Much improved

In the corresponding U11 fixture last year, we were blown away by Stourbridge and it is a measure in the improvement made by the squad that the U12’s games today were extremely close. Without being too controversial, the first two games were partly ruined by an over zealous referee, who seemed more intent on blowing his whistle, particularly for offside, than warning the young players and letting the game flow. Stourbridge are very well drilled and possibly the most physical side we play. In general this year as well our sides are smaller than their opponents, but make up for their physical shortcomings by good handling and passing skills.
We lost the first game 2-1 with Reiss Roberts, one of the more recent incomers from Fairfax School, scoring the first of his four tries on the day. The second game resulted in a 5-4 loss Austin and Louis scoring in addition to Reiss (2). Louis’ try particularly was a fine piece of opportunism after intercepting after a scrum and crossing over. We were much improved in the final game holding a lead right up to the last minute before Stourbridge equalised to make it 3-3, Fred and Austin adding tries to Reiss’.