Gemma Donnelly was left beaming after today’s victory as her side beat Sheffield United 2-0 on the opening day of the 2021-22 FA Women’s Championship season.

Donnelly expressed her delight after the game: “I’m really pleased with today’s victory.

“I thought in the first-half we were fortunate not to go behind as we were on the back foot for a good chunk of it even though we did start quite well.

“We then moved a couple of things around at half-time and it was so much better from us in the second half, and we got our reward for it.

“I thought we looked strong in challenges and dominated in terms of possession, and we were clinical in front of goal.

“Super pleased with our first opening day win in the Championship and even happier it was against Sheffield United who are notoriously difficult.”

It was a perfect day all round for Rovers as they also kept an impressive clean sheet against a strong Sheffield United side.

“Alex Brooks was outstanding in net today and she did all that was asked of her,” Donnelly explained.

“We know that she’s threatening with her kicks, and it causes problems and puts the opposition on the back foot.

“She ultimately helped us get the result in the end, so I’m really pleased.”

Debutant Chloe Dixon put the Blues ahead as she netted her first goal for the club against her former side and youngster Aimee Hodgson sealed the win 10 minutes later with a great effort and Donnelly was pleased to see her players get on the scoresheet.

She said: “Chloe and I had a conversation about whether this was the right game for her to be involved in having been with Sheffield United before, but it was the right decision to play her.

“She’s proved her worth and she started playing as a full-back and was effective, so it was a tough decision to move her from that, but we know she’s good at going forward and is tricky with her feet.

“Aimee made a massive impact as soon as she stepped on the pitch.

“She’s difficult to play against as she’s so gangly but so energetic and she caused them no end of problems.

“I’m thrilled for Aimee today, she’s also still young and still learning but she’s so eager to do well and work for the team.”

The day was made even better for Rovers as fans were allowed back in the stands for the first time since February 2020 and Donnelly was happy her side rewarded their support with a win.

Donnelly said: “It absolutely makes it even more special today.

“It was buzzing here today so it was nice to have the fans back here supporting the girls and women’s football.

“It was nice to see everybody and welcome them back with a result.”

Donnelly delighted to get first Championship opening day win