For the first time in its history, Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls has entered the competitive world of football.

On Tuesday, November 10, a newly formed and apprehensive squad of Year 11 to 13 pupils tied up their football boots and headed to Malvern College for their first ever fixture.

Coached and led by Augusta House Parent and HMSG geography teacher Lee Jones, the team was hoping their Sunday afternoon and late night practices would be enough to put in a solid performance on their first outing.

Malvern proved to be a resilient team. An early goal from the home side put HMSG on the back foot, but the enthusiastic team battled on to prove their worth.

“Being one-nil down after 30 seconds wasn’t ideal,” said team captain Caitlin.

“It was an eye-opener though and taught us to step up our game and push on.”

Malvern went on to score a further two goals in the game – the final point coming in the closing stages from a penalty kick.

“Even though we lost, we played so well together,” Caitlin added.

“We learnt a lot from it and everyone involved really enjoyed the experience.”

Mr Jones was thrilled with the girls’ effort on the pitch.

He said: “Tuesday was a massive achievement, absolutely huge.

“I am so proud of the girls, they were up for a challenge and put in an out-of-this-world performance.”

Player of the match, selected by Malvern College, went to HMSG girl Katie for her robust performance as goal keeper.

A big thank you must go to the Monmouth School boarders and teacher Mark Tamplin for their guidance and for lending the girls kit in the run up to their first big game.