Author: Steve Wilks

Essex Open U13 Blues 25 – 6 Essex Open U12 Maroons

Under 14 Essex Met League Match Report

The Essex Open U13 Blues took to the court for their first Essex League fixture of the season against our own U12 Maroons squad, securing a 25–6 victory.

With five new players joining the team and replacing girls from last season’s squad, this is a newly formed group that will need time to develop its understanding and build fluidity in its play.
Despite this, there were plenty of positive signs.

The Blues dominated their opposition in terms of physicality and speed of play, controlling the game comfortably for large periods.

There was some excellent link-up play between Samantha and Savannah in the shooting circle, while our defenders held firm and demonstrated great determination throughout.

Although there is still plenty to work on, the potential and strength within this squad are clear to see. With time, patience and continued hard work, the Blues have all the ingredients to gel, develop into a more efficient and fluid team, and enjoy a very successful season.

OPOM: Elin
CPOM: Savannah

Today marked the first game of the season for our U12 Maroons, who are playing two years up in the U14 MET League. We knew it was going to be a tough battle, especially as we faced our fellow Essex Open team, the U13 Blues — and what a talented team they are!

The first quarter was a tough watch, with the girls going 9–2 down. But rather than letting their heads drop, they started to settle, their defence grew stronger and they began moving the ball much better. They just couldn’t quite find a way through the Blues’ strong defence into the D, going into half-time 16–2 down.

The girls didn’t drop their heads once. They stayed positive, listened to their coaches and took on the advice being given to them. Slowly, they started to break down the defence and create more opportunities, scoring another two goals in the third quarter while the Blues added six, making it 22–4.

Then came the final quarter — and they saved their best until last!   They found every last bit of energy and played some lovely netball together. We saw some fantastic team passages of play, with the ball travelling from the back line through almost the whole team and eventually into the net. The girls added another two goals, while the Blues managed three.

It was definitely a tough day in the office, but these are the games where the girls learn the most. It’s not always about the easy wins — sometimes the toughest defeats teach you the most. Today they showed resilience, listened, battled right until the final whistle and, most importantly, pulled together as a team.

Opposition Player of the Match: Goldie — for her fantastic goalkeeping and winning the ball back.

Coaches’ Player of the Match: Olivia F — for her great defensive work, and moving the ball up the court and off the line.

A huge well done to every single girl today. First one done and dusted… onto the next!

The Blues had a great first match of the season playing in the U13 league. The game had everything, goals, drama, tension and most importantly a win.

The match was tight from start to finish between two very evenly matched teams.  The Blues started well scoring first and taking a slim lead into the second quarter (3-2).. The girls grew into the match with each quarter being a tight battle. Going into the last quarter it was 8-8. With some girls playing out of position due to multiple injuries the girls maintained their focus and pushed through for a 11-9 win.

It was a great introduction to this new league. The Blues adapted well to the higher tempo, physicality and longer quarters. They coped admirably with all the injuries and for a first game back they played well as a team.  Lots to learn and grow in this season but a great start.

OPOM:Anika
CPOM: Hannah O

The Under-14 Blues made an incredible start to their season with a fantastic 53–0 victory against Leyton. The girls put in a brilliant team performance, showing great teamwork, determination and sportsmanship throughout the game.

A special congratulations to Lily, Nevaeh and Ava, who played their first game with this group and absolutely smashed it!

It was a fantastic way to begin their league campaign, and the girls will be looking to build on this performance as they continue their season. We are incredibly proud of them and excited to see what they can achieve over the coming weeks!

Essex Open U13 Maroons 17–14 Aspire Amber

Under-16 League – Group A | Saturday, 12 September

Essex Open Under 13 Maroons made an outstanding start to their season on Saturday, taking on Aspire Amber in the Under-16 League Group A.

Playing three years above their age group against arguably one of the strongest teams in the league, the Maroons showed incredible determination and skill despite a significant height disadvantage.
Aspire used their height to good effect early on, taking a 7–4 lead after the first quarter.

However, the Maroons responded brilliantly, making a small adjustment in the midcourt and steadily turning the game around. They went into the final quarter with a narrow lead and continued to show excellent composure.
The midcourt combinations worked effectively, while our defence was immense, producing several crucial interceptions before the ball reached the circle edge.

Our defenders were outstanding in general, but Shyanne in particular delivered a stunning performance in defence.
Our shooters also moved intelligently, finding pockets of space despite the height difference.

The Maroons held their nerve to secure a fantastic 17–14 victory, capping off a brilliant performance and a well-deserved win.

What a way to start the season, girls!

Oppositions player of the match: Shyanne

Coaches player of the match: Edie