Girls vs Boys Hockey Match
Match report by Graeme McIntryre
Traditions are wonderful things. Some are ancient, some are questionable (Brussels sprouts on a Christmas dinner plate) and some are joyous. Just like pigs in blankets the girls vs boys is a joyous tradition. With faces painted and seemingly ‘skorts’ painted on the boys were quietly confident. The girls in rugby kit equally confident of their superior skill, tactics and experience.
A lively start to the game with Carly on the right running rings around Leo, who would have thought that? Jess A added to this quality start with skill and pace and Connie and Charlotte put in some well-timed tackles. As expected, the girls were moving around nicely with good control. This is the traditional way of the match, and the boys didn’t let the side down by running around daft and trying to hit the ball as hard as they can. However, the one advantage the boys do have is pace, Finn and Felix combined, Felix squared a cross and Finn shot wide.
Amelia H got into the match with obvious talent and was starting to dictate with her control of the midfield. The defence of the boys was creaking, and the first short corner was won. Goalkeeper Harvey was pressed into action with five miracle saves, he was only aware of two as the other three bounced off him. Finally, the boys got possession, Toby demonstrated what a talented sportsman can do, and Felix once again used his pace and stick control to get through on goal only to have a shocking miss. The girls had a large squad and Esther in particular made a number of passes and tackles. Half time 0-0
Daniel started the second half with a few dynamic drives, could he lay claim to be the best Murray on the pitch? Possibly, but Sophia was having none of this with some handy stick work. Sammy then could have claimed the bragging rights in the Curran household as he was through on goal, but Danni did just enough to put him off. The Arts sisters added to the family rivalry of the match, with Libby Katie, Charlotte, Harper and Anya adding their expertise. The boys then botched two short corners followed by good play from Amelia and Laura. Stan, Jasper and Sam made some decent if not awkward contributions and Josh and Tommy had an increasing influence. Will had a few golf swings and Sophie S made sure of a good save. Full time 0-0
Kirtika won the ball and found space for Sophie F only for Harvey to close the space down, Carly could have finished a brilliant performance but shot wide. Unusually, the girls then botched two short corners. End of extra time 0-0
The girls won the toss and decided on ‘shuffles’ rather than penalty flicks, hoping superior skill would win the day. It looked a wise choice as Carly slotted the first goal home, Harvey decided musical statues was the way to go. Next up Toby nervelessly put his away Daniel and Felix did the same. But what about the girls you might ask? Well, Harvey changed tactics and opted for the rush out and push wide, this was quite the sight as the giant keeper kept light on his feet to make save after save. 3-1 to the boys, Harvey the star of the show, fitting really as he had got injured in the warm-up and missed the Lancashire Cup Final.
Tradition was broken as the boys normally lose, tradition maintained as they celebrated with a massive pile on then gracious thanks to opponents and umpires alike then doubtless remind the losing team of the score until the academic year ends. Traditions are wonderful things.