LYG Yr9 Girls vs LYG Play-offs and Finals (Girls)

Ealing Hockey Club proudly hosted the Ealing Borough London Youth Games (LYG) squad training, and the dedication paid off as our talented team showcased their skills on July 6th. The squad comprised Mia (GK), Edie, Beth, and Eva in defence, Elena and Jess L in midfield, and Cleo, Amelia, and Jess E leading the forward line.

Their first match, a brisk six-minute a half encounter, saw them up against Camden. After a somewhat slow start, the team found their rhythm once Amelia netted the opening goal. Elena sealed the win with a decisive final goal, setting a positive tone for the day.

Next up was a hard-fought, end-to-end battle against Kingston, which ultimately concluded in a 0-0 stalemate.

The third game, facing Haringey, saw the Ealing girls truly hit their stride, determined to make their home borough proud! Amelia led the charge with an incredible three goals. Jess E capitalised on a cheeky rebound, sending it to the back of the net, and Jess L ensured the keeper felt the force of their next goal!

The final pool game was a local derby against Harrow. It was a tough contest, with the Ealing players facing strong opposition. Despite the physicality, the match ended in a score draw, with Amelia securing a crucial point.

Finishing an impressive second in their pool, the girls successfully secured a semi-final spot in the Cup!

Their first knockout game against Hillingdon felt like a true final, ratcheting up the pressure for both players and coaches. Cooler heads prevailed, and Amelia once again delivered the winning goal, sending Ealing through.

They then faced Bexley, a team of previous winners, in another nail-biting midfield battle that kept everyone on the edge of their seats.

The semi-final brought a challenging match against Lewisham, who had dominated their side of the draw. Despite immense pressure, Mia delivered an outstanding performance in goal, limiting them to a 1-0 loss.

Taking the loss personally, the girls responded with renewed determination against Westminster. Jess E scored the opening goal, and after a foul prevented another scoring opportunity, Elena calmly converted a penalty flick, securing a decisive 2-0 victory for Ealing.

The agonising wait began: had the girls done enough to play for a podium finish?

Yes! Their first final game was against Lambeth. In a whirlwind of action, Lambeth played exceptionally well, securing a healthy win. A quick reset and a pep talk from the coach refocused Ealing for the bronze medal match. Everything was on the line as they met Kingston for the second time. This time, there was no doubt: Elena scored the first goal, followed swiftly by Jess, sealing a well-deserved victory!

Congratulations, girls! You truly earned that medal on the hallowed turf of the former Olympic Park!