We returned to competitive fixtures in 2021 after a year's break for COVID the previous year. This was our second season in Div 3, having just missed out of promotion in 2019. The season got off to a slow start - our first fixture against Cirencester in May was rained off after 4 games and then Nick pulled his calf after a few games against Winchcombe. A probable 4-0 win turned into a 2-2 draw as a result. We then could not get a team out against Aston Ingham for various reasons including COVID and as they refused to rearrange amicably, Northleach were punished with a harsh 3 pt penalty. Relegation was a looking a distinct possibility. Creditable draws followed against Gloucester Wotton and Minchinhampton before finally securing our first win, a 4-0 thumping of Cirencester in the rearranged fixture. In the return fixture, Ben Orton was a last minute replacement for Sam, who was stuck in a traffic jam on the M5 until 2am, which prevented another easy win. Comfortable wins followed against Aston Ingham (3-1), before losing 4-0 to both Gloucester and Minchinhampton, the latter who brought a very strong player along to try and secure a big win in the battle for promotion. Despite these results, 2nd place and promotion was still a possibility if we had a strong end to the season ( 15 out of the last 16 points were needed and if we successfully appealed the 3pt deduction!). 4-0 wins against Civil Service and Winchcombe followed meaning 2nd place would be secured with 7 pts from the last two games. Despite a valiant effort from Mike and Colin, we could only manage a 2-2 draw with Aston Ingham meaning 2nd place was out of reach. A final 3-1 win against Civil Service provided a pleasing end to the season. The 3pt penalty was upheld and so we finished the season 3rd of 7 (4pts off Minchinhampton in 2nd). Rich and Stewart ended up ranked 3rd and 4th players for the division and Colin also in the top 10.

Despite this result, following the withdrawal of 2 teams in higher divisions, including local rivals Bourton, Northleach were promoted into Div 2 for the first time for 2022! This should prove a great challenge and survival is already the goal! Thank you for everyone who played during the season - I don't think we have had a season with more people representing the club:

Rich, Stewart, Colin, Sam, Nick, Ben, Mike and Tom

Thanks

Rich, Club Captain