Machen U14 RFC

A bruising encounter at Machen — physically tough from the first whistle, and a game that summed up everything about this squad: character, commitment, and no shortage of quality. Ultimately, a second-half comeback from the hosts edged them over the line, but Whitchurch made them work every inch of the way.

The opening exchanges were hard-fought. Machen showed why they're a stern home side, making the first ten minutes difficult for the visitors. But Whitchurch held firm and took their chance when it came — Ben breaking clear for the opening try, though the conversion was missed. 5–0.

More resilience was required through the next quarter as Machen pressed. Whitchurch weathered the storm and hit back with a classic score: sustained pressure, a kick through for Luca to finish, and Jay adding the conversion to make it 12–0. Josh then added a third try — conversion missed — to send the Warriors into the break with a commanding 17–0 lead. Machen pulled two tries back before half time to make it 17–12 at the interval, setting up a tense second forty.

The second half opened with Elliott S crossing for Whitchurch's fourth try to restore the margin to 22–12 — but Machen were relentless. Three converted tries in quick succession flipped the scoreboard: 22–19, then 22–26, then 22–33, as Machen's power game took hold.

With eight minutes left on the clock and 11 points to claw back, Cam drove over for a gutsy try to make it 27–33 — but it proved to be the last score of the game. Despite Whitchurch pushing hard to the final whistle, Machen held on.

A disappointing outcome, but a performance packed with heart. Leading at half time, five tries scored, and fighting back when it mattered — this group never stopped. The season continues. 🏉