U11 A & U11 B Hockey v SJS on Wednesday 3rd February 2016

Copthill U11A Boys Hockey v Stamford

Copthill travelled to Stamford knowing that they would be tested by a school always strong in hockey. The squad had been changed in view of this; promoting William Taylor to A Team goalie, enabling Freddie Gwinnett to use his speed around the out field, and Jude Warren returning to defensive duties. 

Copthill didn't travel well! The first half saw us giving the ball away too easily. Stamford's skill and speed did the rest; 5 goals conceded and only a few attacking sorties into the Stamford D to boost morale.The half time team talk couldn't come soon enough..... The boys came out after the break a different team. We were competing for the ball, tackling, passing and moving. Sure enough the goals starting to go in; Freddie and Felix Clayton getting on the score sheet, and Max Halden coming close on a number of occasions. Stamford were always dangerous, so without numerous outstanding saves from William Taylor the second half may have gone the same way as the first. With great credit the boys battled on to win the second half, but go down 3-6 overall at the final whistle. Thanks to the captain; Gabriel Rudman, and special mention to Freddie Gwinnett for his tireless commitment, but Man of the Match for his fantastic display in goal: William Taylor.  Well done!

Mr N Teesdale

Copthill U11 B Boys Hockey v SJS

The B team produced an excellent display of sheer grit, effort and determination against a well organised and skill-full Stamford JS side.  We always know that when we play SJS they are going to be tough matches as they train and play hockey for the whole term, probably up to 4 times a week.  Whereas the Copthill boys play once or twice a week!

It was a fantastic match from start to finish with Copthill 3-0 down with 5 minutes to play in the first half, when Max K and Charlie P got 2 goals back to make the score 3-2 at half time. There was nothing much to say at half time as all the boys were really up for this match and they knew they needed to pass quicker and make better movements, they were most certainly not lacking in enthusiasm and determination!

The second half saw Copthill draw level at 3-3 with another goal from Max K but then Stamford JS replied with a couple of quick well-taken goals.  Another goal was scored by Stamford JS before Will LV scored a late goal.  The final score was 6-4 to Stamford JS, however Copthill should be extremely proud of their efforts and it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.  Player of the match was both Will LV & Charlie P.

Mr T Smith

Copthill U11 Hockey B Team