On Sunday 8th of February Keswick U14 Falcons hosted Penrith Panthers U14 in the first county cup match. The county cup fixtures were put on hold in the start of the season as other county clubs were struggling with numbers and to allow for a fair chance for all it was decided to wait until later on when everyone was ready. We have now embraced the Falcons idea of meeting early to chat and braid/plait hair, a nice bit of time just chatting, thanks to those mums who helped ??.

Very unlike Keswick we were short-handed on this day with injuries, illness and other commitments, but the very supportive Penrith saw us choose to play 13 a side to allow the game to continue. We were also very fortunate (well the Girls were) to have one of the club’s referees oversee the game. Matt Page took to the centre after already officiating a game prior, but was very helpful for stepping in. Giving clear instructions and explanations along the way. Thank you Matt.

The young Falcons were riding the crest of a wave after several successful outings of late. The realisation of coming out strong and hard from the kick off has now been embedded into their play. The last couple of outings have seen a very similar outcome a try within the first minutes of the game. Quick turn overs and quicker hands for many of the strong runners to make ground. Ruby M at scrum half working overtime to recycle and get the team going forward at all opportunities. Communication in the team is now second to none, with Ruby (Scrum Half), Ellie (No.8 and pack lead), Maisie (Inside Centre and backs lead) and Rose (Captain – sadly missing on this occasion) all talking and decision making throughout the game.

The game was played in great spirit, as always with Penrith, with both teams showing a great respect for each other and the official. Keswick made the most of having quick hands and quick feet in both attack and defence. The defensive line work was some of the best I have seen all season (I can still hear “Ready Ready IN”) with Penrith not making much ground at all because of the line speed, some fair jackaling and counter rucks proving scores at most opportunities. The ball now moving passed a couple of players to the wider spaces where the back rows add extra hands has provided space for everyone. At times we made hard work of some of it, with players trying to score under the posts, when with the lead out wide would have done, but that would be the only criticism of a fantastic display

The final score was a well-deserved 62-10 win for the young Falcons, depleted in numbers at the time but definitely not in “heart and fighting spirit”. This young team holds some fantastic talent and on Sunday it was incredible to have the crowd watching the Senior Falcons also taking time to watch and cheer this fantastic group of young players. Even better when we found out 2 of the U18 Falcons (one being assistant coach Teagan) both bagging Hatricks for the Senior team (Abbie B on her debut in the senior team). This is now a clear pathway for the talent at Keswick Rugby Club and something to be admired.