Try: Henry M

Con: Edwin L

The Junior Colts A XV suffered a heavy defeat against Millfield on Saturday, albeit by a margin that - perhaps - flattered our guests. Another impeccable display with the whistle from Mr Nurton helped to contribute to what was a tremendous spectacle, but Sherborne will be ruing the inaccuracies in their play which contributed substantially to last year's result being reversed.

The first half saw some even early exchanges as first the Millfield backs and then the Sherborne forwards put their teams on the scoreboard. Sherborne's well-drilled lineout functioned really effectively to put Henry M over from close range and Edwin L added the extras for an early 7-5 lead. A lightning break from Charlie W followed but, sadly, the attack then broke down with the Millfield defence at full stretch. As the half went on, though, it was the visiting side who took control, scoring three further tries and capitalising mercilessly on any light blue errors.

A half time score line of 7-24 looked threatening and it is greatly to the Sherborne players' credit that, despite several injury disruptions, they restricted Millfield to just two more scores in the second half. Indeed, the game ended with Sherborne hammering at the line whilst previous attacks involving Albi R, Ben L and Edwin L also deserved a greater reward.

There is no shame in losing to a side that is better on the day - as Millfield (recently voted NextGEN XV's Top Rugby School in the World) undoubtedly were, but it is vital that the boys respond to this loss and to the shortcomings, particularly in ball retention and error count, which brought it about. A tough away trip to Abingdon next Saturday is our next assignment, as well as a rematch against Millfield in the NatWest Schools' Cup: we hope to see you there!

Man of the Match: Albi Robinson - dynamic in attack and a constant threat with ball in hand.