Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
Alex Reid looks at whether the once ever-present appearance of English clubs in the later stages of the Champions League is set to become a thing of the past
Craig Dobson looks at QPR's decision to sack Neil Warnock and replace him with Mark Hughes
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
The women's 1st XI, captained by Jenny Hunt, missed promotion by one point in the Yorkshire League. 1st XI player and new President Sam Simms said, "Although coming third is a great achievement in a new division, it was upsetting to be so close, especially when we had been second for most of the season”.
A definite high for the 1st XI is that a majority of the squad are staying put this season. With key players such as Dawn Thorley and goalkeeper Hannah McCarthy having left however, pressure may be heightened in defence. However, as new 1st XI captain Diana Cowley pointed out, "Last year is a prime example that a new team is not necessarily a bad thing, with second years moving up from the 2nd XI to the 1st XI and the introduction of freshers into the mix. We work well as a squad and there is never any pressure put on individuals, so hopefully with the integration of freshers working well, the new mix will help us improve on last season’s success."
Expectations for promotion are high. The new captain Cowley has put an increased level of importance on the BUSA league, hoping to replicate the men’s success of last season and reach the finals.
There were many high and low points from last season, which can be summarized in one eventful away game in Newcastle. Three players were injured, with one ending up in A&E. It seemed that anything that could have gone wrong, went wrong! However, the team rallied to a well-deserved draw.
The women’s teams will be looking to avenge last year’s defeat to Lancaster in Roses, though this will be difficult with the tournament being at Lancaster this year. Rivaling the importance of Roses is the local 'derby' against York St. John, which is always a tense and unpredictable game.
Freshers are certainly needed to make an impact this year. The 2nd XI is looking for a big boost and will hopefully gain some skill and fresh legs this year. Joint captains Lucy Horrell and Lizzie Hollins are hoping that specific training and fitness sessions for the team will improve their game as a whole. As for the 1st XI, gaps have appeared in defence and there is always room for an attacker who can find the back of the net every time. As far as socialising goes, Hollins says, “It is fair to comment that, though sometimes controversial, the hockey club are never lacking in the fancy dress and socials department. With UYHC being one of the only clubs at York Uni who are truly mixed, support for all teams is never lacking! In Freshers Week we have booked the astroturf to have some mixed games, so for any freshers reading, come, sign up, bring your own stick or borrow one of ours, and join in!”
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