
Match reports Saturday 21st March
L1
Doncaster L1 v Leeds 2
2 : 4
It was a true game of two halves as Doncaster Ladies 1s brought their season to a close against Leeds.
Leeds came out of the blocks quickly, knowing that a win was their only chance of survival, and immediately put Doncaster under pressure. Their fast start saw them take control early on, forcing Doncaster onto the back foot.
As the game settled, Doncaster began to find their rhythm and grew into the contest. Increased composure and better ball movement allowed them to apply sustained pressure of their own. Two well-worked penalty corners, both finished clinically by Charlotte G, brought Doncaster right back into the game and shifted the momentum.
Doncaster created further chances to level the score, but were unable to convert. A moment of individual brilliance from a Leeds player ultimately proved decisive, extending their lead to 4–2 and putting the game out of reach.
Despite the result, there were plenty of positives to take. The performance highlighted the team’s resilience and attacking quality, particularly considering the squad’s average age of just 24 — a strong indicator of the potential within the group.
The season now comes to a close with Doncaster finishing 4th in the league, a result that reflects the hard work, development, and commitment shown throughout the campaign. A promising foundation to build on for the seasons ahead.
Scarlett F player of the match, was brilliant on and off the ball.
L2
Uni of Leeds v Doncaster L2
3 :3
Doncaster Hockey Club Ladies 2s signed off their season with a spirited 3–3 draw against the University of Leeds, in a match that felt like it should have brought all three points.
From the outset, Doncaster played with energy and intent, dominating large spells of the game and creating chance after chance. Their attacking play was sharp and inventive, producing some outstanding passages of hockey that kept the Leeds defence under constant pressure.
Despite finding the net three times, Doncaster were left frustrated as several more opportunities went begging, and they were ultimately unlucky not to come away with a win.
While the result was bittersweet in this final game of the season, the performance was full of promise. With such a strong display, Doncaster Ladies 2s can take great confidence into next year.
L3
Doncaster L3 v Doncaster L4 Friendly
The final weeks of the hockey season often bring a mix of fatigue, reflection, and celebration—and this year’s friendly match between the Ladies 3s and Ladies 4s captured all of that in the best possible way. Played in great spirit and under surprisingly kind weather, the game was less about competition and more about marking the end of a season filled with effort, progress, and camaraderie.
From the first whistle, the tone was set as both sides approached the match with energy and positivity. The Ladies 3s, drawing on their experience from a challenging season, moved the ball confidently and showed strong structure across the pitch. Meanwhile, the Ladies 4s brought enthusiasm and determination, pressing well and supporting each other throughout, demonstrating just how far they’ve come over the course of the year.
The match itself was lively and entertaining, with end-to-end play and plenty of chances for both sides. Goals were celebrated loudly regardless of which team scored, reflecting the shared club spirit that defined the occasion. There were moments of individual skill, well-worked team moves, and plenty of laughter—especially when the occasional mis-hit or unexpected deflection reminded everyone that this was, above all, a friendly.
Rolling substitutions ensured everyone had a chance to contribute, and it was great to see players trying out new positions and encouraging one another from the sidelines. The communication and support between teammates—both within and across the two squads—highlighted the strong sense of community that has grown this season.
As the final whistle blew, the result felt secondary to the atmosphere that had been created. Players gathered together for some well-earned cake, sharing highlights from the match and reflecting on the season as a whole. For some, it marked the end of their first season of hockey; for others, another chapter in a long involvement with the club—but for all, it was a reminder of why they play.
The friendly concluded with smiles, group photos, and plans already being discussed for next season. It was a fitting and lovely end to the hockey calendar: a celebration of teamwork, improvement, and the friendships that make the sport so special.
M2
Leeds 2 v Doncaster M2
6 : 2
Donny 2s made a flying start against Leeds as within the opening 20 seconds, Donny had already forced a PC, setting the tone for an energetic and aggressive opening spell.
That early pressure soon paid off. Donny continued to push forward and were rewarded with the breakthrough when Skelhorn found the back of the net to give us a deserved 1-0 lead.
However, the momentum swung dramatically as Leeds responded with ruthless efficiency. Three quick goals in succession turned the game on its head, leaving Donny trailing 3-1 by the HT break despite their bright start.
The second half proved equally challenging. Leeds capitalised on their advantage and continued to press, extending their lead with further goals to make it 4–1, then 5–1, and eventually 6–1. With the game effectively put to bed, Donny kept battling and looked for a late consolation.
Their persistence was rewarded in the closing minutes when an overhead ball found Gunning, who produced the standout moment of the match. Showing excellent technique and composure, he struck a superb volley past the keeper to seal a memorable goal and round off the scoring.
FT: 6-2 but the 2s have survived the YNE prem this season.
M3
Doncaster M3 v Lindum 3
3 : 6
M4
Lindum 4 v Doncaster M4
1 : 3
Doncaster Men’s 4th Team made the trip to face Lindum this week, though the day began with an unexpected twist. Upon arriving at Lindum’s club, the squad discovered that the match had been relocated to a nearby school, forcing a quick adjustment to unfamiliar surroundings before pushback.
Despite the disrupted start, Doncaster settled well and produced a strong opening performance. Their efforts were rewarded early in the second half with a well-worked team goal to break the deadlock. However, the lead proved short-lived, as Lindum responded almost immediately, finding an equaliser within minutes.
Undeterred, Doncaster maintained their attacking intent and continued to apply pressure. Their persistence paid off in the closing stages of the first half when they won a crucial corner. Making it count, they converted the set piece to restore their advantage and go into the break 2–1 ahead.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Doncaster showing good structure and composure in possession. Their organised play led to several promising passages, and it was Caige who capitalised on one of these moments, adding a third goal to put the result beyond doubt.
A disciplined and controlled performance saw Doncaster close out the game comfortably, securing a 3–1 victory on the road.
M5
Doncaster M5 v Acomb 2
0 : 5
Match report - Sunday 22nd March
M1
Doncaster M1 v Leeds 1
3 : 7
Doncaster welcomed title chasers Leeds to the John Marshall Arena in the North Conference and with the side line packed with former Doncaster National League players, the game pushed back and was played at a really strong tempo from minute one.
Leeds are top of the league for a reason and Doncaster were dealt a cruel hand in the first quarter when, despite having plenty of the ball, Doncaster found themselves 3 goals down due to Leeds’ supreme efficiency in front of goal.
Sadly, that theme continued throughout the game with Leeds adding a couple more to their tally - not through the fault of anyone in particular, their class just showed in front of goal and they were able to convert pressure into goals, which is where Doncaster have struggled all season.
Although the game was probably out of reach, Doncaster didn’t give up and added 3 goals of their own through penalty corners. Sadly, we weren’t able to stay on the scoring streak and Leeds again made us pay on the break.
A wide score line in the end and while there’s no complaints that Leeds were the better team, on the balance of play, the score should’ve been closer. We held our own with the (now crowned) champions, which I’m incredibly proud of.
Once more this weekend with a trip to Newcastle University.
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