The Downs 41–46 Hucclecote | POM: Marlene Lange
The Downs pushed Hucclecote all the way in their opening Premier League match of the season, eventually going down 46–41.
A strong third-quarter fightback brought The Downs back into the game, with Marlene Lange and Hucclecote’s Niamh Kilgallen seemingly ping-ponging interceptions between them as both sides fought for control.
England NXT squad member Lange showed her class throughout, working around Rosie Bell, reading the game beautifully and picking off clean interceptions and tips. Her performance earned her Hucclecote’s Player of the Match award.
At the other end, Emma Magee kept the Hucclecote defence guessing, using fake passes, quick hands and clever shooter-to-shooter play to open up the circle, maintain possession and keep the scoreboard turning over for The Downs.
The Downs were still in the hunt with three minutes remaining when experienced Hucclecote GK Sam Wisbey intercepted a long ball into the circle. It proved the crucial turnover, giving Hucclecote the lift they needed to close out the game.
A 41–46 defeat, but a fiercely contested and encouraging start to The Downs’ 2026/27 Premier League campaign.
