The Warwick fixture affirmed Bedford School Rugby Club’s strength in depth, with just two loses in all the second game fixtures that took place on Saturday.
It was a real demonstration of how important rugby is at every level at Bedford School. This coupled with the strength of character Bedford boys have, a never say die attitude and collective spirit that could raise even the most down trodden soul.
Warwick are always strong at the top end however, and bring a huge physical contest whenever the two schools meet. The 1st XV fought for their lives as Warwick battered away at their defences in search of the winning score. But Bedford held firm in what could only be describes as a heroic defensive display. The 2nd XV lost another close contest but should be commended for their intent to play in difficult conditions. The 3rd XV continued their impressive season with a committed display to edge out their rivals by four points. The 4th team lost their encounter to a well organised opposition. Playing against a clinical Rugby team the 5th XV struggled to finish the opportunities they created coming a comfortable 2nd.
The U16A team were out-powered in their game but the U16B had a much more even contest and were made to battle for their 29-22 win. The U16C team, who have only had a minor blip this season showed fantastic spirit and resilience to finish their game 7-5 winners. The referee, who also happened to be the Warwick Headmaster was keen to pick up on these positive traits displayed by the U16C team, a credit to the school.
Whilst the U15A team game followed a similar pattern to the U16A’s, the U15B produced something special to beat the side that gave them a hiding last year. What a turnaround and what a display of courage. Where the U15C won a tight game in the final stages the U15D lost in similar fashion. All three of these closely contested games were of high quality and were a demonstration of commitment from everyone on the field, a proper contest!
The U14As suffered a similar fate to the other A teams and the U14Bs also suffered a loss, albeit with a much closer score line. The C team, another second game team to have had a near perfect season were comfortable winners and their game play seems to be going from strength to strength. They flourished on the wide pitch, which shows how comfortable they are playing an expansive game. The U14D matched them with an equally impressive display. The U14s are a really exciting prospect and it could be one of those years where future stars emerge from the lower teams.
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