U17s bounce back with good away win.

HEATH U17s. A much-improved Heath put on a first half performance that killed the game off. Leading 28 to nil at half time with tries from Luke Matthews, Kofi Brobbey and Ferg’ Marsden. Sam Pollard converting two and taking 3 penalties. The forwards, led by the impressive Stephan Hare, didn't take a backwards step and won the game upfront, allowing Peter Birkett to marshal the game from scrum half. The first try of the encounter came from Luke Matthews and it resulted from good handling in the backs, with Jack Sheldrake running straight and off loading to Matthews to score out wide. Pollard converting. The second try came after Pollard had pinned Middlesborough back in their own 22, something he did throughout the first half to great effect, allowing the forwards to again win turn over ball and putting a few phases of rugby together before Ferg’ Marsden crashed over under the posts. Pollard adding the extras. Then the final try of the half saw the ball moved through the back line, where Sam Talbot put Kofi Brobbey in for another great team score. This time, Pollard was unable to take the points. Hetherington’s game plan had worked fantastically well. The forwards had won every battle and this allowed the team to play some expansive rugby. They thoroughly deserved their half time lead. The second half saw Middlesborough with the wind at their backs playing down the slope and kicking out of their own 22, to relieve Heath’s pressure. Lewis McKenzie, Heath’s man of the match, almost single handedly defended against this kicking game, relentlessly taking the ball back to them. Tom Kilner, Lewis Foxton and Brad Davies making some exceptional tackles. However, the hosts scored two late tries and Heath wasted a number of opportunities, with over elaborate plays. They didn't add to their score, but the game was already won through a fine first half performance and some resolute defence in the second half. Tries Kofi Brobbey Luke Matthews Ferg’ Marsden Conversion Pollard x 2 Penalties Pollard x 3