Courtenay-Barrow's Hat-Trick Leads England U17 Females to 3-2 Triumph Over France

The England U17 female team continued their impressive streak in the European Championships held in Italy, putting up another good performance against France. Their undefeated run remained intact as they faced off against France, with the opportunity to claim the top spot in their group.

During the first half of the match, England displayed a dominant presence in front of the goal, but they struggled to convert their numerous scoring opportunities. Lily-Rose had a chance from a direct but was unable to capitalize on it. Despite England's relentless attacks, France managed to seize an opportunity and slipped the ball past England’s goalkeeper, taking a 1-0 lead as the teams headed into halftime.

england in action against France

However, England's spirits were far from dampened. Captain Courtenay-Barrow emerged as their savior, expertly placing the ball into the corner of the French net. Shortly thereafter, Courtenay-Barrow had another opportunity from a direct, but once again, she couldn't find the mark. It was then France's turn to capitalize on a direct shot, extending their lead to 2-1.

England, showing incredible resilience, refused to back down. Courtenay-Barrow stepped up again, securing her second goal of the game, leveling the score at 2-2. Then, with only 13 seconds left on the clock, Courtenay-Barrow completed her remarkable hat-trick, sealing a thrilling 3-2 victory for the young England team. This incredible performance catapulted them to the top of their group, marking yet another impressive achievement in their journey through the tournament.

Darbyshire Doubles Up as England U17s Secure 3-2 Win in Group B Clash

The England U17 male team took to the rink for their decisive Group B match. Despite a strong start from England, a surprising turn of events occurred when Andorra secured the lead with a perfectly executed shot into the upper corner. However, the team found reassurance in their standout player, Darbyshire, who unleashed a remarkable long-range strike that found its mark in the top corner of the net.

In a matter of moments, Darbyshire once again showcased his prowess, embarking on a skillful run down the flank before delivering a precise pass to Allen positioned at the back post. Allen managed to nudge the ball over the line, resulting in a 2-1 scoreline at halftime. As the second half unfolded, England exhibited a sense of control over the game. It was Darbyshire who emerged as the hero once more, sneaking behind the goal to expertly convert a chance from the back post.

However, Andorra wasn't ready to concede defeat. A long-range effort managed to navigate its way through a crowd of players, ultimately eluding Clack in goal. Despite the challenge, England held their ground for the remainder of the match, ultimately securing a 3-2 victory. The team's outstanding performance throughout the tournament cannot be overlooked, culminating in a commendable third-place finish in Group B.

England Trio: Bolt, Chandler, and Courtenay-barrow all on Target in win over Germany

The England U17 Female team achieved an impressive victory against Germany! The first half was slow from England as they built their plays, creating numerous scoring opportunities. However, it was Germany who struck first, with a powerful long-range shot finding its way past Thorogood, England's goalkeeper. Just before half-time, Courtenay-barrow had a golden opportunity to equalize but narrowly missed the mark, leaving the score at halftime with England trailing 0-1 to Germany.

The second half saw England emerge with renewed vigor, and within minutes, Emily Bolt charged down the flank and expertly slotted the ball into the top of the net, leveling the score. England continued to apply pressure on the German defense but struggled to find the finishing touch. The Germans, meanwhile, launched their own attacks and felt they deserved a foul, though the referee disagreed. In a contentious moment, a German player took a swing at Chandler’s legs, resulting in the German team receiving a blue card.

England was awarded a direct, and Chandler stepped up with unwavering confidence, smashing the ball into the net to give England a 2-1 lead. However, Chandler's enthusiasm got the better of her, as she later fouled a German player and was shown a blue card in return. The Germans capitalised on the subsequent direct, making it 2-2. With both teams hungry for victory, they pressed forward, and Germany had the better chances.

But it was the England team's captain Courtenay-Barrow who rose to the occasion, executing a beautiful one-two with Bolt and calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner with only seven seconds left on the clock. England emerged victorious in a thrilling match. The team's next challenge will be against France on Thursday at 2:00 pm.

England Match Stats v Germany

• Shots on Target: 16

• Shots off Target: 14

• Team Fouls: 7

• Balls Lost: 6

• Interceptions: 6

• Saves: 26

England U17s Surrender 3-0 Lead, Settle for 3-3 Draw Against Germany in European Championships

The England U17s faced off against Germany in the European Championships, seeking redemption following their loss to Switzerland the day before. The match showcased a markedly faster pace compared to yesterday's game, with England seizing control early on. Mackenzie secured the opening goal for England, swiftly followed by Darbyshire's powerful slap shot that eluded the opposing goalkeeper. Both teams enjoyed numerous scoring opportunities, but it was England that struck again. Captain Hopkins delivered a precise forward pass to Allen, who expertly placed the ball into the top corner of the net.

Germany retaliated with a shot that snuck past England's goalkeeper, Alex Clack. Shortly thereafter, Germany found the back of the net again, capitalizing on England's defensive lapse and leaving a player unmarked at the back post. The first half concluded with England leading 3-2 over Germany.

The second half commenced, and Germany wasted no time in equalizing with a powerful long-range shot. Both teams continued to create scoring chances, with Clack in England's goal making some impressive saves. Ultimately, an impressive England side held on for a 3-3 draw, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the match.

England Match Stats v Germany

• Shots on Target: 31

• Shots off Target: 17

• Team Fouls: 5

• Balls Lost: 16

• Interceptions: 7

• Saves: 22

Dynamic Duo: Lily and Scarlett Shine in Thrilling U17 England vs. Portugal Clash

England's U17 female team delivered a sensational performance in their thrilling 3-3 draw against Portugal. They exemplified all the qualities needed to emerge victorious - tenacity, unity, and sheer determination.

Initially trailing 1-0 at halftime due to a goal by Ana Silva for Portugal, England made a bold move by changing their goalkeepers at the break.

Only five seconds into the second half, Mariana Teixeira struck again for Portugal, increasing their lead to 2-0. However, England's Captain, Scarlett Courtney Barrow, exhibited her leadership and skill, responding with a cleverly executed finish to reduce the deficit.

Unfortunately, Portugal quickly extended their lead to 3-1 with a goal from Diana Moreira. Yet, England refused to back down. Two rapid-fire goals, one from Courtney Barrow and another from Lily-Rose Chandler via the penalty spot, leveled the score at 3-3.

Back in June, we highlighted the potential of Lily-Rose Chandler, identifying her as a future star to watch. Her performance, alongside that of Courtney Barrow, reinforced that they are indeed the future of English Female Hockey.

Both England stars in action vs Portugal

The match showcased a tremendous team effort, and England is ready to take on Germany at 2 pm on Tuesday, aiming to continue their impressive run.

"England U17 Male Team Fall Short in 4-1 Battle Against Switzerland, Captain Hillam Injured"

The England U17 Male Team played their first match this morning at 9:00 am against Switzerland. The game got off to a promising start with some impressive movements on the Rink. However, by halftime, Switzerland had surged ahead, leading 3-0.

In the second half, England's performance improved significantly, recording 14 shots on target, compared to just 4 in the first half. During this period, there was a notable incident when Darbyshire received a Blue card midway through the half, prompting Clack in Goal to make a crucial save. Four minutes later, Webber was unceremoniously taken down from behind, resulting in a Swiss player being shown a blue card as well. Captain Hillam stepped up to take the shot, but unfortunately, it was saved.

Captain Harry Hillam in action

Shortly after this, Hillam endured a heavy collision with the barrier and had to be stretchered off the Rink. Our best wishes go out to Harry for a swift recovery! Despite the setbacks, England managed to pull one back with a well-executed low shot by T. Semilore. Switzerland did manage to score one more goal, concluding the game with a final score of 4-1.

England Match Stats v Switzerland

• Shots on Target: 18

• Shots off Target: 20

• Team Fouls: 9

• Balls Lost: 16

• Interceptions: 13

• Saves: 17

England's next challenge will be facing Germany at 11:00am on Tuesday.

Manchester Roller Hockey Club Secures Coach Dan Messenger for 2023/2024 Season

In a move that promises to shake up the roller hockey scene, Manchester Roller Hockey Club has proudly announced the acquisition of Dan Messenger for the upcoming 2023/2024 season.

Club statement, "Dan's arrival marks a significant milestone for us. With an impressive background we welcome Dan as our senior and Premier League coach and manager, Dan brings a wealth of experience to our team. His expertise extends not only locally but also nationally and internationally, making him the perfect fit for our club!”

Dan steps into the role of Senior Coach and Manager, lending his expertise to the club's Premier League side. The decision to bring him on board underscores the club's commitment to raising its performance & Profile.

Good luck to Dan and Manchester in the Premier League.

RINKit Athlete Archie Franks: A Roller Hockey Prodigy on the Rise

RINKit Athlete Archie Franks, a young and ambitious athlete, is on a path to greatness in the world of Roller Hockey. At just 16 years old, he has already achieved the dream of representing England in the U19 squad in 2023. Archie's dedication to his sport is unparalleled as he trains rigorously, both on the rink and in the gym, four to five times a week. With a focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and investing in top-notch equipment, he leaves no stone unturned in his pursuit of becoming a professional Roller Hockey player by the age of 19. Archie's journey not only inspires fellow athletes but also uplifts the sport of Roller Hockey in England, as he actively coaches and supports younger players, all while excelling in his academic pursuits in engineering.

Archie's remarkable achievements extend beyond his national team representation. As a RINKit athlete, Children's Coach Volunteer, and player for the Invicta Roller Hockey Club and Herne Bay Roller Hockey Club, he has continuously proven himself as a force to be reckoned with in the sport. Voted as the "Player’s Player of the Year" in the Invicta Premiership Team for the 2022-23 season, Archie's passion for Roller Hockey and impressive record of club and national championship wins since the age of 5 underscores his exceptional talent and unwavering commitment. Support and investment in this rising star will undoubtedly pave the way for a promising future, not just for Archie but also for the sport he holds dear to his heart.

If you are able to help with a donation here is the Link 👉 Support RINKit Athlete Archie Franks 2023-24