The Caledonia Gladiators Women continued their strong start to the 2026–27 SLB Championship season with an impressive 76–58 victory over the London Lions in their first away game of the campaign, securing back-to-back wins to take their record to 2–0.
The Gladiators made a fast start in London, racing into an early lead and forcing the home side to call a timeout just two and a half minutes into the game, with Caledonia leading 12–4. The visitors continued to apply pressure after the timeout, building a 20-point advantage with around four minutes remaining in the opening quarter.
Frannie Hottinger led the charge, scoring 11 points in the first quarter alone while shooting 5-of-7 from the field. She carried her strong form from the previous week’s home opener against Essex Rebels into London, helping the Gladiators establish a commanding lead.
The Lions responded in the closing stages of the quarter before launching a fightback in the second. An 11–4 run cut into Caledonia’s advantage, with the home side eventually reducing the deficit to just six points. However, the Gladiators showed composure under pressure, rebuilding their double-digit lead to head into half-time ahead 49–32.
Both teams battled throughout the third quarter, with London managing to narrow the gap slightly. However, Caledonia remained in control and entered the final ten minutes with a comfortable advantage.
The Lions continued to compete in the fourth quarter, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome. The Gladiators managed the closing stages effectively to secure a convincing 76–58 road win and make it two victories from two to open the season.
Hottinger was outstanding throughout, recording 18 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks in a complete MVP performance that helped lead the Gladiators to victory.
The Gladiators Women return home next Sunday, 18 October, to face the Newcastle Eagles in the Battle of the Border clash. Tip-off is at 4pm as Caledonia look to extend their unbeaten start to the season.
Final Score: London Lions 58–76 Caledonia Gladiators