Richmond Crown New Home with 11–3 Victory Over Hampstead

SEMLA Division 3 | 28 February | Richmond Athletic Ground

Richmond Lacrosse marked a momentous occasion on the final day of the 2025–26 SEMLA Division 3 season, christening their new home at Richmond Athletic Ground in style with a commanding 11–3 victory over Hampstead.

With the clubhouse buzzing and the biggest crowd of the season eager to witness a new chapter in the club’s history, Richmond started as they meant to go on, fast, physical and focused.

Fast Start Sets the Tone

From the opening face-off, Richmond asserted control. Conor Hafner’s relentless work rate in the middle proved decisive, consistently winning possession and giving his side first use. Backed superbly by his wing middies, Richmond dominated the early exchanges and quickly established the territorial advantage that would define the afternoon.

Up front, the attacking trio of Owen Keeley, Rich Laperle and Craig Phildius rotated intelligently, stretching the Hampstead defence and moving the ball with composure and purpose. Craig’s debut performance added calmness and experience to the front line, while Owen and Rich constantly threatened off-ball.

Clinical in Front of Goal

Richmond’s pressure translated efficiently onto the scoreboard. Leading the way was Rich Laperle, clinical from the top of the offence and burying a superb hat-trick to earn Man of the Match honours.

Alan Keeley was equally influential, roaming all over the field, operating with long stick, stepping into midfield, and pushing into attack, showcasing his versatility and lacrosse IQ. His energy was rewarded with a hat-trick of his own.

Rob Arnott added two goals, while Tim Sugrue and Trevor Bobowick chipped in with one apiece. The final goal of the afternoon came courtesy of an Owen Keeley crease dive,

because it’s not a Richmond game without one. The only difference this time? It actually went in.

Defensive Steel

At the other end, Barry Macleod-Cullinane, supported by Matt Blom, Stephen Brown and Stuart Page, delivered another disciplined and assured defensive display. Communication was sharp, slides were well timed, and Hampstead were limited to just three goals across the full 80 minutes.

A Season to Remember

The final whistle not only confirmed a comprehensive win but capped off a remarkable league campaign:

Played 18, Won 17.

An extraordinary return in the club's debut season and a statement of intent for the future at their new home.

It was also fitting to have Coach Mike Kline on the sidelines for the occasion, offering guidance and sharp tactical insight as Richmond closed out the season in style at their new ground.

With league business concluded in emphatic fashion, attention now turns to the Flags Cup.

Richmond begin their campaign in two weeks against Buckhurst Hill, carrying momentum, confidence and belief into the knockout stages.

If this performance was anything to go by, Richmond Athletic Ground is already becoming a formidable fortress.

Goal Scorers

• Rich Laperle (3)

• Alan Keeley (3)

• Rob Arnott (2)

• Owen Keeley (1)

• Tim Sugrue (1)

• Trevor Bobowick (1)

  
  

Final Score: Richmond 11 – Hampstead 3

Richmond Squad

Players: Barry Macleod-Cullinane; Matt Blom, Stephen Brown, Stuart Page, Alan Keeley; Conor Hafner, Tim Sugrue, Rob Arnott, Trevor Bobowick, Jacob, Daniel Taylor; Craig Phildius; Owen Keeley, Rich Laperle

Coach: Mike Kline