Devizes Hockey are celebrating a club milestone after the U18 girls have reached the finals of a national competition for the first time.

On Sunday the U18s travelled to West Yorkshire to face Ben Rhydding Hockey Club in the semi-finals of England Hockey’s Tier 2 Plate Championship.

A hard-fought match – with the winning goal scored in the final minutes – delivered a 2-1 win to Devizes and sees the U18s in the national finals of the competition. 

The team, who also won the West Hockey Tier 1 League just weeks ago, now face Old Silhillians U18 girls in the final on April 3, at Cambridge University’s hockey centre.

Captain Bella Ward said: "I am so proud of the team for the performances throughout this season, but particularly today when every individual worked incredibly hard and with passion."

Alex Holloway, Devizes HC’s Head of Junior Hockey and U18 coach, added: "Our girls continue their incredible journey. 

"What impressed me was the composure shown by the whole team and the way leaders in the team stepped up. As a group they never seemed to panic - just played their game and got their reward. 

"The hard work continues as we prep for what promises to be a fantastic final."