Clockhouse Stumble at Final Hurdle

Last Wednesday Clockhouse went to the Netball Havering Cup Final as defending champions. Marshalls Park was the venue for a great afternoon of netball where Clockhouse met Oakfields Montessori.

Despite coming in as favourites on paper Oakfields came out the blocks firing and before Clockhouse were in the game they were already chasing a 5-0 deficit. Clockhouse who were not at their normal pace and fluency really struggled with the movement and tactical organisation of the Oakfield netballers.

After half time Clockhouse looked to be back on their game Ruby N making a big impact from the bench. As Clockhouse clicked they started to chase the game showing just why they were in the final for the third year in succession. As the game entered the final quarter Oakfields had a 13-6 lead but Clocks saved some of their best netball of the year for the final 8 minutes in the sporting calendar. The urgency to move the ball from one end of the court to the other in such a precise way was incredible to watch. Every Oakfields attack way nullified and Clockhouse then hit back on the scoreboard.

As the final whistle blew it was heartbreak for Clockhouse who lost narrowly.

Reflecting on the game Mr Yarrow said 'I am gutted for the squad tonight they came into the competition this years as champions and throughout every stage of competition they have conducted themselves as champions! Tonight wasn't our night we didn't switch on at the start and left too much to chase.

That being said I am so proud of this team, netball has gone from strength to strength in previous years and these children have been ever present in the Clockhouse netball success. We now know we have a big job next year to win that trophy back!'

Final Score Clockhouse 11 - 14 Oakfields

Squad: Beth C (c), Charlie B, Kayleigh M, Bobby I, Rachel C, Sophie L, Lily S-E and Ruby N

Scorers: Lily S-E x 6 and Sophie L x 5

Player of the Match: Ruby N