Amesbury's Under 11 girls were victorious for the third consecutive year - and for the fifth time in a decade - at the prestigious preparatory schools' netball tournament at Bryanston.

The same team had already won the King Edward School, Witley and Guildford High School tournaments, and on their way to reaching the Bryanston final the girls defeated The Downs 8-1, Leweston Prep 9-0, Port Regis 3-1 and Chafyn Grove 6-4.

The semi-final at the Dorset-based school was a keenly-fought affair against an excellent Norman Court team, but Amesbury emerged gallant 5-3 winners.

The girls from Amesbury saved their best performance for the final and over-whelmed an excellent Hanford team 12-1.

Playing in their now familiar style, which places a premium on skillful team play executed at high speed, the Hanford girls fround their opponents in irresistible form and Amesbury girls dominated possession throughout as a consequence.

Shooters Lucy Lines and Phoebe Landers were composed under pressure, Bobbie Seavill and Zoe Jackson resilient and stubborn defenders, while Jasmine Whitby, in her role as centre, was the heartbeat of the team, moving the ball up the court to Amesbury's shooters and chasing back when the ball was lost.

The Under 13s were not to be outdone by their younger compatriots and won the Bowl competition, having previously won the Under 11 title in 2005.

They defeated Hanford, Knighton House and Barrow Hills in the group stages, but were eventually defeated 3-1 by Millfield.  They saved their best performance for last and defeated Durlston Court 6-4.

The centre court play from Scarlett Rudd and Leah Hemmings was outstanding and shooters Katie Griffiths and Connie Blake were strong under pressure.

In Susannah Duncan, the team captain, they had an excellent leader.

Head of girls' physical education and games Lauren Dover was impressed by the girls' drive and determination, adding: "the girls were delighted with their performances and deserved to win on the day due to some great team work.

"They are an extremely dedicated team and work wonderfully together, offering constant support and encouragement.  Their coach, Emily Barkway, has done some incredible work with the girls."

HASLEMERE HERALD
8th February 2008