Sheffield Superhero’s strike claims top spot

Amy Andrews’ clever finish against Sunderland wins the Barclays Goal of the Season award.

Sophie O’Rourke stood on the right flank, ball at her feet, eyes tracking across the box as she sought an outlet. Her subsequent cross caused commotion, and amidst the chaos, the ball broke loose to Amy Andrews whose initial effort was blocked. What followed wasn’t a long-range screamer, but a predatory, ruthless and clever finish that has been awarded the Barclays WSL2 Goal of the Season.

Andrews not only reacted first on the rebound from her own effort, but she also chose a shot from leftfield seemingly without thinking, lofting the ball from a tight angle when many others would have opted for power, over the stranded Demi Lambourne and into the empty net.

The goal gave Sheffield United an early lead away at Sunderland in March and though the home side would cancel out Andrews’ opener, and then take the lead, Andrews was on hand again to salvage a late point… one that would prove crucial in the Blades’ relegation battle.

A moment where instinct took over

"You can prepare for tactical patterns, but you can’t always account for that level of individual hunger,” said Sunderland boss Melanie Reay. “It was a frustrating one to concede because we felt we’d dealt with the first phase, but Andrews was just more alert than anyone else in the box".

"It was a goal that summed up Amy’s season—brave, clinical, and slightly unconventional,” said Blades head coach, Stephen Healy. “Most players would have waited for the ball to drop, but she attacked it. That desire is what makes her one of the best in this league.”

A Goal made for this award

Andrews faced some fierce competition for the award against the likes of Lily Crosthwaite and Jordan Nobbs. But Andrew’s strike was unique. In a mass of long-range efforts; hers showcased quick thinking, determination and skill under pressure.

Word credit: Taylor Simpson-Ward