Mixed Results but Strong OC Spirit
It was a busy weekend across OC sport, with football and netball teams in action and delivering a mix of resilience, determination and standout performances.
Football:
1s vs Bradfield: 3-1 Loss
The 1s battled hard against a well‑organised Bradfield side but ultimately fell 3-1. Despite the result, there were strong moments of play, including our well‑worked goal that briefly shifted the momentum. George Pugh (TL 2018) finished clinically after a clever assist from Ben Miller (NG 2021), giving us a lifeline in the game. Although the team pushed to find an equaliser, Bradfield extended their lead late on, leaving the OCs short of the points this weekend.
2s vs Eton: 4-1 Loss
The 2s also had a challenging afternoon, falling 4-1 to Eton. Despite the setback, the squad showed determination and spells of positive play, demonstrating plenty to build on as the season continues. The group remains motivated, and performances like these will only strengthen the resolve to bounce back in the coming fixtures.
Vets playing Old Etonians at School
Vets vs Old Etonians: 4-1 Win
The OC Vets secured their place in the Arthurian League Vets Final with a convincing 4-1 win over Old Etonians at Highgate School. On a heavy, energy-sapping pitch, the OCs got off to the perfect start with frontman Matt Brown (HG 2009) firing them ahead within 5 minutes of the kick off. Both sides showed their attacking intent and in a hard-fought match it was the OCs who came out on top. They added to their lead a few minutes before the break from Jonny Addison (QG 1999) but did not then sit on their laurels when centre back Aaron Burke (QG 2002) pushed forward and rifled an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the net, giving the opponent keeper no chance. So, it was 3-0 at half time.
Skipper Nick (Casper) Franklin (FG 2002) ensured that there was to be no let up with a focused half time team talk. As expected, the visitors came out and soon mounted an impressive attack which resulted in an outstanding save by keeper Tom Nicoll (KG 2008) – who was imperious throughout - with a fingertip save. Within minutes the home side put the match to bed with a breakaway 4th goal from Jonny Addison for his second goal of the game – earning himself Man of the Match. Although Eton scored a late consolation goal, there was to be no way back for them
This was a thoroughly professional performance from every one of the OCs and puts them in good heart for the final (Old Malvernians or Old Salopians at Merchant Taylor`s ground on a date to be announced).
Netball:
Over on the netball court, the OC Netball team continued their strong form with a 30-25 victory over Nets Be Real. It was a fast‑paced and competitive match, with the squad showing composure in possession and intensity in defence when it mattered most.
Players of the Match were awarded to Ava Mulvihill (EG 2021) and Lizzie Mills (SG 2021) for outstanding contributions across the court, recognising both attacking creativity and defensive grit.
The team now looks ahead to their next fixture on 17 March, where they will meet the Highbury Honey Badgers in what promises to be another exciting encounter.