Cheltenham Mixed opened their season at home against Southampton Uni on Sunday 18th October. A dry, sunny day made for perfect lacrosse weather, but Southampton arrived with more goalies than Cheltenham had subs. Clearly, it was going to be a tough day.

The first quarter started with a bang, with rapid-fire goals at both ends. Cheltenham’s Gary, Ben and Stephen all made the scoresheet, showing the team’s range of scoring threats. Against an athletic Southampton squad, the quarter ended level at 4–4.

The second quarter tested both teams as they battled for control. Cheltenham proved dominant at both ends, with Lydia and Harry joining the scoresheet alongside sequels from Ben, Gary. Defence made the difference: Lauren, Hannah, Amelie and James L worked as a unit to keep Southampton’s athleticism at bay. Goalkeeper James Humphreys masterfully dealt with anything that slipped through, helping Cheltenham finish the quarter 9–6 ahead.

Cheltenham kept control in the third, with Cheltenham continuing to win possession at the draw. The Woods added four goals between them (OK, yes, three were Lydia’s). A defensive unit firing on all cylinders made interceptions, while Humphreys combined doorstop saves with fizzing clears. Dynamic movement from Stephen and Jamie created outlets up the pitch, while Charlotte, Lydia and Harry kept the ball moving in attack and helped Cheltenham retain possession. Cheltenham had matched a stacked Southampton team’s physicality, but the clock became the enemy as 2 Cheltenham players left for other commitments. Despite a 13–7 lead, there was still a long way to go!

Southampton wanted it in the fourth. They had the legs and the talent, so Cheltenham had to be clever. With just one sub, it was a tough slog, but the defence closed ranks and Humphreys made saves way beyond his pay grade. Southampton attacked in waves, but their goals were too few and far between to erase Cheltenham’s lead. Penalty kills, patient clears and clever possession sealed a 13–9 win for Cheltenham.

The match was a testament to Cheltenham’s fighting spirit and game IQ. Enjoyment was the name of the game, and the team did each other proud. Kudos to Southampton, who were a pleasure to play against in the true spirit of the game.

James Humphreys picked up Player of the Match for a stunning performance in goal. Well done to Stephen Kwong, voted Cheltenham MVP by the opposition.

From the captains: Well done and thank you to everyone who took part. We did ourselves proud as a team. A huge thank you to Rosie for umpiring the game.