U16s – Derby vs West Bridgford (25th March)
This week saw a change for Derby under 16’s with an ‘under the lights’ match away at West Bridgford.
These two teams have always had good close matches over the years but this one was special as it was West Bridgford’s last ever match as juniors.
The first half was very evenly matched with Bridgford making some good turnovers and Derby excelling in defense. Derby finally broke through for 7 points which were the only points of the half.
Bridgford came out fighting in the second half and scored an early try for 5. They then managed to hold Derby up to prevent a further score. Bridgford then went over for another 7. Derby dug deep showing great strength in the scrum and managing to steal a few line-outs with power and height. Their hard work paid off with two further tries. The match finished 12-21 to Derby.
Great atmosphere and always a great match with these boys. Derby wishes all Bridgford players and coaches all the best for their future.
U13s – Derby vs Barton
The U13s hosted Barton today who came with a mixed U12/13 squad for a special fundraising match in support of Ukraine. The Derby boys got off to a quick start with a try from the kick-off and that helped set the tone for the game. Having scored again from some nice recycling we then defended fantastically with 2 almost certain run-away tries from their wingers being tackled 5metres out with some great chasing down and use of the touchline. It was really good to see the boys spreading the ball out quickly along the line for several boys to go over the try line on the wing. Barton scored a couple of good tries breaking a few tackles and were strong at the ruck, where it was a closer contest. There was some superb support running today from several of the boys on the wing and we could have had another 3-4 tries were it not for a forward pass, but this support running enabled us to score several tries on the wing. A couple of good dogged tries from the forwards at close range meaning 7 players scored today, and a great first cap for Kai.
A thoroughly strong all-round team performance from Derby and hats off to Barton who kept pushing us hard until the final whistle. We also raised £320 for Ukraine charities from our cakes and sweets stall showing great teamwork by the parents off the pitch!! Final match result 12-2 to Derby. A big thank you to Barton and to our boys for great sportsmanship throughout and after the game.
