Guernsey U12 V Jersey U12

Jersey U12s Overcome Thunderstorms and Physical Guernsey Side in tough Siam Cup win.

Jersey U12s produced a superb display of courage and attacking rugby to defeat Guernsey U12s by six tries to three in a dramatic inter-island clash played in torrential rain and thunderstorms.

After an early morning trip across to Guernsey, Jersey were immediately put under huge pressure by a big, physical Guernsey side backed by a loud and partisan home crowd. The opening 10 minutes were dominated by relentless Guernsey attacks, but Jersey’s defence was outstanding, with Bohdi, Ted Crill, Eddie Wickham and Logan putting in a big defensive shift. Time and again the visitors held firm on their own try line with brave tackling, strong organisation and incredible determination.

That defensive effort proved to be the turning point of the match.

After finally forcing a turnover deep in their own half, Jersey broke free with a lightning counterattack and Harry Planterose raced the length of the field to score the opening try against the run of play. The score lifted the whole team and suddenly Jersey began to play with confidence despite the driving rain and slippery conditions.

Jersey then took control of the contest, powerful running and quick support play getting the ball out to flying wingers Jakob and Hugh whenever possible. The attacking efforts being rewarded with Teddy Whitchurch, Finn, Lewis and captain Harrison Woolgar crossing the line to score four more excellent tries. Jerseys handling in the wet conditions was exceptional and they punished Guernsey whenever space opened up. At 5–0, Jersey looked firmly in command.

But strong Guernsey team refused to back down.

Inspired by their home support, the hosts mounted a fierce comeback and scored three unanswered tries as the stormy conditions lifted and handling became easier. Momentum swung back towards Guernsey and Jersey were forced once again to dig deep defensively against a side carrying the ball hard at every opportunity. The Jersey team bolstered from the bench by fresh legs and determination from Louis, James Taylor, Sidney, Jimmy and Joe Vaughan fought hard to repel the hosts waves of attack.

With Guernsey pushing hard to close the gap further, Jersey produced one final moment of quality. A flowing attack started by scrum half Felix Eastwood, ended with Finn scoring for a second time in the corner for their sixth and final try to seal a memorable victory.

In brutal weather conditions, against a powerful home side and in front of a passionate crowd, Jersey showed outstanding resilience, teamwork and character throughout. Well done to everyone involved!

Thanks to our Sponsors
First and foremost we would like to thank our dedicated Junior Siam Sponsor, Pentera Trust. Their support was crucial in enabling us to get so many players across to Guernsey for the Junior Siam Festival and we are very grateful! 

Thanks also to Santander International, Jersey Sport for travel grant funding this season and Oakbridge for our travel kit. 

B Edmunson-Jones
E Wickham
F Eastwood
F Mangematin
H Woolgar
H Planterose
H  Bosio
J Pluijmaekers
J Mackintosh
J Taylor
J Vaughan
L Rondel
L Megaw
L Pallot
S Jones
E Crill
E Whitchurch

Jo Butters - manager
Owen Woolgar, Matthew Planterose,  Justin Hewgill,  Steve Megaw and Andi Vaughan- coaches