PUBLISHED 09 December 2024
AKS U13 progress into last 8 of National Plate Competition
In a thrilling encounter full of excitement and determination, the AKS U13 team faced off against Sedbergh School in the 3rd round of the National Schools Plate Competition. The game kept everyone on the edge of their seats with AKS eventually taking the spoils after a nail-biting penalty shoot out!
The game was fast-paced and end-to-end, showcasing exceptional hockey from both sides. Despite going 1-0 down early on, the team displayed incredible resilience, refusing to let their spirits drop and their determination paid off as they leveled the score to 1-1 with an excellent goal from Alyssa W.
Sedbergh responded strongly, taking a 2-1 lead, but the team again struck back with a spectacular goal from a short corner from Sophia T to make it 2-2. Sedbergh had their chances to take the lead again but great goalkeeping from Evie C kept the ball out of the net and despite some great attacking moves the Sedbergh keeper also rose to the challenge and thwarted our best efforts. With neither team being able to find the net the match finished with the scores level at 2 – 2 and the tie ultimately had to be settled by a penalty shoot out. AKS showed nerves of steel to claim victory with superbly taken penalties and now progress into the last 8 of this National Competition.
This was a game defined by teamwork, grit, and relentless effort. Both teams deserve credit for their outstanding performances, but it was AKS’s cohesion and determination that earned them the win. A fantastic showcase of youth hockey at its best!
The 1st XI were also in Cup action playing in the 4th round of the U19 National Cup. AKS faced a strong GSAL team, ultimately losing 4-1. GSAL started powerfully attacking at pace from the first whistle and they put us on the back foot scoring two quick goals within the first seven minutes, the second a superb reverse stick shot that flew past keeper Danni H. Despite the early setbacks, AKS began to find their footing, creating chances and gaining confidence as the half progressed and Charlotte L came close to scoring when her powerful shot flew just wide of the goal. GSAL however continued to showcase their speed and attacking prowess moving the ball well and putting us under pressure and they scored twice more with well worked passages of play. Just before halftime, however, AKS managed to score, when Amelia H converted from a well-worked penalty corner providing a boost to their morale going in to the break. The second half featured a more balanced contest, with AKS effectively tightening their defense and nullifying GSAL's attacks, as well as passing the ball more effectively to create chances of our own but we could not find the net. Both teams fought hard, but GSAL's early lead proved too much to overcome.
While disappointed with the result, AKS can take pride in their tenacity and resilience. Congratulations to GSAL on their victory, and best of luck in the next round!