
Goole RUFC under 10s travelled to take part in the Doncaster Festival in what turned out to be fantastic weather on Sunday.
Goole had drawn an incredibly tough pool, with high quality local rivals Selby and Hull Ionians plus the unknown Sleaford as opposition.
The first match rekindled the traditional Goole Selby rivalry. Selby played attractive passing rugby and the Goole defence was resolute as always. In a back and forward game, both sides were cagey and eventually a 1- 1 draw was the result, a great smash and grab try for Josh Bland Aihe getting Goole on the scoresheet.
The second game was Hull Ionians, always an incredibly tough opposition. Once again both sides battled but neither defence was breached, once again another draw for Goole.
The final pool game saw Goole versus Sleaford and Goole came to life. Immense tackling led to numerous turnovers and the scores began to build up. By the end of the game Evan Blyth, George Ward, Harry Clark and John Slater had scored a try apiece and Nathan Earl crossed twice. Sleaford scored once, leaving Goole with a decisive 6-1 win. This saw Goole in to the semi finals and Sheffield were the opposition.
Once again Goole were in devastating form and the physicality and fitness began to show as Sheffield were overwhelmed. Will Grimbleby and Josh Blandboth scored before the ref cut the second half short, concerned for the safety of the Sheffield players who were starting to fall like flies. This set Goole up for a final against Selby.
Goole were brimming with confidence and came out of the blocks at full speed. Selby were rocked by the intensity of the attacking runs, with Evan and Harry crashing in to the Selby defence continually and then defending immensely. Will Grimbelby and Kyle Turner won the tackle of the day competition with scything tackles to prevent Selby from advancing, regardless of their expansive game. Gooles team remained composed and kept crashing in to the green shirts of Selby, the momentum was with Goole and it appeared that Selby had capitulated. Josh, Evan and Harry scored one apiece to win the final 3-0.
A special mention to the whole squad and the parents who came on Sunday. An immense performance in tough conditions against excellent opposition has landed more silverware in the cabinet for the Goole boys. The effort and commitment of parents and players is worth it on days like today – a credit to everyone involved and a pleasure to be involved with. More tournaments to come!
Roger Blyth - Under 10s Coach
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