SRUFC U14's v Sheffield Tigers U14's

Under 14's finally got back to contact Rugby against another club and no better test than to travel up the road to local rivals Sheffield Tigers. Traditionally Tigers have had the advantage at this Age Grade but after weeks of intensive coaching and commitment from Sheffield lads over the recent non-lockdown period this match was evenly contested throughout.
Early on some real belting tackles went in from Sheffield forwards and this seemed to be a big wake up call for Tigers. The first 15 mins was back and forth with no scoring but plenty of good tackling and passing along the line from Sheffield. Tigers eventually got through Sheffield back line and scrambled a Try over the line that was almost held up by Sheffield's scrum half. Sheffield responded with a superb tactical move releasing right winger for the day who put on the pace and left Tigers back line for dead. All level when a loose ball was picked up by Tigers and kicked into the corner which was well anticipated by Tigers winger who just managed to touch the ball down for second Try inside the dead ball line. Sheffield were on their heals for that one and signs were just starting to show that Tigers 'street cred' was giving them the competitive advantage. However, straight from the Kick off Sheffield's rapid winger caught the ball, saw a gap in the Tigers back line and whipped through for a thrilling Try to level things up for half time.

The Socially distanced parents in attendance were witnessing some fantastic rugby, the boys they last watched back in Feb 2020 were now big hulky young men and their development is impressive.

The second period started at the same rapid pace as the first and Tigers intent on kicking started to give them the edge as Sheffield often found themselves out of position at the back and chasing a bouncing ball, on very hard ground, one of which lead to the third Tigers Try. Sheffield were not giving up and their sheer determination lead them to draw level once again with another well fought Try after gradually gaining territorial advantage. As the match started to draw to the end Sheffield tired and started to give away a few penalties, two of which were converted giving Tigers the unofficial win. This was a magnificent effort by Sheffield and the bar has now been set. 2021/22 Season and Yorkshire Cup can't come quickly enough.

Young trainee ref: Tom Gray had a real baptism of fire for his first ever competitive match and it was a pleasure to see him grow in stature as the match progressed, well done Tom.