The Abbey U14, U16 and U18A netball teams have been entered into the National Netball Sisters’n’Sport Plate competition this year and we’re delighted to report that all three squads are through to the next rounds. 

U14A vs Ranelagh School (H) – Tuesday 20 September

The U14 squad hosted Ranelagh at The University of Reading. Starting at 3.15pm, the team had a good warm up and were focused, but excited, for their first match. During the first 12 minute quarter, the team were developing their connections through the court, finishing with a narrow 7-4 lead. 

In the second quarter, our shooting accuracy progressed and the defenders tightened up, and ultimately pulled out to a strong 18-6 lead. The team showed great versatility in the final half, as a number of positional changes were made to test combinations, resulting in a huge 31-11 win. 

The whole squad did a fantastic job, with particular congratulations to Ini and Becca, who achieved the opponent’s player of the match accolades. This was valuable preparation for the GSA tournament this weekend. 

U16A vs Farmor’s School (A) – Wednesday 21 September

The U16A team travelled to Fairford, Gloucestershire for a challenging first round match against Farmor’s. Having not had a great deal of preparation time, the squad were nervous but excited to take to court. 

Following a high-intensity first quarter, The Abbey were down 7-8. The team needed to settle through the mid-court and slow play down in order to convert their chances, as there was plenty of turnover ball up for grabs for both sides. The quarter time talk worked, as the team pulled away to a mighty 19-12 lead, with some excellent holds performed by Alexia at GS. 

This lead gave the team further confidence to challenge their opponents and showed The Abbey’s strength in depth, as a number of changes and positional switches could be made. 

The Abbey pulled even further away by the end of the game, resulting in a 39-21 win and a deserved player of the match award for Dani. 

U18 match

Uxbridge College withdrew from the U18 match, giving The Abbey the walkover into the next round. We look forward to seeing who they have in the next round shortly!

The U12 and U13 teams will shortly be commencing their National matches in the School Sport Magazine. The U12 team play Queen Anne’s at home at The University of Reading sports hall on Tuesday 4 October and the U13s will travel to Farnborough School before half term. 

Miss Appleby and Mrs Sikorski