First XI Football: Purple Power

Harrodian’s youthful Under 18s First Team Girls Football side put in a hugely determined and mature performance in last week's first round Surrey Cup Tie, defeating holders Kingston Grammar School to progress to the second round.

Harrodian made a nervous start conceding an early goal and struggling to make headway against a strong and confident KGS side but a crucial equaliser from Daphne just before the break (see below) proved to be the turning point.

Buoyed by the goal, Harrodian began the second half confidently. They took the game to Kingston and, with Julia a fast and persistent threat on the right wing and Chloe elusive and hard to stop on the left, the chances were soon coming thick and fast. Harrodian's twin strike-force of Sasha and Daphne made the most of this pressure scoring twice and suddenly Harrodian were two goals up.

Meanwhile, the defence was thwarting all Kingston's attempts to hit back. A tough-tackling back four of Maia, Fiona, Jessie and Rosie gave the Kingston forwards no time on the ball in attack and  goalkeeper Artemis proved an athletic and unbeatable last line of defence, as Harrodian ran out comfortable 3-1 winners. The win takes Harrodian into the second round where they face an away tie in Twickenham against Turing House School.

The result was all the more encouraging bearing in mind that this youthful team draws its players from age groups all the way from Year 9  to the Sixth Form (Years 12 and 13). 'It's sometimes difficult  to compete with older players who are faster and bigger,' said Rosie, already a commanding centre back at 13. 'But I'm really enjoying the chance to play in the team and to build bonds with girls from different age groups.'

Headmaster Mr Hooke, who watched the game, was hugely impressed with the team spirit on show. ‘It's exciting to see a team made up of players from age groups across the Senior School coming together to compete so successfully.’ he says. ‘It was an outstanding team effort.'