OKEHAMPTON U16s finally got their chance to go on tour, as they joined the U14s and U15s at the annual Bournemouth Junior Rugby Festival.

A hugely successful and enjoyable weekend was had by all involved as the players, along with loyal and hardworking parents and supporters made their maiden pilgrimage to this renowned festival.

Oke were up against five other teams at this age group and had to play each one in a league style format. First up was  a match against a strong Evesham side, Okes running out 10-0 winners with a solid all round performance. Tries came from centre Ben Mckenna-Smith and flanker Jack Ogbourne. At just ten minutes each way and with no kicks at goal, it was a fast paced format.

The second match saw them take on a bulky Bognor outfit. Oke improved and put in another fine all round team performance to emerge convincing 20-0 victors. Ben Mckenna-Smith and Jack Ogbourne (2) weer again among the try scorers along with full back Ryan Crosby.

The third match was against the home outfit in Bournemouth. A real battle ensued but Okes emerged victorious after a touch of class from Ben Mckenna-Smith won the match with a solitary score. Oke had to defend superbly to see out the win.

Against Welsh side Rhonda the maroon and ambers really hit their traps. A fabulous all round performance saw the Welsh well and truly conquered 35-0. Tries weer shared around, many super team efforts, but scored by Harry Cole (2), George Ogbourne (2), Greg Daniel (2) and one for Joseph Stratton.

The fifth match played out as a final as Okes met a Lydney side that was also unbeaten so far. The Okes gave away much in size but battled bravely and were beaten by the odd try in three. Okes score coming from Corey Holliday as they ultimately came up just short. The  whole squad played their part and the Oke boys did themselves and their club proud with their performance and sportsmanship. Huge thanks go out to all involved in the organisation

Oke U16s play a Fishermens Cup away to Totnes on Sunday.

Ivybridge U11s 30

Tavistock U11s 5

THERE were blustery but fortunately dry conditions at Kingsbridge this weekend for the U11s rugby tournament.

Tavistock started the pool stages with formidable opponents in the form of Ivybridge. Literally facing an uphill struggle on a steep pitch , the opposition quickly scored four tries. Tavistock tackled well but could not hold off a strong attacking side. Despite strong defence from Matthew, Dylan and Luke Tavistock were grateful to have the downhill advantage in the second half. Matthew picked up the initial kick off and powered down the wing to finally get a try for Tavistock.

Tavistock U11s 5

OPM U11s 0

IN the second match Tavistock had started to warm up and find their feet. Some superb tackling from James, Callum and Ryan meant they kept 0-0 by half time.

In the second half Tavistock continued to exert pressure, Luke was unlucky to be denied a try at the try line before James broke through for a try and the boys were left victorious.

Tavistock U11s 10

Honiton U11s 15

THE two sides had not met before. The downhill advantage allowed Honiton speed and momentum that carried them through for three tries in the first half.

Tavistock fought back hard with two quick tries from James in the second half but it was not enough as Honiton kept them out to win.

Tavistock U11s 0

Crediton U11s 5

MISSING Dylan and Luke the remaining team fought hard in their final match against Crediton. Better passing and some good tackling from Finn, Seb and Mack meant the score remained at 0-0 until the final minutes when Crediton nicked one over the line for the winning try.  

Barnstaple U9s 7 tries

Okehampton U9s 5 tries

OKEHAMPTON U9s arrived at Barnstaple with a new  found determination which led to some good tackles from the start. Barnstaple were first to score but this did not put Oke off and with stronger runs from the team Joe set up the first try scored by Roman. Oke fell off a few tackles which lead to Barnstaple scoring a few more tries. Phoebe, Lucy and Amy put in some big hits to get Oke back in the game. Barnstaple won but it did not knock Oke’s new found confidence.

Tries Roman 2, Lucy, Robbie and Phoebe.

Barnstaple U9s 8 tries

Okehampton U9s 9 tries

THE second game saw Oke a lot more focused with some strong runs from Will and Seb at the start to put Oke ahead — setting up tries for Con and Hector.

Every player worked hard to keep their opponents under pressure. Joe charged over the try line with foiur opposition players hanging off him to score his first try of the season.

This was a great team performance from the Oke, who worked hard and certainly deserved this win. Tries: Hector 3, Con 2, Roman, Lucy and Joe.