Charlton Athletic suffer promotion setback at Sheffield United

BY ALEC MCQUARRIE

Georgia Walters’ composed finish gave Sheffield United their first Women’s Championship win since September in a 1-0 home victory over Charlton Athletic.

The Welsh international struck just before the interval at Bramall Lane against the promotion-chasers to stay five points ahead of a resurgent Coventry United.

It was a frustrating afternoon for the Addicks after recording eight straight wins in all competitions and they can ill afford to lose more ground in the race for the Women’s Super League.

Emily Simpkins had the first sight of goal with six minutes played, the midfielder striking low into the legs of the Blades defence.

And with half-an-hour gone, Sophie Barker almost caught out Sian Rogers in the Charlton goal with a whipped corner that clattered the crossbar.

The ensuing melee saw fervent appeals for a penalty from the hosts, but after a lengthy chat with her assistant, the referee decided against awarding a spot-kick.

Then, two minutes before half-time, Barker broke quickly and Walters finished the move with a cool slot into the corner.

The 29-year-old continued to threaten after the break, sending a sweet free-kick whistling past the post and then heading a cross just over shortly after.

Charlton began to push for an equaliser and a huge chance fell the way of substitute Alex Hennessy in the 83rd minute, but her effort from inside the box flew narrowly wide.

The Blades were looking dangerous on the break, with Tamara Wilcock seeing her shot blocked after good work from Rebecca Rayner.

United held on to record just their third win of the season.

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