Match Report Round-Up: A Week of Sporting Spirit and Success!

What a fantastic week it’s been for sport at King’s St Alban’s! From the rugby pitch to the hockey field and the swimming pool, our pupils have been showing tremendous effort, teamwork, and resilience in every fixture. Whether battling against tough opposition, adapting to new challenges, or taking part in their very first gala, the children represented KSA with pride and enthusiasm. Here’s a look back at a week packed with brilliant performances, great sportsmanship, and plenty of memorable moments!

Monday 3rd November 

U11 Rugby v Hymers College

It was straight back to full-contact rugby for the Under 11 A team on their first day back after the half-term break, as they hosted a touring side from Hymers College at Slingpool Walk. From the opening kick-off, it was clear that the visitors were a big, strong, and physical team, which meant that every St. Alban’s player needed to be equally strong and committed in defence. After an early setback, losing returning player Ben to a knee injury, the boys quickly adapted their tackling technique – learning that going lower was the key to stopping Hymers’ powerful runners. 

St. Alban’s opened their account with some well-worked tries from Hugo, Adam, and Max, who all put in consistently impressive performances throughout the match. Both teams exchanged scores in a closely contested encounter, but the home side showed outstanding effort and determination in defence, particularly during a prolonged period of Hymers pressure. Their resilience paid off when, after several well-constructed phases, Aaron crossed the line for a brilliant team try. It was particularly pleasing to see the Year 5 boys – Monty, Matthew, Haadi, Eli, Dylan, Max, and Jack – stepping up superbly to support the Year 6s. They all gained valuable experience playing alongside and against some very talented older players. 

As the match wore on, the high defensive workload began to tell, and St. Alban’s conceded a couple of late tries. However, the boys refused to give up, finishing the game strongly with some determined attacking play. Considering that the team was missing several regular players through injury, this was a performance to be proud of. Every player worked hard for their teammates and demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and teamwork throughout. A special mention goes to the defenders who managed to “hold up” Hymers’ ball carriers over the try line on two separate occasions, a tremendous show of defensive determination that prevented what looked like certain scores. 

Well done to Adam, Hugo, Max, Ben, Monty, Matthew, Haadi, Eli, Dylan, Max and Jack – you all represented St. Alban’s superbly! Finally, a big thank you to all the parents and relatives who came along to support and cheer on the boys. 

U11 Rugby v Hymers College 

On Monday, our U10s put in a fantastic performance against a very strong Hymers College side. From the first whistle, the lads showed real determination and commitment, giving everything right up until the final play. The opening stages of the second half were particularly impressive, with some outstanding defensive work keeping Hymers at bay. The boys held their defensive line brilliantly, tackling hard and working together to deny Hymers any early tries, a true show of teamwork and grit. 

Despite Hymers’ strength and skill, our team never gave up and continued to battle throughout the match. Every player showed real heart, supporting each other and playing with pride. A special mention must go to Bertie, who scored our only try of the game, a well-deserved reward for his effort and determination. 

Overall, a brilliant team effort from start to finish against a very strong side. 

U11 & U10 Netball v Hymers 

Our 3 netball teams faced Hymers (a touring side) in competitive fixtures on Monday afternoon. This was their first netball match this academic year, with some girls playing they very first match ever. They showcased some excellent skill, teamwork, and determination across the board. All players demonstrated impressive movement on court, consistently coming towards the ball and making themselves available for passes, which led to fluid play throughout the matches. 

The A team match was particularly well-balanced, with both sides displaying strong defensive structures and quick transitions. Our players worked hard to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities, resulting in a closely contested game. 

In the B and C team fixtures, Hymers proved to be the stronger side, applying consistent pressure and capitalising on turnovers. Despite this, our teams showed great resilience and teamwork, continuing to fight for every ball and demonstrating commendable sportsmanship. It was encouraging to see their confidence grow as the games progressed, and their commitment to improving was evident. 

Well done to all players involved – a fantastic effort and a valuable learning experience against strong opposition. 

 

Tuesday 4th November 

U8 Rugby festival at RGS

Despite the wet and challenging conditions, the U8 tag rugby festival was another successful afternoon of sport and teamwork. The boys built on their pre-half-term performances, showing clear progress in their understanding of the game and applying their learning with confidence. A key highlight was the effort to move the ball wider, involving more players in attack. Xander and Rory contributed well in this area, helping to stretch the opposition and create space. Strong running from Theo, Wilf, and Ben added momentum, leading to several well-worked team tries. 

Support play was excellent, with players backing each other up and communicating effectively. Defensively, the team grew in confidence, making assured tags and staying organised under pressure. Ivan stood out for his leadership, helping to organise the defensive line and encourage his teammates. Overall, a very positive afternoon with lots to celebrate. Well done to all involved! 

U9/8 Hockey festival at RGS 

On Tuesday afternoon, the U8 and U9 girls took part in an exciting hockey festival at RGS The Grange. Despite the wet and rainy conditions, their determination and team spirit shone through as each team played five matches with energy and enthusiasm. The girls demonstrated some excellent defensive play, with a few strong attacking moments that led to promising goal-scoring opportunities, seeing a 1 all draw with hawford in one game. It was fantastic to see their confidence grow and skills develop throughout the afternoon. From positioning to passing, the progress made across the matches was clear and commendable. Their resilience and positive attitude were truly impressive, and they should be proud of their efforts on the pitch. Well done to Leen, Nell, Luna, Molly and Lakshmi. Congratulations to Lakshmi who was so chuffed she scored her first goal, quickly followed by a second! 

 

Wednesday 5th November 

U11 Rugby v The Downs 

On Wednesday, eighteen pupils from Years 5 and 6 travelled over the Malvern Hills to face The Downs in what proved to be a thoroughly entertaining and hard-fought fixture. Alongside this, the Under 10s were also in action, playing two slightly shorter matches against The Downs and King’s Hawford. 

With two regular club players unavailable, the St. Alban’s team knew they would have to be at their best to get a good result. Fortunately, the side was strengthened by the inclusion of Martha, an experienced and regular club player, whose presence added both skill and leadership to the squad. However, the game began in the worst possible way when Ben was forced to retire early after re-aggravating his knee injury while making a brave try-saving tackle. With the Under 10s playing simultaneously, St. Alban’s were left with one player fewer for the remainder of the first half – a daunting challenge against a strong Downs side. 

Rather than let their heads drop, the setback only served to galvanise the team. Max, Martha, and Hugo led by example, working tirelessly in both attack and defence, seemingly involved in every tackle and ruck. Joshua and Pip enjoyed their most active performances of the season, frequently getting on the ball and driving play forward, while Theo provided excellent support and energy throughout. Despite being outnumbered, St. Alban’s showed tremendous resilience. Although The Downs were able to exploit the extra space to score several tries, St. Alban’s hit back through determined running from Hugo and Max, who each crossed the line multiple times. Their efforts meant that, against the odds, the visitors from St. Alban’s reached half time with a narrow lead. 

After an inspiring team talk and the arrival of fresh legs from Year 5, the team began the second half with renewed energy. More well-worked tries followed, and with the match remaining competitive, Max and Hugo were given a well-earned rest to allow others the chance to shine. This provided valuable experience for the younger players, who rose to the challenge admirably. Martha’s leadership was particularly impressive – she commanded the breakdowns, organised the defensive line, and ensured the team maintained their structure and focus until the final whistle. While the match was not primarily about the scoreline, the team was delighted to come away with a hard-earned victory; a result built on teamwork, determination, and resilience. Every player who took to the field should be proud of their contribution. 

A special mention goes to Martha, Max, and Hugo, whose outstanding performances were instrumental in securing the win. Finally, a huge thank you to all the parents and relatives who made the journey to support the team – your encouragement from the touchline is always greatly appreciated. 

 

U10 Rugby v The Downs

The KSA U10s travelled to The Downs School for a triangular fixture against King’s Hawford and The Downs. Despite coming off a two week half term break, the boys showed no signs of rust and produced their most complete rugby of the season so far. 

Our opening match against King’s Hawford was outstanding. The boys played proper rugby, keeping calm under pressure, trusting each other to secure the ruck, and showing real patience in attack. Instead of forcing play, they built their phases intelligently and took their chances with confidence. Max C opened the scoring with a determined finish in the corner after spotting space out wide. In the second half, Bertie followed with an almost identical try, using his pace and awareness to exploit the space on the left. It was a composed and confident team performance from start to finish. 

During our break, a few of the boys stepped up to help the U11s in their fixture, showing tremendous attitude and adaptability. That experience is clearly accelerating their rugby development. 

Our final match of the day was against The Downs. This presented a new challenge as the boys were encouraged to move the ball quickly through the hands and spread play down the line. They responded brilliantly, with Monty R powering over for his first try of the term after breaking through the defensive line with determination and pace. 

Two excellent performances from the team, full of effort, skill and teamwork. The progress these boys are making week by week is clear for all to see. Well done boys! 

 

U11/10 Hockey v Blue Coat 

The U11 girls produced an excellent display of hockey against Blue Coat, adapting superbly to a smaller pitch than they are used to. From the first whistle, the game was fast-paced and end-to-end, with both teams battling for control. The reduced space meant the girls had to focus on shorter, sharper passes and work extra hard to find space. Something they did brilliantly throughout the match. Their movement off the ball and communication were brilliant, allowing them to create attacking opportunities while staying solid defensively. Millie and Elizabeth were rock-solid at the back, making crucial tackles and clearances to remove any threats, ensuring the score remained 0-0 at half-time. 

The second half didn’t start as planned, with Blue Coat scoring two quick goals. However, the girls showed fantastic resilience and character, continuing to play their hockey with determination and belief. Romi’s quick thinking from a 16-yard hit out found Thea high up the pitch, who finished clinically to make it 2-1. With Nell working tirelessly up and down the pitch in midfield while our wingers Romi, Hannah, Flo, Cerys (Birthday girl) created lots of attacking runs towards the D. Thea was excellent with her counter attacks and setting the press throughout the match upfront. The team continued to push forward, creating several promising chances but just couldn’t find the equaliser. 

Despite the narrow defeat, the second-half display was some of the best hockey we’ve seen from this group this year. The girls were full of teamwork, character, and commitment to continue playing till the full time whistle. The girls should be very proud regardless of the result with many positives to take away. 

 

U10 Hockey v Blue Coat  

King’s St Alban’s faced The Bluecoat School in a competitive 7-a-side match filled with energy and determination. From the first whistle, the girls worked tirelessly, showing great teamwork and resilience against a strong opponent. 

Despite creating some promising chances, King’s were unable to find the back of the net. The Bluecoat School took their opportunities, converting their short corners, to win 2–0. Savannah stood out in goal with several superb diving saves, keeping the team in contention throughout. It was a spirited display and a valuable learning experience for all the players involved. 

 

Thursday 6th November 

U9/8 Swimming Gala

We were delighted to host our first Year 3 and 4 swimming gala of the year, welcoming teams from RGS The Grange and King’s Hawford for what proved to be a fantastic afternoon of swimming. There were plenty of excited (and understandably nervous) faces on poolside, with many children taking part in their first ever gala. Before the races began, I reminded everyone that all I ever ask is for them to do their best and enjoy themselves, and they certainly did both! 

From the very first race, the children gave it their all, showing great determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout. The pool was filled with energy, encouragement, and plenty of smiles – especially as each swimmer climbed out, proud of their performance. It was wonderful to see how the hard work in lessons and clubs is paying off, with confident strokes, strong finishes, and excellent relay teamwork on display. 

Overall, it was a hugely successful gala and a brilliant way to start their swimming gala journeys. Well done to all our swimmers, you made us incredibly proud!