🏉 Rugby Rob’s Match Day Report – Yate U11s vs Thornbury 🏉

Hello everyone, Rugby Rob here, and before we get into the action, I want to give a massive warm welcome to our newest matchday reporter, Rugby Riley! After hearing Rose and I moan about how busy Yate Rugby has become (in the best possible way!), Riley has jumped in to help cover our incredible Academy teams. And not a moment too soon, these kids are flying!

Now onto our brilliant Under 11s, who were back in action this weekend in another big test against a strong Thornbury side. And let me tell you… these players did not disappoint.

🔥 All Heart, All Effort, All Game

The Under 11s gave absolutely everything today. From the first whistle to the last, their intensity, determination, and passion were on full display. Despite being a little short on numbers, every single player stepped up and played with real heart.

One of the standout improvements this week was how confidently the team set up their rucks, clean, protected, and organised. That’s the sort of progress you love to see at this age. The work they’ve been putting in at training is clearly paying off.

Our captain Martha deserves a special mention for leading from the front. Whether we were in attack or defence, she was constantly organising, setting lines, and keeping the team focused. Fantastic leadership.

💥 Scrums, Confidence & Learning

With this only being their second game of the season, and with players still getting used to the introduction of scrums, the group adapted brilliantly. A special shout to Caitlin, who did an excellent job stepping into the scrum-half role, quick decisions, good hands, and improving every minute.

Thornbury were a seriously strong opposition, well drilled, physical, and clever with their ripping technique. They knew how to steal possession and turn it into momentum, and that made our players think fast and respond. And respond they did, with bravery in the tackle, commitment at the breakdown, and great defensive pressure.

🤝 Teamwork, Support & Spirit

What really stood out today was the team’s support play. Whenever someone made a break — boom — there was a teammate on their shoulder. When someone carried into contact, bang, someone else was there to clear out. THAT is what makes a team.

High intensity. High work rate. High smiles.

Exactly what Under 11s rugby should look like.

🌟 Midweek Training – A Big Step Forward!

Momentum is building in this age group, and I’m buzzing to say that thanks to incredible work from our Chairman and Club Development Officers, this team, along with the Under 10s, now has midweek training secured!

This means even more development, more teamwork, and more FUN.

📅 Wednesdays 18:30–19:30

📍 Yate Outdoor Sports Complex

💷 Completely FREE for all Under 10s, 11s and 12s (School years 5, 6 & 7)

This group is full of potential — future Colts, future South Glos Falcons, future leaders of our club. And extra training means even more growth for everyone.

⚡ Three Words That Sum Up Today

Effort. Progress. Pride.

Another huge step forward for this brilliant squad. Keep training hard, keep supporting each other, and keep enjoying every minute of your rugby journey. Big future ahead for this team, and I’m excited to be along for the ride.

See you all next week,

Rugby Rob 🏉