It was the turn of the U18s this week to represent Friary in the Staffordshire Schools Hockey Championships, stepping up against some of the strongest hockey schools in the region. Everyone knew the competition would be fierce, and whilst topping the group was always going to be a stretch, there was a genuine hope of securing a runners‑up finish. Unfortunately, Wolverhampton Grammar had other ideas, opening the tournament with a 2–0 win that immediately shifted the tone of the day.
Despite the result, Friary produced some lovely passages of play in midfield. Jack O’Neill and Josh Hunt linked up well, moving the ball confidently through the centre of the pitch. However, Hunt struggled to find the forward line of Tommy Baines, Luke Aldridge and Josh Douglas‑Boisson often enough to apply sustained pressure on the opposition defence.
One standout in the opening game was Jack Stainforth, whose grit, determination, and several exceptional clearances off the back line kept Friary in contention far longer than the scoreline suggests. The boys were understandably disappointed, especially having beaten Wolverhampton earlier in the season, but they regrouped quickly and went into the next fixtures with renewed focus.
A tactical shift saw Friary move to two up front and a back four, strengthening the defensive structure. The adjustment paid off immediately. Against Queen Mary’s Grammar, the team held firm, conceding a single goal: a flick awarded for a foot on the line, thanks to some excellent work from goalkeeper Noah Bowers who managed to get his pads onto it, but slid into the goal.
On the wings, Sam McAskie and Sam Willis impressed with their work rate and willingness to drive into the D at pace, constantly making themselves available as outlets. Charlie Luke and Fraser Neenan also deserve credit for their versatility, slotting into multiple positions throughout the tournament to cover tired legs and minor injuries while keeping the team shape intact.
A special mention goes to Osama Alashi, who stepped in at the last minute and did a superb job anchoring the midfield, as well as to Anand Sihota, who held the right‑back position.
When the group standings were finalised, Friary finished 3rd out of 7 teams, a fantastic achievement for a squad that trains just once a week and regularly faces some of the top private schools in the region. Their teamwork, adaptability, and determination shone through across the day.
The overall Player of the Tournament was awarded to Francis Shaw, whose communication with the defensive unit and positive influence during team talks set the tone for the group’s resilience and togetherness.
A strong effort all round, and plenty to be proud of. Attention now turns to the U14s, who have qualified for the Midlands Finals and will compete in Nottingham next month. The whole school community will be cheering them on.
