A cold, yet sunny Autumnal evening provided the perfect backdrop for the first outing yesterday of the Year 6 Stanley netball team. The squad of twenty had been training hard since the beginning of term, honing their skills and building up stamina after the series of lockdowns had prevented competitive matches for the last two years. Stanley were only able to field two teams on this occasion, making selection from this eager bunch of talented year 6s nigh on impossible. Stanley’s first matches – friendlies – were against the sporting power house that is St James’s. However, that night, reputation meant nothing as the team, captained by Daisy M, took the lead and never let it out of their sights. Demonstrating wonderful movement across the court and a sturdy defence, the team of Lilah B, Eirynn S, Harry S, Sam O’B, Erin S, Daisy W and Olivia D dominated play. Player of the match was awarded to Lilah for her outstanding contribution to the 5-2 win. The pressure was now on the next team to replicate this fantastic performance. The supporters should not have worried with goals coming in every quarter and the captain, Austin H, scoring twice, earning him the title of player of the match. Cecilia M, Hazel L, Lucas B, Harper M, Seren R and Daphne E, secured the double victory in this thrilling local Derby. With such a depth of talent in the squad this year, it is going to be a very exciting season!   

Stanley vs St James’ A   5-2     Stanley vs St James’ B   4-3