U11 IAPS Hockey
On Monday, the U11 girls travelled to Eastbourne College for the Regional IAPS Hockey Tournament. It was a long but fantastic day of hockey, with the team improving their play as the day progressed. Unfortunately, they missed out on a place in the Cup competition on goal difference by just one goal, which meant they went on to compete in the Plate.
Determined to keep giving their all, the girls produced some excellent hockey. They won their quarter-final match against Holy Cross School 2–0 and then faced Handcross Park in the semi-final. It was an end-to-end game with chances at both ends, but neither side could find the net, leading to a tense round of penalty shuffles. This was both exciting and nerve-wracking, as it was the team’s first experience of them. The scores were level at 2–2 after the first round, taking us into sudden death, where we were unfortunately edged out.
In the 3rd place play-off against Rose Hill, the girls dominated possession but just couldn’t find a way through, and the match finished 0–0. Both schools agreed that joint 3rd place in the Plate was a fair result.
Very well done to all the girls, who were a real pleasure to take and exemplary in their sportsmanship and attitude throughout the day.
Results
Brambletye: Lost 0-2
Brighton College Prep: Drew 0-0
Marlborough House, Vinehall: Won 3-0
Holy Cross: Won 2-0
Handcross Park: Drew 0-0, lost 2-3 on penalty shuffles.
Rosehill: Drew 0-0
On Wednesday there was a lot of hockey and every girl who was present, fit and able got to play in a match.
1st Team Hockey
The U13 Girls’ 1st Team produced one of their best performances of the season in an impressive 6–3 away victory over Bede’s.
The girls started strongly, showing excellent teamwork and attacking intent. Bella was in fine attacking form as always, scoring twice in the first half to give Holmewood a 2–1 lead at the break. After half-time, the team maintained their momentum, displaying composure on the ball and improved focus and composure in front of goal. Bella added two more to complete a superb four-goal haul, while Antonia scored twice with confident finishes to seal the win.
At the other end, Pippa was exceptional in goal, pulling off several world-class saves to keep the team ahead. Tilly marshalled the defence superbly, while Trixie led the attack brilliantly from the right wing and Clemmie impressed with her energy and control on the left. Millie showed great resilience, recovering from a heavy early knock to play some of her best hockey of the season.
It was a thoroughly deserved victory, built on teamwork, determination and attacking flair. Girls of the Game were Pippa and Trixie for their outstanding contributions, but the whole team impressed and should be really proud of themselves. DB
2nd Team Hockey
The Girls’ 2nd team faced St Michael’s in what proved to be another frustrating match. We struggled to find our rhythm early on and conceded an early goal as a result. However, the team showed real determination to regroup and grow into the game. Improved structure and persistence eventually paid off with a well-earned equaliser. Despite late pressure from both sides, the match ended in a draw. Well done girls! DG
3rd Team Hockey
A difficult result, but there were positives in the performance. The team competed well early on and created good chances, though two defensive lapses made it 2–0 at halftime. The response after the break was strong, the girls took on feedback given at half time which led to higher intensity and better positioning resulting in a well-taken goal for 2–1. While pushing for an equaliser, the team was caught on the counter twice late in the game. Despite the scoreline, the effort, attacking intent, and midfield performances were encouraging signs to build on. MI
4th Team Hockey
The scoreline was harsh, but there were encouraging signs throughout the match. The team started brightly, keeping possession well and creating a few early chances. Even after falling behind, the work rate and belief didn’t drop. A well-constructed team goal in the second half showed real quality in attack, and several players stood out—especially in midfield, where pressing and link-up play were strong. The wide players offered pace and creativity, causing problems for the opposition. Defensive lapses proved costly, but the overall effort, teamwork, and attacking intent were clear positives to build on heading into the next match. MI
U11 Hockey
The Under 11 girls played a block fixture against St Michael’s, with all girls taking part in at least one match.
U11A Hockey The A team started strongly, dominating play in the first half and scoring a great goal to take the lead. However, St Michael’s raised their game after the break and launched a series of strong attacks. Despite some excellent defensive work and brilliant saves from Matilda in goal, they managed to score two good goals and went on to win 2–1. The team’s play has improved greatly over the term, and their teamwork is really coming together. Well done to all the girls, and especially to Matilda, who was named Player of the Match. SP
U11B Hockey The B team showed real shape and control throughout their match, dominating from start to finish. Their passing and movement were excellent, with some confident runs out of defence. The team scored three fine goals—two from Amelie and one from Isla—while St Michael’s managed just one in reply. It was a great win and a clear reflection of how much the team has improved. Very well done to everyone, and especially to Amelie, who was Player of the Match. SP
U11C Hockey The C team faced tough opposition but fought hard to stay in the game. Sofia worked tirelessly in defence, making several key clearances, despite not being a regular goalkeeper. There was some strong running down the wings and determined play through the middle, but the team were unable to convert their chances. Sofia was deservedly voted Player of the Match by the opposition, and the whole team should be proud of their effort and resilience. SP
U11D Hockey The D team played two matches against St Michael’s and worked hard as a unit throughout. It was great to see several girls stepping up their effort levels and contributing strongly. Annabelle showed great energy with her runs up the pitch, and Anne worked hard to move the ball forward. Tavonga scored both of our goals, while Florence W was named Player of the Match. The final result over the two games was a well-earned 2–2 draw. Well done, girls, and keep up the good work! SP
U10A Hockey
Won 3 1
This away fixture was another opportunity to play St Michaels this term and the girls played a fantastic game. If only to highlight how in tune they are with each other, knowing where each player is, using all the space wisely, when and where to pass. Great stick skills and superb finishing. Two infringements in the opposition’s D allowed St Michaels to take a shot 1 v 1 with Amelie. One went in but an outstanding dive to the right saved the other – we are lucky to have a formidable goalie in our team ! 2 goals from Cecilia and 1 from Margot but huge praise from Mrs Easton for an excellent performance from the whole team – POM Winter and Amelie. Well Done to Margot, Madeleine, Cecilia, Alana, Ottilie and Emma. SE
U10B Hockey
Won 6 3
On arrival, two teams from St Michaels were waiting to play 2 shorter games back to back. A really good start but two early shots that found the back of the goal were disallowed as they were sent
from outside of the shooting area. We quickly corrected this as goals thereafter were aplenty. Romy 3, Lottie 2 and Toluwani 1. The girls worked hard in attack bringing the ball through with powerful passing and finding good space and better positioning. However moments when we didn’t all run back and left all the defending to just Rosie and Scarlett allowed St Michaels to score. This improved throughout the afternoon – lots of energy and working collaboratively and pretty tired legs at the end ! But a great performance from everyone. POM Romy and Rosie Well Done to Scarlett, Anni, Lottie, Cara and Toluwani. SE
U10C Hockey
The U10C team travelled to Marlborough House Vinehall on Wednesday to compete in a lively and competitive tournament.
HH vs Somerhill – 0-3 We faced a challenging opening match against a strong Somerhill side. Sophie made several solid defensive clearances, helping to relieve pressure at the back. Libby was unlucky not to score with a promising shot on goal.
HH vs Sacred Heart – 1-0 In our second game, the team began to use space more effectively and retained possession with greater confidence. This paid off when Zara found the back of the net with a well-taken goal to secure a deserved win.
HH vs St Ronan’s – 1-1 Coming straight off the back of our previous match, we started this game slightly fatigued. St Ronan’s took an early lead, but some resolute defending from Bonnie helped turn the tide. Sofia then made a fantastic run the length of the pitch to score the equaliser.
HH vs Beechwood – 0-0 The team dominated much of the play in this match, with Sophie and Tomiwa putting in strong tackles to keep Beechwood at bay. Despite a number of attacking chances from Libby, Nova, and Sofia, we were unable to convert our opportunities into goals.
Overall, it was a great afternoon of hockey with lots of progress made by the team. Well done to all involved on a spirited and enjoyable tournament. KB
Under 9 Hockey
The U9 girls had a great day of hockey at Somerhill, showing noticeable improvement in both their teamwork and tactical awareness. Playing 6-a-side, the team worked hard to develop their understanding of positioning and made real progress in running off the ball to create space in attack.
Special mentions go to Iona, Connie, and Issy for their excellent development in understanding and applying positional roles throughout the matches. Well done to all the girls for their energy, effort, and enthusiasm on the pitch! KB
Under 8 Hockey
Somerhill arrived with 4 teams ready to play our last hockey fixture of this half term. The girls were very excited and once again played with different girls across the year group. The confidence in running with the ball has improved greatly and there seems to be more of an understanding of positions. The defenders are ready to clear the ball away from the goal whilst the midfield and attack work hard to take the ball forward to the goal. Winning all 4 matches was the icing on the cake and gives the girls real motivation to work hard after a restful break. SP
