Clean sweep for Valley Youth on Sat 16th Nov
By Bob Beatty, 18th Nov 2013
William Trimbles youth section recorded a clean sweep on Saturday, rich reward for the dedication of the affable youth convenor and his team of coaches.
U19s—First up was the senior side accounting for visitors Virginia by 24 points to 10.The victory was based on a very solid forward display with Captain Smyton and his ‘grunt brigade’ holding all the aces as the game unfolded. Wing forward Alec McKeown was the outstanding operator helping himself to a brace of tries in his non- stop performance. Second row forward McKenna epitomised all that is good in youth rugby matching McKeown step by step.
Irwin crossed for a good try and the skipper himself Smyton wrapped up proceedings adding the final try. Trotter added two conversions while the visitors added two tries of their own as they tried to stay in touch.
U17S—The U17s made the long trip to Ophir but it was all worthwhile as they recorded a fine 19 points to 5 victory over their hosts. Once again it was based on a strong forward performance with the back row,Porter , McSorley and Hetherington outstanding. Despite early territorial dominance it was to be Ophir who struck first, a 60 metre break was rewarded with a touchdown in the corner. It went unconverted and was to be their only score. Clogher soon got their ‘pick and drive’ game going to great effect. Whiteside made good ground before offloading to McSorley. Three defenders were brushed aside as he stormed over at the posts for the Valleys opening try which Beacom goaled.
Hetherington added the next after a powerful 30 metre run, this one went unconverted . The offloading continued and after a good Porter break Garrity grabbed the third and all important try. Beacom added the extras to round of the scoring.
U13S—Richie Haires ‘babes’ also made the trip to Ophir. The journey must have taken its toll as they watched Ophir run through them to take an early 14 point lead. But cometh the hour cometh the man our should that be the boy. Skipper Robbie Mills was having none of it and proceeded to inspire his side to a comfortable 55 points to 14 victory. He crossed twice as did McMaster and Callaghan. Hooker Cullinan and prop Crawford added one apiece with Mills notching up seven conversions.
