WINS ALL ROUND
Leicester 2s rose a place to 6th in Midlands Premier with a hard-fought win over 5th placed Matlock Baileans, settled by a single scrambled goal in the second half. Both teams had several goal scoring chances but with each side's goal keeper in resolute form the one goal proved decisive.
Next weekend, Leicester travel to League leaders, Worcester, for what may be a stern test. Worcester have won all 6 of their League matches this season but coach Jules Sawkings is moulding a determined set of players who will give Worcester a battle. The 2nds are in England Hockey 2nd Team Cup action on Sunday at home to Birmingham University 2nds (12.30 Leicester Grammar School). The Students top Division 1 with a 100% record so another tough challenge is likely.
Leicester 1sts and 3rds did not play at the weekend but Leicester 4ths and 5ths both recorded wins. The 4ths continued this season's unbeaten run with a 3-0 victory over University of Leicester with goals from Grace Gladdle, Abi Williams and Lily Bridgewater. The 5ths won for the first time beating high flying South Leicester 2-1. Leicester went into a 2-0 lead through Gaynor Nash and a first for 13 year old Freya Tailor but South hit back well in an even second half contest to reduce the deficit.
Tailor was in good form for Leicester U14s against South Leicester U14s on Sunday. She cracked three of Leicester's goals with Holly Mould and Lauren Potter striking a pair apiece.
Leicester's star U18 goal keeper, Caitlin Jeffries helped Mercian Lynx to a clean sweep of victories in the Futures Cup. The Lynx side is made up mainly of young Midlanders. They won 6-1 and 6-0 against Wessex Leopards and Pennine Pumas before beating Saxon Tigers 3-0. In the final Tigers fought hard but Lynx triumphed 3-2.
At U16 level, Lizzie Honarmand's Lynx side was less successful, losing to Leopards and Tigers but beating Pumas with Honarmand notching a goal. The Futures Cup showcases the best young talent in England with many players going on to represent England.
Next Saturday, Leicester 1sts hope to preserve their 100% Premier League record when they face Slough, 3rd in the League, at Leicester Grammar School (2.30).