Sensational Sunday at Sarries!

Waking up to monsoon rains, and a decidedly bleak outlook, was not the best preparation for a full day at Allianz Park - but the drive south saw the weather God's smiling upon us and the sun broke on arrival.

Rather unfazed by the surroundings, and the immaculate conditions provided, Wendens travelling U9s opened the morning against Sevenoaks 2 - a much bigger club than Wedens, as many are.

After a couple of nervy opening minutes, the players remembered the old age adage that the opposition "cannot run without their legs!" and settled into defensive duties well and lots of energy in attack. Well balanced match, with Sevenoaks sneaking it 4-3.
Wendens scorers - Jesse Diggins and Sully Coles.

Old Elthamians were up next, with George Johnson earning some humility points by offering to play for the opposition for the full game - scoring a great try in the process against his own team! A really enjoyable, and well balanced, match ended in honours even at 3 tries all.
Wendens scorers - Jesse Diggins, Sully Coles and Henry Mitchell Davies - plus the one from George...

Third up were Sevenoaks 1, and the sternest test of the afternoon against a well drilled side. Oaks came out of the blocks fast, but were made to work hard for the tries they scored before Dylan Rogers stole one back with a typical barnstorming run just before the break. Wendens dug in, very fittingly on Remembrance Sunday, with gusto to keep Oaks to just 2 further tries. Despite the 7-1 scoreline, against Wendens, this was probably the most pleasing game as the kids showed immense courage and determination.
Wendens scorer - Dylan Rogers.

Finally we met Hertford, in what was a really great contest played in the perfect spirit. Wendens had improved throughout the day, and were looking to utilise the space afforded to them on the bigger pitch. Everyone had the ball in their hand, making ground and presenting perfectly when caught by the Herts defence, and stuck to their defensive duties admirably. Final scoreline stood at 4-2 in Wendens favour, as a fitting way to end the day.
Wendens scorers - Nicolas Hulme, Dylan Rogers and Jesse Diggins.

Player of the day, not normally awarded but it was something out of the ordinary, was not an easy choice - given the effort they ALL put in and improvement throughout the day. However, given his diminutive stature, and unnerving commitment in the contact area, Arthur Phillips was bestowed the honour!!

Great day, great venue, great effort by everyone = some very proud coaches, parents, siblings and grandparent!!