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Heath U16s make impressive start to Division 1 campaign

Heath U16s make impressive start to Division 1 campaign

Russ Stobbs

Haywards Heath U16s began their Division 1 campaign on Sunday with a strong all-round team performance against league newcomers Brighton.

Heath started brightly, showing patience in possession and building pressure through a number of phases. Their positive approach was rewarded with three early tries, two of which were converted, providing a solid platform for the remainder of the match.

Despite the early setback, Brighton continued to compete throughout and looked dangerous whenever opportunities arose. However, Heath's organised defence and commitment in the tackle helped limit the home side's chances and maintained control of much of the possession and territory.

As the game progressed, injuries reduced Brighton's numbers on the field and, in the spirit of the game, Heath adjusted their own numbers to help ensure a balanced contest. Brighton's determination was rewarded late on with tries of their own, while Heath continued to play positive rugby until the final whistle, with the official score recorded as 55-5.

One of the most pleasing aspects of the performance for Heath was the contribution from across the squad. Ten different players crossed the whitewash, highlighting the team's collective effort and the balance between the forwards and backs in both attack and defence.

The match also saw debut appearances for Elwood Tai-Chidlow, Gabriel Ramsey-Williams, Tim Greenyer and Archie Thomson, with Archie marking the occasion by scoring a try.

Dominic Rolfe, who featured at both fly-half and full-back, was named Player of the Match by the opposition after an assured display that combined accurate goal-kicking with several impressive attacking runs.

Following the game, Heath's coaches praised the squad's communication, physical commitment, handling skills and work at the breakdown, all of which contributed to a successful start to the league season. One spectator described the performance as "full of confidence and character".

This opening victory provides an encouraging platform for Heath as they look ahead to the challenges of the Division 1 season.

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