Heath Mini Rugby experience all-round success at West Sussex Festival

Heath Under 8 A squad topped their pool winning all matches beating Horsham B 3:2, Hove C 5:2, Midhurst A 6:2 and Shoreham 4:2 - results which took the squad through to the Championship Final. The U8s played excellent flowing rugby and outclassed nearly all of their opponents on the day however they lost to Hove A in the final by 3 tries to 4 in a very close match. It was a shame that a couple of decisions went against them in a tightly fought final.

Heath B had a strong performance in their pool coming runners up beating Horsham A 6:3, Hove B 5:4, Midhurst B 6:4 and only losing one game to Hove A 6:1. Unfortunately they lost out in the bowl final to Hove C 3:2 having put in a really strong performance on the day. A great day of rugby for the Under 8s showing that they have come a long way this season and are closing in on their local rivals.

Heath Under 9s squad won all four pool games winning 6:1 against Hove B, 3:1 against Horsham B, 6:0 against Midhurst B and 4:0 against the hosts, Horsham A. This took the Under 9s through to the championship final where they lost to a strong Hove A side 3:2, in a very close and physical game. Heath U9s demonstrated outstanding defence with relentless tackling, while in attack they worked hard for each other to keep the ball alive and it was noticeable how much their support play has improved this season as they have learnt to work together as a team. Excellent sportsmanship was on display from this Under 9s squad that is growing in confidence and ability and can look forward to good things to come.

Heath Under 11s retain West Sussex title

The Under 11s began the defence of their sussex title in some style. Having beaten Horsham 8 tries to nil and Shoreham 9 tries to nil with some scintillating free flowing rugby, the boys were then drawn against a Hove A team who had given Heath a stern test earlier in the season. Heath U11s were motivated for this encounter and did not disappoint playing with a confidence and skill that could not be matched by the opposition. The team stuck to the game plan and the ball was quickly played down the back line resulting in a great win for Heath 8 tries to nil.

On the other side of the draw the Heath U11 B team were having a fantastic morning topping their pool to set up their own semi-final against the same Hove side who had finished 2nd in Pool A. With the A team comfortably winning their semi final all focus was on supporting the B squad. Alas, It was not to be for them with a narrow loss setting up a return game for Heath A against Hove A in the final. The skill and flair demonstrated by Heath in the final was second to none with the Heath U11 A squad running out victorious by 8 tries to nil.

Having not conceded a try all day Heath U11s now head to the Sussex finals in three weeks time full of confidence and hopeful of a fourth Sussex title in a row!

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