QEH was pencilled in as an early tough fixture which would test the U13 rugby team's grit and determination to the core, and so it proved.
Pleasing fluent play from the backs saw the ball go wide to explore the space while the forwards battled hard in the rucks and mauls. Brooker led by example with disciplined aggression - an example that more forwards need to follow. Scrums were strong, lineouts problematic, but two tries when the ball passed through most of the team showed the potential of a full team effort. Tom Leman attacked effectively from full-back, earning a Merit for his efforts while Alex Williams wrestled fiercely in mauls, tackled hard in defence and kept the ball flowing in attack to deserve his Merit.
Despite too much ball lost on contact, not least as an attack was snuffled out on the opposition 5m line with a minute to go, the team can take great heart from the commitment of the whole squad under the positive, encouraging leadership of their captain. Perhaps there is an element of regret for a lost win, but there is now genuine competition for places and a real enthusiasm for the season. Training must be tough but hopes are high.
Final score: Plymouth College 12 QEH 12
