Stowmarket Rugby Club's U16s secured their third consecutive victory on the road this Sunday, battling to a hard-fought 26-21 win against a resilient Norwich RUFC side.

​The Stowmarket boys went into the match missing a few key members of the squad, making this victory even more commendable. In a highly competitive and physically demanding encounter, the team showed superb character to overcome a significant challenge, showcasing both their attacking flair and defensive resolve.​

Try Scorers and the Moment of the Match

​Stowmarket’s four tries came from Noah, and a brace from Will. However, the highlight of the day was a spectacular, team-worked try finished by Caillen.​
The play began deep inside Stowmarket’s own try line and was a masterclass in counter-attacking rugby. The ball was beautifully worked through the hands of the backline, culminating in it landing with Caillen, who burst down the wing like lightning, leaving everyone in his wake to score a phenomenal try under the posts.​

Norwich, spurred on by their reliable fly-half, kept the pressure on throughout the game. Their number 10 possessed an unbelievable right foot, slotting home three long-range penalties that ensured the scoreline remained incredibly tight and tense right up to the final whistle.​

Man of the Match Performances​The game was marked by several outstanding individual displays:
• ​Stowmarket Coaches’ Man of the Match: This award went to Ty for an absolutely unbelievable performance at full-back. In only his third ever match, he slotted into the position like a 10-year professional. Nothing got past him, and his running out from the danger area was sublime.
• ​Norwich Coaches’ Man of the Match: The opposition coaches recognised the brilliant efforts of Albert at Centre. He put in an incredible all-round performance, excelling in both attack and defence and proving to be a formidable presence in the midfield.
• ​Special Mentions: It was an awesome full debut for Charlie W with a commanding performance, and another strong, influential game for Edward. Finally, the team celebrated Harry, who delivered a commanding performance at Flanker and thankfully managed a full 70 minutes unhurt—a massive achievement given the intensity of the contest.​

Dedicated to an Inspirational Coach
​The tough nature of the contest meant tempers occasionally reached boiling point, but all animosity was left on the pitch, and both teams earned mutual respect. The victory keeps Stowmarket's incredible away run alive, and the boys dedicated this hard-won effort to their coach.​

The entire squad wishes to dedicate their victory to Coach Gav Rudland. Gav has made the decision to take a step back from coaching to focus on his playing career for the Stowmarket 1st XV. He has been inspirational for the boys and will be sorely missed by the U16s team.

The victory keeps Stowmarket's incredible away run alive and is a testament to the dedication and spirit of the entire U16 squad.