A much-improved Old Coops U15s took on a spirited Southend side at home on Sunday, looking to put to bed the previous week’s defeat. Since stepping into the first division this season, our boys are pitting themselves against the best the county has to offer, and this match showed they deserved their place.

The first half was a game of back and forth, with much of the battle taking place in the middle of the pitch. Both teams made some terrific, tough tackles with intense rucking leading to some turnovers on each side. OCs saw two tries from winger Teddy Monk disallowed for stepping into touch, the only real clear chances in the half meaning both teams went into the break without a point on the board.

Southend came out quickly in the second half scoring and then converting a quick move breaking the OC defensive line. Debutant Divine Akingbola showed some promise with great ball carrying, often taking three of four of the opposition with him, and OC then stepped up a gear with a great passing move out of a breakdown and through the backs, out to winger Jayden Wilkinson to run in a fine try in front of the posts, leaving an easy conversion for Reggie Marshall.
With the game tied at 7-7, the remainder of the second half was a tense affair with breakdowns and turnovers on both sides, and then towards the end of the match the Southend team managed to go over the line again to finish a well fought competition 12-7.

Reggie Marshall took home the player of the match trophy as his passing drove our team onwards all day.

#LasB#