32 schools competed in the ISA event, and with schools travelling from as far afield as York and Warwick, the standard was expected to be high. Schools were placed into 8 groups of 4 teams, with the winner of each group progressing through to the main playoffs. Matches were short, leaving little time to score in 10 minutes.
A nervous first match ended in a 1 – 0 defeat. This was followed by a close-fought second match which saw Leweston create several chances and then unfortunately, concede a goal against the run of play in the final minute to lose 1 – 0. The final group match was a similar encounter, and Leweston lost 2 – 0. Despite the narrow defeats, the girls remained in high spirits and then progressed to a playoff round for teams who placed fourth in their pool. Leweston enjoyed success at this stage, winning their first match 1 – 0, drawing their second 0 – 0, and claiming a comprehensive 3 – 0 victory in their final match.
The girls enjoyed the experience of playing in a national tournament and as always, came away as better hockey players, learning a great deal about the nature of competing at a high level. Many thanks go to our parents for their support and to Ms. Sheridan Nagle and Dr. Broze for joining us in London.
Malcolm Miller, Hockey Coach