Match Report: R15/R16 Senior Rugby – Cardiff Schools U16 Plate Semi-Final

St John’s vs St Illtyd’s | Friday, 14th February

A depleted St John’s squad took to the field for the semi-final of the Cardiff Schools U16 Plate, missing key players through injury and forcing several to play out of position. Despite the challenges, the team showed grit and determination in a game that was truly a cliché of two halves.

St Illtyd’s dominated the opening exchanges, capitalising on their cohesion and structure to run in five tries before the halftime whistle. St John’s struggled to find their rhythm early on, but there were flashes of promise as they battled to stay in the contest.

However, the second half told a different story. St John’s emerged with renewed energy, playing dynamic, free-flowing rugby and mounting an impressive fightback. Tries from Thomas T, Max E, Jacob H, and Eric J put pressure on St Illtyd’s, demonstrating the attacking potential of this developing side. Though the deficit proved too much to overturn, the team can take pride in their second-half performance, ultimately finishing with a 41-24 scoreline.

Several players put in standout performances, but Man of the Match went to Pranay S, who adapted superbly to an unfamiliar role at inside centre, proving instrumental in both attack and defence.

While the result wasn’t in St John’s favour, the squad is clearly developing into a cohesive unit, and their exciting, attacking brand of rugby bodes well for the future. We wish St Illtyd’s the best of luck in the final and look forward to more fixtures for this promising team.

Mr Evans