November rugby saw a return to the more traditional Saturday mornings meaning an early start for the U13 team, Mr Shaw and the parents who have very kindly supported, albeit whilst wrapped up warm.

The first game of the month was against a well-organised Dame Allan’s team and as we entered the game undefeated this season we knew that we would be tested from the start.

With some key forwards missing, the opening exchanges were difficult to get a strong grip of the game but the ball soon started to flow and saw the Cheviot take a 17-0 lead with only 20 minutes left to play.

Dame Allan’s were clearly shaken and not about to throw in the towel, and through their strong and well drilled forward pack started to move their team around the pitch scoring 2 tries to cut the deficit to 17-10 with 5 minutes to play.

The next 5 minutes was an incredible battle and the pressure was on the Cheviot but through some unbelievable defence in the face of adversity we held on for a well-deserved win 17-10.

The next Saturday morning game was against Longridge Towers in Berwick. Playing against another independent school we knew that we had to be ready from the start.

Playing on a football pitch that was knee deep in thick mud it was never going to be an open running game however the players soon realised this and the forwards got stuck in. The rucking and mauling was exceptional and the backs had beautiful shape all afternoon so when the ball did come wide the ball was passed easily and points were scored. The Cheviot ran out eventual winners 49-7 despite Longridge utilising two of the Cheviot substitutes meaning at one point it was 17 players v 15.

All in all it was another highly successful month and it was made all the more special as the players got to wear their brand new kit, kindly sponsored and donated by Mr Weatherburn, a parent of an U13 player at Newminster.

Mr Shaw would like to congratulate all the players for their hard work and dedication to Saturday morning school rugby but also he would like to thank the parents who are always on the side lines and give 100% to ensure their child is able to participate.

Finally a big thank you to Simon Clemmitt and James Richfield for travelling on the school bus and helping out on the trips – I know it brought back a lot of fond memories from when they used to play Saturday school rugby.