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Barnes-storming victories leaves U11's with the Plate

Barnes-storming victories leaves U11's with the Plate

Jason Owen26 Oct 2014 - 18:07
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Gravesend RFC Under 11's should be very proud of their performances after three outstanding victories in the Aylesford Festival.

The U11's made all the coaches very proud men again after the forwards again dominated in the three wins, winning 80% of the scrums and this was matched by the backs punching through holes in the opposition with some improved passing wide when needed.
The festival got off to a cracking start with a 15-0 vistory over a strong Tunbridge Wells side. Josh Saunders and Josh Barnes (2) both going over for a tries.
In the second game versus Maidstone, the Gsss again won 15-0 with Josh Harris nicking in to go over and Barnes again running in two tries.

In our final match against Medway, Gravesend came out 5-0 winners after Toby Emery temporarily switched his usual defensive tough tackling for an attacking run and try. The Gss dug in, encouraged by the large group of parents supporting, defended superbly and deservedly held on for the win.

Forwards:
Captain Max Owen who tackled well all day and drove forward with power stepped up to receive the trophy for the GRFC clubhouse. Lucas Miller who continues to improve each week, was immense coming in to the forwards scrum. Hooker Nick Smith hooked scrum ball very well throughout the games. Arron Carver made some very important tackles, especially as the opposition neared the red zone. Fin Cruise-Smith added some real strength to the scrum pushing back the oppostion time after time. Josh Saunders (aka 'The Tank') demonstrated another great all round performance in attack and defence. Andreas showed his versatility, playing in both the second row when needed and on the wing - particularly showing great hands and awareness of space.

The backs:
William Read proved it's not just the forwards that tackle as he is consistently now making tackle after tackle. Talking of tacklers, Toby Emery, as well as showing great running mentioned above, had a super attitude getting back up after every injury and knock to go again.
Thomas Hobbs, Harvey Dean, Jake Eve and Jack Bowden were always in the right place at the right time; all communicating with each other well and making ground. Like those four mentioned above, Matt Atkinson is a very able runner and able to switch play looking for gaps. It was many of the quick passes out from Dean, Atkinson and Josh Harris that led to Josh Barnes tries - all of which showed tremendous speed and side steps. Harris has a real ability to make extra ground, almost bouncing off the floor, getting back up to sneak forward further when we have the ball, and when we haven't Harris should really wear a ball & chain as he thrives in the art of robbery off the opposition. Fin Mason-Myers ran with real flair and focused attack, firing off some perfect passes at the perfect time to ensure the attack kept going.

A great day!

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