The second edition of the 5 Nations arranged by London French RFC was as competitive as it was last year.

Scottish started slowly against Bank of England and Bank of England were victors. Scottish then met London French who with London Welsh are the strongest teams that the U9s have played against this year. Scottish lost the match against French 3 to 1.

It was a tough match with some very good passages of play from Scottish especially in the second half. London French had a very well organized attack & defence and Scottish U9s (and the coaches) could see the benefit that brings in matches. London French had additional training during the week for the 5 Nations and it was obvious to all that French were really up for it against Scottish. 

Scottish then played London Welsh. Unfortunately Scottish let in a couple of soft tries from early restarts. However Scottish fought back well and gave Welsh a very good run for their money although Welsh held onto their lead.

Finally Scottish played London Irish. Scottish beat Irish running in some well worked tries with the ball finally being passed (well on a couple of occasions..) down the line to stretch the Irish defence. The U9s didn't do this in the first 3 matches with far too much running back into the midfield defence losing ground. In the earlier matches, Scottish failed to convert a number of try scoring opportunities by not getting the ball out to the wing in space. 

The attack being deeper to run onto the ball and passing the ball much more down the line needs to be the first priority for U9s this Sunday at the Pencoed Festival in Wales. This is the U9s last opportunity to play “champagne rugby” this season!

All up it was a great occasion played in true 5 Nations spirit on a glorious day in Barnes. The U9s had lots of fun and played well against tough opposition. It is just a pity that the season finishes this Sunday.