MINEHEAD Barbarians Under 14s kicked off the new rugby season with a 29-17 home win over their North Petherton counterparts.

There was a fantastic atmosphere around the club, with a great crowd staying behind to watch the Under14s take to the field, proudly led by George Tucker.

It was brilliant to see so many players, parents, supporters and members of the club getting behind the team — the support from the touchline really added to the occasion.

Minehead started the first half with plenty of energy and determination, and it wasn’t long before they got themselves on the scoreboard.

Harry Parfitt opened the scoring with an excellent try after picking the ball up around the 22-metre line and showing great determination to finish the move. Oliver Bishop then produced a fantastic break, making good ground and scoring a well-worked try. Harry Parfitt added the conversion.

North Petherton responded strongly and managed to get themselves on the scoreboard, including a converted try. Minehead showed some excellent defensive play, working hard for each other and putting in some big tackles to stop North Petherton’s attacks.

Sam Bradshaw was particularly impressive in defence, putting in some really strong tackles throughout the game and making his presence felt every time North Petherton came forward.

Justin Mapuranga also had a fantastic game, making some powerful carries throughout the match, gaining valuable metres and helping Minehead build momentum.

George Tucker and Harry Parfitt were both playing really well together, building an excellent partnership between scrum-half and fly-half. They communicated well, worked hard for each other and were a constant threat in attack.

North Petherton continued to compete strongly, but Minehead’s defence stood firm on several occasions, including a crucial try-saving effort to keep the pressure on the visitors. At half-time, the scores were 12–12, setting up an exciting second half.

After the break Minehead raised their intensity once again. Harry Parfitt added another try following a great team effort, with the whole side showing excellent fight and determination.

Lewis Zeitzen produced some excellent runs throughout the game, while Harley Colwill also made some great runs, showing good pace and determination.

Owen Sellick made several crucial tackles at number 15, providing important defensive cover throughout the game. George Tucker and Harry Parfitt continued to work brilliantly together, showing great understanding and communication and helping to drive Minehead forward.

The defensive effort remained strong throughout the second half, with the whole team continuing to work hard and make tackles when they were needed.

North Petherton continued to compete right until the final whistle, but Minehead remained composed and continued to work hard for each other right until the end to end up winners 29-17.

This was a fantastic opening result for the Minehead Under 14s and, more importantly, a great team performance.

A special mention must go to captain George Tucker for leading the team out and for his strong performance at scrum-half, and to Harry Parfitt for his excellent performance at fly-half. Their partnership was one of the real highlights of the match. Well done to all the MBRFC U14s!

The Under 14s management would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who stayed behind to watch and support the team. The atmosphere around the pitch was brilliant.