The first of two big festivals today gave half of the Eastbourne Under 9's squad the opportunity to see how far they have progressed. Eleven boys were in attendance at Lewes and all were to play a part in a fun-flled and exciting day.

Pool game one resulted in a 4 tries to 0 score against Uckfield RFC as the boys defended stoutly and attacked when needed. Game two was against new opponents, Upminster RFC of Essex, again the boys performed well to fly into a half time 3-0 lead. In the second half the foot was taken off the gas, but a comfortable 3-1 win was recorded. Group game three as expected proved a tough game, Hastings and Bexhill demonstrated the art of tackling low and defending as a team to limit Eastbourne to a half time 1-0 lead. In the second half, key players upped their game and a hard fought 3-1 victory was recorded.

This meant the final group game against our hosts Lewes was effectively a semi final as both teams had won all their games. A solid start resulted in a 1-0 lead, however Lewes hit back with a superbly worked try of their own to level the scores. The pace merchants then went into overdrive to take the lead and a solid defensive line wasn't breached for the rest of the half. In the second half, Eastbourne defended well (though we still need to remember to go low in the heat of battle boys) and two more tries followed for a comfortable 4-1 win. Worthing awaited in the final having seen off Haywards Heath in their "semi".

The first battle in the final vs West Sussex festival winners Worthing was won as Eastbourne didn't have to change their kit!!! The final itself produced rugby of a very high standard. Worthing's trademark expansive rugby caused the Eastbourne defence to have to work hard across the line. The first score went the way of Eastbourne, but Worthing equalised, then Eastbourne scored again and Worthing equalised again. 2-2 at half time then and all to play for. Twice more Eastbourne took the lead only for Worthing to twice more find space wide to equal it up at 4-4, until in the last knockings of the game some lovely support play resulted in the game (and tournament) winning try for Matt D'Arcy.

A fine advert from both teams for minis rugby.All 11 Eastbourne players got on the pitch in the final and Freddie duly collected the trophy and many tears of emotion were shed!

Now all the Eastbourne Under 9's squad has to do is repeat the feat at The Uckfield Festival!

Squad on the day: Freddie Earnshaw, Will Ewer, Matt D'Arcy, George Molloson, Seb Wardle, Alex Eldridge, Ben Young, George Loader, Henry Spalding,Josh White and Justin Funnell.

Some piccies to follow when I work out how to add them!!!!!