The BUCS Match of the Week sees us head to Sheffield on Wednesday where the University of Sheffield take on the University of Warwick in the Women’s National Trophy Round 1.
Sheffield head into the first round of the National Trophy after playing just one game in the league so far this season which they narrowly lost 13-10 against Leeds Beckett three weeks ago.
That result leaves them in 5th place in the Northern Tier 1 but with the top four teams all tied on three points apiece, Sheffield are still in with a shout of mounting a title challenge.
Warwick have also only played one game in the league so far this season, a huge 32-4 win over Oxford Brookes 2nds in the Midlands Tier 1 - 1A.
That win sees them in a healthy third position in the league just behind Nottingham 3rds and Loughborough 2nds who have both played a game extra.
Having gained promotion from the Midlands Tier 2 - 2A last season, Warwick are also looking to challenge for the title and secure promotion to the Premier division.
Ones to Watch
University of Sheffield
After a fourth placed finish last season that left them just three points behind second place, Sheffield are hoping to make it to the Premier division this season with their mix of experience and youth.
Second year student Emily Kynastan is an experienced draw specialist whose draw success rate is enviable and her ability to take defenders on and beat them sees her as one of Sheffield’s top goal scorers.
A product of Mellor Lacrosse Club in Greater Manchester, Kynastan has been running developmental sessions at the University of Sheffield for people who are new to lacrosse since 2021.
A key member of the Sheffield defence is Violet Street who can also double up as a midfielder when required; she is a brilliant judge of the ball making her excellent at interceptions and has a particular penchant for one v one defence.
University of Warwick
Warwick are certainly a team on the up and with a promotion from the Midlands Tier 2 - 2A last season, they’ve got their sights firmly on securing promotion to the big time this year.
Goalie Ginny Zealley is one of the key players for Warwick in their quest to hit the big time and her experience in the England under-21 and Wales set-ups will prove important for her team.
Having learned and honed her skills at Wycombe Abbey School, Zealley is a strong goalie who is ready to take Warwick to the next level.
Another player who could prove pivotal to Warwick’s chances of promotion this season is Justine Sansom who is a part of the England under-20 set-up.
A natural athlete, Sansom also plays netball in the England Premier Division 2 with netball allowing her to play in multiple national club tournaments and explore England while playing for various Saracens Mavericks NPL teams.
Fact Files
Sheffield
Team Captain | Alice Allan
Coaching Staff | Team Members
2022/23 League Position | 4th (Northern Tier 1)
Warwick
Team Captain | Maddie Alcock
Coaching Staff | Maddie Alcock
2022/23 League Position | 1st (Midland Tier 2 - 2A)
2023/24 Results
Leeds Beckett 13-10 Sheffield
Warwick 32-4 Oxford Brookes 2nds