Match Report: Medway U16 Girls vs. Sevenoaks U16 Girls
Date: Sunday, 02/02/2025 Time: 1:30 PM Location: Medway Weather: Cold but sunny, despite an overnight hard frost that led to other game cancellations across the county.

The final league match for Medway U16 Girls was played on a day that felt unexpectedly spring-like on the top pitch. The game started with Medway taking an early lead, as Pearl Marwood showcased her speed by taking a pass on the wing and sprinting to score in the corner. This impressive effort put Medway ahead 5-0.

Eight minutes later, Medway extended their lead with another try, this time from Phoebe Elliot-Bloomfield, often referred to as a lightning bolt on the field, making it 10-0. However, Sevenoaks hit back with a try of their own 10 minutes later, bringing the score to 10-5. Just before halftime, Sevenoaks managed to score again with a converted try, leaving Medway trailing 10-12 at the break.

The second half saw both teams locked in a stalemate for the first 12 minutes, with Medway's forwards dominating the breakdowns and making numerous hard tackles. Ruby Prenter's repeated displays of dominance in this area were particularly noteworthy. The breakthrough came when Caroline Szumny powered over the line to score an important try, which Amelia Massey successfully converted, putting Medway back in the lead at 17-12.

Medway's outside centre, Sharna Clarke, made her presence felt with some crunching tackles and dominant jackals. Sevenoaks managed to level the score with another try but failed to convert it, bringing the game to 17-17. Both teams continued to battle fiercely, but it was Medway who ultimately prevailed. After several phases of play, Grace Kelly scored the decisive try, putting Medway ahead 22-17.

Despite Sevenoaks coming close to scoring again, Medway's resolute defence cleared their lines and held on for the final 5 minutes of tense action, securing a hard-fought victory against their friends from Sevenoaks. The coaches' blood pressure is sure to return to normal in a few days after such an intense match.

Players of the Match:

Amelia Massey (Forward)

Phoebe Elliot-Bloomfield (Back)

Caroline Szumny (Coaches' Choice)

A memorable end to the league season for Medway U16 Girls, with a display of skill, determination, and teamwork that will be remembered for a long time.