Rugby Rob’s Match Report – Yate U8s at the Avonmouth Tournament

by Rugby Rob

What a day of rugby! A proper mix of nerves, excitement, and some seriously impressive team play from this fantastic U8s group. You could feel the buzz from the moment they arrived boots on, tags ready, and straight into it.

The opening game against our local rivals was exactly the kind of challenge you want to kick things off. High energy, a bit of edge, and plenty of determination from both sides. But what stood out for me was how the whole team pulled together. Everyone played their part, working as one unit, and that teamwork made the difference.

Game two saw us take on the hosts, and credit where it’s due they were very well organised and made things tough. This one was tight throughout, with both teams showing great discipline and structure, there was so much to take from the performance. The effort, the communication, and the willingness to keep going never dropped.

By the third game against Lydney, you could really see this team starting to think for themselves. Lydney came out strong, but instead of panicking, Yate adapted brilliantly. They began to read how the opposition were setting up, forced a number of tag turnovers, and then capitalised on those moments to take control of the game. A really smart and mature performance.

The fourth game was a mixed fixture with Bristol Harlequins helping make up numbers, and it turned into another great contest. Once again, Yate showed their quality, playing with confidence and freedom, and securing another win with some lovely attacking play.

Then came the final game against Trowbridge and you could see it had been a long day. Tired legs, heavy bodies, but not one player gave less than everything. This was all about grit. Digging deep, supporting each other, and finding something extra when it really mattered. What impressed me was there was not stopping them, and everyone played at 100% until the final whistle.

What impressed me most across the whole day was how this group is developing. They’re not just playing they’re learning. Thinking for themselves, spotting opportunities, forcing turnovers, and exploiting space. That’s not easy at this age, but they’re doing it, and doing it together.

A massive thank you to all the organisers, coaches, and of course the supporters on the sidelines your energy keeps these young players going.

A great day of rugby, a lot of smiles, and a team that’s only going one way.

Up The Yate! 💙💛