Momentous Day For West Norfolk U8’s As They Field Two Teams To Compete With Holt

For the first time ever West Norfolk U8’s Tag Rugby team have enough players to field two teams; two quality teams who on Sunday competed on equal terms with the perpetually strong Holt U8’s squad of players.

Given the fact West has attracted new players during the early part of this season the decision has been made by the coaching staff to create two teams with a view to developing all the players in a far more structured and consistent manner. The two teams, Tigers and Pumas had their first run outs at Holt.  The day was organised in a round – robin tournament format with the Tigers and Pumas taking on Holt Blue and Holt Red.

As always the Holt teams were very strong and played some really good passing rugby, clearly a squad of players moving towards next year’s transition to full contact rugby. What was so pleasing for the West Norfolk coaching staff and parents was the fact the Tigers and Pumas also showed some good flowing rugby and organisation. A real achievement considering it was their first outing as two distinct teams.  The mini tournament produced some great games, the Tigers who consist of; Bertie, Charlie, Alex, Shen Wei, Frederick, Raven and Edward won against Holt Blue but were narrowly defeated by Holt Red and West Norfolk Pumas. This left the Tigers in the Plate final with Holt Blue. This third and fourth play-off game was a 3-3 draw with both teams battling to the end. The Tigers scored 15 try’s on the day ( scorers Bertie, Charlie and Shen Wei) and they played really good rugby.  The other West Norfolk team, the Pumas, who consist of; Freddie, Elan, Roman, Felix, Danny and Ryan beat Holt Blue, Holt Red and the Tigers to reach the final match against Holt Red. In the final Holt Red had the legs on a tired Pumas team and they ran out winners by 8 try’s to 5. The Pumas scored 16 try’s during the tournament ( scorers Felix, Ryan, Danny, Freddie and Elan )

As is becoming habitual everyone who watched the young players from West and Holt were impressed with their energy, skill and approach to the games. Despite the very strong and cold wind all the boys and girls played very well. The West Norfolk coaching staff awarded its performance medals on the day to Elan and Edward both of whom demonstrated the team play approach to the max - which the coaches are trying to instil in all the players.