Under 17s
Maidstone Under 17’s Remain Undefeated
Maidstone under 17’s faced local rivals Ashford in their fourth league game of the season. Both teams know each other well and on this occasion ‘Ashford were overpowered by an on form Maidstone side’ to win the game 46 – 12.
Maidstone scored early in the game with some good driving work from the forwards which produced quick ball for the backs. The ball was moved down the line for the winger Sam Sayers to go outside his opposite man to touch down in the corner. The second try was scored by prop Sam Weston who proved throughout the day what strong, straight running can do. The pattern of forward domination continued throughout the game. Number 8, Ryan Cooper, scored next and was a constant threat picking up from the scrum and bursting through the defence.
In the second half the backs started to find their rhythm and Ashford found it difficult to match the strong running. Jason Smith, inside centre, cut through the defence line with some great running lines. James Corbyn showed his pace on the wing to run in from the half way line. The forwards and backs continued to produce quick ball and Oliver Newton, centre, scored after a powerful run. The conversion from Sam Ellis took the score to 32 -12. Maidstone played some very mature rugby with the lineout jumping from Sam Leatham – a new addition to the club – providing a great source of quick ball. The backs now started to move the ball well through the hands and finished the game off with two well worked tries from the wingers Sam Sayers and Fraser Clucas. Sam Ellis converted the last two tries to take his total to 11 points. Final score 46 – 12.
A great performance from the boys showing all round skills and our strength in depth. All 22 players played a part in the game and the team spirit showed by the squad is a major factor in their results. Special mention to Sam Weston who was selected as man of the match by the Ashford coaches for his ability to always break the gain line and recycle quick ball for the team to use. The game was played in good spirit, as always with Ashford, and we look forward to building on this performance for the rest of the season.