Hainault Bulldogs U16s 40 v Stanley Rangers U16s 28
(Friendly)
30.08.09

First of all a big thanks to Patrick  and Mark for the fantastic effort they have put in over the last  3months- cheers guys, much appreciated.

Picked up at Stanley for the journey south at 9 30am. everybody looking forward to the weekend ahead. Stopped off at Watford Gap for a coffee break - thanks Wayne for those great Starbuck coffees. Arrived at Wembley around 2ish, could not believe how traffic free it was into the car park. First stop was to find Liam a ticket and managed to get him one from a nice person. Also offered two executive tickets which we gave away to two rather merry ladies.Took up our seats and wow what a view in behind the sticks with the Wire fans (they are crazy!). Very disappointed  in the Huddersfield support which was very quiet.Atmosphere was electric - not being able to hear yourself speak. Great game, really enjoyed it. We made our way to the hotel in Barking, arriving around 6ish.Time for a chill-out for an hour and ready for transfer to Ilford for the presentation night for Hainault Bulldogs at the Red Cow public house. Great welcome and a party atmosphere.

Woke up Sunday morning ready for match day with a nice healthy breakfast with the boys looking tip top in matching gear. Took the tranfer down to  Dagenham - what a nightmare finding that place. Arrived 10 30 for the game with the boys looking forward to the game. Played against some big lads. Kicked off at 12 and the boys started really well taking a 18-6 lead before conceding a couple of tries before half time.Jack with 2 and Richy 1, with Ginner kicking all 3 conversions, 18-16 at the break.

In the 2nd half Hainault started very brightly with a big powerful centre smashing through the defensive line with ease. We seemed to tire quite easily or was it the thought of trying to stop this big powerful centre who was only 15. Hainault ran out 40-28 winners at the end but the boys played some nice rugby in patches but ran out of steam in the end, on a hard pitch. Hats off to the boys, with good effort from Richy, Ginner, Azza, Parker,and that little battleship Luke.

All in all a great weekend which the boys realy enjoyed. Hoping to do  a trip to Latvia in May.         

Outside Wembley	The team at the stadium	The teams before kick-off
At Hainault Bulldogs club	The team (1)	The team (2)