Horspath put on a super Girls U9 Festival for five excited and enthusiastic teams that included Warborough, Charlbury and Tiddington in addition to Oxford and the hosts.

Oxford played four matches and started in the field against Charlbury. Susanna picked up
an early wicket for Oxford and the batting side reaching a creditable 229. Captain for the
day, Mary, led Oxford’s reply, scoring 12 runs. A thrilling final over concluded with the
scores tied.

There followed a challenge in the next two games against teams that included slightly
older and more experienced opposition.

Batting first against Tiddington, Oxford steadily played their way to 230. Tiddington got off
to a strong start and finished their six overs on 237. Oxford’s Rebecca bowled the most
economically, contributed six runs with the bat and displayed accurate throwing from the
field.

Following a change of pitch for the third match, Warborough proved well-practised
opponents. Oxford made 226, including a super four from Allyson who went on to take a
wicket. Georgina was keen in the field. Warborough started and finished strongly to reach
232 but Oxford contained them well for much of the innings.

After two courageous defeats, Oxford rallied themselves and showed great spirit for their
final game against Horspath.

Horspath opened and scored well but Oxford took three wickets including an excellent caught and bowled from Mary, to hold them to 229. Alexia and Allyson open the blues’ reply with eighteen runs, setting Oxford up for an amazing final score of 250.

All players contributed well to the overall performances. Georgina showed bravery and
progress with each game. Alexia frequently ran important singles and communicated well
with her fellow batters. Susanna was remarkably swift chasing to cover the ball and return
in the field. Across all four games, Rebecca’s impressive consistency delivered the most
economical bowling, conceding only 11 runs and Mary was the top scorer with a whopping
45 runs.

Through the four games the girls increasingly improved their understanding of how to field as a team thanks to the expert coaching insights from Rosalyn.

Mention must be made of Rosalyn’s tireless encouragement for the girls in all teams and
involving the proud parents. Parent Ben ably served as umpire in a couple of matches.
Lastly, Munaza from Horspath wrapped up the Festival with thanks for all present and a
well earned medal for all players.

Thank you to Horspath CC for hosting this wonderful event.