Author: Steve Wilks

Essex Open U12 Maroons vs Conquerors U12s (Sisters n Sport Cup – First Round)

Essex Open U12 Maroons began their Sisters n Sport Cup campaign with what looked like a tough first-round tie against Conquerors U12s. Any nerves were quickly settled as the Maroons stamped their authority on the game from the start, racing into a commanding lead.

By the second quarter, Essex Open had the match virtually wrapped up, dominating in all areas of the court with fast play, strong defence, and clinical finishing. Their intensity left Conquerors struggling to keep pace.

With the result secure, the Maroons used the opportunity to rotate players and experiment with new positions, showing the depth and versatility of the squad. They finished convincing 36–14 winners and now progress confidently into the second round.

Opposition player of the match: Elisha
Coaches player of the match: Shyanne

Sisters n Sport U14 Fixture
Essex Open Maroon 30 – 43 Wodson Park

The Essex Open U14 Maroon team faced Wodson Park in their Sisters n Sport fixture, and it proved to be a thrilling contest from start to finish.

The opening quarter set the tone, with both sides trading goals in a fast, end-to-end display. Wodson Park edged ahead by the narrowest of margins, but Essex Open showed resilience and discipline in defence to keep the scoreline tight.

The second and third quarters mirrored the first in intensity, with Essex Open matching their opponents stride for stride. Their attacking partnership worked tirelessly to create scoring opportunities, while the defenders ensured that Wodson Park were never able to run away with the game.

In the final quarter, however, Wodson Park managed to pull away, sealing a 43–30 win despite Essex Open’s determination to stay in touch.

Throughout the match, Essex Open demonstrated they can compete with the very best at this level. Their teamwork, adaptability, and determination highlighted just how much they deserve their place in this competition.

Player of the Match (as chosen by the opposition) went to Jessie, while the Coach’s Player of the Match was awarded to Asia. Both defenders were outstanding, showcasing the strength of Essex Open’s defensive unit and making Wodson Park work exceptionally hard for their victory.

Essex Open U12 Maroons vs New Campbell Tigers (Essex Met U14 League)

In their second Essex Met U14 League game, Essex Open U12 Maroons met New Campbell Tigers in a fiery contest. The Tigers struck first with two quick goals, but the Maroons’ speed and determination soon turned the tide, finishing the opening quarter ahead.

The second quarter saw Essex Open at their best, dominating through sharp passing and relentless defence. Their energy and teamwork kept New Campbell under pressure, extending their advantage at half-time.

Enforced changes in the third quarter gave New Campbell a way back, and the game became end-to-end in the final phase. But the Maroons showed resilience beyond their years, holding firm to take a hard-fought 19-17 victory.

Opposition player of the match: Elisha
Coaches player of the match: Asya

Essex Open U12 Maroons vs Woodford Warriors Navy

Fresh from qualifying for the ENG League, the Essex Open U12s carried their momentum into their first Essex Met U14 Round 1 against a tall Woodford Warriors Navy side. The squad started strongly, moving the ball quickly and taking early chances, but were pushed hard in the second and third quarters as Woodford used their height to edge ahead. Essex refused to back down, showing real grit and determination.

At the other end of the court, the young shooters thrived under pressure in Q4 while the mid-court links and new maroon defenders combined brilliantly to disrupt the Warriors’ flow. With the crowd fully behind them, Essex Open dug deep to the final whistle, sealing another spirited performance. This focused and hungry U12 squad continues to grow in confidence and strength as their exciting season builds momentum.

Coaches POM: Attack – Elisha, Defence – Jess

Opponents POM: Stella

Q1: EO 8: WW 6
Q2: EO 10: WW 12
Q3: EO 15: WW 17
Final score : EO 21: WW 19

Players :
Shekinah Anosike, Mary Aderibigbe, Jessica Bantu-Buabo, Naomi Atalar, Stella Edwards , Asya Cimikoglu, Elisha Owolabi, Skye Samaroo

Essex Open Under-14 Maroons – First Round of London & South East U14 Regional League Fixtures

The Essex Open U14 Maroons took part in their first-ever London & South East Regional League fixtures this weekend, a great achievement for this talented squad. The girls faced a tough doubleheader to open their campaign, starting with a clash against Shan Netball Club.

From the first whistle, the Maroons were competitive and showed they belonged at this level. The opening quarter was neck and neck, with little to separate the two sides. In the second quarter, Shan began to impose themselves on the game, showing their experience and strength at regional level. Despite this, the Maroons worked tirelessly in defence, making Shan fight for every goal and showing resilience across the court. The final score was Shan 36–23 Maroons, but the team gained valuable experience from the challenge.
Player of the match: Trish

The second fixture saw the Maroons face Starz Netball Club, and once again they demonstrated determination and spirit. Having learned from their opening match, the girls started to settle into the rhythm of regional competition. Their attacking play flowed more smoothly, with some excellent movement and passing through the court, while defensively they grew stronger as the game went on. In a hard-fought contest, the Maroons held their nerve to secure a fantastic 29–24 victory, their first in the Regional League.

Across both fixtures, the U14 Maroons showed exactly why they have earned their place in the London & South East Regional League. This debut outing highlighted their talent, resilience, and potential. With more exposure at this level, the squad will only continue to build in confidence and strength.

Player of the match: Jesse