West Norfolk youngsters show resilience in defeat

West Norfolk Under-15s embarked on an unexpected journey after their original opponents cancelled late on Saturday.Holt agreed to host, setting the stage for a challenging encounter.From the first scrum, the home side established their forward dominance.Despite repelling wave after wave of strong and direct Holt attacks and dominating the early territorial battle, West Norfolk couldn’t breach Holt’s own well-organized defensive line.Holt’s aggressive defence generated a turnover to grant Holt the early lead.Despite Holt’s strong scrum, West Norfolk fought to establish themselves, achieving parity in the set piece and moving play back into Holt territory.On 15 minutes, a good lineout and a series of well-executed phases presented Samuel McKenzie with an opportunity to score in the corner. Christopher Maule’s stunning conversion from the touchline levelled the scores, bringing hope to West Norfolk. West Norfolk continued to toil, attempting to break Holt’s stern defence.Holt took a quickly-taken penalty, catching West Norfolk unawares. Unable to capitalise on their territorial dominance, West Norfolk trailed 12 -7 at the break.In the second half, Holt narrowed their attack, using heavy runners to batter West Norfolk’s defensive line around the breakdown. West Norfolk’s defence was valiant, standing firm against Holt’s relentless onslaught.Time and again, Holt launched powerful drives, each testing West Norfolk’s resolve. The defenders, facing overwhelming odds, held their ground with determination and grit. The sheer power and persistence of Holt’s play eventually took its toll. After numerous phases of strong, direct running, Holt finally breached the defence.Amid the onslaught, West Norfolk regrouped and rallied their spirits. They managed to push back into Holt’s territory with renewed vigour.As they seemed to be gaining momentum, Holt again capitalised from a quickly taken penalty, catching West Norfolk off guard.Ultimately, Holt’s power proved too great, and they emerged victorious 31-7.Yet, West Norfolk showed resilience and unity, promising growth and improvement on their journey ahead. This match, though a defeat, highlighted the team’s determination and potential.With continued effort and focus on key areas, West Norfolk will rise to meet future challenges along this season’s quest.West Norfolk: Logan Barrett, Joseph Bowen, Anthony Collings, Freddie Dickson, Jac Fox, Edward Frost, Charles Green, Jacob Hancock, Lewis Hart, Harry Hollands, Samuel McKenzie, Finley Mallett, Christopher Maule, Patrick Oughton-Tooke, Milan Prostikov, Rowan Ryder, Jack Skinner, Thomas Soar, Oliver Stevenson and Hayden Wesley James.