U11A GIRLS HOCKEY TOURNAMENT @ LAXTON Wed 14th Sep 2016

On one of the hottest September days in a century Copthill U11 Girls Hockey Squad travelled to Oundle for the Laxton Hockey Tournament. Its early days in our hockey season, but to be the best you have to play the best, and such was the standard of the opposition schools, we knew we were going to be in for a challenge! Our pool put us up against Stamford, Kimbolton and Witham Hall, then the lottery of the knock-out stages. 

Feeling positive we set up with an attacking formation. Despite taking a few minutes to settle into their first game, we were fifty-fifty until two lapses in concentration allowed the Stamford forwards too much space, and the damage was done. 0 - 2. Never mind, lots of water, shade and tactics before our next game against a very strong Kimbolton team. This time we set up more defensively, and were much more focused, showing lots of skill and determination especially Jemima in goal. However, the run of play was definitely with Kimbolton so it was perhaps no surprise that one of their incisive attacks eventually produced a quality goal. However, we finished strong and emerged with much credit from a 0 - 1 scoreline. The final pool game against Witham Hall was always going to be closely fought. It was end to end, chances for both teams, determined defence, mobile midfield and creative attacking play. We had grown as a team, and although we ended the game at 0-0, this was definitely progress and a great game for us!

The reward for our efforts was a Plate semi-final against our hosts. We battled hard in the heat against a buoyant Laxton team, but unfortunately it was a game too far as again we started to lose our team shape, leaving the opposition with too much space. These quality teams don't need a second chance, so once again we found ourselves 0 - 2 down when the hooter blew. Laxton went on to win the Plate against Stoneygate, and in the Shield final we watched an exciting and high quality penalty shootout in which Foremarke Hall beat Bedford Girls.

It was a fantastic sunny afternoon of sport; we played the best teams, we competed hard, we learnt new skills, and we developed as a team. Well done to all the girls who took part, but special mention to Jemima, who was my Player of the Tournament for her brilliant display in goal. Many thanks to all the Copthill supporters who came to watch and cheer us on!

Nick