Crowborough U15s delivered a sensational performance on Sunday, 8 March, as they hosted Hove in what has long been regarded as one of the toughest fixtures in youth rugby.

Hove arrived with a formidable reputation, having remained unbeaten for six years, a record that has made them one of the most feared sides at this level. But Crowborough rose to the challenge in spectacular fashion.

From the opening whistle, Crowborough imposed themselves on the game, dominating territory and possession. Their early pressure paid off within the first 15 minutes when they broke through to take the lead, setting the tone for a fiercely contested match.

Hove, however, lived up to their reputation. Determined to protect their unbeaten record, they fought back with intensity, increasing the tempo and testing Crowborough’s resolve in what became a gripping battle between two committed sides.

With just five minutes remaining on the clock, the match hung in the balance 20-21. Then came the decisive moment. Fly-half Freddie Austin produced a moment of brilliance, executing a clever dummy switch followed by a dummy pass before delivering a perfectly timed offload to Maximus Trim. Trim burst forward, making crucial ground before crossing the line for the winning try, with Philip Sun in close support.

It was a fitting climax to a game defined by teamwork, determination and discipline. Crowborough’s defensive effort was equally impressive, with outstanding tackling from Jack Robinson, Miller Gagola, Digby Squirrel, Joshua Todd and Philip Sun who repeatedly halted Hove’s attacking threats. Also Marlowe Fraser, whose tireless efforts in pressing Hove’s attack and chasing down kicks.

When the final whistle blew, Crowborough had achieved what many thought impossible bringing Hove’s remarkable six-year unbeaten run to a dramatic end.

Crowborough 27
Hove 21

The victory reflects not only the team’s skill but also the spirit and values they displayed throughout the match. Coaches and parents alike expressed immense pride in the squad, praising the players’ commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship.

If this performance is anything to go by, Crowborough U15s are developing into a formidable team and perhaps offering a glimpse of rugby’s rising stars of the future. Crowborough U15s currently field two competitive teams that continue to develop strongly, with new players joining and contributing to the club’s growing strength at this level. Fin Hillman and Jacob Howarth being instrumental in building the squads depth with huge improvements throughout the season.

Well done to every player putting in a hard shift in and contributed to a great result. Also big th those non playing squad members who supported the team.

1) Digby Squirrell, 2) Jack Robertson, 3) Josh Todd, 4) Dan Booth, 5) Ollie Hawkes, 6) Sam Cook, 7) Benji Palmer, 8) Max Trim, 9) Owen Fee, 10) Freddie Austin, 11) Kayden Littlechild, 12) Philip Sun, 13) Miller Gagola, 14) Marlowe Fraser, 15) Adam Hicks, 16) Logan Watterson, 17) Jacob Howarth.