Lancaster paint York red on day one: Here’s your Roses recap

The most anticipated rivalry in varsity sports is back.

Lancaster has won the last three Roses competitions, with 2025 its quest for an unprecedented fourth.

An eventful first day featured popular events like football and swimming and ended with an impressive opening ceremony, with York taking an early victory winning the first fixture, the women’s second indoor hockey, 2-0.

It soon became apparent which way the day was going with Lancaster quickly dominating proceedings. By midday York had 17 points, Lancaster had a mighty 34 with wins in climbing and table tennis helping stretch its lead.

Lancaster’s men’s third college select comfortably beating York 3-0

Friday was the only day fixtures took place in the York Sports Village with the pool offering some amazing events. Women’s first and second both drew in the swimming. Lancaster comfortably beat York in Octopush (otherwise known as underwater hockey), undoubtedly one of the coolest fixtures this weekend.  York also just pipped Lancaster in the open’s waterpolo 11- 10 whilst Lancaster women comfortably thrashed York 22-14 (a huge upset).

As part of the celebrations, a popular location today was the fan hub, where alcoholic beverages and hot food were sold.

The opening ceremony arguably featured today’s best fixture with huge crowds watching as Lancaster pipped York in the men’s basketball 71- 69.

After a huge opening day, York is miles behind on 45.5 points with Lancaster almost doubling its lead on day one with 84.5 points. Once a team crosses 172.5 points, they are declared winners.