Windsor Festival Report

First a really big well done to all the boys who played at Windsor in the 29 degree October heat! That was my 6th Windsor tournament and definitely the best on all fronts.

We played four gruelling games against tough competition from Windsor, Saracens, Richmond, and Beaconsfield.

We started by playing the hosts, Windsor, in a match that was definitely a game of two halves. Windsor won the first half after catching us on the back foot early on. Everyone woke up with some great defence keeping the score pegged to 7-0 at half time. We bounced back after the break with some great rugby that led to a breakthrough and Mitch scoring the equaliser. Full time, 7-7.

The second match turned out to be the toughest match against a very physical Saracens side. The boys defended very well and only conceded two tries - the closest match Saracens played in the pool, 14-0.

Third up, Richmond. Again, a very close physical game which could have gone either way. Both sides played some great rugby and the 7-7 score line a couple of minutes before the whistle reflected the true nature of the game. The try for Redingensians was scored by Callum after we were awared a penanty five metres from the line. Unfortunately we let our guard down in the last few minutes and a push from Richmond saw them ground the ball short of the line, but they were nevertheless awarded the try. Remember the referee is always right! Full time, 14-7.

The final game against Beaconsfield was another hard game which we led as a result of an outstanding try by Callum. Unfortunately, Beaconsfield scored a break-away try following a penalty for handling in a ruck. Full time, 7-7.

Special mentions for Pierre and Owen playing in their first tournament, and to Tom and Sam who were both injured in early matches and had to sit out the later games. The Forwards put in some excellent scrummaging and the backs played a considered game with timely kicking. The whole team produced the best rucking the coaches have seen and everyone played as a team.

Two draws and two very close losses reflect the massive improvement, commitment and effort given by all the boys. Windsor was an excellent start to the U12 season!

Tony