Spalding RFC’s under-16s stormed to an impressive 39-0 victory over Kesteven under-16s at the weekend.
Tom Birdseye led by example as Town faced the wind in the first half, stealing two line-outs in succession and a powerful forward drive took play up to five metres from the posts. Quick ball was then supplied and an accurate flat pass from James Thomas was taken at full speed by JJ Faulkner to open the scoring, allowing a simple conversion for Adam Castle.
A powerful tackle from Chris Emery set up try number two, with slick handling allowing Thomas to eventually dive over the line. This time, the conversion attempt fell just short.
Kesteven then piled forward, but the Spalding defence held firm with noticeable tackles from Luke Jones, Tristan Whinchup and Emery before Thomas started an attack from a scrum in the Spalding 22. Faulkner made good ground, supported by Mark Hendy and Jack Whadcock, who finished off the move for another unconverted try.
With Town’s teens now driving Kesteven back, they were forced to concede a series of penalties. Birdseye and Emery then combined to set up another situation and quick passing allowed Whadcock to cross for his second try, again unconverted.
With the wind behind them and a 22-0 lead in the bag ahead of the second half, it was expected that Spalding would pile on the points.
That didn’t quite materialise, but Town did add to their tally. The first score came when Whinchup made a powerful charge, well supported by Emery. Cairan Thompson then popped up in midfield and with a diagonal run, crossed for another unconverted try.
Mark Hendy then ghosted through the defence to score under the posts, with Castle adding the two points.
With Whinchup and Emery now creating havoc, Luke Jones and Will Jupp then took the ball forward and again, with quick possession, Hendy was on hand to score another unconverted try.
Overall it was a very encouraging run out for Town ahead of their their final Cup Group match next week, but more important was the way the team combined with every member making a significant contribution.
