On Friday the U11 girls travelled to Millfield to play in the Regional IAPS competition. There were 28 teams in the competition, with only 4 places in the National Finals up for grabs.

Undeterred by the persistent rain, the Junior School girls showed determination right from the start, with Molly Lyle, Annabel Chess and Ellen Barry kicking off the first game to a 3 -0 victory. The next two games, against Kings Hall and Kingswood were also successful, with Maddie Peel finding the back of the net in each game.

A stunning 4-0 victory against Wycliffe was next on the agenda in the group stage, with Romilly Boddington netting an impressive hatrick. The Down’s School however proved to be a more challenging opposition, beating the CCJS girls 2-0. Not to be deterred, the girls rallied for their final group match, going through as top of the group with a 1-0 victory over All Hallows.

Finishing top of the group meant a "play off" game against Taunton School, with both teams aware that the winner was guaranteed a place at Nationals... Nerves were on edge - and that was just the supporters! Despite going 0-1 down after 4 minutes the girls kept their cool and pushed on creating numerous goal opportunities and 5 short corners. Unfortunately, despite an immense amount of effort and character, the ball just wouldn't cross the line and the girls just missed out on a place in the Nationals.

All team members should be congratulated for giving their all throughout the day; they were a real credit to both themselves and The Junior. Thanks also to all the parents who came to watch the matches and to the staff; Mr Lane, Mr Keeling and Mrs Woodall.