Weston Open With Cup Victory

Weston U15s got their season off to a flyer with a great cup victory over Keynsham at The Rec on Sunday. After a great summer, the Weston players were itching to get the game going and after kindly being given the opportunity to play on the 1st XV pitch, they did not dissapoint the large crowd. The forwards looked in the mood from the off and immediately put pressure on the Keynsham defence. Good strong rucking was rewarded when Harry Lewis and Liam Hynes both broke the defensive lines to score excellent tries. Stefan Thompson-Rose added a conversion and Weston looked to be in total control. It was only errors from the re-starts that allowed Keynsham into the Weston half and when their strong running centre crossed to score Weston could see last seasons demons revisiting. However unlike last season, Weston did not take their foot off the gas offensively and soon re-established a two score lead when they worked their best move of the match. Excellent rucking by the front five created a solid platform and allowed the backs to show off their handling skills. The ball was worked to Harry Spedding on the wing and his pace was too much for the covering defence. Shortly after, Weston scored their fourth try of the half when the excellent Rhys Langley broke through to score under the posts. Stefan Thompson-Rose added the conversion and Weston now had a commanding 24-7 lead. The lads should really have put the game to bed at this point but once again though, they were asleep at the restart and gave the initative back to Keynsham. With half time approaching, Keynsham crashed over to score and bring the game back within reach.
In the second half, Weston, whilst not adding further, were in control and found themselves playing the majority of the game in Keynsham territory. Several chances to score however went begging and this kept Keynsham in the tie. With only a few minutes left, Keynsham advanced into Weston territory and the lads had their toughest defensive test of the day. They met this head on, with some outstanding tackling and commitment that kept the strong running opposition at bay. With the last play of the game, Keynsham managed to cross in the corner for a very well deserved try, but it was too late to change the result, with Weston winning 24-17. This was a fantastic result for the squad and a great platform to go forward from. Their were excellent defensive performances from Mike Ward, Rhys Langley, Jacob Cox, Liam Hynes, Harry Spedding and James Aucott who all made some outstanding tackles. Stefan Thompson-Rose, Harry Lewis and Aaron Norton all looked extremely good in attack and it was great to see Keinen Holbrook back in a Weston shirt and making the same bone crunching tackles he made his name with. However, the biggest pat on the back is reserved for Charlie Stott, who made his debut for the club and had an excellent game. Nice one Charlie!