1st XI Crowned Regional Indoor Hockey Champions

Having won the county round in October, Brighton competed alongside the best schools from Surrey and Kent. Preparations earlier in the week against Knole Park HC and East Grinstead HC certainly paid off, as the girls raced out of the blocks to claim a significant 3-1 victory in the opening pool game against Epsom.

A 4-0 victory over St Lawrence ensured that Brighton would finish top of the group and play the runners-up of pool A, Cranleigh. Cranleigh posed a considerable ball-carrying threat; however, the clinical finishing of Brighton alongside outstanding defence in and around the circle edge carried the girls over the line, securing a 3-1 victory and an inaugural appearance in a regional indoor final.

In a cagey and tactical affair, Brighton played Sevenoaks at their own game, showing great patience to keep the ball until the opposition sprung out to press, and not trying to force long passes off the boards. A quick restart from a free hit broke the opposition structure and the ball found its way to the far post area where Biba finished neatly to take the lead in the first half. Sevenoaks responded with a neatly adapted corner of their own to overcome the outstanding penalty corner defence of Brighton. With tired legs showing on both sides, there was time for one more turnover in the favour of Brighton.

With seconds left on the clock, the girls found their way into the Sevenoaks circle to win a penalty corner. With full-time now up, the final blow was dealt by Biba, who unleashed an unstoppable flick from the shoulder of the circle to beat the reigning indoor champions, with scenes of jubilation for the girls in claret and white.

Ultimately, Brighton were the best team in both circles throughout the day, thanks to some clinical finishing and incredible saves from Ruby and her defensive group.