Season kicks off with Cup match at Bradford on Avon

For the first match of the season Trowbridge u15s made the short journey to our local rivals Bradford on Avon for a Cup fixture.

On a warm sunny morning we had the privilege of playing on the first team pitch, and thankfully both teams put in a display that was worthy of that honour.

For the first 5 minutes Trowbridge power dominated and the players looked to be in control until a momentary lapse allowed the ever dangerous Bradford on Avon back line to break away and score an excellent try having started the run from their own 22. A great conversion saw the hosts lead 7:0 but the players knew their game plan and were determined to play to their strengths and disrupt Bradford.

Our extra physicality meant that we were able to build on early dominance and the tries followed, as we upped the tackle count which meant that our opponents could not get quick ball out. Two great tries and one conversion took us in at half time leading 7:12.

Having not played for a couple of months Trowbridge took a short while to find their game plan but really came out firing in the second half. 2 more quick tries followed, one of which was a really superb joint effort from Maksym and Finn sharing possession out on the wing. Bradford never gave up and were unlucky to have one try disallowed for a knock on, but ultimately the forward power and strong defensive tackling meant they could do little with the possession they had.

Deep into the second half play was interrupted when a Bradford player took a heavy knock and had to be stretchered off. The news from their coaches is that he is now recovering well.

A joint decision was taken to play on, spurred on by the injured lad as he was taken away on a stretcher, and after a few ragged minutes the final score was Bradford on Avon 7 Trowbridge 27.

The players have worked incredibly hard over the Summer, and the result was a credit to them all in an exceptionally good natured, fair but hard fought match. The team has progressed stage by stage over the last 3 years in Youth and they have now set firm foundations to continue their development as we face up to a tough season in u15s.

Thanks as always to the team and coaches at Bradford on Avon for a warm welcome from one and all.

Our referee kept the game moving, talked to the boys and contributed to a thrilling match for all the spectators.

Finally thanks to the huge group of parents who stayed to watch and cheer through every minute.