The Hallifordian - 2016-2017

72 Danial Matoorian-Pour and Robert Pleasance as well as strong performances by a number of play- ers who would have pushed some of the A team for places had they had the inclination to play up. Slow starts against King Edward (5-10) and Reading Blue Coat (12-31) encouraged the boys who produced a few magical displays, admittedly after inspiring team talks by Mr Harden Chaters and Mr Howard. The game against Wallington, in particular, epito- mised the tenacity and team spirit as they overturned a 17 point deficit to run out winners (31-24). Against Churcher’s College the long trip to Petersfield must have energised the team as they fought valiantly to a well-deserved victory (15-12). Wins over Gunners- bury (30-26) and City of London Freeman’s (28-14) added to their tally for the year and were countered by unfortunate losses against a spirited Wellington College team (7-25) and, in the final game of the season, Emanuel School (0-27). U13 It has been a particularly satisfying season this year for the 13A’s. The squad are a talented side, and although not maintaining their unbeaten run from last year, they have really developed over the course of the season and been enjoyable to coach. The A’s, captained by Rhys Day have main- tained pleasing standards of performance this sea- son. Players have shown versatility when injuries have occurred and this has helped build a squad mentality. The strength in depth of this group means players can be brought on in fixtures to make an im- pact. Two new additions to the side in Josh Bursen and Chris Long have been valuable. Both individu- als greatly impressed at pre-season and cemented their place in the side early on. Other key individuals this season have included Rhys Day, an outstanding young player who not only covers a huge amount of ground he also carries the ball with real ferocity. Ted Luckins and James Taylor have been reliable members of the pack who have remained impressive at the breakdown. Raff Hollister has also performed well in the centres, with his carrying ability positive attitude and his approach to fixtures. The season got off to a flyer with both Lat- ymer and King Edwards Southampton being beaten comfortably with no tries conceded. The first loss of the season came away at to RGS High Wycombe in the SSC Cup 12-27, an impressive, large, mobile side were a real challenge and ensured our U13’s did not become complacent. The boys hit a fantastic run of form after half term playing a fast paced, dynamic brand of rugby, particularly satisfying victories came away against City of London Freemans 34-0, Wallington County Grammar 25-0, Churchers College 30-10 and Ema- nuel 30-10. The boys should be satisfied with the pro- gress made this season. The B’s have approached the season enthu- siastically with impressive numbers turning out on a Saturday morning each week. Matt Lea has been the most improved play- er from last year, being a key performer in the B’s when not injured this season. Max Pillinger in the centres has also been impressive, his consistent per- formances saw him gain a couple of appearances in the A’s this season. Finally Ralph Greenwood re- turning from a long term injury which saw him miss half of the competitive season. His contact skills and carrying ability were of a real benefit to the B team back line. U12 The Under 12s have had a very good season in, what has been for many, their first experience of rugby. The A team has been competitive with a good structure and skills to match. Notable victories over The Latymer School, Salesian College and Ema- nuel. The highlight was without doubt the fabulous performance against a decent Hampton team. The B team have been the team of the season winning 5 out of 8. Many boys who played for this