Underage teams off to a flying start in 2018

WICKLOW RFC’s under-11 and under-12 boys got the new year off to a flying start with away matches on Sunday morning.

In bitterly cold but bright conditions the under-11s travelled to Lansdowne RFC while the under-12s made the journey across the border to County Kildare to take on Barnhall RFC.

A large squad of under-11s took to the back pitches of the Aviva Stadium to burn off their Christmas excesses against their Lansdowne counterparts.

Splitting into two teams, the boys showed little rustiness after their break.

Despite the icy cold conditions the forwards rucked with intensity providing a steady stream of ball to the backs.

They enjoyed their New Year game and there was very little between the sides. There were some great skills shown by both teams and they are already looking forward to a re-match when they can reciprocate Lansdowne’s warm welcome and hospitality.

Meanwhile, the under-12 boys got off to a slow start in numbing conditions in Barnhall early on Sunday morning.

However, despite the frost on the pitches they soon warmed up to rise to the challenge. Two teams from each club played two matches each and the Wicklow lads were presented with the robust contests they have come expect from Barnhall, the teams having met on many occasions over the years.

Both sides were evenly matched and the spectators were treated to some fine running rugby before retiring to the clubhouse for post match hospitality and to thaw out.