IN THE opening match of the UK Womens' League, newly promoted Trafford AC showed that they are going to be a force to be reckoned with.

A superb team effort took the squad into fourth place against the nation's finest and but for two injuries could well have snatched a win.

As usual international Janine Whitlock led the way with another league record in the pole vault and followed this with a great run in the 200m.

Jo Mahony at last demonstrated her potential with her best-ever 400m hurdles crushing an international field and Katie Jones gave good support with second in the B event.

Young Kelly Brownhill was delighted with two season's best in the 800m and 1500m as was Karen McPherson in the 1500m.

Lyndsay Kehoe and Emma Brady completed the middle distance squad at the backbone of the team.

New members Maria Bolsover and Liz Fairs showed up well in the sprints and another debutant, 16 year old Rachel Hogg did well in both long and triple jump giving good support to a rejuventated Justian Cruikshank.

Another 16 year old Emma Johnson gave a pleasing performance in the high jump aided by Nicola Gauter who was also busy picking up points in the hurdles and shot.

Helen Wilding and Laura Wood were prominent in the throws and Caroline White and Joanne Harding formed a good scoring partnership in the javelin.

This team result virtually assures the club of maintaining its place among the elite of the sport.

The Northern league team continued their campaign at Warrington where another good result left them leading the table after two matches.

Paula Thomas' squad were again in good form with Lisa Trotman, Chloe Bass, Gill Burns, Adeline Eago and Juanita Coleman all making signficant contributions.

Among the seniors Sue Briggs made a winning return from injury and there were good wins from Sam Holt, Rachel Smith, Tracy Austin, Sandra Ansbro and Diane Lockley.

Angela Lockley again won all three throws in the U15 section where she was well supported by Sam Nugent and Kate Ansbro while Laura Messer won the high jump again.

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