Junior World Cup - York

The squad was split into two teams, Tonga and Wales using the fair format of having two "A" teams rather than an A and B set up.

With 12 teams taking part in the world cup the format was 4 pools of 3 teams playing two 20 minute games in the pool. After some close and long matches Wales and Tonga came out victorious and it looked like we would be against each other in the semi final. However the York organisation took the sensible decision to split the two Ripon Teams up, why - because we would be facing two Harrogate teams......!
Written by Craig Watson Under 8's Coach & Parent..........

The boys were revved up and raring to go, in the Tonga match we took an early advantage quickly taking the turnover after successfully out tagging the Harrogate team, then running on to score the first try. It turned out to be a high scoring match but when the whistle was blown......Tonga (Ripon) came out on top !! The boys ran over to the other semi final just in time to help celebrate another Ripon win.

So the scene was set - A Wales versus Tonga World Cup Final. The parents were split up.......each taking a touchline to cheer from. The boys from Tonga put bibs on and lined up for a fantastic final. Early on we saw two turnovers from some determined tagging from both sides and then the scoring started. Some brilliant well supported runs resulted in the perfect final score ........

Wales 4
Tonga 4.

The boys took the cheers from very proud parents and very proud coaches who commented on the team work, support play and determination. It was always going to be hard to single out one player when everyone deserved the accolade. However one player stood out for putting together his most committed performance and showing determination in his running - stand up Jack.McNeil