The Salopian no. 160 - Summer 2017

SCHOOL NEWS
49
Under 16
The Under 16s continue to be a delight to watch, and have
this year maintained their high levels of success. Though
blighted by injuries, this did not deter the squad from pulling
together to search for victory. This great strength in depth
saw them gain success against Repton 1st XV (28-12), Bishop
Vessey’s 2nd XV and King Henry VIII’s 2nd XV. It was only
when they came against a strong Welbeck U18 2nd XV that
the U16s lost their first ever 15-a side match at Shrewsbury
after 24 consecutive wins. With this record broken, the U16s
showed ever more desire to demonstrate their class, and their
run in the U16 County Cup encapsulated that. Tough games
against Adam’s Grammar and Abraham Darby showed their
mettle, as they came from behind in each game to win. The
county cup proved to be an eye-opener in the work that we
need to do with game control. On a pitch with a howling
gale from one end, we performed admirably to be only 3
points down at half time. With the wind on our backs, the
sensible option would have been to kick the ball into the
opposition 22 and make them play from there, as Wrekin had
done in the first half. Alternatively we constantly tried running
the ball, putting ourselves under undue pressure. This will
not work at the top levels, but we were luckily saved from
embarrassment by a Toby Pattinson try to win the game 5-3
and take the County Championship again.
The Sevens season proved more difficult this year, with
injuries proving too difficult to overcome as our backline
seemingly disappeared as we got closer to Rosslyn Park.
This was a real pity, though the boys have the opportunity
to do well over the next two seasons as U18s. The boys all
deserve praise for their efforts so far, though special mention
must be paid to Tom Plaut’s leadership, Harry Remnant’s silky
running, Toby Pattinson’s speed, Frank Morris’ side-step, Joe
Scott’s grunt, and Alex Schoelles’ tackling.
Under 15
At U15 level the boys have been inspirational this year. With
a minimal squad of only 15 players, they have played out of
their skin to register an unbeaten season, and reach the final
of the County Cup. Mr Bird has been hugely impressed with
the attitude of the boys, and the excellent camaraderie that is
shown in both practice and matches. As they start to link up
with the older boys over the next couple of years, there are
clearly some exciting times ahead. Above all their destruction
of Wrekin College 40-5 in the County Semi-final will live long
in the memory. Special mention must be made of Oli Shutts,
Frank Mansell, Harry Sutherland and Jack Goodall, who
encapsulate the positive attitude and drive within the squad.
Under 14
At U14 level the large squad have not had the opportunities
that they may have hoped for, but when they have arrived
they have taken their chances to show some superb talent.
The A team have some superb players, such as Will Stanford-
Davies who has been a splendid captain, leading from the
front and setting an example in his attitude to training and
on match days, whilst Ed Craik has played out of position at
prop despite being a skilful centre. Only losing one fixture
across the whole term, the U14s again show that Shrewsbury
can stand up with the best schools on the rugby front. This
was most notably displayed in their tight match with Stowe
School, and also in the County Cup semi-final which they
won 43-10 against a solid Marches team.
All-in-all, a fantastic rugby term for Shrewsbury; the strength
in depth continues to grow, whilst rugby itself flourishes with
the boys demonstrating superb attitude to their sport.
Chris Cook