Pocklington School's U14 Rugby Sevens team had a fantastic tournament at the Charlton 7s recently, when after the group stages they secured a place in the final to win the Plate Competition.

After travelling to Durham School for the tournament, the team had to quickly get into a game mind-set ready for the tough opening fixture against RGS Newcastle in which they were resilient and hardworking throughout, before running them close in a narrow defeat. However, after ever-growing improved performances in the group stages against Durham, Bradford and Ashville, the boys qualified for the Plate Competition.

The Pocklington team drew Durham once again in the semi-final and the performance was sensational. The Durham group match was perhaps the most disappointing performance of the day, yet the second face-off saw the boys dig deep to show improvement and some of the technical skills on display were magnificent. Playing with width and pace they worked hard to compete from every kick off and challenged well at every break down, turning the ball back into their favour multiple times. They won the game convincingly 38-7 and drew Woodhouse Grove in the final. 

Against Woodhouse, two well-drilled and competitive teams battled each other in a highly fought game of rugby. Tackles were strong and both teams showed determination and grit in order to outplay their opponents but in the end, Pocklington’s teamwork and commitment shone through as they ran out 24-5 winners.

After the game, Mr Lambert, teacher of Games, Sport and PE and coach of the U14 squad commented: “Every member of the Pocklington team can be proud of their achievements. This was a deserved victory in the Plate Competition and a great standard to set as they travel to London to the National Sevens Tournament at the end of the month!”