Season Finale for Old Pats U12s
In what was billed as their final outing of an unforgettable season, the Old Patesians Under 12s were invited to compete in the Bard’s Cup in Stratford-upon-Avon — a fitting stage for a team that has made a habit of writing its own script.
Drawn into a pool with hosts Stratford 2s, Marlow (travelling from Buckinghamshire), and Barkers Butts 2s, Old Pats faced a demanding schedule of three 14-minute pool matches with the potential for a semi-final / final to come. They opened strongly, showcasing slick handling and most importantly solid defence, chalking up 2 wins. However, a lapse in concentration against Marlow nearly cost them, as some sloppiness crept into their defensive effort. Despite the scare, the boys just about held firm to win all three group matches and top the pool.
After a brief but vital refreshment break, Old Pats found themselves in a semi-final with Stratford 1s (a side that had handed them a punishing defeat earlier in the season) who had finished level on points with the Barkers 1s team in Pool A. This time out, the tables turned. Showing incredible determination, flair, and tactical maturity, Pats ran in three tries. It was a statement of intent win and set up a final with Barkers Butts 1s.
The match was an incredibly tense affair. Pats were under constant pressure, but through a well worked training ground move Pats struck first — the crucial early try. Barkers fought back hard, had most of the possession and probably played the better rugby, with the match finally ending 2-2. Celebrations briefly erupted, Pats believing the “first try wins” rule would crown Old Pats champions. In a display of rugby spirit, both coaches and the referee agreed: sudden death, next try wins! The tension on the sideline was palpable. A quick reset required, big game faces re-applied, some calming words from the head coach and they had to go again. As a spectator you’re now just a passenger – the boys must do the business on the pitch.
What followed was five minutes of nail-biting, high-stakes rugby. After a sustained attack and fearless play, Pats gained some great field position and subsequently a penalty close to the try line. Despite all of Pats silky passing and deft handling this season, sometimes route one is the option. A quick tap and go, one pass and one very strong carry later and Pats powered over the line to clinch victory and the Bard’s Cup.
An unbelievable finale to a remarkable season, with three trophies now gleaming in the cabinet. This was indeed The Last Dance.
A quick word for our wonderful hosts Stratford RFC, a class act and wonderful community rugby club, the event was exceptionally well organised. Thank you.
