Under 9's at Essex Festival - Sunday 31st March 2019

The squad was Alfie, Brad, Charlie, Ellis, Katie, Logan, Noah, and Olly.

We played Upminster, Braintree, Westcliff and Bancroft. The last three games being on the trot, which was hard, and we needed to dig deep to keep the energy in the team.

The conditions weren't quite set for our style of running rugby, with a strong wind blowing the entire time.

We played very well in phases, and particularly in the second half of all the games. Half time seemed to energise us, we were always stronger in the tackle and making more ground when we had the ball in the second half. Plenty of magic moments with a few more notable ones being - Noah knocking the other team down many times, Logan leading the line relentlessly, and Brad not taking a backward step in defence.

Ellis made a great comeback, and his try scoring roll was seen a few times on the day. Charlie got over the try line again, now becoming an old hand at it. Alfie quickly got onto some lose ball and again showed his pace to get over the line. Olly carried in strongly, and got to scrum half to pass out. Katie always made ground with ball in hand, and supported the tackling.

With the other teams generally having bigger squads, and bigger players, it was at times "a hard day at the office". Anyone playing us, knew in the second half that they had been given a "hard day" too. Great rugby all-round and some really determined performances.

The medals the players received were well deserved by each player.

If you are interested in playing rugby with us call Gerry on 07880 498565.