Christmas Term 2022 - Week 9 Sports Report

Hockey v Wellington College

Last week there was a block fixture against Wellington College.

The 1st XI played an entertaining game, with both sides creating a number of good goalscoring opportunities in an open encounter. An injury early on to central midfielder Georgie Boon meant we temporarily lost our shape, and we were indebted to the quick reflexes of keeper Mia Ashby Rudd who made a string of fine saves. However, Boon returned and we kept playing forwards positively, with Tara King causing havoc on the left flank. One such run saw her feed Maya Doubleday, whose cross was converted at the far post by Poppy White to give us the lead just before half time. However, from the restart, we failed to gain solid possession and allowed Wellington to overload at the far post and equalise seconds before the half time break. A freakish deflection off a foot in the D just after the interval meant we trailed 2-1, but still we pressed, won corners and could have scored. Wellington scored a corner of their own to extend their lead to 3-1 and we were guilty of not taking further chances to level the game up. Still, we were very competitive against a talented side and it was also pleasing to welcome Charlie Whitmore back into the matchday squad following a long injury lay off. MDC

A beautiful sunny afternoon for the 2nds vs Wellington 16A (photo attached). The team started a little sluggish and were brutally awoken by a quick score from the oppo and intense pressure in our 25. But we woke up and began to move the ball better. Welly managed somehow to keep the ball off the line after a well manoeuvred play from Anouska Loveridge. Play now dominated by Canford, pressing hard but not able to convert. With 8 minutes to go the effort paid off and Anouska's shot deflected into the path of Meg Mowbray to equalise. Welly retaliated promptly to lead 2-1. The last 5 minutes were end to end with both teams winning short corners; Maddie Nickell bravely intercepting the strike and the defensive unit working hard. Welly started the second half hard and got an early goal: 3-1. Canford were struggling to find their form again, but when the passing is quick and wide we got through every time. Welly were just a bit sharper on the day and score their 4th after a barrage of corners and despite keeper Jorgia Holtby’s best efforts. A solid effort from the 2s with some golden glimpses, but they'll agree that weren't at their best. We never gave up and nearly made up a couple! Loss 4-1. RHJH/AGF

3rd XI v Wellington 2nd XI, Lost 0-3

It was always going to be a tough call playing up a team against a school with twice the number of pupils to choose from, and it was immediately clear that our opponents were exceptionally skilful. For the first 20 minutes they battered the Canford end and gave the opportunity for Layla Stannah to pull off the most exceptional display of goal-keeping I have ever seen at 3rd XI level. Likewise our backs soaked up the onslaught and Canford never lost their determination to repel the invaders. With Wellington unleashing reverse stick strikes from the top of the D and 3D skills aplenty it was akin to facing a 1st XI, and it says much for our heroic efforts that we were only 2 down by half time. In the second half Canford were equally determined and aggressive with Evie Liddell amongst others demonstrating great individual skill and grit. Our forwards found space more effectively and we continued to work hard across the pitch, upping the ball pace and occasionally breaking through. The final score of 0-3 was a genuine triumph of which the girls should be very proud. RMBS

Canford 4th XI v Wellington College U16Bs 2-0 win

After weathering the initial storm, Canford just got better and better and Wellington despite a valiant effort, were unable to get the ball past out fantastic defence. Canford’s first visit into the oppositions half resulted in a well taken goal against the run of play. Just before half term, Suzy Crib, playing centre half, collected the ball just outside the 25 yard line, weaved her way around the defence and struck an unstoppable hit from the top of the D into the far corner – it was the goal of the season so far. In the last 20 minutes or so, Canford were the dominant side particularly in the midfield passing the ball confidently and spoiling every attack from the opposition – they just did not look like scoring being unable to enter the D. It was a very disciplined performance by the whole defensive unit to keep the goals out and fantastic play by the forwards to make the most of the opportunities on the break.

Players of the match –

• Lucy Stephenson in goal for her fantastic saves especially at the start of the match when the scores were level.
• Suzy Cribb – for a dominant performance in the midfield and scoring a fantastic goal
• The whole squad – possibly the best match I’ve ever seen from a Canford 4th XI, in my time as 4th XI coach!

CHJ

5th XI v Wellington College U16Bs. Lost 2-0

Across this match, it feels a little harsh that we lost 2-0. I don't doubt that "Welly" had the edge and in the first half, Olivia Sellers in goal made some absolute crackers of saves! We played good hockey, we moved the ball on quickly and kept on fighting. Second half we really produced some of our best hockey! Stretching the pitch with wider runs and having a higher player down the pitch, we came so close on 4 occasions but couldn't find the back of the net. As they started to tire, we continued to press their D and set ourselves up, but much like first half the keeper saved a lot of balls.

Very proud of how they played and sometimes you take away more from a loss that you do a win.

Player of the match - Olivia Sellers GK. Most improved - Alice Butler. EJB

U15A

The match on Saturday against Wellington was a tough game as Wellington are a good side (They were National Runners up as U14s last year), but their high standards brought ours up too, leading to arguably the best performance of the team this season. Everyone knew what they were doing and played to their best abilities, with a strong defence, barely letting Wellington past the halfway line, and tracking back quickly when they did. Their performance was backed solidly by Kate Landale as Goalie who had to come out of the goal for an intense one on one and made some brilliant saves. Our attack was solid, with goals from Jess Taylor and Tess Byng, and we made some great runs down the wing. Player of the match in defence was Anna Landale and attack was Georgia Kenny. And the overall score was 2-2.

The U15B game against Wellington was definitely a tough one. Th game started and the ball kept going to and fro across the pitch not really getting anywhere. The Wellington players were fast and knew their strengths. However, our defenders were a strong wall and made it very difficult for Wellington to get through. Furthermore, quite quickly we picked up on their tactics and how they played, and we become a stronger team than ever before. The match was a tough one and has improved us a team as the score ended up being 0-0. (Poppy Machray)

U15C

Facing a strong Wellington team of 17 with Canford’s XI meant that it was a challenge from the start. Despite excellent direction from our Keeper Felicity, Wellington’s formation was strong and at HT they were 4-0 up. We used this as an opportunity to focus on areas of the game we want to work on - spacing, push backs and sticks on the ground. Canford restricted Wellington to only 2 more goals in the second half, which although the overall 6-0 defeat was disappointing, there was a lot of positives and clear improvement just form the second half alone. Zion and Sophie were voted best defence and attack by Wellington. EJW

U14A - Canford 0 Wellington 5

Three goals scored in the first half and two in the last 3 minutes, tells the story of the game for the U14As. For the majority of the second half where we replicated what we had produced at Sherborne i.e. we competed, we chased back after missed tackles, moved into space to offer for the easy pass and tried to use all our players. For the rest of the game, against what were admittedly a good side, we lost our shape and went back to one or two players being expected to dribble through and score. An important lesson reinforced. NRB

The score line for this match does not reflect the performance of the U14B team. After a tough first half, where Emily Hall managed to hit the post and Aoife Tarpey and Julide Kose were both against the goalkeeper heading for goal, we found ourselves 5-0 down. With a team talk and suggestions made from players, the decision made was to start as if it was 0-0 and to ensure when attacking and defending, we did it as a team. Sticks in and ‘go Canford’ they were pumped ready to fight for a goal. I was so proud of their performance, they kept their positions on pitch, fought for the ball and defended like crazy when not in possession. Well done to Emily for clinching a goal but it has to go down as a team effort. My favourite quote of the day when coming off the pitch was from Zoe Watson ‘I loved that match, that was so much fun’. Well done to Cata Gata who was voted as Most Valuable Player. NXW

We knew it was going to be a tough game for the U14Cs against a strong team, this week we had several subs to play around with and swap in and out. The girls persevered in the first half of the game; with our Keeper; Tess Gowar, making some great saves. However, Wellington came out strong and ended the first half 7-0. After a quick team talk about giving more energy, the girls were ready to face the other half. There was good talking during the second half especially from the captain Ellen. The girls communicated more and kept up the fight; with some good tackles. Only conceding 2 goals in the second half. The final score was 9-0 to Wellington College. Players of the match - Leena Kachemad and Maiia Bryl

This week sees the Boys’ U18 indoor team contesting the County Finals, league action for the Girls1sts at Dean Close, and the 15Cs v QE, before the Centenary block fixture v Stowe.

Rugby v Taunton, Milton Abbey, Sherborne and BCS

1st XV vs Taunton School W 24-22

The 1st XV made the long journey out west this week to take on Taunton hoping to chalk up another away win. Things started more slowly than we would have liked with Taunton reclaiming their kick-off and starting the match on the front foot. Their possession and pressure were rewarded with a chance to opening the scoring and take the lead 3-0. This seemed to wake us up as we then enjoyed a healthy period of play down in our opponents’ half. The efforts spearheaded once again by the front row, applying pressure in the scrums. The pack once more got the lineout drive and maul variations up and running nice and early, causing their Taunton counterparts plenty of issues.

The direct play and concerted pressure was rewarded with scores for both Oscar Feingold and Sam Janaway and had us sitting in a comfortable if not commanding position. Sadly, we then let the rest of the first half meander somewhat without really grabbing things by the scruff of the neck. There seemed to be a lack of laser beamed focus and this found its way into the physical elements. Taunton were able to contest possession and just slow ball down enough to stifle our attack. Or we got a little white line focused when there was space out wide to score. This didn’t have an impact until Taunton converted some late first half pressure and made the score uncomfortable 14-10 to Canford at half time.

The second half started at a much quicker tempo with the Canford side calling the shots and dictating the shape of the game. We were rewarded with an excellent score following a sweeping movement across the pitch from one side to another, combining direct play and skilful ball movement, the gap moved back out to 19-10. We then nearly scored again from a similarly impressive phase of play, only the last pass missing the intended recipient that would have killed the game off.

We then had another lapse in concentration, an intercept that moved the scores back to 19-15 and then, with about 10 minutes to go Taunton took the lead. Once again from some close work through their own forward pack, leaving us in a very challenging position.

There was a notable ramp up in the Canford intensity and desire, staring at the unthinkable of a Taunton win we seemed to spin up through a couple of gears. Carries seemed more purposeful and support was more attentive, back on the front foot we tried desperately to claw back the advantage on the scoreboard. With time running out it looked like we might be staring down the barrel of defeat. Then up stepped the pack to win a vital scrum feed against the head. George Burnell was quick to respond from the base of the scrum and carried multiple defenders over the line to seal the win.

A great effort in the end to claim the victory but we well know that we should have been comfortably ahead in these closing stages. We will have to be much more focused when we welcome Seaford on Saturday to Higher Park!

2nd XV v Taunton

Score: W 50-7

Tries: Tom Windsor, Jamie Elviss, Zach Ashby-Rudd, Finn Janaway (2), Monty Hooker, Ivor Ritson, Vic Lee

Conversions: Monty Hooker (5)

POTM: Tom Windsor

Special Mentions: Finn Janaway, Vic Lee, Henry Stear, Jansci Motsi

The 2nd XV enjoyed their road trip to Taunton with a dominant victory in their strongest performance of the season so far against a team who were no pushovers. The first half was evenly matched with the score at 10-7 to Canford with 5 minutes to go – Tom Windsor had put Canford ahead with a powerful run from the 22, with Jamie Elviss adding another a few minutes later – but it was 2 late tries as the first period ended that proved to be the knockout punches. First Zach Ashby-Rudd scored from the well-oiled driving line out, and then Finn Janaway smashed his way over close to the posts having being denied seconds before, leaving us with a comfortable 22-7 half time lead.

In the second half, the good work of the likes of Henry Stear and Vic Lee, who carried, supported and tackled well all day, paid off. Taunton tired and Canford capitalised. First Monty Hooker threw one of his outrageous dummies to nip through the guard at the ruck to score under the posts, then Ivor Ritson picked a good line off Vic Lee to crash over, after makeshift flyhalf had put Jansci through to make a big break. Finn Janaway picked up his second try from the base of the scrum on the 22m line, swatting aside defenders as he went. Vic Lee had the final word, after POTM Windsy picked up through the middle and popped a delightful offload to Vic. Monty Hooker, having switched to drop kicks when Taunton denied him the use of their tee, added conversions for the final 5 tries. An excellent victory that made the long journey home worth it – as did the high class karaoke!

2nd/3rd XV v Milton Abbey

Score: L 10-17

Tries: Monty Hooker, Ivor Ritson

POTM: Henry Stear

Special Mentions: Charlie Smith, Frederick Bowater, Ivor Ritson

A mixed 2nd and 3rd XV took on Milton Abbey 1st team, and were ground down in the second half, having dominated the first. Canford were given an early shock when Milton Abbey spun the ball wide deep in their own half to sprint clear of the home team cover. Monty Hooker immediately struck back for the blues, throwing a big dummy and sniping over close to the line. There was then a sense of déjà vu as the visitors repeated the trick of running around the Canford defence to retake the lead. Once again the boys fought back, with Henry Stear to the fore with several big carries, along with Frederick Bowater, and eventually the ball was moved wide to Ivor Ritson who finished well, taking several defenders with him. Canford had other chances to score in the first half which they would regret. Milton Abbey used the wind well to dominate territory in the second half, along with possession thanks to a massive penalty count in their favour. They scored half way through under the posts, and never really looked like losing it from there. Lessons to be learned in terms of game management – playing in the right areas, taking chances and keeping width in the defensive line being some of the key ones.

U17 v Taunton

As the Under 17 coach, I was quite happy that at the time of selection on Friday it appeared as if we had a squad of at least 16 even possibly 17. However, my delight was short lived as players that I thought were available to me were picked up to fill gaps in both the 2nds and the 16As respectively. Add to that illness and injury and what I thought was a potential full squad, eventually dropped back to a squad of 13 as we travelled over to Taunton. To their credit Taunton were understanding and evened things out and so on quite a large pitch a 13 a side game then began with what can only be described as one with ’plenty of space out wide’ It was space we quickly exploited and to our surprise we found ourselves 12 – 0 up with two good tries being scored and a solid conversion being made by stand in kicker Felix Church. However, Taunton then powered back with strong forward play and despite our gallant defence they scored and had several held up tries. It was at this point, during that defensive effort that our scrum half Otto Lawrence damaged a finger and was unable to continue. This led to more than a little disorganisation and soon we found ourselves 22 -12 down and also, through an addition injury, down to 11 men. At half time Taunton very kindly gave us 3 of their subs and a 14 man a side second half begun. This half was to be an epic with Canford scoring 4 tries to Taunton’s 1( 2 coming from Taunton’s replacements ) and we found ourselves in a tied game, with minutes to go and a conversion from out wide on the left to put us in front.

Felix duly obliged (with a little help from the upright) and with minutes to play the unthinkable, earlier in the day was on the cards. Regrettably, we gave away a penalty on our own 22 with the last desperate play of the day, which Taunton, with nerves of steel duly converted. A one-point loss, an epic end to a wonderful game

MOM the whole 13 man squad who travelled and played.

U16s

Canford had to reset and go again after their monumental win against Bryanston last week. They were in for yet another test against a confident Taunton side. The conditions were polar opposite to last week, which led to a much more open and expansive game. The opening stages of the game did not go Canford’s way with a long swathe of Taunton possession ultimately ending in a pick and go score for the visitors (0-5). However, the new-found self-belief amongst the 16s saw them bounce straight back and after some tactful kicking saw them applying pressure in the Taunton 22. This eventually amounted to Fearnley bull-dozing his way through multiple defenders to cross the whitewash (5-5). Serjeant added the extras with ease (7-5). For the remainder of the first half there wasn’t much between the two sides and the only other points came from another mature decision to go for the posts from Canford that Serjeant gladly slotted (10-5).

Unfortunately, the second half didn’t have quite the same success for Canford. The 16s were relentlessly defending for large portions of the half and made life extremely difficult for Taunton, however didn’t see much attacking ball for themselves. Understandably, after long periods of defence, Taunton eventually managed to break through and secure a second try (10-10). This saw Taunton’s confidence build and their off-loading game started to come together, leading to a try out-wide to steal the game at the death (10-15). An unfortunate loss for the Canford 16s but another valiant performance where the effort from all players involved cannot be faulted. A lot of lessons learned and it is important that they now regroup before another big challenge away to Seaford this coming weekend.

U15 vs Taunton

The 15As put in a remarkable performance to win a closely contested fixture against a spirited Taunton side. The defence for both sides was particularly miserly but Canford managed a well worked try on the opening exchanges. Leading 5-0 going into the last 15 minutes Taunton were throwing everything at Canford and finally found the equalizing score only for Canford to force a penalty at the breakdown shortly afterwards. Ralph Boldt slotted the 40m penalty and the Canford defence did the rest in heroically repelling attackers right up to the final whistle. 8-5 win.

U15A v BCS

The U15As put in their best performance of the season to dispatch Bournemouth Grammar. Systems and structure were very evident in a dominant display. The boys grew in confidence throughout and we got to see them at their expansive best during the second half. Freddy Jackson was our player of the match for leading the pack and defensive line in a 43-8 win.

U15B v Milton Abbey and Taunton

A big plus this week for the U15Bs occurred with our support of the ball carrier and subsequent ball protection which saw any opposition jackal attempts be fruitless. Put this with a real willingness to take a tap penalty quickly and Canford are a tricky team to keep out! Our cohesive desire to put body on the line during defence meant that any opposition scores were very hard fought for indeed. As a result, Canford eased past two decent sides in Milton Abbey and Taunton with winning scorelines of 33-5 and 25 – 12 respectively. A fine, firm tackle and a wonderful take and give from Alfie Cochrane probably nudged him as player of the week as it showed us that giving the ball to players in space leads to tries! Discipline and line speed are the two things to focus on in the short-term.

U14A v Sherborne – Cup game L14-26

Canford U14As travelled to Sherborne on Thursday for the second round in the Schoolsports Magazine National Cup. Although the boys fell short, it was a performance they could be proud of. Sherborne got off to a fast start and took a 12-0 lead, however Canford fought back and their relentless line speed saw them push their opponents back down the pitch. Finally they turned the ball over and Phoenix Wilson crashed over from short range. Sherborne hit back after half time making it 19-7 but once again, Canford refused to go out quietly and Hector Hedges bulldozed his way through. Sherborne would score with the final play to finish at 26-14. The boys should be proud and with them due to play Sherborne again at the end of the year, they should have every confidence that they can turn their rivals over on another day.

U14A v Taunton L5-19

Canford travelled to Taunton on Saturday and once again put in a strong performance despite coming out second best. Taunton started strong and Canford withstood the pressure, making many last ditch tackles to keep the score 7-0 at halftime. The second half, the boys came out looking to take the game to their opponents and got themselves right back into it as Kit Bulstrode-Newman crashed over from short range to make it 7-5. The boys then had 10 minutes where they really tested Taunton but were unable to make their pressure pay and two late Taunton tries saw Taunton come away with the win. Once again, plenty to learn for the team but this group continues to grow week on week and they should once again be proud of their performance.

Player of the week - Warren Iyamu - outstanding ball carrying and great tackling including a last minute defensive tackle!

U14B v BCS U14A

Following their tremendously spirited display last time out against local adversaries, Bryanston, the squad were understandably buoyant prior to the BCS fixture. This cautious optimism, however, was short-lived, as an enormous team from Bournemouth Collegiate took the field. This huge physical advantage had an instant impact and despite encouraging defensive endeavour from the Canford lads, the BCS team ran in 6 unanswered tries. Thoughts quickly turned to Saturday's fixture against Taunton and an opportunity to rediscover the winning touch.

U14B v Taunton

A beautiful November afternoon in Somerset provided the perfect backdrop for an exceptionally compelling game between two evenly matched sides. Canford clearly held the upper hand 'up front' while the Taunton backline included a couple of dynamic broken-field athletes. Game on. Two tries apiece was an accurate reflection of a thoroughly entertaining first half. Will Trotter and Felix Inglis were called to 'higher plains' to assist the A team and the resultant reshuffle unfortunately upset the rhythm and second half cohesion. The squad never really reached the heights of the first half display and Taunton ran in 2 further tires to finish 24-12 winners. There were some excellent performances, with Ethan Yeow's tackling masterclass worthy of mention. Elsewhere, Yakov Vorobyev was a constant thorn in the side of the Taunton rear-guard while Sam Ulyett and Ed Scott carried tirelessly all afternoon.

U14C v Taunton W67-12   

The mighty C team boarded the bus to Taunton with all of the enthusiasm of youth but sadly, in the case of at least 3 boys, without the necessary equipment to take to the field. Do I really need to ask if they all have gumshields and boots before we depart?

Fortunately, our hosts were very accommodating and, having reduced their numbers to match our depleted side, they also allowed us to run in some early tries. Canford maintained their dominance throughout the first half, taking advantage of the sloping pitch and a slightly shell-shocked Taunton side to score 40 unanswered points by the break.

The change of ends brought a change of momentum and, with their coach's advice still ringing in their ears, Taunton's more direct running started to expose cracks in Canford's hitherto untested defence. Conceding 2 tries seemed to shake Canford from their torpor and they quickly got back into their groove. A resurgent Taunton and Mr Jones’ special rules (limiting players to running only 5 metres before passing, restricting them to a maximum of 2 tries and, most crucially offering a pack of biscuits to the best tackler) combined to make the second half a more enjoyable contest.

Try scorers : Dom O'Brien (1), Jamie Tang (1), Sarp Yeltik (1), George Hudson (1), Harry Jones (2), Ethan Crorie (2), Josh Sinclair (3 tries, 6 conversions)

Oreos for best tackle: Jake Pearce

Netball

County U19 tournament

What a day for the senior netball. Not conceding a game the entire afternoon they were crowned County Champions and gained themselves a space in the SW regional finals in January 2023.

Every member played their part and it was a fantastic team effort. Player of the tournament was given to Georgie Boon. She was fantastic in attack and defence and her crucial turnover in the semi final shifted the game. The defence were on fire throughout and Dom Hudson, Honoré Cutler and Esther Browning started to really gel. It is exciting to see how they will progress throughout the year. In attack we really looked after the ball, we did the basics well and played the ball back instead of forcing it. A true testament to all their hard work so fair this term and balancing other sports and commitments. Looking forward to seeing what this team can achieve in the forthcoming term.

U14 PEDSSA

The PEDSSA Netball tournament finally took place at QE School, Wimborne after being rescheduled 3 times due to the recent weather. It was the U14s’ first Netball match for Canford and it was encouraging to see the see the team working together as a unit. Chloe Pletzer and Julide Kose worked hard at centre pass routines. Poppy Young showed versatility playing in both attacking and defensive positions. Oriana Bowater, Ruby Hindell, Elsa Kenny and Esme Kinch were a force in defence. The team worked through their early games easily before coming under pressure against Parkstone Grammar in the final. Put on the back foot they were handed their only defeat of the day. With three teams qualifying for the County Finals, U14s will have the opportunity to represent Poole and East Dorset in this competition, which will take place at Canford on Thursday 17th November.

Group Rounds: v St Edward’s Won 13-2, v Purbeck Won 11-0, v QE Won 19-1, v Ferndown 24-0

Semi Final Won 22-0 v QE

Final Lost 11-7 v Parkstone GS

Lacrosse v Godolphin

1sts v Godolphin 2nds: Score 7-7 draw

The girls exhibited some fantastic lacrosse playing over the weekend in their first home game, achieving a draw against Godolphin School. They dominated through the first half of the game, with Milly Heyman, Evie Johnstone, Laura Edwards and Ana Quieros taking control within the fan, and Nuala Binnion's amazing attitude and enthusiasm motivating the team to keep pushing through Godolphin's defensive line. Our defence also stepped up their game and displayed all the skills that they have been working on over half-term. Both Annabel Seabrook and Freya Coughlan took control within the 11m, displaying excellent communication and man on man defence. Sophia Smith stunned in goal, making some outstanding saves which in turn led to her being awarded player of the match. All in all, the girls did themselves proud, achieving a great score against a difficult opponent.

2nds v Godolphin 3rds

The girls should be so proud of themselves. This was their first game as a team and for some their first ever competitive game. They were determined and focused but most importantly enjoyed it. They kept improving as the game went on and they even used their new learnt skill of settling around the crease which resulted in them scoring four great goals. All the girls were so supportive of each other with captains Amber Peak and Millie Martin talking to the team and pushing them on. They all played really well and contributed in their own way. There were two players that Godolphin picked as players of the match, they were Millie Martin and Ella Webb. The team also decided a player’s player of the match and they chose Lottie Heyman. I am so impressed by this team and look forward to seeing them play in their next game.

Running / Cross Country

It has been a case of getting the miles in this week for Canford runners. A couple of longer runs and a stiff speed session have stretched pupils in preparation of two back-to-back fixtures in the next fortnight. Pupils enjoyed some hills and twisty trails on the far side of Canford Heath with faster runners enjoying the views on the run back to School. Our inter boys are showing real promise with at least six boys running at a quick pace. Equally, our slower running group is now very familiar with the effort required to take on a 5km route.

Rowing

This past Saturday it was great to have so many crews out on the water with Bryanston joining us for some friendly competition to mix up our usual time trials. We had twelve boats out in total, with four crews from Bryanston, eight from Canford, with several boats mixing up the two schools to create some new combined crews – and lots of bank side supporters! We had a range of boats from pairs to eights, as well as many sculling boats to navigate the twists of our winding river. The boats each raced three times with some great results across the board. Both the J16 and J18 Canford IV+ saw some excellent results and were the fastest boats on the river alongside a strong Bryanston VIII. Our girls’ crews had a great opportunity to test out some new combinations as they continued to work on the IV, as well as testing out the IV+ and the VIII+ ahead of this weekend’s Head race at Avon.

Rowing GBR U19 Assessment. Boston. 19th November

Lower Sixth former Dan Coupe attended the British rowing assessment in Boston, Lincolnshire. Dan completed the 5K course in 21:57.2 coming in 105th place. 134 boys competed. 100 junior girls also competed alongside the boys in a strong list with returning athletes from the Coupe and Junior World Championships.

Dan had the opportunity to meet head coach Rob Dauncey of Durham University and chat about future academic plans. Adam Kene (OC) one of Mr Dryden’s prodigy from 2006 was coaching where Dan and Adam were able to meet and catch up. A good result for Dan and with more opportunities on the horizon to go through to the next rounds.

Football v Bristol Grammar School and Millfield

Bristol Grammar School 3-0 Canford – ISFA National Vase Rd 1

The boys took the long journey to Bristol Grammar School on Tuesday to face tough opposition in the ISFA National Vase. BGS dominated the early parts of the game, retaining the ball well and keeping Canford under pressure. Canford did well, restricting them to only shots outside the box. BGS took the lead fortunately, with a shot from outside the box, which hit the post then the back of Landale into our net. Into half time the score was 1-0. The second half continued in the same vein, with Canford struggling to retain the ball. Two more goals followed in the second half as we pressed for the game. Our only real chance came from Sparkhall hitting the bar but lots of lessons were learned from the experience.

Canford 0-4 Millfield

Millfield took the lead early on in the game, then added another before half time. In the second half Millfield scored early, making it 3-0. Millfield added one more before the end of the game.

Another tough day for the boys on Saturday. A frustrating day at the office leaving lots to work on in the upcoming training sessions. We need to get back to playing as a team and playing football again.

Squash / Real Tennis v The Oratory

Canford went on their travels and their League programme saw them away at The Oratory in an U14 Fixture. A very close game ensued with the home team just edging the contest 5-4.

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Canford Sports Department – Team of the Week

See the photos / attachments for the new team of the week. Across all the sports and year groups those who made the team were nominated by their Heads of Sport for standing out in terms of their attitude, commitment and performance.

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