Monday 9th February:
Colts Netball IAPS 2nd Place in the Plate
After a long journey over to Felsted School, it was a fantastic day of netball for the girls. They gelled quickly as a team and rose superbly to the challenge against a number of tough opponents.
Match results:
Pool 1
Edge Grove 4–5 Bancroft’s Prep
Edge Grove 4–1 King’s Ely
Edge Grove 3–5 Felsted Prep
Edge Grove 4–3 Brentwood Prep
Edge Grove 1–7 St Albans High School
Edge Grove 2–9 NLCS
Plate Semi Final
Edge Grove 4-2 Bishop’s Stortford College Prep
Plate Final
Edge Grove 2-5 Chigwell Prep
It was a morning of exceptional netball. With many of the opposing schools having up to 50 girls in each year group and the majority of their players competing at club level, our pupils more than held their own. The team finished 2nd in the Plate, marking significant progress compared to previous years and clearly reflecting the dedication and commitment of these pupils.
The girls made us incredibly proud. Special mention goes to our netball captain Ayomipo, along with Aria and Tippi, for their excellent skill and outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
Wednesday 11th February
Colts A Netball
Edge Grove 28-12 Beechwood Park
A fantastic game of netball from the Colts team! Edge Grove made a strong start from the very first whistle, securing 5 goals to Beechwood Park’s 4 in the opening stages. The momentum continued throughout the match, with fantastic, controlled passing down the court and great teamwork on display.
There was outstanding defensive work from Aria, while Asayoma moved into exceptional spaces, helping to transition the ball quickly and effectively up the court. The team showed great determination and composure, finishing the game with an impressive total of 28 goals.
Every player demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork. With only half the season played, there is so much to look forward to — well done to everyone involved!
Colts B Netball
Edge Grove 4-6 Beechwood Park
Edge Grove Colts B produced a fantastic performance in an end-to-end netball match against Beechwood Park this week. The team transitioned the ball effectively through the court and created several strong attacking opportunities, but were unfortunately unable to convert their chances into goals. Defensively, the Colts worked hard to slow Beechwood Park’s pace, successfully intercepting passes and disrupting their quick transitions. Despite an unfortunate loss, it was a very competitive match, with plenty of positives to take forward.
Colts C EG 9 – 8 Beechwood Park
A really well fought game played this week by the Colts C netball team. Each quarter showed progress in movement of the ball, passing, marking and interception. Lily in Centre played brilliantly to find space and move the ball down the court in order to create opportunities for goals to be scored. Sansiya worked well in attack and defence by intercepting the ball and Nico continued to score effortlessly as a GS. Well done to all players, a well deserved win again this week.
Seniors Rugby HBi
U13 Edge Grove 8 (50) – 5 (22) Beechwood Park
The Senior XIII delivered a pulsating performance this week against Beechwood Park, securing a 50-22 victory in a match defined by clinical finishing and high-intensity drama.
While the scoreline suggests a comfortable margin, the boys certainly made life difficult for themselves at times. Despite dominating large stretches of play, lapses in concentration allowed Beechwood to cross for several individual tries. Furthermore, a lack of discipline at the breakdown gifted the opposition a string of penalties, keeping the opposition within touching distance for much of the afternoon. The attacking play, however, was a masterclass in efficiency. Edge Grove crossed the line eight times in total, with the scoring breakdown as follows:
Aiden: A staggering 6 tries, showcasing elite pace and positioning.
Alex: 1 try, coming at a crucial momentum shift in the first half.
Leandro: 1 try, rewarding his tireless work rate off the ball.
While the try count stood at 8–5, the final tally was bolstered by the inclusion of conversions. Isaac deserves immense credit for his “ice-in-the-veins” performance from the tee; his great placekicking added the vital points that took the final score to 50, effectively taking the game out of Beechwood’s reach.
Man of the Match: Bolu
The standout performer of the day was undoubtedly Bolu. Named Man of the Match, he was the heartbeat of the Edge Grove offense. Time and again, Bolu’s explosive power saw him bursting through the Beechwood defense, consistently getting the team over the gain line. Though he was unlucky not to see his own name on the scoresheet, his selfless play created the platform for his teammates to shine.
U11 Rugby
U11A Edge Grove 0-10 Beechwood Park
Edge Grove U11A welcomed Beechwood Park to home soil and, despite a determined effort, came away on the wrong side of a 10–0 scoreline.
Beechwood proved to be a powerful and skilful outfit, playing with impressive structure and physicality throughout. Their organisation and direct running asked constant questions of the Edge defence, and they were able to capitalise on their opportunities to secure two well-worked scores.
To their credit, Edge Grove worked tirelessly from start to finish. There were some excellent attacking moments, with several players carrying the ball hard and making positive ground. However, despite these strong runs and determined phases of play, Edge Grove were unable to convert pressure into points.
A standout performance came from Itai, whose outstanding speed in defence repeatedly shut down Beechwood attacks. His work at the breakdown was equally impressive, rucking with real intensity and commitment to win back possession and slow opposition ball.
There are clear positives to build on, but also areas for development. Continuing to improve flat line defence and making solid, consistent tackles will be key as the team progresses. With their strong work ethic and growing confidence in attack, Edge Grove will no doubt learn from this experience and come back stronger in their next fixture.
U11B Edge Grove 2-15 Beechwood Park
Edge Grove Under-11 B Team welcomed Beechwood Park for a home fixture played in very challenging conditions. Persistent rain throughout the morning left the main field waterlogged, forcing a late switch to the smaller ‘Pig-sty’ pitch.
Edge Grove entered the fixture with confidence following a strong performance against Orley Farm the previous week. However, Beechwood Park started with intensity and accuracy, capitalising on early opportunities to take a 6–0 lead in the opening quarter. Their direct running and organised support play proved difficult to contain.
To their credit, Edge Grove responded well in the second quarter. Defensive shape improved, and there was a noticeable lift in energy and commitment. The boys competed far more effectively at the breakdown and showed greater physicality in contact.
Despite this improvement, Beechwood Park maintained their momentum and continued to convert pressure into points. The final score reflected their clinical finishing, with Edge Grove scoring two well-earned tries to Beechwood’s twelve.
A particular mention goes to Chimdi, who crossed the line twice late in the game, demonstrating determination and resilience even when the result was beyond reach. His effort summed up the spirit shown in the final stages.
While the scoreline was a tough one to take, the fixture provided a valuable learning experience. The boys showed character to keep working in difficult weather and against strong opposition.
Heads held high, lessons learned, and onto the next fixture.
Edge Grove U10 A vs Beechwood Park (5 -7)
The U10A travelled to face traditional rivals Beechwood Park, determined to put into practice the defensive structure and playing patterns worked on during training this week. The absence of Harry S was a significant blow, but the squad began the match with real purpose.
From the opening whistle, Edge Grove controlled possession superbly. Handling was sharp, rucking was committed, and the team demonstrated patience in building phases. However, when Beechwood did gain possession, a recurring issue with poor tackling proved costly. Missed tackles allowed the opposition to break through far too easily, and despite enjoying nearly 70% of the ball, Edge Grove found themselves trailing at halftime after conceding five tries.
A frank and focused halftime discussion sparked a transformation. Edge Grove emerged with renewed intensity and composure, dominating territory and possession once again, this time converting pressure into points. Kwabena led the charge with four storming tries, showcasing strength and determination. Torin J and Wolf K were tireless throughout, relentlessly harassing the opposition and creating opportunities with their work rate and defensive pressure.
The forward effort in the second half was particularly impressive. Daniel L, Raphy B, Teddy W, and Monty T added physicality and drive, providing the platform for a much-improved all-round performance. Edge Grove outscored Beechwood five tries to two after the break, demonstrating what the team is capable of when defensive discipline matches attacking intent.
Unfortunately, the damage done in the first half proved decisive, and the match ended in a 7–5 defeat. Despite the result, the second-half display offered plenty of encouragement and a clear reminder that consistency across the full match will be key in future fixtures.
Edge Grove U10 B vs Beechwood Park (10-4)
Edge Grove U10 B travelled to Beechwood Park this week to face a side known for its rugby strength, and delivered an outstanding performance to secure a superb 10–4 victory. The team showed excellent cohesion throughout the match, consistently keeping the ball alive with clever offloads in the majority of tackles. This attacking intent allowed Edge Grove to repeatedly test and break down the Beechwood Park defence, creating space and scoring tries. A special mention must go to Rafael K, who captained the side brilliantly and scored an incredible six tries. Alexander B demonstrated great resilience and commitment in defence with some excellent tackling, while Kevin K and Oscar J impressed with their determined and direct attacking runs. It was a fantastic team effort and a clear sign of the squad’s progression. Moving forward, the focus in training will be on further improving tackling technique and rucking to continue building on this strong performance. Well done boys.
U10 & U11 Touch Rugby
The Under 10/11 Touch Rugby squad rounded off their half-term with an action-packed afternoon of mixed matches alongside Beechwood Park.
With the squad currently thinned by a string of injuries, the Edge Grove boys showed great character by integrating into mixed teams. Jesse, Garv, Arhaan, Aahil, and Joshua stepped up, splitting across the field to play alongside the Beechwood Park players for several excellent quarters of high-energy rugby.
The scoreboard was kept busy throughout the afternoon. Both mixed teams found plenty of space, resulting in “tries a-plenty” for both sides. Jesse and Joshua were particularly sharp in attack, crossing the white line multiple times to add significantly to their season tallies.
It was clear to see the massive improvements made by the Edge Grove contingent since their last meeting with Beechwood Park. Their positioning and ball handling showed a new level of confidence.
The afternoon was a great way to finish the half term – well done to all the boys involved for their effort and positive attitude.
Thursday 12th February
U9 Mr Dippenaar’s team vs Kingshott (12 – 2)
After three frustrating weeks of cancellations due to poor weather and waterlogged pitches, the Edge Grove U9As were eager to get back to competitive action as they travelled to Kingshott. Training sessions in the interim had been put to good use, with a clear focus on attacking options, continuity in play, and defensive structure and it showed from the very first whistle.
Edge Grove immediately took control of the match, moving the ball confidently and scoring from both set pieces and broken play. The attacking patterns worked on in training were executed superbly, with strong support lines and excellent decision-making keeping the momentum flowing.
Defensively, the team was equally impressive. Solid tackling and disciplined positioning made it extremely difficult for Kingshott to establish any sustained pressure. By halftime, Edge Grove had built a commanding 10–2 lead.
The second half continued in much the same fashion, with two further well-worked tries scored within the opening five minutes. At that point, with the result beyond doubt, it was agreed to bring the match to an early conclusion and allow the Edge Grove B side to take to the field for the remaining twenty minutes, a great opportunity for further development across the squad.
There are no individual stand-out mentions this week, as the performance was truly a collective effort. Every player contributed to an outstanding team display. Congratulations to Oluwatobi, James R, Ray H, Matthew, Danny L, Noah K, and Arjun H you did Edge Grove proud.
Final Score: Edge Grove 12 – 2 Kingshott
Mrs Futerill’s team vs Kingshott
10-2
The boys delivered a great performance today, combining carefully planned tactics with hard work. In a game defined by excellent teamwork, the squad remained disciplined and determined from the opening whistle. Keshav set the tone with several excellent tackles and a try. Harrison led the attack with six tries. Both players showed strong leadership, sharing the captaincy duties throughout the match. Eli scored three tries whilst Kush, Reyansh and Shreyas played bravely, putting in vital tackles and gaining ground to stifle the Kingshott offense. It was a solid display of school spirit and tactical execution that secured a well-deserved win.
U8 Rugby
Mr Saunt’s team:
Edge Grove 5 – 8 Kingshott
A challenging but hugely encouraging fixture for the Under 8s in only their second touch rugby match of the season. Kingshott School proved to be a strong side, with a couple of very effective runners who clearly understood how to manipulate space and use the rules of touch rugby to their advantage. They tested us throughout the game and made us work hard in defence.
That said, Edge Grove responded brilliantly. Defensively, the shape of our line was particularly impressive. The boys worked hard to stay connected, slide across together and maintain spacing. For such an early stage in the season, the structure is coming along very nicely. There were clear improvements from our first fixture, and the discipline in holding the line was excellent to see.
In attack, the progress was just as pleasing. The team showed real understanding of depth and width, spreading the ball well and creating space rather than bunching around it. When we got it right, we looked sharp and threatening. A special mention must go to Noah and Freddie. Their link-up play was outstanding. Between them, they were directly involved in setting up three of our five tries, combining with good communication, intelligent support lines and strong handling under pressure. A fantastic effort from both boys.
For just our second fixture, this was a hard-fought and very promising performance. The work ethic was superb, and the foundations are being built well. We look forward to building on these lessons in training and continuing to develop as a team.
Well done, boys.
Mr Hunt’s team:
The Edge Grove U8 team travelled away to Kingshott for a touch rugby fixture in extremely challenging conditions, with heavy rain throughout the match. Despite the weather, the boys delivered an excellent performance and showed great determination from start to finish. Defensively, Edge Grove were outstanding. The team worked brilliantly together, moving up as a well organised line and consistently preventing Kingshott from breaking through. Their communication and teamwork were clear to see, and they showed real resilience in difficult conditions. In attack, the boys moved the ball confidently and demonstrated some excellent handling skills despite the wet weather. There were some standout individual contributions within a strong team performance. Jagger C controlled the game superbly and led the team with confidence, while Danyal A impressed with his fantastic hands in slippery conditions. On the scoreboard, Jagger C added a try, while Isaac J, Oscar C and Jay P each crossed the line three times, contributing to a convincing 10–4 victory for Edge Grove. Overall, it was a fantastic display of teamwork and effort, and a brilliant way to end the half term. We will continue to focus on improving our support play in attack, but this was a performance the boys should be very proud of. Well done to all involved.
Mr McManus’s team:
Edge Grove 14 – Kingshott 5
We have been working hard at training on doing the basics of rugby correctly, that is running straight, supporting your teammate and having a solid defensive line. I am delighted that the boys were able to show all of this in a dominant display of rugby against Kingshott. Ishan, Devan and Zakaria D led the way on attack, running straight and offloading quickly to supporting players. Finlay was able to benefit from this by receiving a number of passes in space and scoring a number of tries. Ruairi showed great pace and ran with real determination, also scoring a number of tries. The standout players this week were Maximillian and Nathaniel who defended excellently, rushing up and putting the opposition players under great pressure, often driving them back with the sheer speed of their defensive line. Well done to all the boys on a fantastic match.
Miss Corin’s team
Edge Grove vs Kingshot
10-6
Well done, Edge Grove, on a fantastic win! You played with great energy and teamwork from start to finish. It was brilliant to see you passing the ball confidently to your teammates and remembering to tag the opposition so effectively. You supported each other well and kept going right to the final whistle.
Zakaria, Asher and Oscar were just a few of the many children who managed to score a try, a real team effort all round. Every single one of you played your part, whether it was scoring, defending, or encouraging your teammates.
I was really impressed with the way you approached the game today. It was a pleasure to watch and a wonderful way to finish the half term. Well done everyone, you should be very proud!
