A cold but thankfully not wet day at Romford and Gidea Park for the first ever encounter between them and Eton Manor U13’s.

Throughout all the years our boys have been playing rugby Romford and Gidea Park have never had a squad at the same age group. Miraculously this year they now have a squad, which is good news for RGP. Whilst queuing for my little Sunday morning treat, a bacon roll and coffee, I overheard some of the opposition parents talking, and it sounded like they were excited at the prospect of their boys taking on The Manor. Although a friendly fixture Romford fielded a big, physical side and with Manor missing a few players and having a few players playing their debut it was looking to be a tough encounter. Mick also decided to try a few players out in different positions.

The match started off very even, they played to their strengths which meant crash ball via their forwards but our boys were up for the challenge (particularly Freddie, whatever he had for breakfast should be given to all the boys as he was on fire). Big tackles from Jack, Anthony, Freddie and Tiernan nullified these attacks.

First try was scored by Adam, but almost immediately Romford also scored, neither was converted 5-5. Once our backs then got into the game and once they had the ball they started scything through their defense all of which resulted in four unanswered tries by Max H, Harry Wag, Anthony and Adam with Jack K converting the last try 27-5. In fairness to Romford their heads didn’t drop and they were rewarded by two tries and a conversion 27-17. Final action of the day saw Jack D go over the line and score. Final score 32-17.

Players of the day probably has to go to the three new boys; Charlie, Red and Simon (who had a great game as full back with numerous very strong runs).

A very good run out for the boys, a few experiments by Mickie and plenty for him to think about as we head into back to back league and cup matches.

By Gary Mountford - EMRFC Snr Rugby Correspondent.