Keswick U14s arrived on the back of two great performances in recent friendly games for their next competitive fixture in the Cumbria County Cup league. The side faced table toppers Aspatria and the physicality from both teams matched what would be expected for a game against the Black Reds.
The young Kestrels were unfortunate to concede 2 early tries but the opposition were made to work for them. The defence lead by Forward of the Match George Johnson fought hard. The tackling was superb from every player and every breakdown keenly contested. This lead to turnovers but getting over the halfway line proved difficult. Ultimately a lack of field position allowed Aspatria multiple opportunities to attack and score their points.
They would have another try before halftime a turnover in Keswick's 22 metre quickly moved out into the wide channel before a dive over the line. Halftime came with Keswick 3 tries down and a lot of work to do.

The second half started with the home side finally getting some minutes inside the opposition 22. The tough carrying of Louis Ohan, Noah Gruner and James Hattrick provided the front foot ball required to release Back of the Match Jacob Palmer. Palmer found full back Thomas Downie who continued his recent try scoring form touching down in the corner.
Keswick continued to pressure, the scrum was solid and James Cartmells pin point line out throws allowed opportunities to attack. Captain Angus Quincey was unlucky to not find a team mates hand after a good break. Jacob Palmer continued to threaten with both ball in hand and clever kicking. His long penalty kicks out of hand allowed Keswick the field position to construct these attacks.
It wasn't to be Keswick's day however as they were unable to add to the score.
Aspatria who were strong, smart and aggressive scored 2 further tries pushing their score to 31.

As in previous weeks the attitude of the all players was fantastic. Despite the scoreline this was still a step forward for the lads and the lessons learned will be valuable as we approach the second half of the season. At no point did their heads drop and they fought hard for the whole of the game. We look forward to the next challenge. UTK ???

FOTM - George Johnson
BOTM - Jacob Palmer
OPOTM- George Johnson

Training: Monday and Thursday 17:30- 19:00.
New players welcome.

Photo credit: Ben Challis