Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Rutland Sports Roundup

 **Football Roundup: Historic Wins and Intense Battles**

This weekend brought a flurry of exciting football action across various leagues, highlighted by a landmark victory for Peterborough United. The team notched their biggest-ever win against local rivals Cambridge United, dismantling them 6-1, courtesy of a stunning hat-trick from Kwame Poku. This result not only reflects a dominant performance but also sets a new standard for the club’s encounters against their rivals.

In contrast, The Daniels faced disappointment at home, despite initially taking the lead through Richard Gregory. They succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against AFC Telford United, a result that has seen them drop to 5th place in their league standings. The team will be looking to bounce back quickly to regain their momentum.

In the Premier Division of the Peterborough and District League, Oakham United endured a tough outing, losing 4-1 to Warboys Town, with Will Pearce-Smith netting their only goal. However, Deeping United managed to secure a 2-1 victory over Holbeach United Reserves, completing a double over their opponents.

Stamford Bels in Division 1 are on fire, achieving their 14th win of the season with a staggering 9-1 demolishment of Long Sutton Athletic. Jordan Neil led the charge with an impressive four-goal haul, while Paul Cramp, Dan Gargan, Lewis Morley, Callum Willimont, and Alfie Winters all contributed to the rout.

Bourne Town are celebrating their place in the FA Vase 3rd Round after a 3-1 triumph over Market Drayton Town, thanks to goals from Zacorie Allen, Robbie Ellis, and Brad Marshall, highlighting their progress in cup competitions.

In a thrilling match, Blackstones found themselves 3-1 up against Clipstone, driven by a brace from Nathan Rudman and a goal from Johan Coughlan, only to succumb to a heart-wrenching 4-3 loss with the winner coming from a last-minute penalty.

Cottesmore achieved a dramatic comeback victory against Burbage & Huncote, winning 4-3 after trailing twice in the match. A standout performance from James Lewis and a late winner from Robbie Dance sealed the deal in stoppage time.

On the higher stage, Leicester City faced another disappointing outing against Manchester United, going down 3-0, a result that leaves them searching for form as their season progresses.

**Women’s Football Flourishes**

In women’s football, Stamford AFC bounced back from their recent FA Cup exit with a thrilling 3-2 win over Rotherham, now positioning themselves 3rd in the East Midlands Women’s Premier League. Emma Pollard starred with two goals, supported by a strike from Keeley Jackson.

Oakham United delivered an impressive performance, progressing to the semi-finals of the Leicestershire League Cup with a commanding 4-1 win against league leaders Coalville Town Ravens. Zina Cheikh shone with two goals, alongside contributions from Molly Cunningham and Bethanie Munton.

Both Deeping Rangers and Ketton Sports have reached the quarter-finals of the Cambridgeshire League Cup, with significant wins under their belts. Deeping Rangers triumphed over Cardea Ladies Reserves 4-2, while Ketton Sports secured a 5-2 victory against Cambourne Town.

**Youth Football Insights**

In the youth leagues, Blackstones faced a setback, losing 3-2 to Bottesford Town in the Lincolnshire FA County U18 Boys Cup. Meanwhile, Oakham United suffered a defeat to Braunstone Athletic in the Leicestershire Youth League Under 17s Division 2, losing 1-4, and Cottesmore drew 2-2 in the Under 16’s Division 3 against Loughborough Dynamo.

The Peterborough & District leagues showcased competitive action, with Stamford Young Daniels holding Whittlesey Athletic to a thrilling 3-3 draw in the Under 18 Division 1, and Ketton Sports cruising to a 6-0 win over Thurlby Tigers in Division 2.

**Rugby Review: Highs and Lows**

The local rugby scene also saw a mix of results in the Premiership Rugby Cup. Northampton Saints secured a dramatic comeback win against Nottingham, finishing 31-29 after trailing by 21 points at half-time, showcasing their resilience.

Conversely, Leicester Tigers fell at home to Coventry, losing 33-19 but still maintaining their position at the top of Group B. In Counties 1, Stamford continued their impressive run, defeating Vipers 38-18. Bourne, however, faced a close defeat to Old Laurentians, losing 20-13.

In Counties 2, although Oakham lost 29-14 to Long Buckby, they demonstrated spirit in a commendable second half, with tries from Sam Weatherall and Will Bell. Stamford College Old Boys delivered a commanding performance, overpowering Deepings with a 39-0 win.

**Women’s Rugby Success**

In a friendly match, Stamford Women showcased their dominance with an incredible 69-10 victory against Cambridge Women, scoring 11 tries. Key performances came from Suz Franks, Jorja Matchwick, and Liberty Ashdown, who each scored two tries, while Daisy Attley contributed with six conversions.

This weekend’s action highlights the unpredictable and thrilling nature of both football and rugby, with local teams facing triumphs and challenges alike as the season progresses. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the next round of matches to see how their clubs respond.