The Western Springs Lacrosse Club women's team has opened their 2026 Auckland Lacrosse League campaign with four consecutive wins, including a commanding 14–3 victory over North Harbour at Western Springs Stadium on Saturday. Coach Talia Perez, who took charge of the programme in the off-season after a stint with the New Zealand U21 side, said the squad had been transformed by a new defensive system and improved fitness levels.
Local talent shines
Arch Hill product Jade Renata led the scoring against North Harbour with five goals, taking her season tally to 17 — already more than her entire 2025 campaign. The 22-year-old, who grew up playing at Grey Lynn Park, credited the team's new attacking structure. 'We're moving the ball faster and finding space that wasn't there before,' Renata said. 'The whole group has bought into what Talia is building.'
Big tests ahead
The unbeaten run will be tested in round five when Western Springs face defending premiers Howick, who are also undefeated this season. That match is scheduled for 15 March at Lloyd Elsmore Park. Western Springs last won the Auckland women's premiership in 2019.
