Match Reports

Our high flying senior basketball team continued their preparation towards the IAPS Tournament on 14th March with an away match at Lochinver House, a team with whom they have shared fierce rivalry in rugby earlier this term.

Despite our natural size, athleticism and huge individual and team progress made in their two training sessions per week, the boys started off slowly, missing some early shots and feeling overpowered by Lochinver’s relentless defence. The boys’ heads started to fall and too many errors were being forced causing a 15-1 deficit at the half.

An emotional half time talk from their coach and Mr McManus’s cries of “Guys, you gotta catch the ball,” saw a spur of passion from Aiden and Leandro produce a flurry of points before the end, although just a little too late. A very tough match and a wake up call for our talented group who continue their journey towards IAPS.

Colts A – Mrs Emms
Edge Grove 6 – 20 Chesham Prep

A very tough game to start the half term. We had an even start, with Chesham Prep making fantastic clear passes up the court towards our attacking end.

Unfortunately, we lost our way during the middle quarters. However, we began to bring it back in the final quarter with renewed determination and energy.

The final score didn’t reflect the quality of the game we played. We made a number of exceptional interceptions, but we were just outrun on the court and often a split second behind our opponents.

Overall, it was a great game with plenty of positives to take forward. 

Colts B – Mrs O’Brien

Edge Grove 1 – 14 Chesham Prep

A good effort from the Colts B team against a strong Chesham Prep. Despite determined effort, Edge Grove were unable to come away with the win. Chesham Prep moved the ball quickly and transitioned effectively through the court, making numerous interceptions which they converted into goals. Edge Grove worked tirelessly in defence and showed great resilience and teamwork throughout, continuing to support one another and battle for possession until the final whistle. Although the result did not go their way, the team’s effort, positivity, and perseverance were clear. Well done all.

Colts C – Miss Ni’Man 

Edge Grove 0 – 10 Chesham Prep

The Colts C team faced a tough match against Chesham Prep this afternoon. Chesham started strongly, moving the ball around and putting Edge Grove under pressure. However, Edge Grove showed real improvement in the second half, tightening their marking and working more effectively as a team to reduce scoring opportunities. Tamsin was particularly impressive in defence, making several excellent interceptions that helped to slow Chesham’s momentum and demonstrate better understanding of game play. Although the result did not go in our favour, the team’s resilience and progress throughout the match were very encouraging.

U11A – Miss Evans

Edge Grove 13-1 Manor Lodge 

The U11A team produced an outstanding performance to defeat Manor Lodge 13–1, overcoming a slow start in which Manor Lodge scored the opening try before a tightly contested, end-to-end first half unfolded. Itai was exceptional in defence, putting in some excellent tackles and hitting a huge number of rucks to give the team real steel, while Aiwa made a series of outstanding carries that repeatedly put Manor Lodge on the back foot, once he began going to ground and presenting the ball quickly, it allowed us to recycle possession effectively and set up multiple tries. Edge Grove came alive in the second half, playing with greater intensity,  confidence and structure as the tries flowed, with Tommy scoring four, Jack three, Chris two, Tyler two, and Louis and Josh adding one each to complete a dominant and well-deserved victory.

U10A – Mr Dippenaar 

Edge Grove 20-6 Manor Lodge

Edge Grove U10A delivered another significantly improved performance this week, building impressively on the progress shown in their previous outing. There were clear strides in structure and decision-making, and while the defensive organisation took a few phases to fully click into place, once it did, the team looked sharp and cohesive.

A special mention must go to Monty T, who set the tone from the very first exchanges. Leading by example, he took the game to Manor Lodge with outstanding determination,  tackling with purpose, ripping the ball in contact, and carrying powerfully into space. His energy and commitment lifted those around him, inspirational and it wasn’t long before the entire team followed suit.

As confidence grew, Edge Grove began to dominate. Strong ball carrying, improved support play, and relentless pressure overwhelmed Manor Lodge, with the team playing at a high tempo and capitalising on their opportunities. The scoreboard reflected the dominance, with an emphatic 20 tries to 6 victory.

Overall, it was a highly impressive display that once again demonstrated tremendous improvement from the previous week. With continued focus on individual tackling and greater consistency at the ruck, this group is clearly moving in the right direction and building a strong platform for the challenges ahead.

U10B – Mr Hunt 

Edge Grove 13-4 Manor Lodge 

Edge Grove hosted Manor Lodge at home in an exciting U10B rugby fixture, and the boys delivered a fantastic team performance from start to finish. Playing with great energy and determination, Edge Grove secured an impressive 13–4 victory in tries. The team showed significant improvement in their structure, demonstrating much better organisation in both attack and defence. Their ability to spread the ball wide, support one another in open play, and realign quickly in defensive situations made a real difference. There were excellent individual contributions throughout the match, with tries coming from Rafael K, Kevin C, Rayan C and Oscar J, all of whom played pivotal roles in the team’s success. However, this was truly a collective effort, with strong teamwork and communication evident across the pitch. While the attacking play was outstanding, the next focus for the squad will be continuing to develop their tackling technique to ensure even greater defensive solidity in future fixtures. A superb performance overall, keep up the hard work, boys!

U8 Girls Rugby Red – Miss Evans

In their first ever rugby match, the U8 Red team produced a fantastic performance to earn an exciting 8–8 draw against York House. The team showed great enthusiasm and bravery from the very first whistle, racing into a 5–4 lead at half time thanks to some excellent tries from Orlaith, two from Lara and two from Alisha. Alisha was deservedly named Player of the Match after some outstanding running, showing real determination and pace with the ball in hand. Edge Grove defended brilliantly throughout, working hard to go after the ball whenever York House had possession and showing impressive teamwork for such a young side. The game grew in quality as it went on, with confidence increasing and skills improving by the minute. It was a superb first outing for the U8 Reds, and if this performance is anything to go by, they are going to be a great team.

U8 Girls Rugby Blue – Miss Evans

In their first ever rugby match, the U8 Blue team delivered a brilliant performance against York House, showing great enthusiasm and determination throughout. The first half was very evenly contested, with both sides battling hard for possession, but Edge Grove edged ahead to lead 2–1 at half time thanks to superb tries from Willow and Isabella Stein. As the game went on, the team’s confidence grew and their teamwork really began to shine. Edge Grove showed real determination in both attack and defence, working tirelessly for one another. In the second half, Elizabeth crossed the line for two excellent tries and Clara added another well-deserved score, sealing a fantastic 5–3 victory at the final whistle. It was a wonderful first outing for the U8 Blues and a performance that promises an exciting season ahead.

U8 Girls Rugby Green – Mr Rose

The U8 Green team enjoyed a fantastic first ever rugby match as they played out an exciting 7–7 draw against York House. For many of the players it was their first experience of match rugby, and they showed brilliant enthusiasm and courage from the very start. There was clear improvement as the game went on, with growing confidence in both attack and defence, and a real willingness to go after the ball and support one another. Aalia and Leah were in superb form, combining brilliantly and scoring all seven of the team’s tries with some determined running and excellent finishing. It was a wonderful team effort and a hugely encouraging first performance, a great foundation for what promises to be an exciting season ahead for the U8 Greens.

U8 Girls Rugby Yellow – Miss Lundrigan

Our U8 Yellow team had an incredible debut this week, delivering an excellent performance in their very first match. The energy was high as the girls worked brilliantly together, demonstrating great teamwork and a natural flair for the game that resulted in plenty of fantastic tries. It was truly lovely to watch their rugby skills develop in real-time and to see them play with such confidence and joy. Well done, girls! Every girl in the team was passionate and scored a try. 

U8 Rugby Festival:

U8A – Mr Saunt 
Lockers Park & Westbrook Hay (Away Fixture)

We travelled to Lockers Park for an exciting quadrangular festival, facing strong opposition from Lockers Park, Westbrook Hay. While results did not fall in Edge Grove’s favour on this occasion, the festival provided a hugely valuable and positive experience for the boys as they continue to build their understanding of the game.

With recent weather limiting fixture opportunities, it was especially pleasing to see the team relish the chance to play competitive matches again. Across both games, the boys showed excellent attitude, enthusiasm and resilience, holding their heads high and supporting one another throughout.

A key focus was developing the fundamentals of running straight with the ball and maintaining a connected defensive line, and there were clear signs of progress in both areas. The players demonstrated growing awareness of space, improved organisation in defence and some pleasing passages of cohesive team play.

Most importantly, the squad represented Edge Grove superbly. Their effort, teamwork and positivity were evident from start to finish, and it was clear that the boys thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Fixtures such as this are an important part of their rugby journey, laying the foundations for future development and confidence on the pitch.

Well done, boys, a tough afternoon, but a very worthwhile one, and an excellent step forward for the team.

U8B – Mr Hunt 
Lockers Park & Westbrook Hay (Away Fixture)

We travelled away to Lockers Park School to face both Lockers Park and Westbrook Hay School in an exciting afternoon of rugby.

Game 1 v Westbrook Hay – The first match against the Westbrook Hay 1st team was a highly competitive encounter, packed with attacking rugby and plenty of tries from both sides. Edge Grove produced an outstanding team performance, showing resilience, creativity, and strong support play throughout. A special mention goes to Isaac J, who scored multiple tries and worked tirelessly in defence, consistently stopping attacking threats and putting his body on the line for the team. Despite a brilliant display of touch rugby, we narrowly lost the match 6–8 in what was a thrilling contest from start to finish.

Game 2 v Lockers Park –The second fixture against Lockers Park saw the team build on their earlier performance and demonstrate improved defensive structure and teamwork. The boys communicated well, stayed organised, and worked collectively to shut down space. In attack, they made fantastic use of width, spreading the ball effectively and exploiting space to score some excellent tries. Their efforts were rewarded with a well-deserved 6–4 victory. Special praise in this match goes to Cillian W, who worked tirelessly in both attack and defence — making strong carries to gain ground and tracking back consistently to prevent Lockers from breaking through.

Overall, it was a fantastic afternoon of rugby with clear progress shown across both matches. Well done – keep building on that defensive structure and teamwork!

U8 Rugby – Mr McManus and Mrs Futerill

We travelled to Lockers Park to play a festival against them and Westbrook Hay and the boys showed just how much they have improved throughout the season. We ran straight, passed quickly to supporting players and scored some wonderful tries. All the boys performed extremely well and should feel proud of their performance. It was difficult to play against teams who did not have much structure and played a very different style of rugby however our boys stuck to the plan, played some excellent rugby and all three teams proved to be very strong.

U9 Rugby Festival:

U9A – Mr Dippenaar

The Edge Grove U9A team made the short journey to Westbrook Hay School to compete in an exciting quadrangular festival against the hosts, Beechwood Park School and Lockers Park School.

Match 1 – Beechwood Park

Edge Grove started slowly in their opening fixture against Beechwood Park. A different interpretation at the tackle area by the officiating and some early pressure saw Edge Grove go into halftime trailing.

However, the response in the second half was outstanding. With greater intensity and sharper execution, Edge Grove fought back bravely, narrowly missing out in a closely contested encounter, losing 8–7. The comeback effort set the tone for the rest of the afternoon.

Match 2 – Lockers Park

The second match saw a much more assured Edge Grove performance. The defensive line operated with discipline and cohesion, closing down space effectively. In attack, the team began to dominate possession and territory, playing with confidence and structure.

It was a deserved 10–4 victory, showcasing both attacking flair and defensive organisation.

Match 3 – Westbrook Hay

The final game against the hosts proved to be a competitive and entertaining contest. Edge Grove produced some outstanding passages of play, moving the ball intelligently and supporting each other superbly. Their disciplined approach and commitment paid off as they secured a 9 – 6 win to finish the festival strongly.

Summary 

The entire squad played disciplined, intelligent rugby, clearly implementing the skills and structure developed in training.

• Noah K was relentless and effective in defence and made powerful, direct carries, scoring some wonderful tries.
• James R captained the side superbly, constantly creating plays, leading by example throughout.
• Ray H delivered outstanding textbook tackling, stopping many opposition attacks in their tracks.
• Tobi was almost unstoppable against Lockers Park and Westbrook Hay, scoring some wonderful tries.
• Danny L created deceptive, creative opportunities and finished several well-worked team tries.
• Arjun carried strongly and remained solid defensively. A real tough young boy.
• Matthew added real physical presence, both in defence and when driving the ball forward.

Across all three fixtures, Edge Grove demonstrated discipline, teamwork, and resilience. The squad continues to develop impressively and is fast becoming a top team.

Well done, Edge Grove U9A.

U9 Tag Rugby – Mrs Warnes

The U9 tag rugby team showed fantastic motivation, teamwork and enthusiasm in their recent fixtures, demonstrating great eagerness to get involved in both attacking and defending throughout the afternoon.

Our first match was against a strong Westbrook Hay side. It proved to be an exciting and closely contested game, finishing in an impressive 6–6 draw. Aiden, Harrison and Reyansh led the attacking efforts with some excellent pace and determination, using quick sideline running to score well-earned tries. One of the highlights of the match came when Harrison produced a fabulous moment of play, ‘stealing’ the ball from the opposition before sprinting clear for a brilliant try.

In the second match, the team overpowered Lockers Park to secure a convincing 6–1 victory. Shreyas demonstrated skilful running and agility to score a superb try, while Eli showed excellent awareness by spotting a gap in the defence and racing through to add another great score.

The final match was against a determined Beechwood Park team. Reyansh, Harrison and Aiden worked tirelessly in defence, showing resilience and commitment throughout. It was truly a team effort, with Kush, Aari and Milan playing a vital supporting role, helping maintain structure and energy across the pitch.

Aldwickbury   1   V   6 Edge Grove Tobi 4, Arjun, Noah

Lochinver   2   V   6  Edge Grove   Tobi 3, Noah, Danny, Matthew

St Columbus   2   V   7  Edge Grove    Matthew, James, Ray, Tobi 2, Noah, Danny

Edge Grove U9A travelled to Harpenden Rugby Club to take part in a quadrangular festival hosted by St Columba’s, delivering an impressive display of teamwork and control across their matches.

From the outset, the team played with excellent discipline and composure, executing the structures they have been practising in both defence and attack with real confidence. Their defensive organisation proved particularly effective, with the boys working hard together to close down space and prevent their opponents from building any forward momentum.

In attack, Edge Grove showed great awareness and cohesion, moving the ball well and supporting one another to maintain pressure. As the games progressed, it became clear that their intensity and organisation were too much for the opposition, who struggled to break through the well-drilled Edge Grove defence.

What stood out most was the collective performance of the entire squad. Every player contributed to the team’s success, demonstrating strong communication, determination, and a clear understanding of their roles on the pitch. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, with several opposition coaches praising the team for their outstanding play throughout the festival.

A superb all-round performance from the boys, well done to everyone involved.

On Wednesday, the U11 girls travelled to York House for their annual rugby festival. The afternoon began with four skills stations, where the girls took part in rugby netball, worked on their defensive line, and practised quick ball pace to help create opportunities to score a try.

After the skills sessions, the girls moved into five very competitive matches of rugby. It was fantastic to see them truly apply everything they have been learning in training when playing against other schools.

The team recorded impressive wins against Berkhamsted, St Columba’s and the hosts, York House. The girls showed great teamwork, determination and confidence throughout the afternoon.

The Most Valuable Player award went to Freya G for her excellent speed down the wing and the fantastic sportsmanship she displayed throughout the festival.

A selection of our talented Year 3 and 4 gymnasts recently enjoyed an exciting gymnastics training day at High Springers. The girls had a fantastic time developing their skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Throughout the session, they worked hard to improve a range of gymnastics techniques such as handstands, cartwheels, splits, round-offs and many more. With guidance from the experienced coaches, the gymnasts practised balance, coordination and strength through a variety of activities and apparatus.

One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to practise on the uneven bars. The girls showed great determination as they worked on their circle ups, demonstrating real skill and confidence while encouraging one another.

The coaches at High Springers were very impressed with the girls’ positive attitudes and their willingness to challenge themselves. Most importantly, everyone had a brilliant time and came away feeling proud of what they had achieved.

Well done to all the girls who took part, you represented the school brilliantly and showed fantastic teamwork, determination and perseverance.

The U11A side finished their season in fantastic fashion with an outstanding 4–1 victory, delivering one of their most complete performances of the year. Despite missing players, the team came together brilliantly and showed just how far they’ve progressed, with their structure and understanding clicking into place at exactly the right time.

From the outset, the boys played with energy, discipline, and real purpose. Their organisation in both attack and defence was a huge improvement, allowing them to control the game and create scoring opportunities through teamwork rather than individual efforts.

On the scoreboard, Tommy led the way with two excellent tries, showing great pace and awareness. Cooper added another, capping off an all-action performance, while Louis also crossed the line to round off the scoring and secure a well-deserved win.

Cooper’s contribution went far beyond his try, with an outstanding work rate across the pitch. His determination and commitment set the tone for the team, inspiring those around him. Across the board, the boys showed tremendous bravery, repeatedly putting their bodies on the line and making some superb tackles to keep the opposition at bay.

It was a performance full of heart, resilience, and teamwork everything you want to see at the end of a season. A brilliant way to finish, and a testament to how much this group has developed.

Well done, boys!