Sunday saw the OC U15s play their first league game in division 1, against a strong, well drilled Westcliff side who took the lead early on through some quick play, moving the ball across their backs and out to the wing. An under-strength OC side struggled to contain the speed of passing through Westcliff's deep attacking lines, and found it hard to break down their disciplined defence. With temporary injuries keeping two key players out for much of the first half, our lads were everywhere trying to keep the score as low as possible, entering half time at 35-0 down.

A Player of the Match performance from vice-captain Lennie Hough pushed the team on in the second period and after a further Westcliff score we managed to go over the line ourselves, Reggie Marshall superbly reading the pass from Westcliff to run in the first OC try of the match, which he then converted. Winger Teddy Monk later turned on the afterburners and outpaced six Westliff players to score OCs second, whilst the home team increased their lead.

We take away some real positives from a hard-fought match against a strong opposition, and will learn and grow as a team throughout the season. Onwards and upwards!

#LasB#