Royal High vs St Margaret's, Chile: A celebration of international sport and sisterhood

Senior 1st XI Hockey vs St Margaret’s School, Chile

It was a pleasure to welcome back our friends from St Margaret’s School, Chile, for another year. As always, they arrived well prepared for our annual hockey fixture and proved to be a strong, athletic and well-organised side.

The first quarter was closely contested, with Royal High gradually finding their rhythm after a long break from the hockey season, combined with a busy period of exams. St Margaret’s struck first with a well-taken open-play goal, using direct hockey and aerial balls to put our defence under pressure.

The visitors maintained their intensity throughout the second quarter and could have extended their lead further were it not for some outstanding saves from Flo in goal. Their pressure eventually paid off, however, as they added a second goal before half-time.

Royal High emerged for the second half with renewed energy and intent. Direct, pacey play from young gun Megan helped create several attacking opportunities, and Lily was quickest to react to a rebound, finishing calmly to reduce the deficit to 2–1.

Despite this resurgence, St Margaret’s superior match fitness - having recently completed their season - began to show. They added a third goal to secure the win, capping off a closely contested match played in an excellent competitive spirit. It was another valuable and character-building experience for our Senior 1st XI.

Off the field, the atmosphere was equally lively. A group of more than 60 visiting students from St Margaret’s brought incredible energy, proving wonderfully vocal supporters throughout the match. They were joined by Royal High students with Chilean connections, whose enthusiasm added to a strong sense of unity and celebration.

Some of our visitors also enjoyed a tour of the school, gaining insight into life at Royal High. A large group explored boarding as well as our Art, Drama and Design Technology departments, offering a well-rounded glimpse of school life.

Heidi-Jayne Boyes, Head, commented:
"It was a real pleasure to welcome our visitors from Chile again this year and fantastic to see the teams play with such skill and determination. Congratulations to St Margaret’s on their win. Opportunities like this remind us how sport brings people together across cultures and continents. It was a real celebration of sport and friendship, and we look forward to strengthening our relationship with St Margaret’s and welcoming them again next year."

Congratulations to St Margaret’s on their well-earned victory, and well done to our players for a fiercely competitive and spirited performance.