Our Friary’s U16 hockey boys took on some of the top hockey schools at the championships. After watching the U14s compete earlier in the week, the team knew this was going to be a much tougher challenge. However, they approached the tournament with a positive mindset, determined to put in strong performances, win some games, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.
The opening match proved to be a harsh introduction to the level of competition, as Friary faced the strongest team at the championships. Despite their best efforts, they were unable to match their opponents’ intensity and suffered an early defeat. However, the loss did not dampen their spirits, and they went into their second game with renewed determination.
The second match saw Friary step up their game, fighting hard for every ball. Josh Hunt came close to scoring on multiple occasions, testing the opposition goalkeeper with some skilful reverse stick shots, but was unfortunately denied each time. Despite their attacking intent and defensive resilience, Friary ultimately fell to a 2-0 defeat.
As the tournament progressed into its final stages, team captain Sam Willis took charge, making key changes to the team’s formation and tactical approach. These adjustments paid off as Friary secured a hard-fought draw against Birchfield, a result that gave the team a much-needed confidence boost heading into their final fixture.
Determined to end the competition on a high, Friary delivered a brilliant performance in their last match, securing a crucial victory. This win propelled them into their first-ever penalty shuffles competition against a more experienced opposition, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion to their campaign.
The shootout started nervously, with Friary unable to convert their first two shuffles, both well saved by the opposition keeper. However, their opponents also struggled under the pressure, failing to capitalise on their chances. With the tension mounting, it fell to Anand Sihota to keep Friary’s hopes alive. He stepped up confidently and made no mistake, slotting the ball home to take the contest to sudden death. The Friary players erupted in celebration, knowing they were still in with a chance.
As the final moments of the shuffles unfolded, the pressure became almost unbearable. The team and coach could barely watch as the opposition’s next player took their turn. On the whistle, they attacked Friary’s goalkeeper, who reacted superbly – flying off his line with an exceptional sliding tackle to deny the attempt and keep Friary’s hopes alive.
With everything riding on the final shuffle, Josh Hunt stepped up once again. After missing his first attempt, he was visibly nervous, but he did not let the moment get the better of him. With ice-cool composure, he sent the keeper diving left before calmly firing the ball home to the right, sealing a historic third-place finish for Friary in the championships.
Kim Fallows, Head Coach, said: “An outstanding effort from the entire squad, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and nerves of steel. A huge congratulations to Team Friary – this was a performance to be proud of!”
