Tries:       Harry B (2)

Cons:       Hector H (2)

The Junior Colts A XV got their season underway in strong style on The Lower on Saturday with a hard-fought victory over Canford.

Although billed as a training match, the game quickly developed into a full-blooded contest, in which the home side was required to put in a tremendous defensive effort. Our visitors certainly had the better of the possession and territory statistics but, time and again, they foundered against an almost impregnable Sherborne wall. Barely a tackle was missed all afternoon and, ultimately, it was this intensity and determination which created opportunities at the other end. Harry B was the main beneficiary, with two superbly-taken tries, both from some distance, but George E, Angus E, Fin G, and the midfield combination of JP T and Hector H all enjoyed super games, and were at the heart of everything good that the team produced. Nonetheless, the key element of this win really was 'team', and it was wonderful to see the focus and whole-hearted commitment throughout the squad - not least from several players in unfamiliar roles. Only a nasty-looking injury to Hector S marred the day, while it would be the most hard-hearted of defence coaches who begrudged Canford their consolation try from the final play of the match.

Next week sees another dark blue visit to light blue turf as we host Marlborough in the first of two matches against the Wiltshire school this term. Do, please, join us on the touchline if you can!