The Courier

Despite having played very little competitive tag rugby, the Under 9’s gave an absolutely superb account of themselves at the ISA Midlands tournament, pitting them against 11 other schools.

In the group stages Crescent won 2 games (including beating one of the eventual finalists), narrowly lost 2 games and drew the final one, meaning they ended up in 3rd place in the group, agonisingly missing out on a chance at the semi-finals by one point.

Not letting their heads go down at this, the team rallied themselves to win their play-off game against a very strong Tettenhall side, meaning an overall finish of 5th of 12 teams. Top try scorers for Crescent were Timi, Alex and Alex, with Albert voted player of the tournament for his excellent tackling and support play. A massive well done to the entire squad, who played their hearts out throughout.

The U8A team put in a fantastic all-around performance, with great team play and solid passing and tackling from all members. Alex and Matthew were formidable in defence clearing hard to ensure that the ball rarely stayed in Crescent's half for long. Lewis, Henry and Maxi excelled in midfield, using each other well and working hard to win the ball. Akaal and Zac gave options up front and pounced on any ball that came their way. The determination of this team to win the ball and battle hard meant that they created a huge number of scoring situations in both of their matches, and many were put away. Maxi, scoring in both matches and Akaal, Zac and Matthew also getting their names on the scoreboard. Final scores were a 4-2 win against Bilton Grange and 7-0 win against Crackley Hall. It was wonderful to have such a lot of support on the side lines and the boys thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon of hockey.

The U8B had a 1-0 win v Bilton Grange. Fantastic determination and drive from the offset leading to an early goal in the first half. Lots of continued pressure saw us maintain possession for the majority of the game with the ball in Crescent's attacking half with several shots going just wide of the goal. Great defence from Edward M and Shaylan made sure that any attacking play from BG was quickly closed down. They then won 9-1 v Crackley Hall. Great team effort by all the boys in both games, pressing the ball well, making strong tackles and driving the ball forward. Excellent crosses into the D by Max, Herbie and Edward W creating some excellent opportunities which Sam, Edward W, Herbie and Max were able to capitalise on. 

Great work by all pupils.

Mrs McCollin and Mrs Dowling

Crescent U11’s learnt some very valuable lessons at the ISA Midland Contact 7’s Rugby Tournament, improving dramatically as they went and finishing very strongly. Despite being blown away in the opening game by the eventual champions Crackley, they never let their heads go down, recording two narrow losses again Twycross and Dixie.

Crescent then played out of their skins, pulling off a fantastic victory over Dixie in the knock-out stages, leaving them to finish 3rd overall. Top try scorers were Eva, Aryan and Sam, with Sam also unanimously voted player of the tournament for his excellent skill and effort in both attack and defence.