Thrilling Away Win for the u16s

A somewhat depleted squad travelled to Thornesians RUFC for an 11am kick off on Sunday 26th November. Despite missing key players and not having many on the bench, the boys took the field and signalled their intent with a try from the very first turn over. The ever-impressive Tehan driving over after a fluid move orchestrated by number 8 Leighton picking from the back of the scrum with Tosney (number 9) providing a beautiful dummy decoy. Although unconverted, this key moment galvanised the players and supporters into a positive mindset.

With barely 5 minutes on the clock, Selby were 10 points clear after solid pressure from the forwards driving opposition back and several big tackles by prop Massam allowing Janus to score the first of his hat trick. Skipper Kealey made a valiant effort with the conversion, but the angle was too tight.

Thorne regrouped and came out fighting, using their quick backs to open up the Selby defence to score under the posts. This was converted by the Thorne number 10. This led to a period of even stevens, with both teams displaying good skills until Janus broke several tackles to score his second. Once again the conversion was agonisingly short.

Inevitably the lack of subs led to the game slowing in the final ten minutes of the half, allowing Thorne to score two quick unconverted tries to put the home side up 17-15 at half time.

A rested Selby dominated the second half, with each player committing to great tackling. Time and time again hooker Todd, prop Howarth and inside centre Ellam halted the Thorne forwards in their tracks, not allowing any distance to be gained. A quick thinking Janus completed an excellent day’s work by picking the ball out of the scrum and scoring his third. Captain Kealey dispatching the conversion with ease.
Despite losing Ellam for a high tackle, Selby maintained pressure, with Kealey leading by example in both kicking and tackling. Full back Sibley completed the win with tenacious run into the corner after some good ball handling from the team. Noting the fine margins of the score board, he proceeded to run the ball under the posts for a Kealey conversion. A late try by Thorne (unconverted) was too little too late and the score finished 22-29 to Selby.

All in all, a good day away from home with many star performances but our Captain Kealey was rightly the recipient of the man of the match.

A special mention to Thornesians RUFC who were very welcoming to both squad and spectators.