Lewes juniors revel in rugby return

The format offered three round robin matches of 15-minute halves for teams of 13 and two-place play-offs for final positions. With strong numbers Lewes fielded two sides playing a half each on strict rotation to maximise the boys’ enjoyment and game time under R4R, a version of touch rugby.

First was a highly competitive game versus Beckenham to blow away cobwebs. In a fast and agile game against physical opposition, Lewes were 10-8 victors, successfully blending probing forwards runs with expansive backs moves. There were a couple of moments of champagne rugby.

A sizeable Sidcup side had just outmuscled strong opponents in East Grinstead. But unflustered Lewes executed an efficient game plan that Sidcup failed to unpick. Although deserved 9-6 winners, Sidcup failed to capitalise on their strengths and were forced into errors.

The last round robin match was a spirited game played with speed and flair.

East Grinstead’s dynamic running saw them win 10-6 putting Lewes into the third-place play-off against Beckenham.

The boys weren’t able to reproduce their previous intensity to overturn a first half deficit. But a final flourish saw Lewes score one of their tries of the tournament. Beckenham won 8-7.

Lewes coaches said it was a great day of learning and huge satisfaction for the squad.