Boys’ Sport

The 1st XI faced a very strong Somerhill side in what proved to be a challenging encounter. Despite some positive moments — testing the goalkeeper with long-range efforts, causing problems on the counter-attack, and showing strength in midfield — the boys struggled to maintain possession against Somerhill’s pace and pressing. After conceding from a corner and a superb strike from distance, they went in 2–0 down at half-time. The second half was equally tough as Somerhill pressed high and capitalised on mistakes to extend their lead, finishing 6–0 winners. Despite the result, there were positives to take in moments of determined defending and attacking play, and the boys will look to build on these in their next fixture.

The 2nd XI enjoyed a fine win away at The New Beacon. Choosing to play downhill in the first half proved a smart decision as the team created good attacking opportunities and scored to take a 1–0 lead into the break. In the second half, New Beacon came back strongly, but Holmewood defended with real determination and hit on the counter to score again, sealing a well-deserved 2–0 victory.

The 3rd XI, making their debut on the 1st team pitch, also faced Somerhill. After a frantic opening, the boys settled into the game, passing well and moving the ball into space. They took the lead thanks to excellent work in attack and, though Somerhill created chances, some outstanding saves and brave defending kept them at bay. The midfield linked play effectively and showed great composure, while tireless running and strong clearances ensured the team stayed in control. With fewer chances overall, Holmewood were clinical when it mattered and came away with a well-earned win in a very entertaining match.

Meanwhile, the 4th XI battled hard against New Beacon but were beaten 6–1. Despite the scoreline, there were encouraging moments in possession and plenty of effort across the pitch.

U11s

The U11A side faced Brighton College and, despite working hard throughout, were beaten 4–0 by a strong and organised opposition. There were good spells of attacking play and some strong defensive moments, but Brighton proved too clinical on the day.

The U11B team, however, produced one of the standout performances of the week, running out 9–0 winners on the South Lawn. After a bright start in the tackle, the boys grew into the game and began to find their passing range and finishing touch. Once the first goal went in, the floodgates opened. Every part of the team contributed — from solid defending to energetic midfield play and sharp finishing in attack. Goals were shared across the side, and the boys should be very proud of such a complete and dominant display.

The U10A team faced a very strong Brighton College side and, despite working hard, were beaten 9–0. The boys never gave up and showed great spirit, which will stand them in good stead for future matches.

The U10B team hosted Brighton College in a competitive and closely fought 9-a-side match. Holmewood created the better chances, attacking with intent and linking play well. However, they were unable to convert and the game was decided by misfortune — after an excellent save, the rebound cruelly bounced in for the only goal of the match. The boys kept working hard until the final whistle and can be proud of their teamwork and positive attitude.

U10C: Following a thorough warm-up ahead of our second fixture of the season, the team faced Brighton with a number of changes in the line-up, as several players had moved up to the Bs and we fielded a combined C/D side. This required the boys to adapt quickly, working with new teammates and demonstrating strong teamwork skills.

The first half saw us dominate possession and create numerous chances, repeatedly pressing for the opening goal. Despite this pressure, we were unable to convert until the final minute of the half, when Emilio produced a composed finish to give us a well-deserved lead going into the break.

Early in the second half, Emilio struck again, this time capitalising on an excellent assist from Freddy R. Brighton responded with a powerful effort that threatened to turn the game, but goalkeeper Max produced a superb reflex save to preserve our advantage.

Emilio was named Player’s Player for his attacking performance, while Jackson S earned recognition for his tireless work rate across the pitch. Well done to the whole team – a strong performance and an encouraging result. We look forward to building on this in next week’s fixture.

U9s