Paviors RFC

Sunday 13th February 2022 saw Paviors host the second round of the NLD U14’s cup. The predicted heavy rain had thankfully stayed away and conditions looked good, if a little muddy, for an entertaining rugby match.

This was the first NLD game that the current Paviors U14s had played in. However, after a positive warm up the lads showed no sign of nerves for their first competition game and started with spirit from the off. It was very apparent from the first whistle that both teams were “up for” this match, with both sides playing some great rugby. Paviors failed to capitalise on some early pressure, not being able to break the Scunthorpe line, despite being camped in the visitors 22 for some time. It was edge of the seat stuff as both teams vied to get the first score, and an advantage in the game. The defensive lines held well, with some impressive tackling on both sides, Scunthorpe managing to cross the Paviors try line with the last play of the first half.

The second half started 0-5, with Scunthorpe this time playing with the slope. Again, the standard of rugby on display was excellent from both teams, but Scunthorpe managed to break the Paviors line to make the score 0-10 after only a few minutes into the second half. Paviors picked themselves up and set about the task of getting on to the score sheet. Despite some creative play, excellent rucking and scrummaging, Paviors conceded another try from a well worked Scunthorpe backs move with 10 minutes to go. The Pav’s lads showed some maturity and pride as they continued to play some great rugby. Eventually Scunthorpe crossed the Paviors line for the final time, despite the lads defending their line with courage and heart. Scunthorpe converted, and the final whistle blew with the score 0-22.

Paviors retired to the changing rooms looking a bit dejected with the loss. However, everyone who took to the field played some fantastic rugby and really stepped up to the occasion. The lads should all be really proud of their performance, and they made Scunthorpe work for the win until the final whistle. It was a great game to watch, and the coaches are extremely proud of the lads and the way that they played. It was a real team performance.

After the game, Scunthorpe declared our player of the match to be Finn. Team captain, Morgan, presented Scunthorpe’s no6 and captain with our player of the match award. The “What Was That?!” went to Nick but was hotly contested by Fin’s attempt to kick the ball whilst being tackled.

Maybe the score didn’t reflect the impact Paviors had on the game, but Scunthorpe were deserving winners and we wish them luck in the next rounds of the Cup competition. Paviors proceed to the Plate competition, where we face West Bridgford at home on the 6th March.

Thanks to James Wright for writing this week's match report.