, ADB Driving School, SIG Roofing, CG Heating and Plumbing, Diamond Coaching, The Wee Little Cow Coffee Shop, Premier St Leonards, The Wall Panel Centre, The Ashton Group, MSK Ingredients, Community Home Solutions, Selby Tyre Centre, Train Talent, Home-i, Parkin Decorating, Jason Moon Decorating, MSB Ingredients, Wheatley Hills Post Office and AMG Chrome.