On Tuesday, the first XI Hockey took on Queens Taunton in the last 8 of the National Schools Cup. With a large crowd of spectators, the side started well. The game ebbed and flowed throughout the first half and Norwich were unlucky to concede with 15 minutes left in the half. Within 5 minutes, the side found themselves 2-0 after Taunton converted from the penalty spot. With 10 men on the pitch, Norwich burst in to action with Ben Watson firing home a shot from an almost impossible angle. Taunton were stunned and Norwich heaped on the pressure as half time arrived.
In the second half, Norwich continued to work incredibly hard; Taunton were by far the strongest team the side had faced this year. Taunton snuck a third mid-way through the half but Norwich did not give up & an inspired Ben Watson smashed a second in with 10 minutes to go. Needing a goal to draw, Norwich took off their goalkeeper and played with 11 outfield for the last 5 minutes. Taunton dropped deep and although Norwich kept the ball well, could not find a way past their defence. The game ended 3-2 to Taunton and was heart-breaking to all involved.
Given time, the squad will come to realise what a brilliant achievement it was to not only to go unbeaten in the East of England but to also make the last 8 in the country- the highest placing ever in this competition. I hope they will be very proud not just of the outcome, but also because of the way they achieved it. They made sacrifices, trained incredibly hard in the holidays, games time & other out of school sessions but most importantly came together as a team through thick & thin.
It is important to thank the supporters and staff who gave up their time to supervise- they did the school proud. Thank you to Mr Sorrell for his support throughout the year and of course Mr Rowe for his top umpiring & countless hours behind the scenes; making sure we were always as prepared as we could be for each encounter.
But the biggest thank you's & congratulations must go to the captain Jonty Gosling, his leadership team, and all the players involved in the season; it really has been an amazing adventure.
Mr J Cowan
Director of Sport
