Good old fashioned rugby for fun!

Alton U12's sent a squad to Winchester to take part in a development festival with six other clubs sending squads. This was an excellent opportunity for the players to try different positions, gain experience and have lots of fun in an environment that was competitive but did not have the pressure of striving for finals and silverware. Good old fashioned rugby for fun!

Over the course of six matches the team gelled and got better and better. The rucking and tackling abilities of every player improved with game time and there were were some ferocious tackles from the likes of Joel, Ed L, and Anthony.

When attacking it was good to see passes being strung together by forwards and backs. Myles (now with a big bruise on his nose!) , Reuben, Archie E, and Ed F all made ground against the opposition and looked sharp. Dan W showed his acceleration on a few occasions and relished a good crash ball here and there!

Mixing his time between wing and Scrum Half, Ed B had an excellent day. Nippy and difficult to get hold of, he tied a few defenders in knots and distributed the ball well.

Ben showed his normal calm unflappable approach to a frenetic contact sport, even when in the eye of the storm as he selflessly often was.

Dom Rolt managed to play hooker, second row and centre. He was solid, determined and always keen to make yards, defend or offer himself to whatever the cause required.

Callum showed his usual turn of speed and determined running and was not easy to defend against.

Dan H, Xander and Archie L relish a bull-like approach to taking on the opposition. As was clear from their smiles as contact was made!

Harry was as combative and committed as ever, although an ankle knock reduced his tackle count to to merely excellent!

Two lads in particular showed a never-say-die attitude in every minute of every game they were on the pitch. Joel and Anthony. They played with heart, enthusiasm and bruising intensity.

Well done to all the players for giving their all and playing so well. And thank you to Winchester for organising a great advert for age grade rugby.