12 trys to 9 on the day! Reporter:Liam Ryan

Mowden v Wensleydale 5-6

After a long layoff due to the weather the lads produced a very good performance, especially as they would have been a little rusty around the edges. Add to that a quick session from John, Chris and Andrew on uncontested scrums, line-outs, rucks and mauls, the boys put up a good fight. There was good running from Jack W and Jack R-K, and of course from the try-meister Will Todd who only scored all 5 of our tries! There were good charging runs from Matt, Will, Ben and Lyle and excellent cover tackling from Regan and Toddy. During the second half we lost our way and we dropped too many passes in crucial positions. Basically a lack of concentration being the culprit. We also missed far too many tackles and need to knock the opposition over and not just "hold on". Nevertheless, it was a very spirited performance considering the changes the boys had to take in. Bravo! PS the ref was generous with "extra time"!

Mowden v Middlesbrough 7-3

This time the boys had really shaken off their ring-rustiness and gave a whole-hearted, much-improved running and passing game, although some of the tackling was still lacking. Again the try machine WT scored some great tries (4). All the boys had good runs, the best tacklers being once again, Regan, Will, Lyle and the two Jacks. Lyle ran very well with the ball in hand and scored a deserved try, as did William Hickerson who made a determined dive for the line and got his just rewards. Matthew ran straight and hard all game and gave some great off-loads. Again we must improve our tackling round the legs. All in all though another great team performance!

Obviously, thanks to parents and coaches for their unstinted support and encouragement.