Rhiwbina U8's

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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) Reports Sept to Dec 2010

Contact the U8’s

Llanishen (Sun 12th Dec 2010 - Away)

With Cardiff parks off for a 5th consecutive week, the U8s had a dawn gathering at the Whitchurch AstroTurf for a Christmas Derby against our neighbours from Llanishen.

Game 1: Grey Squirrels 7, Llanishen Reds 7.

Starting in sub zero temperatures, Llanishen warmed things up with a switch move resulting in a 1-0 lead. The Squirrels replied with tries from Noah. Llanishen pressed well but good tagging by Ethan & Alfie forced a 6TT. Rhiwbina extended their lead through Gethin & Frankie, only for Llanishen to rally either side of Gruff’s try to end the half at 4-3.

Gethin opened the 2nd half scoring, only for Llanishen to level at 5-5. The Squirrels pressed again and had Tom E on had to retake the lead. Again Llanishen equalised. As time ran out, Gethin produced a pitch long effort to take a 7-6. Llanishen pressed again and claimed a deserved draw with the last move of the game.

Game 2: Red Squirrels 9, Llanishen Blacks 5.

Llanishen started play only to be halted by a 6TT. Rhiwbina replied when Jack M ran the length of the pitch to open the scoring. A loose Llanishen pass was collected by Jack M who fed Jack B and then Sol to double the lead. The Squirrels regained the ball allowing Tom A to run in for a 3-0 lead. Llanishen scored their first only for Cai & Dylan to supply Sol for his 2nd. After another 6TT, Jack M was in the mood for some distance running and scored another pitch long try to make it 5-2. Llanishen pressed again and scored their second on half time & a 5-2 score.

A Squirrel's knock on allowed Llanishen to close the gap at 5-3. Jack B took the initiative giving Owen P a score in the corner. Llanishen reduced the deficit to 6-4 followed by a whole team move giving Josh F a chance to show his class and extend the lead to 7-4. Again, Llanishen pressed the Squirrels line and scored their 5th. Jack M showed good pace to score Rhiwbina’s 8th in the corner. As time ran out, a loose Llanishen pass was collected by Jack M who passed to Owen & then Josh & back to Jack M to finish the scoring at 9-5.

Game 3: Grey Squirrels 10, Llanishen Blacks 9.

Rhiwbina opened the scoring with two tries from Noah, each one equalised by the visitors. Rhiwbina hit a purple patch with tries from Ethan, Noah & Gruff to make it 5-2. Llanishen replied only for Ollie to regain the margin. As the half ended, the visitors scored their third to make it 6-4.

Llanishen opened the 2nd half with a try followed by Gethin’s elusive run to make it 7-5. Llanishen had their own purple patch, levelling the scores with 2 tries. A route 1 run by Ollie ended with a pass to Frankie who ran in to regain the lead. Frankie scored again to give the Squirrels a 9-7 lead. Llanishen attacked again and halved the deficit at 8-9. With time running out, the Squirrels hoped to seal the win and good support play by Alfie saw the buffer restored to 10-8. Llanishen again showed good attacking play and scored the final try at 10-9.

Game 4: Red Squirrels 6, Llanishen Reds 5.

Llanishen burst out of the blocks taking a 3-0 lead. A Llanishen fend turned the ball over to Rhiwbina who saw Tom A run in from 40m to score the Squirrel’s opener. A 6TT gave Rhiwbina the ball which eventually saw Jack M run down the tram lines to reduce the deficit to 2-3 at the break.

Jack M continued his good form by levelling the scores with the 1st possession of the 2nd half. Llanishen retook the lead, followed by a great team effort by the Squirrels ending with Jack Ms hat-trick and a 4-4 score. Following a couple turnovers, Josh did his Houdini impression by winding through a gapless defence to give Rhiwbina their 1st lead. Llanishen levelled at 5-5. As time ran out, a good passing move finally saw the ball passed to Josh who scored a classic winger’s try, ending the game at 6-5.

Game 5: Rhiwbina A 9, Llanishen A 5.

Llanishen fumbled the 1st possession allowing Gethin to run in for the opener. Both teams exchanged tries with Tom A, Jack M & Tom A again contributing to a 4-4 score. Gethin retook the lead at 5-4. The Squirrels then forced a 6TT on the stroke of halftime.

As the 2nd half started, the Squirrels turned the screw with tries from Ethan & Frankie. The visitors got their 5th. Once again, anther Rhiwbina attack saw Jack M add to his haul. Llanishen pressed for the line but a fumble was collected by Jack M who fed Tom A who gave the scoring pass to Gethin to finish the game at 9-5.

Game 6: Rhiwbina B 9, Llanishen 8.

Llanishen opened play with the 1st try. Following a couple of turnovers, Josh equalised for the home team only for Llanishen to regain the lead. The Squirrels levelled via Tom E. Again, Llanishen scored only for Jacob B to get his 1st of the day. A 6TT saw Rhiwbina regain the ball and made good use of it courtesy of Owen Ps try & a 4-3 lead at half time.

Opening the 2nd half, Lucas seized the initiative by extending the lead followed by a Llanishen try and then Lucas again to make it 6-4. Llanishen halved the deficit only for Alfie to restore the 2 try lead. The visitors stepped up a gear with a brace to level at 7-7. Alfie was in the scoring habit with his 2nd of the match only for Llanishen to level again. In the last passage of the game, the Squirrels pressed for a winning try and had Lucas on hand to score his hat-trick and a 10-9 score line.

Pontypridd (Sun 7th Nov 2010 - Away)

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An early start saw the U8s visit a clod & sunny Taff Vale Park.

Match 1 - Pontypridd 3, Rhiwbina 4.

Ponty opened play and scored from their first possession. Following an exchange of possession, the Squirrels combined through Jack M, Gethin, Gruff & finallt Ethan to equalise. Following an exchange on knock ons, Rhiwbina were stretched and just forced a 6TT on their own try line. Jack M & Elliot then combined to supply Tom A with a scoring run and a 2-1 halftime lead.

The 2nd half started with 2 turnovers. Rhiwbina broke the deadlock when Ethan split the home defence and put in Jack M to make it 3-1. Ponty replied by showing their improved passing ending with an excellent try. Courtesy of Frankie, another pair of 6TTs eventually saw the Squirrels launch another attack created by Jack M ending with Tom As romp for his 2nd score. Pony’s route 1 style eventually paid dividends and reduced the score to 3-4, leaving the Squirrels to run down the clock.

Mike's comments

A tense match, both teams very committed, but Rhiwbina edging it with great tagging and strong attacking play. Ponty very gracious in defeat. Nice to see both sets of boys forming a tunnel, clapping each other, and shaking hands at the end.

Match 2 - Pontypridd 2, Rhiwbina 4.

The home side opened play and the scoring with a close range effort. The squirrels reply ended in touch. Ponty attacked again and doubled the lead. Rhiwbina were penalised for fending off. As Ponty looked for a third, a loose pass was collected by Ethan. As the counter attack moved upfield, Ethan turned up at the end to score. On regaining the ball a good move involving Elliot & Gethin put Tom in to level the score at 2-2. As the Squirrels gained momentum, Ponty were herded into touch on the stroke of halftime.

Following a team talk, Rhiwbina opened the 2nd half by putting the ball through all 8 players, ending with Noah crossing for a 3-2 lead. Both defences then dominated by forcing a couple of turnovers each. Jack M then sols a great dummy and supplied Gethin who jinked down the touchline to make it 4-2. Good tags from Franky & Noah forced aother 6TT. In the last play, a length of the pitch move from all 8 Squirrels found Elliot, but disallowed for diving and ended at 4-2.

Mike's comments:

All 8 boys played full time - 40 minutes of rugby on a boggy pitch.

Ethan, Gethin, JackM, Gruff, Noah, Elliot, Franky, TomA

Ponty played route 1 mostly, and were well-drilled. Rhiwbina defended very well - committed to standing up to Ponty's bigger boys and focussed on getting the tags in defence. As morning went on, Rhiwbina played more expansively and put together longer and longer strings of passes under pressure. Some knock-ons, but mostly positive stuff.

We could learn from Ponty's positional play - they had boys running from deep at speed which made it very hard for us to defend. In contracts, we tended to align very flat and made life difficult for ourselves!

Excellent refereeing from Ponty. Very clear, unbiased, and consistent.

Very fair matches, both sets of supporters entering into good natured banter & appreciation of both teams.

Ponty coaches highly complimentary of our boys, and looking for more opportunities to play us.

All 8 boys were a credit to Rhiwbina.

Cheltenham Tournament (Sun 31st Oct 2010)

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In the shadow of the Cotswolds, a mild yet overcast Newlands Park was the venue for the Halloween tournament held by Cheltenham RFC. The tournament was a 16 team affair, split into 4 pools.

Game 1: Rhiwbina 6, Ledbury 1.

Rhiwbina opened the scoring after 7 seconds when Gethin roared in from the start. Following a run into touch, Jack B doubled the score with a 30m run. Ledbury halved the deficit with some good passing only for Ethan to restore the 2 try buffer on the stroke of half time.

Ledbury opened the 2nd half with a 7TT. The Squirrels replied with good run by Jack M who put Jack B in for the score. On regaining possession, Tom E & Dylan combined well to supply Gethin for a 5-1 lead. Cai contributed to another 7TT gave the Squirrels one more chance to finish the scoring through Jack M for a 6-1 score.

Game 2: Rhiwbina 5, Stow on the Wold 2.

In what was viewed as being the pool decider, the Squirrels opened up a 2-0 lead; both courtesy of Gethin. A solid Rhiwbina defence turned the ball over. A good move eventually saw the ball passed to Ethan who made it 3-0 at the break.

The 2nd half saw the Squirrels extend the lead to 4-0 through Jack B. Stow replied by halving the deficit to 2-4. With time running out, Rhiwbina made sure of the win when Jack M crossed for a 5-2 final score.

Game 3: Rhiwbina 6, Fairford 1.

In the final pool match, Rhiwbina opened the scoring via Gethin, only for Fairford to equalised with a good move. Following an exchange of possession, the Squirrels stepped up a gear and scored through Jack B & then Gethin to go in 3-1 at half time.

The 2nd half started with the Squirrels defence forcing a 7TT. After that, the rest of the game became the Jack B show as he added 3 more tries to give him 4 for the match & a 6-1 win for the team.

Semi Final: Rhiwbina 7, Droitwich 6.

Unknown to the Squirrels, Droitwich U8s had never been beaten and showed why by opening the scoring. Rhiwbina equalised only for Droitwich to go ahead 2-1. The Squirrels came back and levelled again through Tom E. Once again, Droitwich regained the lead and following a Rhiwbina lapse, extended the lead to 4-2. As the 1st half ran out, Rhiwbina regrouped and clawed one back to trail 3-4 at the break.

The 2nd half started with Droitwich extending the lead to 5-3. The Squirrels came back again with a score from Josh. With only 2 minutes left, Droitwich grabbed what was looking like a crucial try and a 6-4 lead. With Rhiwbina facing an early exit, an all out assault on the try line saw Josh cross to make it 5-6.

The Squirrels defence then forced an amazing 7TT to regain the ball & pushed up field to send Josh in for his hat trick and a 6-6 score with less than a minute to play. Rhiwbina now had the momentum and completed another 7TT. One last push saw a series of passes end up with Ethan who went in for a 7-6 lead. Droitwich were given the last play of the game. After 6 tags, the Droitwich winger had the try line in his sights, but was foiled by Ethan’s last gasp tag to end the game at 7-6.

Final: Rhiwbina 5, Hucclecote 3.

The Squirrels opened play through Ethan’s try. After an exchange of possession, Hucclecote equalised only for Ethan to extend the lead to 2-1 at halftime.

Hucclecote started the 2nd half by drawing level at 2-2. Rhiwbina stepped up a gear when Jack M scored and the Squirrels defence forced a 7TT. Jack M then scored a crucial try to give Rhiwbina a 4-2 lead. Hucclecote came again and reduced the score to 3-4. As time ran out an elusive run by Gethin ended with Josh making it 5-3, sealing the win and the championship.

Pentyrch and St Josephs-Newport (Sun 24th Oct 2010 - Home)

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Another triple header saw the visit of Pentyrch & St Josephs of Newport to a fresh & sunny Parc Cae Delyn.

Game 1: Grey Squirrels 9, Pentyrch 2.

Pentyrch opened play to be held by a strong Squirrel defence. Following a 6TT, Jack Bs long run had Tom A on the end of it for a 1-0 lead. Following a fumble, Ethan recovered the ball and ran ¾s of the pitch to allow Jack B the easiest of scores. Tom A got his 2nd to extend the lead followed by Jack M who made it 4-0 at the break.

Rhiwbina started the 2nd half with Tom As hat-trick. Following a 6TT, Jack B doubled his tally and extended the led to 6-0. Pentyrch started to make headway and were rewarded with their 1st try. The Squirrels took the restart straight back to the Tyrch line and made it 7-1 through Ethan.

Another 6TT allowed Gethin to score his 1st of the day. Pentyrch replied when a good move resulted in a penalty try, reducing the score to 8-2. As time ran out, the Squirrels moved up field and scored courtesy of Jack M who finished the game at 9-2.

Game 2: Red Squirrels 4, St Josephs 6.

The Reds opened the play and scored through Lucas. St Joes had a purple patch with 3 tries of their own. Rhiwbina came back when Oliver reduced the deficit to 2-3. St Joes came again and extended the lead to 4-2 at the break.

The 2nd half started with an exchange of 6TTs. St Joes scored another followed by a good Squirrels move involving Lucas, Oli, Owen, Jacob B & finally Jacob V bringing the score to 3-5. Rhiwbina got within 1 try when Ollie crossed but as time ran out, St Joes ended the scoring to settle the score at 6-4.

Game 3: Red Squirrels 5, Pentyrch 9.

The Reds started only to concede a 6TT. Pentyrch opened the scoring only for Owen to elude numerous defenders to equalise. A 6TT gave the Squirrels the ball and a 2-1 lead following Noah’s try. Pentyrch then scored 3 unanswered tries to make it 4-2. As time ran out Lucas pulled a try back a try to go in 3-4 at halftime.

In the NFL, there is a view that the 3rd quarter is all important. Pentyrch certainly applied this theory as they scored 4 unanswered tries to lead 8-3. Oli added to his personal tally to reduce to deficit. Pentyrch added one more before a good team try saw Noah go in for the last try and a 5-9 final score.

Game 4: Grey Squirrels 5, St Josephs 1.

St Joes started play but conceded the ball following a 6TT. Rhiwbina opened the scoring through Gethin. Tom A doubled the lead following some good support play.

Once more, the Squirrels regained the ball and scored two more, both by Ethan to finish the half at 4-0.

The second half became a slightly more physical affair and the scoring opened with a forceful run by the visitors. The Greys replied when Jack M outpaced the defence to end the scoring at 5-1.

Game 5: Rhiwbina 7, Pentyrch 3.

With 2 bigger squads, Rhiwbina & Pentyrch played a final match before returning to the rec.
Rhiwbina opened the scoring when Tom E went down the left and scored in the corner. Jack M doubled the lead only for Pentyrch to claw one back to 2-1. The Squirrels pressed again and had tries from Jack B & Gethin taking them into a 4-1 at the half.

Following a Squirrel knock on, Pentyrch reduced the deficit to 2. Tom A was on the scoresheet again as he extended the lead to 5-2. Another turnover gave Jack B a chance to add to his haul with a further try, followed by Tom E who scored his 1st career hat-trick. On the final play of the game, Pentyrch had the last word when they scored their 3rd of the match, ending the game at 7-3.

Cricc and St Peters (Sun 17th Oct 2010 - Home)

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The 1st frost of the autumn gave way to a glorious morning at Cae Delyn, where a feast of Rugby awaited Rhiwbina, CRICC & St Peters. Each team brought 2 teams, each playing 4 matches through the morning. Rhiwbina U8s were split into Grey & Red Squirrels.

Grey Squirrels – Jack B, Josh F, Gethin, Noah, Owen S, Cai, Tom E, Jacob B, Jacob V, Dylan, Nathaniel & Daniel.

Red Squirrels – Oli, Ethan, Gruff, Jack M, Tom A, Owen P, Frankie, Sol, Lucas, Liam & Alfie.

Round 1.

Grey Squirrels 9, CRICC A 6. – Tries by Jack B (5), Gethin, Noah & Josh.

Red Squirrels 7, St Peters A 2 – Tries by Jack M, Tom A (4), Frankie & Lucas

Round 2

Grey Squirrels 8, St Peters A 5 – Tries by Jacob B, Noah, Jack B (2), Gethin (2) & Josh.

Red Squirrels 8, CRICC B 2 – Tries by Frankie (2), Tom A, Jack M, Ethan, Owen (2) & Sol.

Round 3

Grey Squirrels 5, St Peters B 4 – Tries by Gethin (2), Dylan (2) & Jacob V.

Red Squirrels 8, CRICC A 5 – Tries by Tom A (4), Jack M (2), Sol & Lucas.

Round 4

Grey Squirrels 6, CRICC B 4 – Tries by Josh, Dylan (2), Noah & Gethin (2)

Red Squirrels 7, St Peters B 1 – Tries by Jack M, Tom A, Frankie, Oli, Owen, Sol & Alfie.

Thanks to CRICC & St Peters who contributed to a fantastic morning of rugby. A special mention for Lucas who scored 2 tries & Dylan who scored 4. Both players giving excellent performances.

Llantwit Major (Sun 10th Oct 2010 - Home)

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The Indian summer returned as a blustery Parc Cae Delyn welcomed the boys from Llantwit Major.

Game 1: Rhiwbina 5 Llantwit Major 3.

The visitors started play only to turn over the ball when going into touch. Rhiwbina replied with a good passing move that ended with Jacob B opening the score. After an exchange of possession, LM levelled. The Squirrels pushed for a 2-1 lead and scored via Jack B on the stroke of halftime.

Rhiwbina opened the 2nd half and extended the lead to 3-1 when Ethan ran in down the left wing to score. LM replied with a penalty try, only for Jack B & Josh F to execute a fine switch pass allowing Josh to run in for a 4-2 lead. LM came back & reduced the deficit to 1 score. However, as time ran out, Sol & Jack B combined for the latter to finish the scoring at 5-3.

Game 2: Rhiwbina 6 Llantwit Major 1.

A defensive start to the game saw the Squirrels and Jacob V force two 6TTs. Rhiwbina moved up a gear when Ethan scored in each corner to open a 2-0 lead. After regaining possession, the Squirrels made progress when Nathaniel ran for the line & offloaded to Tom A to make it 3-0 at the interval.

Rhiwbina opened the 2nd half with a Try by Jack M. After another 6TT, Jack Ms elusive run drew enough defenders to allow Tom A the simplest run in to make it 5-0. LMs endeavour was rewarded with their 1st try. However, Rhiwbina had the last try when Tom A claimed his hat-trick and a 6-1 win.

Game 3: Rhiwbina 9 Llantwit Major 1.

LM started play and moved the ball up to the home 5m line. A loose pass was collected by Ethan who ran to halfway and offloaded to Tom E who ran in for the opening try. The next possession passed through all 7 pairs of hands ending with Gethin who raced down the left wing to double the score. Two consecutive 6TTs allowed Rhiwbina to score, firstly through Ethan followed and another by Gethin. On the stroke of halftime, Frankie got his first of the day and the Squirrels fifth.

The 2nd half began when Gethin set up Frankie for his 2nd try and a 6-0 lead. Another 6TT gave Gethin his hat-trick. LM were rewarded for their effort when they scored their first try to make it 7-1. Rhiwbina got their eighth try following good support play by Jack B. As time ran out, Gethin produced a brilliant winding run to claim has fourth try and a 9-1 final score.

Many thanks to Llantwit Major for playing 3 games, allowing all of the Rhiwbina players to play a full game.

Clifton Tournament (Sun 3rd Oct 2010)

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After the early departure from the Rec, the team bus passed the 2010 Ryder Cup and arrived at a damp Cribbs Causeway to compete in the Clifton tournament. After a ½ hour registration period, the rain stopped just in time for the start of play.

Rhiwbina 3, St Mary’s Old Boys 1.

The Squirrels started play and were 1-0 up after 6 seconds courtesy of Jack B. SMOB replied with a few passes but a loose pass was collected by Ethan who flicked a pass up to Gethin to run in and score.

After a couple of turnovers, St Mary’s halved the deficit to make it 2-1 at halftime.

The muddy conditions resulted in the ball being turned over on both sides. Eventually, the Squirrels put a completed a good series of passes allowing Tom A for a 3-1 lead.

For the rest of the game, Rhiwbina shut down the St Mary’s attack by forcing another 7TTs followed by the final whistle.

Rhiwbina 6, Cleeve 1.

Cleeve started play only to face a 7TT. In reply, Rhiwbina opened the scoring through Jack B again. Jack B collected a fumbled ball which allowed Gethin to run in and double the lead. Again the Squirrel’s defence proved too strong and another 7TT gave Tom another try and a 3-0 halftime lead.

Rhiwbina started the 2nd half with a try by Ethan. Cleeve replied with a well deserved try. Rhiwbina then stepped up a gear when a fluid move between Tom A, Gethin & finally Noah made the score 5-1. As time ran out, Rhiwbina had 1 more attack which was converted by Gethin’s trademark winding run and a 6-1 result.

Rhiwbina 4, Clifton Lions 1.

The final pool match was started by the hosts but a loose pass landed in Gethin’s hands to make it 1-0 to Rhiwbina. Clifton found a rare gap in the Squirrels defence to equalise at 1-1. Rhiwbina regained the lead courtesy of Ethan. The Lions rallied but missed an out due to a foot in touch. The Squirrels took advantage when Noah scored to make it 3-1 at halftime.

After a couple of turnovers, the hosts fumbled the ball, allowing Gethin to run in for a 4-1 lead. The remainder of the game was scoreless as the Squirrels were peanalised for specifically English infringements such as 2 handed carrying leaving the final score 4-1.

Final: Rhiwbina 7, Bath RFC 3.

As the sun came out, our illustrious opponents started play only to concede a 7TT. Sticking with tournament form, Jack B opened the scoring for Rhiwbina. A loose Bath pass was collected by Ethan who fed Tom A to double the lead. A gap in the Rhiwbina defence allowed Bath to half the deficit. A good run by Noah allowed Gethin to increase the lead to 3-1. The 1st half ended with an exchange of possession and a 3-1 score line.

An over complicated move resulted in the Squirrels knocking on. Bath replied by bringing the score to 3-2. With silverware at stake, Rhiwbina moved up to another level and scored two quick tries by Gethin and Frankie to make it 5-2. Bath chipped away at the Rhiwbina lead with another score.

Then a quality move involving Jack B, Lucas, Ethan & finally Gethin extended the lead to 6-3. As time ran out, Bath threw caution to the wind, but a loose pass was collected by Jack B who romped in to seal a 7-3 win and the tournament.

Caerphilly Tournament (Sun 26th Sept 2010)

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A cold & sunny Virginia Park welcomed the Grey & Red squirrels for our 2nd Caerphilly tournament. The tournament format was based on an 8 team league with Rhiwbina’s 2 squads facing Caerphilly, Dowlais, Blackwood, Llandaff North, Ponty & Nelson. The 13 score summaries are as follows.

Red Squirrels 1, Blackwood 4. - Try scored by Elliot.

Grey Squirrels 5, Dowlais 0. - Tries scored by Gethin, Noah, Ethan, Jack B & Tom A.

Red Squirrels 0, Nelson .

Grey Squirrels 3, Caerphilly 1. - Tries by Jack M, Ethan & Frankie.

Red Squirrels 3, Llandaff North 2. - Tries by Liam & Jacob B (2)

Grey Squirrels 6, Llandaff North 0. - Tries by Ethan, Jack M, Tom A, Gethin, Gruff & Jack B.

Red Squirrels vs Dowlais – Dowlais withdrew from tournament.

Grey Squirrels 3, Pontypridd 1. - Tries by Tom A & Gethin (2)

Grey Squirrels 4, Red Squirrels 1.- Tries by Owen, Ethan, Jack B, Jacob V & Josh F.

Grey Squirrels 6, Blackwood 1. – Tries by Gethin (3), Tom A (2) & Jack M.

Red Squirrels 5, Caerphilly 2 – Tries by Sol (2), Oliver, Jacob V & Jacob B.

Red Squirrels 1, Pontypridd 6. – Try by Elliot.

As the shadows became longer the Grey Squirrels faced a winner takes all match against The Unicorns of Nelson.

Final: Grey Squirrels 3, Nelson 0.

Nelson started play and took play right up to the Squirrels line running out of tags. Rhiwbina moved the ball upfield but lost possession at half way. The Squirrel’s defence started to turn the screw and forced a 6TT while conceding no ground. Gethin’s elusive run created enough room for Tom A to open the scoring at 1-0.

Another 6TT gave Rhiwbina good field position and following some good passing, Jack B romped into the right corner to double the lead. The Unicorns threw caution to the wind but one pass went to ground and was collected by Gethin who ran in from 30m to win the game & the tournament.

Mountain Ash - Sun 19th Sept 2010

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After opening the season with 3 weeks of fixtures away from home, the U8s returned to a mild & overcast Parc Cae Delyn for their opening home game against the Old Firm of Mountain Ash.

Game 1: Rhiwbina 7, Mountain Ash 5.

The visitors opened play and the scoring after an offside call against the Squirrels. Rhiwbina replied when Jack B raced in straight from halfway. The Old Firm extended the lead to 2-1 only for Frankie to equalise with an elusive run. The visitors came again and were rewarded with another try.

As the half came to a close, Rhiwbina pushed for the line ending with a 2nd for Frankie and a 3-3 tie. Mountain Ash pinched another score to lead 3-4 at the break.

The Squirrels opened the 2nd half when Jack B thundered down the left to equal the score at 4-4. A textbook switch pass was well executed by Mount who made the score 4-5. The home side lifted their game when Tom A, Sol & Jack B all connected to put Noah in for his 1st of the day.

Following a turnover, Rhiwbina pressed left giving Sol a chance to show his pace and score from the right wing and a 6-5 lead. Another 6 tag turnover (6TT) gave the Squirrels a final chance which was taken by Tom A who outpaced the Mount defence to end the scoring at 7-5.

Game 2: Rhiwbina 6, Mountain Ash 5.

The 2nd match started with the visitor’s attack being held by the Squirrels who took route 1 courtesy of Gethin’s elusive run & score up the middle. The Old Firm replied with their opener. Following a sneak down the right, Gethin was tagged and had Ethan on hand to score from 1m out.

Mountain Ash kept the scoreboard ticking over with another score. From the re-start, Ethan drifted right and exploded down the left to extend the lead to 3-2. Again, the visitors replied with a levelling try to turn around at 3-3.

Rhiwbina opened the 2nd half with a good passing move via Tom E, Gethin & finally Oliver who regained the lead, only for Mount to level at 4-4. Good Squirrel hands moved the ball up field allowing Tom E to squeeze in the right corner.

Following a turnover, the Squirrels took advantage courtesy of Ethan who stormed in from his own half for his hat-trick and a 6-4 lead. As the game drew to a close, Mount were rewarded for their efforts by scoring the last try, resulting in a 6-5 final score.

Game 3: Rhiwbina 6, Mountain Ash 3.

Mountain Ash opened the scoring from their 1st possession. Rhiwbina replied when a good run from Owen ended up in Elliot’s hands to equalise. A loose pass by the visitors was collected by Jacob B who showed good pace to give the Squirrels a 2-1 lead.

Good tagging by Flynn & Jacob V made the Old Firm work hard for their 2nd try. Jacob B then contributed in attack by scoring on the stroke of halftime and a 3-2 lead.

In the 2nd half, Tom A extended the home lead, only for Mount to peg the score back to 4-3. Tom A was on form as he extended the lead, followed by a 2nd for Jacob V and a 6-3 lead. Mount pushed to reduce the deficit only for the Squirrels to force a 6TT, leaving the score 6-3 at the final whistle.

Many thanks to Mountain Ash RFC who played 3 matches with a very small squad, enabling the 21 Rhiwbina boys to each play a full match.

St Peters - Sun 12th Sept 2010

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The first scheduled fixture of the season saw the U8s visit a cool & dry Harlequin field to play St Peters for the 2nd consecutive week. A number of the Llantwit Major tournament squad were rested to give the remaining boys a full 1st game; including our new summer signings, Elliot, Owen & Sol.

Game 1: St Peters 6, Rhiwbina 5.

The Squirrels opened play through Lucas who ran down the right tramlines to open the scoring. St Peters replied with an early purple patch by scoring 3 unanswered tries. As the 1st half drew to a close, Lucas created a duplicate of his 1st try by scoring on the right corner for a 2-3 score.

The 2nd half started with the Rocks extending their lead to 4-2. Rhiwbina replied when Josh sprinted in to the left corner and was awarded a penalty try for being tackled on the try line. St Peters kept the scoreboard ticking with another try only for Gruff to open his account to make the score 4-5.

After some good tagging by new signing Owen S regained possession, a sneaky blindside run by Dylan led to Tom E squeezing in the left corner to tie the score. As time ran out, the Rocks had 1 last push and scored the winner on the final whistle.

Game 2: St Peters 5, Rhiwbina 7.

A new set of Squirrels took to the field and scored early courtesy of Owen P. St Peters levelled at 1-1. Rhiwbina stepped up a level when a fluid move involving Elliot, Sol & Owen P eventually put Oliver in for his 1st score. The Squirrels extended their lead when Elliot exploited space on the left to make it 3-1 at halftime.

The Squirrels opened the 2nd half with a good move between Owen, Ollie & finally Elliot who scored his 2nd of the day. St Peters had another purple patch, scoring twice to narrow the score to 4-3. Elliot replied with a strong run and had Oliver in support to extend the lead to 5-3. Again the Rocks, replied with another 2 scores to level at 5-5.

As time ran out, Ollie returned the compliment and supplied a scoring pass to Elliot to take a one try lead. As St Peters pressed for an equaliser, a handling error allowed Rhiwbina one more attack resulting in numerous hands carrying up field ending with a final try by Jacob B and a 7-5 shoreline.

Llantwit Major Tournament - Sun 5th Sept 2010

Photos

A wet and windy Llantwit Major welcomed mini teams from all over South Glamorgan at the Squirrels first tournament of the season.

Game 1: Rhiwbina 4, Llanishen 4

Rhiwbina started play and exchanged possession a couple of times until Llanishen opened the scoring. Rhiwbina replied with their first try from Tom A in the centre aided by a great run down right wing by Jack B. Llanishen then scored their second and again Rhiwbina replied with their second from Noah to make it 2-2 at halftime.

Llanishen opened the 2nd half with a score to make it 3-2. The Squirrels replied with a good run from Ethan only to be tagged 5m from the try line, Jacob V being in support to equal the score.

A couple of 6 tag turnovers followed for both teams. As the game came to a close, Llanishen scored their fourth. Rhiwbina had 1 possession left to salvage a draw, and got the equaliser through Ethan resulting in a 4-4 scoreline.

Game 2: Rhiwbina 6, St Peters 0

St Peters started and almost scored but for a great tag by Jack M. A loose pass was picked up by Jack M then a great run by Gethin resulted in Rhiwbina's first try. Rhiwbina regained possession and Oli passed to Jack M who ran and scored in the right hand corner. Rhiwbina’s third came shortly after via Noah, Oli to Jack M, Gethin with a great off load to Noah to score.

Gethin’s side step made it 4-0 at halftime.

The 2nd half started when Tom A romped in to make it 5-0. Another Rocks attack resulted in a loose ball that was picked up by Jack M who ran in to make the score 6-0 two minutes in.

The tournament rules stated that if a team had a 5 try lead, then the final whistle would be blowed. Thus the 6-0 score was recorded.

Game 3: Rhiwbina 9, Barry 1

The Squirrels opened with a try from Tom A followed by a 2nd by Noah. A loose Barry pass was collected by Jack M who ran in to make the score 3-0. Jack M collected another loose ball and supplied Ethan who extended the lead. Jack M was on fire as he collected another loose pass which gave Gethin a run in for a 5-0 lead. As it was still the 1st half, both coaches decided to play the full game. As the half drew to a close, Jack M made an elusive run and had Ethan in support to go in for a 6-0 lead.

Barry started the 2nd half and was rewarded for the effort with their 1st try. Rhiwbina added to their tally when Tom A made it 7-1. Barry pressed the line again but ran out of tags. This gave Jack B the chance to gallop the full 60m to extend the Squirrel’s lead. The scoring finally came when Noah was on the end of a fluid move to record a 9-1

Although a semi final was not planned, Rhiwbina & Llanishen had the same record and thus agreed to have a play off to determine who went to the final.

Semi Final: Rhiwbina 3, Llanishen 5.

Llanishen opened the scoring when one of their many pocket rockets went in under the bigger Squirrel defenders. Ethan equalised with a forceful run down the right wing, only for Llanishen to reply for a 2-1 lead. Both teams showed their defensive qualities by exchanging 6 tag turnovers. both teams. As the 1st half drew to a close, the Squirrels were hit by a Llanishen try courtesy of their pocket rocket and went in trailing 1-3.

Llanishen opened the 2nd half and scored through their main weapon again to make it 1-4. The Squirrels showed tremendous character in scoring through Jack M and then Tom A bringing the score to 3-4. As Rhiwbina tagged to try and force extra time, our miniature nemesis broke down the left wing to make the score 3-5.

Congratulations to Llanishen who were worthy winners on the day, beating Penarth RFC 8-1 in the final.

Rhiwbina 6 Gwernyfed 3 (Fri 27th Aug 2010 – at CC Stadium)

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The U8s opened their season with a halftime fixture in a cool and dry Cardiff City Stadium in front of 10,016.

A physically smaller Gwernyfed team opened the play and went under the much bigger Squirrels; their inventive style opening a 1-0 lead. Rhiwbina replied when Frankie took route one, allowing Ethan the space to equalise from 15m out. The boys from Talgarth replied with another strong attack, only for Frankie to make a try saving tag 3m out.

Ethan then recovered a loose pass and fed Noah who ran the length of the pith to make it 2-1. Gwernyfed had the ball for 5 seconds before Ethan made a trademark interception, passing to Jack B and then Josh who weaved his way in for a try.

Another loose pass by Gwernyfed was collected by Ethan who pushed up field, passing to Josh and then Tom A who ran in to make it 4-1 at the halfway mark.

Ethan, Josh & Tom made way for Gruff, Jacob & Owen. After an exchange of possession, Gwernyfed reduced the deficit to 2-4. The Squirrels replied immediately when a training ground switch pass saw Jack M put Frankie in to extend the lead. The boys from South Breconshire were still persistent when their No.9 & No.1 combined to score their 3rd try. As time ran out, Rhiwbina completed numerous passes through Gruff, Jack M, Noah, Jacob & finally Jack B to finish the scoring and a 6-3 opening season win.