U9s march to County 7s Cup final

A gutsy effort by the U9s in the County 7s saw them march undefeated to a cup final first.
The 10-strong squad tackled to a standstill in their final clash with Durham City Blues, whose defensive line repelled attack after attack.
Trailing 5-0 at half-time, the Ashbrooke lads, led by Adam Williams and Adam Shiels, drove at the Durham line, but were held up. Nailing a final brace of breakaways, the Blues ran out 15-0 winners, but Sunderland held their heads high, runners-up in their first outing in the competition.
Initially drawn in a challenging group, the U9s faced their toughest opponents in their first game, Hartlepool.
End-to-end, Sunderland probed and hit, with Aidan Wilkinson, Williams and Jack Cahill, each touching down. However, Hartlepool, hit back each time, with the game finally tied at 15-15.
Next up, were Redcar, who proved a tough nut. Lewis Irwin crossed for a lone score, followed by a hat-trick from Williams, and two from Wilkinson. Crossley led the tackle count, which saw Redcar conceded a number of turnovers. Final score, Sunderland 30 Redcar 10.
Aggressive defence, from both Stockton and Sunderland, capped an entertaining match, filled with big hits. Sam Watson zig-zagged for a try, with scores from Josh Jobling, Cahill, Wilkinson, Williams (2), sealing a 30-5 win.
In their final group game, Sunderland cut loose against Durham City Reds, running in 9-tries. Doughty tackling from Crossley, Tom Howe and Wilkinson, put Durham on the back foot, with Russell Chapman-Smith touching down, Watson (2), Wilkinson, Williams (3), Crossley and Jobling, all adding. Sunderland 45 Durham City Reds 0.
Topping the group on tries scored, Sunderland faced Durham City Whites in the semis, powering their way to a 15-0 win, courtesy of scores from Watson, Williams and Crossley.
It was then the final, alas so near...
Well done to all. Thanks to parents for your vociferous support. Lads for all your hard work.