Rugby Roundup

A report by Mr Maguire, Head of Rugby

It was an action-packed week for the U15s, with a dominant win in the Continental Vase and a thrilling victory over Whitgift, while the U16Bs and U14Cs also delivered impressive performances.

Firstly, huge congratulations to the U15As on their magnificent win in the third round of the Continental Vase against Ibstock Place last Thursday. The team delivered a very strong performance, reaching a score of 50-0 by halftime. While Ibstock Place fielded a solid team, our U15A squad was determined to secure an early victory before focusing on their upcoming weekend game. The halftime scoreline also allowed the U15Bs to have a run-out against the Ibstock side in the second half, which was beneficial for both teams and made for an enjoyable half of rugby to watch.

The U15s’ desire to focus on their weekend game was not borne out of any disrespect for Ibstock Place but rather out of the anticipation of playing a fellow unbeaten side in Whitgift School. Unsurprisingly, the match did not disappoint, and SPS emerged victorious with a final score of 21-13 in a tightly contested game. Well done to Mr Harrison and the players for their outstanding performances, both in the Continental Vase on Thursday and against Whitgift on Saturday. It was an absolutely tremendous week for the U15A squad. Not to be outdone, the U15Bs also delivered an impressive performance, defeating Whitgift 41-10.

Unfortunately, the 1st XV, U16As, and U14As came off second best. The 1st XV faced a very strong Whitgift side and lost 8-40; although the scoreline does not reflect what was, in actuality, a very strong performance. Fewer unforced errors could have led to a much closer result, and I am confident that the players will reflect and improve in the week ahead. Credit must also go to Whitgift’s kicker, who converted all but one of their six tries. According to Dr Gilks and Mr Lawrence, the 2nd XV faced a similar challenge, losing by an almost identical scoreline. However, the 3rd XV played a closely-contested match that could have gone either way but ultimately lost 21-26.

The U16As had a challenging game traveling away to Whitgift. Despite the difficulties, they put in a valiant effort, and the final score of 56-19 did not reflect the level of commitment and courage the players showed throughout. Similarly, the U14 As and Bs faced a particularly strong Whitgift year group, sustaining heavy losses. Nevertheless, their determination and effort were commendable.

The U16Bs and U14Cs ensured that the celebrations extended beyond the U15 year group with excellent performances. The U16Bs secured a narrow 24-22 victory, while the U14Cs dominated their match with a 49-12 win. These were absolutely tremendous results: a huge well done to both teams.

SPS v Whitgift School (Home)

1st XV lost 8 – 40

2nd XV lost 10 – 40

3rd XV lost 21 – 26

14 A lost 7 – 47

U14 B lost 5 – 47

U14 C won 49 – 12

Whitgift School v SPS (Away)

U16 A lost 56 – 19

U16 B won 22 – 24

U15 A won 13 – 21

U15 B won 3 – 33