Hayden scores debut try for U15s

In the cool, crisp air of Remembrance Day weekend, two red kites circled silently above, casting watchful shadows over the field.As the Crusaders and West Norfolk U15s prepared for a spirited and respectful contest, the presence of these graceful birds felt fitting, a quiet symbol of unity and respect.With the Crusaders short on players, West Norfolk’s Rhys Allerton, Patrick Oughton-Tooke, and Felix Slingsby joined their ranks, embodying the day’s spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship.The game began with a flash of brilliance as man of the match Samuel McKenzie finished off a fluid move in the right corner, putting West Norfolk ahead 5-0.The early exchanges were competitive, with both teams displaying a strong, physical game.Shortly after, Freddie Dickson showcased his own touch of magic, chipping ahead, gathering his kick, and crossing the line in the corner to double West Norfolk’s lead to 10-0.The Crusaders fought back with admirable spirit bringing the score to 10-5. Despite this response, West Norfolk took control of the game, showcasing some of their best running play of the season, though a few final passes went astray, keeping the game tight at halftime. In the second half, West Norfolk tightened their grip. Jacob Hancock broke through the defence to score under the posts, with Christopher Maule adding the conversion to make it 17-5.Not long after, a well-timed and expertly executed cross-field kick from Logan Barrett landed perfectly for McKenzie, who sprinted past two defenders to score again, with Maule adding the extras to extend the lead to 24-5.The Crusaders, undeterred, continued to press and were rewarded with a try under the posts narrowing the gap to 24-10. West Norfolk’s strength in the scrum and unyielding defence continued to apply pressure, and a loose Crusaders kick allowed Hayden Wesley-James to pounce, scoring his debut try for West Norfolk in the corner, sealing the game at 29-10.Men of the match, Oliver Stevenson and McKenzie, delivered standout moments that accentuated the spirited, disciplined team play defining this memorable game, played in the true spirit of unity and respect.West Norfolk: Rhys Allerton, Logan Barrett (captain), Joseph Bowen, Anthony Collings, Freddie Dickson, Charles Green, Jacob Hancock, Lewis Hart, Samuel McKenzie, Finley Mallett, Christopher Maule, Fletcher Milnes, Patrick Oughton-Tooke, Milan Prostikov, Rowan Ryder, Jack Skinner, Felix Slingsby, Tom Soar, Oliver Stevenson & Hayden Wesley-James.