REVIEW OF 2013

2013: Another Successful and Memorable Year

On Friday Congleton High School’s bell rang for the last time in 2013 and that drew to a close an incredibly successful and memorable year for CHS’ PE department.

Stand-Out Moments of 2013

Over the past 12 months I have covered and seen many great things but my most memorable moment has to be going to Anfield (which is very hard to say with me being a big Everton fan) and witnessing the under 15 girls being crowned Premier League champions in May. I never expected the girls’ to win and nor did the girls but they played very well and thoroughly deserved the title of ‘Premier League Champions’. Since they were crowned champions the girls have experienced lots of different things including being featured on Match of the Day Kickabout, sitting in the VIP seats at Wembley to see England play and they even got to parade their trophy to the Stoke fans at the Britannia. So I think it is fair to say 2013 is not going to be a year that these girls or the school are going forget quickly!

The one thing in 2013 which I know many at CHS would say is their favourite moment of the year was the recent Tour of Malta which saw CHS’ football and netball teams change from a UK storm to 30 degree heat. However, the lovely weather isn’t the only reason why many would choose the tour as their most memorable moment as the students endured a whole new life experience and on their return there was a certain ‘buzz’ around the school which to me demonstrates just how much all the students enjoyed it. Mrs Salt, Head of PE, perfectly summarised why Malta was so memorable “The Tour of Malta was a real hit with students with some fantastic results and sporting moments along with some really funny stories both on and off the pitch.  This has been demonstrated since they have returned to school as there has been quite a buzz around the school.”

Other Highlights

2013 saw CHS lift three league titles plus a cup along with the Premier League title. What stood out to me was how CHS battled on despite whatever the British weather threw at them, which some schools’ didn’t do. The under 15 girls and the year 10 boys are still going strong in the national cup and are into the latter rounds of the competition something both teams want to continue in 2014.

More success in 2013 came in Netball when CHS were triple South Cheshire Champions with years 7, 8 and 10 victorious. Years 7 and 8 went on to do the double also winning their respective leagues.

In Athletics CHS became South Cheshire Athletic Champions for the 6^th time in 10 years after winning the junior, minor and inter competitions at the South Cheshire Athletic Championships. Let’s make it 7 in 11 years next year!

England’s cricketers may have bloomed in the summer Ashes series but wilted down under.  CHS’ All Star XI won their own version of the Ashes when they beat Haileybury College, who were on tour here from Australia. It’s always nice to get one over the Aussies!

In Rounders, Year 11 were South Cheshire runners up but year 8 went one better when they won the South Cheshire Rounder’s Championships.

2013 saw the interest in table tennis increase so much so the first whole school table tennis tournament was set up. Over 50 students signed up and played in the first round. But the final two standing were Mr de Souza and James Garside. Mr de Souza was crowned CHS’ table tennis champion after winning 11-8 and 12-10. The tournament returns after Christmas with even more competitors signed up this year and the competition will be fiercer with Mr de Souza hoping to retain his title. Will he do it?

2013 will be a year that many Brit’s remember as the year that Andy Murray was the first British male winner of Wimbledon in 77 years but 2013 will also be remembered as the year when year 7 and 8 girls won the South Cheshire Tennis Championships.

Like every year, 2013’s Sports Day was a huge success with 15 records being broken.

CHS’ 6th annual Sports Awards Evening saw Nathan Stirk win the The Lynda Arnold Award, for outstanding contribution to school sport throughout his time at CHS. The Daniel Sturridge Rising Star Award went to Manchester United and England Under 15 midfielder Hollie Massey who has been a permanent member in the national squad this year. The under 15 girls won the Team of the Year following there Premier League triumph. In attendance was Manchester United footballer, Nick Powell, who presented some of the awards and did a question and answer session which included advising students on how to juggle school work and sporting activities. It also gave students and guests an insight into his journey as a footballer. 

2014 is going to have to be very good if it is going to be as successful and memorable as 2013 but I have every faith in the PE department and the students that it will. For updates in 2014 keep checking the sports blog for match reports, interviews and articles and follow @PhysEdCHS for news and results straight from the PE department.

All that is left for to me to say is I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  

Written by Adam Bailey



YEAR 9 FUTSAL- 17th December

Year 9 Futsal Tournament

Tonight (Tuesday 17^th December) the year 9 forms competed in a whole year futsal tournament. It was hosted/organised by Sixth Form students and the well organised event was a real success.

Like any inter-tutor tournament the competition was fierce. The tournament consisted of flair, skills and the odd comedy moment or two!

GDS 0-0 AB- Neither team could break the deadlock with Bradley Oliver’s thunderbolt shot needing the safe hands from the GDS goalkeeper’s to keep the only real chance from going in.

FWJ 0-2 TP- Amy Rodgers fired TP in front from close range. Then James Reed doubled TP’s lead after a surging run down the left before finishing it with a cool shot between the FWJ goalkeeper and the near post.

LJF 1-0 GDS- LJF’s goalkeeper scored the only goal of the game, which reminded me of Begovic’s goal against Southampton, although there was no wind assistance his goal kick  beat the players from both sides before catching the GDS goalkeeper out. GDS’ Evan Corless then rattled the post from close range.

AB 2-0 FWJ- AB took the lead through Ramtin Musah. His initial shot was cleared off the line with the FWJ goalkeeper rooted to the spot. However, Ramtin showed off his ‘teckers’ with an Imbravoic style back-heel which put the ball into the back of the net. Ramtin then added his and AB’s second with a powerful strike.

TP 5-0 LJF- TP took an early lead after Morgan Harop’s looping header beat the LJF goalkeeper. James Reed then quickly doubled their lead after LJF goalkeeper’s sliding tackle was avoided by Reed who put the ball into the net. Amy Rodger’s ensured that LJW couldn’t get back into the game when the LJW goalkeeper could not get to her powerful shot for TP’s third. Morgan Harop then extended TP’s lead further before Hollie Massey completed the rout with TP’s fifth.

GDS 3–0 FWJ- Moments after missing a real chance GDS’ Evan Corless played in Ben Oakley who scored from close range. Oakley then claimed the ball off Max Hill’s goal kick and after a few-kick ups to keep the ball alive on the twist he volleyed the ball home. Evan Corless then made it 3 for GDS.

TP 1-0 AB- After Jake Rowley’s pass back to AB’s goalkeeper was not dealt with by Johnny Adderley, the goalkeeper, Morgan Harop fought with AB’s Bradley Oliver but it was Harop who managed to put the ball across the line, somehow!

LJF 2-0 FWJ- The LJF forward beat the FWJ defender to the ball before prodding it past the FWJ keeper. Lee French then doubled LJF’s lead.

TP 0-1 GDS- Evan Corless scored the only goal of the game which saw GDS win with his half-volley from close range. Max Hill was solid in net and didn’t allow any of TP’s shots to get past him.

AB 2-0 LJF- Jake Rowley, AB’s goalkeeper, then did the exact same that LJF did to GDS scoring from the goal kick with the LJF keeper knowing nothing about it, as I don’t think he expected it! James Holland then added another for AB with a close range rebound.

Tie Break- After the round robin matches, both GDS and AB finished on 7 points which meant a tie-break was played to decide who would meet TP in the final and what better way to decide then a sudden-death penalty shoot-out. The hearts were pounding. First up was Ben Oakley for GDS who smashed the ball into the top of the net, Bradley Oliver did the same for AB. Ramtin Musah then saved GDS’ second attempt which meant that Jake Rowley stepped up knowing that if he scored he would see his side through to the final and Rowley did successfully convert the penalty.

Grand Final- It was a close fought conclusion of the tournament with both teams having chances to take the lead but it was TP who clinched the winner in the dying minutes thanks to James Reed. His screamer was dropped into the net by AB’s goalkeeper, Ramtin Musah. The final score was TP 1-0 AB.

Team of the Tournament- I was impressed by all the teams competing and what was really pleasing was seeing so many girl’s taking part but if I had to choose a ‘Team of the Tournament’ it would have to be TP. Not only because they were winners but because they played the most attractive football throughout the competition. With the whole team linking up well in a pleasant passing style as well as nearly the whole team adding a goal or two.

Written by Adam Bailey

ESFA PLAYSTATION SCHOOLS' CUP- CUP HOPES STILL GOING STRONG

Under 15 Girls and Year 10 Boys Still Going Strong in Cup

This week saw the next round of the ESFA cup with both the under 15 girls and the year 10 boys hoping to continue their cup run with only a few rounds left until the final.

On Monday 9^th December the under 15 girls footballer’s travelled along the M60 and M62 to Mirfield Free Grammar School near Huddersfield in the ESFA Playstation Cup. It is already a massive achievement in getting into the last 32 in the country but CHS were hoping for a place in the last 16.

CHS have been scoring for fun in the competition with 16 goals in just 3 matches and only conceding 2 in the process. But Mirfield were going to have to be respected scoring 10 goals in 3 games conceding only 2 also.

It was CHS’ two Premier League club footballer’s who made the difference as within half-an-hour, Everton midfielder Amy Rodger’s put CHS 2-0 up thanks to her brace. Before, Mirfield pulled one back but England and Manchester United Midfielder Hollie Massey restored CHS’ two goal lead before the break.

Rodgers ensured she would be taking the match ball back to CHS after securing her hatrick, straight from the kick-off for the second half.  Mirfield then shortened CHS’ lead but Massey ensured that a late comeback wasn’t on the cards, when she made it 5-2 which secured CHS’ place in the last 16.

CHS will now face either Hayfield School (Doncaster) or South Hansley High School (East Riding) in the last 16 in a fifth straight away tie and are yet to play at home. However, who needs home advantage when you are Premier League School Champions!

The other cup hope for CHS are the year 10 boys, under Mr Donnelly, who travelled to Eckington School in Derbyshire on Friday. At half-time the scores were level at 1-1 with George Archer scoring for CHS. CHS found themselves trailing 2-1 soon after the break but a spirited comeback with goals from Morgan Bratt and Matt Gillham sealed CHS’ place in the next round, where Range High School from Sefton will travel to CHS.

We wish both teams all the best in the next round.

Written by Adam Bailey

RUGBY (WEEK 2)- 4th December

CHS Victorious Again in Second Double Header

Last week the year 7 and 8 rugby team’s returned from Woodhouse School, three weeks after both years comfortably beat the school from Biddulph, with another two emphatic wins.

Both years were hoping for a repeat of the first double-header which saw year 7 win 11 tries to 1 and year 8 winning 17-5.

 

After a few training sessions in between the games the boys were raring to go and this certainly showed in the scorelines at the end of both matches, with neither CHS team conceding one try.

Adam Smith writes- "On the 4^th of December, Congleton High School played Woodhouse Middle School in rugby. Congleton (year 7) beat Woodhouse 35-0. Tom Vale captained the team with Harper scoring 3 tries, Adam 2 tries, Elliot 1 try and Tom Vale 1 try. It was a great game, everyone tried their hardest. It was a well deserved victory for Congleton".

The final results

Year 7 won 35-0

Year 8 won 29-0

Written by Adam Bailey and Adam Smith

ESFA PLAYSTATION SCHOOLS' CUP- Round 4

Year 10 Boys and Under 15 Girls Progress in Style

The cup hopes of the school were left on the year 10 boys and the under 15 girls this week when they were the only two football teams from CHS still in the ESFA Playstation Schools’ Cup.

First it was the under 15 girls who went head-to-head with Wade Deacon High School on Monday afternoon. The girls have been outstanding in the previous rounds scoring 12 goals (10 of those in the last round against Urmston Grammar) whilst not conceding a single goal. This was going to be one of CHS’ toughest tests due to the game being played on a 3G surface something CHS weren’t used to. CHS went into the break leading 2-1 thanks to goals from Zoe Tweats and Lucy Wright. However, the CHS defence wouldn’t be recording a clean sheet for the first time in the cup. Lucy Wright then added her second goal of the game and Amy Rodgers then added Congleton’s fourth. The final score ended 4-2 to CHS which see’s them progress into the last 16 in the country. CHS sustained a few injuries in the match but I haven’t heard how serious they are and the team are hoping they will be back in time for the tie away at Mirfield Free Grammar School in the next round.

Tonight (Thursday 28^th November) the year 10 football team were hoping to keep their cup dream’s alive against Charlton School in the last 64 in the country. CHS produced a 5-star performance which saw them emphatic 5-0 victors. Morgan Bratt and Conor Docherty gave CHS a 2-0 lead at half time. Goals after the break from Marcus Chadwick and a brace from Matt Gilham, who returned to the side, sealed the 5-0 victory and a place in the last 32 in the country. They will now play at either Eckington School or Failbroome Academy with the prize a place nearer the final.

We wish both teams all the best ahead of those huge games.

Written by Adam Bailey

FOOTBALL- YEAR 10 (20th November)

Dominant Year 10 Progress After a Solid Win

This week sees a tough week for the year 10 football team, yesterday they needed penalties to progress in the national cup which has set up a tie against Charlton School on Friday with the prize a place in the last 32 in the country. Before this the side went head to head with Tytherington in the Cheshire Cup tonight (Wednesday 20^th November).

Mr Donnelly, who would win the award for the best dressed manager, looked very professional in his overcoat. Before the match he addressed the team and told them that the pressure was off them so “go out and enjoy yourselves, you have worked very hard. I know you must be tired and we have got a few niggles. This game is all about making sure we are in the best shape ready for Friday”.

The opening few minutes were encouraging with CHS releasing the ball from defence to attack quickly and effectively which the Tytherington defence couldn’t deal with. This created a chance for CHS but Tytherington’s goalkeeper beat Conor Docherty to the ball and moments later he claimed a header from Marcus.

At halftime, Mr Donnelly was left wondering how the score was still 0-0 with CHS having a number of chances to steal the lead. CHS looked very promising in the first half playing some nice and tidy football from defence to attack with the two central midfielders extremely effective.  

It wasn’t long after half-time, in fact only a minute, when Mr Donnelly saw his team deservedly lead, after Marcus’ initial shot was blocked by the keeper before Reece Carbutt was on hand to power home the rebound from 8 yards out and even if the keeper was near it, he would have had no chance of stopping it. 1-0 CHS. Only a few minutes later CHS were 2-0 up after a cleared corner fell to George Archer whose strike from outside the area flew through a group of legs in the box and although the keeper got his fingers to it he could not turn the ball around the post. 2-0 CHS. Tytherington pulled one back which only turned out to be a consolation. Asked whether Mr Donnelly felt any nerves at this point he replied “no”. Reece Carbutt soon restored CHS’ two goal lead with his second of the game with an unbelievable effort. From 25 yards his shot travelled like a rocket giving the Tytherington goalkeeper no chance. 3-1 CHS. CHS extended their lead further with a great individual goal from Conor Docherty. After picking up the ball from a CHS throw-in Docherty danced around the Tytherington defenders before cutting in and firing home over the goalkeeper from an acute angle. This goal concluded a solid win and performance by CHS’ year 10 who were dominant in every area of the pitch. Now their attention turns to Friday’s ESFA Playstation Schools’ Cup.

Written by Adam Bailey

 

FOOTBALL: ESFA PLAYSTATION SCHOOL'S CUP- ROUND 3

Girls and Year 10 CHS’ Only Cup Glory Hope

Over the last two weeks, CHS’ footballers have been battling it out in the ESFA Playstation Schools’ Cup. The teams were hoping that the hard work on the training ground in Malta would help them progress to the next round.

Year 10 are through to round 4 of the cup after a penalty shootout victory against Madley High School 5-4 after it finishing 2-2 after extra time. Going into the last penalty, Madley knew that if they scored it then they would put CHS into sudden death, who had already successfully converted all their penalties, but the Madley penalty taker was looking up to the sky as he saw his penalty float over the cross-bar, much to CHS’ delight. Year 10 now travel to Charlton School with the prize a place in the final 32 in the country.
 

CHS’ under 15 girls continued to show why they were crowned Premier League Champions in May when they performed outstandingly against Urmston Grammar in a remarkable 10-0 win away from home. An Amy Rodger’s brace and an Emma Nisbit goal plus an own goal saw CHS go into the break 4-0 up and even Jose Mourinho wouldn’t have been able to turn that deficit around. CHS cantered forward after the break which saw Paige Tingle score four plus a goal from Lucy Wright and another from Emma Nisbit. They just keep scoring for fun! CHS now travel to Wade Deacon High School in the last 32 in the country.

Year 11 narrowly lost to Canon Slade in the 3^rd round when they travelled to Bolton last Friday. CHS led 2-0 at half-time thanks to a goal from Max Berekley and a stunning strike from Captain Lewis Dunn, which Mr Cross described as a “worldee” and it certainly was from an acute angle from outside the box he curled it behind the Canon Slade goalkeeper. Whether it was a shot or a cross is another question! CHS had a number of chances to put the game beyond Canon Slade but couldn’t capitalise on a pitch which was awful to play on. Brian Barton missed a sitter when 1 on 1 with the keeper, when he put the ball wide of an open net. The game finished 3-2 which saw Mr Cross’ side bow out of the cup.  
 

The year 8’s travelled to Chorlton High School but Mr de Souza unfortunately saw his team lose 6-0 although the score line definitely didn’t reflect the game as CHS played well. However, Chorlton had some outstanding players at academy level who made a huge difference. Mr de Souza praised Finnley Jackson who was “superb in centre midfield”, but CHS could not match the strength Chorlton had all over the pitch. 

 

After a great start to high school football year 7 suffered their first major stumble last week when they lost 5-1 to Bishop Heber High School, which saw CHS knocked out of the cup.

Written by Adam Bailey

  

MR CROSS INTERVIEW- Tour of Malta, Year 11 and PE's Nomination

Mr Cross Interview

I was lucky enough to speak to Mr Cross, a member of the successful PE Department at CHS, about the recent Tour of Malta where he saw his year 11 football team win one and lose one. We also spoke about the year 11’s season so far and the PE departments nomination for a Cheshire East Sports Award.

Tour of Malta

Mr Cross managed the senior side, which he described as a “strong team”, on the recent Tour of Malta and saw his team get off to a great start with a victory in the opening match. He said that “it was nice to set the tour off with a nice foot in and it also gave the other teams especially the younger teams something to build on”.

Things looked even better half-way through the second half of the second match with the senior side 3-1 up against a professional football academy and asked if he was surprised he replied “when we were 3-1 up it was nothing short of something which would be seen in a school of excellence or a professional academy in this country. The football academy were tidy footballers and were a year older than the CHS senior side but Year 11 are made up of talented individual footballers and as a group are very strong with the attacking pair of Matt Gilham and Brian Barton” something which Mr Cross thinks will be “the strongest pairing that the senior side has seen for a very, very long time”. Some people would say that the heat was a factor in CHS eventually losing the match something which Mr Cross dismissed and he saw it as a “benefit” as it suited “the intensity in which the team play with”- something which is installed to every team in CHS. He said that a “lack of concentration” was the factor.  Adapting to the climate was a “challenge” but one which CHS “rose too” as although “the heat was difficult, the players kept themselves well hydrated and the sunny weather suited CHS which was one of the reasons why we chose Malta. “

Mr Cross said that the tour “galvanised” the team, which has shown in the improved performances since returning.

Year 11

Mr Cross only took charge of the year 11 side in September but just over two months into the job and he has made a lot of changes. Year 11 have changed from a “straight-forward 4-4-2 formation, relying on the impact players too heavily” to “playing players in the right position and being able to break down the opposition as well as going forward when we need to”. However, this has not been easy as Mr Cross has had a “headache” (and not just from noisy students) but a selection one with players having to “play out of position” due to their previous manager playing “a set way with set positions”. He is “immensely proud” of the students’ “willingness to adapt to a new style of play” and regards them as the “best footballers in their age group in the local area”.

Nomination For Cheshire Sports Award

Congleton High School’s PE department has been shortlisted as a finalist in the School of the Year category for the Cheshire East Sports Awards and Mr Cross is very proud to see something which he has been a part of and helped grow be nominated for the award. The PE department “work their socks off” (quite literally) and have a “shared vision” which Mr Cross describes as “infectious”. The hard work has paid off with the “girls football from last year going from strength to strength, boy’s football has improved” and rugby has seen a promising start with “one win from one game in two age groups”.

Written by Adam Bailey. With thanks to Mr Cross.

RUGBY WEEK 1- 13th November

Year 7’s Thrash Woodhouse in Opening Game

Tonight (13^th November) Congleton High School’s year 7’s played a rugby match against Woodhouse Middle School. Congleton started off with a strong start Harper Whitehead scoring the first try of the game by weaving through the opposition until he reached the try line. The Congleton team were dominating with their skilful running and passing. By the end of the first half Congleton were in the lead 6 tries to 0. The tries scored by Harper Whitehead, Tom Vale (the captain), Owen Lees, Michal Howell and Josh Clues.

In the second half Woodhouse stormed through the Congleton defence to score. A great display of organisation scored them their first try. As the game continued Congleton maintained their lead mostly due to their intense running skills and evasiveness; plus their ball handling and line play. Towards the end of the competitive game Woodhouse made a final attempt to penetrate Congleton’s defence but couldn’t make it to the line before the end of the game. The final score was 11 tries to 1. Well done to the whole team!!!           

Written by Tom Vale (Year 7 Captain)

Year 8 Also Win Comfortably

Although the year 8’s may not have won by as big a margin they also recorded a comfortable 17-5 win over Woodhouse with a great performance to match.

Written by Adam Bailey

PE DEPARTMENT NOMINATED FOR AWARD

PE Department Nominated for Award

I am delighted to announce that CHS’ PE department has been short listed as a finalist in the School of the Year category for the Cheshire East Sports Awards.

The PE department thoroughly deserve this nomination as I know first-hand that they work incredibly hard along with the students both on and off the court/pitch.

The hard work has been shown throughout the year and this was highlighted on the recent Tour of Malta together with an outstanding turnout in a range of sports over the past 12 months. All of the hard work has paid off as the department has seen an extremely successful year with silverware in most sports and a remarkable victory which saw the under 14 girls crowned Premier League Champions.

The PE department will be changing their sport kits and trainers for tuxedo’s and ball gowns when they attend the Cheshire East Sports Awards at Cranage Hall later this month.  

I hope to interview the PE department in the next week with their reaction to the nomination so keep checking the blog.

Written by Adam Bailey

ESFA PLAYSTATION SCHOOLS' CUP

ESFA Playstation Schools’ Cup

Last week and this week has seen CHS’ footballers battle it out in the ESFA Playstation Schools’ Cup. The teams were hoping that the hard work on the training ground in Malta would help them progress to the next round.

The year 8’s travelled to Chorlton High School but Mr de Souza unfortunately saw his team lose 6-0 although the score line definitely didn’t reflect the game as CHS played well. However, Chorlton had some outstanding players at academy level who made a huge difference. Mr de Souza praised Finley Jackson who was “superb in centre midfield”, but CHS could not match the strength Chorlton had all over the pitch. 

After a great start to high school football year 8 suffered their first major stumble last week when they lost 5-1 to Bishop Heber High School, which saw CHS knocked out of the cup.

However, CHS’ under 15 girls continued to show why they were crowned Premier League Champions in May when they performed outstandingly against Urmston Grammar in a remarkable 10-0 win away from home. An Amy Rodger’s brace and an Emma Nisbit goal plus an own goal saw CHS go into the break 4-0 up and even Jose Mourinho wouldn’t have been able to turn that deficit around. CHS cantered forward after the break which saw Paige Tingle score four plus a goal from Lucy Wright and another from Emma Nisbit. They just keep scoring for fun!

Year 10 are still to play Madeley High School, after beating Lymm High School 6-3 in the last round whilst year 11 will go head to head with Canon Slade on Friday, thanks to a penalty shootout win over St Monica’s in Bury. So good luck to those two teams and there will be match reports plus reaction from the games later this week.

Written by Adam Bailey

BASKETBALL GAMEWEEK 1- 8th November

CHS’ Basketball Team Begin Their Season

The NBA season started last week and CHS’ basketball team began their season tonight (Friday 8^th November) at home to King’s School, a team which they beat 38:21 last year.

Morale was high in the CHS team with coach Mr Hermitt hoping for a win from his side, which contained both experienced and inexperienced players, although he was unsure which King’s team would turn up as first time the two teams met last season saw CHS finish as victors whereas second time Mr Hermitt saw his side lose. Mr Hermitt said that the key if CHS were going to come out on top would be teamwork.

CHS’ first reaction was that Kings looked a lot taller and physical with Kings’ smallest player as tall as CHS’ tallest. Despite lacking in height and physicality CHS looked the more organised and well drilled side in the opening minutes which led to CHS putting the first points on the scoreboard following a well worked CHS throw. CHS were unlucky not to extend their lead further after Tom Spender’s shot rebounded off the backboard into captain Matt Finley’s hand’s but his rebound hit the rim before Owen Gough’s shot did the same. Spender did extend CHS’ lead but it was cut back after two free throws from Kings. Despite Finley scoring two baskets with the first a layup after a well worked move and the second being scored from a low position whilst being sandwiched between two defenders. King’s had the advantage after the first quarter following a free-throw, 3-pointer and a basket 4 seconds before the end of the quarter which gave Kings a 16:8 lead over CHS at the interval.  

CHS failed to shorten Kings’ lead in fact they saw it grow as despite Jay McAleer scoring two baskets Kings extended their lead to 9 points. Kings’ still had the advantage after the 1^st half leading CHS 21:12.

It took CHS until the opening minutes of the 3^rd quarter to win their first free throw despite Kings having several, following captain Finley’s drive. Finley himself stood on the free throw line with only the air in front of him and the basket. He was unfortunate not to see his first throw fall instead seeing it roll around the rim. Finley didn’t let the 2^nd one do the same as it went swish. CHS managed to keep the deficit the same, 9 points, after the 3^rd quarter with Kings leading 26:17 with one quarter left.

I spoke to CHS captain Matt Finley in the interval between the 3^rd and 4^th quarter about what he thought his team should do to get any chance of getting anything out of the game, “we are only 9 points down, that is only three 3-pointers. But we need to stay strong in defence and keep their best player out of the game”, something CHS introduced in the 2^nd part of the 3^rd quarter and appeared to work.

However, this did not stop him scoring two 2-pointers in the opening minutes of the final quarter. When Kings began to look weary in the final parts of the 4^th quarter, CHS did not, mainly down to well worked tactical substitution by Mr Hermitt. CHS were not going to give up without a fight this was shown in a great counter attacking drive from Bibo Webb, from deep inside CHS’ half, with him finishing his move off with a perfect layup. Luck wasn’t on CHS’ side when Webb’s 3-point attempt bounced up after hitting the rim and CHS could not convert the rebound.

The game finished 21:30 to Kings but CHS can take a lot of positives from the game but need to improve in areas as well. Nothing can deny their effort though.

Written by Adam Bailey

TOUR OF MALTA: FOOTBALL (Updated)

Tour of Malta: Football

As Britain prepared and faced their largest storm in a decade CHS’ footballers enjoyed a successful tour of Malta in 30 degree heat. 

Although Malta is not one of the world’s most recognised when it comes to football (perhaps one of the least) but they have recorded notable victories over several big teams who have reached the final phases in World Cups  such as Belgium, Hungary, and Greece. Plus Malta has recently invested in the development of football on the island with a large number of football grounds being built throughout the island. This makes it a very good place to tour. England have played Malta three times and have a 100% record. CHS were hoping to enjoy Malta as much as the England national side do.

Year 8

In the first game against Tornado's FC, the year 8's had to adapt to the 30 degree heat in the afternoon. The team went into their very professional changing room with a TV, massage table, refreshments and fantastic showering facilities (shower gels and shampoo included). Mr de Souza gave them a motivational team talk explaining that this is maybe the only time in their lives they will get an opportunity to play on such great facilities in another country against foreign opposition.

The match was going to be played in 20 min thirds due to the hot weather, Elliot Darmon passed a late fitness test on his injured groin from the training session earlier that day and made the starting XI. It was a strong starting line up, with Ewan Ling debutising at right back and the team playing a new 4-2-3-1 formation. In the first 20 the team played some good football, passing the ball around midfield and strong in defence with captain for the game Fin Jackson playing at centre back. The third finished 0-0 with CHS getting into great positions but George Johnson, Josh Brindley and Elliot Darmon all very often getting caught offside by the Maltese teams high defensive line.

During the break Elliot's groin injury flared up and he had to come off for another debut for rugby convert Tomasz McNulty. Mr de Souza demanded his team stepped up their game and gave them a quick crash course on how to beat a high defensive line. He also shouted over to Mr Donnelly to get the year 11 team to cheer on the youngsters.

Almost immediately the crowd led by Brian Barton, Lewis Dunn, Sam Lynn and Sam Spooner were chanting the names of individual player and also Mr de Souza. This inspired an amazing 20 minutes for the year 8's with them scoring 6 goals. Including a couple of wonder strikes from Fin Noakes (who has sadly left CHS) and George Johnson.

The game finished 8-0. With 5 goals from George Johnson and the rest from Fin Noakes, Fin Jackson, and Josh Brindley. Man of the match was George Johnson, not only for his 5 goals but he also offered to be the linesman for the year 11 fixture where he overruled the Maltese referee on two occasions.

In the second game, against the Maltese capital side Valletta FC. The year 8's were up first out of the three teams. Mr de Souza stuck to his 4-2-3-1 tactic with centre back Ali Abbid captaining the side. The team again did not score in the first 20 minutes as they weighed up their opposition. Fin Jackson was moved into midfield which made a massive impact. The Byram twins worked superbly in defensive midfield, putting out any danger that came their way, it was like they knew each other’s game inside out! Sam Beech also had a great tour making some fantastic tackles from centre back especially as it was his first two games for CHS. The game finished 7-1 with hat-tricks from George Johnson and his Hanson lookalike Fin Jackson and a poacher’s goal from Josh Brindley. They went back to the changing room to a massive LOVE IT sing song before going out to cheer on the other older teams.

The tour was an amazing success for the year 8's especially as it was the first time away from their parents or carers. There were some fantastic individual displays from the boys with Josh Robertson only conceding one goal on the tour and making lots of amazing saves. Rory Hughes made some strong tackles from left back, Ewan Ling had a superb game against Valletta FC pushing for a starting place in the school team. Overall the boys have grown up and matured over the space of the week, they have made some new lifelong friends and represented the school with pride.

Year 9/10

The year 9/10 won their first game 1-0 but could have easily have been many more. The goal came through super sub Joe Allen and Morgan Buckley put in a man of the match performance. 

Their second match saw them narrowly lose 4-3, in a very tight game. Morgan Bratt scored a brace CHS were then knocking on the door for another goal and it was George Archer who gave CHS their third goal with a header. Unfortunately, Morgan Buckley took one for the team and broke his collar bone late on in the game. 

Year 11

Year 11’s first game kicked off at 8pm which meant it was cooler and bearable playing conditions compared to their second match starting in the midday sun. The game felt like a European fixture and Year 11 came out victors.

Their second game kicked off at 12:45pm which meant that the conditions were rather challenging. Year 11 battled on through the early afternoon rays and led 3-1 going into the final quarter. This raised a few eyebrow’s considering their opposition was a professional football academy. As the heat and sun started to take a toll CHS became weary which is understandable in the conditions. CHS changed to a 4-5-1 formation to try and boss the midfield but despite still working hard and giving it their all they could not hold onto their lead and in the end unfortunately lost.

Written by Adam Bailey. Courtesy of Mr de Souza, Mr French and Brian Barton.

GIRLS CONTINUE TO GIVE BOYS A RUN FOR THEIR MONEY- 6th November

Girls Continue to Give Boys a Run for their Money

CHS’ girls were back in action on the football pitch at Congleton High School tonight (Wednesday 6^th November) and the under 14 girls were hoping to continue the girls dominance when they took on All Hallows following the under 15 girls 2-0 victory before half-term.

The under 14’s were very impressive in a comprehensive 8-0 victory. The girls could even relax a little in the second half due to their dominance but still they stayed tight and focused and didn’t let All Hallows score a single goal. A fantastic performance and result for the under 14 girls.

Remember to follow @PhysEdCHS for news and fixtures straight from the PE department.

Written by Adam Bailey

ANOTHER DAY TO REMEMBER FOR UNDER 14 GIRLS- 2nd November

Another Day to Remember for Under 14 Girls

Following CHS’ under 14 girls remarkable triumph last May they have appeared on Match of the Day Kickabout, been invited to and watched England take on Moldova in a World Cup qualifier in September and now they have paraded their winning trophy in front of 25,000 people.

It wasn’t an open top bus but still this time last year playing at Anfield never mind becoming premier league champions was just a distant dream.  However, on Saturday they gave Stoke fans a sight they may not see again (sorry Stoke fans but it is true), the premier league trophy on the pitch at the Britannia when the winning squad paraded the trophy around the stadium. They also watched the game and they didn’t have to wait long after taking their seats, to see the opening goal. In fact only 13 seconds when Asmir Begovic became only the 5^th Premier League goalkeeper to score. After seeing Begovic score I am sure CHS goalkeeper Lydia Bennett will take tips from both Begovic and the wind and will want to get on the scoresheet herself! The match ended 1-1 and I am sure a few of the girls as well as one or two of the staff would have liked to see Stoke City claim all three points.

One thing’s for sure it is another day to remember for the under 14 girls team something that is becoming a normality for the victorious squad.

Some of the girls have stepped up to the next age group but they are still playing like Premier League champions and have already made a great start to their new campaign with a 2-0 victory in their opening match but it could have easily been eight! This has given the under 15 side a solid building block for the rest of the season.

Written by Adam Bailey

TOUR OF MALTA: LIFE ON TOUR

Tour of Malta: Life on Tour

“The Tour of Malta has been a real hit with students with some fantastic results and sporting moments along with some really funny stories both on and off the pitch.  This has been demonstrated since they have returned to school as there has been quite a buzz around the school.” - Mrs Salt, Head of PE

Mrs Salt added “one of the best things about going on tour is the new friendships that are built between students in different year groups. Students who had never spoken to each other before worked together and supported each other. They now have something in common and are likely to smile and acknowledge each other again remembering something about that time they were on tour in Malta. That works for the staff too. Yesterday a year 11 student stopped me to say hello and ask how I was after the tour who had never spoken to me prior to Malta. I even got a smile out of a student who I have never seen smile on the corridor today and Jake Rowley (Y9) followed me down the corridor singing one of our Malta songs.”
 

Of course like any sporting team it is important to get the right balance on tour between an intense training regime as well as more importantly giving the players time to relax and enjoy themselves. This tour was no expectation despite an intense training schedule CHS found time to visit the bowling alley for a quiet, uncompetitive game of bowling.  This was far from the case with it definitely not being quiet or uncompetitive but it was the staff who stole the limelight with Mr de Souza bossing the bowling alley with an outstanding score of 168 which included a number of strikes. The staff continued as they ‘bossed’ the karaoke and disco night.  If the teachers have learnt one thing from the trip it will be to stick to teaching and not start a new career as a singer or dancer, as I have heard that a number of windows were smashed especially during Mr De Souza’s and Mr Cross’ songs. Mr French said that he doubts “that the Hotel Topaz will be graced with anyone my size doing the worm for quite a while!”

One thing’s for sure this has been a tour to remember and nothing could deny the students commitment and passion to playing and supporting each other.  
 

Written by Adam Bailey. Courtesy of Mrs Salt, Mr de Souza, Mr French and Miss Fernihough.

  

TOUR OF MALTA: NETBALL

Tour of Malta: Netball

 

The under 14 netball team of 10 players left the UK storm behind them and travelled to the 30 degree heat of Malta. The squad initially found training for 90 minutes in the heat very difficult. However, armed with plenty of water and sun cream the girls prepared well for their fixtures. Their first game was against a club side called Netball Fundamentals who were slightly older than CHS.

 In the first quarter the game was tight and going with the centre pass CHS finished the quarter losing 5-4. Coach Mrs Salt said “I knew the girls were capable of a stronger performance and with a few tactical changes to positions such as moving Helena Cresswell to play Goal Keeper we could dominate the game”. This looked like the inspiration CHS needed as they then dominated the rest of the game finishing with a convincing 18-7 win. Mrs Salt added “The atmosphere and support at the netball match was amazing as the boys football teams came to watch cheering for both teams when they scored and with a range of songs to support as well. The girls really enjoyed the match and so did the spectators. The coach of the opposition did laugh and say about Mr Cross, Mr De Souza and Mr French 'are they your staff, they are worse than the students!' Plenty of fun had by all I think.”

The second game was against a convent school called Immaculate Conception. We totally out played the opposition winning 35-1 and Mrs Salt even played four girls out of position to try and make the game more even! 

 Some of the netball awards from the end of tour awards-

• Most Valuable Player - Rebecca Barlow
• Best defender - Helena Cresswell
• The 'work horse' for non stop running and coverage of the court - Charlotte Stanley.
 

Written by Adam Bailey. Courtesy of Mrs Salt

PREVIEW: OCTOBER-DECEMBER HALF-TERM

Preview to Next Half-Term (October to December)

This half-term sees the beginning of the basketball and rugby season alongside the hockey season continuing.

Basketball

This time last year the high interest in basketball led to the creation of CHS’ basketball team. CHS started the season well but suffered their first defeat of their season after back to back wins. CHS begin their season on Friday 8^th November at home to King’s School a team which they beat 38:21 last season. There are high expectations for the basketball side this season.

Rugby

After the announcement before half-term by the RFU regarding the participation of state schools in rugby union I am pleased to say that CHS is one of the 750 state schools who play rugby competitively in the UK and in recent years they have been successful. Including last year where Year 7 and Year 10 won the Cheshire Inter School Championships. Can they do the same this year? The PE department certainly hope so and if they continue where they left off last year than I can see why they are so confident.

Hockey

CHS will hoping for more results like the opening day of the hockey season, this half-term and I am sure that if they continue to play like they did last half-term then CHS will come out on top more often.

One thing’s for sure we are in for another action-packed and potentially successful half-term before we break for Christmas.

Written by Adam Bailey

 

REVIEW: SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER HALF-TERM

Review: September – October Half-Term

Last week brought a close to the first half-term of the year with good results and performances needed in the opening half-term to create a solid building block for the rest of the year. Here is a round-up of what has happened over the last 6 weeks.

Football

Year 7 have already created a great impression after a solid start to the season in both the league and cup. The PE department are expecting big things from the youngest year.

After year 8 were held 2-2 on the opening day of their season they have since been back on the winning ways they showed throughout last season, including a 7-0 victory over Shavington.

Year 9 or the “Year 9 Dream Team” as manager Mr French called them after he saw his side come out as emphatic victors in an 8-2 win over Alsager have started brilliantly with two great wins with notable performances by Evan Corless, Brad Oliver and Jake Rowley.

Year 10, under experienced coach Mr Donnelly, have also started the season well including an inspired 6-2 win over Shavington after finding themselves 2-1 down at half-time.

Year 11 started life with new manager Mr Cross and after perhaps under achieving in the league and cup they are still going strong in the English League’s Cup after a penalty-shootout win before half-term. It has taken year 11 time to adapt to Mr Cross’ vision for the side but it seems to be paying off even when the results aren’t showing it with CHS dominating in matches and creating chances.

Following the remarkable achievement of the under-14’s becoming Premier League Champions last May it has inspired many girls to don their football boots. The under-15’s, which included several of the Premier League winning side, began their season last Friday with a 2-0 victory after a great performance from the girls. Could this team bring even more silverware to CHS’ trophy cabinet?

 Former student Daniel Sturridge helped England to qualify for next year’s World Cup in Brazil with two goals in their qualification campaign and will be hoping that he can be making headlines at next year’s World Cup. He isn’t the only past or present student representing England as year 9 student and Manchester United midfielder Hollie Massey has been selected for the England under-15’s squad to face Wales.

Hockey

Following a positive start to CHS’ hockey season which saw CHS return from playing Sandbach with two wins and a draw, they hit a stumbling block before half-term against Holmes Chapel with only year 11 getting anything from the matches with a 0-0 draw.

Netball

The Tuesday before half-term the year 11 netball team competed at the South Cheshire Netball Tournament and despite putting in a great performance and dealing with a spate of injuries CHS managed to reach the semi-finals and were inches short of reaching the final (quite literally)!

Year 9 have had a good start to the season despite a surprise defeat to Sandbach after they easily strode to victory in their first match but the girls came back in style with a fantastic 26-0 win over Holmes Chapel.

Other

There was a phenomenal turnout at the year 8 badminton and table tennis lunchtime club last week with over 56 students joining in both playing and officiating. We will need a bigger sports hall soon!

Half-Term Not Over Yet For Some

For some of the sports teams at CHS the first half-term has not finished yet as Wednesday saw the football and netball teams fly to Malta for a 5 day tour (I am very jealous!) All teams were very excited and what should be an extremely successful few days if there form from this half-term prevails. After half-term I will have a full round-up of all the results from Malta plus a player’s/coaches diary!

Written by Adam Bailey

FOOTBALL- PAST AND PRESENT REPRESENT ENGLAND

Past and Present Represent England

Former student Daniel Sturridge has helped England qualify for next year’s World Cup in Brazil after being heavily involved in the qualification campaign scoring 2 goals including coolly slotting home an injury time penalty in England’s comfortable 4-1 win against Montenegro last Friday. I am sure he is hoping to continue his fantastic start to the season as well as remaining fit so he can do his upmost to book his ticket on the flight to Rio! Everybody at CHS wishes him all the best for the rest of the season.

Year 9 student Hollie Massey has yet again been selected for the national side, in a select squad of 24, after impressing for her club, Manchester United. She will attend a 2 week training camp at St. George’s Park before taking on Wales. St George’s Park is fast becoming her second home! As a reward for the call-up she got to meet Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic where she received tips about playing football at the highest level, something that Massey is very capable of achieving. Hollie admitted she felt inspired to emulate the Old Trafford hero. “It was great meeting Vidic. He made us realise how important it is to make the most out of this opportunity and to put everything into it.” She is also very excited about pulling on the famous Three Lions shirt. We wish her all the best!

Written by Adam Bailey (Interview courtesy of Manchester United Foundation)

FOOTBALL- 15TH OCTOBER

Year 11 win their “Biggest Game of the Season” with a Superb Performance

England may have had a crucial match which they had to win tonight (Tuesday 15^th October) but year 11 had an even bigger one when they travelled to St. Monica’s, Bury in the English School’s Cup Round 3.

CHS came into the match after two consecutive defeats and they were determined not to make it 3. Max Berkeley put CHS in front from a superb Adam McHale cross.  CHS were unfortunate to see their lead disappear when St. Monica’s were given a penalty for a soft challenge from Captain Dunn who led from the front for the whole match and was superb throughout. St. Monica’s successfully converted the penalty and it wasn’t the last of the match! CHS restored their lead following powerful play from Brian Barton which led to the goalkeeper spilling his shot but George Hooper followed it up with a rebound from close range. 2-1 CHS. With 6 minutes remaining it looked like CHS had enough to see the game out but a good shot from an un-marked player at the back post struck the roof of Hallam Carslake’s net. 2-2. Undeservingly CHS were forced into extra-time. Strength in both body and character ensued so penalties were to decide the victor.

Carslake's outstanding save from St Monica's 'penalty taker' subdued the crowd to the delight of the travelling CHS faithful (Mr Cross). With CHS’ first 3 penalty takers scoring the match was in the hands of CHS’ 4^th penalty taker who unfortunately missed which set up sudden death. Next on the list was Danny Iyhoa who knew that if he scored it would see CHS through and if he didn’t well it is not worth thinking about! He stepped up to take CHS’ first penalty in sudden death with the whole of the school’s hopes on his shoulders, he scored and sent the team very deservedly through to the next round.

Mr Cross said “that the response from the year 11s was superb after 2 defeats. Their strength, technique, skill, decision making and determination were demonstrated to the full against a good St Monica's side. The system we discussed and implemented worked very well, all players adding their contribution to the game with such a strong focus on succeeding in this competition.  In some respects we have really under performed in other competitions such as the league and the Cheshire Cup, however this is the biggest competition in the country and we have played 2 good sides so far, winning both convincingly overall.”

The man of the match was awarded to Liam Evans for another commanding display in midfield, taking both the physical and technical game to the home team.

Written by Adam Bailey and Mr Cross (Crossinio)