St Benedict's U15s have look of Champions

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 28th of November 2011

St Benedict's School Under 15s have had a tremendous start to the rugby season, winning all 15 matches, scoring 1014 points and conceding just 30. The highlights of the season so far have been a 118-0 victory over St James' Catholic High School, the 23-7 win against Wellington School and the team's progress through the Daily Mail Cup, in which they have now reached the sixth round.

Following on from early November victories at home against Mill Hill School (76-0) and away to Reigate Grammar School (64-0), St Benedict's beat Queen Elizabeth School, Barnet 48 3 away in the fifth round of the Daily Mail Cup on Thursday 24th November. Having flown through the competition so far, the Ealing boys had a sterner test against a very physical Queen Elizabeth side. A converted breakaway try just before half-time by centre Dominic Gorard gave them some breathing space and a lead of 17-3.

After a stern half time talk from Team Coach Richard Finch, the second half was much improved. Captain and prop forward Sam Lewis led by example, with his openside flanker Xavier Crean putting in an exceptional performance, covering every blade of grass on the pitch. Jamie Spanswick was a huge physical presence in the centre, breaking tackles and offloading to his support players on numerous occasions. Man of the Match went to winger Tom Wood, who not only scored a great try in open play, but also made a number of exceptional cover tackles that stopped Queen Elizabeth from scoring any tries. Conor Dolan made an impact on his return from injury, reclaiming his No 8 position.

Coach Richard Finch is cautiously looking forward to more success. 'The boys have been working extremely hard with me for the last six months in preparation for this season and their hard work and focus is beginning to pay off. They are a fantastic all round side, not relying on the flare or talent of just one or two individuals. Each one of the 22 players in the squad has the ability to strike and score. We have split the season into three phases and we have just entered the second, with a huge amount of work and development ahead of us.'