In a significant turn of events, Holcombe has been elevated to the status of Super 6s Division One champions, paving their way to the Premier Division. This advancement follows a ruling by the National Game Panel, which penalised Beeston for playing an ineligible player during their January 6th and 7th matches. Consequently, Beeston’s games involving the ineligible player have been deemed 5-0 defeats, with no further sanctions imposed.
Initially, Holcombe found themselves near the bottom of the league after the first weekend, suffering a 5-3 defeat to Beeston, a 2-1 loss to Knole Park, and a goalless draw against Reading. However, they staged an impressive comeback the following weekend at Polo Farm, Canterbury, clinching victories in all four matches. They overcame Wimbledon and Sevenoaks with identical 4-2 scores, followed by triumphs over Sutton Coldfield (4-3) and Canterbury (7-1) on January 13th and 14th.
These victories not only earned Holcombe three additional points but also enhanced their goal difference by seven. Similarly, Sutton Coldfield and Knole Park, who both drew with Beeston, gained two points each and saw their goal differences improve by five. This reshuffle in the standings means Holcombe and Sutton Coldfield have earned promotions to the Super 6s Premier Division, while Reading remains in Division One.
In the upcoming Premier Division season, Holcombe and Sutton Coldfield will face teams like Buckingham, Slough, East Grinstead, Surbiton, Guildford, Harleston Magpies, and Repton. Meanwhile, Bowdon Highton and Leicester City face relegation to Division One.
This promotion marks a significant comeback for Holcombe to the Premier Division, their first appearance since 2022, following their relegation alongside Wimbledon. It’s also a historic moment as it’s the first time since that year that both Holcombe’s men’s and women’s teams will compete in the Super 6s Premier Division.
Coach Richard Lane expressed immense satisfaction with the team’s championship victory in Division One, highlighting their exceptional performance. Captain Harriet Pittard echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s hard work and significant progress. Manager Kerry Hodges praised the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Looking ahead, both Holcombe’s men’s and women’s teams are gearing up for their outdoor campaigns. The women’s team is set for a Division One South double-header against Surbiton 2s and Southgate at Holcombe Park on February 3rd and 4th. The men’s team will commence Phase 2 of their Premier Division journey against Old Georgians at St. George’s College on February 10th.
