Islington girls’ failed to win a match at the London Youth Games handball finals, but coach Gaelle Gangneaux praised their efforts.

Gangneaux took on a side, which had never played the sport before and run them through three training sessions, before competiting at the Copper Box Arena in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park this weekend.

The side managed to bag themselves a 2-2 draw against Tower Hamlets, but suffered defeats to Redbridge (3-0), Croydon (3-0) and Newham (4-1) to crash out in the group stages.

Coach Gaelle Gangneaux said: “They gave 100 per cent which was really impressive, but what they needed was more experience in games to pick up wins.

“I noticed some of them have a real ability and I asked their teachers if they would like to take them to the London Youth Games.

“It was a lovely group of girls to work with and I’m sure with more experience they can be successful.”