Southampton return to winning ways against Sheffield United

Southampton have returned to winning ways in the Barclays Women’s Championship after defeating Sheffield United 2-0 at St Mary’s Stadium this afternoon.

Remi Allen’s side recorded their first home win of the season thanks to second half goals from Freya Gregory and Rianna Dean.

Southampton went in search of goals early on and they went close in the 12th minute as Molly Pike met Gregory’s cross at the far post but her volley went just wide. Minutes later, The Saints went close again through Pike but this time, she was denied by visiting keeper Sian Rogers who also kept out Megan Collett’s follow-up. 

While Southampton threatened in a goalless first half, Sheffield United couldn’t test Fran Stenson at the other end.

The Saints took the lead 17 minutes into the second period. Gregory broke the deadlock with a looping shot that found the top corner of Rogers’ goal. That goal for the player’s first since joining the club on loan from Aston Villa. 

Sheffield United’s first real chance came in the 78th minute but Maria Farrugia fired the ball over the bar. 

Southampton completed their two-goal victory two minutes from time through second half substitute Dean. She broke through The Blades’ defence on the counter and slotted Rachel Rowe’s weighted pass into the back of the net.

Both teams are next in action in midweek in the Women’s League Cup. Southampton play host to London City Lionesses while Sheffield have a home fixture against Sunderland.