TJ U13 Warriors 40–10 Medway

The Warriors started on the front foot, putting the game plan discussed in the warm-up into practice. The approach was simple: use pods when the ball was slow, then move it wide through quick, straightforward passing when the forwards delivered faster ball.

This worked well and helped the Warriors establish control, although some uncharacteristic handling errors interrupted their momentum when the try line was within reach.

Despite those missed opportunities, the boys scored some excellent tries and raced into a 5–0 lead, with James Green crossing twice alongside Freddie, Jamie Ings and George Zhang. Medway responded with a try before two scores from Will Coombes gave the Warriors a commanding 7–1 advantage at half-time.

The second half was more evenly contested, with a competitive Medway side gaining a stronger foothold. The Warriors also drifted away from their game plan, contributing to a scrappier half in which both teams added one try. Bertie claimed the Warriors’ eighth to complete an 8–2 win.

There was plenty for the boys to be pleased with in their opening league fixture, alongside a clear lesson to take into the next match. Rugby rewards teams who do the simple things well, and the Warriors looked at their best when they combined direct forward play with accurate passing and disciplined decision-making.

This team has considerable potential. The challenge now is to maintain that focus across both halves, trust the game plan and execute the basics consistently. If they can do that, there is every reason to be excited about what this season could bring.