First up was a game against Market Harborough, the reigning Leicestershire champions, on Saturday morning. This was a really tough test for the boys, but they came out victorious with a final score of 31-15, and more importantly every player enjoyed game time. Many thanks to all at Market Harborough for their hospitality.

The afternoon saw us watch Sale Sharks play Northampton Saints; Sale put on a brave display but ran out second best to a strong Saints team.

Sunday morning consisted of an early wake up call, to get over to Stratford Upon Avon in time to take part in their annual Rugby 10s tournament, a first for the boys. The coaches decided to enter two teams, the Reds and the Blues, to ensure that every player took a full part in the day. Placed in separate groups, the Blues overcame Broadstreet 41 - 5 and the hosts 25 - 7 in the group stages before beating Bromsgrove 19 - 7 in the first semi- final. Meanwhile, the Reds gained victories against Bromsgrove 25 – 5 and Moseley 39 – 0 in their group, before going on to beat Stratford 26 - 15 in the second semi-final.

This resulted in a Manchester Reds v Manchester Blues Final, with tension building on the sidelines as friends and colleagues were pitted against each other for the first time in club colours. The Reds came out on top in a tight game, winning 26 – 10. Many thanks to all at Stratford for putting on such a good tournament.

Final thanks go to the tour organisers, Ali, Jan, Rob, Rosa and Val for a job well done!