High Praise from Opposition Coach

On Wednesday, the girls 1st XI and 2nd XI, after only one practice outdoors on the hard play, travelled to Oundle for the 1st of 4 hockey matches that they play in the Michaelmas term.

The 1st XI used the warm up wisely to get used to playing on the astro and their spirits were high when the whistle went. 5 players were making their debuts for the 1st XI and they were eager to set a good impression and cement their places in the side before the season starts properly next term.

Inevitably, it took a while for the girls to settle into the match and the 5th formers took their time to come to terms with the strength, speed and physicality of the game as they were playing against a group of girls who were a year older than themselves.

However, the girls were able to dominate large periods of the game and were able to create fast and incisive breaks due to the pace of the forwards and the midfield. Unfortunately, none of the early chances were able to be converted and these were punished by a momentary lapse in concentration as Oundle were able to find space behind the defence and scored.

After an encouraging team talk at half time, Bilton Grange came out with much more purpose and confidence in the second half and passed the ball well using the width of the pitch. Once again, chances came and went as the girls put together some flowing moves. Another well executed goal midway through the second half by Oundle provided an uphill challenge which the 1st XI did their best to overcome. However, a mixture of fine saves and narrow misses meant that they could not reduce the deficit.

The girls should not be disappointed with the defeat because the signs are very promising for next term. In the next few weeks, we will concentrate on our striking of the ball and our composure in front of goal. They received some very glowing comments at the end of the match from the Oundle coaches which included they think that the 1st XI will be a difficult team to beat next term and also that they are glad not to be playing Bilton Grange next term when we are playing hockey on a regular basis.

Meanwhile, the 2nd XI match followed a similar pattern with them taking their time to find their feet and, as the game progressed, confidence developed as did the quality of the hockey. They were resolute in the defence and looked promising and determined in attack. However, there was one moment when Oundle were able to penetrate the defence and score the only goal of the match. The signs are promising and it is clear there is going to be a great deal of competition for places within both of the teams.

CJH  

 


Tags: Hockey, Prep, Sport