Sporting some cracking looking tour shirts with a lightning strike on the back the Spartans were ready to go. A squad of 16 lined up against Cinderford, Old

Crypts and Hucclecote. The progression this year means 12 starting players and 5 man scrums as the lads develop their play towards the full 15 aside. These matches were 10 minutes each half.

First up were Cinderford. From the first whistle the Spartans pressed hard and ran creative lines that immediately dominated the Cinderford defence. It didn’t take long for the first try to be scored after a great run up the slope, another try followed before half time but the team were also keen in the tackle keeping low to drop the Cinderford attacks early. 4 changes at half time didn’t change the momentum and a third try followed with the Cinderford defence becoming frustrated and allowing their tackles to slip too high. Safety is paramount in the game and a series of penalties followed allowing the Spartans to apply more pressure and finish off with a couple more tries before the final whistle.

Next up were Old Cryptians. This was a slightly different proposition with a number of very big players on the opposition providing some sterner challenges in the tackle department. This was a really close game but the bravery in the tackle and some fine link up play gave the Spartans the first half lead by the odd try. There are some really exciting individual runners in the team but the team also works hard for each other, impressive so early in the season. More changes at half time but again no let up in the play. The teams traded attacks and tries in a really competitive second half and with the help from some brave defence the Spartans nudged ahead closing out another win despite a late Old Cryptians try.

The final match of the morning for the Spartans was against a very big and strong Hucclecote team. On a narrow pitch against a very big opposition it was hard work. Despite being outmuscled by Hucclecote the lads competed throughout and it was great to see some of the lads who had shone slightly less in the early games get stuck right in and show off their skills in this one. Hucclecote scored regular tries throughout the match with some direct running and great passing and came out worthy winners. Despite the result there were big smiles and cheers all round at the end of the match as the Spartans thoroughly enjoyed the first competitive outings of the season.

Big thanks to the coaches for their hard work in organising and encouraging the team. Great support from all the parents and families who cheered on the team throughout and special thanks to Julia for the hotdogs that were consumed in seconds by hungry mouths after the final match.

What a great way to start the season – well done all!!!

Many thanks to Cinderford, Old Richians and Hucclecote for travelling to us for the fixture. We look forward to returning the favour in the future.

Martin Southgate