Sunderland Unlucky in County Cup

On a day that had wind, rain, sun and hail stones, Sunderland U12s battled hard in the County Cup. With games against Middlesborough, Ryton and Blaydon, people could be forgiven for thinking we were doomed from the start.
The first game against Middlesborough got off to a good start with 2 tries from James Graham. Middlesborough came back into the game pulling back one try. Sunderlands defence dug in an looked to keep Boro out for the rest of the game. Unfortunately due to an oversight by the match official this was not to be. Boro recieved and attacking scrum 5 meters out, the number 8 picked up and powered over the line to equalise. Boro had the restart and after a quick tap and go scored again, and again. Final score Middlesborough 20 - Sunderland 10.

Next up was a well drilled Ryton team. Sunderland held their own and kept the score down. With further tries from James Graham keeping Sunderland in the game until the very end. Final score Ryton 25 - Sunderland 10.

The final game brought us up against Blaydon. Having been beaten by only one try in a previous game and drawing in the 7s, Sunderland felt this was their time to shine and went into the game ready to fight for a win. With tries from James Graham and Cam Holder, Sunderland finally managed to break their record against Blaydon and come away with a comfortable win. Final score Sunderland 20 - Blaydon 10.

Overall a very good and positive day of rugby for all to be proud of! The try tally added up to Cam Holder- 1 try and James Graham- 7 tries.

Also congratulations to Sunderland U12s player who represented ST.Aidens at the schools county cup, reaching the semi finals.