A tough day at the office at Trojans

The rain eventually cleared just in time for kick off in Eastleigh as the Celts travelled to the Trojans Mini Festival. We were pooled in a strong group against county champions Alton, Basingstoke, Totton and Trojans.

First up was Basingstoke and a tentative approach to the ruck resulted in a tough game for the Celts. Good tackling technique shown by Bryn Allison and Aidan Bones lethal at the ruck as always! Tries from Charlie Fisher and a hat trick from William Breeze could not stop Basingstoke winning 6-4. An encouraging start with some areas to tighten up on.

Next was Alton who fielded a strong side full of confidence...probably not the best time to play them! They were sharper at the breakdown which was proving to be key. A try saving tackle from Harry Martin being the highlight of the game. Celts needed a break to regroup after a 5-0 loss.

After a few encouraging exercises the Celts were in confident mood themselves and faced hosts Trojans. Charlie Fisher (C) playing against his old club found a bit of fire in his belly and scored two full length tries! Super stuff! Great support play from Morgan Clayton too. Harrison Bennett and Charlie Fisher tracked back the whole length of the pitch to save a try and turn the ball over on our line. William Breeze scored another cracker to help Celts turn out 3-2 winners. There could have been more and it looked like the Celts were finding their groove. A note of praise to Kai Salmon in his first festival really showing he can play against experienced teams. Well done.

Last pool match was against Tottonians who were proving stern opposition for all with a few feisty players. George Popplewell lead from the front. William May (C) scored a brace of tries one of which was the final play and good pressure on the opposition scrum forced an error which he capitalised on.The Celts played better than before but unfortunately went down 3-2 meaning we finished 3rd in our group. A good result considering the slow start.

Trojans were our final opposition who ran out 5-1 winners despite an excellent try from Harrison Bennett and an all round team effort. Maybe just not enough gas in the tank but we should all be really proud of the boys as they tried their hardest and listened to their coaching (thanks Billy).

Thanks to John Breeze for taking some great action shots which should be visible soon.

Thanks to our sponsors Solent Fire Protection Services.

And....thanks to all the parents who made the effort in getting to Eastleigh in good time and bringing the boys. I hope everyone enjoyed themselves.

Petersfield away next week...more details to follow...

Monty