Last week the Year 7 and Year 8 boys’ rugby union teams were in action at Kingston Park. In a day where schools from all across Newcastle and Northumberland were present, it was a chance for the students to test themselves against some high level opposition.
Year 7 got off to a tough start against an established Marden team and were narrowly beaten in a great opener. The Year 7 boys bounced back from this with a huge win over Corbridge with a number of players getting on the score sheet, Tom H and Jack W with stand-out solo efforts.
Next up was Bede and after a close opening few minutes Will HA picked up a couple of memorable tries and the tough tackling of Joel, Seth and Benji allowed HMS to pick up a huge win.
St Thomas More were the next opponents. Another established team with strong runners caused HMS to be on the back foot after an early try but Jack W stormed through to get a sensational try in the corner to equalise, leaving the game as a draw. Fantastic rugby.
In the final game Ashington were the opponents and despite being at a size disadvantage, HMS’ fast forward play gave them a well deserved lead. Ashington leveled again late on but it was another fantastic performance by the team.
A large number of debutantes for HMS who all played brilliantly: Charlie J, Owen S and Lucas N were sensational in attack and Harry W was a rock in defense.
The Year 8 boys got off to a similar start after an unfortunate bounce of the ball cost them the first game in a very technical match. The highlight game from Sam D’s defense carving run which would be a contender for try of the day across the whole festival.
They bounced back with authority, however, getting a big win against Ashington with tries from Josh, Jack, Cameron and Isaac showing the flair HMS had in attack. The defensive tenacity of James, Alex, Thomas B and the team showed great resolve and allowed us to turn the ball over quickly.
In the final game HMS conceded early but bounced back in style with tries from Josh, Jack, Tom D and Ben standing out.
Overall a great first rugby event of the year and we will look to build on this as the year goes on. Next up: Ovingham at home.
Mr Barry