Hampton earn a nail-biting draw at Cardiff’s Arms Park.

under postsA 7-7 draw against Welsh school Ysgol Glantaf at Cardiff Arms Park was enough to see Hampton’s U13s through to the semi-finals of the School Sports Magazine National Schools U13 Rugby Cup.

Against tough opposition, who had amassed 248 points in the first four rounds of the competition, Hampton put in a great defensive effort to deny Glantaf a score at the death, meaning the Hamptonians progressed as the away side.

Hampton started the match brightly, with a try disallowed in the first few minutes, but the game remained scoreless at half-time.They then put together some excellent phases at the start of the second half to score the game’s opening try through Jamie Benson, who converted his own kick to make it 7-0 to the away team. However Glantaf responded a few minutes later with a try of their own to level the scores.

Hampton’s stern defence meant that the Welsh side could not find a breakthrough, and Hampton progressed through as one of the four regional winners.408 tunnel

The team’s coach, Mr Stephen Gray, was delighted with the boys’ performances:

“It was a monumental defensive effort from the boys and they were exhausted at the end. Glantaf is a strong rugby school and playing them at the Arms Park was a great experience for the team. I would also like to thank the parents who made the journey to Wales to offer support for the boys.”

Alex Taylor, the team’s captain, was complimentary of his teammates:

“Everyone gave their all and we held the opposition off well. We’re nervous for the next round but looking forward to it.”

The team will now play the winners of Trinity School, Croydon and Whitgift for a place in the final at Maidenhead RFU on Wednesday March 2.

 

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