Our roving reporter, Alex Froude, fresh from watching the Lichfield U13s:

Lichfield turned up to today’s game against an in form host Stratford, in high spirits after a much-improved performance against Bromsgrove last week.

The game started with the Lichfield boys choosing to receive the starting kick off, which was an excellent tactical decision as it led to a sustained period of solid attacking rugby in the opponents final third.

Phase after phase of controlled possession by Lichfield’s mighty forwards, followed by a superb line break made by Addison and with support available on all sides the opening try was scored.

Buoyed by this fantastic start and a consistent defense the forwards then broke for the second time in the game, leading to a great finish by Joe Wilkes.

This was then followed by some dominate scrummaging from the Lichfield pack consolidating territory and the game looked to be slipping away from Stratford.

However, that was not to be and after a period of pressure of their own Stratford gained a try back right in the nearside corner after a penalty advantage; despite this, Lichfield U13s stayed levelheaded and with an excellent restart and chase managed to capitalise on a disorganized Stafford defensive line resulting in Addison crossing the line over for his 3rd try of the game.

At half time the score stood at 5-20 to the visitors.

To allow all travelling players the opportunity to play, some sweeping substitutions were made and while initially adding an early score, a revitalized Stratford began to apply concerted pressure which frustrated the Lichfield attack and prevented them clearing their rucks.

The second half was more disjointed with the referee keen to instill his vision of how the game should be played.

Stratford came back strongly, however, with the game in the balance, both Addison and Evan beat several players (Evan carried at least 4 over the line with him) to score two wonderful tries.

There seemed more controversy when Lichfield were denied a try, deemed to be “held up” by the referee. Stratford again came back with 2 additional tries at the end.

All in all, a fantastic morning of rugby with 6 tries scored by Lichfield U13s and 5 for Stratford.

Final score:
Stratford Upon Avon U13 25-30 Lichfield U13