Senior School News

February 1^st 2010, the day of the U15 County Indoor Hockey Tournament and Bedford High were hoping to 'pinch' a few goals and show plenty of 'punch' in their quest to retain the county shield.

Cedars were our first opponents and the game began slowly with both teams wary of each other. It is the year of the Tiger in the Chinese Lunar Calendar and it was proving to be a game of 'cat and mouse' with neither side able to dictate. Anna Monk breathed life into the contest with a couple of great saves, spreadeagling herself at the opposition's feet to deny access to goal. Suddenly we stopped 'pussyfooting' around and captain Emily Myrtle converted our 4th short corner to go in at half time 1-0 up.

Fran Wood moved up front after the break and combined superbly with Jazzy Whitlock who fired in the second goal from close range. Emily led by hardworking example in the middle and was full of energy and movement. She was rewarded for her efforts with a goal after another excellent run and pass from Fran.

As history has so often dictated, the match against Dame Alice would determine the outcome of the tournament. Like tigers we were fierce and commanding, stalking our prey and giving 'kittens' to the Dame Alice defence! Anie Duncan was resolute and defiant at the back and adopted a 'they shall not pass' approach. Megan Craddock showed plenty of verve and endeavour and Anna continued to slide and glide across the boards to thwart any sniff of danger. As half time approached, Fran struck a deadly 20metre pass through the heart of the sky blue defence and found Emily in front of goal who coolly slotted the ball past the hapless goalkeeper.

We enjoyed the lion share of possession after the interval and were the more composed and disciplined team and the second goal from Megan was well deserved.

The final whistle blew - victory was sweet and Emily proudly collected the winners' shield.

Bedford High are 2010 indoor county champions!

Congratulations to all the girls. It was a true squad effort.

Team: Emily Myrtle (c), Anna Monk, Jazzy Whitlock, Hannah Short, Fran Wood, Megan Craddock, Anie Duncan, Nellie Banks.