The ENFIELD IGNATIANS U14s continue to enjoy themselves both on and off the field, and although they lost both tour matches in East Anglia, they are determined to build on the experience in a higher league next season.

Their first opponents were Wymondham, a side with an excellent record, and the clash with the Wolverines resulted in a 26-12 loss. Ben Phillips claimed both the tourists two tries with Ryan Loo adding a conversion.

Coach Colin Pennicott said: "Wymondham had a standout player who was very hard to stop and who went over for three of his side's four tries. However, it was a good learning curve for us and Wymondham are to be congratulated for their excellent hospitality.

"Our touring party numbered 44 in all, which included a large contingent of parents, and the boys were also able to focus on other activities such as rock-climbing - so it was more than just a rugby-playing experience."

Ignatians travelled further afield in Norfolk and, 24 hours later, took on Holt - but, as in the previous game, the tourists gave themselves too much of a mountain to climb before going down all guns blazing 22-17.

Trailing 17-7 at the break, the blue and golds were the authors of a valiant second-half effort but were unable to bridge the gap in a keenly-fought contest which was played in a correct spirit.

Ignatians' collected two of their three tries via the speedy Jamal Daley-Bonner and were also awarded a penalty try for a high tackle on Ben Phillips. Ryan Loo also added a conversion. Feidhlim Ginty was Man of the Match.

Colin Pennicott added: "I took a backseat in the final game as I deferred to the authority of our three young assistant coaches Dan McDermott, Sam Pennicott and Alec Willis. They called the shots and made the decisions. They did a good job and it was a good experience for them."

Due to be playing in Herts-Middlesex Division Three next season after finishing second in their league, the U14s have nominated players for Middlesex, and are also in the process of finalising their pre-season programme in advance of the 2016-17 season.