You could be forgiven for thinking that Bowdon U9’s have been playing full contact rugby for years, but this was their very first outing under contact rules at the Stockport Festival.

Under a scorching autumn sun, the U9’s started their campaign against a strong Wilmslow Side. And despite going behind early on, some fearsome tackling from Henri McG and direct running from Harry E helped Bowdon to a narrow 6-5 win.

The second pool game against Heaton Moor was just as tight but Bowdon stuck to their game plan. Rhys E put in tackle after tackle and was backed up by a Bowdon team who were starting to gel. A stunning individual run from James B set up another try, and by the final whistle Bowdon were worthy 7-3 winners.

In the final pool against Stockport, step up Thomas “Destroyer” C, who with the help of Finlay K stopped every attack in it’s tracks. But this wasn’t going to be a walkover, and again Bowdon had to come from behind, eventually winning their pool with a 5-4 win.

After a well-earned break the boys took to the pitch again, this time against Stockport A. By now the team was playing as one and the now usual big hits allowed Tom G and Charlie H to bag two fantastic tries a piece, contributing to a stunning 8-3 win.

So bring on the Final…… The boys (and coaches Dave, Ewan and John) were exhausted and were up against the strong Wilmslow A team. Once again Bowdon conceded an early try but again they were up to the task. Vital challenges from Toby G and Jack S kept Bowdon close, and as Wilmslow tired, the spaces opened up for our boys to pounce. The final whistle blew and Bowdon had won 4-2. First festival and first trophy of the season. The future’s bright for Bowdon U9’s

John Greening