Both Swans ladies 2s and 3s faced each other on Saturday for their first game of 2026. It was played in the true spirit of the game of hockey, with both teams one short so 10 a side.

Swans 3rds opened the scoring with a great shot from Liz Goldsack, giving keeper, Alexis Barras, no chance. This was swiftly followed by a tap in from newcomer, Amber Wells. The 2nds found it difficult to break out from defence due to the pressure from the 3rds forward line, with Goldsack once again finding the back of the net just before half time.

The 2nds came back with a vengeance in the 2nd half and Rachel Marsden pushed up onto the front line. 3rds keeper, Nikki Grenville-Cleave saved a brilliant shot from Marsden to keep a clean sheet.

The 3rds attack continued to pepper 2nds keeper Barras and if it wasn't for her amazing agility the scoreline would have been higher. Wells finished the scoring 15 minutes from the end to make it 4-0.

Despite being an inter club game, this match was an example to all watching of a competitive but fair game, played with great friendship and camaraderie. Ladies 2nds Players of the match were Lily Howard and Hannah Samways, newcomers this season who were outstanding on the left flank. Ladies 3rds Player of the match was Jan Withers who controlled the centre brilliantly.