Triple Victory in National Cup Propels Hockey Teams Forward

We celebrated a remarkable achievement as the Under 18, Under 16, and Under 14 girls’ Hockey teams triumphed over King’s School, securing their places in the next rounds of their National Cup competitions. This triple victory highlights the depth of talent within RGS Hockey and players’ determination across all age groups.

Under 18s Triumph in a High-Stakes Match

 In a spirited rematch against King’s School, the RGS Under 18s took to the field with a place in the fourth round of the England Hockey National Cup at stake. Having narrowly missed out on a win three weeks prior, the team was eager to demonstrate their ability. From the outset, RGS dominated possession, with early attacks that saw the King’s School goalkeeper put to the test.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half, courtesy of Amelia Bentley-Hughes, whose powerful penalty corner strike opened the scoring. Although King’s School managed to equalise just before halftime, RGS’s determination only intensified. Martina Grace and Mya Walford led the charge in the second half, keeping the opposition on the back foot. Fynn Butler’s expertly executed penalty corner quickly restored RGS’s lead, and she followed with another superb drag flick to seal the match 3-1.

Head of Hockey, Sally Walton OLY praised the team, noting, “To see the girls bounce back from their only loss this season was really impressive. Their mental maturity in managing the game under pressure was a testament to the hard work they have put in all season. They are setting a high standard and leaving a real legacy for future teams.” 

Under 16s Battle Through to the Fourth Round

Just before Half term, the RGS Under 16 team also took on King’s School in the third round of the England Hockey Cup, playing with impressive control and confidence at home. The first half saw RGS dominate possession, dictating play with fluid ball movement, but despite their efforts, the score remained 0-0 at halftime. The team returned to the pitch after a brief regrouping and motivational halftime talk. They quickly took the lead with an early second half goal, and with just ten minutes left, a decisive goal sealed their 2-0 victory, securing their progression to the fourth round.

Under 14s Dominate to Secure Their Own 3-1 Victory

The Under 14 Hockey team also faced King’s School and, after an early series of chances and a scoreless first half, the tension was palpable. King’s School took advantage of a rare opportunity and opened the scoring with a swift reverse-stick shot. But RGS quickly regained control, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and strategic play.

Naomi Bayo-Oshunkoya was a standout player for RGS, netting an equaliser with a precise short corner shot before powering in another goal from the top of the circle. Lexi Collins then completed the performance with a clinical finish, deflecting a cross to extend the lead to 3-1. With the defence holding strong, RGS secured the win and advanced to the third round with confidence.

The resilience and camaraderie demonstrated by all three teams has been exceptional, and the players are poised to continue their success in the National Cup. We wish all teams the best as they advance to the next stages of the National Cup competitions.

Miss Sally Walton OLY – Head of Hockey