26/10/2025
A little later in the weekend than I'd have liked but here's this week's report!
Division One
Undefeated Fleetwood A took on Lightning A in what was expected to be another strong showing from the league leaders.
Unfortunately, due to a night shift, Fleetwood were unable to field their usual team for the first time this season. However, this did little to slow their momentum, as they went on to record an impressive 22–2 victory.
It was Chris Howard and Emily Broadbent who claimed both of Lightning’s games on the night, putting in a strong performance against tough opposition.
Best wishes go out to the members of Lightning’s team who were unable to play due to illness and injury — we hope to see them back on court soon.
A potential crucial relegation clash took place this week as Kingfisher B hosted Kirkham.
Looking at the current tables, this could prove to be a key fixture in the fight for survival. Kirkham kept it strong throughout, securing a 15–9 victory, while Kingfisher’s single point could prove vital come the end of the season.
It was also brilliant to see Ling Fang back on court for Kingfisher — a welcome return after time away.
Very well played, Kirkham.
Division Two
It was an all-Lightning derby this week as Lightning B took on the newly formed Lightning C, a team made up entirely of talented Juniors.
It was fantastic to see Jess Bagley and Sarah Jackson back on court following the sad folding of Project 12. Their return added experience and depth to the B team lineup.
Although Jess Bagley found herself facing Juniors of a similar age, this didn’t seem to bother her in the slightest — her consistency and strength shone through in her performances… and that’s even without wearing her new trainers!
The following was received from the Lightning B team captain along with the scorecard:
“Probably the toughest fixture yet for Lightning’s newly emerging Junior team against their own B team, who were playing Division 1 last season.
Lightning B once again benefitted hugely from the folding of Project 12, with both Jess B and Sarah J stepping up to help fill absences.
Experience won on the night with a 24–0 score line. Lightning B have dropped a maximum of only two games in their matches to date, so their C team should take heart — they were always going to be tough to crack.
But crack they did at times, with some great shots, rally building, and outright digging in. Well done!”
I went down to watch this match myself, and it was fantastic to see the Juniors competing so enthusiastically. It didn’t matter what the scores were — their sheer determination, energy, and competitive flair made every game exciting to watch.
A special mention goes to Willow Danks, who played her very first competitive adult league match. Not only that, but she also had the added pressure of being filmed for her GCSE PE assessment — a great effort and experience all around!
Also in Division Two, Fleetwood B hosted Stanley B in what could well prove to be a potential promotion decider come the end of the season.
It was the Stanley B ladies who started strongly, taking five out of the six ladies’ games. However, Fleetwood B’s men responded superbly, storming ahead and winning all six of their games to make it 7–5 to Fleetwood heading into the mixed.
A fantastic performance from Jake Meakin and Claire Doherty saw them take both of their mixed matches against Fleetwood’s third pair — keeping their composure under pressure and winning the second end on setting.
In the end, it was Fleetwood B who secured a brilliant 16–8 victory, with Manoj Manandhar once again named Player of the Match — his name is fast becoming a regular feature in these reports!
Stanley C hosted Kirkham Charter B, but unfortunately weren’t quite strong enough to take a point this time, just losing out 18–6.
It was Ben and Angela New who claimed half of Stanley’s games, showing great determination throughout, while Andy Heaton put in a standout performance — winning an impressive 7 out of 8 games!
A solid effort all round and plenty of positives to take forward. Well played everyone!
Levels Division
In the only Levels match of the week, Bloomfield A took on Lids A.
Bloomfield dominated from start to finish, producing a strong 13–3 victory. This result keeps them firmly in the title conversation and makes them one to watch as the season unfolds.
Thanks again to all captains sending in the scoresheets.
I hope everyone has a Spooktacular (sorry) week and I again look forward to this week's matches.
Thanks for taking the time to read and please do share with your clubs.
Serena Hindle
