U11 Hockey tournament at S. Anselm’s, 2:00pm

Venue: AWAY – DE451DP

Coach: Mrs Felton, Miss Ward

Lunch Time: Packed lunch

Start Time: 2.00pm

Return/Finish Time: 6.30pm

Aurora (Captain)

Jasmine

Annabel

Beth

Penny

Helena

Ruby

Phoebe

Notes: Change 11.00am. Please pack skins, full tracksuit, hats, and gloves. We will be provided with refreshments during the afternoon but feel free to bring extra snacks. Packed teas also provided for journey home. Water bottles - Jasmine, First Aid - Aurora, Warm up balls - Annabel

St Hugh's were delighted to receive bronze medals at St Anselm's Hockey Tournament on Wednesday. Following a long journey to Bakewell the girls were full of excitement and ready to face a number of teams from across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. 

The tournament saw nine teams split into two groups for an initial round robin format. We were in a group made up of 5 schools so the girls were kept busy with four 8 minute games. 

Our opening match was against Hill House who we previously drew with at the recent IAPS qualifier. It was a similar game and with just eight minutes to score St Hugh's worked incredibly hard but unfortunately could not convert. We did however have shots on target and our girls were very composed at the back when St Anselm's were in possession. Aurora made a crucial save and the game ended 0-0. 

We then went on to play Denstone Prep and it was clear from the outset that St Hugh's were hungry for goals! We moved the ball extremely well and  allowed the ball to do the work. There were some super balls out from our backs and we used both the width and depth of the pitch well. As a result of this great team work, we scored 4 goals (Penny, Ruby x2 and Annabel). 

Our third game was against St Anselm's B team and St Hugh's once again played some super hockey. We worked hard to create attacking opportunities and put the opposition under a lot of pressure in their defensive half. Penny, Beth and Annabel found the backboard and the game finished 3-0 to St Hugh's. 

The final group match was against Terra Nova who we had watched during our rest games. They were a stronger side with some skilful individuals. The entire St Hugh's team worked well defensively and there were a number of turnovers throughout the match. We were impressive on the counter attack very eager in our attacking D. A goal came eventually from Helena F and it was super to see her perform so well in a new position on the wing. The final result was 1-0. 

Following the group stages we were delighted to finish as winners of our group which meant we faced the runners up in the next match. This was against St Anselm's A side and it was a very week contested match. We did rotate our two Year 6 outfielders and play others out of position due to the fact that it was an U10 tournament. The girls appreciated this and were pleased to gain experience in new positions. We lost this game 1-0 but played so well! 

Our final match saw us meet Hill House again in the 3rd/4th play off.  St Hugh’s reverted to our starting line up and once again put on a great performance. We did create chances but couldn’t get passed the keeper to convert.  With a scoreless draw the results needed to be decided by penalty shuffles which the girls were somewhat excited about!  Annabel, Beth and Penny were chosen to take these with Aurora playing a crucial role in goal. The team were elated when St Hugh’s took the lead during sudden death. A very exciting few minutes and great experience for the players!