U13 Crofters goes marching on to the County Cup Final

Burton RFC U13s 23 v 12 Newcastle RUFC U13s

Burton RFC was buzzing for this 12:15 kick off on the Croft, for this eagerly awaited Staffordshire U13s County Cup Semi Final – and the look on all the boys faces as they ran out of the tunnel onto the pitch was fantastic.

From start to finish this contest was keenly fought by both sides, which made an exciting afternoons rugby.

After 5 minutes Burton stamped their intentions on the game with a fine try – to plan. The ball was turned over on the opposition’s 22, Charlie Bunting ships quick ball left, along the line to will beardsmore and George Poutney. George straightens the line up, and Oli Mears finishes with his blistering pace on the left, despite the attention of two Newcastle defenders – one of which hurt his shoulder in the process and was taken to hospital – we hope he’s okay. 5-0 to Burton

After 10 minutes Callum Broderick put more points on the board with a penalty from the 22 metre line, in front of the posts. 5 minutes later a quick tap penalty put George Poutney in on the left corner, to extend the lead to 13-0.

The game was certainly going to plan by the Crofters.

Thereafter the home side seemed to take the foot off the gas, and Newcastle had a lot of pressure for the remainder of the first half, which was superbly defended by Burton. Half time 13-0.

With fresh legs on for the home side, Newcastle exerted more pressure in the Burton 22, with a series of penalties, and forced themselves over in the right corner. Score 13-5.

This seemed to jolt the Crofters into action, and with phase after phase of play in the Newcastle half, two phases of quick ball sucked in all the Newcastle defence and Burton had a massive overlap on the left, which Callum Broderick finishing neatly under the post. He converts his own score. 20-5.

After 15 minutes Newcastle come back at the home side, with the forward pressure. Several lineouts and a freekick later, the ball is forced over from close range, with the conversion to follow. 20-12.

Burton using their heads, gained a penalty in the opponents 22, which was superbly slotted by Danny Causer, bringing the final score to 23-12.

A superb result for Burton U13s, who will now play Stoke U13s in the Staffordshire County Cup Final. Well done Boys !

The U13s showed that when they play the game their way, they are very difficult to live with, and played some superb rugby today. Again much to improve and build upon going forward, but a great day for all today.