Rugby Match Report: Uplands Academy v Beacon Academy

The two MARK Education Trust schools were back on the pitch this week for another highly anticipated fixture, this time featuring their talented Year 8 and 9 mixed squads. Despite having had only one training session as a team leading up to the match, Uplands came out dominating the first five minutes of the game, showing impressive intensity and determination from the very start.

Uplands worked seamlessly together, quickly moving the ball through the hands and creating gaps in the defense. The forwards made powerful runs, gaining significant ground, while the backs displayed excellent communication moving the ball efficiently across the field. This early pressure resulted in a series of well-executed phases, with Uplands setting the tone for the rest of the match.

Beacon Academy quickly regained their composure and responded with great resilience. After Uplands’ early dominance, Beacon tightened up their defense, making crucial tackles and disrupting Uplands’ attacking flow. Their forwards became more aggressive at the breakdown, slowing down the ball and denying Uplands the quick possession they had enjoyed. Beacon's backline also started to find their rhythm, organising well and looking for opportunities to counter-attack.

The match saw some truly big tackles from both teams, showcasing the intensity and physicality that rugby is known for. Our back-row forwards were particularly effective, throwing themselves into the collision with fearless determination, halting any momentum Beacon tried to build. However, Beacon were not to be outdone. As the game progressed, they delivered their own massive hits, forcing Uplands to think twice before charging forward. Their tackling technique was on display as they wrapped up ball carriers and drove them back, not allowing any easy yards. One standout performance came from Luke (Year 9), who was undoubtedly the man of the match. His fearless approach to the game was evident from the very first whistle. Luke threw himself into every challenge, making some truly excellent tackles that not only stopped Beacon attacks but also fired up his team mates.

The game ended 55-25 to Beacon Academy, but both teams showed incredible sportsmanship, determination, and a true sense of pride in representing their schools. Despite Uplands only having one training session together as a team and several players making their debut in rugby, they performed exceptionally well.

Mr. Stidder, Teacher of PE, reflected on the game saying, 'It's clear that with more time together as a team, they will continue to improve and develop. The match not only showcased some brilliant rugby but also highlighted the character of both teams who played the game with respect and camaraderie. Uplands may not have come away with the win, but their performance was a fantastic foundation to build on for the future.'

A big thank you to the parents, teachers, and students who came to support both teams. The support shown by the Uplands and Beacon Academy communities was truly appreciated, and it’s this kind of backing that helps fuel the passion and drive of the players.

WE ARE UPLANDS!