Manager

Claire Winterburn: 07765 080805
clairewinterburn710@hotmail.co.uk

Head Coach

Adam Collier: 029 20625595 or 07880 851702

Coaches

James Beynon: 07875 775107

Rhiwbina U8’s (2010-11)

Fixtures:  

Contact the U8’s

Reports:  

Twickenham Tournament  (Sat 23rd April 2011)
 

Photos

St George’s Tag Rugby Cup Summary

On Good Friday, an army of Squirrels players & fans boarded the 83 seat coach for our first end of season tour to SW London.  After checking in to the hotel, we were kindly hosted by London Welsh RFC at Old Deer Park.  The boys enjoyed the inflatables, the mums enjoyed the Pimms and the Dads reminisced over the 1971 Lions tour to New Zealand.

Following a hearty Saturday breakfast, the team bus made the short trip to Twickenham where the 2nd annual St Georges Cup was to take place.  London was to see the hottest April day for 62 years so the Brown, Grey & Red Squirrels would have to place special emphasis on rest & rehydration.
Each game would last 7 minutes with no halftime.

Game 1:  Grey Squirrels 4, Aylesford Bulls 0.

Rhiwbina opened play with a switch to Jack M who had Ethan in support to score the opener. On the next possession, Frankie split the defence to supply Tom A for the 2nd.  Jack M mounted a 3rd attack that saw all 6 team mates handle for Jack M to make it 3-0.  After a 7TT, Tom A made a powerful run and had Jack M on hand end the game at 4-0.

Game 1: Brown Squirrels 1, Worthing Lions 2.

Although the Browns showed good attack & defence, unforced errors saw Worthing take a 2 try lead. The Browns eventually cut out the errors and a good run down the right wing by Daniel ended with an inside pass to Elliot to halve the deficit.  Both sides defended well to end the game at 1-2.

Game 1:  Red Squirrels 2, Canterbury Spitfires 4.

Canterbury opened well by scoring the 1st two tries.  The Reds replied when Sol’s scorching run halved the deficit.  Canterbury extended the lead to 3-1.  Rhiwbina found their form and a great team move ended with Cai scoring from short range to make it 2-3.  The Reds pressed for an equaliser but an error allowed the Spitfires to counter and end the scoring at 2-4.

Game 2: Grey Squirrels 5, St George’s Dragons 2.

An early break by Noah saw the ball in Gethin’s hands for the opener.  After a 7TT, Jack M pushed forward to supply Gethin with his 2nd in 2 minutes. A forward pass resulted in Frankie running down the tramlines to make it 3-0.  The Dragons deservedly got on the scoreboard and attacked again, only to drop the ball in front of Jack M who ran 40m to score.  Another Greys attack saw the ball put through hands, finding Jack M for a 5-1 lead.  As the central hooter sounded, St George’s scored again the end the game at 5-2.

Game 2: Brown Squirrels 2, Rosslyn Park Obolenskys 4.

The Browns started slowly and found themselves 0-3 down after 3 minutes.  The score was pegged back when Macca scored.  RP extended the lead to 1-4.  As Rhiwbina pushed again, RP infringed in the in goal area, awarding the Brows a penalty try and a final score of 2-4.

Game 2: Red Squirrels 3, Canvey Island Rugrats 2.

Rhiwbina started well when Sol’s solo run outpaced the Rugrats defence to score.  On regaining the ball, Ollie’s route 1 run drew the C.I. defence and had Josh on hand sprint in for a 2-0 lead.  The Rugrats had their own speedster who showed good pace to score their opener.  C.I. came again but a loose pass was collected by Sol who roared down the tramlines to make it 3-1.  As time ran out, Canvey Island pressed for another score and got it on the final hooter, settling the score at 3-2.

Game 3:  Grey Squirrels 6, Whitgiftians 2.

A good team move saw Jack M finish for the opener.  A 7TT allowed another passing move allowing Tom A to double the lead.  A Whitgiftians fumble was collected by Ethan who found Gethin for a 3-0 lead.  Then, Jack M started & finished a good team move to make it 4-0.  Whitgiftians pulled a score back, only for Noah to restore the lead to 5-1.  Whitgiftians scored a 2nd only for a classic switch see Jack M go in from halfway and a 6-2 final score.

Game 3:  Brown Squirrels 1, Beaconsfield Bandits 1.

After an exchange of turnovers, Rhiwbina worked industriously and saw Macca exploit a gap to open the scoring.  Beaconsfield pressed for an equaliser and found it in the 5th minute.  After that, defence dominated for a 1-1 final score.

Game 3:  Red Squirrels 3, Haywards Heath Knights 4.

The Squirrels started play by taking play up to the HH line.  A good change of direction by Dylan put Owen P into space and the 1st try.  The Knights replied with a good try. Rhiwbina attacked again finding Sol who again showed good pace to take a 2-1 lead.  HH pushed up field but were held on the Squirrels line.  The Reds responded when Josh went the length of the field to extend the lead to 3-1.  The Knights then hit a purple patch scoring 3 unanswered tries ending the game at 3-4.

Cup Quarter Final:  Grey Squirrels 4, Windsor Royals 0.

Following a 7TT, Gethin took 1st phase and jinked through the Royals defence to put Jack M over for the opener.  Windsor then knocked on allowing Ethan to split the defence and feed Tom A for the 2nd.  Another Royals knock on found Jack M who pushed up field and found Noah to make it 3-0. Another turnover saw Gethin go over for a final score of 4-0.

Bowl Quarter Final:  Brown Squirrels 3, Sidmouth 2.

After a couple of turnovers, Sidmouth opened the scoring with a try in the left corner.   Tom E made a strong run up field finding Daniel for the equaliser.  Sidmouth lost the ball on the Squirrels line allowing Daniel to run the length of the field and a 2-1 lead.  Sidmouth came back to level at 2-2.  As time ran out, Daniel outpaced the Sidmouth defence and found Tom Moore who scored the winner.

Bowl Quarter Final:  Red Squirrels 3, Faringdon Blackbacks 3.

Faringdon opened play & the scoring.  Rhiwbina replied when Dylan crossed for the equaliser.  The Blackbacks pressed again and crossed for a 2-1 lead.  The Squirrels replied with a good team move eventually finding Owen S who levelled at 2-2.  

The Reds crucially forced a turnover and took advantage via Sol’s score to take a 1 point lead.  As time ran out, Faringdon pressed hard and scored on the final hooter.  Although not in the rules, the tournament organisers decided that as Farringdon scored the 1st try, they would proceed to the semi final and that the Red Squirrels would take no further part.

Cup Semi Final:  Grey Squirrels 3, Marlow 1 (AET)

The semi final started with strong defence on both sides.  Rhiwbina had a try disallowed for too many steps.  Marlow replied with the match opener.  Another attack saw Frankie have a score disallowed for placing the ball short.  As the central hooter sounded, the Squirrels had 1 chance to equalise. Jack Ms huge pass found TomA on the overlap who went over for 1-1 at full time.

The tournament organisers decided that a 3 period of minute extra time would be played.  The Greys scored straight from the kick off via Tom A.  With the pressure now on, the Rhiwbina defence became impenetrable and forced a 7TT.  Looking to close the game, the Greys pushed up field and found Ethan who scored for a 3-1 score at the final whistle and a place in the Stadium final.

Bowl Semi Final:  Brown Squirrels 1, Oxford Harlequins 4.

The Browns started slowly, conceding 3 early tries.  They eventually got on the scoreboard when Macca crossed.  However, as time ran out, Quins scored again to end the game at 1-4.

St George’s Cup Final:  Rhiwbina Squirrels 4, Rosslyn Park Ripleys 3.

Youtube

In front of just under 40,000 spectators, thunder & lightning was gathering around Twickenham Stadium.  The Squirrels started but turned over possession to RP.  Despite solid Rhiwbina tagging, the Ripleys pushed up field for the opening try.  Rhiwbina restarted through Jack B’s fake switch taking play to the RP 5m line.  An offload to Noah levelled the score at 1-1.  Regaining possession, Frankie, Ethan, Jack, Jack & Finally Tom A combined to take the lead. An exchange of turnovers saw RP apply their route 1 style to equalise at 2-2.

As the lightning continued, another Squirrels attack found Gruff in space to score but was judged to take too many steps.   Another exchange of ball saw RP go route 1 again and score from 10m out for a 2-3 score.  Another switch saw Jack M go right & split the RP defence.  Good link play saw Tom A bring it left and pass to Jack B on the overlap who scored for 3 tries each. With one minute left, RP pushed as far as the Squirrels line but came up just short.

Re starting in the right corner, Rhiwbina came up with the move of the game when Frankie, Tom A, Ethan & Jack M put Gethin down the left.  Tagged just short of the line, Gethin found Ethan to go over for a 4-3 lead.  RP had one more attack, but good pressure from Jack B & Frankie forced an RP error allowing Rhiwbina to run out the clock and win the 2011 St George’s Cup.

And that’s it for tag rugby.  The U8s have now disbanded for the summer and will enjoy a well deserved rest.  A special mention must go to Mike & Rob for arranging what was a fantastic end of season tour.  See you next season.
 

Tondu Tournament  (Sun 17th April 2011)

 

Game 1: Rhiwbina 6 Bridgend Athletic 5

Bridgend opened the scoring early on as they exploited a "sleepy" Rhiwbina defence. From the restart though, the boys bounced back immediately with a tremendous team try.

The ball was moved through hands and the Bridgend defence was stretched and Lucas was on hand to go over for the score. From the restart the Rhiwbina defence applied the pressure and turned the ball over after making 6 tags. With the resulting possession, a quick burst and link up from Tom passed to Owen who burst through a crowd of Bridgend players to tie the score.

Another 6 tag turnover resulted in Josh weaving his way through a stream of desperate tag attempts to touchdown in the corner.

This took the score to 3-1 going in to the 2nd half. Rhiwbina increased the lead straight from the restart after Sol went on a solo dash for the line.

The Bridgend boys quickly re grouped and on the 5th Tag managed to scramble over to score. Sol then added to his tally by flying over the line again to keep the Rhiwbina boys in front.

Bridgend came straight back, and despite a huge tagging effort from Owen, Jacob, Tom, Macca and Elliot they couldn't stop a fluent Bridgend from scoring.

Rhiwbina came straight back into the fray when Tom burst down the wing and was stopped just short of the line, but, some quick thinking from Josh the ball was moved wide and Sol crossed for his hat trick. Bridgend kept the pressure on by scoring their 4th try. The last few minutes of the match saw both sides producing some fantastic defensive tagging.

After another turnover the green and ambers of Bridgend did manage another score. Rhiwbina managed to hold on to their lead and close out a hard fought victory.

Game 2: Rhiwbina 7 Ebbw Vale 3

With the confidence of a win under their belts the boys in black went out and stamped their authority on the game straight from the kick off.

Josh meandered his way to line again for the first try of the game. Ebbw Vale came back to equalise after the blacks narrowly failed to make the 6th tag. Sol then added to the score with another try. Ebbw Vale managed to score again after some uncharacteristic missed tags by the Squirrels. Unfazed by conceding the try Josh and Lucas got the boys going with 2 more tries. Ebbw Vale took advantage of a few handling errors and took their try count up to 3.

The Black attack piled on more pressure after the restart with some terrific defence. Three tries then followed in quick succession for Lucas, Josh and Owen as Rhiwbina cruised to comfortable victory.

Game 3: Rhiwbina 2 Tondu 3

This turned out to be the crunch match of the group. Going into this game both teams had won their first 2 matches.

Tondu scored he first try which put the Squirrels on the back foot. This was followed by both sides going back and forth with several 6 tag turnovers. Tondu eventually turned their pressure into points by going over for a second try.

Rhiwbina rallied once more and despite some questionable refereeing decisions and a disallowed try from Lucas, got themselves back into the game with a tremendous try by Owen as weaved his way down the touchline to get on the scoreboard.

Now sensing they were back in the fight, Rhiwbina tagged ferociously which forced errors from the Tondu attack. A disallowed try form Lucas would have levelled the scores and continuous pressure from the Rhiwbina defence also went unrewarded as they forced several more handling errors from Tondu.

The next play saw a break out by the Tondu winger, and despite a last ditch tag attempt by Macca, Tondu stretched their lead to 3-1.

The next play saw Rhiwbina push again for the line. After Elliot and Macca had sucked in the defence in the centre of pitch, Jacob Vincent managed to wriggle into the corner for a second Rhiwbina score.

Game 4: Rhiwbina 3 Tonyrefail 1

Feeling a little jaded after the defeat to Tondu, Tonyreafail took an early lead after some tried tagging by the Squirrels. Fortunately the boys soon found their form again and put on a solid defensive performance with Jacob Baraz making a try stopping tag to close out the first half. After a good half time team talk (no flying tea cups thankfully) the boys took to the field with a new purpose. Sol soon opened the account after another devastating run down the wing.

The black and ambers of Tonyrefail were soon tagged out and from the turnover a deft move between Elliot and Lucas had Lucas draw in the defence and put Owen in for a second try. Sol finished things off with another Rhiwbina breakout after tags by Lucas, Elliot, Macca and a double tag from Josh brought the turnover.

All in all a very successful tournament which earned them well deserved Runners up spot. A big well done to all the players involved - Elliot, Jacob B, Jacob V, Tom E,

Owen P, Lucas, Sol and Macca. Well done boys.

 

Luctonians Tournament  (Sun 17th April 2011)

Photos

Amongst the rolling hills of the Lugg Valley, the Squirrels arrived at a warm & sunny Mortimer Park to compete in the annual Anglo-Welsh tournament hosted by Luctonians.

Game 1:  Rhiwbina 6, Malvern 0.

A slow start saw the Squirrels guilty of a forward pass but regain the ball via a 7TT.  Rhiwbina’s passing style saw Noah put Tom A into space and a 1-0 lead.  Another exchange of turnovers eventually saw Frankie break and pass to Tom A for his and the Squirrels 2nd.

The 2nd half saw Rhiwbina defend well and regain the ball to allow Tom A score the quickest Hat-trick of the season.  Again the Squirrels attacked through Jack M who fed Ethan for a 4th score.  Gethin displayed a trademark run to put Jack M in for a 5-0 lead.  A similar run by Gethin found Jack M again to finish the scoring at 6-0.

Game 2:  Rhiwbina 7, Worcester 3.

The Squirrels opened play with a training ground move allowing Jack M to open the scoring.  Poor Rhiwbina tagging allowed Worcester to level at 1-1. Gethin responded with an elusive run to put Jack B in to regain the lead.  On regaining the ball, Frankie’s jinking run put Noah in the corner for a 3-1 lead.  The Warriors followed Rhiwbina’s lead by scoring through some wonderful passing to end the half at 3-2.

Frankie extended the Squirrel’s lead with a solo effort followed by a team effort to put Tom A in for 5-2.  Another attack involving all 7 players saw Gruff find Gethin for a 6th try.  Following Jack M’s route 1 run, Gethin was on hand to make it 7-2.  Worcester finished the scoring at the end for a 7-3 result.

Game 3:  Rhiwbina 6, Lucs Knights 4.

The Squirrels opened play through Gethin’s elusive run finding Noah for a 1-0 lead only for Lucs to level.  Another JJ move eventually found Ethan in support to regain the lead.  After a Lucs foot in touch,   Gethin, Tom A, Jack M & finally Noah went in to extend the lead to 3-1.  Lucs responded to turn around at 3-2.

The 2nd half began when Jack B faked a switch and found the entire left side of the field undefended to score.  Lucs again displayed good teamwork to reduce the deficit to 4-3.  Another line break saw Jack M put Frankie in to reinstate the 2 try lead.  A key turnover saw the Squirrels regain the ball followed by a team move finished by Ethan.  As time ran out, the Squirrels switched off to allow Lucs the final try, ending the game at 6-4.

Game 4:  Rhiwbina 7, Bromyard 0

Rhiwbina raced to a 2-0 lead courtesy of Jack M & Gethin.  Following another 7TT, Jack M jinked the length of the pith for the 3rd score.  As time ran out, Tom A thundered down the wing to make it 4-0 at halftime.

Following a good team move, Tom A added to the scoring followed by another long range effort by Jack M to make it 6-0.  On the last play, another team effort was finished by Ethan to end the game at 7-0.

The Squirrels now faced a repeat of last season’s semi final with another North Cardiff Derby against Pentyrch.

Semi Final:  Rhiwbina 7, Pentyrch 3

Gethin took 1st phase ball and delivered a superb side-step to split the Tyrch defence to take the lead.  On regaining the ball, Noah & Ethan combined to allow Jack M to double the lead.  Pentyrch responded well and halved the deficit only for a good team move see Jack B feed Ethan to extend the lead to 3-2.  On the last play of the half, the Squirrels roared downfield but knocked on allowing Tyrch run unopposed to score.  A 4-1 halftime lead was now only 3-2.

Rhiwbina opened the 2nd half with a crucial score by Tom A only for Pentyrch to peg the score back to 4-3.  With the game in the balance, the Squirrels upped a gear with a team move finished by Frankie, a great solo effort by Gethin and finally another team effort that was converted by Jack B to finish the game at 7-3.

In the final, Rhiwbina faced Augusts’ season opening opponents in the form of Gwernyfed.  Not quite the 10,000 spectators at the Cardiff City stadium, but plenty of good support from both sides.

Final:  Rhiwbina 4, Gwernyfed 2.

Rhiwbina opened the scoring through a training ground move finished by Gethin.  Gwernyfed showed why they were in the final with a good move to equalise.  Jack M split the Green defence and had Noah at hand to take a 2-1 lead.  Rhiwbina attacked again but knocked on 1m out allowing the boys from Talybont to run the length for the field to level at halftime with 2 each.

Faced again with a potential crisis, Rhiwbina again found another gear.  Jack M was awarded the 2nd half opener only for the referee to cancel the score on the advice of the linesman.  The next attack saw Jack B exploit a narrow gap to squeeze in for a 3-2 lead.  By now, the Rhiwbina defence was unyielding and following a 7TT, the entire team found Gruff & then Tom A who finished the scoring at 4-2,  winning the tournament for a 2nd season in a row.

Many thanks to the Luctonians club who once again put on a fantastic tournament.

 

Llandaff North  (Sun 10th April 2011 - Away)

A glorious morning on the banks of the River Taff saw the Squirrels make the short trip to Hailey Park to play Llandaff North.    

Game 1:  Llandaff North 0, Grey Squirrels 8.

The Squirrels started strongly with tries from Gethin & Frankie.  Following a 6TT, good passing saw Ethan extend the lead to 3-0.  A loose pass by LN saw Frankie make a high steal and feed Gethin who ran in for a 4-0 halftime lead.

LN started the 2nd half but were forced into a 6TT.  Gethin & Frankie combined to put Jack M in for the 5th try.  After another 6TT, Tom A thundered down the wing and had Noah on hand to make it 6-0.  Another 6TT saw the Squirrels attack again with Tom A claiming his 1st then 2nd of the day ending the scoring at 8-0.

Game 2:  Llandaff North 1, Red Squirrels 0.

After an exchange of turnovers, LN got on the scoreboard for a 1-0 lead.  The remainder of the game saw strong defence on both sides with both Rhiwbina & LN getting close but not adding to the scoreboard.

Game 3:  Llandaff North 4, Brown Squirrels 6.

The Browns opened play and scored through Tom E only for LN to level at 1-1.  A combination of tries & 6TTs from Daniel & Owen P saw the lead extended to 3-1.  LN pressed the Squirrels line but the ball was lost to Tom E who ran the length of the pitch, passing to Owen P for his 2nd and a 4-1 lead at the half.

LN started the 2nd half with a try followed by Owen’s hat-trick to make it 5-2.  LN scored again only for Tom E to get his 2nd straight from the re start.  As time ran out, LN claimed their 4th try ending the game at 6-4.

 

Newbury Tournament  (Sun 3rd April 2011)

Photos

An early start saw the U8s set off to a blustery Royal Berkshire and the Newbury Festival.  

Game 1:  Rhiwbina 7, Devonport Services 1.

Play started with an exchange of turnovers followed by Devonport scoring the opening try. The Squirrels came back with Tom A’s try to level followed by Jack B’s score to take the lead.  Ethan added two tries either side of halftime to extend the lead to 4-1.  

A 7TT gave Rhiwbina possession leading to Tom A’s 2nd & then 3rd tries and a 6-1 lead.  On the final play of the game, Jack B scored the Squirrels 7th and his 50th of the season to end the game at 7-1.

Game 2:  Rhiwbina 5, Redingensians 5

Rhiwbina took an initial lead when Tom A went over for the lead.  Redingensians replied with 2 tries taking a 1-2 lead into halftime.  In the 2nd half, Tom A equalised followed by Ethan’s score to regain the lead.  Reds came back to level again at 3-3.  Ethan became the 2nd player of the day to reach 50 tries for the season.   Reds replied again at 4-4.  

Once again, Rhiwbina edged ahead through Tom A.  With time running out, Redingensians scored a crucial equaliser.  The Squirrels have 1 last push for the winner but knocked on 5m from the line ending the game at 5-5.

Game 3:  Rhiwbina 8, Topsham 3.

Rhiwbina started with an elusive run & score from Gethin followed by Topsham’s equaliser.  The Squirrels then hit a purple patch when Jack B, Noah and Jack B again contributed to a 4-1 halftime lead.   Topsham started the 2nd half with greater determination but a pass went straight to Ethan who ran it back 40m supplying Jack B for the score.  

Topsham then had their own purple patch bringing the score back to 5-3.  A couple of 7TTs then gave Gethin, Tom A & Noah tries to extend the lead and settle the scoring at 8-3.

The Squirrels were now faced with the final pool game in which the winner would proceed to the final.

Game 4:  Rhiwbina 7, Windsor 5.

Windsor opened play and scored on tag 5 for a 0-1 lead.  After travelling, Winsor regained the ball & doubled the lead.  Good Rhiwbina passing led to Tom A halving the deficit, only for Windsor to extend their lead to 1-3.  With a win needed, the Squirrels moved up a gear scoring tries through Noah & Ethan to level the half at 3-3.                                                       

Windsor scored the 1st try of the 2nd half.  It was time for Rhiwbina seize the game and a combination of tries from Jack B, Noah & Tom A took them to a 6-4 lead.  Windsor replied again but as time ran out, a good team move resulted in Tom A’s try and a 7-5 final score.

Final:  Rhiwbina 4,   Winchester 2

The U8s final was moved to the 1st XV arena in front of the main stand and was bathed in glorious sunshine.  An initial combination of crisp attacking play and solid defence saw Jack B & Noah both score for a 2-0 lead.  Winchester replied to halve the deficit.  

As the 1st half drew to a close, Gethin’s elusive run left defenders grasping as he went in for a 3-1 halftime lead.

Winchester started the 2nd half well and were rewarded for their efforts with a score to halve the deficit.  Rhiwbina replied with a passing move going right then left eventually finding Jack B who restored the 2 try lead at 4-2.  

As time ran out, the Squirrels defended well and ran out the clock to win the U8s tournament & trophy.

Many thanks to Newbury RFC and all U8s teams for organising & competing in a fantastic tournament.

 

Barry, Droitwich and Pontypridd  (Sun 27th March 2011 - Home)

Photos

Rhiwbina Greys 9, Pontypridd 'A' 8.
Rhiwbina Greys 10, Barry 'A' 4.
Rhiwbina Greys 6, Droitwich 4.
Rhiwbina Reds 5, Ponty 'B' 5.
Rhiwbina Reds 9, Barry 'B' 5
Rhiwbina Reds 8, Rhiwbina Browns 3.
Rhiwbina Browns 8, Barry 'B' 6.
Rhiwbina Browns 5, Ponty 'B' 5.

A dry & sunny morning saw the U8s joined by Barry, Droitwich & Ponty for our first visit to Rhiwbeina Primary School.

Round 1 saw the Grey Squirrels face Ponty 'A' in a high scoring opener.  With the lead changing hands a few times, the Greys finally edged ahead, winning 9-8.  The Reds opened against Ponty 'B' and initially went behind but fought back to earn a 5-5 draw.  The Brown Squirrels started against Barry 'B'.  Again another close encounter saw an even score until the Browns pulled away to win 8-6.

Round 2 matched the Greys against Barry 'A'.  Although not a great deal between the teams, Rhiwbina made the most of their chances and finished 10-4 winners.  The Reds played Barry 'B' and had a similar result, eventually winning 9-5.  The Browns took on Ponty and had an enthralling game ending in a 5-5 draw.

In the 3rd and final round, the Greys played our English visitors from Droitwich.  A very tight encounter saw the score at 4-4 with 2 minutes remaining.  Strong Squirrels defence coupled with good counter attacking saw Rhiwbina score 2 tries at the end to finish 6-4 winners.  The Reds faced the Browns.  Although the first half was close at 3-2,  the Reds scored another five 2nd half tries to end the game at 8-3.

In all, a dozen fantastic matches were played.  As well as Barry & Ponty, we'd particularly like to thank Droitwich for travelling down from Worcestershire.  Also, a special thank you goes to Keith Harding & Father Andrew for giving the U8s permission to use the Rhiwbeina School pitches on what was a great morning of rugby.

 

Chippenham Tournament  (Sun 20th March 2011)

Photos

The sun bathed Allington fields welcomed the Squirrels for the 1st tournament of the spring hosted by Chippenham RFC. Rhiwbina had entered teams in both the Chiefs

(Grey Squirrels) and Cherokees (Red Squirrels) tournaments.  

In the Greys were Cai, Ethan, Frankie, Gethin, Gruff, Jack M, Jack B, Noah & Tom A.

The Reds were represented by Alfie, Elliot, Jacob B, Jacob V, Josh, Lucas, Owen S, Oliver, Sol & Tom E.

The score summaries were as follows:-

Game 1:  Grey Squirrels 5. Cowbridge 3.

In the South Glamorgan derby, Jack B opened the scoring followed by tries for Gethin, Frankie Ethan & Tom A.  A few handling errors made the game tighter that we would have hoped.

Game 1:  Red Squirrels 4, Bath RFC 3.

Jacob B opened the scoring following a good pass from Josh, Both teams exchanged tries with Jacob V & Lucas’ brace giving the Reds a narrow 4-3.

Game 2:  Grey Squirrels 2, Corsham 1.

The Squirrels started the stronger and built a 2-0 halftime lead through Frankie & Tom A.  The only venture Corsham made into Rhiwbina’s half was for their try early in the 2nd half.  Interestingly, the Greys had three 2nd half tries disallowed but a big defensive effort kept the score at 2-1.

Game 2:  Red Squirrels 5, Salisbury 4.

The Squirrels opened with a direct run & score by Lucas.  A pair or tries by Josh & Ollie gave the Reds a 3-1 lead. Ollie’s route 1 runs caused chaos in the Salisbury defence supplying Elliot & Josh again to score & pinch a 5-4 win.

Game 3:  Grey Squirrels 5, Swindon 0.

By now, the Greys were moving the ball well and opened the scoring through Gethin’s finish.  Jack B & Cai both got on the scoreboard to make it 3-0.  In the 2nd half, Ethan added to his tally with a 4th and Gethin finished things with his 2nd of the game to make it 5-0 at the end.

Game 3:  Red Squirrels 5, Corsham 5.

The 1st half started well for Rhiwbina as tries from Sol, Lucas & Sol again saw them go in 3-1 up at halftime.  Corsham came back strongly with 3 tries in a row to take a 3-4 lead.  As time ran on, tries from Elliot, Corsham & finally Lucas ended the game at a fair 5-5 draw.

Game 4: Grey Squirrels 5, Salisbury 2.

Jack B opened the scoring with an effort from halfway.  Following a 7TT, Ethan doubled the lead only for Salisbury to pull one back.  In the 2nd half, the Greys dominated play with scores form Frankie, Jack M & Gethin.  Salisbury scored the final second to make it 5-2 at the end.

Game 4:  Red Squirrels 3, Marlborough 4.

Rhiwbina started strongly with scored from Lucas & Ollie for a 2-1 lead at h/t.  Jacob B added to make it a 3-1 lead.  Marlborough then showed their quality by scoring 3 unanswered tries to end the game at 3-4.

Game 5: Grey Squirrels 5, Sherbourne 2.

Sherbourne had a couple of quality & fast players who immediately carried the ball up field for a 1-0 lead.  The Greys had a wobble by turning over the ball through unforced errors.  Jack M got Rhiwbina back on track when his run supplied Jack B to level.  The Squirrels got a loose ball back into Ethan’s hands who went ¾ of the pitch to take the lead.  Three more long range efforts form Tom A, Noah & Jack M eventually saw the game end at 5-2 and a place in the final.

Game 5:  Red Squirrels 1, Stow on the Wold 2.

As both teams lost to Marlborough , the winner of this game would go in as the 2nd play off team. Stow opened the scoring only for Lucas to level for a 1-1 h/t score.

The 2nd half was a very defensive affair with good tagging on both sides.  Eventually, it was Stow who broke the dead lock with the only try of the half ending the game at 1-2.

The Reds finished 3rd in their pool just missing out on the knockout stages.  Their effort in attack & defence was tremendous and we look forward to the Newbury tournament in 2 weeks.

Chiefs Cup Final: Rhiwbina Grey Squirrels 5, Tetbury 1.

Tetbury started play with a physical style and opened the scoring.  Rhiwbina replied from the start when the 2 Jack’s executed a training ground move for Jack M to equalise.  A 7TT saw Rhiwbina regain the ball resulting in Tom A, Gethin & finally Frankie scoring for a 2-1 lead.  The Squirrels came again but had a try disallowed for being off feet.  By now the Rhiwbina defence was unyielding and when possession came back, another long range team move saw Jack M go in to make it 3-1.  A loose Tetbury pass was collected by Jack M who fed Gethin to add to the Squirrels tally.  As Tetbury forced a comeback, another loose pass was collected and found Noah who went in the left corner for a final score of 5-1.

Many thanks to the Tetbury coaches & players who were most gracious & complimentary at the end of the game and to Chippenham for running a fantastic tournament.

 

St Peters  (Sun 13th March 2011 - Home)

Parc Cae Delyn was bathed in Spring Sunshine for the visit of St Peters.  With an A & B tournament at Chippenham just a week away, four 10 minute games featuring 2 Grey & 2 Red Squirrels matches were played.

Game 1: Grey Squirrels 6, St Peters ‘A’ 0.

The game started with an exchange of 6TTs.  Rhiwbina opened the scoring when Jack M broke right and supplied Gethin for the run in.  Following a loose Rocks pass, Gethin collected and found Noah in support to double the lead.  The Rocks pressed up field but ran out of tags.  Rhiwbina replied ran 40m from the tap to extend the lead to 3-0.

Following another 6TT, Frankie led another charge and made a great offload to Jack M who ran in for a 4 try lead.  Again, the Squirrels forced another 6TT and quickly made good use of the possession when Gethin went over for his 2nd of the day.  By now, Rhiwbina were playing flowing rugby and the final passage of play saw all 7 players involved, ending with Gruff going in to end the game at 6-0.

Game 2:  Red Squirrels 6, St Peters ‘B’ 2.

Rhiwbina opened play when Alfie carried forward and passed to Lucas who scored the 1st try.  Following a 6TT, Josh doubled the score for the Squirrels only for the Rocks to respond well to halve the deficit.  Rhiwbina immediately replied when Elliot extended the lead to 3-1.

A loose St Peters pass was collected by Elliot who ran it back to double his tally.  Another squirrels attack ended with Lucas doubling his try count and a 5-1 lead.  

St Peters were rewarded for their persistence with a 2nd try.  On the last play of the game, Macca went route 1 and romped in to finish the scoring at 6-2.

Game 1: Grey Squirrels 5, St Peters ‘A’ 2.

St Peters started play but were were forced into a 6TT.  The Squirrels showed good passing to eventually find Tom A for the opener.  St Peters adopted a route 1 style and worked well as they levelled at 1-1.  Once more, Rhiwbina played an expansive style and eventually found Jack B to run in from 5m.  The Squirrels attack put Ethan into space who had Jack M on his shoulder to make it 3-1.

Again, Rhiwbina adopted an expansive style resulting in Noah scoring from the left wing.  St Peters pressed as far as the Rhiwbina 5m line but ran out of tags.  The Squirrels replied by moving right, ending with Frankie’s 30m run in for a 5-2 lead.   On the last play of the game, the Rocks were rewarded for their positive attitude when they went in at the left corner, ending the game at 5-2.

Game 1: Red Squirrels 2, St Peters ‘B’ 3.

The visitors started play and moved the ball well for a score in the right corner.  Rhiwbina replied when Sol came of the right wing to streak down the left tramlines and feed Jacob B for the equaliser.  St Peters came again with their route 1 style and edged ahead for a 2-1 score.

The game saw a number of turnovers such as 6TTs & feet in touch.  The Rocks broke the deadlock with their 3rd try and a 3-1 lead.  As time ran out, Rhiwbina camped out on the St Peter’s line.  On the 5th tag, Jacob V found a gap in the Rock’s defence to end scoring at 2-3.

 

Cowbridge  (Sun 6th March 2011 - Home)

A cool & sunny Parc Cae Delyn was the venue for the visit of Cowbridge. The day started with a minutes silence in memory of St Josephs U8s player, Rhys Williams, who sadly passed away a couple of weeks earlier.

With tournament season 2 weeks away, both sides agree to play four, 10 minute matches.

Game 1:  Grey Squirrels 5, Cowbridge A 2

Cowbridge started play. After a loose pass, Ethan collected, feeding Gethin & then Frankie who ran in for the opener.  The visitors replied with an equalising score.  

A good passing move by Rhiwbina ended with Ethan retaking the lead.  A 6TT gave the ball to the Squirrels who moved the ball to Jack M to make it 3-1.

As the pace stepped up, Rhiwbina collected a loose pass & put Gethin in for a 3 try lead.  Cowbridge were quite persistent and were rewarded with another try.  As the game came to a close, a good passing movement put Frankie in to finish at 5-2.

Game 2:  Red Squirrels 6, Cowbridge B 1.

The game started with both teams exchanging 6TTs.  Lucas opened the scoring when his tap & go saw him run the length of the pitch to score.  Josh F doubled the lead with a good winding effort.  In contrast to Josh’s dodging, Sol got on the scoreboard by showing his electric pace.  If we thought that was going, Sol added a 2nd and Rhiwbina’s 4th when he went the length of the pitch to score.

Cowbridge were rewarded when they opened their account to make it 4-1.  The Squirrels replied immediately when Josh applied his elusive style to score from the kick off.  As time ran out the visitors lost the ball allowing Rhiwbina to move it wide to winger Josh who ran in from 25m and a 6-1 final score.

Game 3:  Grey Squirrels 2, Cowbridge A 2.

The Greys started their 2nd Game as they finished the 1st with a good passing move, ending with Macca scoring in the corner.  A 6TT saw Rhiwbina on the attack again and a well timed pass by Jack B hit found Ethan hitting the line from deep and running in unopposed.   

The game then became a forward dominated affair with the visitors camped on the Squirrels line. Rhiwbina defended the route 1 attack very well but Cowbridge found a gap to squeeze in to half the deficit.  As time and tags ran out Cowbridge were camped again on the home line. On tag 4, the visitors found the smallest of gaps to in for a 2-2 draw at the final whistle.

Game 4:  Red Squirrels 5, Cowbridge B 6.

Cowbridge opened the scoring only for the Squirrels to reply with a fluid move ending with Alfie finding Owen S to score his 1st try of the season.  The visitors retook the lead followed by Josh F continuing his try run to level at 2-2.  Again, Cowbridge nudged ahead with the Squirrels equalising through Alfie.  Again the sequence was continued when the visitors made it 3-4, to be cancelled out by Owen Ps well taken score in the right corner.  

As time was running out Cowbridge scored the crucial try and took advantage of a Rhiwbina hand off to extend the lead to 4-6.  On the last play of the game, Josh F claimed his 5th of the day with a great individual effort to end game 4 at 5-6.     

 

Llanishen  (Sun 20th Feb 2011 - Away)

Photos

Rhiwbina & Llanishen assembled their respective teams on a boggy Llanishen Park for The Battle of North Cardiff Part 2. It was decided that Rhiwbina’s Grey & Red teams would play their Llanishen equivalents in simulated tournament conditions, each team playing 2 games of 10 minutes duration (no half time) with just a 10 minute turnaround in between. Hectic stuff!

Game 1: Rhiwbina Greys 5   Llanishen ‘A’ 2

Rhiwbina kicked off, probing Llanishen’s defence with some sweeping moves culminating in Noah crossing the line - only to be called back for a foot in touch. From their first possession, Llanishen’s winger showed good pace only to knock on when being tagged near the line. From the restart, a winding run from Tom A set up Jack M to cross for the first try (0-1). Llanishen immediately hit back with a flowing move resulting in a try in the corner (1-1). Tom A set off on a repeat of his first run, eventually passing to Gethin who weaved between 4 defenders to score (1-2).

On their next attack, Llanishen again knocked on, and the ball went through all 7 squirrels before Jack M was tagged just short of the line and the ball turned over. Some loose tagging from the Greys let Llanishen in for a try, before Franky took a pass from Ethan and set off on one of his trademark glides to the line (2-3).

The Greys then stepped up their defensive effort with some tenacious tagging to peg Llanishen back and claim a 6TT. From the restart, the ball was moved wide for Tom A to dance up the touchline again, and grab another try (2-4).

Llanishen moved the ball from one side of the pitch to the other 4 times on their next attack, but couldn’t find any way through, eventually yielding another 6TT. Both sides were now defending ferociously, with 6TTs and a couple of ‘foot in touch’ moments resulting in a very fluid game.

Eventually, the Greys engineered a gap which Ethan charged through before passing to Gruff to finish off the move (2-5).

Llanishen’s final attack ended with a knock-on; first blood to Rhiwbina.

Game 2: Rhiwbina Reds 4   Llanishen ‘B’ 2

In a replica of the opening of the first match, the Reds completed some good passes to allow Lucas to cross for a try, only for it to be ruled out for a foot in touch.

On their first possession, Llanishen came close to scoring only for their pocket rocket to also fall victim to the touchline. A mix-up in the middle saw Llanishen seize on a loose ball, string together a few neat passes, and put their winger into the corner for the opening try (1-0))

Both sides knocked the ball on in attack several times as the game became more open, before Cai rumbled up the middle from a quick restart and passed to Elliot to run in the Reds first of the day (1-1)

Llanishen pushed close only to lose the ball on the tryline, and the Reds swept up the pitch with a flowing 5-pass move culminating in Sol crossing the line (1-2). Unfortunately, some loose tagging resulted in Llanishen scoring immediately from the restart (2-2).

Next came one of those moments to warm a coaches heart, as relative newcomer Mac caught the ball on the halfway line and took route 1 through the middle of the Llanishen defence to claim his first ever try (2-3)!

The Reds grabbed their first 6TT of the day, and Jacob B immediately set up a 6-pass length-of-the-pitch move finished off by Owen in the corner; great stuff (2-4).

Llanishen’s final attack was snuffed out with some good tagging; 2-0 to Rhiwbina.

Game 3: Rhiwbina Greys 4   Llanishen ‘A’ 1

Llanishen caught the Greys cold with a rapid move from the KO, ending with them crossing the tryline but the score being wiped out for diving; a lucky escape! But not for long - Rhiwbina turned over the ball with a foot in touch for Llanishen to grab the opening try of the rematch (1-0).

A flowing move from the restart almost put Franky into the corner for a try, but some very committed tagging from Llanishen prevented the score - with Franky being injured in the process.

Llanishen again pressed for the try, but lost the ball. The Greys produced a flowing length-of-the-pitch move but were denied a try with a 6TT.

The Greys seized the ball back with a 6TT and then came the move of the morning. From Jack M’s quick tap, Tom A jinked up the touchline before slipping the ball to Noah who cut back against the defence and passed to Gruff. A classic draw & pass put Jack B into space before Jack M flung the ball wide for Gethin to step on the gas. Tagged just short of the line, Gethin found JackM in support, who then delivered a final pass to Noah who ran into the opposite corner to score (1-1).

That score seemed to spur on the Greys, with JackM pouncing on a loose ball to set free Gethin, Noah and finally Jack B who crossed the line to take the lead (1-2).

Josh claimed a loose ball to break up Llanishen’s next attack, and Tom A then created space for Jack B to score again (1-3).

Llanishen ran into touch on their next attack, and the Greys pressed hard for their fourth, with both Franky and Josh being tagged just short of the line. Finally, on the 5th tag, Franky made it across (1-4), and the Ref blew for the end of the game.

Game 4: Rhiwbina Reds 7   Llanishen ‘B’ 3

Whatever the coaches said during the break - it worked! From the KO, Llanishen’s attack was under immediate pressure, culminating in Jacob B picking up a loose ball and passing to Nathaniel who ran in from half way to strike the first blow for the Reds (0-1).  

Some great defence killed off Llanishen’s next attack with a 6TT, and then Elliot’s quick tap set up a flowing move which ended with Jacob B extending the lead (0-2).

Llanishen appeared to have no answer to the Reds defence now, conceding another 6TT without making any ground. Unfortunately, a loose pass saw Llanishen quickly regain possession and just about squeeze into the corner for a try (1-2).

Right from the restart, Lucas set off on an arcing run which took him into the corner for the Reds third try (1-3). That was quickly followed by a fourth for Sol, who picked up a dropped Llanishen pass to run the length of the pitch (1-4).

Llanishen grabbed a try back on their next move, only for Sol to latch onto Alfie’s pass to restore the 3-try lead (2-5).

Lax defence let Llanishen in for a soft try (3-5), and then Lucas was denied by a foot in touch after Flynn had burst through the defence. Pressure from the Reds caused a forward pass and a turnover, with Cai then setting off on a remarkable 40-yard rumble to claim a deserved try (3-6).

Just before the final whistle, Lucas managed to evade most of the Llanishen team only to be tagged just short of the line. Fortunately, Sol was in close support to step over for the final score, completing his hat-trick in the process (3-7).

Four games, four victories, 20 tries scored & some great teamwork; the boys are back in town, just in time for tournament season!

This match was remarkable for two milestones reached: 350 tries have been scored by our under 8s this season (Jack B claimed the 350th), and Gethin scored his 50th try

 

Pontypridd  (Sun 13th Feb 2011 - Home)

It’s been 112 days since we were last at Cae Delyn and both the Squirrels and Pontypridd were welcomed with endless rain from start to finish.

Game 1:  Rhiwbina Greys 6, Pontypridd 4.

The opening game featured both sides strongest 7 and it was the visitors who opened play with their now familiar direct style taking a 1-0 lead.  Following an exchange of 6TTs, Rhiwbina launched an attack and equalised via Jack B.  

Another 6TT saw the Squirrels regain the ball and capitalised when Tom A scored for a 2-1 lead. Another exchange of turnovers eventually saw Ponty move to the Squirrels line and equalise on the stroke of halftime.

The visitors opened the 2nd half scoring only for Jack B to claim his 2nd try and a 3-3 score.  The visitors edged ahead once more only for Tom A to fly down the right wing to level again.  With time becoming short, Frankie & Jack M combined to feed Gethin who beat 4 players and take a 5-4 lead.  Another 6TT gave the Squirrels 1 more attack; the ball finding Jack M who scored to end the game at 6-4.

Game 2:  Rhiwbina Browns 6, Pontypridd 10.

The visitors opened play by scoring straight away.  Rhiwbina replied through Gruff, only for Ponty to restore their lead.  In reply, Sol & Gruff combined to put Ollie in for a 2-2 score line.  Ponty hit a purple patch when they scored 3 tries in a row.  Flynn & Sol combined well to cut the deficit when Sol scored to make it 3-5. The visitors finished the half with another 2 tries to make it 3-7 at the half.

Ponty extended their lead at the start of the 2nd half.  The Squirrels didn’t rest as Ollie thundered up the middle and had Sol at hand to make it 4-8.  Again, Ponty kept the scoreboard ticking over with another try.  Sol was having a great day when he scored his hat trick bringing the score to 5-9.  As time ran out Ponty scored their 10th of the game only for Rhiwbina to finish the scoring at 6-10 through Elliot’s try.

Game 3:  Rhiwbina Reds, Pontypridd 3.

The visitors were first out of the blocks with 2 quick tries.  The game became a defensive affair with a few turnovers on both sides.  Rhiwbina halved the deficit when Nathaniel made a good run up field and had Lucas in support to score, making it 1-2 at halftime.

As the 2nd half began, Ponty restored their 2 try buffer.  The Squirrels replied through Josh’s try to make it 2-3.  Defences dominated again.  However, the breakthrough was made by Cai who claimed an equalising try, ending the game at 3-3.  

 

Pentyrch  (Sun 6th Feb 2011 - Away)

Following an extended Christmas break, the U8s made their way through the vertical Garth drizzle and Pentyrch RFC.

Game 1: Pentyrch 3  Rhiwbina 9.

Despite the freezing conditions, Rhiwbina started play by putting the ball through hands, finding Ethan on the left wing who ran in for the opener.  Good Squirrels defence forced a 6TT.  Rhiwbina pushed up field and found Jack B on the right to double the lead.  Another 6TT saw the Squirrels gain the ball, resulting in Gethin delivering a trademark run and score.  Again Rhiwbina attacked and made it 4-0 courtesy of Frankie.  

The hosts were rewarded for their efforts when they scored to make it 1-4.  As the half drew to a close, Frankie eluded the whole defence to score his 2nd and a 5-1 halftime lead.

Pentyrch reduced the deficit with the 1st possession of the 2nd half.  The Squirrels replied when Tom E split the defence and ran down the middle to score.  Rhiwbina stepped up a gear and scored two tries by Jack M to make it 8-2.  

Pentyrch replied with another try followed by a 2nd for Tom E who finished the scoring at 9-3.

Game 2: Pentyrch 5  Rhiwbina 2

The game opened with 2 quick tries for Pentyrch.  The Squirrels made good progress up field finding Jacob B out wide, who had Ollie in support to go over from close range.  Both defences dominated the 1st half and it ended 2-1 to the hosts.

The 2nd half opened with a Pentych try followed by a winding effort from Josh F to make it 2-3. Rhiwbina had numerous visits to the Pentyrch line but couldn’t quite complete the last pass.

Pentyrch added 2 more tries at the end of the half to end the scoring at 5-2.
 

Sept to Dec 2010 U8’s reports here

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Rhiwbina U8’s 2010-11

Previous Years

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As U8’s (2010-11)

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Sept to Dec 2010 U8’s reports here