Almost one year ago on a sunny sunday in Pencoed 2015, the then Under 9's came away tournament victors after overcoming opposition from South Wales. Turn the clock on a twelve month, same venue and similar conditions, the now Under 10's arrived at the Pencoed tournament apprehensive when looking at the talented opposition that we were up against.
The opposition within the group offered new and old challenges, Risca, the hosts Pencoed and London Scottish would severely test the RTB Steelers resolve.
First up were our good friends from Risca, this was the fifth time we have played each other this season and honours were even prior to this contest. The game was tight and the Steelers crept into a two try advantage, however we could never relax as Risca have a number of deadly players who can create magic. The defence held and a 10 points to 5 advantage set the RTB boys off to a great start.
This was followed by a win against the home side Pencoed, then came the touring side London Scottish. This provided a different challenge and the Steelers reacted superbly to prove to be far too abrasive for the tourists and ran out comfortable winners, Thomas Chaffey made his positional debut at scrum half in this game and showed that his future may be in the No'9 jersey.
The results recorded, ensured that the RTB Steelers emerged as group winners. that set up a semi-final against Llantwit Fardre. The nerves of the parents were starting to jangle, however there was no need to panic, the players were totally focussed and overpowered a vey good Llantwit outfit by 20 points to 5. The other semi final was an open contest between Risca and Nantyffyllon, which was won by the talented group from Maesteg (Nantyffyllon).
The final was a repeat of the contest to decide the Newbridge tournament held last September. The boys prepared in the right manner and took the field ready for the battle against an opposition who rarely lose. Possession held the key and the RTB's players 'jackled' for everything, giving the talented Nanty runners no time to get their running game going. A number of quick tries took the game away from Nanty and that lead was never threatened, a score of 20 points to 5 ensured the trophy returned to Ebbw Vale.
Neutral supporters passed comments on how 'streetwise' the Steelers are and everyone was very complimentary about the way the group performed. Such comments are a reward for the hard work all the boys put in on the training ground.
The celebrations commenced and it was rumoured that Gavin Henson came looking to have his photograph taken with the future stars from North Gwent.
Many thanks to all opponents who competed in such a dignified manner, and to the organisers who put on such a fabulous multi age group festival.
Tour now follows and a chance to try our hand at the RFU pathways, the excitement of being able to 'rip' the ball in one on one challenges fills this competitive group with excitement.
The team that done so well in the tournament was:
Jamie Reynolds, Liam Price, Mitch Parker, Josh Hathway, Max Gregory, Dylan Edwards, Lewis Prendergast, Charlie Birch, Josh Davies, Owen Jones, Thomas Chaffey, Callum Rooker, Joseph O'Farrell, Leon Williams, Johann Francis, John Atkinson
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