Weston RFC U16s vs Gordano Sharks RFC U16s

On a fresh spring morning Sharks visited Weston Super Mare for the first time in a few years hoping to do the double after a 32-24 win early in the season. A strong squad lined up in the red and black. The initial skirmishes went to the visitors and finished with a well worked back line move creating an Isaac Barr try in the corner. The Weston response using the wind well to gain territory, was well defended by Sharks. The hosts then pushed up into the Gordano 22 until an Ethan Ando choke tackle led to turnover ball. Weston then turned over the resulting scrum and pushed towards the Sharks line. Their strong scrummaging secured the ball and led to a deserved converted try for Weston from a pick and go at the base of the scrum.
The Sharks response was let down by ill-discipline and they surrendered territory and momentum for the next period of the half. However fierce tackling stopped the blue tide and the game settled into a battle for possession. In the final 5 minutes Weston again used the wind when kicking to pin Sharks back. A lack of concentration from Gordano allowed the hosts to go quickly at a penalty and almost unopposed end the first half with a second converted try and a 14-5 lead.
A well-placed Macie King kick to start the second half placed Sharks in the opposition 22. From a free kick, quick thinking by James Hawkins found Kody Golding on a great line allowing him to crash over for Sharks second try which Macie King converted. The red and blacks began to use the wind to their advantage and to camp in the opposition half. Every player contributed to an improved performance with an aggressive well organised defence and players running great attacking support lines. Their endeavour was rewarded with an Isaac Barr try under the posts which Leon Paul converted 14-19.
Having taken the lead Gordano then extended it through a series of well worked tries. Their superior fitness and intent was combined with committed defensive work. Following Kody Golding and Leon Paul tries the highlight was a final Sharks charge out of their 22 by Leon Paul passed to Aaron Southey who ran half the pitch to score with players in support. Macie King converted well to finish a 14-36 win for Gordano.