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 Sheffield Tigers RUFC

  (Established 1932)

A National Three North Club

 U14’s Reports 2009-2010:

 Cup Winners

1999-2000  RFU Tetley Bitter Vase
2000-2001  Yorkshire RFU Shield
2004-2005  RFU PowerGen Vase
2004-2005 Yorkshire RFU Shield

07/05/10 Tigers U14’s End of Season Review
Sheffield Tigers 7 – Sandal 5            (Match Date: 25/04/10)

What a day and a match to finish the season. Glorious sunshine at Dore Moor and an opposition determined to make it a hat trick of wins over Tigers this season. But for Sandal it wasn’t going to be the outcome they expected it to be! After a hard fought and a very competitive game Tigers finished the game as the victors securing a 7 – 5 win.

Harrogate Won 33 - 29 Wymondham Won 56 - 7 Ormskirk Lost 5 - 12 Ilkeston Won 58 - 12 Sandal Won 7 - 5

A look back over the season shows just how much the U14’s have progressed as a squad. They started the season well had a dip in the middle but finished with a flourish of victories. The last 5 games of the season saw Tigers win 4 and lose 1 by the narrowest of margins.



Overall results for the season: Played 16, Won 9, Drew 1, Lost 6, For 473, Against 279

Highest points score by an individual player (Top 5):

Guy Borrowdale	105
Joe Duffy	40
Charlie Hawkins	40
Samir Afzal	35
Dylan Poyser	35

End of Season Awards:
A number of awards were on offer this season and because of the quality in depth across the squad the competition was going to be fierce. Firstly, this depth of ability is reflected in the number of players who have played for South Yorkshire this season.

Certificates of Achievement were awarded for representing South Yorkshire U14’s this season to:
Guy Borrowdale, Joe Duffy, Charlie Hawkins, Will Hardy, Liam Brown, Patrick Selkirk & James Mills

An Outstanding Achievement Award for being selected to attend the Yorkshire CB School of Rugby was presented to: Guy Borrowdale

Main Awards:
Again the strength of this team was reflected in the number and range of players being nominated for each category:

Coaches Award	Lawrence Ayers
Most Improved Player	Oliver Rasch
Players Player	Dylan Poyser
Player of the Year	Dylan Poyser

Winners of the U14 Main Awards

This season has truly been a squad effort. So, a big thank you to all the parents for supporting your son and the club this year, all the coaches who have worked together to provide opportunities for all the players. Last but not least to ALL the players who have worked hard together over the season, displayed grit, determination and have entertained us with their rugby. BRING ON NEXT SEASON!

Report by: Steve Duffy

Sheffield Tigers RUFC U14s Squad 2009/10

 

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25/03/10 Tigers U14’s Field ‘A’ and ‘B’ Teams for a Successive Week
Sheffield Tigers 'A' 5 – Doncaster 'A' 21            (Match Date: 21/03/10)
Sheffield Tigers 'B' 28 – Doncaster 'B' 39

For the second successive weekend Tigers were able to field an 'A' and 'B' team to face a Doncaster squad at Door Moor. It turned out to be a morning of cracking rugby.

'A' Team game
 A lot of pre game hype had been made about this game and the expectations were high on both sides. Tigers fielded 10 South Yorkshire squad players and Doncaster fielded 7 South Yorkshire squad players. Straight from the off Doncaster applied the pressure but Tigers were equal to the task. Breaking up all Doncaster attacks in very much the same determined way they had the previous week at Derby. The pressure continued and from the scrum in Tiger's 22m, fly-half Joe Duffy put in a high telling kick which Doncaster’s full-back dropped giving the opportunity for winger Samir Afzar to collect and run the ball up field into the opposition 22m where the move was contained, but again the forwards were quick to support and hooker Owen Creaser-Smith collected a loose ball off the floor and made a strong run to the opposition try line. Stopped by, what would be repeated throughout the match, a strong and well coordinated Doncaster defence. Their clearance kick was gathered superbly by centre Will Hardy who combined with Afzar, ran at Doncaster who were showing their technical ability at the break down and were able to secure the ball as soon as Tigers went to ground. However, Tigers were very much in the game and causing Doncaster to be on their guard at all times. Doncaster tried to batter their way towards the try line and looked like getting points on the board but for winger Oliver Rasch who popped up to make two outstanding tackles which prevented them from going over. Tiger’s forwards were holding their own in the scrums and the backs held a strong defensive line making it difficult to get through. But Doncaster kept coming and on twentyfive minutes they managed to breach Tigers defence. Scoring under the posts they also converted, 0 - 7. With half-time looming and spurred on by the setback Tigers played the rest of the half deep in Doncaster’s 22m. Wining a number of line-outs. Forward James Mills put in an aggressive run only to be stopped 5m short of the line. Then from another line-out move Tigers had a try disallowed for a double movement, finally from a scrum Tigers were held up on the line. Half-time meant Tigers could re-group and build on their strong finish of the first half. Lead by Captain Guy Borrowdale the second half started for Tigers much the same as it had finished. A certain try unfortunately went begging as it was knocked-on by flanker Chris Pond who had selected an excellent running line and burst through the line. With most of the possession Tigers pushed Doncaster back and back. Borrowdale, Drubo and Creaser-Smith combined well to secure a penalty 5m out. Quick thinking by scrum-half Chris Honeywell took the tap and popped the ball up for No.8 Dylan Poyser who dived low under the tackle to score Tigers first points, the conversion was missed 5 – 7. The game moved through a number of phases with both sides playing rugby at a pace that was both entertaining and impressive. The breakthrough came and it was Doncaster who took full advantage. From a line-out their winger went round the outside and breaking a few loose tackles he scored a try which they converted, 5 - 14. Again Tigers took the game to Doncaster and again Doncaster showed what a good side they are especially in defence. Twice Tigers had line-out possession 5m out and on both attempts they were stopped short of the line. The final score of the game came from strong counter rucking by Doncaster who were able to run the ball in between the posts and they converted the kick, 5 – 21. This was a great game which was played with a lot of passion by both sides; it was good to see both teams acknowledging the fact at the end of the game with handshakes and team cheers.

'B' Team game
Up stepped the 'B' team. Again off the back of a great display against Derby the previous week the players were quick into the fray against Doncaster who kept 5 of their 'A' Team players on the pitch! This was having an early impact on both the Tigers attempt to settle and the score line and it was not long before Doncaster racked up two tries, converting one of them, 0 – 12. Tigers had to soak up a lot of pressure and work well together to smoother any attempts by Doncaster to go around the outside. Scrum-half for this game, Afzar put in a number of penetrating runs and supported by forwards George Altman and Drubo gave Doncaster’s defence a few worrying moments. Doncaster were having most of the possession and tried to bring their winger into the game at every opportunity, on one occasion as he seem to have the space and grass in front of him to break out, a bone crushing tackle from flanker Patrick Selkirk sent him and the ball crashing into touch. Tigers were being forced back and back and again Doncaster put the ball through the hands of their 'A' team players who secured another two tries in quick succession, the first half finished 0 – 20 to Doncaster. Tigers did some reshuffling Brown, Duffy and Hawkins being brought on. However, Doncaster’s every present fly-half managed to find a gap and run in Doncaster’s 5 try, 0 – 25. Tigers needed a break and this came when Brown picked up from the back of the scrum and support by forward Niall Hunt who ran onto the ball got the first points on the board for Tigers, Hawkins converted, 7 – 25. Doncaster came straight back and moved the ball wide again and put more points on the board for their team, 7 - 32. Down but not out, Tigers rallied and started to enjoy more of the possession. When they were under pressure at the break down the forwards were quick into the fray Chris Taylor working hard so that Duffy could move the ball quickly from the contact area. This paid off when Marcus Garcia scored a well deserved try which was converted by Hawkins, 14 – 32. As the game moved through the phases Tigers were matching Doncaster on every occasion, winger Dan Hodkin full-back Christy McCrory being tested but stepping up to the plate each time. The backs were now seeing more of the ball and centre Tom Honeywell was exploiting gaps in the Doncaster line. Totally against the run of play Doncaster scored a converted try between the posts, 14 - 39. With a mountain to climb Tigers were not phased, quick to take the game to Doncaster, they were rewarded when a move started by Duffy saw a well weighted pass by Honeywell bring centre Mike Lee into the game who ran hard to score for Tigers, Duffy converted, 21 - 39. Tigers were now playing flowing rugby and continued to push Doncaster back. Garcia collected a high ball from a desperate clearance and his direct running brought Hawkins into play who clinched the last points of the game, 28 - 39. Another great game, both sides were a credit to their clubs.

It’s good to see all the boys enjoying their rugby and playing full games! With still two more tough games ahead of them before the end of the season they all need to remain focussed and up for the challenge. Well done today!

'A' Team Tries: Dylan Poyser (1)
'B' Team Tries: Niall Hunt (1), Marcus Garcia (1), Mike Lee (1), Charlie Hawkins (1)
Conversion: Charlie Hawkins (3), Joe Duffy (1)
Reports by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 12, Won: 5, Drew: 1, Lost: 6, For: 314, Against:213
‘B Side’ - Played: 2, Won: 0, Drew:1, Lost: 1, For: 38, Against: 49

 

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25/03/10 Tigers U14’s Travel to Derby with ‘A’ and ‘B’ Teams for the First Time
Derby ‘A’ 47 - Sheffield Tigers ‘A’ 17           (Match Date: 14/03/10)
Derby ‘B’ 10 - Sheffield Tigers ‘B’ 10

Tigers travelled to Derby on a glorious morning for playing rugby. For the first time this season Tigers were able to field an ‘A’ and a ‘B’ team to face a Derby squad, who had a reputation for being very well organised and difficult to beat.

‘A’ Team game

U14’s ‘A’ - Controlled and aggressive.  © S Duffy 2010

A well placed high ball from the kick-off started what was to turn out to be a great game. Derby gathered the ball and were very keen to take the game to the waiting Tigers players. Derby were very well organised and keep possession through a number of well practiced training ground moves which saw them take the ball deep into Tigers territory. This paid off within five minutes when from a ruck, too many players got drawn into the breakdown, Derby quickly exploited the space wide and with the pace of the backs created a 3 on 1 and ran in the first try of the game, they converted the kick 7 – 0. From the restart Tigers made sure that Derby didn’t have the opportunity this time to regroup and it was the forwards working hard to contest the ball and spoiling most of Derby’s counter-attacks. Tigers began to get the upper hand and the game was now being played in the Derby half of the pitch. Their determined defence was the only thing stopping Tigers from running in their first try. The continued possession eventually caused Derby to concede a penalty, fly-half Joe Duffy secured a line-out from the very well placed kick. The platform was set and having won the line-out Captain Guy Borrowdale set up the drive, the ball was popped to flanker Chris Pond who smashed over the line to get Tigers on the score board, the conversion being missed 7 – 5. The only downside was that in the drive Borrowdale sustained a neck injury and had to leave the field of play. Possession changed hands a number of times but again Derby found space on the flanks and their very speedy centre ran in his second try of the game again. Moving the score on to 12 - 5. Tigers were very much still in the game and they now enjoyed a long spell of possession, the forwards and the backs linking well and very much on top of the opposition. However, totally against the run of play a spilled ball was quickly gathered up by Derby who ran the ball in straight under the posts and completing the conversion, 17 – 5. Tigers did not back down and as before the game was being played in Derby’s half of the field, Taking the initiative and slightly changing tactics full-back Charlie Hawkins narrowly missed a penalty that was award 30m out in front of the posts. Two further injuries were incurred in what was turning out to be a physical game centre Oscar Dyson and flanker Niall Hunt both sustaining injuries Dyson’s game was over, Hunt did return. From quick ball scrum half Chris Honeywell linked up with Duffy who’s penetrating run started a move which saw No8 Liam Brown and Hawkins produce some smart interplay which deceived the opposition and enabled front-row James Mills to carry the ball over to score a much deserved Tigers try. The first half finished 17 – 10. Fired up by their performance in the first half, Tigers again had all the possession and again Derby were continually penalised. Again precise kicking from Duffy pushed Derby back, Tigers were now playing with much confidence and link play in the backs saw centre Will Hardy penetrate deep into the opposition 22m starting 7 phases of Tigers possession, then the ball was moved to winger Samir Afzar who executing an impressive show and go drew 3 defenders and put in forward Drubo who scored out wide, Duffy converting the kick 17 - 17. A number of certain tries were only denied by some excellent Derby defence. Derby never looked a beaten side and the tide of the game changed in their favour. With tiredness setting in and a lack of match fitness a key factor, Derby exploited the gaps which were now showing in the Tiger's defence and they managed to run in a further 4 tries to end the game at 47 – 17. All credit to Derby who played good rugby throughout the game. However, Tigers did have long periods of possession and worked hard as a team to secure their points.
 
‘B’ Team game

U14’s ‘B’ - Quick Tap & go.  © S Duffy 2010

It was long awaited but the U14's were able to field a ‘B’ team for the first time this season, and what a corker of a match it turned out to be! Derby fielded a “huge” team of players who were as well drilled and organised as their “A” team. This was apparent from the kick-off as they applied all the pressure and kept possession for long spells in the Tigers 22m. Some excellent defending on the try line by forwards George Altman and Marcus Garcia stopped a certain early Derby try. The boys soon found their rhythm and they were beginning to play with more cohesion and were winning their fair share of breakdowns, scrums and line-outs. From a scrum quick ball saw centre Tom Honeywell link up with speedy winger Ben Broomhead whose determined run saw him find the gap and race over for the first try of the game, 5 – 0 to Tigers. The battle was hoting up and the forwards were winning some great scrums against a physical bigger pack. From one such scrum the ball was picked up by Niall Hunt and fed to centre Honeywell who was instrumental in creating space and allowing other players to run off him. As a result Tigers were creating all sorts of problems for Derby in their own 22m. Derby were able to turn over possession after a sustained Tigers drive, but their high swirling kick was gathered beautifully by Winger Josh Russell who started the move that saw the forwards carry the ball forward, stopped at the line some hard shoving and support by forward Chris Taylor saw Altman crash over for Tigers 2nd try, 10 – 0. Derby were down but not out and they came back at Tigers with more determination and desire to score. Tigers were on the back foot now and it was only an excellent last ditched tackle by Broomhead that averted a certain try by their winger. Derby kept on coming and eventually they managed to work an opening and score their first points right on half-time, 10 – 5. If the first half was anything to go by the second was going to equally as entertaining! So it turned out to be, because of the size of the Derby squad they were able to bring on some even “bigger” players. The impact was immediate and Tigers found themselves defending for the next ten minutes. The forwards clawed themselves back into the game winning possession, allowing the backs the ball who were moving the ball with pace and causing their opposite numbers endless problems. Again Tigers were getting most of the possession, Forwards Brown and Altman were seeing lots of the ball and making forays into the oppositions 22m with other players in close support. As the game entered the final five minutes, Derby’s fitness began to tell and they were now winning the ball at the breakdowns and slowly gaining the upper hand. In one clash close to the Tigers try line forward Taylor became a one man wall and ripped the ball from a charging player as he made for the line. However, from the resulting ruck Derby regained possession which allowed them to run through to score the equalising try right at the end of the game, 10 - 10. The boys played well as a team and matched Derby in every department.

It was really great to see so many enjoy and play what was for many their first full game.

‘A’ Team Tries: Chris Pond (1), James Mills (1) Drubo (1),
Conversion: Joe Duffy (1)
‘B’ Team Tries: George Altman (1), Ben Broomhead (1)
Reports by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 11, Won: 5, Drew: 1, Lost: 5, For: 309, Against:192
‘B Side’ - Played: 1, Won: 0, Drew:1, Lost: 0, For: 10, Against: 10

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19/02/10 Tigers U14’s in Valentine’s Day Clash with Sandal
Sandal 25 - Sheffield Tigers 7           (Match Date: 14/02/10)

There was going to be nothing sweet about this Valentine’s Day clash with the team that knocked out Tigers U14’s in the cup way back in November!
With the half term holidays upon us the U14’s took a much reduced squad for the return match with Sandal. On arrival it became apparent that Sandal did not have a full team and therefore, to ensure that the fixture went ahead it was agreed that Tigers would “loan” players on a rotation basis throughout the game!

U14 - Tigers Team Spirit.  © O Dyson 2009

Sandal may have been short of players but straight from the kick-off it was apparent that they were not short of aggression and determination as their forwards crashed into the Tigers ball carrier, creating turnover ball straight away! Was the writing on the wall? Tigers fought very hard to stem the flow as Sandal gained the upper hand through a number of well organised phases of play. Their forwards and backs moving the ball around freely as Tigers forwards were slow to the breakdowns and, entering the contact area in ones and twos, they were making it easy for their opposite numbers to keep possession. The first ten minutes saw Sandal push Tigers back to their own goal line and it was only a matter of time before they breached the Tigers defence. A certain Sandal try was averted twelve minutes into the game when an excellent two man tackle by forwards Drubo and Selkirk stopped the Sandal ball carrier from grounding the ball. Under pressure again, fly-half Duffy cleared from his own goal line to find touch on the half-way line. However, this did not stop the Sandal attacking machine and they moved the ball through a number of phases and back into the Tigers 22m and then moved the ball to the outside and scored in the corner, but missed the conversion to take a 5 - 0 lead after twenty minutes. The game ebbed and flowed from the restart, centre Daly showing his skill, as he dummied twice to send the Sandal defence the wrong way allowing Tigers to move the ball deep into the oppositions territory, only for the move to break down in the contact as Tigers failed to ruck successfully. Sandal exploited every opportunity that was presented to them and they moved the ball very quickly up field and scored again through winger Samir. The irony of the try scorer not being lost on the players, Samir was an on loan player!! Tigers 10 – 0, down after twentyfive minutes. As the game moved into the 2nd quarter a dropped ball from the kick off allowed Sandal to capitalise and score again to extend the lead to 15 – 0. Tigers looked lethargic and were lacking a cohesive front, the contest at the break down being a particular weakness. Sandal continued to pile on the pressure, Tigers continued to play on the back foot. However, what they were lacking in attack they made up for in defence and were still in with a shout. A great last ditched defence by forwards Poyser, Owen-Creaser and full-back Hawkins averted a certain Sandal try. A relentless Sandal turned a Tigers scrum 10m out and forced their 4th try of the game the only saving grace was that they failed to convert for the 4th time to go into the break 20 – 0 up.
The half time “chat” focussed on what and why things had gone wrong, but more importantly that the players were capable of much more. With the restart, something seemed to click! Although Sandal were very much still in the game Tigers were enjoying more of the possession. A number of Tigers phases were instigated from deep in their own 22m, on one occasion ful-back Hawkins picked up a kick and ran the ball back 20m, and after a number of successful rucks and attacks, it was only a last ditched kick for touch from Sandal which stopped Tigers from securing their first points. Again Tigers put the pressure on and a number powerful runs from front-row forward Drubo ensured that Tigers got within striking distance of the opponents try line. But the well organised Sandal team managed to turn defence into attack and after forcing an error they moved the ball quickly from their scrum and catching Tigers unaware, moved down the blind side to score again 25 – 0, the kick again not being converted. Tigers forwards battled hard to get back into the game and were able to

U14 - Soaking up the pressure.  © O Dyson 2009

secure more of the ball. Scrum-half Honeywell was moving the ball well to link with the backs who we now seeing more of the ball and running freely, forcing Sandal to work hard in the tackle. The sustained pressure paid off when flanker Pond supported by Owen–Creaser carried the ball almost to the try line. But stopped by Sandal, strong individual counter rucking by Drubo allowed centre Oliver Rasch to pick up the ball and crash over the line. Duffy converted for 25 - 7. Although Tigers were now more in the game, Sandal were by no means out of it! Tigers pushed and pushed but were thwarted by a very determined Sandal who were still dangerous on the break. As the game moved into the final minutes both teams had a try disallowed and the game ended with Sandal the deserved winners.

It was a very slow start for the boys and with opposition like Sandal they will always get punished!
Lessons from this game for all the squad are:-
Everyone needs to be focused – this starts with the warm up.
Securing ball at the break down requires aggression and a team effort.
Finally it is important to get out of the starting blocks straight away and take the game to the opposition whoever they are!

Tries: Oliver Rasch (1),
Conversion: Joe Duffy (1)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 10, Won: 5, Drew: 1, Lost: 4, For: 292, Against:145

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14/02/10 Tigers U14’s Lose Out to a Well Organised and Tough Ionians Team
Hull Ionians 19 - Sheffield Tigers 7           (Match Date: 07/02/10)

A squad of 24 players made the long journey to Hull for their first encounter with Hull Ionians. On the back of a victory over Sheffield two weeks earlier the boys were keen to get into the fray. Conditions were ideal and this promised to be a game that would entertain!

U14 - On the break.  © M Hawkins 2010

Hull made their intentions very clear from the kick off, crashing into the Tigers ball carrier and turning over possession and forcing the Tigers onto the back foot. It soon became apparent that Ionians were a well organised and dangerous team. The first five minutes saw a number of handling errors by Tigers with the resultant scrums being won by the opposition who quickly moved the ball to their backs and it was only some last ditched tackling by Elliott Dillon and Oliver Rasch against their speedy winger that stopped Ionians getting on the score sheet so early in the game. However, Ionians pressure was relentless and this was evident in both the line-out and scrum as Tigers lost their own throw/put ins. After ten minutes of play, from a strong drive in the scrum Ionians moved the ball quickly wide and after some poor defensive tackling their winger scored in the corner, they failed to convert. Tigers still had not found their rhythm and again found themselves second best at most of the breakdowns. Tigers did manage to secure some possession and some determined runs from Liam Brown and Owen Creaser-Smith penetrated the Ionians 22m. Moving the ball wide winger Michael Lee dashed for the line only to be brought to an abrupt halt by a high tackle which went unpunished and Ionians cleared the danger. The next five minutes saw Tigers pile on the pressure but unfortunately each attack ended with a penalty conceded. Ionians exploited this and from one such penalty awarded deep in their own half, they moved the ball wide and their talented full-back went round the outside to score. This time they converted to take the score to 12 – 0 after twenty minutes. The boys knew they had to up the ante and with some strong words of encouragement from Captain Guy Borrowdale, Tigers charged into the fray and camped themselves in the Ionians 22m, demonstrating that they were capable of more. Strong forward play saw Creaser-Smith supported by Patrick Selkirk pick up and drive close to the try line only to be stopped by a very good defence. Winning a line-out Tigers quickly moved the ball down the backs only to see Lee drop the ball as he went to ground it. Tigers tried and tried but they were up against good opposition, finishing the half bruised and battered but not down.
Because of the calibre of the opposition only a few changes were made at half-time, hard running and tackling flanker Liam Brown had to be replaced due to injury. Half-time gave Tigers the breathing space they needed to regroup. It was obvious they were not about to give up without a fight. From the kick off the game saw possession change hands a number of times, with both teams competing hard for possession. Ionians were still a threat and they were successful on the counter scoring another converted try to stretch their lead to 19 – 0. A number of changes were made flanker Selkirk returned as scrum-half, Rasch went to full-back, Samir Afzar, Christy McCrory came on as wingers and Matt Hunt replaced Chris Pond at flanker. Tigers still had a lot of fight in them. A grubber kick by fly-half Joe Duffy turned the defence and as he chased down the kick the full-back spilled the ball and, as he went to ground it, missed and Duffy raced in to touchdown. The referee however, had seen an infringement and the try was disallowed. As all around seemed to be losing their heads though sheer frustration at being repeatedly penalised, captain Borrowdale kept his and pulled the team together with some stern words and strong leadership. Tigers had a point to prove and with persistent pressure they were awarded a penalty in the 22m. Quick thinking and determined running saw Borrowdale crash over the try line with a number of hapless defenders hanging on to put Tigers on the score sheet. Centre Charlie Hawkins stepped up to convert to cut the deficit to 19 – 7. Tigers were having the best of it now and the aggression and determination which they seemed to be lacking in the first-half was flooding through the team. Dylan Poyers started a move off the back of the ruck which saw Rasch linking up with Hawkins, who just short of the line popped up a ball to Duffy which just didn’t quite reach and the resultant knock on allowed Ionians to clear their lines. And so the game finished. Credit to both sets of players, they all shook hands and clapped and cheered each other through the tunnel.
Opposition like Ionians is what the U14’s need more of. Defeat is never easy to take and the boys were very frustrated by the number of decisions which went against them. However, they kept their discipline, their composure and played right up to the final whistle! We are very proud of their performance today and so should they be! Well done!

Tries: Guy Borrowdale (1)
Conversions: Charlie Hawkins (1)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 9, Won: 5, Drew: 1, Lost: 3, For: 285, Against:120

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27/01/10 Tigers U14’s on the prowl again as they do the double over their neighbours at Sheffield Abbeydale with an impressive display of rugby
Sheffield 0 - Sheffield Tigers 49            (Match Date: 24/01/10)

42 days had past without a rugby ball in sight for the under U14’s. The Christmas break and the wonderful snow!!! had put a stop to all fixtures and training sessions. So it was no surprise when the boys turned up on Sunday morning chomping at the bit to get stuck into their local rivals!
With a squad of 30 players Tigers were able to field two equal teams for each half of the game. The conditions were fine but the pitch resembled a beach and this was going to test both teams in terms of stamina. From Sheffield's kick-off Tigers were quickly pinned in their own 22m. From the start it looked as if lack of matches was going to be Tigers undoing as Sheffield steamed into the breakdown eager to draw first blood. Tigers quickly found their feet and started to push Sheffield back. The game being fought out in the centre of the

U14 - Contest at the breakdown.  © M Hawkins 2010

pitch. Then it clicked! The pack winning more ball in the ruck and scrum-half Chris Honeywell moving the ball quickly to the backs where Joe Duffy and Rob Daly linked up well to run the ball into the opponents half on a number of occasions. Tigers were hungry!! Honeywell was quick to pick up the ball and after making a strong run was quickly supported by the forwards as he took the contact. Captain Guy Borrowdale emerged from the melee and with one of his trade make powerful runs ran the ball in from 20m out in the tenth minute. The conversion was missed but Tigers had shown their intent. From the kick-off Tigers threatened again and after securing the ball in the ruck Honeywell was quick to exploit a gap in the defence and charged through supported by James Milles who took the ball and crashed into a wall of defenders, popping up the ball to a close supporting Borrowdale who for a second-row forward showed a speed that is normally associated with a back and he went over for his second try of the match to give Tigers a 10 – 0 lead. The confidence was up and there were some good phases which linked the forwards and backs. Notably Chris Pond was striking terror into the defenders with a number of powerful incisive runs. This paid off when Ponds direct running cut into the Sheffield 22m, as he was tackled he popped the ball up to new boy winger Michael Lee who ran straight until he was swamped by a sea of blue and white shirts – but he emerged ball in two hands, head down and legs pumping like mad – TRY, 15 - 0. Who said the boys had not played for 42 days? Pond was on the rampage again, he passed the ball to full-back Connors Williams who was up in support and seeing the chalk he made a determined run for the line, he was tackled to the floor but played a fantastic ball off the floor with a well timed pass to Mills who chalked up a 4th try for Tigers. The game was now going the visitors way. With the first half coming to an end, a cleverly taken quick penalty tap 30m out saw Mills and Borrowdale combining well with Borrowdale increasing his tally to 3 tries and Tigers finishing the half with a commanding 25 – 0 lead.
Tigers fielded a completely different team for the second half. Could they match the first half performance and score? Competition is always a good motivator; the team were quickly into the fray.  Sheffield were still very much in the fight and the game took time to settle as both teams slogged it out for possession. Newcomer Samir Afzal playing at scrum-half was quick to show his ability and was moving the ball nicely to the backs and after a couple of phases, outside centre Tom Honeywell was able to run the ball into the corner. The conversion was missed but the score had now crept up to 30 – 0. The team were now enjoying themselves and keen to impress and when Tigers were awarded a penalty 30m out, Charlie Hawkins eager to get on the score sheet placed the ball and hit the sweet spot only to see the ball drift slightly wide of the posts. It was really good to see a variety of decisions being called on the pitch which always left Sheffield guessing and on the back foot. The forwards were again making headway Liam Brown popping up on a number of occasions with the ball, demonstrating what a powerful ball carrier he is. The inevitable seem obvious when flanker Nail Hunt smashed over the line but some last ditched defending saw the ball knocked out of his hand as he attempted to ground it. But it was not long before the pressure was piled on again, forward Dylan Poyers smashed over the line right between the posts, Hawkins stepped up to convert for 37 – 0. For Sheffield it was damage limitation, for Tigers it was no mercy! And as the game moved into the last ten minutes two further tries added to the home side misery as Afzal scored both from the back of the rucks, with Hawkins converting one of them. (Oh! Did I tell you Samir had just joined that morning from Sheffield Abbeydale!!!!!) The game ended Sheffield 0 - Tigers 49 and 2 – 0 in the series to Tigers. Both teams finished the morning with lots of handshakes and smiles – the Monday morning school bragging rights definitely belonged to the Tigers boys
The team continues to grow in both confidence and ability there were some good individual performances but just as important there was a very good squad performance. Well done boys!

Tries: Guy Borrowdale (3), Samir Afzal (2), Mike Lee (1), James Mills (1),
         Tom Honeywell (1), Dylan Poyers (1)
Conversions: Charlie Hawkins (2)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 8, Won: 5, Drew: 1, Lost: 2, For: 278, Against:101

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14/12/09 U14’s display of grit, determination and desire to win pays off at Matlock
Matlock 10 - Sheffield Tigers 10           (Match Date: 13/12/09)

26 players from the U14’s travelled to Matlock for a fixture which promised to be a cracker. Tigers had not beaten Matlock in any previous encounters and their reputation preceded them. However, the changing room atmosphere of Tigers gave the feeling, that to them reputation counted for nothing? The U14’s were really up for this one!
On a fine day, but playing on a pitch which resembled a ploughed field, Tigers kicked deep into Matlock half. The battle had begun. Tigers had a bright start and were working hard as a team to keep possession. When Tigers applied the pressure they were met with an equally determined Matlock defence. Any loose ball was quickly snapped up by Matlock and their fly-half put in a display of clever tactical kicking to take the pressure off his team. Matlock always looked dangerous on the break and at times their runners were finding gaps in a Tigers defence, which was finding the ground very heavy going. Matlock pressure paid off when in the fifteenth

U14 - Apply the pressure.  © B Ayers 2009

minute their winger latched onto a loose ball and after breaking a number of tackles managed to run in under the posts. They missed the conversion. From the restart and led by Captain Liam Brown, the forwards were working hard at the break down and the writing was on the wall as flanker Chris Ponds and No.8 Dylan Poyser on numerous occasions smashed through the Matlock defence with some powerful individual runs. The pressure finally paid off when Poyser, picked up of the back of a Tigers scrum, ran hard into the Matlock 22m then, off loading to Charlie Hawkins on his shoulder who gave a great ball to Ponds who running from deep, smashed over the try line. Tigers missed the conversion. The first half finished 5 - 5. 
With such a big squad and the lack of match play over the past few weeks, the second half began with Tigers putting on 11 different players from the restart!  Matlock were quick to exploit this reshuffle and for a time Tigers found themselves hard pressed. Strong leadership from Brown and good work from scrum-half Chris Honeywell ensured that the forwards and backs gelled. Unfortunately, against the run of play, Matlock score in the thirtieth minute - their-fly half failed to convert the kick. Slowly but gradually, Tigers started to get the upper hand and with replacement scrum-half Christy McCrory, linking the backs and forwards well, Tigers started to go for the jugular. The only response from Matlock was a kicking game and as their fly-half tried to exploit Tigers blind side, new player, winger Michael Lee proved what a prospect he is going to be, as he collected most of the kicks and ran the ball back into Matlock territory. The last five minutes were very tense; Tigers were camped in Matlock’s 22m and were given penalty after penalty from numerous Matlock infringements. Kicking for 3 points was not an option, the break through came with the last play of the game, when from the tap Hawkins crashed over the try line from 10m out. The final kick drifted wide and the game ended a respectable 10 - 10.
This was a good display by the boys individually but more importantly it was an excellent squad performance. They entertained, showed how grit, determination and team work gets results. Well done!

Tries: Chris Pond (1), Charlie Hawkins (1)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 7, Won: 4, Drew: 1, Lost: 2, For: 229, Against:101
 

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23/11/09 U14’s fight like “Tigers” right to the end in 2nd round Yorkshire Cup Tie
Sandal 24 - Sheffield Tigers 8           (Match Date: 22/11/09)

The U14’s welcomed a strong Sandal squad to Dore Moor to play this long awaited cup fixture. Playing on the first team pitch the typical November weather was ever present; both teams were going to have to battle the

U14 - Tigers Team Spirit.  © O Dyson 2009

wet and windy conditions as well as each other!
Right from the start both teams were quick into the fray. Possession changing sides a number of times as both teams worked hard to retain the ball in the wet and greasy conditions. As the game progress the Sandal forwards were getting the better of the Tigers forwards in both the scrums and at the breakdown. The signs were ominous as Sandal moved the ball down the blind side a number of times to exploit weaknesses in the Tigers line. This finally paid off from the scrum when they moved the ball quickly down the blindside from 20m out, breaking a number of tackles. Sandal scored the first points of the game right in the corner. Their kicker failed to convert the difficult kick. Tigers continued to battle for the ball but Sandal were more organised and were reacting much quicker to both the breakdown and, when Tigers were in possession, they were quick to put our players under pressure. Tigers were being forced back and finally gave away a penalty 30m out, Sandal took a quick tap and as Tigers were reorganising, broke through a disorganised defence and scored between the posts on the fifteen minute mark. This time their kicker was successful and converted - the score now being 12 – 0 to Sandal. Tigers were finding it difficult to impose themselves on the game and although they had some possession, were finding it difficult to make an impact against a strong Sandal defence. From a Tigers scrum, Sandal won the ball against the head and again, moving the ball quickly, scored between the posts and converted to put more pressure on the home side. Tigers were going to have to dig deep to stop the Sandal tidal wave, with the score at 19 – 0 and ten minutes of the first half still to play. There were signs that Tigers were getting their act together, they were slowing creeping back into the game and played a number of successful phases in the Sandal 22m. Sandal were still breaking up the Tigers attacks and on a number of occasions moved the ball wide to their winger. Quick thinking and some strong tackling by Oliver Rashid prevented them breaking out of their own half. Tiger’s first points came from a penalty because of pushing in the line-out. From 30m out and a tight angle, Charlie Hawkins smashed the ball between the posts to give Tigers a much need boost. Tigers were finishing the first half looking much more organised and playing deep in the Sandal half with the score at 19 - 3 down.
With the restart, the weather changed for the better and so did Tigers performance. The players were showing belief in their own ability and were holding their own in the scrum. Now, Sandal were not having it all their own way. Chris Pond was quick to put their fly-half under pressure and as he recovered the ball was quickly supported by the rest of the forwards to drive deep into Sandals 22m over a number of phases. The opposition defended well and managed to turn over the ball their clearance kick, reaching full back Charlie Hawkins who returned with a fantastic cross field kick securing a lineout 5m from the try line. A better organised Tigers won the line-out, driving from 5m out, with a very controlled maul and Drubo Tarafdar went over to score a very much deserved try. Joe Duffy just failed to convert from a tight angle. Tigers were now well and truly making a game of it. At every opportunity captain Guy Borrowdale called the team together making sure that they all remained focused with some positive words of encouragement - they were definitely playing more as a team now. This paid off as Sandal started to apply the pressure again in the Tigers 22m. Tigers were defending with everything they had but Sandal burst through and looked certain of scoring but Duffy managed to wrap his hand under the ball carriers hand and with a well sighted referee a 5m scrum was awarded instead of the try. T

U14 - Soaking up the pressure.  © O Dyson 2009

he game was now being played 5m from Tigers try line but they were defending with every ounce of strength they had. Unfortunately Sandal’s pressure paid off, when a poor clearance kick was picked up and they were able to move the ball away from the contact area and score in the corner. The angle made it difficult for their kicker to convert. With a score line of 22 – 8 to the visitors, Tigers were going to have to pull out all the punches to stay in the game. Straight from the restart it was obvious that Tigers were not going to concede defeat. Borrowdale secured the ball and smashed into the opposition and with his forwards close in support it was Tigers who were now in the ascendancy. Scum-half Chris Honeywell was working well at the back of the scrum and rucks and he was moving the ball quickly and accurately to the backs. This started a period in the game which saw Tigers camped in Sandals 22m for a solid twenty minutes. Tiger’s backs were moving the ball effectively down the line with Will Hardy and Ben Broomhead linking up well to take the ball 10m from the try line. Strong defence slowed them up, but quick support by Pat Selkirk and Chris Pond again secured the ball and Tigers were tantalisingly close to the try line only to be thwarted yet again. Again and again Tigers came at Sandal, forwards and backs linking up well. Connor Williams smashed into contact and then spun out of the tackle to set up a ruck 5m out. Honeywell was quick to get his hands on the ball popping a pass to Elliot Dillon who rushed to the line as he went to ground it was only the post that stopped him from getting into a position to place the ball over the line. With the game drawing to an end, such a strong and disciplined Sandal defence were not going to let Tigers in. Clearing their lines and pushing Tigers back into their own half, the game came to end.
From a spectators point of view this was a very enjoyable match to watch with both teams showing a high levels of skill, good team work and team spirit. From Tigers point of view, the team have a lot to be proud of. Under relentless first half pressure they stayed focussed, worked hard for each other and for much of the second half dominated possession.
The boys can be proud of themselves. Well done!

Tries: Drubo Tarafdar (1),
Penalties: Charlie Hawkins (1)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 6, Won: 4, Drew: 0, Lost: 2, For: 219, Against: 91

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23/11/09 Tigers U14’s take to the field against a well drilled Huddersfield squad
Huddersfield 34 - Sheffield Tigers 7   (Match Date: 15/11/09)

In an unscheduled fixture, Tigers U14’s took to the field against a well drilled Huddersfield squad and came up against their toughest opposition so far this season. The score line perhaps does not tell the full story.... Tigers were going to use this match as a friendly to prepare the players for their forthcoming cup match against Sandal (22-11-09 at Dore Moor). Taking a 27 man squad the selection and tactics had been set for the match. However, Huddersfield requested that we play a match of 4 quarters to accommodate all of their squad! Tigers duly complied! As a result the score perhaps does not reflect how the squad performed overall.

1st Quarter: Huddersfield 3 - Sheffield Tigers 0
 The first quarter saw both teams having equal possession and testing each other out. Each time Tigers found a gap Huddersfield were quick to react to break up the move. Likewise, Tigers found themselves also having to

U14 - Kick and the chase is on.  © M Hawkins 2009

tackle hard and close down the space in front of them to ensure that Huddersfield didn’t break the gain line. A key part of Tigers offence play was accurate kicking from the backs, that resulted in Huddersfield being turned and having to chase back to secure the ball, with the Tigers players hot on their heels.  A cross field kick from Will Hardy found touch in Huddersfield 22m. Tigers secured the ball and pushed for the line - only a determined and strong defence from Huddersfield prevented Tigers from scoring. The game ebbed and flowed but pressure from the forwards forced the error from Huddersfield and Tigers were awarded a scrum, 15m out. Chris Honeywell produced a quick ball to fly-half Joe Duffy who carried the ball back into contact and the forwards quickly secured the ruck. From this, captain Guy Borrowdale pick up the ball and with a strong determined run, steamed towards the try line, only to have the ball knocked out of his hands 2m from the line. With the 1st quarter drawing to an end Huddersfield were awarded a penalty for a very dubious high tackle decision from the referee. They took their chance well and ended the match 3 – 0 up.

2nd Quarter: Huddersfield 24 - Sheffield Tigers 0
Tigers reshuffled the side and fielded a completely different team. The same cannot be said for Huddersfield!  Straight from the start Huddersfield applied the pressure and dominated possession in the Tigers 22m. A kick to the corner was picked up by Tigers but the resulting clearance kick went straight to the on rushing Huddersfield team, who swiftly moved the ball wide and scored in the corner, the kick not being converted. Tigers regained their composure and worked the ball into Huddersfield’s half, but the opposition were well organised and they easily turned over the ball. Only a last ditched tackle by Ben Broomhead, 10m out, stopped Huddersfield adding to their score. Huddersfield continued to apply the pressure and from a 10m scrum ran in their 2nd try of the quarter, but again failed to convert. Tigers continued to battle hard but the reshuffled team had no time to settle and Huddersfield were again driving hard into Tigers territory. Again securing a scrum from a handling error, they broke down the blind side catching Tigers off guard and added a converted try to their total. Huddersfield ran in a 4th try and converted to complete the dominance of this quarter.

3rd Quarter: Huddersfield 7 - Sheffield Tigers 7

U14 - A powerful controlled scrum.  © M Hawkins 2009

Trying to match the replacement strategies of the opposition, a stronger combination of Tigers players took to the field in this quarter. Straight away it was obvious that Tigers could match Huddersfield player for player. The game took on an equal contest with both teams battling it out around the centre of the pitch. Good passages of link play between the forwards and backs saw centre Will Hardy break into the 22m before being brought down by a strong defence. Huddersfield turned over the ball and kicked deep to relieve the pressure. Again the game saw both teams competing for possession and Huddersfield were first to break the deadlock with some controlled rucking. They were able to move the ball wide and went around a stretched Tigers defence. They converted their try. Tigers were not phased by this and a fabulous cross field kick by Hardy bounced into touch 5m from the opposition try line. Tigers won the line-out and moved the ball to the centre of the pitch. Chris Pond picked up from the back of the ruck ran in to score from 5m out. Full back Charlie Hawkins converted to level the scores. The quarter ended in a draw.

4th Quarter: Huddersfield 0 - Sheffield Tigers 0
With next weeks cup match in mind Tigers tried to field the team that would be starting in next weeks cup match. The team took the game straight to the opposition. From a penalty kick Tigers played deep in Huddersfield half. Going through a number of winning line-outs, rucks and scrum plays, Tigers were foiled by a well organised and determined Huddersfield defence. The game finished with the team encamped in Huddersfield’s 22m.

The squad competed well and showed that they are a force to be reckoned with!

Tries: Chris Pond (1),
Conversions: Charlie Hawkins (1)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 5, Won: 4, Drew: 0, Lost: 1, For: 211, Against: 67

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04/11/09 Five Tigers U14’s Represent South Yorkshire
(Tournament Date: 01/11/09)

QEGS, Wakefield, was the venue for the first of two Yorkshire Inter District tournaments to be held before Christmas, as part of the selection process for the Yorkshire Squad. The Tigers U14 Squad proudly had five players representing a 22 man South Yorkshire Squad, Guy Borrowdale (2nd row forward), James Mills (front-row forward), Patrick Selkirk (flanker),

U14 - Tigers South Yorkshire representative players.  © Steve Duffy 2009

Joe Duffy (fly-half) and Will Hardy (full-back/inside centre).  The tournament involved all six county teams. The South Yorkshire team played two 30 minute matches, on this occasion against West Yorkshire and East Yorkshire. The conditions were appalling, strong winds and torrential rain!!!! However, the Tigers players showed their skill and tenacity and contributed significantly in both matches. South Yorkshire beat West Yorkshire 10 – 5 in the first encounter. The game against East Yorkshire was a very hard fought match but again South Yorkshire came out as the victors securing a 12 – 10 win. Mills scoring a try to equal the scores and with Duffy completing the conversion to win the match with the last kick of the game.
Well done to the lads - they were great ambassadors for their club and an asset to the South Yorkshire squad.
We wish them all the best at the next IDT (6th December) Who knows, Yorkshire colours may beckon for some!
Report by: Steve Duffy
Note: U14’s away to Derby on 01/11/09 was cancelled due to a flooded pitch.

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29/10/09 Tigers U14s Pile on the Points at Wet & Windy Cleckheaton
Cleckheaton 5 - Sheffield Tigers 53    (Match Date: 25/10/09)

Winter had certainly arrived as the U14 squad travelled to Cleckheaton for a friendly fixture. Coming off the back of a third consecutive win, they were able to take all available squad players for this clash (24 players in total). Conditions were sure to test both teams with a very strong wind blowing sheets of rain across the pitch. Handling was also going to be an issue in the wet greasy conditions. From the kick-off Tigers were up for the challenge securing the ball and taking the ball deep into the oppositions half but the wet conditions were making the final execution of many moves difficult, as both sets of players spilled the ball. However, Tigers continued to put the pressure on, with the Tigers pack fast becoming

U14 - The pack prepare to scrum.  © Steve Duffy 2009

the dominate force, winning both their own scrums as well as a significant number of the Cleckheaton’s scrums. The break through came with a strike against the head from a powerful Tigers scrummage - two phases of play then saw second-row forward Guy Borrowdale (Captain) powering through a wall of Cleckheaton players to get Tigers off the mark with an uncoverted try. Conditions were continuing to be a factor for both teams but Tigers were edging ahead with a greater share of the possession. The backs were also starting to make an impact, an excellent diagonal grubber kick from Will Hardy found touch 10m from Cleckheaton’s try line. A poor feed and Tigers were fast to react. Quick ball to the backs saw outside centre Tom Honeywell run hard for the line and as two defenders converged to make the tackle, Honeywell drove low under the posts to score Tigers second try, with Joe Duffy converting. Cleckheaton were still very much involved and continued to compete with Tigers at the breakdown and in open play. Tigers again pushed for the line but Cleckheaton were determined to hold out, turning over the ball 2m from their line and counterattacking hard down the centre of the pitch. Duffy, making a last ditched tackle drove the ball carrier into touch on Tigers 22m line. Cleckheaton were slowly creeping back into the game. Handling mistakes by Tigers allowed Cleckheaton to turn over the ball and driving for the line, three missed tackles allowed the opposition to score in the corner, their kicker failing to convert. With the end of the half fast approaching and the weather changing for the better, Borrowdale romped over for his second try of the half. The score being a respectable 17 – 5 to Tigers at the halfway mark.
The second half saw a number of changes, a reshuffling of some player’s positions and thankfully improved playing conditions! As in previous games Tigers now had the bit between their teeth and were keen to take the fight to Cleckheaton. Straight from the kick-off, prop James Mills was quick into the fray and with some powerful counter rucking turned over the ball and with a quick ball, the pack moved through a number of phases with the ever present Borrowdale going over under the posts from 2 metres out to score his third try. Fly-half Duffy stepped up to convert and added more misery for the home team. Tigers were now combining well as a team, securing the ball and moving it quickly to the backs to run at the opposition. This sustained pressure paid off again when Borrowdale secured a loose ball and went crashing through a number of tackles running a full 30m down the side of the pitch, then, after evading the final tackle placed the ball down under the posts for his fourth try, and Duffy completing his third conversion of the morning. The team were now playing controlled rugby and were moving the ball around the pitch looking for weaknesses in the Cleckheaton

U14 - Quick ball and another break is on.  © Steve Duffy 2009

defence. Cleckheaton were awarded a number of penalties and took an unaware Tigers by surprise but with some last ditch defence and strong counter rucking, with centre Charlie Hawkins driving the ball carrier off the ball, so allowing winger Oliver Rasch to unleash his blistering pace from 30m out and finish his run between the posts. Again Duffy’s conversion added to the ever increasing score line. Cleckheaton were still putting up a fight but with a depleted squad and injuries on the field, Tigers continued to dominate. Some good interplay between scrum-half Rob Daly and full-back Hardy saw the ball carried deep into the oppositions half with backs and forwards combining in a number of controlled phases down the right side of the pitch before being halted 5m out by a desperate Cleckheaton defence. However, a very quick ball from the ruck allowed Daly to spin the ball out to the backs who moved the ball quickly, stretching the defence and outside centre Connor Williams run in for the try. Shortly after the restart Flanker Elliot Dillon added another 5 points. With the outcome of the game now never in doubt, Tigers started playing a more expansive game, with Hardy’s intelligent cross field kick bouncing into touch in the Cleckheaton twentytwo. From the line-out, Borrowdale popped up to steal the ball and get his fifth try of the match, rounding off a truly impressive captain’s performance. Cleckheaton battled hard to regain some pride and stem the flow. Moving the ball quickly they caught Tigers off guard and having got the ball into the twentytwo, kicked through, turning the Tigers defence. Just as their winger was about to touch the ball down, a last ditched effort and stretched out leg from Duffy ended Cleckheaton’s last throw of the dice. Tigers ended the game with a fabulous break from 30m out by centre Honeywell, only for the ball to slip out in the contact just before the line. From a good turn over ball, a testing kick from Hardy towards the goal line allowed the forwards to gather the ball 5m out but a desperate defence held the ball up on the line, the referee blowing for full-time.
Tigers have made it four wins in a row now – the depth of strength in the squad is there for everyone to see. The boys again showed good handling skills, support play and a desire to take the game to the opposition. A fantastic all-round squad performance. Well done!
Next week will prove to be a very tough challenge with at least five players out on South Yorkshire County duties. The squad play away at Derby who from past experience always field a very strong team. However, our current performance means that Derby will be made to fight hard for every metre of ground!!!

Tries: Guy Borrowdale (5), Tom Honeywell (1), Oliver Rasch (1), Elliot Dillon (1),
           Connor Williams (1)
Conversions: Joe Duffy (4)
Report by: Steve Duffy
Results: Played: 4, Won: 4, Drew: 0, Lost: 0, For: 204, Against: 33

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12/10/09 Tigers U14s Beat Ripon in 1st Round of Yorkshire Cup
Ripon 0 - Sheffield Tigers 39    (Match Date: 04/10/09)

It was an early start for all concerned in this 1st round of the U14s Yorkshire Cup away at Ripon. Conditions were excellent with no wind and lots of sunshine. The added bonus was that the match was played on Ripon’s first team pitch. Because of the travel time a reduced squad was selected. They had a lot to live up to, having won their first two games of the season, with very convincing wins against Rotherham and Sheffield.
Straight from the kick-off Tigers were up and in the faces of the opposition. Having secured the ball Tigers worked their way towards Ripon’s try-line with a display of controlled rucking

U14 - Break.  © Steve Duffy 2009

through a number of phases. Five metres from the try-line Dylan Poyser took a short ball pass and drove through to score the opening try, Joe Duffy just falling short with the kick. From that moment on Tigers took control and displayed a determination and desire to take the game to Ripon. The forwards were working hard to dominate the opposition pack and succeeded in achieving a four phase attack before (Captain) Guy Borrowdale powered over for an unconverted try. The restart saw much of the same pressure. With a turn over ball from a Ripon line-out Borrowdale ran through to score his second try under the posts, with Duffy converting. Again Tigers were having all the possession with both backs and forwards showing very good ball handling and support play. Just before half-time the pressure paid off with Poyser going over for his second try.
The second half started with a more organized and determined Ripon side and although they lacked possession they worked hard to break down Tigers at the gain line. However, Tigers continued to play controlled rugby, Borrowdale secured the ball in the line-out and ran through the Ripon defence to race towards the try-line, an excellent offload in the tackle was

U14 - Break.  © Steve Duffy 2009

picked up by the support run of Chris Honeywell who score between the posts. Tigers were camped in Ripon’s half who now had resorted to a kicking game to try and relieve the pressure. A grubber kick through by Charlie Hawkins saw Ripon’s defence turned, Tiger’s forwards were very quick onto the loose ball, again Poyser picked the ball up from the back of the ruck, ran down the blind side to score a deserved third try. Tigers then brought on all three substitutes to keep the pressure on Ripon. With the game nearing an end Ripon had the put in to the scrum deep in Tigers half, a strong push saw Tigers win quick ball, against the head, and slick passing down the backs saw Oliver Rasch run from very deep to score between the posts. Duffy completing the conversion. Tigers saw out the game in complete control. This was an excellent team effort and a powerful display of tackling, ball handling and support play. Well done. All!

Tries: Dylan Poyser(3), Guy Borrowdale(2), Chris Honeywell(1), Oliver Rasch(1)
Conversions: Joe Duffy(2)
Report by: Steve Duffy