New venue

U13s Report:
The U13s travelled to Amber Valley for their first fixture against the yellow and blacks, who were fielding a combined U13 / U14 team. Ilkeston started strongly right from the first whistle, playing with good intensity. Our tackling was vastly improved over recent weeks, disrupting Amber Valley's momentum and giving us the lion's share of the possession. At the break Ilkeston led 40-5, after a combination of some outstanding solo tries and great teamwork.

Our intensity dropped momentarily at the start of the second half, allowing Amber Valley to score two quick tries. This was a wake-up call for the lads, who then regained their focus to finish strongly, winning the fixture 60-20.

We have come to expect try scoring performances from the likes of Louis Edwards, Rowynn Turner and Max Rhodes, and this week was no exception. On top of this, the three new lads fitted in brilliantly, with Jack Naylor and Daniel Poxon both producing great runs and strong tackles. Isaac Bailey was a revelation, burning down the wing to run in four outstanding tries. Most importantly though it was a great performance from the whole team, with every player contributing. Smiles all round, from players and parents alike.