Cardiff Rugby’s under-16 sides enjoyed comfortable victories in the first round of the Regional Age Grade Championship on Sunday, securing two victories over their RGC counterparts at Eirias Park.
Caden Thomas grabbed four of Cardiff Rugby North’s 10 tries in a resounding 60-7 win. The wing was on hand to finish off a couple of sweeping team moves in the first half, with the backs showcasing some fluent passing. Thomas found himself in the right place to benefit from some fast footwork by both Kodie Stone and Tom Bowen that allowed him the space to run in his third and fourth of the afternoon.
Full-back Stone was a constant threat to RGC and was awarded with a try of his own after some consistent phases from the forwards. Outside centre Bowen also grabbed two for himself, including a stunning solo effort from inside his own 22 during the second half. Not to be left out, winger Morgan Stevens displayed impressive finishing when scoring in each period.
Fly-half Tom Hughes consolidated a mature performance with three conversions before being replaced by Samuel Talbot. Talbot took his chance, adding a further try for the Blue and Blacks, as well as two conversions of his own, to top off a fine all-round display by Cardiff Rugby North. A mention to RGC who, despite the score, were resolute in their efforts until the final whistle.
The South followed with a convincing victory of their own in the second match of the afternoon at Colwyn Bay. A well-executed offload by lock Jaden Wilkins created space for James Hendy to crash over in the corner for the opener.
Captain Luke Jones added a second Cardiff try after some patient build-up play. Jones’ side played on the front foot and ensured they maintained the pressure on RGC. Owain Francis dotted down for Cardiff’s third try after good work from scum-half Reuben Seth Elias.
The final stages brought about another two tries for wing Hendy. Dewi Thomas stepped well to create a two versus one scenario that saw Hendy go over for his second, while a huge carry by centre Osian Darwin Lewis, followed by a fine offload, allowed the wing to complete his hat-trick.
Both sides will be looking to maintain these standards as the Regional Age Grade Championship campaign continues on Wednesday, with Cardiff North hosting Scarlets East at Merthyr while Cardiff South travel to take on Dragons Black.