Stourport High School, Warriors’ AASE League team, completed their 15-a-side season with a 21-12 defeat against their Bristol Bears counterparts, Filton College, at Sixways.
Stourport were left to rue missed scoring opportunities in a tight contest but coach Ryan Watkins was again encouraged by the performance of his young team.
“Although it was disappointing to finish on the loss it’s clear to see the lads have made huge progress,” Watkins said.
Stourport started well and dominated in the early physical exchanges but a loose pass was snaffled by a Filton wing who raced away for the opening try.
Filton made it 14-0 inside 15 minutes when they crossed again from a scrum but Stourport regrouped and controlled the rest of the first half with big carries from Cheick Kone, Fergus Downes and Sam Hayler.
After a series of near misses and being held up just short of the line, Stouport made their pressure count when Louis Weston powered over with Jai Crippin covering.
The second half started in similar fashion with Stourport dominating possession and the large share of territory. However, a lucky bounce of the ball fell for the Filton chasing backs and they went over for a third converted try.
With plenty of time left on the clock Stourport came charging at Filton again with Ben Ralph punching holes in their defence. Eventually space was found, the ball was passed down the line and Reece Davis showed pace and power to beat his opposite man and step the covering full-back.
Although Stourport now turn their attention to sevens rugby which includes a tournament at Sixways on March 18 and a trip to the prestigious Rosslyn Park Schools Sevens.