Saturday saw the first ever competitive game for the Waltham Forest Under 8s. The team (tentatively being called The Saplings) have been playing informally for a number of weeks on alternate Saturday mornings but last weekend they took on Old Loughts A and B teams in a small and very friendly tournament.

The first game against Old Loughts proved to be a tough battle for the Saplings, who despite a number of good chances and adventurous play fell behind early and eventually lost 0-4 to a well drilled side.

Not to be deterred, coach Philippa Leguen de Lacroix called her team in for a quick pep talk and a tweaking of tactics and they were ready to brave the Old Loughts Bs. The Saplings started brightly with Abigail and Cole quickly linking up with some excellent passing before Cole opened the scoring. Old Loughts fought back and despite some solid resistance, they found their equaliser. The Saplings in turn upped their game, with playmaker Kayden playing a lovely through ball to Abi to slot home. Again Old Loughts pressed, and despite excellent defending from and Oscar, drew level again. 2-2 with a minute left, the Saplings took to the offence with Kayden, Abi and Cole connecting well before Reggie found himself in space on the left to shoot and score the under 8s first ever winner.

The tournament was played in excellent spirit and is just a small part of the Waltham Forest Hockey Club Youth programme that encourages young people to keep active and grow through sport. Importantly it was a great start from The Saplings who are now looking forward to another set of games in the new year.