The LGS Under 13s, coached by Mr Dunlop and Mr Laird and led by Matthew Laird, had a fantastic first season of full 15-a-side rugby, with over 15 wins across the season and only a handful of losses.
The team won all their games against their fellow North West opposition, including Foyle College, Coleraine GS and Dalriada. The team also lost out by only one score to top opposition including Ballymena Academy and Bangor GS. The side scored over 60 tries, through 15 different try scorers whilst also keeping the opposition to one score or less in 15 of their matches.
Team captain, Matthew Laird ended the season as top try scorer, with 18 tries. Matthew began the season as a dynamic and abrasive number 8, but was moved to outside centre allowing him to use his full array of skills and add a layer to the team’s attack with smart running lines. He was partnered in the centre with primary place kicker Ewan Brennan, who was the team’s top point scorer, with over 120 points. Ewan scored a number of tries of his own, including a length of the pitch intercept against Ballyclare HS. This all contributed to him being awarded the ‘Most Valuable Player’ award. The pair formed a terrific partnership outside fly-half Charlie Blair, running plays and lines well beyond their years. Blair wasn’t one to take a backward step in defence either, not shying away from the big hits.
In the backfield, Calum Meighan impressed. Although assured under the high-ball and dangerous on the counter attack, it was with his last ditch defensive tackles that he often caught the eye, putting in a number of try saving tackles. Toby Baird, Adam McGerty, Finlay Scott and Charlie Kingsbury shared the responsibilities on the wings, always putting their best foot forward when called upon. At scrum half, Caleb Mackenzie provided the quick ball required to keep the team moving, showing an array of skills both out of hand and with the boot. When called upon, Jack Hood kept the tempo high and passes sharp.
Up front, blindside flanker Rory Dall provided the go forward ball, growing as a player throughout the season. This saw him rewarded with the ‘Most Improved Player’ award. Number 8 Joseph Murphy combined skill and power in attack alongside second row Rowan Lilley who brought determination and brawn. Openside Matthew Rhodes, loosehead Loran Simpson and hooker William McLaughlin became key players in the team with their workrate and commitment. Rhodes in particular putting in tackle after tackle and securing numerous breakdowns each game.
Lewis Alcock and Tighthead Alfie Boyd made up the regular front five, both playing key roles in the team. Alcock provided accurate darts at the line-out and skill around the park, whilst Boyd continually kept the team moving forward with trademark pick and drives around the fringes of the breakdown. Thomas Moore, Thomas Ferguson and Jack Wilders provided strong cover up front, making an impact in every match.
Next season the team will hope to see more regular performances from Alex Martin, Michael Butcher, Harry Butcher and Harry Pollock, players who never looked out of place and often added extra spark when available.
Overall, the boys can be massively proud of their work rate and performances this year. The team were awarded the ‘LGS Team of Year’ award which goes to show the potential the side possesses going forward.
