South Reading Vixens

We enjoyed it so much last year, we had to do it again.

Another Tenby trip, another early start as the Vixens convoy streamed down the M4 for their annual tour and another meeting with old friends Crickhowell Panthers. A longer than anticipated journey resulted in a late arrival, with the Manager deciding to take the scenic route through Tenby. The punctual Panthers took it very well though, and it wasn’t long before the Under 13’s took to the field. The Vixens soon shook off their travel tiredness and their experience of the larger pitch started to show through. The girls romped to a 4-0 victory, although the Panthers adapted very well from their normal 7 a side format to make it an enjoyable, competitive game.

In the second match the Under 11’s formed the backbone of the side, and ran out winners as they hit three second half goals without reply. It was a sound display, complemented by aggressive performances from youngsters Jord and Sinead with cameo roles for Chantelle and Sis up front.

With the Vixens leading the series by 2-0 it was up to the parents to help the Under 16’s record a clean sweep for the English. Sadly they failed miserably in their task, and with the Panthers out for revenge their coach Marco put in an outstanding performance to secure a narrow half time lead. Larry restored some pride for the Vixens as he notched up an equaliser after the break, but it was not long before Crickhowell were back in front. At this point the Reading team became aware that their opponents had somewhat more than the regulation eleven players on the pitch, and threw on reinforcements in the form of the Under 13’s. Although this raised the standard of play considerably, there was no way back for the Vixens as the Panthers had also held back additional reserves who were now committed to the fray and the last ten minutes were played out with 30 a side.

With honours shared, it was time to head for Manorbier beach. The sun decided to join the party, and the hardier girls and a couple of parents made it in to the sea. Bravery awards went to Paul, Bryony and Ellie, who had obviously got up early enough to have their Ready Brek and had to be almost dragged out as evening approached. Eventually with the Vixens all retrieved it was off to the hostel for the traditional melee as the girls piled in to secure the best bunks. The Hayes and Nurse catering team took over, excelling themselves as they provided no less than three choices of food to the assembled masses. Some competition between the cooks resulted in score being kept between the chicken korma and spaghetti bolognese, but everyone was a winner and Carl even washed up afterwards!

It had been a long day but the girls weren’t finished yet, and it was down to the water for the eagerly awaited Beach Party. Initially hampered by a total lack of anything combustible, the Vixens spirit shone through as search parties were despatched to gather up a variety of burnable material. Chief fire raisers Des and Chloe soon had a good blaze going, and the rest of the evening was spent chatting whilst darkness fell.

The next morning it was off to Oakwood – rollercoaster time! The adventurous ones headed for white knuckle rides Vertigo, Megafobia and The Bounce, with others just as happy with the more sedate attractions. Once again, the short queues and friendly staff made it a great time, and everyone had plenty of rides. Larry brightened everyone’s day still further as he came off the Waterfall in mid surf, requiring an immediate change of clothes. Finally it was time to head for Tenby and an opportunity for the girls to spend some pocket money in the endless array of novelty shops. Armed with an ample supply of rock and fudge and a wide assortment of plastic items, it was then back to the hostel for another catering miracle from Tina and Janet before the evening’s main event – Quiz Night! Question master Jason came armed with an ample supply of questions for each age group, to provide an exciting challenge for everyone. Some of the mums could even name England’s opponents in the 1966 World Cup Final! A complicated bonus structure meant a slight delay in announcing the results, but eventually Alana’s aptly named Rangatangs were confirmed as worthy winners.

The last day dawned, and after packing up the Vixens entourage headed for Heatherton. Just as many girls and parents had got kitted out for the Go Karts, the heavens opened for ten minutes of torrential rain. This didn’t dampen spirits though, as the combination of slick tyres and a wet track made for an exciting time. The Schumacher award went to Jason who was a clear winner, showing a ruthless streak as he forced his way through the field. The baseball, bumper boats, archery and shooting were also popular as the time just flew by, before the weary Vixens eventually had to head for home.

Thanks go to Jason for once again organising such a superb event. Also to Tina and Janet for their excellent catering, and to Tony for driving a minibus full of excited players with the radio at full volume! Well done to all.

Saturday photos	Sunday photos	Monday photos