The two Ryans: Jenkins and Oyler discuss tactics at JBL (Picture courtesy of John Upham)

Wales A ended the first weekend of the Junior British League at the top of the Boys Premier Division. A tightly contested draw with Ormesby followed by victory over Wood Green in the final match of the weekend secured them top spot. Hot on their heels are reigning champions BBATT. Like Wales, they drew with Ormesby after a 5-1 victory over Greenhouse to leave them well in contention at the half-way stage.

Burton Uxbridge’s defence of their Premier Girls crown started perfectly after registering five consecutive wins. They backed up their start to Saturday with a 6-0 win over Draycott before overcoming rivals Irish Girls 4-2 to move two points clear at the midway stage. St. Andrews remain their nearest rivals after an impressive second day, first easing past the Irish Girls before registering an impressive win over Kingfisher.

Bournemouth Sports have a commanding lead over Boys Division 1 after establishing a three point lead at the top. They won all five of their games in a dominant display, including a 4-2 win over nearest rivals Irish Boys to secure their lead.

Ulster Girls replicated Bournemouth’s start to the season, opening a three point gap at the point of the Division. A 4-2 win over second placed Draycott put them in a firm position and secured their solid start with 5-1 victory over Northfield.

Boys Division 2A remains evenly poised with just two points separating four sides. Wales B perch at the top of the standings following victory over UCD Dublin and then a draw with second placed Formby, who surrendered their lead at the top of the table following defeat against Draycott.

Meanwhile, Northfield Boys ended the first weekend with a 100% record to lead division 2B three points clear. Convincing wins over Halifax and Bankfield marked a successful weekend for Northfield, who have right to be confident ahead of the second round of fixtures.

Finally, Girls Division 2 remains the most tightly contested division with just two points separating five teams. Sussex hold a slender lead following two draws to end the season, but with Fusion, Brixham, Draycott III and Warrington all chasing after them, the second weekend promises to be intriguing.

Written by Matt Shaw (October 17, 2013)