Whinmill inspires Lions to a memorable finale

Playing their last game together before university and work commitments rip the heart out of the squad, Lions ensured they would complete the season having lost only once - to eventual champions Coundon Court.

Lions had to do it the hard way, however, having found themselves 2-0 down inside the opening ten minutes against Vale.

It got worse for Lions when Castle Vale made it 3-0 minutes before the half-time break.

The introduction of Chloe Whinmill, who has played every Lions game for the last seven seasons, helped fire up Leamington for the second half and they scored two quickfire goals to bring it back to 3-2.

Lions were unlucky to fall foul of Vale’s offside trap on more than one occasion but they finally got the better of the well-coached backline when Meg Revitt chased the ball down from inside her own half and kept her cool to beat the exposed keeper and bring it back to 3-3.

Lions were unable to conjure up a winner but that did not detract from a memorable finale for management duo Dean Haverty and Steve Wharton who were quick to thank all the players and parents for their positive support over the years.

Those players who are remaining with Leamington are opting for open-age football next season, with Lions looking to increase their adult teams to two.

Anyone interested in playing for Lions should contact Paul O’Rafferty at [email protected] or 07917 445594.