JERSEY RFC Academy U13s demonstrated their ability to compete with the very best in the UK last weekend.

Although beaten by leading clubs Wasps and Richmond, the Jersey lads impressed in both games – and, indeed, dominated for long stretches.

The opening period of the clash with the mighty Wasps was, however a shock to the Jersey lads.

Wasps’ well-organised pack, featuring a powerful No 8, notched up five tries and a conversion in the first half.

By the end of the half, however, the Jersey lads started to compete more effectively and try-saving tackles from Aaron Young set the scene for an inspired recovery.

It was a dramatic second half with player of the match Scott van der Vliet leading the way with one of his most courageous games.

His aggressive running from the base of the scrum soon lifted the entire team and ultimately led to Jersey winning the second half 17-7, with two tries and a conversion from van der Vliet and a typically aggressive run from blindside flanker Richard Sinel, ending with a try in the corner.

Not enough to retrieve the end result, 34-17, it was still ample proof that, with proper preparation, Jersey could have won had they competed right from the outset.

The following day, having been enthused by England’s win against Samoa, a good night’s sleep and better preparation, the squad faced Richmond, their conquerors at U12 level a year earlier.

Firing on all cylinders from the kick-off, the team started as they had finished against Wasps – despite Richmond being the first to score.

Jersey quickly hit back with tries from Young and the fast-improving Dale Le Main on the right wing.

Van der Vliet added two conversions and a penalty to bring the half time score to 17-7 in Jersey’s favour.

Aiden Maguire, out of position at scrum-half, was doing a creditable job.

However, having rocked Richmond with their aggressive start, the Jersey boys’ enthusiasm led to an increasing penalty count for rucking infringements.

Richmond, to their great credit, played inspired rugby in the second half and went on to score a further two converted tries as well as a penalty to snatch a 26-17 victory.

The Jersey boys, tired from the trip in general, could not counter Richmond’s recovery, the standard of which was, in any event, of the highest order.

Le Main was elected player of the match.

Jersey returned reassured, once again, that they can compete at the highest level against UK opposition – the challenge for their coaches is to continue to provide them with more and more match practice.

Aaron Young got the ‘Man of the Weekend’ award and Tim Kearns the ‘Best Tackles’ title while Elliot Muddyman earned the ‘Most Improved’ award.

Newcomers Muddyman, Michael Medway and Jordan Deffains brought additional depth and power to the squad during the course of both games.

Moore Management sponsors the Jersey Rugby Academy, while Pegasus Financial Services gave financial support for the tour.

Avis supplied waterproof jackets on this occasion.

Jersey U13: Adam Heyes, Paul Maguire, Xavier Tait, Michael Medway, Guy Richardson, Richard Sinel, Tim Kearns, Scott van der Vliet, Campbell Dickson, Will Falle (capt), Aiden McGuire, Michael MacCabe, Aaron Young, Ethan Clarke, Toby Goar, Jacob Muddimer, Jack Averty, Elliot Muddyman, Dale Le Main, Jordan Deffains, Liam O’Connell and James Harzo.

Coaches: Rory Steel, Trevor Falle, Chris Lagadu.

Manager: Denis van der Vliet.