Thursday 7th March 2024

After a successful World Book Day, our Year 9 Mixed Hockey Team journeyed to Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde for their first ever combined fixture against Ryde School. With many of the pupils from both teams competing together at club level, the chance to play against each other was an exciting prospect.

The first 15-minute quarter proved to be an enthusiastic end-to-end affair with Ryde having the better possession and chances at goal, however our defensive line of Seb F, Noah F-S, Phoebe H and Mio W stood firm and any chances that broke through were covered by our keepers Bluebell M and Nate B. 

The TIFS team grew into the game in the second quarter, putting together some fantastic pass-and-move hockey resulting in multiple shots on goal. The Ryde goalkeeper was on form to keep most shots out, and an unfortunate miss from forward Cian S-B left Mr Milton exasperated on the sidelines. Thankfully, a well-crafted team move saw the ball worked forward through the wings and midfield, with the resultant saved shot falling to Mia L to sweep into the open goal.

Half time and 1-0 to TIFS. 

The Ryde team came out strong at the start of the 3rd quarter with strong runs and accurate passing, breaking through the midfield and threatening the TIFS goal, unlucky not to convert their opportunities. The TIFS team upped their work rate, Polly R , Jess G and Arthur W bossing the middle of the pitch and releasing the ball wide to Nicole S and Peter M with Cian S-B causing chaos through the Ryde defence. 

Both teams continued to fight at an intensive rate throughout the remainder of the game with a multitude of opportunities falling to both teams, however strong defensive displays and inspired goalkeeper performances from all, saw TIFS run out 1-0 winners. A quick discussion between players and teams awarded an attacking and defensive player of the match, Polly R and Noah F-S receiving these respectively.

Many thanks to all the staff who coached and umpired and parents who supported from the sidelines. We look forward to the next fixture and a chance for Ryde School to avenge their loss!