THE HARROVIAN VOL. CXXXIV NO.14
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THE HARROVIAN
VOL. CXXXIV NO.14 January 29, 2022
BUDDHISM SOCIETY English teacher opened his mind to a colourful array of cultures
through the medium of books. Being the first book WMAL
Inaugural Lecture, WMAL, ‘Impressions from afar had read since Willard Price’s South Sea Adventure, Graham
close-up’, OH Room, 17 January Greene’s The Power and the Glory was truly eye-opening. His
newfound passion for books led him to the world of Japanese
On 17 January, the Head Master delivered talk as the inaugural culture: the Haiku poem, Zen Buddhism and the Japanese Kōan
speaker of the newly founded Buddhism Society, with the – irrational, ambiguous and paradoxical statements designed
title: ‘Impressions from afar close-up’ – a very Buddhist title only to be understood by “unpeeling yourself from reality”.
indeed. We know there is much more to WMAL than his job
title, and he is genuinely an incredible speaker. A collection
of boys and staff either attend “close-up” in the OH Room or
“afar”, accessing through Teams. The talk proved to be inspiring
from beginning to end, living up to high expectations, with
many thought-provoking and fascinating ideas presented to the
audience. The talk promised to be – and certainly was – not
only about his interactions with Buddhism but also his personal
stories and experiences during his gap year. In his lecture,
WMAL covered the fundamental differences and similarities
between the Christian faith and Buddhism, his unique gap-
year experience, his falling in love with books (catalysed by
his “extraordinary offbeat English teacher”) and the cultural
highlights and nuances surrounding the Buddhist faith and
Nepal in the 1980s.
These revelations were simple stepping stones that led WMAL
to choose his destination for a year away from Manchester –
Nepal. WMAL detailed his dangerous excursions from white-
water rafting to long treks along the ridges surrounding Mount
Everest and his involvement in a boarding school ten miles
north of Kathmandu, set up by the British Council. There he
taught science to 600 boarders, which, he hinted, had significant
effects on his career choices today. WMAL explained that,
instead of having a chapel, there was a temple in the middle of
the school grounds, which a Hindu priest would intermittently
visit. It was made apparent that Kathmandu had developed a
unique Newari culture in which there is a mixture of Buddhism
and Hinduism, so much so that there is no clear divide between
the two: in fact, residents do not identify as one or the other
but simply as ‘religious’.
Before delving into his gap-year experiences, WMAL WMAL explained that to ask a resident of Kathmandu how
explained the diversity in culture and heritage that we are so many gods they believed in would be futile, as their response
lucky to experience here at Harrow and the comfort we should would change every time the question were asked.
find in having our own unique backgrounds. “You should feel In his travels, WMAL experienced a Buddhist prayer meeting.
comfortable to bring your culture along with all of the things He noted that its key attributes were its bellowing trumpet noises
that come in that wonderful array of bags that come out of the and the “clattery clash of the cymbals and drums”. There was
backs of cars and taxis,” he said. This served as an insightful an evident difference in the formality of going to church and
and model description of how we should go about our lives going to the temple. The temple can be visited continuously
at Harrow. throughout the day, undisrupted by the confines of one’s work
Firstly, WMAL described the predominant cultural monotony life. One could spend time at a prayer wheel when one chose
of Manchester in the late 1980s. This, however, was not portrayed to. Yet another contrasting element is that religious meetings
negatively: Christianity was prominent in the Manchester are always outdoors. WMAL explained that “we put God in a
community, with a minority of Jewish people and the occasional building” whereas, in Buddhism, prayer is available anywhere.
Hindu family. This, naturally, limited the average Mancunian’s Upon his visit to a monastery, WMAL participated in a
cultural knowledge. Fortunately, to WMAL’s luck, his eccentric prayer ritual with dozens of young monks and described the
January 29, 2022 T H E H A R R O V I A N
meditation as “stripping him away from reality. Hours could were seen as Xinjiang’s “reconstruction”. It was when, under the
have been minutes, and time had become timeless”. He related Hunan army, that the administration resettled tens of thousands
this experience to the experience necessary to understand the of people into the region, including new Chinese settlers, and
seemingly incomprehensible Kōan riddles. established a regime of cultural assimilation with the locals.
From 1884 onward, the region was formally established as a
province in China.
Dong then moved on to the history of Xinjiang in the 20th
century. In 1912, the newly proclaimed Republic of China
inherited Xinjiang after the collapse of the Qing Dynasty.
However, the governor Yang Zengxin (in office 1912–28) was
a monarchist who ruled in the imperial style. He was known
as a tyrant who ruled in the imperial style. In 1928, Yang
was assassinated and replaced by his deputy, Jin Shuren. Jin
attempted to rule more directly, leading to widespread discontent.
In 1949, Xinjiang’s military and government surrendered to the
People’s Liberation Army, and the region became a province in
the People’s Republic of China. The new government described
this event as peaceful liberation. Xinjiang was then granted a
unique title. The Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps,
also known as XPCC or Bingtuan, was a unique state-owned
economic and paramilitary organisation in the Xinjiang Uyghur
Autonomous Region of China. The XPCC had administrative
authority over several medium-sized cities as well as settlements
and farms in Xinjiang. However, due to the disruption of the
Cultural Revolution, the XPCC was dissolved in 1975.
After talking about the history of Xinjiang, Dong moved on
As WMAL’s lecture came to a close, he concluded with a to talk about the Uygurs. The Uyghurs were a Turkic ethnic
fundamental answer to the following question: “what are the most minority group that originated from and are culturally affiliated
fundamental similarities between Christianity and Buddhism?” with central and eastern Asia. The Uyghurs have traditionally
His response mirrored the fundamental beliefs that our society inhabited a series of oases scattered across the Taklamakan desert
should hold – a message of compassion. “It unites us more within the Tarim Basin. These oases have historically existed
than anything else… you can tell the most about a society by as independent states or were controlled by many civilizations,
how it treats the people amongst them who are less fortunate”. including China, the Mongols, the Tibetans and various Turkic
To conclude, WMAL, the inaugural speaker for the Buddhism societies. The Uyghurs gradually started to become Islamised
Society, gave an exceptional talk on the fundamental workings in the 10th century and most Uyghurs identified as Muslims
of Buddhism, his gap-year experience and, as an underlying by the 16th century. Islam has since played an essential role
message, just like the Dalai Lama once said, “Be kind whenever in Uyghur culture and identity.
possible. It is always possible. And be kinder than is necessary”. Moving on swiftly, Dong touched upon his personal experiences
For more information about the Buddhism Society, or if in Xinjiang before he moved to Beijing at a very young age.
you wish to get involved, please contact Fr Tivey and Jerry Dong showed some photos of the traditional Uyghur dishes,
Qi, The Park. such as noodles, Xinjiang naans and dapanji – Uyghur chicken.
Dong then went on to explain the current situation in Xinjiang.
The Xinjiang internment camps are officially called vocational
education and training centers by the government of China.
Camps were operated by the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous
Region government and its Chinese Communist Party provincial
ORIENTAL SOCIETY committee. Dong suggested that the current situation in Xinjiang
Kevin Dong, The Knoll, ‘A history of Xinjiang; China’s was the difference between the Han Chinese and the local
ethnic minorities’, MLS 17, 13 January Uyghurs. There is little connection between the two groups
of people. The Uyghurs also dream of being independent of
The Oriental Society began the new year with a lecture given by the CCP, which challenges the Peoples’ Republic of China’s
Kevin Dong, The Knoll, which was on a topic that has been a claim on the Xinjiang province. A more recent issue that Dong
matter of contention on the news: Xinjiang. The topic of Xinjiang brought up was the Xinjiang cotton boycott. In March last year,
was close to Dong’s heart as his family originates from there. several major brands expressed concern over allegations that
In fact, his grandparents still live there today. Dong explained the predominantly Muslim Uighur minority group members are
the history of Xinjiang succinctly and clearly to the society. being used for forced labour. Some companies’ online shops were
Dong began his lecture by explaining the 17–18th century blocked and their stores have vanished from some digital maps.
history of the region. In 1759, after nearly a century of war China initially targeted H&M and Nike, but that has widened
with the Zunghars, the Qing dynasty established control over to include Burberry, Adidas and Converse, among others. The
the region that comprises modern-day Xinjiang. From this time Chinese public saw these big firms as enemies, boycotting these
onward, the region was often referred to as “Xinjiang”, which brands and instead of buying Chinese clothing brands such as
literally meant “new territory”. Then, in 1762, the Qing dynasty Li-Ning and Anta. Top celebrities in China, including singer
established a military administration for the region. This meant Eason Chan, movie star Wang Yibo and Zhang Yixing, among
that a general oversaw indirect rule, while the government others, have since said they would sever ties with some of the
was conducted mainly by local Turkic and Mongol officials. brands who expressed concerns over the Xinjiang cotton and
There was then a time of instability as a “Muslim uprising” in have ended their deals as brand ambassadors.
1864 broke out in the oasis of Kucha. This was due to years In his final remarks, Dong expressed his own views of the
of dissatisfaction with the new taxes, and fears that the Qing situation. He believes that Xinjiang is a crucial geopolitical
administration was planning to massacre Muslims. In 1876, a state. Without a doubt, it is an important trading route and
Hunan-based army reconquered the region. The following years it has a plethora of natural resources. Dong believes that if
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T H E H A R R O V I A N January 29, 2022
Xinjiang had gone independent, other provinces such as Tibet is passed through the cephalic vein and the subclavian vein
and Hong Kong would follow suit. This worried the Chinese to the heart, where it will remain, with the whole procedure
government as they responded by increasing the police force in taking around 1.5 hours. Ordonez Velasco explained that when
Xinjiang. Many thanks to RMT for hosting the talk and Dong the battery level falls it is necessary only to replace the device:
for delivering such a fascinating and insightful talk. the cable can be left and reattached to the new device.
Ordonez Velasco followed up on this by describing how life
with an ICD can differ and be difficult. As with anything metal,
metal detectors are commonly a problem for people with an
ICD. It is also possible that the device may trigger anti-theft
systems at shops, thus people with ICDs are advised to walk
with haste through these machines. It is also important to avoid
MEDICAL SOCIETY any strong magnetic fields, as these can disrupt the function of
Sebastian Ordonez Velasco, Bradbys, ‘Implantable the device, and one must be extra vigilant to avoid any trauma
cardioverter defibrillator’, 18 January to the chest area which could disrupt the ICD.
To conclude Ordonez Velasco briefly talked about some
manufacturers of the device; there are three from the US and
The Medical Society gathered to hear a fascinating lecture
one from Germany, although the German brand is used less
entitled ‘Implantable cardioverter defibrillator – the device
frequently as the US brands have better battery lives. The entire
that saves lives’. This was delivered by Sebastian Ordonez
cost of having this installed is £20,000 to £50,000, which is
Velasco, Bradbys. The delivery was clear and concise, and the
usually covered by insurance.
content was jam-packed with fascinating information about a
The Medical Society came away with a new appreciation
brilliant device.
for the implantable cardioverter defibrillator, a device which
many of us had never heard of before. It was an excellent talk
which was thoroughly enjoyed. Many thanks of course to JAA
and the Medical Society for organising.
CHESS
School v Highgate School, Won, Area Cup
In the first round of the regional finals of the National Schools
Chess Championship, Harrow was drawn away against Highgate
School B team.
After some trouble finding a parking space and finding their
The talk started with Ordonez Velasco explaining cardiac way in, the 1st VI settled in Highgate’s Sir Martin Gilbert Library
arrythmia. Tachycardia is when the heart is beating too fast and for a battle of wit and creativity against their opponents. With
bradycardia is too slow, both of which can result in cardiac arrest. an hour for each player on the clock, JPBH’s instructions to
He then went on to explain the patterns in various cardiograms “think first, move second” have never been more important.
displaying tachycardia and bradycardia. First blood went to Aditya Asnani, West Acre, on board
Ordonez Velasco went on to discuss the type of person who 3, who played a fine combination to win a piece and calmly
benefits from having this device. Generally, it is reserved for converted the material advantage to secure the win. Shortly after
those who are at high risk of having a heart attack, such as Asnani’s win, captain Dylan Winward, Lyon’s, on board 4, left
those who have already had a heart attack or those who have his queen in a trap and was fortunate to come out of it only
conditions such as coronary heart disease. a piece down. This was enough, however, and Winward was
He then briefly described the history behind the device. unable to withstand the pressure from his opponent, eventually
Before the ICD, the only option for resuscitation was an conceding the game when mate was clearly inevitable.
automated external defibrillator which came with its own set After some confusion with an illegal move, Alex Locke, West
of disadvantages. Dr Michel Mirowski developed the device Acre, was able to press home a two-pawn advantage on board
for the first uses in the 1980s, his inspiration coming from his 6 to take the lead for Harrow once again, before Ahaan Asnani,
former boss’s experiences with heart issues. West Acre, blundered a piece in the endgame and immediately
Ordonez Velasco then described the evolution of the ICD. resigned a lost position to leave the score level once more.
At first, the device weighed 225g and was 209cm3 in volume. So, fittingly, it all came down to the top boards. A real war
In recent years, it has shrunk in weight and volume to 65g and of attrition was taking place on the top board, with Liron
36cm3, which allows for a far less obtrusive procedure and Chan, The Grove, a pawn up in a finely poised endgame. When
makes living with an ICD easier. The components of the device his opponent made a subtle error Chan made no mistake in
include a high voltage transformer and capacitator, as well as capitalising, establishing a supported passed pawn that was
an active fixation screw that is fixed to the right ventricle of guaranteed to promote and prompting his opponent to concede.
the heart. This screw monitors the heart and relays back to With the match actually already decided (even if we drew 3-3,
the main unit through a lead in a vein. When irregular cardiac the tiebreak rules would have fallen in Harrow’s favour), the final
arrythmia occurs, a life-saving shock of around 30–40 joules is game to finish was Philip Truscott’s, Elmfield, on board 2. His
applied to the right ventricle wall through the screw in order to endgame was also very finely balanced, but Trustcott was able
restore heart activity. The device can give up to eight shocks. to swap rooks to simplify the position and then force through
He continued with an explanation about the surgical procedure his own passed pawn. His opponent, seeing the inevitability
required to install the device. A small incision is made on the of the finale, also laid down her queen in concession, leaving
chest wall, which is where the main unit is installed. The wire Harrow winners by 4 points to 2.
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January 29, 2022 T H E H A R R O V I A N
For the first time playing over-the-board chess in nearly two Marre informed the worried crowd that there is another option.
years, there were many positives to take away from this match. The ‘coke addict’ himself. Rishi Sunak. This man was famously
The team looks forward to the regional semi-final later this term. against Marcus Rashford, who lead the ‘Free School Meals’
movement, even more than your average Conservative Party
member. Sunak, while not being as likely as Truss to get the
role, is the most likely to win the next general election for the
Conservatives. He currently controls the budget of the nation
and is in hot water after implementing certain programmes
CRAWLEY SOCIETY such as test and trace. After the 5 foot tall lecturer had finished
Otto Marre, The Grove, ‘Boris lies, people die’, mocking Sunak’s height, he moved on.
19 January Marre moved onto anouther ‘coke addict’, Michael Gove,
who Marre stated was lucky not to have been jailed, and is a
Last Wednesday Otto Marre, The Grove, one of our prime possible candidate for the Leader of the Conservatives. With a
particularly politically pointed Removes, delivered the inaugural long history of Cabinet work, this party animal called Dominic
lecture of the Crawley Society, a society for current affairs, Cummings ‘a man of honour and integrity’.
on whether we were about to see the end of Boris Johnson’s The penultimate of the listed candidates for the top job is
career, and who may replace him. Dominic Raab. This noble man, who called the British people
idle, refused to leave a sun lounger to save lives in Afghanistan.
We were also strangely shown an image of Raab licking his
finger in a Covid-19 briefing. Marre showed us that all of these
candidates were selfish and power hungry without any of the
maturity that tends to come with power.
Saving the best till last (but not in Marre’s opinion) came Priti
Patel. While she, as with the other candidates, hasn’t published
a manifesto, her biggest policy is clear. She is certainly against
immigration. This ‘anti-immigration immigrant’ has suggested
such things like sending immigrants back to France or even
shipping them 4,000 miles away!
After ploughing through the seemingly hopeless hopes for the
Conservative Party, the lecture evolved into a lively discussion.
All sorts of questions were asked and answered around the room.
After every inch of information was explored, the only thing
one was left wondering was ‘what about Jacob Rees-Mogg?’
Marre began by literally listing the various failures of Mr
Johnson (not the MLS one). He painted the picture of a pathetic
prime minister who “couldn’t run a bath’ let alone the nation”. DEBATING SOCIETY
This long list included his increasingly public gatherings that, Nehru Cup, 22 January
according to the PM, originally didn’t happen, then were work
meetings, then simply a legal party, and finally a party that had Harrow hosted the inaugural Nehru Cup, a British parliamentary-
broken the rules but without him knowing (despite the fact he style debating competition featuring top schools such as
wrote the rules). Marre convicingly potrayed Mr Johnson as a Winchester and St Paul’s. Six Harrovians made the arduous
pointless, and thoughtless buffoon who would never optionally journey to the West Street Meeting Room for a day of fierce
resign – and apparently the prime minister isn’t any different! online debating and stressful competition administration.
However, there is hope in the souls of those Anti-Boris Harrovians Whilst Aakash Aggarwal and Dylan Winward, both Lyon’s,
as the 1922 Committee (when sent a certain number of letters) paced around the control room, trying to configure the tournament
could hold a vote of no confidence in the prime minister. website, resolve technical issues and ensure a smooth running of
Marre then explained that the Conservative and Unionist Party, the tournament, the four debaters began brainstorming arguments
under the cruel rule of Alexander de Pfeffel, was doomed to for their first motion – ‘This house would reduce income tax
fail, and that it has already started to. The Red Wall that Boris rates for women’. Harrow’s second pair, Ezekiel Akinsanya,
claimed from Corbyn’s Labour has begun to fall, meaning there Lyon’s and Edward Blunt, Elmfield, got off to a strong start,
will be far fewer seats for the Conservatives next election. wielding their economic knowledge and strong speaking skills
Apparently the Green Party may infringe upon some of the to achieve first place in their debate.
Tories’ safe ‘Middle England’ seats. Marre even played a video After prompt tabulation from Aggarwal and a brief address
of one Conservative MP who was part of the Red Wall who from Winward, the 12 pairs of debaters from various schools
defected to Labour after Johnson’s misdemeanours. Labour, as were back to intellectual combat, arguing whether ‘This house
a result, may be able to gain a majority. believes that victimless crimes should not be prosecuted’.
The possibility of a change in leadership may make a Harrow’s first team had better luck this round, with Haiwei Li,
difference to the destiny of Westminster. Marre told us that the Bradbys, and William Wauchope, The Knoll, placing second
first ‘idiot’ and most likely to acquire the prime position is Liz against a fierce St Paul’s side.
Truss. We were told distinctly little of her politics, but it was In the third round, Harrow’s second pair again placed second
said that she was a powerful member of the Tories’ Pro-EU arguing the motion ‘This house would require all people to work
faction, and that she has a rather liberal outlook but, so that in their countries of origin for a period of time after graduating
her career could move forward, she recently became the Brexit from university’, defeated only by a strong Winchester team.
Minister. Marre went on to state that the former Education With only the Grand Final remaining, the suspense over
Minister is very unintelligent, and that she has refused to take Zoom was palpable. The administrative team crunched the
various spelling tests. Marre also claimed that many of her numbers and announced the draw: teams from St Mary’s
photographs are in fact, faked. Ascot, St Paul’s and Winchester would be advancing, as well
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T H E H A R R O V I A N January 29, 2022
as Harrow’s second pair. The standard of debating was very to power, he was assassinated by his second in command and
high as the teams considered the motion ‘This house would adopted son Lü Bu. This assassination broke a coalition, leaving,
admit Ukraine into NATO’, drawing upon their knowledge in the north, Cao Cao and Yuan Shou the two most powerful
of international relations and politics to produce compelling warlords. Both warlords were able to provid protection to the
cases. Ultimately, Harrow’s external adjudicator, Mr Shaughan emperor so had large armies. Cao Cao spent 196 to 200 AD
Dolan, determined that Winchester produced the strongest case, bringing the other northern warlords to heel, and Yuan Shou
awarding them the very first Nehru Cup title. realised he lost the emperor due to his inability. With the
Harrow enjoyed a highly successful day of debating: Li and emperor, Cao Cao was able to declare laws and legislations.
Wauchope placed joint third out of 24 debaters on individual Cao Cao realised as early as 199 AD that he needed an
speaker points – a testament to their powerful rhetoric and important fort south of the Yellow River as his forces were
quick thinking. Akinsanya and Blunt broke through to the Grand 40,000 compared to Yuan Shou’s combined forces of around
Finals, and ultimately placed third out of 12 elite teams – also a 110,000. Liu Bei rebelled against Cao Cao and seized Xu
major achievement. Finally, Aggarwal and Winward successfully Province after killing Che Zhou (車冑), Cao Cao’s appointed
tabulated and administrated such a smooth-running tournament, Inspector (刺史) of Xu Province. Yuan Shao tried to use the
standing out against a backdrop of Oxford and Cambridge opportunity to start a campaign south, but was daunted by Yu
tournaments falling behind by up to three hours in recent years. Jin. Therefore, he personally led the expedition against Liu Bei,
SMK is to be thanked for his invaluable support in enabling leaving his lieutenant Yue Jin in command of Dushi. This left
and hosting the tournament, as well as for his adjudication. the northern border of Yan exposed – an opportunity Yuan Shao
Likewise, thanks are owed to Mr Dolan, Mr Livingstone could scarcely afford to ignore. With Cao Cao absent, Yuan felt
(Winchester), and Ms Maurizio (St Mary’s Ascot) for their he could easily seize control of Yan Province.
help with adjudication. Harrow looks forward to hosting the Despite Cao Cao’s absence, the entrenched forces of Guandu
Nehru Cup again next year. repeatedly rebuffed Yuan Shao’s initial attempts. Though they
were vastly outnumbered, with only 2000 defenders in all, the
narrow confines of the ford negated Yuan Shao’s numerical
advantage. Liu Bei’s rebellion against Cao Cao disintegrated
almost immediately, with the traitorous warlord fleeing first
south, and ultimately into the protection and employ of Yuan
THE TREVELYAN SOCIETY Shao. Rather than directly helping the besieged fort, Cao Cao
led his armies in a feint upriver toward Yan Ford. This fooled
Jerry Qi, The Park, ‘The Battle of Guandu – the
Yuan Shao into believing Cao’s intent was to cross the river
turning point for Cao Cao in the Three Kingdoms and attack his main camp. Cao Cao double-backed to strike
period in Chinese History’, 20 January at the enemy forces outside Boma and lift their siege of the
fortress. Cao Cao’s army utterly routed the besiegers at Boma,
The Trevelyan Society was pleased to welcome Jerry Qi, The and during the battle Yuan Shao’s general in charge of the
Park, who gave an enlightening talk on Teams about ‘The Battle siege was killed.
Guandu – the turning point for Cao Cao in the Three Kingdoms Guandu and its fortress not only lay on the southern bank of
period in Chinese History’. The lecture was concise yet packed the Bian River south of the Yellow River, but was also ringed
with information on a subject for which history volumes seem by a series of massive earthwork fortifications. These functioned
to be lacking in sources, as well as informing us about a part as trenches, holding defenders within each concentric ring.
of history that perhaps many people know little of. As Cao Cao countered Yuan Shao’s every move, the Battle of
Guandu devolved into a stalemate. This was not, however, to
Cao Cao’s advantage, as his province was rapidly running low
on food and supplies. Without swift relief, starvation would force
his defeat. Yuan Shao’s advisor Ju Shou argued that Wuchao,
being their important supply depot, was too lightly guarded.
Cao Cao led 5,000 infantry and cavalry to attack Wuchao after
leaving Cao Hong and Xun You in charge of his main camp at
Guandu. Cao Cao’s army disguised itself as a reinforcement
unit from Yuan Shao and attacked Wuchao. Chunyu Qiong’s
initial defences were overrun, and he retreated to hold his forts,
which Cao Cao attacked and set on fire. When word reached
Yuan Shao that his granary had again been destroyed, rather
than attempting to save his supplies, he committed almost his
entire army to storming the defenses at Guandu and achieving
an immediate breakthrough.
As hopelessness swept the camps, two more commanders
defected to Cao Cao, causing even more despair and confusion.
It was at this moment that Cao Cao’s counterassault came.
The talk began with Qi giving us a brief on the history of Launching his full strength at the exhausted and unsuspecting
the three kingdoms and how one of his main sources for this, enemy camps, 20,000 Yan soldiers ploughed into Yuan Shao’s
written in around 1300AD, about 1000 years after the event, disorganised ranks, broke their lines and caused the panicked
was called Romance of the Three Kingdoms. He talked about soldiers to rout. By the end of the day, by Cao Cao’s own
the Han dynasty that had endured four centuries of war but, (perhaps overblown) estimation to Emperor Xian, more than
as was the trend then, the leaders became corrupt and the 70,000 of Yuan’s 110,000-strong army lay dead, and the rest
power lay with the regional warlords. The rebellions lead to had been captured. Most of these captives would subsequently
General Dong Zhou gaining a lot of power and he was tasked be buried alive by Cao Cao’s order.
with restoring the realm. By 189 AD, he did that, but burnt After all this we came away from the lecture with a better
down the eastern capital and barricaded himself in the western understanding of this topic. It was an overall excellent overview
capital, seizing power for himself. on the topic of the Three Kingdoms. Many thanks to the
Qi proceeded to tell us that, only two years after his rise Trevelyan Society and to Qi for an expert lecture.
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January 29, 2022 T H E H A R R O V I A N
METROPOLITAN
answer of “financial reasons”. Someone cracked a dry joke
about where our £50,000 goes each year, obviously too naïve
to clock that things are not so straightforward.
Now the common student would have left it there and been
satisfied, maybe with some cynicism here and some winging
LAMB TO THE SLAUGHTER there, but I had no plans to stop there. After consulting CEGB,
I was informed that the School was worried about the longevity
Jack Meredith, The Park of Firefly. I pressed my inquisition further. Apparently Firefly
seldom updates their software, and the School could not be
The date is the eleventh of February nineteen fifty-one, Joseph’s assured of its longevity, whereas the lovely Microsoft Teams
date of birth. He is a small, timid boy: defenceless at the most. frequently updates. Satisfying response, right? Hardly. Over
Forty-three hours ago, I regretfully peered down into his bleak the past week I have been subject to the bitter lamentations
eyes to see an image of passion and grace. His eyes reflected of skewees who failed to check their Teams assignments and
an emotional bouquet of many prepossessing and pleasurable suffered the repercussions. Now, given the fact that many
future memories. ‘Oh how he seduced me: I just cannot fulfil Harrovians suffer from an untreatable chronic illness, namely
and satisfy a child’s needs; this overwhelming feeling is strong laziness, just how seamless could this switch to Teams be? Who
enough to disrupt me from the reason of my writing. is going to gladly welcome the chore of checking two places
One year ago was when my husband’s clocks unexpectedly faded for prep? However, I think we should give it a chance. Way
and ceased to exist. I was perturbed, but did you comprehend to before my time at Harrow, when Firefly was introduced, boys
notice my sly disguise, trying to control myself from laughing hated it with a passion, or so I have been informed by senior
at your incompetence. You see Jack, I slaughtered Patrick. Oh members of the School. Now we love it so much we would hate
yes – you read those three words correctly. I can picture your to see it replaced. Whether we like it or not, and while it may
disoriented eyes vaulting back and forth over those previous be a rocky transition, Firefly is retiring, and Teams is taking the
words. Yes. I Killed Patrick. You assuredly do not need every wheel. In the slightly tweaked compassionate words of CST,
precise detail, but this you need to know: the evidence was “It’s not because the School does not care, its because they do”.
gnawed upon, ingested and engrossed by your own flesh and Yours sincerely,
blood. In fact, the attestation was probed by two metallic objects Akachi Anyanwu, The Grove
that perched into your hand the very hour after the murder
occurred. Evidence gone. Just ponder for me. Right now. What
you devoured ignorantly.
The Lamb. The silence of the meat. Silence of the Lamb.
Compact, solidified, congealed. A forcible hit around the SUDOKU
Parietal Bone would clearly eliminate a man. Persevera per severa per se vera
Devoured, evidence gone. Digested, evidence gone.
Joseph, my enfant, foible and frail, cannot ever ponder or
inquire after me. His youthful heart must continue tapping
gingerly, leaving a pleated transparent ripple on the skin of
his chest. I am overwhelmed with a variety of sensations that
suffuse my fearfulness. I cannot be a mother, an idle to a child
if myself I am a killer? Oh Jack, what to do? What to do?
By the time of night, when you are reading this, I plead you
to examine under your undergrowth: north of your house. Take
Joe, care for him, love him and inspire him. Do not you fret
about me. Please devote love and affection towards him, he
deserves it: for all he is a reliable witness.
By now my fluorescent spine will be attentively piercing out
of my phlebotomizing neck, leaving a dyed fountain of rose,
gingerly cascading from my neck: and my feet should be slowly
drifting in the early morning breeze
OPINION
CORRESPONDENCE
Letters from the editors
GAFFE AND GOWN
Dear Sirs, Quips from around the Hill
Whose daft idea was it to abolish Firefly?
In my fulfilling 1.3 years at this wonderful school, I cannot “Now boys, note that I have the skills which are relevant to
fathom a more outrageous decision. The cerebral gifts bestowed the modern economy, and this is why I am flourishing on my
upon me assure me that there must be some rhyme or reason to massive income.”
this outright scandalous change, my analytical prowess assures
me that there is none. As my peers received the saddening news (Overheard in Economics while examining a table of hourly
during a lesson, they were quick to enquire as to where the wage gaps between different ethnicities) (A boy from India)“Well,
advantage could possibly be. Our beak gave us the unsatisfactory we’re clearly winning.”
190
T H E H A R R O V I A N January 29, 2022
“I plan on teaching myself Italian. I just bought myself a Yearlings A v Tonbridge Won
new book.” “Was it Italian For Dummies, sir?” Strong play from Jack Nelson, Bradbys, and Ben Hufford-Hall,
Moretons, in a 2-1 win. Both boys showed plenty of potential.
Yearlings B v Tonbridge Lost
Filip Wiszniewski, Druries, and Peter Ballingal, Moretons,
showed plenty of potential in a tight 1-2 loss.
CHESS PUZZLE
The weekly Chess puzzle set by JPBH (Master i/c Chess).
Email him your answers (jpbh@...)– the best solver throughout
the term wins a prize.
This edition’s puzzle: Black to play and mate in 3
BADMINTON
The School v Abingdon, 22 January
After a passionate and exciting last fixture against Abingdon,
in which the Harrow team secured victory, Saturday’s fixture
was looking hopeful. Unfortunately, we found ourselves at
a disadvantage, with three pairs of our regular team unable
to play, and many pairs making their debut. The pairs were
reshuffled at the very last minute, ready to face off against
Abingdon’s regular team who seemed to have been unscathed
by the pandemic! The boys who played, particularly those
who have less experience on the court, put up a strong fight
and displayed energy, tact and precision. The first pair from
Winchester proved fierce competition, fighting off any attempt
for Harrow to gain the upper hand. There were eight very close
matches, particularly from Pair 3’s Aarav Tribhuvan, Moretons,
and Dawei Sun, Bradbys, who were neck and neck until the very
end. Pair 2’s Wilfred Leung, Druries, and Tobias Adetula, West
Acre, played wonderfully, particularly in the set game against
their equals, securing our only victory with great collaboration
and communication. Vlad Plyushchenko, The Grove, in Pair 4
demonstrated skill in defence after multiple fast-paced rallies.
In the end, the Abingdon team won by a significant margin,
though the results might have been very different had our team
been more established in their pairings. As always, the boys
Last week’s answer: 1. Rh8+ Kxh8 2. Qh5+ Kg8 3.Qh7# played with smiles and energy, and participated in a number
of friendly singles. We look forward to our ‘home’ match
against Abingdon, where we hope we will be able to set the
record straight!
SPORT
Pair 1 – Alex Locke, West Acre, and Marcus Tung, West Acre,
Lost 21-9, 21-10, Lost 21-11, Lost 21-15, Lost 21-19
Pair 2 – Wilfred Leung, Druries, and Tobias Adetula, West
Acre, Lost 21-8
Won 21-19,21-23,19-21, Lost 21-19, Lost 21-18
RACKETS
The School v Tonbridge, away, 15 January Pair 3 – Aarav Tribhuvan, Moretons, and Dawei Sun, Bradbys,
Lost 21-5, Lost 21-18, Lost 13-21,21-12,21-13, Lost 21-20
1st v Tonbridge Lost
An excellent effort by Tarquin Sotir, Druries, and Alonso Fontana, Pair 4 – Vlad Plyuschenko, The Grove, and Thomas Tian,
The Grove, who played with skill, passion and determination Newlands, Lost 21-1, Lost 21-12, Lost 21-18, Lost 23-21, 21-16
despite a 0-3 score line.
2nd V v Tonbridge School Lost
A spirited performance from Max Shirvell, The Head Master’s,
and Henry Oelhafen, Lyon’s,who were edged out 1-3 in a high
quality match.
FENCING
Colts v Tonbridge Lost The School v Winchester College, Won
Charlie Hope, Rendalls, and Mostyn Fulford, The Knoll, tried
hard throughout the match but were unable to wrestle the Despite missing many of the team's players, Harrow fought
initiative in a 0-3 loss. well, winning both their Foil A and B matches and their Epee A
match. There were some strong performances from Brian Chang,
Junior Colts v Tonbridge Lost Druries, and Indi Abrams, The Grove. Special congratulations
Henry Porter, Moretons, and Tom Campbell-Johnson, Druries, to Jonny Cullinane, The Grove, for fencing his first match for
showed real signs of improvement in a closely fought 1-3 loss. the Epee A team.
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January 29, 2022 T H E H A R R O V I A N
SOCCER napping with a goal straight through the middle of the pitch
after less than a minute. Harrow did not heed the warning.
The School v Highgate, 20 January Sloppy defending in the midfield and down the right allowed
Highgate to get the ball in the net a second time in as many
Junior Colts A v Highgate School, Lost 2-3 minutes, but Harrow felt relieved as the referee mercifully
This was a spirited performance by the JCAs but ultimately one chalked it off as offside.
that left the team ruing a missed opportunity. Having fought back It took Harrow a while to get a foothold in the game, giving
from conceding the opening goal to lead 2-1 in the second half, away the ball carelessly in key positions. To their credit, the
Harrow had chances to consolidate their advantage. However team recognised the need to switch on and responded well
the match ended up in frustration, with Highgate scoring two to switching wing backs to redress the balance. With the
late goals to win the game. right flank more robust and no longer a trap door through the
For a second game running, the JCAs were on the back foot middle, cool heads prevailed, offering more time on the ball.
from the start, finding it hard to progress the ball out of their Nanda, The Head Master’s, received an excellent pass from
own half and struggling to string passes together. The hosts Flach, Moretons, to offer a well-weighted through-ball into
were dangerous, pressing effectively and making a number of the path of Vejjajiva, West Acre, to slot superbly into the upper
chances. Their opener came direct from a corner, looping over corner. Strikers Jevons, Lyon’s, and de la Poer Beresford, The
the entire defence into the top corner of the goal. To Harrow’s Park, then took a chance each before the break. The second
credit, they battled back and started to play more football in half presented an opportunity to try out new personnel in new
the opposition half. Sam Winters, Elmfield, capitalised on this positions, which limited Jevons’ chances considerably to go
positive period of play to grab his fifth goal in two games, for the Golden Boot…
harrying the Highgate last line before rounding the keeper to
tap in. Yearlings A v Highgate School, Won 3-2
Half-time brought a slight change in formation and there The earlings had to show plenty of grit to grind out their
was an improvement in the quality of passing, indeed Harrow first victory in this feisty encounter. Michael Laurie, Newlands,
were dominant during the early stages of the half, culminating held the defence together whilst Teddy Tarbotton, West Acre,
in their second goal: Peter Yang, Bradbys, slotted a composed provided two real moments of class that proved decisive in
finish after good build up play down the right side. There were the winning goals.
subsequent opportunities for the JCAs to consolidate their
ascendency but, having not taken them, they were ultimately to Yearlings B v Highgate School, Lost 1-5
rue their profligacy. Slack pressing in midfield led to a through
ball and the equaliser, before Highgate scored the winner with Yearlings C v Wetherby Senior School, Lost 0-1
a fine top corner drive. Despite the committed efforts of the The Yearlings C were narrowly defeated by a clinical Wetherby
boys, they were unable to find an equaliser. side despite controlling the game for long periods
The JCAs are undoubtedly capable of playing better, with the
quality of passing at times a little slack and decision making
Yearlings D v Wetherby Senior School, Won 15-0
variable. That said, they showed great heart and moments
What was to become a fairly one-sided game began in frenetic
of individual quality. Jack Young, Newlands, in particular,
style well before kick-off: a mixture of commitments and Covid
passed well, showing industry and intelligence; Eli Dewotor,
had left the squad looking very different from the team sheet
The Head Master’s, dominated at the back, and Winters was
circulated the previous evening. Most worryingly was the
a menacing presence up front. The attitude of the whole team
complete dearth of goalkeepers. Nevertheless, the boys took
was excellent and they will be keen to bounce back on Saturday
to the field with a positive mindset. Harrow had the advantage
against Tonbridge.
in possession from the get-go, and converted this into goals on
many occasions. There was a lot of confidence in the box from
Junior Colts B v Highgate School, Won 5-2 Harry Schneider, Elmfield, Oliver Hoggett, Druries, Maxim
Another game and another win for the mighty diggers. Just Mulqueen, Bradbys, Jed Hurley, Bradbys, and Israel Olaigbe,
like the Epsom match, Harrow found themselves dominating Moretons, who all made it on the scoreboard. Further credit is
possession in the first half due to their high tempo in midfield due to Jed Hurley, Bradbys, and Aaryan Dassaur, Moretons,f or
and strong resistance at the back. This time, though, Harrow their chilly stints keeping the goal, and debutant Eric Lesesne,
did not have to work as long for the goals to come their way. West Acre, for his tireless efforts in the back line.
Louis Deshpande, Moretons, struck first, breaking the deadlock While the goal difference suggests a certain type of game,
after barely five minutes from long range, albeit helped by some Harrow still has a lot to work on in the coming weeks. Several
poor goalkeeping. Jack Allen, West Acre, put his name on the phases of play lacked finesse, and many mistakes went relatively
scoresheet next, firing in from six yards. The pick of the bunch unpunished by the opposition. The number of opportunities that
came when Babade Fasinro, Lyon’s, received the ball with were fully taken advantage of were not a significant fraction of
his back to goal and proceeded to Cruyff-turn three Highgate the total opportunities that arose during the game. While the
defenders before slotting the ball through to Henry Dargan, boys should take some confidence from the game, they need to
Druries, for a tap-in. First-half substitute Eddie Cooke, The be cautious and avoid complacency ahead of the next fixture.
Park, twice found himself through on goal, and twice kept his
composure to give Harrow a 5-0 lead before Highgate pulled
Yearlings E v Highgate School, Draw 4-4
one back just before half-time. In the second half, Harrow had
Harrow showed real courage and strength of character to
less of the ball, opting to focus on their build up from the back
come back from 3-0 down to secure a draw and played some
rather than score more goals. Highgate found another mid-way
brilliant attacking football along the way.
through the second half, but the conversation was pretty much
over by then and Harrow held out for a splendid 5-2 victory.
Yearlings F v Wetherby Senior School, Won 5-3
A special mention must go to Miles Herron, Rendalls, who
The Yearling Fs kept themselves warm waiting for the
imposed himself as a brick wall in defence and even produced
Wetherby coach to arrive, Sultan al-Thani, Rendalls, conducting
a wonderful goal-line clearance.
proceedings. Before the game began, he was getting used to
sticking the ball in the back of the net. As the cold was about
Junior Colts C v Highgate School, Won 8-1
to set in, Wetherby arrived, all seven of them.
The home team began with confidence and caught Harrow
Luckily, Victor Xu, Bradbys, and Fihr Dahlan, The Park, had
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T H E H A R R O V I A N January 29, 2022
turned up on the off chance they’d get a game. Along with Ethan control the ball and return to their brand of football. However,
Harrington-Myers, Bradbys, and Joseph Thornton, Newlands, the match evolved into a physical and scrappy affair in which
the hopefuls gave Wetherby a Harrow boost. The game started both teams struggled in their build up play. The boys dug deep
with a lot of back and forth, with al-Thani and Alex Gethin, and were effectively able to neutralise Tonbridge, who continued
Rendalls, causing a lot of problems for the Wetherby defence. to rely on the long ball. With ten minutes to go, senior players
At the other end of the pitch, any Wetherby attack was quickly such as Roger Litton, Newlands, and Edward Pagani, Lyon’s,
snuffed out by the assertive presence of Arjan Basran, The Park. rallied the team and managed the game carefully as we sought
Forever finding space on the wing, Vinsson Li, West Acre, to grind out a result. On the referees’ final whistle, the sense
deservedly got his goal, assisted by the industrious Aidan Lee, of relief was palpable as Harrow secured their first win of the
The Head Master’s. With their trademark serenity and mountain- season. It was a mature and professional performance all round
clear vision, Al-Thani and Gethin worked wonders in dangerous and the team embodied the values of courage, honour, humility
positions, both aiding the other in crafting two beautiful goals and fellowship to secure a well-earned victory.
apiece. For Wetherby, both Harrington-Myers and Thornton
were putting through sumptuous balls and linking up to ask 3rd XI, Home v Tonbridge School, Draw 1-1
questions of Rupert Lawless, The Knoll, in goal. Harrington- The 3rd XI clung on for a vital point in a chaotic encounter
Myers scored one, assisted one, and Thornton was involved in on Reddings 4. Harrow took the lead after 25 minutes, via a
the play that led to Wetherby’s penalty for a Harrow handball. fantastic solo effort from Bradley Morrison, Lyon’s. However,
As the game drew to an end, Gethin was inches away from a Tonbridge were the better side by some margin and finally
headed hat-trick and Al-Thani, through on goal with only the secured a draw with virtually the last kick of the game.
keeper to beat, lofted one over the keeper and also the crossbar.
4th XI, Away v Tonbridge School, Lost 0-2
The School v Tonbridge, 22 January
5th XI, Away v Tonbridge School, Lost 0-6
1st XI, Home v Tonbridge School, Draw 2-2 A strong Tonbridge team tore through our spirited yet lacklustre
A frustrating afternoon for the 1st XI after a strong start defence repeatedly, reminding us of exactly where we fall short,
through Walid Nsouli’s, The Knoll, goal. They played much and what we need to work on in training
better football in the 2nd half and led through Alex Gabbitas’,
Druries, penalty before conceding the equaliser in the final 6th XI, Away v Tonbridge School, Lost 0-5
minutes of the game. A spirited display and great character shown by all Harrow
players, but it was very difficult to make advances on a very
2nd XI, Home v Tonbridge School, Won 2-1 strong Tonbridge team.
Following the lessons learned from Epsom and a productive
week of training in which we worked on our build up and Colts A, Away v Tonbridge School, Lost 1-3
distribution, Harrow looked forward to taking on Tonbridge in The team found it difficult to get started against a physical side.
what was sure to be a closely fought encounter. We didn’t deal well with early pressure and didn’t control the
Harrow started the game well, making use of the good game as well as we should have. Some important lessons were
conditions on Park Lake to move the ball quickly and with learnt for our games going forward.
pace. Tonbridge were limited to the long ball, which Henry
Woodcock, The Head Master’s, Kit Keey, Druries, and Nikolai Colts B, Away v Tonbridge School, Lost 0-1
Hanbury, Rendalls, were able to deal with comfortably. Harrow It was a good game from both sides with a intense final
threatened with dangerous crosses from the byline but were quarter, sadly resulting with a 1-0 defeat. Highlights include some
unable to get on the end of them to convert. The pressure that quality play from max bloomfield and Zain Ayoub, The Knoll,
Harrow exerted eventually paid dividends from an unexpected with a stellar performance from Cameron Childs, Newlands.
source. Following a close chance for Harri Moondi, The Park, in
which he almost finished off a corner until the keeper skilfully Colts C, Away v Tonbridge School, Draw 1-1
saved the ball, Kyle Debrah, Elmfield, decided to cut out the Colts C played out an engaging draw against Tonbridge. Both
middleman and score directly, sending Harrow ahead 1-0. Harrow sides played a quality passing game, with deadlock maintained
continued to control the ball well and went 2-0 up after only until the last few minutes. Charlie Hope, Rendalls, scored an
what can be described as some of the finest football played by astonishing long-range free kick, before Harrow agonisingly
a schoolboy team. The boys kept possession of the ball for two conceded after a scrappy passage of play in the box. Those
minutes and must have made over 30 passes as they looked to on the touchline agreed that a draw was most likely the fair
stretch Tonbridge’s defence. This patience eventually created result. Man of the match: Guy Clark, West Acre, for a rock-like
space for Dami Olugbodi, The Park, who was able to finish performance at left-back.
the move with a slotted ball past the goalkeeper.
As the half drew on, Tonbridge began to adapt to Harrow’s Colts D, Away v Tonbridge School, Draw 1-1
style of play as they switched to three up front, which made The boys began the game with great energy and created a
it more difficult to play out from the back. This, combined number of half chances and, although unable to convert, found
with some phases of play where we gave up possession too themselves up 1-0 on the stroke of half-time after a bizarre
cheaply in the middle of the park, led to Tonbridge’s first real own goal by Tonbridge that was, in fairness, a result of some
chances. Harrow were able to limit any clear-cut opportunities good build up play by Alaka, The Head Master’s, and Oyegade,
and it looked like we would be entering into the break 2-0 up. Moretons. The match became more disjointed after the break
However, a miscommunication at the back allowed Tonbridge and the lack of structure from both teams led to a more open
to poach a goal a minute before the break leaving the half-time game. Tonbridge capitalised on an error at the back by Harrow
score at 2-1. with 10 minutes to go and, despite chances at both ends, the
The boys were frustrated to have let Tonbridge back into the game finished 1-1. Penalties was the result and despite some
game but were able to reset themselves effectively to focus on great saves by Emerson, Newlands, Tonbridge clinched it 3-2.
the job at hand. Tonbridge started the half with energy, which
rattled Harrow slightly and resulted in some free kicks given away Junior Colts A, Home v Tonbridge School, Won 2-1
in dangerous areas, but these were squandered by Tonbridge’s Two goals from Leo Polese, The Head Master’s, brought a
kick taker. Harrow then became more settled as they sought to hard-fought victory against a stubborn and well-drilled opponent.
193
January 29, 2022 T H E H A R R O V I A N
Junior Colts B, Home v Tonbridge School, Won 7-1 In the second half, the boys went back with even more fire
in their bellies and very quickly took the opportunity of a
Junior Colts C, Home v Tonbridge School, Won 2-0 lacking Aldenham defence to go on full attack. Stellar use of
Yet again, Harrow lined up against a team of physically the wing, coupled with a beautiful 25 to back post hit from
larger players, yet the home team stood toe-to-toe in the face Freddie Emery, Moretons, facilitated Aaron Patel’s, The Knoll,
of strong challenges and offered a solid riposte all across the goal for the team. Play continued to be fast paced from this
field. With such large variations in point onwards, and it was clear the opposition were becoming
Both teams had to adapt to wide-open expanse of Ducker 1 frustrated, with some questionable use of elbows towards the
– surely one of the larger pitches on the fixture circuit. The left Harrow side. Nevertheless, despite being awarded some penalty
wing was particularly bare for much of the first half as Tonbridge shorts, the Junior Colts failed to capitalise on these, and the
kept play down the centre. This played into Harrow’s advantage score stood at 1-0. In the last three minutes of the game, a rogue
as we sought to utilise our pace in this area. A specific home shot from the Aldenham team meant that the ball found itself
advantage is undoubtedly the ‘lay of the land’…the Tonbridge in the goal-scoring area, against a single Harrow player, and
coaches were right to highlight the flat fields of Kent had not despite Charlie Arnison’s, Moretons, best efforts the ball went
prepared them well for the Ducker ‘rolling plains’ as adapting to in. With the whistle blowing shortly afterwards, the Harrow
the roll of the ball appeared to let us off the hook a few times. boys walked off the pitch with mixed feelings about the result:
Such was the balance of the play that large parts of the happy it was not a loss, but disheartened by how close they
match were played to a stalemate. The whole of the second half had come to winning. Overall, a strong finish for such a newly
remained scoreless, despite numerous chances for both sides, formed team. Credit must be given to Xander Jones, West Acre,
hitting the post, bar or just missing. Limited to such fleeting for leading the team with aplomb, and to Rory Grant, Moretons,
chances, Sameen’s, The Knoll, first half brace was enough to for holding steadfast in defence.
see us through. His second was a work of individual brilliance.
Sprinting onto a Captain Murton’s, Newlands, perfectly weighted Yearlings A v Aldenham School, Lost 0-2
through-ball, he showed superb skill and composure to control
the ball at pace for most of the opposition half to beat the Aldenham started the game with some well-disciplined play,
onrushing keeper one-on-one. This was no mean feat – the giving them the lion’s share of both possession and territory.
Tonbridge keeper proved himself throughout to be one of their However, Harrow’s defence managed to soak up the pressure and
most valuable players. Harrow will take a lot of confidence from it wasn’t until five minutes before the end of the first half that
their speed and fitness throughout the match but will need to Aldenham finally managed to get their names on the scoresheet.
work on their follow-up play if we are to make the most of As the second half progressed, the home side managed to
scraps; rebounds and counter-attacks. Creativity is not lacking string together more than a couple of passes and the game began
– just making the most of the opportunities that come along. to flow better. Although Harrow were definitely improved in
Thankfully this was not the case for the first goal. Bearman’s, the second half, they lacked the killer instinct up front and,
Moretons, creativity down the right flank in the first half led despite producing a couple of chances, the strikers were unable
to a number of wonderfully placed crosses; he served it up on to convert. With Harrow legs tiring, Aldenham continued to
a plate for Jevons, Lyon’s, to toe-poke or bundle into the net create their own scoring opportunities by throwing forwards
only for Sameen to have the last word. All things considered, players on the break, leaving the Harrow defence outnumbered,
there should be plenty of positivity to buoy the side on for a and it was only a matter of time before they scored a second.
run of tough fixtures post-exeat and House fixtures. This spurred Harrow on and the last five minutes definitely
belonged to the home side. Sadly no real scoring chances
Junior Colts D, Home v Tonbridge School, Won 3-0 materialised and Harrow eventually went down 2-0.
The dynamite Ds, again, did not disappoint, delivering a
comfortable 3-0 victory over Tonbridge – excellent play from
all, Arjun Nanda and Uppi Vejjajiva in particular.
Junior Colts E, Away, The Oratory School Boys Under-15C,
Lost 0-1
Despite a committed defensive performance the Junior Colt FIVES
Es narrowly lost but they should be very proud of their efforts The School v Westminster School, Draw, 20 January
against a stronger C team.
The new pairings of Henry Hancock, Elmfield, and Henry
Yearlings F, Away v The Oratory School, Won 3-1 Procter, Druries, moved up to the top pair today and enjoyed
the challenge. There was some good cutting but their opponents
proved too strong and were worthy winners.
The second pair of Jack Artis and Olly Hills, both The Head
Master’s, enjoyed a 3-0 win having struggled initially. A very
satisfying performance from them.
HOCKEY
Colts A v Aldenham School, Draw 1-1, 22 January Under-21 Nationals, away at Eton, 22 January
With a last-minute decision to change the formation of this Four Harrow pairs ventured off the Hill to Eton on a cold day
Under-15 team, the boys stormed onto the pitch with vigour for spectators but good conditions for fives.
and a determination to win. Aldenham had been rumoured to During the pool matches it was clear that all four pairs
be a challenging opposition, but rather than let this play on could qualify for the quarter-finals with a prospect of Harrow
their minds, the boys used this as an opportunity to prove 1 (Phoenix Ashworth, The Head Master’s, and Jonny Barley,
themselves as worthy opponents. After 25 minutes no goals The Grove) playing Harrow 2 (Fred Prickett, The Park, and
had been scored on either side, a dramatic difference from the Nathan Shepard, The Park) in the semis.
Under-15’s previous game, and demonstrating that the Junior So it proved to be, with Harrow 1 proving too strong for
Colts As had started to find their unity as a team. Harrow 2 with the bragging rights going to Ashworth and
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