Huddersfield Amateur Ladies first team went into the Christmas break top of the league, looking strong favourites to secure a top two finish.
Fast forward a month and the Sky Blues have sunk to 5th in the First Division table after three defeats and a three-point deduction after a previous opponent folded.
2022 started with an away trip to Leeds United under 21s.The Ammers are still the only team to take three points off the young Whites side.
However despite Huddersfield going 1-0 up early on through an own goal, a repeat of the result earlier in the season always looked unlikely, as Leeds were relentless in their attacks and skilful in their play. While the 4-1 result flattered the home side they were well worth the victory. HAFC left with lots of positives from the game.
The following week’s game was postponed as Tyersal were unable to field a team. So Ilkley away was next. HAFC entered the game with a depleted squad, as players were missing through isolation and injury.
The first half Ilkley were strong and organised, while HAFC were weak in the press and looked disjointed. Mistakes and sloppy defending meant Huddersfield had a mountain to climb in the second half.
Tiegan Rowley scored the only goal from the penalty spot to make the score 3-1 at the break. A pep talk and change in formation made Huddersfield look a different proposition in the second half. Sadly two perfectly-timed volleys from Courtney White and Freya Martin were not enough to seal the points as Ilkley ran out 4-3 winners. It was their first ever victory against HAFC.
The Amateurs finished the month with a third away trip on the bounce. Once again key players were missing and the team looked devoid of confidence. The game was played in good spirits with both teams having good chances.
Sherburn scored the only goal to leave Huddersfield with three successive defeats. They will be looking to bounce back in the coming weeks.
Team manager Richard Brearley said: “As a team we have stopped doing the simple things well. After reflecting on the last two weeks we will be stripping it right back.
“Positivity and encouragement is key going forward. We have a good string of games with a chance for us to build confidence.”
