Stanley Rangers U9s v Stanningley U9s
15.03.09

Stanley Rangers Under 9s reward for their unbeaten record in the first half of the season was to be moved into the top group for the second half of the season, so their opening fixture against Stanningley was always going to be a tough encounter.

Both teams started well, showing good organisation and defensive strength to keep the number of scoring opportunities to a minimum. It was Stanningley who broke the deadlock, with a converted try putting them in front, but Stanley soon hit back with joint Man of Steel winners Jake Smith and Owen Trout making great headway for the team, which eventually lead to Owen crossing the whitewash and converting to level the scores.

Both teams traded sets with defences remaining on top, joint Top Tacklers Cameron Lees and Ben Green supporting their pack well, with some fine individual tackling. Stanningley regained the lead right on the stroke of half time with a super break through the middle of Stanley’s defence, but failed with their conversion attempt. Stanley had a determined look about them as they came out for the second half and man of the match Alfie Goddard showed a great step and turn of speed to score a great individual try, which he also converted to put Stanley in front for the first time in the game.

Stanningley tried to up the tempo in an effort to get back into the game but Stanley’s defence stood firm with Stephen Gibbs, Liam Brady and Declan Honeyman standing strong in defence. Jake Smith was involved in a lot of Stanley’s good attacking play, which was rewarded when Alfie Goddard scored his second try in the dying seconds of the game. Declan Honeyman converted to secure an impressive win for Stanley against the best opponents they have faced this season. The Outstanding Effort award went to Liam Sawyer for a much improved display, but overall it was a great team performance that sealed the win.

Tries: Owen Trout, Alfie Goddard (2)

Kicks: Owen Trout, Alfie Goddard, Declan Honeyman