DMP U14s made the short trip to West Hartlepool on Sunday for their latest County Plate fixture, producing one of their most complete performances of the season in challenging conditions. With rain falling throughout and the pitch growing heavier by the minute, both sides deserve huge credit for serving up an entertaining and committed contest.

The opening quarter was tight, with neither team giving an inch. West eventually broke the deadlock after 15 minutes, capitalising on a rare gap to take the lead. Given the tough run DMP have endured in the first half of the season, it could have been a moment that caused heads to drop — but instead it sparked the visitors into life.

What followed was some of the best rugby the group has played all year. Sharp interplay, confident handling despite the weather, and a series of outstanding defensive sets swung the momentum firmly in DMP’s favour. By half-time, the boys had not only responded but taken control of the match.

The second half continued in the same vein. A spread of try scorers reflected the team’s growing confidence, with strong carries, clever support lines, and relentless tackling allowing DMP to pull away on the scoreboard. West, to their credit, never stopped competing and forced DMP to defend their line on several occasions — tests the visitors met with real determination.

At full time, DMP emerged deserved 34–10 winners, a result built on teamwork, resilience, and a willingness to play positive rugby in difficult conditions.
A big thank you goes to West Hartlepool for hosting and to the referee for managing an excellent game throughout.

Try Scorers

• Hamish SB x2
• Sonny C
• Peter S
• Jacob R
• Leo SC

Conversions

Hamish SB x2

MOTM was awarded to George Routledge for his outstanding workrate, leadership and defensive presence.

Brilliant effort from all involved, keep up the good work lads!

#MowdenFamily