Southmead, the rematch U8s

On a cold, wind-swept morn, a complete contrast to last week, the mighty BYR had the pleasure of a repeat match against S’mead.

An immediate try from Joaquin from the off offers BYR an ideal start, however a return counter -try levels the score. A wonderful partnership is developing between Kai and Joaquin, a try 2-1. A quick burst of speed and Joaquin makes it look easy to score a one-man show try, 3-1. Great effort from S’mead, but the ball goes out, still 3-1. The ball is passed between the S’mead team and the score 3-2 stands which is a better reflection on the equal strengths and weaknesses of both teams.

A problem with returning the tags is highlighted by our highly regarded coach/referee, James. It’s now 4 -2, after Abigail goes over the line – simply wonderful and one to watch for the future. A S’mead attack is thwarted by some solid defensive work of the BYR team members Josh, Matti and Ben, but S’mead’s efforts are rewarded with a couple of quick tries to make it 3-4, how the tables have turned from such a positive start. Hold on, an inspirational team effort between Stanley, Nate and Kai make the score 4-4, but an equally great solely effort from a young S’mead lad keeps the balance between the two rival teams in favour of our visitors S’mead. A redeeming run from BYR levels the score at half term, 5-5, the players are lead off in anticipation of another monumental team talk from James.

S’mead make a good start and the score becomes 5-6. An excellent team play from BYR is cut down in mid-flow with a reprimand for one hand on the ball and fending opposition off. Leon starts the play again and with an insightful pass well beyond his years gives the baton to Joaquin who finds Dan who has a weaving, shimmy abundant pop at the S’mead defence who hold strong and keep their line – a wonderful, respectful competitive spirit is developing between the two teams. Another try for S’mead cuts through BYR, followed by another makes the score 5-8, but BYR heads are not down cast like some teams and they dig in and attempt to claw their way back with the clock ticking. Before long though the score is 6 – 10, with Joaquin yet again scything a path through the S’mead fortifications the only redeeming feature, come on BYR! Another great mature pass from Leon sends the ball towards Kai who cranks up for an adrenaline fuelled dash for the line, only to be stopped in his tracks and left to witness a counter for S’mead; 6 – 11. Again S’mead have the upper hand and destroy the defence of a weary, broken line; 6 -12. With minutes to spare BYR dig deep and Kai, Joaquin and Abigail (a harmonious, brother and sister combo) capitalise on an unusual period of disarray with the S’mead ranks, 9 -12. Is this too little too late? A final flourish from Kai makes the score 10-12 and ends another heroic performance from the youth of Bristol Rugby.

Southmead v Bristol Youth Rugby 27th March