Fiercely contested match played in true Worthian spirit

The annual fixture against the School 1st XI once again proved to be an entertaining and fiercely contested match, played in excellent spirit.

Despite many of the OW team having left school several years ago, and with many players having only ever played Wednesday night hockey together - shoutout to Mr Faulkner - the alumni side made an impressive start. Through experience, determination and a few moments of quality finishing, the Old Worthians established a 5–3 lead and looked well placed to secure victory.

However, the School 1st XI showed great resilience and teamwork. Benefiting from having trained and played together recently on the freshly laid pitch, they gradually took control of the game as the Old Worthians began to tire. The younger side moved the ball with increasing confidence and, under the guidance of their coach, Mr Calum Giles, mounted an impressive comeback. Mr Giles’s contribution from the sidelines was certainly valuable to the School team, however he appeared to be offering the OWs rather less tactical instruction and more like unsolicited commentary.

The School 1st XI eventually ran out deserved 7–5 winners, demonstrating both fitness and excellent teamwork. Nevertheless, the match was thoroughly enjoyed by all involved and highlighted the enduring connection between the school and its alumni. A thank you to Charlie Beattie StC’23, Maddy Flint StC’23, Meggie Mcloughlin StA’23, Ben Pawson C’25, Camille Huber StM’26 and Zoe Mustian Atkinson StA’26 for joining me in the team. We will no doubt be inspired to return next year, along with some other OW hockey players with a little more match fitness!

David Bradley C’24