Reading crowned Investec Women's Hockey League Champions
21st April 2013In a reversal of last year’s result, Reading were crowned Investec Women’s Hockey League Champions after beating Leicester in dramatic fashion at their Sonning Lane base on Sunday. The win earned them the coveted title, £2,500 of prize money from sponsors Investec and top spot in Europe. Leicester take the runners-up spot and a cheque for £1,500.
Level at 1-1 after normal time and extra time, Reading won two-nil on penalty shuffles to spark scenes of jubilation at their home ground, with Olympians Kate Walsh and Alex Danson the only players to keep their nerve and score in the shootout. Sarah Ellis was fantastic in Reading’s goal saving four times from Leicester.
Earlier in the day, Canterbury secured third place and picked up their Investec prize money with a 3-2 win over Canterbury, battling back from a 2-1 deficit at half time.
In the play-offs, a hat-trick from Sophie Robinson helped secure Investec Premier Division hockey for Beeston as they beat Harleston Magpies 6-1. And Olton and West Warwickshire preserved their top flight status despite losing 2-1 to Buckingham.