Derby County Women’s FA Women's National League Northern Premier Division home fixture against Liverpool Feds on Sunday afternoon was abandoned after defender Megan Tinsley sustained an injury in the 88th minute.
Tinsley dislocated her ankle after an innocuous coming together with the visiting goalkeeper, which required immediate medical attention and an ambulance to be called - therefore, after initially suspending the game, the decision was made to abandon the match as treatment was administered on the pitch.
The game was curtailed with Derby sitting on a 2-1 lead at the Don Amott Arena and Sam Griffiths' side were on course for three points in their first game of 2024 after mounting a quickfire comeback late in the second half.
Liverpool Feds had taken the lead on eight minutes through Chantelle Thompson and goalkeeper Anna Draper was required to make some big saves throughout the match to ensure the visitors did not extend their lead.
The Ewes dominated possession but struggled to create clear cut chances in the first period. Eleanor Ashton’s jinking run and shot across the goalkeeper was parried wide, and Rebecca May’s strike on 45 minutes was overruled by the offside flag.
Derby improved in the second period, creating more opportunities, as Camille Jenkins shot wide just after the break. They were eventually rewarded for their pressure as they managed to turn the match around.
Charlotte Steggles equalised after turning home a corner on the half-volley before Ashton fired the Ewes ahead via the underside of the crossbar just moments later.
The momentum looked to be in Derby’s favour before the game was abandoned, as Tinsley ran through on goal and sustained her injury just minutes after seeing the side take the lead.
The Ewes’ left-back had previously missed the entirety of the 2022/23 campaign on medical advice to manage a heart condition - but returned to the fold this season, making 11 appearances in all competitions so far.
Everyone at Derby County wishes Meg a speedy recovery.
Words: Alfie Dickin