Sheffield United were left to rue their first-half chances as two thunderous strikes secured all three points for the Tractorgirls.
United completely dominated the first half and had an extremely bright start to the game. Their first real sight of goal came when Lucy Quinn’s cross was deflected onto the crossbar and out of play. The Blades were relentless in their attacking play with Tegan McGowan having a big chance not long after, but her close range strike was saved well by Lysianne Proulx.
United had their biggest chance of the game halfway into the first half as Charlie Devlin found space on the left wing to deliver an inviting cross. Amy Andrews lunged to meet the cross but could only direct it onto the underside of the crossbar. She could only watch as the ball bounced down onto the goal line before being scrambled away by the Town defence.
Devlin found herself in enough space for two long range efforts in the first period but both were matched by Proulx in the Town goal. Ipswich put some pressure on towards the end of the first half. Sian Rogers pulled off a spectacular save to deny Princess Ademiluyi after a skillful solo run.
The second half was a much more even affair, with both sides creating goalscoring opportunities. Ipswich struck first however as Megan Hornby’s long range effort was deflected over Rogers to put the visitors ahead. Despite United still being on top, Town were effective on the counter and Ademiluyi took full advantage of the space she found herself in. An absolutely unbelievable strike flew straight into the top left corner leaving Rogers no chance. Ipswich were content with sitting back and defending their two goal lead, allowing United to control the last 15 minutes.
The Blades responded quickly, pulling one back through substitute Connie Scofield. Her tricky footwork opened up space for her inside the penalty area, with a tidy finish to match. United had plenty of half chances in the final 10 minutes but were unable to conjure up anything threatening as the visitors left Bramall Lane with a 1-2 victory.
Another defeat for the Blades leaves them in 9th place, with just one win this season. Despite defeat, this was a much more positive performance with plenty to build on. They will host Nottingham Forest in the League Cup in their next match. A win for the away side sees them rise to 3rd in the table, undefeated in the league. Ipswich will travel to Wolverhampton Wanderers next, also in the League Cup.
Image Credits: Ipswich Town FC Website
