GLOUCESTERSHIRE U18 XV      v      SOMERSET U18 XV

36                                                                                                             10

For the third year running Gloucestershire U18’s have finished their Divisional programme unbeaten, following the comfortable defeat of Somerset at Cleve RFC on Tuesday November 14^th.

Able to field their strongest squad Gloucestershire opened the scoring in the fifth minute when centre Luke Morgan went over from a good three-quarter move.  Rather against the run of play Somerset drew level 5-5 with their first meaningful attack.  Gloucestershire regained composure and control and retook the lead with a try from Harrison Tovey, converted by Kristian Cook, and went further in front when Henry Trinder showed real pace to score a try, again converted by Kristian Cook.  The 19-5 half time scoreline could have been even bigger had Gloucestershire been able to ground the ball when they crossed  their opponents line on two further occasions.

Several changes were made at and just after half-time which disrupted play a little but Gloucestershire scored another try, this time from full-back Stefan Hawley, before Kristian Cook added a try to his previous conversions, Elliott Read added the extra two points for a 31-5 lead.  The final Gloucestershire try came from Josh Bennett and Somerset scored a late consolation try to round off the 36-10 scoreline.

In the three Divisional games Gloucestershire have shown their strength in depth by using 33 players in the campaign and they are hopeful of a good representation in the Divisional Trial that takes place on Sunday December 3^rd at the Clifton College, Beggar Bush Lane complex.

The U18 group committee would like to thank all the clubs, colleges and schools for their support throughout the season in providing players and making facilities available for trials and matches.  The squad was well prepared by coaches Dave Pointon and Andy Phillips and their physical well being was attended to by physio Mike Young.

The following played against Somerset