Fixture

On a weekend when Wales, NewZealand and Toulon lost, RTB Steelers U11's came second in the scheduled away game v Aberdare.

Unusually the Steeler's were slow off the blocks and Aberdare exerted greater pressure and aggression to open up a 10 point to 0 lead within the opening minutes. Playing the slope efficiently, Aberdare continued to dominate the first quarter.

As the game progressed the boys managed to exert their influence on the game and a number of quick tries ensured that the game was level at 10 points to 10 at half time.

The prospect of playing down hill in the second half offered hope and as we kicked off, the third quarter belonged to RTB. However we did not manage to exert territory or possession onto the scoreboard. A lead of 15 points to 10 going to the final part of the game seemed to be comfortable, however as prop Jamie Reynolds broke the line and was tackled by the winger with inches to go, fabulous defence from Aberdare proved the pivotal moment.

Within minutes, the same winger broke free and scored the equalizing score. Now the momentum was with the home side and repeated attacks were repelled, however a fine back move was created by Aberdare to make space out wide that was well finished by the left wing.

The final minutes were frenetic,however the Aberdare defence were up to the task and held firm to record a 20 points to 15 victory.

The group find defeat unusual, however such should be treated as a massive learning curve and should profit from the experience. The forward power of the group deserved great praise and fabulous performances by Jamie Reynolds, Mitch Parker, Leon Williams and Max Gregory led the come back after the initial period. However, credit must go to Aberdare for playing the conditions and its fair to say that on the day the home side deserved their victory with a number of quality performances evident from their group.

'Winners never quit, Quitters never win'.