Head’s Weekly Update

Boys 1st XI Football vs Shiplake College

After a season of mainly positives and clear moments of success, the first team had a disappointing afternoon against Shiplake on Saturday. In a first half where we performed below the level we are more than capable of, we went in at the break 3-0 down. We responded very well at the start of the second half and in the first 20 minutes creating 4 excellent scoring opportunities which we couldn’t quite convert. Unfortunately we couldn’t quite find the breakthrough as the game continued and ended up losing the game. We have 2 final games to play as we look forward and the expectation will certainly be to improve upon last Saturday’s result.

Mr James Purdue, Head of Football

Boys’ U18B Football vs Shiplake College

On Saturday afternoon the 2nd XI Football team played Shiplake College. We played some very good football in the first half and by virtue of “having a go” rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity in front of goal we scored 4 without reply. To help save some legs for Sunday’s rugby we took a player off and played with 10 on the pitch for the second half with the opposition also being reduced to 10 through injury. Two needless penalties and a fluked ricochet for the opposition saw us draw 3-3 in the second half running out 7-3 winners overall.

Mr Andy Sumner, Football Coach

Boys’ U18D Football vs Shiplake College

The Pangbourne U18D side showcased incredible character in a tale of two halves against Shiplake, ultimately falling 5-1 in a game of dramatic shifts. The match began with a shuffled lineup as Archie, the team’s defensive rock, heroically stepped into goal to cover for the ill Beau. However, a disjointed first half saw a clinical Shiplake side capitalise on Pangbourne’s lack of rhythm, slotting home five goals in a thunderous opening period.

Despite the dire score line, the "Mighty 4ths" refused to crumble, embodying their core mantra: never back down, never give up. Following a spirited half-time talk, a rejuvenated Pangbourne took the field with Archie back in his natural habitat at centre-back. His return solidified the "Red Wall," turning the defense into an impenetrable fortress that completely shut Shiplake out for the remainder of the contest.

The momentum shifted entirely as Will P took command of the midfield, distributing clinical passes to the wings Charlie, Ralph and Will for relentless attacking runs. This second-half dominance was rewarded with a well-deserved goal, allowing Pangbourne to "win" the second half 1-0. While the early deficit was too large to overcome, the team's optimism and teamwork in the face of adversity left supporters immensely proud.

Mr Joe Mills, Director of Sport

Boys’ U15A Football vs Dauntsey’s School

This was the first time I had the pleasure of being coach/manager to this team, and I was aware that whilst they were a strong squad, two of their strongest players would be absent having been selected for the 1st XI.

Right from the start I was impressed by their teamwork and their focus. They disembarked from the minibus with purpose and sent straight into an effective and urgent warm-up as soon as we had discussed our approach to the game. Our captain Dan, led with quiet authority and a calm and measured approach, and I was impressed by the balance of the team. Strong and powerful at the back with the highly assured (but not often troubled) Will P in goal, and with Tom S and Seb W finishing as our centre-back partnership, with pace and attacking fluency from the full backs Ethan A and Robbie B. Dan H and Tom H were the central defensive midfield pair, and both were resolute in defence, composed on the ball and always looking to get the ball forward when possible. Adam S was our creative midfield general, and he balanced mazy runs with incisive passes throughout the match. He also had an accomplished shot on him, and he was responsible for the two goals we scored in the first half. Up front we had pace and power with Jo H and Finn M on the wings and Jack P up front. A special mention must go to Harry G who showed great adaptability playing in multiple positions throughout the match as our rolling substitute, and he contributed admirably in all areas. A third goal in the second half gave us the win our dominance deserved, and I must say it was a great privilege and a pleasure to be a part of what was a very accomplished performance.

Dr Ian Hart, Football Coach

Boys’ U14A Football vs Dauntsey’s School

On Saturday, the U14As were very excited to play against Dauntsey’s. It was a game that they knew they could win. There is not a single player that did not play well, but as a team they just could not find each other with passes not quite being accurate enough. With 2 shots hitting the crossbar and 2 shots hitting the post, we definitely had enough chances but it was not to be. Sadly we lost 2-1 but the team put in an admirable peformance.

Mr Werner Nel, Football Coach

1st XI Girls Football vs Bradfield College

In a match defined by grit and physicality the 1st XI secured a historic comeback victory against Bradfield College. From the opening whistle, it was clear this wasn't going to be a friendly encounter; both sides threw themselves into challenges, making for a bruising, high-stakes atmosphere. Bradfield’s star forward proved to be a constant thorn in our side during the first half. Despite some solid defensive work, her clinical finishing allowed the visitors to capitalize on their momentum, netting twice to leave us 2-0 down at half time.

Whatever was said in the locker room worked wonders. The girls emerged for the second half with renewed intensity, refusing to let the scoreboard dictate their spirit. The breakthrough came ten minutes in. Laurel J found space in the box and tucked the ball home, shifting the momentum firmly in our favour. With the pressure mounting, Tiara P showcased her composure by levelling the score at 2-2, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

The tension reached a boiling point when a momentary lapse in concentration allowed Bradfield’s standout player to complete her hat-trick, putting the rivals back ahead 3-2. Most teams would have folded, but this 1st XI is built differently. With just five minutes remaining, Faith M produced a moment of pure magic. Spotting the keeper off her line, she unleashed a 30-yard rocket that flew into the back of the net a strike that will surely be talked about for seasons to come. At 3-3, the game seemed destined for a draw. However, Tiara P had other plans. With only two minutes left on the clock, she found a pocket of space and nestled the ball home for her second of the day, sealing a spectacular 4-3 victory.

Mr Frankie Rogan, Football Coach

Girls’ 2nd XI Football vs St Joseph’s

On Tuesday afternoon the Girls’ 2nd XI played St Joseph’s. Going into the game with no intel on the opposition, the girls were confident and ready to play. St Joseph’s scored in the first few minutes of the game, suggesting we were going to have to work hard for the win. The girls upfront worked incredibly hard, bringing the ball up the pitch and beating their defenders. We had a good few chances at goal but unfortunately none were successful, resulting in a lot of the game being back and forth between defence and attack. With some superb defending from Emily McF and Margot (with some humongous clearing kicks) we managed to keep the score at the end to 0-5. 

Big shout out to Posy who also made her debut after being injured since the start of the season and Tiara for showing off her unstoppable speed through the middle of the pitch.

Miss Izzy Peacock, Football Coach

Girls’ U15A Football vs Bradfield

The girls were away at Bradfield last weekend. Knowing Bradfield were a good team, the girls were switched on and hungry for the win. Having spoken to their coach, we learnt that the Bradfield team had won all their games, with most being in the double figures for goals. This did not worry us as we went onto the pitch in full confidence. The game commenced and we quickly realised that we were very even in ability to Bradfield. At half time, the score was 0-0! It was an incredible first half with many shots at goal from all players up front, we just could not get it past their goalkeeper. Onto the second half, with the girls still hungry and deserving of the win. After 10 minutes Bradfield scored and sadly after 5 minutes they scored again. During the second half we had triple the shots at goal than Bradfield made but frustratingly just could not get the ball past their formidable goalkeeper. The girls played exceptionally well and deserved a goal, if not more. The Bradfield coach at the end of the game said how fantastic the game was overall and how hard we pushed their Bradfield team - particularly their defence. Well done to all those who played (especially as we had no subs), next time we will get that deserved win!

Miss Izzy Peacock, Football Coach

Dunbar Cross Country

On Monday, four Dunbar boys travelled to Thorngrove school for their annual Cross Country event. The event was structured as a relay, with each athlete running a 1km loop through the fields and woods of Thorngrove. JJ started first, setting us a good position in the middle of the pack, next it was Jago, who soared past many teams getting us into a top position. Seb was next, holding strong and making sure no one passed him, lastly Noah. The last loop was now very spread out with huge gaps between runners, Noah ran and closed fantastically the gap between 4th and 3rd, sadly we were not able to get that 3rd position. The boys had a fantastic run earning them the 4th sport (out of 8). It was a great afternoon out and I look forward to taking part in more cross country events next season.

Miss Izzy Peacock, PE Teacher

U13A/B Girls’ Football vs Thorngrove

In a really competitive fixture card against St Neots and Holme grange in a triangular tournament, we played 2 draws, one defeat and one win. This was the best showing of the Dunbar girls this season, demonstrating much improved team cohesion and technical skill from the girls.

Mr Fabrice Vie, Football Coach

Dunbar Rugby vs Sherfield School

Pangbourne U13A’s edged out Sherfield School in a thrilling 6-5 victory defined by clinical attacking and resilient defense. Christian and Oscar headlined the scoring with a blistering solo run and determined support play, respectively, while George facilitated the attack with two sharp assists. Despite Sherfield's persistent pressure, Elboy and Seb secured the win with goal-line, try-saving tackles, capping off a high-intensity performance that showcased Pangbourne’s composure under pressure.

Mr Alex Cheng, Rugby Coach

On Wednesday the Dunbar B team rugby played against Sherfield. The boys won by 4 tries, they played some good rugby and they ran hard. They really enjoyed themselves and were extremely happy to get the win. The boys were all very positive during and after the game.

Mr Callum Smith, Rugby Coach

U18 Rugby 7s Hereford

The 1st VII showcased a masterclass in "fast, physical, and exciting" rugby at the revamped Marches 7s hosted by Hereford Cathedral School. The boys lit up the group stages, securing clinical victories over Barr’s Hill School, King’s Rochester, and Lathallan School to advance comfortably. While they ultimately missed out against a powerful Cathedral School Llandaff side, the squad’s outstanding performance in both attack and defense proved they belong among the tournament's elite.

Mr Ben Sainsbury, Director of Rugby

U16 Rugby 7s vs Reading Bluecoat

Last week the U16 Rugby 7s squad enjoyed a successful day out in their first tournament of this Half Term at Reading Blue Coat school. In a highly competitive group with Wellington College, Reading Blue Coat and local rivals The Oratory, the boys came away with performances to be proud of, especially as a group new to playing with each other. In their first game they had a slow start, letting in some easy tries early on to Wellington. However, the second half was a different game altogether with the team grouping together to make a fantastic comeback. Dylan B and Owen L were instrumental in bringing up the points tally for Pangbourne, which eventually saw Wellington win by only two tries in what was a great game. The boys were not given an easy ride as they had Blue Coat straight after Wellington and once again gave an excellent showing of themselves. Pangbourne surprised themselves by going up two tries early on and going into half-time comfortably ahead. Despite this, injuries and fatigue played their part in allowing Blue Coat back into the game, and with two stand out players in their squad, the hosts were able to snatch a win at the end after an end to end second half. It was The Oratory game that was most pleasing for Pangbourne on the day as we ran in six tries and kept them to a nil score, seeing us finish third in our pool and the boys taking home some serious bragging rights.

Mr Michael Cooke, Rugby Coach

U18 Rugby 7’s Embley

Pangbourne College's 1st VII showed great spirit and determination at last week's Embley School 7s competition, ultimately securing a respectable 5th place. Their campaign began with a strong performance against the hosts, Embley School. After a tightly contested first half, Pangbourne found their rhythm, pulling away to a comfortable victory.

Next up was a challenging match against Bryanston School. In a hard-fought contest, Pangbourne narrowly missed out, suffering a disappointing loss despite a valiant effort. This was followed by another tough fixture against the eventual tournament winners, Portsmouth Grammar School, where Pangbourne unfortunately came up short.

However, the team rallied for their final match, putting in a fantastic performance against Poole Grammar School. Running in four impressive tries, Pangbourne secured a convincing win, ending the day on a positive note and claiming 5th place in the competition. The team's resilience and ability to bounce back were clear highlights of the day.

Mr Michael Cooke, Rugby Coach

Girls’ 1st XI Hockey vs St Edward’s

Our 1st XI hockey girls played a development friendly against St Edward’s on Tuesday. This was a fantastic opportunity for the girls to play some competitive hockey during Lent term and they excelled in doing so. Despite not having a proper training session beforehand, they played like a team and scored 2 excellent team goals. The girls came away with the win and the final score was 2-1.

The girls played very well together which is a promising start for the new hockey season in September.

Miss Georgia Jones, Director of Hockey