A full and exciting week of Shiplake sport saw action across the pitches, courts and the Tideway. Our football teams delivered dominant wins, tight contests and standout individual performances across all age groups, while our netball squads — from Year 7 through to the senior 1st VII — impressed with excellent teamwork, growing cohesion and strong results. Meanwhile, on the river, both the Boys’ and Girls’ 1st VIII stormed to superb victories at the Hammersmith Head, rounding off a highly successful weekend for Shiplake Rowing.
FOOTBALL
U15A vs Crosfields School
On Tuesday 24 February, Shiplake’s U15A boys faced Crosfields in a tight contest that ultimately finished goalless. Crosfields set up with a deep block throughout the afternoon, and despite Shiplake dominating possession, we couldn’t quite find a route through to break the deadlock. It was a strong performance lacking only that final ball or decisive touch inside the box. Hotston and Keown were solid at the back, while goalkeeper Morgan dealt calmly with everything that came his way. In midfield, Sargent pushed relentlessly, supported by excellent contributions from Mellor and Webb. Player of the Match went to left‑back Jack Prosser, who delivered a commanding display up and down the flank and was instrumental in driving our attacking play. A clean sheet banked — now attention turns to back‑to‑back fixtures on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. The ice baths have been summoned!
Shiplake College 0 – 0 Crosfields School
U14A vs Chipping Norton School (County Cup Round 3)
Yesterday afternoon saw Shiplake’s U14As travel for their County Cup Round 3 fixture against a very physical Chipping Norton side. It proved a humbling day as the boys struggled to find rhythm, unable to string passes together or create meaningful chances, and trailed 0–3 at half time. To their credit, they improved significantly after the break, defending more securely and showing real character. M Brown, Charlie Goss and J Verheggen worked tirelessly and demonstrated great fighting spirit throughout. Despite the result, the journey home was brightened by plenty of sing‑songs. With fixtures on Friday and Saturday, the boys will be eager to bounce back quickly.
Shiplake College 0 – 4 Chipping Norton School
1st XI vs Dr Challoner's Grammar School
On Wednesday 25 February, Shiplake’s 1st XI delivered an excellent performance in a very competitive match against Dr Challoner’s Grammar School, securing a well‑earned win. Both teams struggled early on for meaningful possession, until Daniel Johnson-Greenwood struck low under the keeper with a well‑taken right‑footed finish. A moment of brilliance followed when Rory O’Boyle scored from near the corner flag, lofting the ball over the goalkeeper and into the far corner. Dr Challoner’s came out strongly after the interval and deservedly pulled a goal back. Shiplake, however, stayed disciplined defensively and continued to create chances before Daniel Johnson-Greenwood grabbed his second of the game to seal the victory. Special mentions go to Daniel and Charlie Nash-Steer for terrific performances throughout.
Shiplake College 3 – 1 Dr Challoner’s Grammar School
2nd XI vs Leighton Park School
Shiplake’s 2nd XI put on a superb display earlier this week against Leighton Park, producing a performance that felt like a classic “vintage 2s” outing. The boys bounced back in style, with two goals apiece for Ollie Jomar and skipper Oli Bailey, while Arthur Massie added the pick of the goals to complete a comprehensive win. It was also brilliant to welcome Freddie Fisher back after a long‑term injury — his presence in defence was certainly missed. Although several players were worthy of recognition, Player of the Match went to the outstanding Ollie Jomar.
Shiplake College 5 – 0 Leighton Park School
3rd XI vs Claire’s Court School
Earlier this week, Shiplake’s 3rd XI were unfortunate to fall to a narrow 1‑0 defeat against Claire’s Court. A shaky opening spell led to a free‑kick on the edge of the box, which the visitors converted. From that point on, Shiplake grew into the match, building momentum but unable to carve out a decisive chance. The defensive unit was excellent, cutting out numerous attacks and keeping the team firmly in the game.
Man of the Match: Ed Tavinor
Shiplake College 0 – 1 Claire’s Court School
4th XI vs Claire’s Court School
On a muddy pitch earlier this week, Shiplake’s 4th XI — the “Fighting Fourths” — maintained their position at the top of the league with a gritty and determined performance. Raiph Surplice set up N Bandor with a delightful through ball, and the captain finished calmly to open the scoring. Claire’s Court equalised from a corner before Charlie Broad produced a Bergkamp‑esque touch and finish to regain the lead. Shiplake pressed for a cushion, striking the post twice, but ultimately held firm to secure all three points. Can the unbeaten run continue all season?
Shiplake College 2 – 1 Claire’s Court School
1st XI vs St Joseph’s College
On Thursday 26 February, the 1st XI travelled into central Reading to take on St Joseph’s on a cold, blustery afternoon. Shiplake opened the scoring early through a well‑executed set‑piece, and after a quiet period, suddenly burst into life with three quick‑fire goals to make it 4–0. Sustained possession early in the second half allowed Shiplake to extend the lead further with two more excellent strikes. St Joseph’s pulled one back late on, but Shiplake ran out convincing winners in what was a dominant display of football.
Shiplake College 6 – 1 St Joseph’s College
Girls 1st XI vs Holme Grange School
The Shiplake Girls’ 1st XI put in a resilient and determined performance on Thursday 26 February, narrowly losing out in the final moments against a strong Holme Grange side. The game began openly, with both teams creating chances and both goalkeepers producing superb saves. Holme Grange struck twice in quick succession, but Shiplake responded brilliantly with two goals either side of half‑time — a volley from a corner and a well‑placed finish inside the box, both from Harriet Gresty-Evans. With the match finely poised at 2–2, Holme Grange capitalised on a late counter‑attack to seal the win. A fantastic match to play in and to watch.
Shiplake College 2 – 4 Holme Grange School
U14A/B vs Aylesbury Grammar School
On Friday 27 February, a combined U14A/B side returned to winning ways with an impressive 6–1 victory over Aylesbury Grammar School. The team played with freedom and attacking intent throughout, scoring through L Hathway, O Pollard, Lewis Moss, two goals from William Arden, and a superb strike from the right boot of G Leach. A confident display that sets the boys up well for the weekend’s fixtures.
Shiplake College 6 – 1 Aylesbury Grammar School
1st XI vs King Edward’s Witley
On Saturday 28 February, Shiplake’s 1st XI saw their winning streak come to an end in a thrilling 4–3 contest against King Edward’s Witley. Shiplake began brightly but fell behind before deservedly equalising through Daniel JG shortly before half-time — despite playing ten minutes with ten men due to injury. KEW scored early in the second half, prompting a spirited Shiplake response. Devon Staples spectacularly lobbed the keeper from 35 yards, and Jakob Hinton headed home from an Alex Hoker delivery to make it 3–2. However, Shiplake couldn’t quite hold on as KEW struck twice late on. Lots of positives to take heading into an important week.
Shiplake College 3 – 4 King Edward’s Witley
2nd XI vs King Edward’s Witley
Saturday morning saw Shiplake’s 2nd XI travel to King Edward’s Witley, where they produced another excellent performance. Carl Seymour opened the scoring with quick feet and a composed finish, before Shiplake dominated possession for much of the half. Early in the second half, a long-range free kick from Dylan Litchfield rattled the bar, with Oli Bailey following in for his ninth of the season. A defensive mix‑up allowed KEW to pull one back, but Shiplake regained control through Jacob Andrews, who placed a fine finish into the top corner for his first of the campaign. Two late goals followed — another for Seymour and a bullet header from Ollie Jomar — securing a convincing win.
Player of the Match: Jacob Andrews
Shiplake College 5 – 1 King Edward’s Witley
3rd XI vs King Edward’s Witley
Shiplake’s 3rd XI enjoyed a superb 7–3 victory on Saturday 28 February after a run of difficult results. A lofted ball from Seb Crehan-Mills glanced off Oscar Spearing’s head for the opener, before KEW responded with two quick goals. Shiplake bounced back through Seb Crehan-Mills with a composed finish into the bottom corner. After Max Jobson left the field injured, the team rallied brilliantly, scoring four excellent goals: one from Kirkwood, two more from Seb, and one from captain Kit Marsh. KEW grabbed a late goal, but Seb completed his hat‑trick with a superb solo run and finish.
Man of the Match: Captain Kit Marsh, for superb leadership and even stepping into defence when required.
Shiplake College 7 – 3 King Edward’s Witley
4th XI vs King Edward’s Witley
The unbeaten run continued on Saturday for Shiplake’s 4th XI, who produced another emphatic win. Ryan Bloor scored a devastating brace — one directly from a corner — with Isaac Walmsley racing through for a third, and Raiph Surplice adding a composed finish for the fourth. Special credit to debutants Will Fisher and Finley Russell, who both impressed. The invincible season marches on!
Shiplake College 4 – 0 King Edward’s Witley
U15A vs King Edward’s Witley
On Saturday morning, Shiplake’s U15As produced a spirited display against the ISFA National Cup finalists from King Edward’s Witley. The visitors arrived in high spirits after reaching the national final, but it was Shiplake who struck first through Joseph Filippetto following a flowing midfield move involving Seb Currie, Hadley Sargent, Joshua Ellison and George Huckle. A superb save denied Daniel Mellor a second, and Shiplake were deservedly 1–0 up at half-time. KEW emerged a different side after the break, using the wind to their advantage and scoring twice from soft set‑piece situations. Shiplake battled back, with Sargent hitting the post and A Webb almost converting after a goalkeeper fumble but pushing for an equaliser left space for KEW to score a third on the counter.
Player of the Match: Goalkeeper Ed Morgan, for a series of brave and outstanding saves. With a depleted squad, fatigue showed late on — but the fight and spirit remained undeniable.
Shiplake College 1 – 3 King Edward’s Witley
U15B vs King Edward’s Witley
At home on Saturday morning, the U15Bs delivered one of their most complete performances of the season in a 3–1 victory over a strong King Edward’s Witley side. After absorbing early pressure, Shiplake took the lead when Will Webb pounced on a defensive error and squared for Zack Roberts to finish clinically. Early in the second half, a powerful free‑kick from Harry Durkan struck the post, and captain Sai Vedhara reacted quickest to double the lead. KEW pulled one back from close range after sustained pressure, setting up a tense finale. The decisive moment came from sheer persistence: T Siveter chased a seemingly lost cause, swung a cross into the box, and in swirling wind the goalkeeper failed to claim it — allowing Seb Harrison to pounce for his fourth of the season.
Man of the Match: Harry Woodward, for outstanding tenacity and leadership.
Shiplake College 3 – 1 King Edward’s Witley
U14A vs King Edward’s Witley
Shiplake’s U14As continued their up‑and‑down season on Saturday morning in a competitive fixture against King Edward’s Witley. Despite the scoreline, the boys battled hard, hitting the crossbar twice and forcing several saves. William Hargreaves scored a superb free‑kick to ensure the second half finished 1–1, but further goals proved elusive. A special shout‑out to birthday boy Charlie Goss, and the post‑match slice of caterpillar cake that lifted spirits.
Shiplake College 1 – 5 King Edward’s Witley
U14B vs King Edward’s Witley
On Saturday morning, Shiplake’s U14Bs hosted King Edward’s in an entertaining match that ended 2–2. Shiplake started brightly, moving the ball confidently and taking the lead through a brilliant long‑range effort from Ethan English. Dominant for much of the half, they couldn’t extend their advantage, and halftime changes affected rhythm. KEW equalised five minutes into the second half and continued to apply pressure. With five minutes remaining, Henry Adcock was brought down in the box, and Yani Stamoulis converted coolly from the spot. In the final moments, however, KEW struck again to level the game. A fair result from an excellent contest.
Shiplake College 2 – 2 King Edward’s Witley
Girls U12/U13 vs St Mary’s Ascot
It was a pleasure to take the U12/13 girls on Saturday morning as they travelled to St Mary’s Ascot. Eleven Year 7s and two Year 8s arrived full of enthusiasm, ready to face the challenge of a full‑size Astro pitch — a shock at first, but they adapted quickly with intelligent positioning and determined defending. The match was largely fought in midfield, with few clear chances. When danger did arise, our centre‑back pairing dealt with it superbly, with P Crauford earning Player of the Match for her excellent performance. In the final third, as fatigue set in, St Mary’s found a breakthrough to win 1–0. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the occasion and are already looking forward to returning to Ascot next week.
Shiplake College 0 – 1 St Mary’s Ascot
NETBALL
1st VII vs Claire’s Court School
Earlier this week, Shiplake’s 1st VII travelled away to Claire’s Court for a crucial late‑season league fixture and delivered a brilliant all‑round performance. From the first centre pass, the girls worked superbly as a unit, moving the ball smoothly through the court and showing excellent teamwork in every third. Their composure and accuracy resulted in another dominant win as the league campaign nears its conclusion.
Special congratulations to the award winners:
Players of the Match: S Bhambra & A O’Shea
Players’ Player: S Bhambra
Coaches’ Player: M Mundy
Shiplake College 47 – 20 Claire’s Court School
2nd VII vs Leighton Park School
On Wednesday afternoon, the 2nd VII faced Leighton Park in a match filled with both excitement and nerves. Despite a challenging first quarter that created an early goal deficit, the girls responded with determination, significantly raising their intensity in the second quarter to close the gap. By the third and fourth quarters, Shiplake were applying real pressure and steadily reducing the margin, but despite their spirited fightback, the gap proved just too much to overturn. It was nonetheless a committed and hardworking performance from start to finish, with the girls maintaining high energy under pressure.
Player of the Match: E Shraga
Players’ Player: L Coles
Shiplake College 12 – 24 Leighton Park School
3rd VII vs Queen Anne’s School
On Wednesday, Shiplake’s 3rd VII produced a determined and spirited display against Queen Anne’s in an exciting and competitive contest. Although trailing 5–11 after the opening quarter, the team responded superbly, showing energy, resilience and teamwork to narrow the gap to 9–18 at half‑time. Strong defensive pressure and sharp attacking combinations in the third quarter brought the score to 13–21, keeping Shiplake firmly in the game. The final quarter was played at full intensity, with the girls adding five more goals before the match ended 18–24. Despite the result, it was a performance full of character, communication and grit — one they can be proud of.
Players of the Match:
Attacking: C Thomas
Defending: C Brown
Players’ Player: L Boyes
Coaches’ Player: A Gillington
Shiplake College 18 – 24 Queen Anne’s School
4th VII vs Leighton Park School
On Wednesday, the 4th VII took on Leighton Park and produced a confident and well‑controlled performance throughout. From the opening whistle, Shiplake set the tempo, showing determination, sharp passing and excellent movement off the ball. Their discipline in defence and purposeful communication across the court allowed them to maintain control and keep the opposition under sustained pressure. It was a fantastic team effort, with every player contributing to what was a deserved and impressive victory.
Players of the Match: R Davis & M Redston
Players’ Player: M Redston
Coaches’ Player: L Richardson
Shiplake College 23 – 9 Leighton Park School
U12A vs Great Marlow School
On Tuesday afternoon, the Year 7A team travelled to face Great Marlow School in what turned out to be a closely contested fixture. Shiplake worked hard throughout and their growing cohesion as a squad was clear to see. The match remained tight from start to finish, with the girls showing determination, accurate passing and improved movement around the court. Despite their efforts, the A team were narrowly edged out 11–10 in a very competitive encounter.
Players of the Match: P Crauford & Freya Nicholson
Shiplake College 10 – 11 Great Marlow School
U12B vs Great Marlow School
Later that same afternoon, the U12B team also took on Great Marlow School in a lively and positive fixture. The girls demonstrated excellent teamwork and an increasingly confident understanding of their positions, building well on recent training sessions. Shiplake produced a strong performance across all four quarters, moving the ball fluently and defending with real commitment. Their efforts were rewarded with a deserved 7–5 win.
Players of the Match: C Buckley & Ruby Jones
Shiplake College 7 – 5 Great Marlow School
ROWING
Hammersmith Head
Shiplake College enjoyed an outstanding day of racing on the Tideway at the Hammersmith Head this Saturday, delivering a series of impressive results across the squad. Both the Girls’ and Boys’ 1st VIII produced dominant performances, each winning the Junior 18 Eights category. Rowing with confidence and composure on the challenging Tideway course, both crews set commanding times that secured Shiplake’s double victory in the top junior event of the day. The success continued further down the squad. The Girls’ 2nd VIII delivered a strong performance, finishing as the fastest 2nd VIII overall, a remarkable achievement against strong opposition. The Boys’ 2nd VIII also impressed, finishing as the second-fastest 2nd VIII, confirming the depth and strength of Shiplake’s senior squads. In the junior ranks, the J16 VIII rowed a confident and competitive race to finish 6th out of 20 crews in a large and highly competitive category. Overall, it was a highly successful outing on the Tideway. The results provide excellent momentum as Shiplake look ahead to the Schools' Head of the River.
