On Tuesday evening, the U13 water polo team travelled the short distance to Alleyn’s and competed in the first round of the English Schools National Water Polo championship.
First was a difficult match against the home team. Despite opening the scoring, The Prep fell behind after three quick counter attacks which cut through the defence. In the second half the team rallied and kept the deficit to 3 losing the match 7-4. The team had an honest talk about their performance after the match and despite being disappointed in conceding the three first half goals, they were determined to improve in their remaining matches.
After a quick break, the team jumped into the water, nervous knowing another defeat would cost them their place in the next round. They were up against a strong Eltham College. The first 5 minutes were very tentative, with either side capable of taking the lead. Fortunately, the Prep found the net first and this opened the floodgates storming to a 7-0 victory.
This confidence carried through to their final match against Colfe’s where they demonstrated their full potential as a team. They worked hard in defence and put together good passing combinations to leave the pool with another clean sheet and 9 goals scored.
The team have progressed through to the next round with a lot to think about. Their 16 goals in the final two matches with no goals conceded should be praised. Nevertheless, like many sports, the way you start a match can often determine how you finish and the boys will be keen to not find themselves in a position similar to their first match!
