South East’s team spirit praised as they seal U14s Girls’ Inter-Regional title

Proud South East Anderida head coach Lauren Hand has hailed the team spirit of her U14s Girls’ Inter-Regional Championships title-winning squad.

South East dominated the tournament at Walsall Gala Baths, topping Group A with a 100 per cent record before celebrating emphatic victories in the semi-final and gold medal match.

They scored 48 goals and conceded only 12 throughout the competition.

Hand was delighted with the manner of her team’s display throughout the event and said: “We are absolutely thrilled for the girls. 

“They showed such team spirit throughout the whole weekend and really delivered on the tactics we discussed. 

“We only conceded 12 goals in the whole tournament, which is a testament not only to our fantastic goalkeeper but also the strong team press. 

“The girls should feel very proud and enjoy celebrating a thoroughly deserved win.”

A 7-3 Group A win over London Sharks was followed by a 13-1 success against Scotland Saltires before they sealed top spot with a 9-5 victory against North West Thunder.

Everyone contributed

That set up a last-four fixture against Group B runners-up Ireland and they comfortably booked their place in the final with a impressive 10-2 win.

In the gold medal match, Group A runners-up North West Thunder, who defeated Group B winners South West Sharks in the other semi-final,  were seeking revenge after losing 9-5 to South East earlier in the championships.

However, South East were rampant and took the gold medal with a 9-1 scoreline.

South East captain Amelia Cook said: “We all played so well, and everyone contributed to our win.

“It was clear that we all played well with each other, and we all got on really well, both in and out of the pool. 

“I can’t wait to play with everyone again soon.”

The bronze medal went to South West Sharks, who defeated Ireland 11-9.

Competition organiser Joanne Mountfield said: “Thanks to West Midlands president, Jose Davenport, who presented the awards and medals, our event manager, Debbie Arthur, and the West Midland Region for hosting this event.

“We were also delighted that, with the current shortage of officials, Mick Arthur was available to support another two new table officials throughout the weekend, enabling them to complete their three practical assessments.”

MVP Awards

• Abbie Evans (North West Thunder)
• Heather Wood (Scotland Saltires)
• Angela Gallagher (London Sharks)
• Callista Almeida (South East Anderida)
• Tiffany Ainge (North East Steelers)
• India Knights Hume (South West Sharks)
• Maisie Bowden (Ireland)
• Caitlin Wareham (West Midland Warriors)

Event Awards 

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• Top Goalkeeper: Yasmin Chaabane (South West Sharks)
• Top Goalscorer: Elsie Graves (South East Anderida)
• Overall MVP Award: Elsie Graves (South East Anderida)

Results

Group A

Group B

Play-Off Stage