The next Spalding League season is taking shape with a provisional entry list of 27 teams and three divisions expected to compete. The line-up was announced after this week’s annual general meeting, where clubs prepared for the new campaign.
The AGM also preceded three competitions: the Ladies, Mixed Pairs and Captains Cup events. The contests provided an early opportunity for players and teams to compete before the league season begins.
New name on the ladies’ trophy
Rachel James of Holbeach Services B secured the Ladies title after a closely fought final against Tracey Baldwin of Riverside A. James won 2-1, holding her nerve against last season’s runner-up.
The result puts a new name on the ladies’ trophy. Baldwin had reached the final again after finishing as runner-up in the previous season, but James took the deciding contest for Holbeach Services B.
Charlton continues Captains Cup run
John Charlton of Lincoln Arms B continued his strong record in the Captains Cup by defeating Tom Elderkin of Pinchbeck FC A. The result adds another successful appearance to Charlton’s run in the competition.
The meeting’s mixed pairs event was also well supported. Defending champions Claire Brookin and Ash Allen of Royal Mail Cart retained their title in emphatic fashion, winning every game without dropping a leg.
In the final, Brookin and Allen beat Dan and Tina Gent of Consti E, a mother-and-son pairing described as strong opposition. Brookin has now won the mixed pairs competition more than 10 times.
What happens next
With 27 teams provisionally entered, the league is expected to be divided into three sections for the coming season. The AGM results provide the initial structure for the competition, while the individual tournament results have already settled the honours in the three events held after the meeting.
The Spalding League’s new campaign follows a busy evening for local players, with established champions defending titles, a new Ladies winner lifting the trophy and Charlton extending his Captains Cup run.
