KIRKHAM GRAMMAR SCHOOL SPORTS REPORTS

30.09.24 - 06.09.24

HOCKEY

TITLE: U15 netball national cup vs Sedbergh School

DATE: Tuesday 1 October 2024

U15 (49-35)

The U15 squad got their cup run off to a flying start in a very competitive match against Sedbergh School. The first two quarters of the match saw end to end play with Ely and Verstraelen converting their chances. Sedbergh were just as successful under the post leaving the score at 20-20 at the half time whistle. Murro and Munro controlled the court demonstrating real athleticism both in and out of possession. Houlihan, Selby, Roberts and Whittle all had plenty to do in both attack and defence resulting in various outstanding plays all over the court. The final quarter saw KGS run away with the game, demonstrating real composure in their play. The final score 49-35 was extremely pleasing and sees KGS progress to the next round of the national cup! Congratulations to all players! 

TITLE: Kirkham Grammar vs RGS Newcastle Hockey

DATE: Saturday 5 October 2024

1^st XI (1-0)

The 1st XI took to the pitch against RGS Newcastle in what was set to be a top class match! 

Historically, the match between these two sides is always very close and ultra-competitive. 

Tomes lead from the front with Tomlinson and Margerison offering great attacking positions for the ball to be worked up the pitch. Procter went wide early on with a great snap shot at goal followed by Gut who had her shot saved by the keeper. Greenwood made some excellent passes opening up the pitch for both our right and left midfielders to attack the line. On the stroke of half time RGS Newcastle opened the score line with a well worked corner routine. The KGS side fought hard to put the ball away with Tomes, Tomlinson and Margerison all having further shots on goal. All credit to the RGS keeper who made some outstanding saves. 

U15 (3-0)

The U15s faced RGS in a friendly match that showcased both the challenges and potential of the team. The first half proved to be chaotic, with the girls struggling to communicate effectively and work cohesively as a unit. This lack of coordination put significant pressure on the defence, which battled against a well-organized RGS attack. Despite their efforts, the team went into halftime trailing 1-0. The second half saw an improvement in the girls’ performance, as they began to create more scoring opportunities. However, despite their increased efforts, they were unable to convert any chances into goals. RGS capitalized on a swift counterattack, which led to two additional goals, ultimately sealing a 3-0 victory. Hartley-Smith was named the teachers’ player of the match for her resilience and determination throughout the game, while RGS's standout player was Ely. Overall, the match highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in formation, communication and teamwork. 

U12B (1-1)

A very competitive game was had by all in this U12B thriller! All players worked extremely hard in all areas of the pitch. Some great runs from Mitchell and Tomlinson created real problems from the RGS defence whilst Wiper and Ellereay worked hard at the back to both tackle and distribute the ball forward. RGS Newcastle converted first but KGS continued to play their own game converting in the latter stages of the match. 

U13A (3-0)

h against RGS Newcastle began with a slightly chaotic first half, as the team struggled to maintain composure. There were moments where the girls rushed their decisions on the ball, needing to take more time to assess their options and execute more thoughtful passes. However, despite the disjointed start, the team had several positive spells of play that allowed them to control possession and build momentum. Their efforts were rewarded when they managed to break through the opposition’s defence, finishing the first half 1-0 with a goal from Godbold. After the halftime team talk, the girls came out with a renewed sense of focus. They knew what adjustments needed to be made, and they implemented these changes on the pitch. The team showed much more care and precision with their passing, taking the time to make smarter decisions. This improved play led to two additional goals from Murro and Hargreaves in the second half, sealing a strong and deserved victory.

2^nd XI (1-1)

The 2nd XI hit the pitch hard this Saturday demonstrating real skill in our attacking half! Sharpe impressed at CM with Trend and Tomlinson making some excellent runs forward. Sidebotham had an amazing game, creating havoc when on the ball. Whilst we had plenty of attacking play, we were not without our defending duties with Grice, Smith and Nicholls making some excellent tackles at the back to keep the RGS forwards out!  A very close game from start to finish resulting in a 1-1 draw. 

U14 (4-3)

On Saturday, the U14 Hockey team travelled to Ben Rhydding Hockey Club for an exciting fixture against RGS Newcastle. From the outset, the team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, forming triangles around the pitch and creating opportunities through both attacking channels. Despite their strong start, it was RGS Newcastle who struck first, scoring on a breakaway. However, KGS responded swiftly after the restart with a well-worked team goal, calmly slotted away by Mackenzie. The match remained tightly contested, but just before half-time, RGS scored another breakaway goal, sending KGS into the break trailing 2-1. The second half began with KGS pressing high and creating more chances. However, a momentary lapse in defence allowed RGS to extend their lead to 3-1. Refusing to back down, KGS fought back with an excellent build-up play, as a pinpoint ball from Jennings was chased down by Guthrie, who passed to Singleton for a well-deserved goal to make it 3-2. With five minutes left on the clock, the game was finely balanced. Guthrie, showing remarkable composure, picked up the ball on the 25-yard line, dribbled her way through the RGS defence, and slotted it home to level the score at 3-3. In the dying moments of the game, KGS completed their comeback in thrilling fashion. A long ball from Osborne was kept in play by Singleton, who made a fantastic run down the wing before crossing to Maclean-Bristol, who finished with confidence to secure a 4-3 victory. It was an outstanding team performance, full of determination and skill. Player of the match - Osborne.  

U13B (0-1)

The U13B team faced off against RGS Newcastle in a spirited contest, with the team putting in a strong and determined performance throughout. Early on, the KGS defence was solid, with Barrow making some excellent saves in goal, keeping RGS at bay in the opening stages. The defensive trio of Butcher, Walls, and Airton worked cohesively, clearing their lines and pushing the ball forward to the midfielders and attackers. Despite the strong defensive display, RGS Newcastle capitalized on a quick breakaway, taking the lead 1-0. Undeterred, KGS responded with determination, with Grice, McIlwam, Pickering, and Branthwaite driving forward and creating numerous chances. The team kept the pressure on the RGS goalkeeper, but despite their efforts, they could not find a way to equalise. Though the match ended in defeat, the team’s performance was positive and full of hard work. Player of the match - Maisie Walls 

RUGBY

TITLE: Kirkham Grammar 2^nd XV vs Sedbergh School 2^nd XV

DATE: Wednesday 2^nd October 2024

2^nd XV (10-28)

Kirkham 2nd XV went down 28-10 to Sedbergh School 2nd XV in a competitive encounter. Despite the result, Kirkham showed resilience with tries from Josh Sumner and Ollie Shackleton, both well-earned in phases of pressure. Strong individual performances came from Jamie Atherton, who led the defensive effort, Tom Carter's dynamic playmaking, Harry Marsh's relentless work rate, and Arthur Scrace's commanding presence in the back line. Sedbergh’s well-organized attack proved decisive in the end, but Kirkham's spirited showing kept the match competitive throughout.

 

TITLE: Kirkham Grammar vs Manchester Grammar School Rugby

DATE: Saturday 5 October 2024

U12 (80-5)

The Kirkham U12's delivered a commanding performance against The Manchester Grammar School, finishing the game with an 80-5 victory. From the start, Kirkham demonstrated their strength and cohesion, sticking to the game plan and working as a unit rather than relying on individual efforts. This teamwork paid off as they scored some superb team tries, showcasing their ability to link up across the field and create opportunities through excellent support play. Standout performances came from Tom R, Zach O, and Archie A, who all played key roles in both attack and defence. The teams tackling was relentless throughout the match, shutting down Manchester Grammar's attack and ensuring Kirkham maintained control of the game. It was especially impressive to see the boys applying their training, with every player contributing to the overall game plan and no one trying to go it alone. Kirkham's discipline, structure, and unselfish play were at the heart of their success, allowing them to dominate possession and territory. The victory was a testament to the team’s hard work and focus, and they can take great confidence from this performance moving forward. A big thank you to all the parents for their fantastic support on the sidelines, cheering the boys on and helping to create a positive atmosphere throughout the match. We look forward to hosting LRGS on Friday.

U13 (35-40)

This was an excellent game for the neutral where the lead changed hands on several occasions. Kirkham kept in touch throughout, despite being under the cosh for long periods as the Manchester forwards launched attack after attack. Kirkham tackled heroically in order to quell the prolonged attack and a 3-3 half time scoreline emphasised how well Kirkham had played. Manchester went ahead at the staybrt of the second half and stretched their lead to 5-3 soon after, however back came Kirkham with T Cox and N Swindlehurst finding gaps in the MGS defence. Late into the game the score was level at 7-7 before Manchester clinched the game with a late try. In all this was a much more encouraging performance from Kirkham, tries were from R Sumner (2), T Dunn, Cox (2), Burke, Taziker.

U14 (19-0)

Kirkhams U14’s came through a challenging week with flying colours, on Thursday they moved into the second round of the Lancashire cup with a 58-7 win against a plucky Birkdale High with several of the b team boys getting game time which was seamless and added some strength in depth. On Saturday Kirkham were again at home this time against a combative Manchester grammar School, the first half wasn’t a classic with the Manchester number 8 proving to be a real handful, but strong tackles from Elleray, Ince, Cookson, Robinson and O Walker-Basham prevented Manchester from getting any reward, with Kirkham struggling to get the ball wide, O Smith, Medhurst and Spencer-Hodge carried the ball hard to keep Kirkham going forward, two minutes before half time Kirkham had a rare visit to Manchester’s twenty two, Medhurst burst through to score on the left with Robinson converting. The second half started in the same vein as the first with lots of errors from both sides, but fitness soon started to show with Kirkham creating more opportunities, Robinson and Spencer-Hodge both getting over the line but unable to ground the ball, with Kirkham now looking the stronger side and after some good defensive work created a turn over, an outstanding pass from Medhurst created space for J Walker-Basham to dart over in the corner, the excellent Spencer-Hodge got Kirkham’s final score with a rampaging run from the ten metre line beating several defenders to score under the posts for Robinson to convert.

U15 (49-0)

Off the back of their game on Friday, a rotated KGS side put in a strong display against a spirited MGS side. Kirkham controlled much of the play with 7 tries and conversions. Tries from; Kelso, Smith (2), Gillett (3) and Wiltshire saw the blue and whites run out comprehensive winners. It was great to see the squad players get a good run out against a school with a strong rugby tradition and puts us in a good position ahead of the National Plate game vs Stonyhurst next week.

U17 (52-29)

In a thrilling display of skill and teamwork, Kirkham Grammar School triumphed over Manchester Grammar School with an impressive score of 52-29. The victory showcased Kirkham’s determination and depth, particularly with contributions from the under-16 squad. From the start, Kirkham set the pace of the match. The home team quickly demonstrated their attacking prowess, with star player Shackleton opening the scoring in the 5th minute. His early try energized the crowd and laid the foundation for a commanding performance. As the first half unfolded, Kirkham's attack was relentless. Cope followed with a dazzling solo effort, darting past defenders to extend the lead. Manchester managed to respond, but Kirkham’s defence held firm. Moments later, Craven added two tries to the tally, showcasing his speed and agility as he crossed the line with ease. The Kirkham forwards dominated the set pieces, and their impressive scrummaging set the stage for further scores. Cope returned to the scoresheet, making it a stellar day for him, before Halliday added to the score line with a well-timed try just before halftime. The first half concluded with Kirkham leading 38-14, with Wilsden converting all but one of the tries. Manchester attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, but Kirkham's momentum was too strong. Shaw found space and added another try to the tally, pushing the score to 45-14. Even as Manchester rallied to score, Kirkham maintained composure. Sumner rounded off the scoring for Kirkham with a final try, making it 52-29, and Wilsden’s remarkable six conversions highlighted the team's solid kicking game. A special mention goes to the under-16 squad, who played a crucial role in securing this victory, demonstrating their potential and skill. Their contributions were invaluable and bode well for the future of Kirkham rugby.

TITLE: Kirkham Grammar v Finborough School

DATE: Friday 4^th October 2024

1^ST XV (76-17)

Kirkham Grammar School’s 1st XV delivered a dominant performance in their 76-17 victory over Finborough College 1st XV. Krippner was the standout player, crossing the line for four tries, while Ferguson completed a hat-trick and Anderson added two more. Kelso and Ribchester each chipped in with a try apiece, rounding off a commanding attacking display. Wilson was precise with the boot, slotting six conversions, and Scrace added a further two to cap off a comprehensive win for Kirkham. Despite Finborough’s efforts, they were overwhelmed by Kirkham’s relentless pace and power throughout the match.

U15 (33-17)

The U15s made the trip to the picturesque Leicester Forrest RFC where they met Finborough School from East Anglia. The opposition were unbeaten and have been well coached so KGS knew this was going to be a tough affair, and it proved to be the case as Finborough's excellent ball movement inside their own 22m saw them go the distance to open the scoring after just 2 minutes (0-5).Credit to KGS, their response was swift as they went to their power game resulting in a flurry of penalties. The men from Suffolk committed one too many penalties which saw the referee go under the sticks for a penalty try (7-5). Kirkham continued to use a direct approach but the contrast between the 2 sides game plans made for a compelling first half. After a good long range kick from Gillett, Kirkham's defence was strong causing Finborough to make a mistake on their own line. From the resulting scrum, Wright scored with Lawson adding a good conversion (14-5). Finborough continued to press and after getting a flurry of penalties for themselves started to gain territory, but a combination of handling errors and good scramble defence just kept them at bay. To add injury to insult, Kirkham then would score in the dying embers of the half, with some good ball movement of their own resulting in a try for McKay to bring the half to a close at 19-5. Unlike the first half, Kirkham started the second one strongly and again used their power game to good effect with Gillett diving over from close range (26-5), however Finborough started to gain momentum of their own and scored another well worked try out wide to make it 24-12 and with 5 minutes left scored again to make it 26-17. After a strong comeback vs The Perse School earlier in the week, Finborough were clearly backing themselves to repeat the efforts against Kirkham, but fortunately for KGS, they managed to control the ball and territory and even school with the last play through Gillett again to give the score a slight flattering to the blue men. Final Score 33-17

CROSS COUNTRY

TITLE: U13 Cross Country at Casterton Prep

DATE: Thursday 3 October 2024

U13

The U13 cross country team had a great run up at Casterton Prep invitation run. The course was challenging and offered our runners a great opportunity to showcase their endurance. 

All runners; Godbold, Murro, Townley. Butler-Reid, Branthwaite, Kane-Long, and Butler-Reid. We finished strong overall in the team event with Godbold leading the way. Well done, everyone!