Youngsters fly the flag in France (From Penarth Times)

Youngsters fly the flag in France

Over the bank holiday weekend May 4-6, Penarth Mini rugby went on their annual tour to Arras in France.

After leaving the club early on Saturday they arrived in Arras late afternoon.The next day saw them joining Arras and other French clubs in a tournament.

The quality of play by the under-11s was of the highest standard, despite playing under local rules which are different to those at home.

It was an extremely successful day with the under-11s winning all their matches. In the process they scored 35 tries and only conceded 1.

Rob Adams, Max Smith and Bethan Edwards had a great day as they each scored their debut tries for the season and Nick Morgan, Rowan Alcock, Huw Morgan and Liam Attwell gave their opponents a torrid time with strong and skilfull running, scoring with ease.

The forwards, Matt Creeden, Matt Rowlands, Louis Jones and Spencer Williams rucked and mauled to such a level that the French had no answers.

Each match was only eight minutes long and in one game Penarth managed to score 14 tries, a tremendous achievement.

Every player managed to get on the score sheet and this was great for team moral, each player had a medal for playing, but even though winning all their games, they weren't crowned champions, as the tournament was for a local cup.

Special mention goes to David Thomas who was injured early on, but still insisted in doing his part, and played very well, also Spencer, who was asked to switch from the centre to forward and was outstanding, winning the Penarth U-11s player of the day award.

The U-11s also played a game against their own U-10 side under our rules, and this game was watched by many of theF rench supporters and they were amazed at the high level of skill exhibited. It begs the question, why are the French so good at higher levels?

The club would like to thank Mr P Williams of Grosvenor Waterside for the generous sponsorship which helped the whole party by providing tour jackets.