U18 Water Polo – ESSA Championship Semi-Finals
On Wednesday 26 February, the senior water polo team travelled to Northampton School for Boys to compete in the ESSA Championship semi-final. Spirits were high on the journey, despite missing Dan and Freddie but with the u15s having qualified the day prior and Mr Dixon hoping to carry on the good luck, we were confident after a focused team talk in our ability to secure a place in the finals. However, spotting some England players stepping off the St Ambrose coach was a reminder that the competition would be fierce.
Our first match was against the hosts, Northampton, a side we knew would be strong but beatable. Despite our best efforts, the early start and long journey seemed to take their toll, and we struggled to find our rhythm in the opening quarters. Northampton capitalised on this, and despite a determined fightback, we fell to a 4-2 defeat. While disappointed, the team remained optimistic—there was still plenty to play for, and we were eager for a potential rematch in the final.
With little time to recover, we were straight back in the water for our second match against St Ambrose. Having already played two full quarters, fatigue was a factor, but the boys dug deep, knowing how crucial this game was. Both teams were evenly matched, making for an intense and physical contest. KES remained composed under pressure, showing strong defensive discipline and teamwork, which ultimately secured us a hard-fought 2-1 victory. This put us in a solid position heading into our final match against Bedford.
With qualification on the line, we approached the Bedford game with renewed energy, fully aware that a win or draw would guarantee our place in the finals. Bedford, while a capable side, lacked the same intensity as our previous opponents, and we capitalised on this from the start. Our defensive structure was solid, and with some excellent teamwork in attack, we dominated the game. This time, there was no sluggishness – KES was fully awake. The final whistle blew with a resounding 9-1 victory, confirming our place at the ESSA Championship Finals at Haberdashers’ on the 21 March.
It was a performance that showcased resilience, adaptability, and sheer determination. The boys will now turn their focus to the finals, where they will look to build on this success and compete for the national title. Special mention to Alexander (captain), Filipos, Ethan and Bobby who played for every minute.
U15 Water Polo – ESSA Championship Semi-Finals
On Tuesday 25 February, the U15 water polo team travelled to Sandwell Aquatics Centre, a familiar home pool for many of our players, with their sights set on securing a place in the ESSA Plate finals. With only three teams competing in this round, our chances of qualification were high, but with Bolton in the mix, we knew the challenge ahead would be anything but straightforward.
Our first match saw us take on St Bede and St Joseph, who had just come off a defeat to Bolton. Determined to capitalise on this, we went into the game with confidence. The early stages saw some sluggish passing and a few fumbled opportunities, but our defensive efforts were strong, limiting our opponents to just one goal. As the game progressed, our teamwork in attack sharpened, and we found the back of the net five times to secure a solid 5-1 victory. This result confirmed our place in the finals, but our focus quickly shifted to the match we had all been anticipating – Bolton.
With little rest, we immediately faced Bolton in what we expected to be a tough but winnable contest. With Mrs Thomas in the stands offering her support, the team was fired up and ready to prove themselves. The match was tightly contested from the outset, with both teams displaying impressive skill and determination. By the end of the second quarter, KES had edged ahead with a 3-2 lead, but Bolton responded swiftly. A penalty decision followed by a quick counter-attack turned the game in their favour, and despite our best efforts, the final whistle blew with Bolton taking a narrow 4-3 victory.
Although the loss was frustrating, it only reinforced our belief that Bolton are beatable and that, with fine-tuned tactics and determination, we can come out on top when it truly matters. With qualification secured, the team now looks ahead to the Plate Final in March, ready to give everything to bring the trophy home to KES. Special mentions go to Sam, Harry and Ethan for playing every minute, Sam for his great work both in attack and covering back and Mrs Thomas for taking the time to come and support us.
