The Stingrays kicked off their U15s campaign with a home clash against the US Heathens, and while the scoreboard tilted in favour of the visitors, the match itself was a showcase of spirited rugby, individual brilliance, and promising team development. From the first whistle, the game was played at a relentless pace, with both sides trading attacking phases and defensive grit in a thrilling end-to-end contest.

It was the Stingrays who struck first, capitalising on early pressure with a well-worked try that sent the home crowd into raptures. The opening score was built on sharp ball-handling and aggressive running lines, with Archie leading the charge — his dynamic carries and fearless breaks earning him the well-deserved Man of the Match accolade.

Jonah, William, and Theo added further punch to the Stingrays’ attack, each showing confidence with ball in hand and a willingness to take on defenders. Their ability to find space and drive forward kept the Heathens on alert and gave the Stingrays valuable territory throughout the first half.

The US Heathens responded with clinical precision, using their powerful back row and expansive width to stretch the Stingrays’ defensive line. Their ability to spot gaps and exploit mismatches led to a flurry of tries, turning the tide midway through the first half. Despite the scoreboard pressure, the Stingrays refused to fold.

Defensively, the Stingrays showed clear signs of progress. Codey, Leon, Lewis Wright, and Kallum all stepped up with improved tackling, halting several threatening runs and showing greater commitment at the contact zone. Their efforts helped slow the Heathens’ momentum and gave the Stingrays opportunities to reset and regroup.

In the breakdown, Charlie and George made their presence felt with much-improved rucking and physicality. Their work at the base of the ruck disrupted opposition ball and gave the Stingrays a platform to launch counter-attacks.

Strategically, Tobias and Lewis Withers demonstrated growing maturity in game management. Their decision-making under pressure — whether choosing when to kick, shift play wide, or hold possession — helped the Stingrays maintain composure and structure during key phases.

Damien brought relentless energy with ball in hand, driving into contact and refusing to go down easily. His spirited possession and defensive play lifted the team during challenging moments and helped maintain attacking intent.

At the helm, Josh led with discipline and positivity, embodying the Stingrays’ ethos of resilience and teamwork. His captaincy kept the squad focused and united, even as the game slipped away on the scoreboard.

While the final score line reads 21–63, the Stingrays leave this fixture with heads held high and a clear sense of direction. The team showed flashes of brilliance, individual growth, and collective determination. With improved tackling, rucking, and strategic play already evident, the week ahead offers a chance to refine defensive shape and support play before their next outing.