Sun 1 Mar 2026, 11:00
This was it. The day of the Dorset & Wiltshire RFU Under 16s Division 2 semi-final day... and the Marlborough Rugby Under 16s were up against an in-form Corsham RFC U16s squad for a place on the podium... no pressure!
Corsham had beaten us 43-0 in our league fixture and had finished top of the league. This was always going to be a tough match for the Marlborough boys, who have showed great commitment and heart thoughout this year's league campaign.
Marlborough started slowly, made simple mistakes, and allowed Corsham to get on the scoreboard first in the early minutes. It was an uphill battle from there. Marlborough's second half performance was much improved, and we got a score ourselves, as we started to make an impact, winning the majority of rucks.
However, losing players to injury and having no subs on the bench, meant that it was going to be a battle to the end.
This result means we exit the competion, but the coaching staff and all of the Club Committee are clear that these boys should hold their heads high. This season's squad has been found from a small group of players and it has been a very significant achievement just getting to this semi-final and to get on the scoreboard against a powerful unit like Corsham
Final score: Corsham RFC U16s 58-7 Marlborough Rugby U16s
Three photos, below, showing coach (and senior squad player!), Adam Whatley, doing his best to keep the boys' chins up. Great effort everyone!
