We have fixtures against Boundary Oak, Fareham tomorrow with the U13, U12 and Foals A contact groups. For all others, there is Games at home.
This afternoon, cross-country teams have competed at Horris Hill. We look forward to hearing how our runners got on.
After half-term, there is a series of water polo meetings at Twyford from 1700-1800. These are:
Monday 19 February
(this is the first Monday back
after half-term!)
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U10 A & B (Year 5) |
Monday 26 February |
U11 A & B (Year 6) |
Monday 4 March |
U12 A & B (Year 7) |
Monday 11 March |
U13 A & B (Year 8) |
Teams have been selected on SOCS. The idea is that we have a bit of a coaching session to familiarise ourselves with the game and then play a couple of small matches. If your son, selected for the fixture, can’t make it, please alert me so another may have the opportunity. As the game is a mix of swimming and contact rugby, this is what has informed my initial selections.
Team
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Opposition
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Venue Details
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Start
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Return
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Wednesday 07 February 2024
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U13 XIII
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Boundary Oak
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Home | Bailey
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14:30
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16:30
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U12/13 A Touch
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Games - coaching
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Home
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14:00
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15:30
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U12 XII
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Boundary Oak
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Home | Middle
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14:30
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16:30
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U12/13 B Touch
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Games - coaching
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Home
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14:00
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15:30
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U12 B XII
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Boundary Oak
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Home | Wolvesey
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14:30
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16:30
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Colts U11 Rugby Group
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Games - coaching
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Home
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14:00
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15:30
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Foals A VIII
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Boundary Oak 7s
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Away | Boundary Oak
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13:30
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17:30
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Foals U10 Rugby Group
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Games - coaching
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Home
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13:50
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15:30
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Under 9 Rugby Group
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Games - coaching
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Home
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13:50
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15:30
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Skiing Group
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Skiing
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Alpine Snowsports, SO16 7AY
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14:00
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16:30
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Monday 19 February 2024
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|
|
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U10 A & B
Water Polo
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Twyford
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Away
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17:00
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18:30
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Match reports
Friday 26 January
U9A VII vs Elstree
Won 8-9
Pilgrims’ found themselves up against a willing team who, from the first whistle, looked like they were capable of scoring tries. It was an even contest in the early stages, with Elstree sneaking ahead. Some excellent running from Pilgrims’ allowed the score to lean slightly in Pilgrims’ favour going into half-time. The second period saw Pilgrims' up the intensity of their tackling, stopping Elstree from advancing more regularly. In the final stages of the game, some impressive offloads and passing from Pilgrims’ saw them take the win by a single try! JB
U9B VII vs Elstree
Lost 7-3
This was a good game with some excellent play from both teams. Elstree had a couple of speed merchants who found gaps in our line and exploited them – something to learn from moving forward. We had some great moments though, and our own speedster, George I, found the gaps and ran in a couple of great tries. There was no lack of determination and team spirit from our boys, and I was pleased with the effort shown. I think we all agreed that our defensive line and tackling needed to be tighter, and in that respect, it was a good learning experience. Everyone enjoyed the match, which was played in a terrific spirit. AZ
U8A VII vs Elstree
Lost 18-17
An incredibly even game between two evenly matched sides. Pilgrims’ seemed to have the upper hand for much of the first half, staying a few tries ahead from the beginning. Some strong dashes from Tristan, Teddy W and Aarav helped us stay on top. Elstree stayed courageous and managed to clinch the game at the last minute. However, the game really at this level is for the boys to familiarise themselves with the basic settings for rugby and for the game to flow in a more traditional sense. Targets were set for the boys to start spreading out in defence, passing down the line a bit more and also to release the ball quickly when they come into contact. A great game all, well done. CAL
U8B VII vs Elstree
Lost
This was a fairly even first half, and I was pleased with the passing from the tag. In the second half, we seemed to fall away, not helped by the fact that we couldn’t seem to grab their tags! Still, we continued to work hard and kept our heads up. We look forward to our next fixture. AJS
U8C VII vs Elstree
Draw
The Pilgrims' team played very strongly in attack throughout the entirety of the game. Their great speed and agility was helpful in scoring 8 tries. Specifically, Isaac did well in this area. Our defence was not particularly strong, and this is what led to us losing our lead within the last couple of minutes of the match. Overall, it was a great game, and the boys maintained a very strong enthusiasm for the match. ALD
Wednesday 31 January
U13A XIII vs Westbourne House
Drew 15-15 (Barnaby D, Neil C 2)
This was an even, close, exciting game. Barnaby D finished a Pilgrims’ move in the far-right corner to open the scoring, which was followed up with a Neil C breakaway try. At half-time, the message was that the game remained tightly poised and, sure enough, Westbourne clawed back two tries to tie the game up, despite our making them work very hard to do so.
Neil found a gap to accelerate through to take us one up but, just before the final whistle, Westbourne found an equalizer to end what, on balance, was a fair result. AJS
Pilgrims U12 & 13 A touch v Westbourne House
Won 5-1
Despite not having played a huge amount of touch rugby, you could tell that Westbourne had some decent rugby players. Whilst there was a period of acclimatisation to the nuances of the game, we wasted no time in showcasing our own skills, scoring some well-worked and exciting tries, particularly down the left wing. We were efficient in defence, too, looking to rush up to prevent easy yards being made, encouraging Westbourne to run laterally. You could see a lot of the work in training really coming off, with boys looking to draw defenders before releasing the ball and playing good, exciting, heads-up rugby, attacking space where they see it. The first half was competitive enough, but relatively comfortable, and an encouraging demonstration of the boys' commitment to attacking rugby. Well done! WD
Pilgrims' U12 & 13 B touch v Westbourne House
Won 4 -2 (Felix F 2, Adam K, Johnnie B)
Having watched their first match against the A team, one could be forgiven for thinking Westbourne would tire in this second match; however, they seemed more energised than in the first game! Pilgrims' were dominant throughout the match, with some great surging runs from Ayden C and Jerry D, but because they had been touched in the process, it meant they had to offload to a willing supporting teammate on both occasions. This was a much more end-to-end match, as Westbourne began to fully appreciate the rules, whilst also breaking through the Pilgrims’ defence on numerous occasions, only for loose ball handing to let them down on the tryline. AA
U12A XII vs Westbourne House
Lost 35-15 (Charles N, Jacob H, Ike C)
This fixture started off very competitive and back and forth, it seemed every time we were picking up momentum to surge into the lead an error or unfavourable decision derailed that momentum. Most pleasingly the team showed huge improvements in understanding and execution. Support play was much improved and defensive line speed and pressure was much better than in previous outings. Consistent effort throughout and greater controlled aggression in the breakdown are required to ensure we protect the ball and convert our opportunities. AC
Colts A IX vs Westbourne House
Lost 15 – 30 (Theo W, Austin S, Archie W)
Westbourne were a determined and well-organised team. In the first half of the match, they were dominant at the ruck and in the tackle and put Pilgrims’ on the back foot throughout. Although Pilgrims’ never gave up, the score at the end of that half was 5 – 20. The second half was a slightly different game. Westbourne were still stronger at the ruck and in the tackle, but Pilgrims’ ran with more courage and passed with more flair, securing a 10 – 10 draw while having the upper hand by the end of the game. Westbourne were stronger because at the rucks, and in the tackle, their commitment was total. Westbourne are right at the end of their season and had a lot of experience going into this match. Pilgrims’ are only just getting started with their season. One key learning point in this game was that Pilgrims’ need more confidence in their physical abilities. When boys like Austin S, James Y, and Lucas J properly ran at their opponents, they made huge inroads. This came as something of a surprise to these boys but will be a strength of the team going forward. The team were led brilliantly by Archie W who once again was a force of nature and arguably the best player on the field. Man of the match this week was Patrick B who was dauntless in his tackles and shrugged off some massive hits which would have put many other boys on the sidelines. PB
Colts B IX vs Westbourne House Colts B
Lost 35 - 5 (Riku K)
Pilgrims hosted a very strong team from Westbourne, providing an exhilarating game of running rugby filled with a high level of sportsmanship. The match commenced under overcast conditions, setting the stage for a day of enthusiastic and determined play.
Westbourne House established a strong presence early on, displaying impressive skill in both kicking and running. Pilgrims' faced a challenging start, conceding tries in quick succession in the first half. Despite this, the team's commitment did not wane, and they sought ways to counter the formidable Westbourne House strategy. The first half also brought an unfortunate injury to Rufus Mc, whom we wish a speedy recovery.
Refusing to let their spirits be dampened, Pilgrims' rallied at half-time. Boris' leadership on the field kept the team's momentum alive, learning to collaborate more effectively and move the ball with greater speed. Exceptional running by Riku K and Nicholas M, along with Theo M's strong encouragement and dedication in tackling and rucking, highlighted the team's resilience.
A standout development was their improved awareness of space, with Eddie Q utilising strategic kicking to exploit gaps behind Westbourne's defence, applying considerable pressure.
Despite the rain in the second half, the match was a dynamic affair. Both teams showcased moments of brilliance. A memorable highlight for Pilgrims' was a beautifully executed play that saw the ball moved out wide, allowing Riku to score a try in the corner.
Throughout the match, the principles of respect, teamwork, and fair play were prominently displayed by both teams, embodying the true spirit of the game. Despite the challenging opposition, Pilgrims' concluded the match with a score of one try to seven (5-35). Special thanks are extended to the away coaches, and the parents and teachers for their support. This match not only showcased the talent and determination of our Colts squad but also provided valuable lessons from which to grow and develop. JAL
Colts C IX vs Westbourne House
Won 50 – 40
The Colts played an outstanding game of rugby, and even though the match was a to-and-fro affair, the boys did well to hold their nerve, and secure their first win of the season.
A notable improvement this week was the fact that the boys ran the ball more from the word go. They are very tough with the ball in hand, and they are strong on their feet. Sasha G scored a lovely try from the half-way line, evading most of the Westbourne House players. Seb W was tough when he had possession, and scored three tries from various places on the pitch. He must also be commended for soaking up a lot of enemy fire, and for displaying tremendous grit. Newcomer to the team, Anton S, scored two tremendous tries, taking most of the opposition over the line with him on both occasions. He is a tremendous asset, and his size and strength make him a force to be reckoned with. Our gentle giant, Alex L, has found his mean streak, and can be relied upon to carry the ball deep into the opposition’s half at will. He scored three well-earned tries, and took much confidence from this performance. Edward D was reliable as ever, and added a try of his own to the scoreboard.
Westbourne House were by no means victims in this lively game, and scored 8 tries of their own. They kept the Pilgrims' boys on their toes, and made sure that the tackling practice has not been in vain. This is an aspect of the game that we can improve on, and I look forward to seeing some cleaner defence in the weeks to come.
A great result to write home about! CXC
Colts Touch IX vs Westbourne House
Won 13-10
An outstanding performance from the Pilgrims’ boys. George W scored heavily along with some outstanding running from Albert T. Henry SM also performed well and showed great desire during the match. Well played boys.
Foals A VIII vs Westbourne House
Lost 35-10
Pilgrims’ Foals A showed a great deal of heart and determination throughout the game. Westbourne maintained a fairly strong hold on the game, but the boys dug in and got some rewards of their own. Nicholas B was a colossus. He haired around the pitch making a number of try-saving tackles and was disruptive in the breakdown. His endeavour spurred on the troops as we put on a much better display in the second half. William W worked well, offering support in defence. Again, Finlay N showed his ability in offence and defence. His ability to wriggle out of tight situations is a real asset to the side. Not the right side of the scoreline today, but plenty of positives to take forward. MTG
Foals B VIII vs Westbourne House & Pennthorpe School
Lost V Westbourne – 30-10 (Alex 2)
Draw V Pennthorpe 30-30 (Alex 2, Marek 2, Inigo, William)
A generally fantastic and heart-warming performance from the mighty B team was witnessed today. Coming off the back of two heavy defeats last Wednesday, it was fantastic to see the boys respond so well during training and matches. Our target for the fixtures was to take the ball into contact more, go down and present the ball back to our team. This happened consistently, and as a result, the ball stayed in the team’s possession. Westbourne were a tough team to play first up, but it was encouraging to see some physicality from Marek & Inigo in particular, with Alex S managing to penetrate their defences on two occasions. With the boys fully warmed up, we went into our next match with a full fighting spirit, with each of the members of the team putting in a great effort. Marek and Toma both looked extremely threatening with the ball in hand. William, Alex and Inigo all managed to get the ball over the line, with Pilgrims’ Bs taking the lead for the first time in a rugby fixture, possibly. The highlight for me was some very impressive running from Edward, who on one occasion threw the ball without looking, which landed right in Inigo’s hands for him to take it over the try line. Some might say this was luck being on our side, but fortune certainly favours the brave. In the end, I was very happy with a well-earned draw, and it was great to see an opposition team cheering themselves that they had managed to catch up to our scoreline. Well done boys, a much, much improved performance. CAL.
U12 B vs Westbourne House
Won 45 – 30
Another great victory of constant dominance and integrity for the U12 Bs. Despite a loud and aggressive attitude thrown against them by Westbourne, our boys gave it right back and won the first half 30-0. Sam O’Brien and Patrick made crucial ruck overs and try-saving tackles to further the spread our lead even further with help from Yash dodging and weaving through the Westbourne defence. Dami came into his own in the second half with two tries, leaving half the Westbourne team on the floor behind him. Overall, a positive result and a continuation of the unbeaten record. AZ
Friday 2 February
U9A VII vs Cheam
Lost 4-6
Pilgrims’ were unfortunately 4 tries to 1 down within the first 5 minutes after a slow start. Once the boys found their form and the tackles started to come, the game was very even. Pilgrims’ clawed their way back into the match, but it was too late. A close and very high-quality match.
U9A VII vs Farleigh
Draw 4-4
Another fantastic game with quality on show. The match ebbed and flowed, and Pilgrims’ were perhaps the better side. Only a controversial final try from Farleigh in the final phase of the game stopped Pilgrims’ earning the win. Well played. JB
U9B VII vs Farleigh
The boys got off to a flying start against Cheam in the first of their two games. From the first pass, Scipio received the ball and powered down the wing for a try. And the game continued in that vein, with great runs and trys from Bertie and George, with an excellent defensive line and great tackles going in – the boys have clearly listened in training. We won the game 2 – 7, a convincing win. We lost our second match against Farleigh, who were a tougher opponent. We ran them close, and but for a few handling errors and getting a bit tired in defence, it could have been much closer. Overall, a great display which really highlighted the progress the boys have made already. Their understanding of the game is coming on leaps and bounds! SXT
U8A VII Triangular Farleigh & Cheam
After several strong performances from the Y3 A team, playing Tag Rugby, the boys this week took one further step towards the real thing with Farleigh opting for the ‘Touch Union’ version of the game. Touch union involves two separate touch tackles from opposition players, with players encouraged to look for the pass and run onto the ball after their first touch is called. The boys responded well to this challenge and continued to demonstrate their skill as a year group. Tristain performed some excellent runs with the ball in hand, crossing over the try line on several occasions to either score or set up a try. He was heavily supported by Dev, Oliver and Aarav who all looked strong and confident when running with the ball. All the boys deserve credit for their perseverance, particularly given the length of the first half of the match and, despite the losses to both schools, it was great to see so many smiles on faces throughout the afternoon. Well done all. CAL.
U8B VII vs Farleigh
The U8B team played a round robin of Touch Rugby, with matches against both Cheam and Farleigh. This was a new game for the boys, as they mostly train for Tag Rugby, and therefore, they were very excited to try something different, and learn some new skills. The first game against Farleigh was difficult, as the boys were getting used to not being able to run through the opposition, due to the touch rules. They progressed through the game and tried to focus on running forwards, and always gaining metres, rather than running away from the opposition. The second match was a great display of how the boys adapted to this game and grew as players. Inigo E. was a great defensive asset as he consistently and effectively charged the opposition, leaving them less time to gain ground. In attack, Sahil and Teddy J. did well in dodging the opposition and using their speed to outrun the Cheam players. The first half of the Farleigh match was incredibly long, and the boys should be commended for how well they maintained their energy during both matches and continued to improve throughout. ALD
U8C VII vs Farleigh
What an afternoon of Rugby to be involved in. Farleigh hosted a Touch Union triangular with Cheam. An excellent opportunity for the boys to experience a match day and test their skills! There was a nice level of anticipation and excitement from both boys and parents. Spurred on by our touchline support, the boys made great progress throughout the two fixtures. Isaac M led our defensive line excellently, his work rate and desire to make ‘tackles’ was superb. The boys ran well with the ball, Samuel B showing an excellent turn of pace, as he weaved through the defence. The second match, against Cheam was a very close affair. End-to-end stuff! Finn M proved himself to be a very useful attacking outlet for the team. He found a pocked of space on the wing, before swallow dive to touch down over the line! The boys should take a great deal of confidence from the games. The developed well as a team and individuals, well done all. MTG
Saturday 3 February
U13A XIII vs Farleigh
Lost 35-5 (James P)
Our lack of width was exposed as the game wore on. Despite some good physicality and scrambling defence, we put pressure on ourselves with some wild passing and didn’t hold our defensive alignment, nor take the space away from Farleigh by pressing as a line. Yes, we missed Neil, but we need to learn to cope with his absence by continuing to gel as a team and consolidate the basics.
There was honest endeavour in spades. Ben A forged the way to our try with great inroads with good presentation which was then picked up by James P who went over the line. Bertie W picked a great line to go through for about 60 yards. Barnaby D was relentless – as were many others. It was a disappointing loss but we pick ourselves up and go again against Boundary Oak. There is a lot of work to do this Tuesday afternoon. AJS
U13B vs Farleigh
It was good to get an opportunity for all in the U13 group to play a full amount of rugby, with this ‘B’ fixture. There were some good learning opportunities in terms of spacing, which the boys dealt with better in the second quarter. Bryan and Summer showed some brilliance with ball in hand. Henry B made some great defensive efforts. IB
U12A VII at the Cothill 7s
From a 'wins to a losses' perspective... not a great day at the office, but from a learning and development standpoint, I couldn’t be happier with how the U12s did on the day. Drawn in a very tough group that included Farleigh, Elstree, and Ludgrove, we opted to focus on match objectives rather than fixate on winning and losing. The physicality we showed throughout the tournament was excellent and teams that had completely blown us out were held to very tight games. Indeed, we held the group winners to the fewest points in the competition, but sadly, with two explosive players out, we could not quite drive the ball down the field to score often enough. We were really solid in the breakdown and moved the ball well through our hands. Tackling in the tournament was much improved and there was even a semblance of an organised back line! I hope that the boys involved can continue to build from this momentum, and we can bag a few more victories. AC
U12B XII vs Farleigh
Lost 5-20 (Gleb H)
Despite the scoreline, Pilgrims’ U12 played very well against a powerful and very physical Farleigh side. The first half saw Farleigh making all the gains and very much at home in the Pilgrims’ 22. However, resolute defense kept Farleigh at bay for the first ten minutes, but Farleigh playing with width made the difference, and they managed to cross the whitewash three times unanswered. After some positivity in the chat on the walk back to the halfway line, Pilgrims’ started to compete a little better at the ruck, which made space for Gleb on the wing to pin his ears back and go. No one was catching him – a great score. The second half looked like a tidy and entertaining game from both teams and whilst the only score was a very hard-fought try to Farleigh, Pilgrims’ looked the most likely to score for most of it. Well played boys, and thank you for such a determined performance that was full of heart and greatly enjoyed by a sizeable turn-out on the touchline. SL
U12/13 Touch vs Farleigh
Given the depth in quantity (and quality!) at this age-group and discipline, we have the luxury of being able to field three teams, compared to most other schools’ one. Of course, this provides a great amount of flexibility between the squads, which is what we saw on Saturday when the three Pilgrims’ teams took on Farleigh. Each match was pleasingly tight with Farleigh edging the first encounter 4-2 (with Adam K and George Si scoring). The second match was an even more balanced encounter with neither team able to break the deadlock until the final match-winning try from Ayden C, (Louis M and Ayden scoring the other tries), giving Pilgrims' their first win of the afternoon. The final match was another close game, and one sensed Farleigh had begun to find some form and work the gaps in the Pilgrims defence. Despite four Farleigh tries, Pilgrims' hunt for a win was in vein despite tries from James H and a brace from George St. AA
Colts A IX vs Farleigh
Drew 15-15 (Christian B 2, Austin S)
The Colts A were on good form in this tough fixture against Farleigh. A few changes to the team made for an interesting afternoon, with Alvin F and Anton S having their first games in the A’s. Both boys did well and look to have much to offer rugby at Pilgrims’. Farleigh was a strong side. The first fifteen minutes went decidedly their way until Pilgrims’ had properly warmed up and run the coach journey out of their legs! It was 0 – 10 down at the end of the first half and getting back into the game looked like a very daunting prospect. However, as has been characteristic of the Colts As this season, they responded to adversity with determination. Archie W’s tackling cannot go unmentioned. It was extraordinary. Following his lead, the rest of the team got stuck in to almost every contact available. It was a terrific team effort. Patrick B and Elliot N both shrugged off injury and played a decisive role in the game with creative passes and quick thinking. Austin S scored a brilliant try in the corner to give Pilgrims’ a glimmer of hope. Christian B had a storming game, scoring two tries of exceptional quality which, alongside a brave and thoughtful game all-round, earned him man of the match. However, without the brave tackling and powerful ball carrying of Lucas J and Theo W, this game would have been lost. PB
Colts B IX vs Farleigh
Pilgrims' faced off against a highly skilled and well-coordinated Farleigh team in what proved to be a challenging and enlightening encounter. The match was held at Farleigh, where their team demonstrated exceptional talent and organisation from the outset.
Farleigh's strong runners took the lead early on, putting Pilgrims under pressure with two quick tries. Despite this, Pilgrims' showed resilience and determination, ending the first half with a close scoreline of 2-4. Notable performances came from Theo M and Pascal Y, who exhibited strong running and played a pivotal role in keeping Pilgrims' in contention.
The second half began with Farleigh extending their lead with an early try, marking a critical moment in the game. The vibrant home crowd added to the atmosphere, challenging the boys to adapt and respond to the external pressure. It was a test of character and focus for the team, and they rose to the occasion commendably.
I am particularly proud of the unwavering commitment shown by all players and their ability to finish the game with strength and determination. The final score was 7-3, a reflection of the intense competition and effort displayed by both teams.
The match was marked by several standout individual performances. Felix J and Edward D were formidable in their defensive tackles, showcasing their defensive prowess. Eddie Q, along with Harry C and Riku K, also showed moments of creative running, adding dynamism to Pilgrims' attack. A highlight was seeing Riku chase a kick, collect the ball, and score a brilliant try. The determination from Theo M, Boris H and Pascal Y was infectious and embodied the team's never-say-die attitude.
A key focus for Pilgrims' this term is enhancing teamwork and mutual support, especially in moments of adversity. Learning from each game, the team aims to build on their collective and individual strengths, acknowledging and encouraging one another even when mistakes are made.
Looking ahead, Pilgrims' are eager for their next game, viewing it as an opportunity to apply their learning and continue growing together as a cohesive unit. The spirit of improvement and teamwork remains high, with anticipation building for the challenges and achievements that lie ahead. JAL
Colts C IX vs Farleigh
Won 80-50
The Colts C match against Farleigh was extremely exciting and high scoring. The Pilgrims' boys focussed on maintaining their enthusiasm and stamina throughout the entirety of the game. They were determined to try their best for the whole 40 minutes. Alexander L. and Hal H. were our top try-scorers, using great speed and agility to break through the defensive line. The Pilgrim's defence was also very strong, especially after the half-time break where we discussed the importance of following up the kick and giving Farleigh less time to run with the ball. Will W. was a highly valuable player in defence as he was normally the first team member to reach the opposition, and never gave up on his tackles. Overall, the game showed a great progression of both teams' skills, and it was great to see the boys becoming more confident in both their attack and defence abilities. The end score was 80-50, with a win for Pilgrims'. ALD
Colts Touch IX vs Farleigh
Won 6-5
A fantastic performance and some excellent play from our boys. Albert T showed great pace and Wilfrid S also gave his best. Tries came quick and fast and despite some good play from the opposition, Pilgrims’ held out for the win! Well played chaps. JB
Foals A VII at the Cothill 7s
Foals A had an eventful day out at Cothill 7’s. Scorelines aside for the moment, this was a great opportunity to get lots of rugby in, developing as individuals and as a team. The team drew a fairly strong group, comprising of Summer Field’s, Prestfelde and Elstree. As the day progressed, our boys grew into each fixture. Our best group performance came against Elstree. Nicholas B and William W ran some destructive throughout the day. Finlay N and Benjy C both had moments of magic, jigging their way through different defences with ease. The group stage served as a good learning opportunity. After a couple of sandwiches, it was then time for our second group stage, where we were re-seeded. We started the next round of games excellently and looked like a more complete outfit. Competitive at the breakdown and looking more solid in defence. Inigo S-G was exceptional. He really worked hard for the team. Sadly, in a freak turn of events, our squad was somewhat diminished, leaving us with just four boys able to play in the final game. These boys gave it their all and should be commended for their determination to continue. Well done to each and every boy that played their part in the festival. MTG
Foals B VIII vs Farleigh
Lost 30-10 (Caspar 2)
The mighty Bs marched onwards this week on the back of a much-improved performance in Westbourne's triangular. With the boys starting to go to ground more and the game starting to look increasingly more like a solid rugby fixture with multiple phases, things were looking good, and spirits were high. Against a tough and well-drilled opposition, the mighty Bs did not disappoint, with each player committing thoroughly to the physical aspect of the game. Tackles were made, rucks formed, turnovers won, and every Pilgrims’ player carried on fighting til the bitter end. The game was always going to be slightly one-sided, but the opportunities for learning were ever present, and I was genuinely delighted with how the boys responded to the challenge. Player of the match for this fixture goes to Caspar, for some excellent running with the ball, including two tries, although again every boy received a Show Up for their contribution and resilience today. Well done all. CAL.
Foals Touch VIII vs Farleigh
An excellent game of fast flowing rugby with some superb skills and speed was enjoyed by all. Mr Buck's expert refereeing kept the game alive and the boys certainly improved their personal speeds as they kept up with play! What was impressive from Pilgrims' was their desire in defence to get back into line and prevent the opposition from clear scoring chances.
Excellent running from Rafe and Connor gave them some excellent tries, and we went into the last minute level. Pilgrims' were to score for the win........ Sadly, Mr Buck noticed an infringement and gave a penalty against Pilgrims'. Farleigh were to go the length of the field and despite Mr Buck putting the whistle to his mouth, before he could inhale, Farleigh scored for the win. An outstanding game and we look forward to the rematch! TWR
Congratulations to…
Daniel who participated in the County swimming Championship at the weekend, and he performed exceptionally well. He secured two silver medals in the 50m and 200m breaststroke events in the boys aged 10-11 group. Unfortunately, he narrowly missed the gold in the 50m competition by 0.12 seconds. He has qualified for the upcoming Regional Championships in April – good luck!
Andrew Short
Director of Sport