Prep School

Hockey

Year 5 took to the pitch for their first hockey fixtures, and it was wonderful to see how much they’ve learned in practice. They warmed up brilliantly, showing they already understand the different roles on the field. Our main goals were to use the full width of the pitch and get into a strong defensive position.

The girls were absolutely fantastic, showing real comfort with the ball. They were so confident in their tackling, and they passed, received, and dribbled with ease. It was a joy to watch them play, and they even scored three wonderful goals between them!

Rugby

U10

The team delivered an excellent first performance, full of energy, skill and real togetherness. From the start there was brilliant passing along the line, giving the game flow and confidence. Joey led the attack with a series of bursting runs that tore through the defence, creating chances that Jonah finished superbly, crossing for two well-taken tries. In defence, Teddy produced a masterclass in tackling, shutting down opposition attacks with determination and setting the standard for effort. Edie and Arthur combined well in midfield, linking up smartly to drive play forward and keep momentum high, while Albie impressed with intelligent decision-making, spotting space and guiding the team with composure. Jio, Ian, Camille and Akash all gave excellent supportive play, ensuring quick ball was recycled, keeping the pressure on the opposition, and showing great awareness to back up teammates in both attack and defence. Every player contributed, whether carrying the ball, defending with commitment, or encouraging teammates, and the sense of togetherness across the pitch was outstanding. With Joey’s runs, Jonah’s tries, Teddy’s tackling, Edie and Arthur’s link-up play, Albie’s clever approach, and the supportive play of Jio, Ian, Camille and Akash, the game was packed with highlights, but most importantly, it showed what can be achieved by working as a unit. Overall, this was a very impressive first performance from all involved and an excellent platform to build on for the season ahead.

U11

A super first outing for the U11 A squad.  They put into practice all the things they’d been working on in the first few training sessions of the season. With ‘green’ attack and plenty of ‘best mates’ they played some great rugby and scored some super tries, all of which were team efforts, rather than relying on a few players. Defence is the next work on! A real top effort from the U11B team. When you take into account that some of these players hadn’t touched a rugby ball before two weeks ago, it was a true testament to their hard work and attitude that they managed to score two fantastic tries. Kareem’s speed, Josh’s hard running, and Xander’s last gasp dives to stop the opposition were my personal highlights.

Senior School

Rugby 

U14/U15 Rugby vs Shebbear College

In testing conditions of heavy rain and strong winds, Queen’s U14/U15 side faced Shebbear College in a hard-fought contest. From the kick-off, Queen’s were pinned deep inside their own 22 for the opening ten minutes, but their defence stood firm under considerable pressure.

Both teams had experienced players dictating the tempo, and it was Shebbear who struck first, crossing the line and adding a well-taken conversion. Queen’s struggled to gain scrum dominance, and Shebbear capitalised to extend their lead to two unanswered tries.

Queen’s responded through Josiah, who showed great timing and determination to dive over from a tight angle. However, Shebbear continued to apply pressure and went into the break with a commanding 22–5 lead.

The second half saw a much-improved performance from Queen’s. With better use of pods and greater ball security, they began to build momentum. Harry and Henry led the defensive effort with strong tackles and aggression, creating the platform for Mo to power through under the posts. Moments later, Kirk added an outstanding solo try straight from the restart, bringing Queen’s right back into the contest.

Justin, Felix, and Oli combined brilliantly in attack to put Kirk over for his second try, setting up an exciting finish. Despite their late rally, Queen’s ran out of time and just fell short on the scoreboard.

Although the result went to Shebbear, Queen’s can take great pride in their resilience and second-half display, which showcased teamwork, determination, and a growing confidence in their play.

Hockey 

1st XI 

Queens secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Leweston in an exciting encounter. The match started positively for Queens, who took an early lead with a well-worked goal, showing strong intent from the outset. Leweston responded well, however, and managed to level the score at 1-1, setting up a tense second half.

With both teams pushing for a winner, it was Queens who found the breakthrough in the final 10 minutes, converting a decisive chance to reclaim the lead. The team held firm in the closing stages to seal the win, capping off a determined and disciplined performance.

U14A 

What an exceptional first full pitch match for the U14A’s this weekend! There was some apprehension before pushback, but, as reassured, the team thrived and adapted. Our opponents were Leweston, who delivered a fair, well-matched challenge. It would be great to play them again to compare the performance later in the season.

In the first quarter, Queen’s flocked to the ball and stayed mainly in the middle channel. This was quickly identified by the team and then corrected as they started using the whole width of the pitch. Juno made strong crosses into the shooting area from the back line. Mabel broke through the defence well. Willow fought hard in defence to clear the ball after short corners.

Leweston secured the first goal and Queen’s equalised in the second half. The possession was dominated by Queen’s in the final 5 minutes and, had the game had been 1 minute longer, I think it would have been ours. Nevertheless, a fine result and fantastic performance from this team. Bring on a great season! Definitely a team to watch if you get the chance.

U13B 

All the girls worked hard in what was a very even match. Annabelle had a steady head in defence, making some crucial tackles on a number of occasions, whilst Niamh, Scarlett and Leila all displayed some tenacious play in attack and were unlucky not to score on a number of occasions. Elodie and Imogen showed versatility playing as both wings and defenders. Well done to Isabelle in goal, who in the second half coped really well, saving a number of shots. Coaches player: Leila who did not stop running. Team focus: Holding position, carrying the ball at free hits, 16 yard hit outside and sidelines first before playing it, this will draw in defenders and create space.