Under 12s
Unity College U12's (Year 7) played their first fixture last night. We were due to play St. Wilfreds from Blackburn at 4pm. Every member of the team had trained well and a squad of 18 turned up to put their skills to the test against their prospective opponents! A remarkable turnout indeed! 2 kits were prepared - our all blacks and scarlet shirts hung on hooks as the team arrived for changing. Our young and enthusiastic side were definitely up for this contest!
Unfortunately so was the weather. As most students trudged home in the howling winds and pouring rain, 18 lads threw a funny shaped ball around to warm up. Joining them were almost as many parents and family members on the sidelines. Mr. Robin Reid of Burnley Rugby club was looking spectacular in his refereeing attire and seemed impressed by our boys approach to the game.
Despite all this we were let down at the final hurdle. The opposition were not going to come and we were without a contest. Fortunately, we are gifted with some quite brave students who, although disappointed at not playing against St. Wilfs' were presented the opportunity to face each other instead. Eagerly, even though a nice hot mug of chocolate was very appealing at this point, the gentlemen decided to play.
A team of 9 gold and 9 all blacks were formed (quickly as the wind and rain picked up) and battle commenced! The team had never yet played a full match but the potential is already evident. Strong running was matched with good tackling on both sides. The gold team pressurised with several attacks before finally breaking through to score twice in the early stages. 0 - 10 to the gold team. Blacks struck back but failed to convert their pressure into points and suddenly the gold’s had a third try.
At the break both teams were encouraged to attack in groups and ruck over in the tackles. When play resumed observers were again greeted with more strong running on both teams and some excellent passing which set up some receivers to make ground. Brilliant tackling prevented more tries being scored until after some more powerful running the blacks scores to bring the game back to 5 - 15.
In the final stages both teams missed opportunities to score as the ball, coated in slippery mud and water, was knocked on over the try areas. The gold team ended the game a final try to make it 5 - 20.
Some good news. In the unwritten laws of the PE departments across the world it clearly states that any team not turning up to play concedes the match by 50 points (in rugby). So congratulations U12's, an excellent result even if we would rather have had a game!
The next fixtures are for the Under 14's (year 9) in the Ribble Vally league, at Blackburn on Monday the 10th October. Students selected should see Mr. Williams. On Tuesday the Under 12's (year 7) travel to Preston for the Lancashire Emerging Schools Tournament. Perhaps we will meet St. Wilfs there?! Again see Mr. Williams for more details.
Team sheets will be displayed on the PE Department notice board near the sports hall on Friday.
Players are reminded that they are advised to bring a gum shield, shorts, boots, school socks, a towel and plastic bag to training and games.
Mr Williams.