Staff vs Sports Leaders Hockey.

As November rolled to a chilly conclusion the MUGA was the setting for some red- hot hockey. The sport leaders went into the game full of confidence. They were on the back of a successful term, with both the boys and girls teams enjoying lots of hockey. Hockey has been very popular this year and a number of the pupils who regularly attend training were available to play in this game.

As staff finished their marking and completed reports the game started with many sport leaders taking up places in the staff team. Sophia played striker briefly for the staff and converted a good goal. Ted was also a commanding presence in goal and Tilly put in a strong showing in midfield. Thanks to these players for helping to fill out the staff team.

The sport leaders side really took the game to the staff with Mike, Alex, Sayba and Eleanor prominent in the early exchanges. The staff team had plenty of hockey experience with Mrs Hart, Mr Whittaker, Mrs Cameron, Miss White and Mrs White all seasoned club players. Louie, Vinny, Charlie and Dan tried hard to get in behind the older legs but often the first few yards are made up in the brain rather than the body. The youngest player on the staff side, Mr Banwell, proved to be a real handful throughout. Taking the attacking awareness and skill he has honed on the football pitch, Mr Banwell was a constant menace on the left-hand side, showing deft touches and constant running. His pace was a frequent outlet for the staff team and they were able to put him into a number of dangerous positions. When Mr Drew arrived to take up the final place on the team, the staff team were just too strong for their younger opponents. The sport leaders gave everything but were unable to repel the staffs' attacks and also unable to unlock a defence that was expertly marshalled by Mrs Hart and ably supported by Mr Mallett and Mrs Scott. Some of the play from the staff team was just scintillating. One of the standout goals when the ball was worked across the back field and then played Crossfield to Mr Drew who finished skilfully.

It was a great game to watch and pleasing to see the attitude of our year 8s who never let their heads drop. Thanks to all the staff who came out to support.