A GROUP of talented hockey players at a Colwyn Bay school produced a sensational effort to claim a regional tournament victory.

Rydal Penrhos’ U14 squad took part in the Eryri Schools’ Championship on Tuesday, March 5, which saw them compete for a place in the national finals later this year.

They began the tournament in impressive fashion to secure a 1-0 victory over Eirias High School thanks to a solitary strike from Year 7 sports scholar Jasmin Beckett-Donald, before turning in another stout defensive display in their 1-0 triumph over Ysgol Llangefni.

Emily Thomas netted the only goal of the game in their second win, and the same player proved to be the difference once again in Rydal Penrhos’ 1-0 victory over Ysgol Botwnnog with her second match-winning finish in as many games.

Their first and only loss of the tournament saw the group downed 1-0 by Ysgol Brynrefail, but they bounced back in fine style to clinch the crown with a 3-0 win over Ysgol Tywyn thanks to a brace from Thomas and a fine strike from Year 8 pupil Ariana Milligan.

The group will now begin preparations ahead of the national showcase, which will see them compete against other regional competition winners in pursuit of the coveted title.

Allen Boyd, director of sport at Rydal Penrhos, said: “This was an exceptional performance from our U14 side, who demonstrated their incredible talent and ability to work together as a cohesive unit throughout.

“To win the Eryri competition against high-quality opposition is a testament to how hard they have worked under Mrs Nicky Head and other coaching staff here at Rydal Penrhos, and hopefully they can add to the school’s rich history of national achievements later this year.”