Report: 3rd XI Ladies vs Newmarket 3s – February 21, 2026
Spalding Ladies 3s travelled to face Newmarket Ladies 3s in an early pushback, naming one of the most youthful sides they have selected this season. The squad showed great determination from the outset, despite facing immediate pressure from the hosts.
Newmarket started strongly, earning a succession of penalty corners in the opening stages. However, Spalding’s defence stood firm under intense pressure. Goalkeeper Anya Knights and Kelly Tizzano both produced outstanding stick saves high in the air to deny certain goals, keeping the scores level with some truly brave and skilful defending.
Spalding, adjusting to several players in new positions, began to find their rhythm. Jessica Pilgrim and Eloise Doughty on the wings linked up well with the midfield Jess Worth and delivering some lovely through balls and carried the ball into the Newmarket circle. Despite some promising attacking play, Spalding were unable to convert their chances. Unfortunately, a momentary lapse in defence allowed Newmarket to capitalise, striking cleanly and the team went into the break 1:0 down.
After a motivational half-time team talk from Captain Kelly Tizzano, the young Spalding side returned to the pitch eager to make their mark on the scoreboard.. As the second half progressed, Spalding had lost some shape in midfield, and Newmarket extended their advantage with a ball driven in from the right and neatly slapped home from the penalty spot to make it 2-0.
The pressure continued as Newmarket broke quickly down the right-hand side, finishing at the far post to stretch the lead to 3–0. Spalding continued to battle, with strong attacking runs into the D from Sam Foston and Isla Worral, but they were unable to find the back of the net. Another swift Newmarket move exposed an unmarked player in the circle, who converted to make it 4–0.
Spalding refused to let their heads drop, and their persistence paid off when they were awarded a penalty corner. Joint Player of the Match Eloise Hull stepped up and delivered a beautiful slap shot from the top of the D, pulling a goal back for Spalding and rewarding the team’s hard work. Poppy Hooker was also joint Player of the Match for her consistent defensive display and for commanding the team around her to support.
Despite giving 100% effort until the final whistle, Spalding Ladies 3s were left with a 4–1 defeat. The young side showed resilience, moments of quality, and plenty of promise to build on for the matches ahead.