U-14s represent county with pride and passion

and although Wicklow turned at half time in the lead the physical aggression and attrition took its toll and Nuneaton equalised with two minutes left. Wicklow hung on for a well-deserved draw, which proved to be a win under the rules as Wicklow had scored first. Full-time score: 5-5. Day one complete but the Wicklow players were shattered and had collected a fair few injuries with some players doubtful for day two. Day 3 – Sunday, April 30 Wicklow started the day in second place in the league table – one point behind the leaders Sheffield Blue.

First game v Liverpool St Helens, Kick-off: 1.45pm (delayed until 2.15pm).

Wicklow’s bruised and battered bodies somehow had healed overnight and after a morning swimming session the players were up for more games.

Having warmed up well the game was unfortunately delayed due to serious injury on one of the pitches. This worked against Wicklow who were just off the pace in this game

Full-time score: 0-15 to Liverpool St Helens.

There was a determination in the squad to make amends for the previous games loss and even though Wicklow only had 16 fit players, they produced a great fighting performance against a very big Southport team.

The tackling from a number of the Wicklow lads was a wonder to behold. Wicklow took the lead through a well worked try and again it was only in the dying moments that Southport breached their try line. However, again a great draw that goes down as a win as Wicklow scored first. Full-time score: 5-5. At this stage, Wicklow only had 11 fit players from the squad of 24 that had begun the competition and the coaches decided that the sensible thing to do was to pull out of theiur final fixture against the Sheffield White team.

Once again the lads did us all proud on day two and really showed the English and Scottish teams what Irish and Leinster Rugby is all about!

Wicklow came fourth in the table, but as far as the coaches and management are concerned we outshone all other teams for dedication/bravery and team spirit. This was a weekend where these brave lads grew up and they were fantastic ambassadors for their parents and their club and Irish rugby Day Four – Back to Wicklow The long trek home arriving back in Wicklow at 7pm a tired but very proud group from what was a great tour and a great experience for these young men.