The Challenger Cup 1st XI football match was the highlight of this week’s Sports Report as our senior boys put in a dominant display against Wetherby Senior School! The other sports fixture of the week comes from the netball court where our 1st VII girls were in Portsmouth for their final game of the season.
Football – 1st XI Challenger Cup vs Wetherby Senior School
On Wednesday 2 April, the boys’ 1st XI football team had their showcase Challenger Cup football match against Wetherby Senior School on New Field. It was the team’s final game of the season and for some of our senior boys, their final football match in the Shiplake kit. The marquee football event was open for all Year 11-13 pupils to spectate and support the boys, while parents were also invited to watch. Given the occasion, we welcomed Your Instant Replay to the College who provide commentary and a highlights package.
On the day, we were blessed with glorious sunshine and in the match itself, our boys did not disappoint as they put in a dominant display to win 6-1. Goals came from B Stokes, H Kerrison (2), A Hooker, A Siveter, and an own goal and despite a possible Wetherby comeback at 3-1, the boys kept their composure to score a further three goals. In defence, A Mullens was calm and composed on the ball while C Nash-Steer ran the midfield – his many crosses into the box were delivered with pin-point accuracy which led to the first two goals. F McCalley and A Hooker were full of running on the wings and up front, L Spence was rewarded for his efforts with a goal deep into the second half.
Overall, it was a performance befitting of the occasion and one that will live long in the memories of these boys. Thank you to both sets of teams for playing the match in good spirits and to the supporters on the touchline for cheering them on.
Netball – 1st VII vs Portsmouth Grammar School
For the final match of the season, we travelled two hours to Portsmouth, putting in a fantastic performance in a narrow loss. Despite the result, it was a hard-fought game with brilliant teamwork and determination from everyone on court. Spirits remained high as we celebrated the season with a trip to the beach and a team meal. Special recognition goes to M Craig as Players' Player & Coaches' Player, and to S Bhambra and M Mundy who earned Players of the Match for their outstanding performances. A great end to a fantastic season!
Then on Thursday, in a hilarious yet fiercely competitive match, we dominated the College Boys with a convincing 30–10 win. From the first whistle, the girls were clearly the stronger side, showing off slick passes, sharp shooting, and solid teamwork. The boys gave it their all but couldn’t quite keep up. The game was full of energy and plenty of laughs but in the end, it was clear—the 1st VII girls were simply better. Players of the Match went to A O’Shea and H Kerrison, and Coaches' Players to S Bhambra and H Kerrison.
Report: M Mundy, 1st VII Captain
Flickr album: Boys' 1st XI Challenger Cup 2025 |
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