Stepping onto a full sized pitch with an XV for the first time, the Blues lined up to test themselves against Abbey in the Berkshire Cup.

Whistle blown and the Blues immediately showed their intent by working route one through the Forwards until pressure told and a spirited Abbey defence was breached for the first try.

Pre-season work on restarts and catching high balls paid off with a fine catch and run scything through traffic to score a superb solo Blues try. This followed another Blues try in quick succession to rapturous applause by the Blues supporters.

Following this fine start, the Blues conspired to go off the boil allowing Abbey to build up a head of steam scoring a well deserved try.

19-5 and halftime called.

Starting the second half, another fine catch off an Abbey kickoff followed by quick ruck ball played into space resulted in a 45 metre run in for the next Blues score .

Credit to Abbey who, playing in their third match of the season, fought on to score their third try to close off proceedings.

Overall a solid collective performance from the Blues in particular rucking/ counter rucking, scrummaging as well as support play in the loose. Focus will be to build on this performance adding exploiting space out wide in attack and solidifying the defensive line and press.

33-15 final score…

The lads will sleep well tonight!

Performances like that and the Team Manager may have to set up a turnstile and start selling tickets!

Rugby is chess - The focus is on performance, the scoreboard looks after itself, and what a performance it was. Physically and mentally dominating the opposition underpinned by NRFC U14 Rugby values.

Match Day Scorers:
Finn B - 6th min
Noah M - 7th min
Austin A - 12th min
Austin A - 27th min
Noah M - 40th min
Johnny C 4x conversions and Man of the Match - Well done Johnny for an OUTSTANDING performance

Rich A.