U14s Rugby Tour of Ireland

30 students and 5 staff made the annual pilgrimage across the Irish Sea to take our brand of rugby to Dublin and Waterford. This was the seventeenth trip and one of the best that we have had. Our first games were against St. Mary’s College, Rathmines and we expected and got a warm reception. The AXV had all the early pressure but were unable to score. After the interval the sides exchanged tries and a final late score for the hosts gave them a 20-10 victory. The BXV struggled against a much bigger side and lost heavily.

The following day was culture day. Trips to Christchurch Cathedral, Dublinia (the history of Dublin) and Kilmanham Jail filled the day before an evening meal in the oldest inn in Dublin and an evening of ten pin bowling and lazer quest.

Wednesday morning found us in the Guinness Storehouse and the highest bar in Dublin. After lunch it was time to face the might of St. Michael’s College, Lansdowne. The AXV started badly and were soon 28-0 down, but fought back to 28-22 before conceding a couple of late scores to lose 40-22. Once again the BXV were outgunned and went down badly. After the game it was off to Waterford for a good nights rest?

Thursday morning was the highlight of the tour. A hands-on trip around the world famous crystal factory. The boys had a go at blowing the glass and cutting the patterns on the diamond wheel. Luke Housego was fortunate enough to be able to try to put a handle on to a crystal jug. He made a pretty good job of it too!

In the afternoon we played our final game against Waterford RFC and at last found our handling and running skills. We finally won the game 25-7. After presentations in the clubhouse it was off to Jack Meades Inn for an evening of Irish music and dance. A great way to end another great tour.

April 2008