Despite the moans and groans the lads won 2 and lost 2. We pipped Llandaff in the first game 6-5 before getting our first hammering of the season against Clifton. End score was 5 –1. They did to us what we have been doing to others all season – swarming defence, forcing errors and securing turnover in defence coupled with great running lines, sweat passing and bundles of support in attack. Next season we have home (9th December) and away games against Clifton, and a bundle of other top local teams as we aim to really challenge our squad. So our closed season training will need to be purposeful to ensure we compete against these substantial local Clubs.

Next up was Nailsea and backwell and having refereed their two earlier games I was confident our boys would step up and turn on the style. It was not to be, we went down 6 – 4 and with it the heads temporarily dropped. By this time the majority of the lads had been in the wet and windy elements for over 3 hours.

Whilst waiting for the referee for our final game against Cleve we had a really positive team talk about what a great season we have had and the commitment the lads have all shown over the season. What fun we had last weekend at our annual dinner and how it would be great to dig deep for one last game before we hang up the tags. The lads showed a massive improvement in their desire. After every try (to Cleve or Us) they turned and ran back into position and faced up to the opposition & their on-field coach. The lads won 6 –3 but were going home, albeit with some pride restored.

There were glimpses of what we have all become accustomed to. Stefan and Joe nearly pulled off a cracking switch. Harvey and Alfie picked out some great running lines, Sam played with passion and purpose throughout whilst Dylan & Big Ted shone in the last game. Ben K & Leon O’C look reassured with ball in hand and made good ground, Ted Bs running has massively improved as he is growing in confidence. However, 2 Lads that did not have a great time were Ben T, who left Cleve frozen halfway through the games having to attend another event and Leon W who got a minutes play before aggravating a foot injury.

Reports back suggest the Flap Jacks courtesy of Paul were excellent. A massive thanks to all the supporters, helpers, parents and siblings that turned out in support.

One big positive about the wet and windy weather is that our pitches will be just right for getting stuck into tackling, take down bull dog and rucking on Wednesday night ! Come on down to our mid week Mud Fest as we aim to ensure purpose and fun go hand in hand during our closed season training.

I think we are now U9s......