Rugby Journeys

Schools Cup National Semi-Final

by Elliot H, Year 13

Last week, we had an important rugby match against Richard Huish in the Bowl Schools Cup National semi-final. We knew it was going to be a tough game, as Richard Huish had a strong record.

The 1st XV travelled to Taunton for the game, and after a good warm-up, we started the match in good spirits. George Musselwhite scored the first try in the corner, which was a great achievement for him as a year 11 student in the starting lineup. However, Richard Huish responded with relentless pressure in our half, and they quickly capitalised on our mistakes. They took the lead into halftime with a score of 29-10. Despite this, our set piece was brilliant throughout the game, with scrummaging penalties and strong lineout steals keeping us in the game. The second half was a real battle, with both sides struggling to make a breakthrough. We managed to score a penalty try and get one of their academy players a yellow card, but unfortunately, the opposition kept applying pressure to our line. Their number 9 continued to pick and go in attack, putting us on the back foot. Towards the end of the game, Jake Wood managed to score a try, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.

We won the second half, but the game ended with a score of 36-26 in favour of Richard Huish. It was an emotional end for the Upper Sixth players, as it was the end of their over 10-year rugby journey together. Despite this, everyone deserves praise for their commitment to the PGS shirt over the years. We made some incredible memories, and reaching two semi-finals in two years is an achievement to be proud of. It was a pleasure to be coached by Mr Venter over the last year, and we wish him and Mr Copeland all the best in future years.

Warwick 7s Report:

The 7s season has officially kicked off, with teams eagerly preparing for two major 7s events, including the highly anticipated Warwick 7s. Leading up to the tournament, poor weather caused some complications, resulting in the unfortunate cancellation of the U15 competition due to flooded grounds at Warwick School. Despite these challenges, the tournament proceeded with 500 boys from 3 different age groups came together to compete on the day.

The U13s put on an impressive display, securing narrow one-try victories and ultimately claiming the shield thanks to their strong points difference. The U14s, in their first 7s tournament of the season, also showed great progress and determination, landing second place in their group. However, their cup run was cut short by the formidable Sedbergh U14 side in the quarter-finals.

The U16s faced tough competition in their group, ultimately finishing third and earning a spot in the Shield. In an intense quarter-final match, which went into extra time, PGS put up a strong defense but ultimately fell short due to an unforced error. Despite this, all PGS players made the school proud and it was a successful weekend at Warwick 7s. A special thanks to the supportive parents who made the trip and to all the PGS staff involved