Rhinos U10s End Season in Style

A tremendous all-round team performance, to see out a terrific season!

The Rhinos U10s played some fine, flowing rugby against quality opposition at the Droitwich festival.

First up to play, Rhinos found themselves up against a strong Barbarians outfit, comprising players from each of the other competing teams to replace a 'no-show' - and the boys were very quick out of the blocks! In seemingly no time at all Rhinos were 3-0 up and confidently bossing the game in the midfield. The Barbars put up a strong fight back in the second half of the game to get back to 3-2 though Rhinos always looked in control and could and perhaps should have had more - with two tries disallowed.

Next up were Worcester, a first meeting for the two sides this season, which was one to many for the unfortunate Worcester. Rhinos, still reeling from some harsh decisions in the first game, were quick to put matters right. This time they controlled the game from beginning to end, forcing Worcester back time and again, and making gains at every passage of play. Rhinos run out 3-0 winners, without their try line ever being threatened (I honestly do not recall Worcester entering the KN half).

Preston Grasshoppers were the pick of the opposition on the day, which was evident from their first two victories. This match-up was already being seen as the battle of the eventual table toppers and it proved to be as exciting and exhilarating as anticipated. PG were a big strong team and Rhinos met them head on, and competed well in every area of the pitch. In spite of their best efforts though PG battled their way over the line twice. The boys showed great character, a feature of their season, and never gave up, rucking well, passing and handling superbly, and eventually their possession and pressure paid off in a fine try. The match finished with Rhinos dominating possession, but unable to cross the line again - and it is fair to say that on another day (or with more balanced refereeing) this would have been a clear victory and a fine feather the their cap (or headdress)! Preston Grasshoppers win 2-1.

Aggrieved, the lads turned their attention (wrath) on the hosts, Droitwich. In a storming performance, every player in the 14 man squad played his part in a truly memorable performance which drew tries from all areas of the pitch. In denfence - fearless, attack - unstoppable. Eventually Droitwich responded with a try, by which time Rhinos had 6!

The final fixture saw Rhinos put the polish on a superb day of rugby, this time Supermarine from Wiltshire were the opposition. Again Rhinos were quick to start, smothering their opposition, and not allowing them time or space to play, yet creating their own at will. Scoring first once again, put the Rhinos in the boss seat and allowed the boys some comfort to enjoy their final game of the season which ended in a 4-2 victory.

It was a fantastic performance from beginning to end on Sunday, which came as no surprise as all of the boys have made great progress throughout the season, individually and more so, as a team. The Rhinos U11's team at Stratford Festival included Kam and Mansel; from reports I hear the boys competed really well, were not out of place at the older level, and gave a very good account of themselves. The team came home with the 'fair play trophy' - well done boys!

The entire squad of players, including those who were not involved in festivals this weekend, have been absolutely fantastic this season. They have been a pleasure to coach, and an absolute delight to watch grow and develop, to play sport with the right balance of passion and respect.

Well done Rhinos!