Ross Junior U8s were invited to a special tournament in Stow on the Wold, featuring some of Gloucestershire's best sides. They showed attacking flair in all four matches, but the opposition proved too strong to let the young Ross side pass the group stage.

Against Old Bristolians, just one try separated the sides. Tim Goodhead and Kieron Clements scored first half tries, but some missed tags left Ross 3-2 behind. Honours were even in the second half, with tries from Tegan Harding, Ivor Harrington and Jamie Harris. Final score 6-5.

Next up was a well organised St Brendans team, who, despite brilliant tagging by Evie Clarke along with Ethan Rees, Catrin Harding and Heidi Davies, scored three without reply by half time.

Evie and William Chinn scored in the second half, but the opposition ran out 6-2 winners. Felix Newey shone as tagging supremo in the next game, against Minchinhampton. Ivor and Catrin got tries, before Poppy Godwin charged through a crowd of players to score, making it 3-6.

Finally, Dursley proved too strong against a determined but tiring Ross. Ivor scored two tries, one of them a real individual effort from opposite corners of the pitch, and Catrin scored, too. The final score 8-3 showed the difference in defensive prowess between the two sides.

All the boys, girls and their parents were really pleased to have taken part, and that in only its second season, Ross-on-Wye can be proud of its junior section. Thanks to Clare Godwin and Ali Rees, and to the host at Stow RFC.