Report: Sheffield FC Ladies 3-1 Bristol City Women

Previously unbeaten City went down 2-0 at fellow promotion chasers Yeovil Town Ladies on Thursday night, and were unable to return to winning ways against an inspired Sheffield outfit.

The hosts landed the first blow inside five minutes when Hannah Dale was fouled by Ellie Wilson in the box, prompting Chelsea Flanagan to convert from the penalty spot.

City were back on terms just after the half-hour mark with a superb strike from Rosella Ayane, who watched the ball drop over her shoulder before hitting a sweet half-volley into the top corner.

But the expected swing in momentum was not forthcoming and Sheffield shocked City again by retaking the lead before half-time, as Jodie Michalska headed home Ellie Gilliatt’s free kick.

Vixens manager Willie Kirk later admitted his side “didn’t turn up”. Millie Farrow came close to a second equaliser before Dale’s free kick eluded a crowded penalty area and nestled in the bottom corner to complete the scoring.

City now go into the mid-season break fourth in WSL2, three points behind leaders Yeovil.