Bloxham Prep School U13 Cricket Tournament
The 1st XI enjoyed a hugely successful afternoon at the tournament hosted by Bloxham School on Monday, returning to The Beacon unbeaten and crowned worthy champions after three impressive performances.
The opening fixture against the hosts set the tone for the day. Chasing 63 to win from 10 overs, Hunter O and Seb P produced a commanding opening partnership, batting with composure and aggression to see the side home by 10 wickets without ever looking troubled. With some hard hitting they ensured the target was reached comfortably without the loss of a wicket.
The second match against Beachborough School saw the team attempt to rotate the batting order and spread opportunities around the squad. Although not everyone managed to get a bat, the side still delivered another professional display, securing victory by six wickets and maintaining momentum heading into the final game.
The tournament decider against Moulsford Prep School proved to be the toughest challenge of the day. Moulsford started superbly and looked set to post a total well in excess of 100 before the introduction of Henry B changed the course of the match. His breakthrough wicket halted the momentum and allowed the team to fight back brilliantly, restricting Moulsford to 84 from their 10 overs.
In reply, a couple of early wickets threatened to derail the chase, but captain Hugo C responded with a magnificent unbeaten 44 from just 27 balls. It was a superb innings filled with classy strokes all around the ground, guiding the side to victory and ensuring the trophy made its way back to The Beacon.
Reported by Mr Robinson
U11 Tennis Tournament at Radley College
On a cold blustery day at Radley, our boys delivered an outstanding performance. The Colts’ first pair, Evan K and Emilio T, played superbly throughout the tournament and remained unbeaten. They were supported equally well by the second pair, Evan A and Sammy M.
The team finished the tournament in an excellent second place and it took a very strong performance by Summer Fields School to stop them gaining overall victory in what was a very tight competition. With seven schools taking part, securing second place was a tremendous achievement. Well done, boys!
Reported by Mr Winter
U8B2 Cricket v Davenies
Our U8B2 team made a fantastic start in their first cricket match with an impressive win by 51 runs over Davenies in an entertaining match full of encouraging performances. Davenies batted first and posted 241-4, but we responded brilliantly with the bat, chasing the target comfortably to finish on an outstanding 292-0.
The most impressive aspect of the innings was the teamwork and concentration shown by the boys when batting, who managed to bat through the entire innings without losing a single wicket. For a young side still learning the game, this was a superb achievement and highlighted how much progress the team has already made. Throughout the match, the players showed growing confidence and a much better understanding of the game, with improved calling, sensible shot selection and excellent teamwork on display.
It has been wonderful to see the boys improving each week, and this excellent victory over Davenies was a deserved reward for all of their hard work and enthusiasm so far this term. Well done boys!
Reported by Mr Sutcliffe
U9A Cricket vs Davenies
Our U9A cricket team produced a superb all-round performance to secure a commanding victory by 116 runs over Davenies in an entertaining 20-over pairs contest. After restricting Davenies to 232-15 from their 20 overs, The Beacon chased brilliantly to finish on an outstanding 348-4 and complete a convincing win.
The bowling and fielding effort laid the foundations for victory. Hari K starred with the ball, taking three wickets in an excellent spell, while Freddie VF produced a dramatic moment by claiming two wickets in two balls. We were equally sharp in the field, taking several excellent catches and showing great energy throughout the innings. One of the highlights of the match came when Freddie VF produced a fantastic direct-hit run out from fine leg.
The boys batted with confidence and intent from the very start. Hari K also made a valuable contribution with the bat by top scoring with 25, while Khian V added 19 runs and Hugo H made 13 as we kept the scoreboard moving throughout the innings.
We are starting to show improvements from the first couple of games, most notably in our fielding and running between the wickets. Encouraging signs as we prepare to take on a strong Caldicott side next week.
Reported by Mr Sutcliffe
Seniors Tennis Tournament at Radley College
The Senior Boys’ Team of Henry L, Henry M, Harry A, Hugo C, Xander K-G and Allistair B-H, produced some fine tennis, finishing in third place overall in a very competitive tournament.
A special mention goes to Hugo C and Harry A, who delivered an outstanding performance at second pair, losing just one match throughout the competition.
Very well done to the entire team on a fantastic performance.
Reported by Mr Winter