7 December 2021
Hockey
KGS 1st X1 v Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL)
The 1st Xl started the last game of the term against GSAL with real pace putting pressure on the opposition from the whistle. The girls passed the ball well, created chances and controlled the game. GSAL counter attacked against the run of play, Kirkham were outnumbered at the back and conceded a goal to go 1-0 down. After withstanding 10 minutes of pressure, the Kirkham girls stepped up a gear and equalised with a goal from Dani Merrick to make it 1-1 at half time. Kirkham totally dominated the second half, demonstrating skill, speed and complete teamwork. Two goals from Amy Merrick gave Kirkham a terrific 3-1 win against a strong Leeds side.
2nd X1
The 2nd XI played GSAL away at the weekend. The KGS girls attempted to work together as a team, however tired legs and loss of possession put GSAL 2-0 up. In the second half, the girls worked harder and put up a fight, passing the ball out wide and down the line which put more pressure on GSAL. Kirkham started to move up the pitch and had a couple of opportunities to score but due to a slow start were unable to turn the score around. The final score was 2-0 to GSAL.
U15s (pictured above)
The U15s started slowly and had to defend for much of the first half. Leeds went 1-0 up early in the first half and then continued to create chance after chance. In the second half the Kirkham girls showed real strength and determination in defence and, as the game moved on, the girls started to get some control back placing pressure on the Leeds defence. A solid goal from Eva Berry put us back in the game. Leeds pressed again to go 2-1 up and once again Kirkham counter attacked in numbers. Keira Tomes was outstanding throughout. Lilly Jones scored a great goal from a short corner strike and this highly competitive game finished 2-2.
U13s
The U13A team were well beaten by a very quick GSAL side. Despite playing some good hockey in attacking areas, KGS struggled to break down a strong GSAL defence. Some slick attacking play by GSAL left KGS 3-0 down at half time and needing to step up their effort levels and close down in the second half. Despite improving significantly in the second half, KGS conceded a further 3 goals as GSAL moved the ball quickly in wide areas. Emily Greenwood scored a consolation goal direct from a short corner.
U13B team also fell to defeat as they lost 4-2 to GSAL. 3-0 down at half time, the KGS girls rallied well in the second half thanks to goals from Niamh Smith and Libby Sidebotham. As KGS pushed for an equaliser, GSAL scored a 4th goal on the break.
U12s (pictured below)
The U12A team continued their impressive form with a 3-2 comeback win. Hollie Bailey scored early in the first half to put KGS 1-0 up. However, GSAL hit back with 2 quick goals as the KGS girls left players unmarked in the D. In the second half, KGS kept much stronger defensive shape which created a platform for the skilful attacking players. Ophelia Loggenberg posed a constant threat with her skilful dribbling and, after KGS equalised, she scored what proved to be the winning goal. The U12B team were also victorious as they ran out 3-0 winners in an entertaining game. The horrendous weather meant plenty of rotation was required up front and this freshness kept KGS well on top for the majority of the game.
