Hertford U-17 19 Royston 0 IN absolutely atrocious playing conditions, Royston took on the might of Hertford rugby club and due to various reasons both teams played a mix of age groups and Royston s 13 players took on 14 from the home side. Despite the

Hertford U-17 19 Royston 0

IN absolutely atrocious playing conditions, Royston took on the might of Hertford rugby club and due to various reasons both teams played a mix of age groups and Royston's 13 players took on 14 from the home side.

Despite the driving rain and the huge amounts of surface water, both sides passed and ran with the ball more than seemed possible.

The out-numbered Royston pack struggled to contain the home sides well drilled rucking in the first half and this led to field position and the only time Royston failed to tackle well led to the first Hertford try.

In the second half Royston managed to ruck more effectively giving parity of possession but Hertford's well drilled defence snuffed out all attacks.

Unfortunately the only time Royston crossed the try line, Graver was called back by the referee who then awarded another penalty to Royston. Belying the conditions, both sides then played all out attacking rugby but only the home side scored.

Royston's team performance was notable for the hard tackling and running of Dan Ritsema and the team welcomed back several former players, James providing his power in the second row and Hoile with his beautifully balanced running in the backs. Jackson captained the side for the first time.

- Royston under-eights continued their impressive season against a previously unbeaten Bury St Edmonds side.

In the two competitive games they came out victors 6-3 and 6-2 with Ashley Jones running in tries from every blade of grass on the pitch.

Jake Letch was awarded a well deserved man-of-the-match for fantastic all-round play.