The U13’s travelled to Pulborough for their final first round waterfall match, where they were met by unexpectedly bright and surprisingly clement weather on the edge of the South Downs National Park.

Everyone arrived for the 10 o’clock meet and the game kicked off punctually at 10:30. Crowborough’s forwards put in a sterling defence, as wave after wave of crash balls came at them. The forwards were effective in winning the ball and releasing the backs, who ran in four unanswered tries, surprising Pulborough with the 0-20 scoreline.

Pulborough came back strongly and scored three tries in succession. In the final play of the first half Pulborough made it over the line and there was some debate as to whether the ball was grounded. However, the try was awarded and the first half ended all square at 20-20.

The second half could have gone one of two ways. Substitutions brought on fresh legs and Crowborough continued to dominate, going on to score a further four tries. The general consensus was that this was the best performance from the boys we’ve seen. They played great rugby through the hands, matched the opposition up front but more importantly demonstrated that they had the mental strength and self-belief as a team to achieve the result they so richly deserved.

Alex and Tom were men of the match for Crowborough, recognising their contribution to containing the Pulborough attack throughout the game. However, every single player played a key part in today’s victory. The team is beginning to gel together and today is hopefully a glimpse of their full potential.

We look forward to round two of the waterfall competition and what the team can go on to achieve.