Wendens Knights (Hamish, Toby, Sam, Louis, Felix V, Thomas, Felix P, Callum, Noah) put up a great showing full of spirit, teamwork and some sparkling rugby. Played 5 games (W1 D2 L2) including the first three one after another. They took part in some tough, physical and close fought matches but their heads never dropped and they all fought for each other and the shirt until the final whistle. A great showing all around for the first match of the season, under new rules.
The Crusaders (Henry H, Henry F, Jack, Luca, Bodie, Zac, James and Daniel) had an excellent day, recording four wins (against Peterborough, Huntingdon, Shelford and Ely) and only one loss in a scrappy game on a ploughed field against Cambridge. Fierce competition at the breakdown, counter-rucking and ripping ensured plenty of possession which the Crusaders converted readily into tries – Daniel, Henry H and Jack got a hatful but everyone contributed to a very successful first day under the new rules.
Wendens Kings (Lochie, Flynn, Harry, Archie, William Caz, William Cull, Charlie, and Jake) started their friendlies against our friends at Shelford, which allowed everyone (ref to) to get used to the new rules. Three more successful games ensued, and although the schedule meant plenty of hanging about, the team stuck to task in a maturity gained through their years with Wendens. However what was even more pleasing was how the 2 new players, Charlie and WIll, took to the game, often demonstrating the tackle, line speed and rucking like old pro's. The basics of passing and running into space are well founded now, the new skills of rucking, mauling and ripping were all adopted throughouth their games. There were genuine stages of play where pressure from quick line speed in defence resulted in turnover; ripping the ball out of contact and from the ruck turned many of the games around, and comments from opposition as to the success of this tactic were freely given. Creating the scrum piece has allowed the players a breather at times, and created space away from the usual melee around the breakdown. The final game on long grass was a step to far, for the team of 8 had competed in 48 minutes of rugby without any subs, especially after plenty of tries in the game before which involved running the full length of the pitch...(W2D2L1)
Wendens U10 are a credit to their club, parents and coaches - thank you guys, you were awesome!