With a late change to hosting plans, Bishop Barmy’s U13’s were invited to play at Gateshead Rugby Club on Sunday. With almost a full compliment of players the lads were geared up for a good match against Gateshead.

Throughout the game, the two teams looked evenly matched. Both with strong front lines and both teams showing skill in passing the ball down the line.

Soon after the first whistle was blown Gateshead found a gap down the wing to score an early try. However, this was soon matched by Bishops forwards delivering a fantastic push forward with John securing the first try for Bishop within the first ten minutes of the game.

For the rest of the first half, both teams seemed equally matched with some great defensive tackles from Bishop as Gateshead tried to make breaks for space down the wing. Bishop’s forwards kept the ball in the opposing half for much of the remaining time until Gateshead managed to get a break with a try scored just before half time.

The second half started with a few changes to the team and a fresh determination, resulting in Blake making a blast passed Gateshead’s defence to bring a try home within minutes of game starting.

Bishops forwards continued to drive the ball up the pitch and keep it in the opposing half however Gateshead managed to find opportunities through loose balls and rips to secure another two tries.

Despite this, Bishop kept momentum and communicated well to ensure no more tries were scored. More quality defensive tackling and use of the gaps in Gateshead’s defence gave Blake another opportunity make another excellent run to get the final try of the match.

Head Coach Jonny highlighted the great improvements all round, despite the loss the lads stayed positive to the end, knowing they played some good rugby. Some fantastic tackling. We’ve seen improvement every match and as coaches, it’s great to see the training coming to life in matches.

Man of the match went to Isaac for his brilliant field positioning and organisation of the players in the centre of the pitch.

Harry H got the coveted ‘Mars Bar’ for his tackles against the biggest opposing players.