Year 5 & 6 Girls Show Resilience in Season-Opening Hockey Fixtures

On Wednesday, every girl in Year 5 and 6 at King’s Hawford travelled to Bromsgrove for their highly anticipated first hockey matches of the season. Despite facing tough opponents and battling extreme weather, the girls demonstrated exceptional resilience and determination across all teams.

Mrs. Butt’s Team vs Bromsgrove
King’s Hawford U11 girls secured a well-deserved 2-0 victory over Bromsgrove in a well-fought match. The game began evenly, but King’s Hawford quickly gained control, showcasing discipline in holding their positions and pressing high during Bromsgrove’s hit-outs. Midfielders Millie, Thea, and Marnie led the tactical play, keeping Bromsgrove pinned in their own half for much of the game.

The breakthrough came when Pippa unleashed a powerful shot from the top of the circle, putting King’s Hawford ahead 1-0. In the second half, the pressure continued, with Marnie doubling the lead by cleverly sneaking the ball between the keeper’s pads. The team’s short corner execution was particularly effective, creating multiple chances.

Defensively, Pip K, Olivia G, and Chloe S were rock solid, limiting Bromsgrove’s chances. Goalkeeper Mary had a quiet game but remained alert when needed. This comprehensive performance highlighted King’s Hawford’s teamwork, tactical discipline, and defensive solidity. Player of the Match was awarded to Marnie P for her outstanding contributions.

Year 5 A and B Teams vs Bromsgrove
The Year 5 girls also faced Bromsgrove in exciting matches, despite the challenging weather. Mrs. Beech’s A team fought hard in a 1-1 draw. After Bromsgrove took the lead with a sweeping shot before halftime, Addie sent a long ball into the D, where Maisie skillfully maneuvered past the goalkeeper to equalize. Addie K and Bella P were named Players of the Match for their key roles in the team’s performance.

On the adjacent pitch, Miss Holtham’s B team secured a 1-0 victory. At halftime, they were already leading, thanks to impressive individual play from Valerie and Daisy. Abby and Annie provided strong support in both attack and defense. Special recognition goes to new goalkeepers Robyn and Ruby, who handled the relentless downpour with impressive composure. Valerie M and Annie W were named Players of the Match for their outstanding efforts.

Despite the severe weather and tough competition, all of King’s Hawford’s teams displayed remarkable perseverance and teamwork. The girls will now look forward to building on these strong performances as the season progresses. A huge congratulations to all the players, staff, and supportive parents for their efforts in such extreme conditions!

As part of their captaincy responsibilities at King’s Hawford, the Year 5 and 6 Captains have the important duty of writing match reports and reflecting on their team’s performance.

Charlotte F Match Report

On a sunny afternoon, we travelled to Bromsgrove School for our first hockey match of the season with excitement. Near the end of the first half, Bromsgrove attacked our goal, and despite a courageous effort from Robyn, the ball slipped past her, and Bromsgrove scored. When Bromsgrove had the ball, Bella made some amazing tackles to win it back.

Addy made some fantastic interceptions and controlled the ball well. Jas moved the ball effectively and ran up the pitch, helped by Rose. Zara defended well against Bromsgrove’s attacks and passed accurately. Florrie helped defend, then moved up to support the attack. After a strong centre hit from Charlotte F to the top of the D, the ball was struck towards the goal by Addie. Although it was saved, it rebounded and was pushed into the goal by Maisie L. We were level!

Suddenly, the rain came down, and then hailstones pelted us. We sprinted to the trees for cover. With a clap of thunder, the triangular was abandoned, and it was funny because Mrs. Beech and Miss Holtham were scared of the storm, but they both looked after the teams really well. We then headed off for a delicious tea. Thank you, Bromsgrove!

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Florrie W Match Report

The Year 5 girls excitedly got into the minibus to drive to Bromsgrove School for the first match of the year! The minibus was full of chatter, singing, and laughter. Our first match started in beautiful sunshine. After the warm-up, we began to play against Bromsgrove.

Everyone worked very hard on the pitch, and it was great to have a goalkeeper for the first time. Charlotte led a strong team and worked hard as captain. Maisie, Adelyn, and Bella were great at running and protecting our midfield. Robyn was excellent as goalkeeper and helped us a lot. Jasmine and Rosie kept putting pressure on all the players and showed great determination. Zara worked hard in defense, clearing the ball when needed.

Unfortunately, we were one goal down until Maisie scored an excellent goal after halftime. But then the clouds came, followed by hail, thunder, rain, and lightning, and the match had to be called off! We had to huddle under trees for shelter and warmth!

I would like to say well done to all the players and thank you to the umpires and coaches. I can’t wait for match number 2!

Weather Challenges for Miss Lake’s Team
Unfortunately, apocalyptic weather, including driving rain, hail, thunder, and lightning, meant Miss Lake’s team was unable to get on the pitch for their match against KSA. The game was stopped early, but the girls showed tremendous resilience in handling the extreme conditions. They are now looking ahead to next week’s fixtures.