WT Narwhals vs. South London Leeches

Location: Tooting Bec Outdoor Pool, Temp: Just above subzero (well, it felt like it)

In a dramatic showdown that will go down in the annals of water polo history (or at least in our WhatsApp chat), the WT Narwhals emerged victorious over the South London Leeches with a score of 9-6. Played in the chilly waters of Tooting Bec’s outdoor pool, the game tested the mettle of our heroes who braved the Arctic(like) conditions.

The Match

The Narwhals started strong, but were repeatedly thwarted throughout the game by refereeing decisions that can only be described as "creative." Penalties given on 6m and dubious majors were blended perfectly with many incidents of turning a blind eye to very overt physicality… (cough).

The Leeches brought 13 players, which felt a bit like cheating. But then again, they are named after a bloodsucking parasite, so we shouldn’t be surprised by their underhanded tactics. Despite their numbers, they couldn’t suck the life out of our spirit.

Despite our questionable full press, front-marking strategy (I think some of us thought it was optional), we still managed to showcase our prowess and superiority. Gio was the standout performer, netting four goals. Clearly, the open-air environment reminded him of his homeland, where the sun always shines, and water polo players never shiver. With the precision of a master painter and the passion of a pizza chef, Gio led the attach superbly. He claims the cold sharpened his focus, but we suspect it’s just because he’s really good.

Ed Gamble was a force to be reckoned with on the counterattack, channelling the speed and ferocity we have come to expect this season. Nick Shute added a touch of the sublime with a David Beckham-esque goal from halfway down the pool, just one of his four goals on the night. Also worth calling out Andy W for a fine penalty save which kept us in it.

The rest of the Narwhals? Well, let’s just say they were “bang average.” But, hey, every symphony needs its triangle players, right? 

We went into the fourth quarter tied at 6-6. With some dogged determination, we were able to make our class show and come out victorious 9-6.

Some Noteworthy (or Not) incidents to report on. Once Nick had called “Time out” on his counter, Rob decided mid-game that he’d had enough and took a metaphorical one-way trip to Portugal. We’ll miss his enthusiastic splashing. Equally, Zach secured himself a single major/penalty to avoid joining Rob. Zach is now under investigation by the “dubious major committee.” We’re not sure what he did, but it’s probably safe to assume it involved overly aggressive tackling.

Awards

• Man of the Match (unanimous): Gio, obviously. He doesn’t score often, but when he does, he scores loads! That is now 9 goals in 2 games vs. the Leeches. Flat-track bully anyone?

• Fluffer Award: A tie between Mickey and Nick Shute. Mickey, for getting countered on (a few times?), and Nick for calling a timeout during our counterattack. Tactical genius or sabotage? You decide.

• Moment of the Match: Nick Shute’s halfway goal. A thing of beauty. Kudos to Gio for preventing Nick from securing the infamous “triple crown” of Man of the Match, Fluffer, and Moment of the Match.