Bloxhams 1st XV progressed to the last four of the National Schools Plate with an ultimately convincing 39-3 win at Cheadle Hulme, but the final score does not reflect the true nature of the match.
Yesterday, Bloxham’s 1st XV rugby team progressed to the’last four’of the National Schools Plate with an ultimately convincing 39-3 win at Cheadle Hulme, but the final score does not reflect the true nature of the match.
Bloxham only led 13-3 at half time, having enjoyed the benefit of a strong wind in the first half, so the home side, playing in front of an excellent and supportive crowd, must still have been hopeful of their chances after the interval. In the event, a skilful try by Bloxham’s captain Toby S P 12 minutes into the second half proved crucial. As their opponents tired, Bloxham added further tries through Alfie B (2) and Henry H to extend their lead. Man of the match Alfie B and Dan E had already scored tries in the first half and Toby S P added a penalty and three conversions.
This was Bloxham’s fourth away cup fixture this season, with none at home, and their reward is another away tie, in the semi final against Old Swinford Hospital in March. One very’encouraging feature of the game was the fact that four members of the successful Colts A XV made an appearance in the game, confirming the reserves of talent in the school at the moment.
Report by Simon Batten