Weekend Sports Roundup: Thrills and Spills in Local Action

Weekend Sports Roundup: Thrills and Spills in Local Action

This weekend offered a mixed bag of outcomes across local football, rugby, and women’s sports, showcasing the highs and lows athletes face in competition.

Football Highlights

In a thrilling encounter, the Daniels were left frustrated after a heart-wrenching 96th-minute goal from Redditch United sank their hopes of victory, resulting in a 2-1 defeat. Jack Duffy had initially put the Daniels ahead early on, finding the net just four minutes into the match, but their lead was unable to withstand the relentless pressure from their opponents, culminating in a late winner.

In the Peterborough and District League, Uppingham Town has had their spirits lifted as they climbed to 2nd place in the Premier Division. They celebrated a resounding 5-0 victory over Whittlesey Athletic Reserves, with a hat-trick from Cameron Cleaver and contributions from Finn Bishop and Sam Blackwell. Meanwhile, Oakham United struggled, suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat at Deeping United.

Division 1 saw Stamford Bels further solidify their standing with a 2-0 win over second-placed Whaplode Drove Rovers, thanks to a brace from Jordan Neil. Bourne Town remained hot on their heels, occupying 3rd place after edging out league leaders Eastwood with a 3-1 victory. Blackstones made a dramatic comeback in their match against Stapleford Town, salvaging a 2-2 draw after being 2-0 down at halftime.

Notably, Cottesmore endured a tough match against Desford in the Everards Brewery Premier Division, suffering a 9-2 defeat, with James Lewis and Leon Kavanagh scoring consolation goals.

Women’s Football

Stamford AFC performed impressively in the Lincolnshire County Cup, cruising to a 3-0 victory over Sleaford Town. Emma Pollard showcased her talent once again, scoring twice for the second consecutive week, with Laura Dodwell adding another goal. 

Ketton Sports also enjoyed success, edging out East Goscote 3-2 in the Leicestershire and Rutland Howes Percival Women's Cup, thanks to two goals from Sascha Smith and one from Fran Kavanagh. However, Deeping Rangers faced disappointment as they were eliminated from the Lincolnshire County Women’s Cup, succumbing to a heavy 6-1 loss against Grimsby Town Academy.

Youth Football Update

In youth matches, Oakham United advanced in the Invitation Trophy U17/18 with a match against Barwell. Cottesmore faced Andrews Tigers in a nail-biter during the U16 League Cup, prevailing in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw.

In the Leicester & District Sunday Juniors League, Cottesmore's U15 side put on a display of attacking football, finishing with a 7-3 victory over the Football & Fitness Academy U15 Tigers.

Rugby Results

The rugby scene saw Stamford solidify their spot at the top of Counties 1 with a 36-24 win over Stockwood Park, marking their seventh victory of the season. In a close match, Bourne narrowly lost to Peterborough Lions, finishing 38-37 in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

In Counties 3, Stamford College Old Boys did not enjoy the same fortune, falling 29-7 to the 4th placed Rugby Lions. The Deepings encountered a tough battle as well, succumbing to Northampton Men's Own 32-10.

Women’s Rugby

Women's rugby also saw action as Stamford Storm managed a draw and a win in their latest matches of the Inner Warrior Series. They first drew 5-5 with Deeping/Boston before bouncing back with a 17-7 victory over March/St Ives, where Georgina Mackinlay was named Player of the Match. The event also saw several players making their debut for the Storm, adding to the excitement of the day.