With both a cup and league double, North Ribblesdale Colts, finished the 2021/22 season on a high. Over a long season, with many long distance fixtures across the length and breadth of the County, the Colts eventually were crowned U18 Division 1 champions. Scoring an average of 34 points per game and conceding only 10 per game.
With the League title already in the bag the colts travelled over to Goole to take on a determined and well drilled Hull Ionians team who were out to avenge the league loss to Ribb a few weeks earlier. A hard-fought game ensued, played in the best spirit of rugby but with no backward step taken by either team. The result could have gone either way but eventually Ribb came away deserved winners with a final score 21-14. An afternoon and evening of celebrations followed. Great memories made for all involved.
For anyone who has been lucky enough to watch any of the games this season would have witnessed a feast of free-flowing rugby, with tries a plenty, scored by players throughout the team, although special mention must go to Elliot Marklew, (Coaches and Players player of the season), who scored an amazing 18 tries. The driving maul from a 5 yard lineout proving too much for most sides!
Stats for the league and cup games - Played – 14, Won – 11, Drew – 1, Lost 2 (79% Win rate).
The lads rounded off their season with a mini tour to Stockport (via Sale Sharks) for a final blow out. Coming away with a win with a classy display of open rugby. A fantastic end to a fantastic season, for many of them, their last of junior rugby. Hopefully they will continue playing rugby for years to come, whether that’s at Ribb or further afield.
Special thanks must go to the Players, Coaches, Supporters and Parents for what has been an historic year for Colts rugby at Ribb.
