U11 v Ranby House Drew 2-2

This match really was a thrilling and exciting end to our season and it has to be said that our U11 girls have made some tremendous progress throughout this term. Not only did they play exceptionally well but their sportsmanlike behaviour and team work during the match was a true credit to S. Anselm's.

Ranby clearly had a strong team and, as we had chosen to shoot up hill first, it meant we had to put all our energies initially into protecting our goal area. Soon we settled into the game and Emma H dribbled the ball swiftly up the wing, slapping an excellent cross to Nancy S, who shot at goal. Their GK saved the first attempt but Lilly S was on the GK's pads ready to put the ball over the line.

The half time whistle meant that it was time for us to catch our breath and look forward to the 2nd half playing down hill. We discussed dribbling the ball into spaces and only passing when we thought we were going to be tackled.

The second half appeared to bring with is a series of unfortunate events for our team. Nancy S was quick to notice that Ranby now had 10 players on the pitch (instead of the agreed 9 aside) which their teacher apologised for. However, we soon realised that we must has been playing against 10 throughout the whole of the first half as well. No wonder our girls were out of breath at half time!

Alterations were made by Ranby and the second half was restarted. We definitely looked like the stronger team and were now running after every ball. Emma H finally managed to push the ball over the line after a series of shots at goal. We were 2-1 up! With the clock being stopped for an injury and a Ranby goal disallowed by their umpire... we were counting down the minutes till the end of the game. Towards the very end of the game, Miss Flack's stop watch suddenly stopped working (it was probably frozen!) and with their umpire not restarting her watch after the injury, it was agreed to play just one more minute.

Then, in the final few seconds, Ranby created another break and scored an equalizer.

This was a highly competitive and exciting match, which resulted in a draw. However, had the gods been on our side, perhaps we should have won?!

I have been very pleased with how much my U11 team have progressed this term, not only with their skills but also their attitude and team spirit has really developed. They have transformed every aspect of their game this term and I am very proud of all they have achieved. The Ranby teacher not only complimented us on our hockey but was also highly impressed by how 'polite, friendly and helpful' all our girls were.

A thrilling end to a good season!

Players of the Match: Chloe R-S and Emma H