The sun has been shining on Manchester's U12 throughout the season. Today the lads played some scintillating rugby. They tackled tenaciously, were uncompromising and organised admirably - fantastic.
They created opportunities aplenty, fashioned through determination, blistering pace, an eye for space, fine handling and above all teamwork - backing one another throughout - in every game, rock-solid defence and impressive attack.
Phase 1 - Manchester were drawn against Littleborough and Waterloo.
First up Littleborough. A little anxiety at the start, but nerves settled after 2 first half tries. 4 more followed in the second half. Full time 6-0.
Waterloo had to deal with some very strong running. In the 1st half Manchester scored 4 - Waterloo replies with a powerful kick return of their own H-T 4-1. A further 2 were added in the second half F-T 6-1
Phase 2
Manchester progressed to face Sefton in the quarter finals. Marvellous running, power and speed saw the Reds score 2 in the 1st half and 3 more in the 2nd. F-T 5-0.
The semi-final - Manchester faced a very competitive Leigh side. The only try of the first half was probably Manchester's best of the tournament. Super interplay, pace and power down the left and the reds broke the deadlock. Solid defence coupled with patient, determined progress and a second try close to the end relieved the tension. Both teams played well & knew they had been up against strong opposition F-T 2-0.
The ultimate match of the 2016/17 season - the final - Liverpool Collegiate stood between Manchester and a clean sweep. They provided a stern test during the first 7 minutes H-T 0-0.
In the second half Manchester played to their strengths, moved the ball more effectively and found their runners. F-T 4-0
Summary P5 W5 F23 A1 played 70+ minutes