WITH the rugby union World Cup around the corner, 11 Primary Schools met in a TAG Rugby tournament at Bolton Rugby Union FC recently in glorious sunshine.

More than 100 young girls and boys having a superb and fun afternoon of rugby and the games were close with plenty of potential stars of the future on show as everyone had a great time playing at least five games.

There were three groups producing eight 'finalists' and three teams to contest the 'Plate' competition.

SS Peter and Paul B were victorious in the Plate and as they had displayed great sportsmanship it was good to see them resplendent in their medals.

In the main tournament the level of rugby heated up with the outside temperature and what many had predicted as the final between Clevelands and St. Thomas’ was a real end to end affair with St. Thomas’ coming out on top.

But SS Osmund and Andrews then overcame St. Thomas’ in a thrilling semi to reach the final.

In the other side of the draw Gaskell had to rely on a Golden Try to progress but deservedly reached the final as the best side in their half of the competition.

The final was a superb game and very closely fought with SS Osmund and Andrews narrowly securing the victory but there were high hopes that Gaskell could bounce back just two days later in the Years 3 and 4 event.

This was a smaller competition with just six sides taking to the field but matches were no less exciting and the players no less skilful or determined.

In fact this was probably one of the best-ever school tournaments with everyone having a brilliant time and epitomising the Rugby Union ethos of Teamwork Respect Enjoyment Discipline and Sportsmanship

Chorley New Road and Lostock were both new to the game but got better and better as the day progressed. Chorley New Road won the plate competition while Lostock were just pipped in the semi by St. Stephens and All Martyrs.

The second semi final was a needle match with Gaskell A taking on Gaskell B.

No quarter was given or asked as both teams gave their all.

The A team came out on top but the whole school deserved credit for the way the game was played and the sportsmanship of the players.

In the final St. Steven played superbly and showed how much they had improved over the afternoon but couldn’t quite cope with Gaskell’s skill and speed and it was Gaskell who ended the day victorious making up for Tuesday’s disappointment.