Caldy Festival - Plate Runners Up
On a very cold Sunday, a strong 21 man squad travelled to Caldy, accompanied and supported by a strong contingent of parents. I think some mum's might have preferred a lie in and a cosy day by the fire;-)
Sandbach were drawn in a group with Ruthin, Caldy and Anselmians. In the opening game, a well drilled Ruthin side defied the elements with a strong passing game, but the Sandbach defence, which has shown improvement over the last few weeks, countered many attacks. Eventually Ruthin were able to break down the defence and score a winning try.
The second fixture was always going to be difficult against a strong Caldy side, who we have played on a number of occasions in 2012/2013. In a well contested game, Caldy scored two tries to nil and went on to share the Festival Cup with Bowden from Group 2.
The final group fixture against Anselmians did not start well, as the Sandbach boys gave their opposition too much space and time with he ball, which resulted in two tries. All credit to the boys as they raised their game and responded with three tries in a strong second half performance (scorers - Kieran, Ewan and Danny). The win secured a plate final against Chester.
The Plate final was played in an excellent spirit, Sandbach again showed their generosity by conceding two tries to a strong Chester team. Once again the Sandbach boys sparked into life n the second, but playing against the elements were unable to counter the Chester scores, but definitely matched their opposition.
All the boys deserved and earned their medals today and they are reward for all the effort that you have put in over the last few weeks. You are playing some great rugby, in the spirit of the game and growing into a strong squad - keep it up.
Thanks to Caldy for a well organised festival and the usual hospitality. The U13 tournament was played in an excellent spirit by the teams and we look forward to returning next season.