The playing record of won 7 lost 4 would have been accepted at the beginning of the season, and in the context of what has happened since September is very impressive.
This season has been a success because of the depth, determination and resilience of the squad, which is reflected in the award of U16 Colours. Everyone has played his part to the full. The team was well marshalled by the returning Peter Lishman who not only appeared to defy medical logic by playing without an Anterior Cruciate Ligament, but also contributed so much with his tackling and creativity.
The forwards were a match for anyone and were outstanding all term. Jack Read never knew the meaning of giving up, Tristan Ward was always picking himself off the ground and Tom Hendrickse bought bags of enthusiasm to the game. This is not to undermine the other forwards who showed unbelievable tenacity and determination.
The squad played a very attractive style of rugby scoring some outstanding tries as witnessed against Nottingham High School, Old Swinford Hospital and RGS Worcester. Defence too was impressive, conceding only 14 tries. The backs got better with every game. Peter Lishman offered an incisive cutting edge, Chris Rosin proved what a versatile player he is by converting to fly half with consummate ease, while Gavin Sadler showed just what dancing feet are made for! The gas was provided by the three musketeers of Tom Chalkley, Tom Bradshaw and Joe Hone, although we never provided them with enough ball to show the damage that they could do. The exception was the RGS Worcester game when the backs finally cut loose.
Congratulations to Peter Lishman on his selection to represent Warwickshire U16 during the Christmas Term. The most improved player award goes to Giles Ellison who has worked hard to establish himself not only as a vital ingredient in the team’s success - showing tenacity, determination and above all enthusiasm - but proving what an intelligent and unselfish team player he is.
After Christmas the boys played with distinction for the 2nd XV, with Stuart Scanlan and Peter Lishman representing Warwickshire U17 XV.
Individual Performances
Top Points Scorers:
Peter Lishman (33); Tom Chalkley (30); Chris Rosin (25).
Top Try Scorers:
Chalkley(6), Rosin(5); Lishman, Scanlan (3).
Ever Present:
Ward, Ellison, Thompson, Howey, Rosin, Bradshaw, Hone
Mr M J Covill