Sedgefield Water Polo club travelled to Walsall for ASA National under 17 Championships for boys needing to win at least one out of two games to qualify for the semi final and finals at Manchester at the end of April.
In their first game they were up against Midland Champions Solihull. Sedgefield started well and were two goals up at the end of the first period and the score at half time saw Sedgefield in control 7-2. In the third period Sedgefield loose their concentration completely after a number of player exclusions and the Midland team stormed back to lead 8-7.
Fortunately in the final period Sedgefield regained their composure to once again finish the game in command and win 12-10.
In their second game after a 4 hour break they were against London Champions Kent Invicta who had beaten Sedgefield 9 -5 in the first round. Sedgefield started poorly and were 6-2 down after the first period. Sedgefield were still 9-4 down at halftime. In the third period Sedgefield finally found their form to storm back and end the period only 12-11 down.
In a frantic last period the lead was continuously changing until the last 5 seconds the London team clinched a 16-15 victory with a controversial goal.
This means Sedgefield will be up against Exeter in their semi final, the winners of the other group and favourites if Sedgefield want to get to the final. Sedgefield have proved they can beat anyone on their day but need to be at their best. Player of the tournament for Sedgefield was Isaac Wass.
The other members of the Sedgefield team were Richard Murray, Jake Plant, Kris Egginton, Connor Keeble, Ben Stephenson, Michael Cousins, Mathew Alderson, Daniel Armstrong, Mike Kelly, John Pratt and Ben Mason.
If you want to play this really tough team sport and are a strong swimmer you can get some details on 07818 554449.