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Canterbury prospect Lizzie Neal became one of the youngest goalscorers in top-flight history as she netted on her debut – just a month after her 15th birthday.
Neal, who played for the under-14s last season, only became eligible to play in the Investec National Premier Division when she turned 15 on October 8 and she fired the eighth goal as the city club won 9-0 at Olton & West Warwicks on Saturday.
The Kent College pupil – who was a ball-girl at Polo Farm as recently as March – said: “I was excited and couldn’t wait to play when I was asked. I was surprisingly not nervous as I couldn’t wait to play that standard of hockey with some great players.
“I thought the game went as well as I could have wanted and was so happy as I had aimed to get a goal.
“When my chance arrived, I didn’t have much time to think about it, I just took the opportunity from a cross from Jen Wilson and hit it in. I was so happy and excited.”
She added: “I just want to keep playing the most hockey I can. Unfortunately, I didn’t get into the national age group squad this year but in the future I hope to play for England.
“But for the moment, I am just happy to be playing, training and improving with the first-team and playing matches whenever I am needed.”
Canterbury sit second, behind leaders Reading on goal difference, and have a four-point lead over nearest chasers Clifton, who visit Polo Farm on Sunday (12.45pm).
Player-coach Jen Wilson said: “We had her in mind for a year or two’s time but Lizzie has looked good for the 2nds and in training and deserved her chance.”
Wilson added: “We have a big game coming up the week after against Reading but our focus is solely on Clifton.
“It will be a tough game but we’re hoping there will be a great club atmosphere with the game following mini and junior training on Sunday morning.”