On a surprisingly mild day, Hampstead sent 2 teams to the biggest fixture of the year the Middlesex County festival, which was hosted by Ealing.

After a productive and well attended training session the day before the boys were keen to get out on the pitches and get stuck in. The competition was a series of 5 matches focusing on having fun and teamwork.

Having learnt from previous festivals the coaches we sure to warm the teams up thoroughly to prepare them for tackling right from the start.

Each opposition had their own challenges, but the boys adapted well with impressive teamwork, passing the ball well and working together to move down the pitch. There were some excellent runs and even a couple of dumbs to confuse their opponents.

Some parents shuddered at the fearless tackles attempted in a bid to deprive the opposition of a try. It was pleasing to see all the hard work and practice that has been put in during training really coming together for what was the most committed display of the year.

As always there was a focus on sportsmanship with the end of each game cheering the opposition and both teams shaking hands.

When all matches were played everyone was suitably tired but pleased with the way the morning had gone. Thank you to Ealing, Middlesex, the coaches, and the parents. Finally, well done to every single player they really raised their games for this festival and deserve to be proud of how they played.

If you are interested in trying rugby please email juniors@hampsteadrugbyclub.co.uk.