HOCKEY PICTURES: Ladies celebrate promotion - slideshow
PICTURES BY MIKE BAKER
On Saturday REWHC Ladies’ first XI secured promotion from Warwickshire Division One with a 3 2 victory over Hampton. There are still 3 games to go in the Division but Rugby can’t be caught and remain unbeaten having played 19 won 17 and drawn 2, whilst scoring 73 goals and conceding only 19. They have three players in the league’s top 10 scorers with Nicki Siarbawa leading the table with a current tally of 34 (and that’s with her having missed four games with a broken toe). This promotion is just rewards for a season of hard work and dedication and much credit must go to coach Sue Sutton and captain Belinda Stephens. Together they have bonded a team of youth and maturity into a cohesive and match winning unit.
REWHC Ladies 1st XI 3
Hampton 2
The first half started rushed, with Hampton scoring the first goal. However, Rugby didn’t flinch, with clear objectives set by all players. Work from defence including Nancy Stephens, Sarah Plant and Isobel Bower provided fabulous opportunities for Lil Gane and Nicki Siarbawa. A goalmouth scramble allowed Rugby to equalise, courtesy of Nicki. Further progressive work from Man of the Match Sally Dowling to Amber Meikle, Laura Harris and Charlie Woolliscroft created several chances. This led to another goalmouth scramble, giving Izzy Powell the chance to score Rugby’s second, closely followed by Nicki for 3-1.
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Hide AdThe water-girl, Leanne Humphries continued to refuel the team in preparation for domination.
The second half started strongly with Rugby taking advantage of the confidence gained. Hampton continued to pressure but couldn’t break the boundaries, especially with Rachel Major bringing renewed enthusiasm to the pitch. Hampton scored a late goal, and Lil was sent off with a green card.
Rugby are now undefeated after 19 games and promoted to the next league.
A special thank you to all who have supported the team throughout the season and Lottie for replacing Emma at last minute due to unforeseen circumstances and doing a fabulous job.
Fixtures for Saturday (March 5)
M2 v Notts Uni – 1400 – Hart Field
M3 v Loughborough Students – 1145 – Bilton Grange
M4 v Notts Uni - away
M5 v Leek - away
M6 – no league fixture
M7 v Coalville - (TBC)
L1 v B’ham Uni - away
L2 v Atherstone – 1430 – Bilton High
L3 v Warwick Uni – 1600 – Bilton High
Badgers v Atherstone - away
Fixtures for Sunday
M1 v Bournville – 1200 – Hart Field
Vets v East Grinstead – 1400 – Hart Field (National Cup semi-final)